I've heard that some topics are considered cliché or overdone in college essays. Which topics should I avoid to ensure my essay stands out and doesn't bore the admissions officers? Thanks for any advice!
It's great that you're thinking about how to make your college essay stand out! There are indeed some topics that tend to be overused and may not help you distinguish yourself. Here are a few topics to consider avoiding:
1. Sports victories or losses: While sports can teach valuable life lessons, these stories often become cliché.
2. Highly polarizing issues: Touching on divisive topics like politics or religion may alienate some readers.
3. Death, divorce, or illness: While these experiences can be formative, they are often written about in a way that doesn't shed new light on the applicant.
4. Travel stories: Many students write about their eye-opening trips, but these essays often lack depth or specificity.
5. Volunteering experiences: Unless there's a unique angle, writing about community service can be cliché.
Just because these are typically cliché topics doesn't mean you can never write about them. Students with a compelling story that focuses around them and their experiences can turn overused topics into stellar essays.
Whatever you do, try to focus on an experience, challenge, or perspective that genuinely reflects who you are and is specific to you. Good luck with your essay, and I hope you find a topic that truly showcases your individuality!
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