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What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
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UCLA
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Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

How do I pick a compelling college essay topic?

Hey guys, I've been brainstorming for a while, and I'm struggling to decide what to write about for my college essay. How do I choose a subject that is both interesting to admissions officers and true to who I am?

a year ago

Hey there! Choosing a college essay topic can definitely be a challenge, but it's great that you want to stay true to yourself – that's the key. Consider moments in your life that sparked change or growth, or times you faced a challenge and learned something valuable. Think about what you enjoy doing or what excites you, and how these aspects have shaped your identity or goals. Colleges are looking for authenticity and reflection, so select a topic that allows you to showcase your thoughtfulness and the experiences that make you unique. For example, if you're passionate about environmental issues and led a recycling initiative at school, sharing this story could highlight your leadership and commitment to making a difference. Just remember, the topic doesn't have to be flashy; it's the insight into your personality and values that truly counts.

a year ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.