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How to choose a topic for my college essay?

So, I have to start working on my college essays and I'm not sure what to write about. I came across this idea of writing about 'the letter S' but is it too random and risky? What kind of topics do you think will make my essay stand out and help me get into my dream schools?

a year ago

Choosing a topic for your college essay can be a challenging process, but it's important to remember that the essay is your chance to showcase your unique voice and personality to the admissions officers. An unconventional topic like 'the letter S' could be risky, but if executed well, it might stand out in a positive way. Here are some tips to help you choose a topic that will make your essay shine:

1. Reflect on your interests and experiences: Think about the experiences that have shaped who you are, your accomplishments, or any events that stand out in your mind. Consider your passions and how they have influenced your growth.

2. Find the unique angle: Admissions officers read thousands of essays, so selecting a topic that sets you apart from the crowd is essential. Avoid cliché topics like sports victories, moving to a new school, or standard coming-of-age stories. If you choose a common topic, approach it from a unique angle or with a different twist that reveals something new about you.

3. Show, don't tell: Choose a topic that lets you show the admissions officers who you are, rather than just telling them. For example, instead of saying you're passionate about environmental issues, describe a specific project, initiative, or experience that demonstrates that passion.

4. Be authentic and true to yourself: Write about something that truly matters to you, reflects your values, and showcases your character. Don't pick a topic just because you think it will impress the admissions officers; your sincerity and passion will shine through if you write about something you genuinely care about.

5. Keep it focused: Your essay should have a clear theme and focus. If you decide to write about 'the letter S,' make sure there is a strong narrative or point to be made that reveals something significant about your personality, values, or aspirations.

6. Seek feedback: Discuss your topic ideas with trusted friends, family members, or teachers. They might provide valuable insights, help you refine your ideas, or even offer alternative suggestions based on their knowledge of your experiences and personality.

Remember, a strong essay topic should ultimately reveal who you are and what makes you distinctive. If you can execute the 'letter S' idea in a way that meaningfully conveys your personality and passions, it might make an intriguing and memorable essay. But always be open to alternative topics that might be a better fit for showcasing your unique qualities.

To learn more about choosing the best essay topic, read this blog post: https://blog.collegevine.com/good-college-essay-topics

a year ago

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