What kind of college essay prompts should I expect?

Hey everyone, I'm starting to prepare my college applications and want to get a head start on the essays. Can you give me an idea of the types of prompts that I might encounter? Thanks in advance!

Hey there! It's great that you're getting a head start on your college essays. College application essay prompts can vary widely, but they usually fall into a few general categories. Here's a brief overview of these categories along with some examples:

1. Personal growth:

These prompts often ask you to reflect on a significant experience, challenge, or accomplishment, and explain how it has impacted you or contributed to your personal growth. They might ask about a failure or setback, and how you've learned from it.

Example: "Recount an incident or time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?"

2. Intellectual curiosity:

These prompts typically ask about a topic, idea, or academic subject that has sparked your curiosity or passion. They might also ask you to describe a time when you challenged a belief or idea, or a problem you'd like to solve.

Example: "Describe an academic subject that inspires you. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you want to become in the future because of that passion?”

3. Community and identity:

These prompts may ask about your background, identity, or community and how they have helped shape your perspective. They could also ask you to reflect on a time when you contributed to the well-being of others or helped build a more inclusive and diverse community.

Example: "Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story."

4. Creativity and imagination:

These prompts often allow you to showcase your creative side, whether through storytelling or discussing something unconventional. They might ask about a moment of creation, an original idea, or a favorite piece of art or literature.

Example: "If you could witness any event—past, present, or future—what would it be? Why? And how do you think witnessing this event would change your understanding of the world or yourself?"

5. Specific to the college or program:

Many colleges will have supplemental essays that ask about why you're interested in that particular school or program, or how you plan to contribute to the campus community.

Example: "Why do you want to attend [College Name]? How do you see yourself contributing to our campus community? "

Keep in mind that many colleges belong to the Common Application or Coalition Application, which have their own set of essay prompts. Be sure to check out the specific requirements for each college you're applying to. While writing your essays, remember to focus on your unique experiences and perspective, and aim to create a compelling narrative that showcases your personality and values. Good luck with your essays!