Brainstorming Common App Essay Topics Answered
I'm a junior currently, and I was wondering if anyone could offer ideas on what to write about for the common app essay prompt.(it can be any of the following 7) I'm working on brainstorming a list, so it's easier to write it during the spring/summer.
1) 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.
2) The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
3) Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
4) Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
5) Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
6) Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
7) Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.
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3 answers
I also started planning my essay early, I ended up choosing prompt seven because of how open it is. I wrote about doing community service, more specifically blood donation. So if you're really involved in some type of community service I would recommend writing about that. I know people who have written about things as small as the music they listen to and as big as wining national competitions. Pick something you're really passionate about and can give lots of details/imagery for the reader, it will help you stand out. If you still need help at the end of the summer, most senior English classes have college essay writing in the rubric. You won't regret starting early, it takes away a lot of senior year stress, you should also look into scholarships and financial aid early if you haven't started already.
I'm a senior and I remember being stuck on what to write for my personal statement. For me, starting around March/April of my junior year, I started writing sample essays and made a google jamboard for any idea that popped in my head. I think this is always a good way to start thinking about it. My school counselor and English teacher also talked about it at the end of the year and that's where I got my essay topic.
Your personal statement is the essay that you write to showcase your character. I recommend looking up a list of positive character traits and choosing about 3 that you want the colleges to know about you that they can't see much of in other parts of your application. Then brainstorm things that have affected you in some way and just start writing whatever comes to mind. Don't be afraid to write about the little things in life (mine is about just journaling every night). Don't write an essay for the prompt, write an essay and then choose the prompt that best fits the essay. I hope this helps!
I would read through each question, then consider, what excites you? Which question do you read and instantly have ideas in your mind? Share something that shows YOU through and through. I wrote an extensive post about college essays you will likely find helpful: collegevine.com/c/junior/49537/make-your-essay-stand-out
If you have more specific questions, lmk! Happy to help!
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Thank you, this is really helpful and makes me less nervous knowing that there are other people who have planned out their essay before their senior year. Also, I'll definitely start looking at scholarships. Thanks a lot for the advice.