• What Will You Learn About College Essays?
• What Are the 5 Steps to Write a College Essay?
• How Do You Choose the Best Essay Topic?
• What Should You Write About? 3 Proven Themes
• What Does a Successful College Essay Look Like?
• What Are the Most Common College Essay Questions?
• Where Can You Find More Essay Resources?
• How I Make My College Essays 100% Undetectable (And You Can Too)

What Will You Learn About College Essays?

Overview of Key Steps

• Understand the prompt: Before you even think about what to write in a college essay, make sure you totally get the question. Read it twice, maybe three times. If you’re confused, check out this section for a breakdown.
 
• Pick a topic that actually excites you. If you’re bored writing it, imagine how your reader will feel! For tips on finding the right topic, jump to topic selection.
 
• Brainstorm stories or moments that reveal who you are. Colleges want to know the real you, not just your GPA or test scores. Think about what makes you tick, and jot down a few ideas.
 
• Outline your essay: Don’t skip this! A simple outline keeps your thoughts organized and helps you focus on what to write in a college essay, so you don’t end up rambling about your pet goldfish (unless it’s a really epic goldfish).
 
• Write a killer introduction. Start with a hook that grabs attention, then set the stage for your story. If you’re stuck, peek at successful essay examples for inspiration.
 
• Develop your main points in the body. Use specific examples and show how you’ve grown or what you’ve learned. Don’t just tell—show!
 
• Wrap it up with a thoughtful conclusion. Reflect on your story and connect it back to your future goals or values. Make the reader remember you.
 
• Revise, edit, and get feedback. Trust me, your first draft is never your best. Polish your essay until it shines, and ask someone you trust to read it over.

How to Choose a Topic

• Start with self-reflection: Ask yourself what makes you, well, you. Think about your quirks, passions, or a moment that changed your perspective. This is the heart of what to write in a college essay.
 
• Pick a topic that shows a side of you not found anywhere else in your application. If your transcript screams “math whiz,” maybe your essay should whisper about your love for baking or comic books.
 
• Don’t just tell a story—share what you learned. Colleges want to see growth, not just a highlight reel. Even a “fail” can become gold if you show how it shaped you.
 
• Make sure your topic is specific and original. “I love soccer” is out. “How losing every game taught me to laugh at myself” is in. The more unique, the better.
 
• Stuck? Try the brainstorming tips in this section or ask friends what stories they remember about you. Sometimes, others see your best material before you do.
 
• Before you commit, check your idea against the essay checklist. Does it reflect your true self? Will it keep an admissions officer awake past midnight?

Essay Structure and Process

• Start with a clear structure: Every great college essay has three main parts: an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. This classic format keeps your story organized and easy to follow.
 
• In the introduction, grab attention with a hook, set the scene, and end with a thesis that hints at what to write in a college essay about yourself.
 
• Each body paragraph should focus on one key idea or moment. Use vivid details and personal insights to answer what to write in a college essay in a way that’s unique to you.
 
• Wrap it up with a conclusion that reflects on your growth and leaves the reader thinking. Don’t just repeat your intro—show how you’ve changed!
 
• Before you start writing, create a quick outline. Trust me, it’ll save you from rambling and help you stay focused on your main message.
 
• After drafting, revise for clarity and flow. Read your essay aloud—if you stumble, so will your reader. Editing is where the magic happens.
 
• For more on brainstorming and picking the right topic, check out this section. It’ll help you nail down exactly what to write in a college essay that stands out.

Examples and Inspiration

• Wondering what to write in a college essay? Let’s get inspired by real student stories—think essays about pillows, laptop stickers, or even a grocery list. Yes, you read that right. Ordinary topics can become extraordinary with the right spin.
 
• Check out essays like “My Pillows & Me” or “Happiness Spreadsheet”. These show how personal quirks and daily routines can reveal your personality and values. Your unique angle is what matters most.
 
• Some students write about overcoming challenges, like family struggles or health issues. Others focus on passions—geology, punk rock, or even kombucha clubs. The key? Make it personal and reflective.
 
• Don’t be afraid to get creative. One student used a bathroom ritual as a metaphor for self-reflection. Another compared life to a game show. If you’re stuck, see how to pick a topic for more ideas.
 
• Want more examples? Dive into essays from students accepted at Harvard, Stanford, and more. These samples prove there’s no single formula for what to write in a college essay—just make sure your story is yours.
 
• For even more inspiration, don’t miss the resources section. Sometimes, reading what others have done is the best way to spark your own creativity.

FAQs and Practical Tips

• What should I actually write in a college essay? Focus on a story or experience that reveals who you are. Admissions officers want to see your personality, values, and growth—not just a list of achievements.
 
• Don’t just repeat your resume. Instead, pick a moment that shaped you or challenged your perspective. For more on choosing a topic, check out this section.
 
• Can I write about a failure or mistake? Absolutely! Just make sure you highlight what you learned or how you grew. Colleges love self-awareness and resilience.
 
• Worried your topic is too common? Even “boring” topics can shine if you add your unique spin. See tips in proven themes for inspiration.
 
• How personal is too personal? Be honest, but don’t overshare. If you’re unsure, ask a trusted adult to read your draft. If it feels awkward for them, it might be TMI for admissions, too.
 
• Before you hit submit, review your essay for clarity and flow. Read it out loud—it’s the best way to catch weird phrasing. More revision tips are in the five steps guide.
 
• Final tip: Show, don’t just tell. Use vivid details and real examples to bring your story to life. If you’re stuck, browse successful essay examples for ideas.

What Are the 5 Steps to Write a College Essay?

1. Understand the Assignment

• Start by decoding the prompt: Don’t just skim—read the essay question slowly, twice if you need to. Figure out exactly what the college wants to know about you. This is the foundation for what to write in a college essay.
 
• Check the word count and formatting rules. If your essay is too long or too short, it might not even get read. Trust me, you don’t want your hard work tossed for being 50 words over.
 
• Ask yourself: What is this college really looking for? Do they want a story about overcoming adversity, or are they after your academic passions? Match your content to their expectations.
 
• If you’re unsure, look at common essay questions to get a sense of what colleges typically ask. This can spark ideas for what to write in a college essay that actually fits the prompt.
 
• Don’t forget to review any special instructions—like required topics or banned subjects. Some prompts want you to avoid certain clichés, so read the fine print.
 
• Still stuck? Jump to choosing the best essay topic for practical tips on narrowing your focus and brainstorming ideas that fit the assignment.

2. Choose a Compelling Topic

• Start with what matters to you. When you wonder what to write in a college essay, think about stories or moments that shaped who you are. If it’s boring to you, trust me, it’ll be boring to the reader too.
 
• Pick a topic that shows your personality and isn’t just a repeat of your résumé. Admission officers want to meet the real you, not your list of achievements. Need more ideas? Check out my tips in this section.
 
• Stay away from cliché topics like “winning the big game” unless you can add a unique twist or a lesson that only you could share. Your essay should be specific, not generic.
 
• Reflect on your growth. Did you overcome a challenge, change your perspective, or learn something surprising? These make for powerful essay material and answer the question of what to write in a college essay with authenticity.
 
• Before you commit, run your topic through a quick checklist: Is it original? Does it reveal something new about you? Will it keep the reader awake? If yes, you’re on the right track—see more in proven themes for inspiration.

3. Create an Outline

• Start with structure: Before you even think about what to write in a college essay, sketch a simple outline—introduction, body, and conclusion. This keeps your thoughts from running wild like squirrels in a park.
 
• Use your outline as a roadmap so you don’t get lost mid-essay. Jot down your main idea, supporting points, and a killer closing thought. This makes writing way less overwhelming.
 
• For the introduction, plan a hook that grabs attention. Think of a surprising fact, a quick story, or a bold statement. If you need ideas, check out how to choose the best essay topic for inspiration.
 
• Each body paragraph should focus on a single point that answers what to write in a college essay about yourself—like a challenge you overcame or a value you hold. Bullet these out so you stay focused.
 
• Don’t forget to outline your conclusion. Wrap things up by reflecting on your growth or how your story connects to your future goals. For more on strong endings, see what does a successful college essay look like.
 
• Pro tip: Outlining saves you time in the long run and helps you avoid the dreaded “what do I write next?” panic.

4. Draft and Revise

• Start with your first draft: Don’t stress about perfection. Just get your ideas on paper, focusing on what to write in a college essay—your story, your voice, your perspective.
 
• Use your outline as a guide, but let your creativity flow. If you find a better way to say something, go for it! The first draft is just the beginning, not the finish line.
 
• Show, don’t just tell: Instead of saying “I’m determined,” describe a moment that proves it. Vivid details make your essay memorable and help answer the question of what to write in a college essay.
 
• After finishing your draft, take a break. Seriously—walk your dog, eat a snack, or just stare at the ceiling. Fresh eyes catch mistakes and spark new ideas.
 
• Revise for clarity and flow: Read your essay aloud. Does it sound like you? Are your points clear? If not, tweak sentences or rearrange paragraphs until your story shines.
 
• Don’t forget to check for grammar and spelling. A polished essay shows you care about the details—something colleges love.
 
• For more tips on polishing your essay, check out what a successful college essay looks like.

5. Finalize and Proofread

• Give your essay a final polish. This is your last chance to make sure what you write in a college essay truly shines. Read it out loud—if you trip over a sentence, your reader probably will too.
 
• Double-check that you’ve answered the prompt and stayed focused on your main message. If you’re unsure, review the five steps to see if you’ve hit all the marks.
 
• Look for awkward phrasing, grammar mistakes, and typos. Even the best ideas can get lost if your writing isn’t clear. A clean essay shows you care about the details.
 
• Ask someone else to read it. A fresh pair of eyes can spot things you missed and help you see if your story makes sense. Don’t be shy—feedback is your friend!
 
• Make sure your essay reflects your authentic self. If you’re not sure, revisit the themes and check if your essay highlights what makes you unique.
 
• Confirm you followed all instructions. Check word count, format, and submission guidelines. Missing these can undo all your hard work.

How Do You Choose the Best Essay Topic?

What Makes a Good Topic?

• It’s all about you: The best answer to “what to write in a college essay” is to focus on your own story. Pick a topic that reveals your quirks, values, or a moment that shaped you. If it feels generic, it probably is.
 
• Originality wins: Admissions officers read thousands of essays. If your topic is something only you could write, you’re on the right track. Avoid clichés—no one needs another essay about “that one big game.”
 
• Show, don’t just tell: Choose a topic that lets you share specific stories. Instead of listing your achievements, let your personality shine through a memorable anecdote or a lesson learned. For more on this, check out these proven themes.
 
• Highlight growth: The best topics let you show how you’ve changed or what you’ve learned. If you’re writing about a challenge, make sure you focus on your growth, not just the struggle. Colleges want to see resilience, not a sob story.
 
• Keep it specific: Broad topics get boring fast. Zoom in on a single moment, idea, or experience. The more detailed you are, the more memorable your essay will be. Need help brainstorming? Try the tips in the five steps to write a college essay.
 
• Stay authentic: If your topic doesn’t feel true to you, scrap it. Your essay should sound like you—not like a thesaurus or your older cousin. Authenticity is your secret weapon when deciding what to write in a college essay.

Brainstorming Questions

• Start with yourself: Ask, “What do I want colleges to know about me that isn’t obvious from my grades or activities?” This is the heart of what to write in a college essay.
 
• Think about your quirks, passions, or even your weirdest hobbies. Sometimes, the most unexpected stories make the best topics. If you’re stuck, check out these proven themes for inspiration.
 
• Reflect on challenges: What’s a tough moment you faced, and how did you handle it? Colleges love to see growth, not just a list of achievements.
 
• Ask yourself, “What are three words my friends would use to describe me?” and “What am I most proud of?” These questions dig up stories that reveal your character.
 
• Connect to your values: What beliefs or values guide your choices? If you’ve changed your mind about something important, that’s a story worth telling.
 
• Don’t be afraid to ask family or friends for ideas—they often remember your best stories when you don’t. For more on this, see the five steps to write a college essay.
 
• Imagine your future: Where do you see yourself in five years? How do your goals connect to your past experiences?

Checklist for Topic Selection

• Is it about you? Your college essay should center on your unique experiences, not your grandma’s. If it doesn’t reveal who you are, it’s time to brainstorm again. Need ideas? Try the questions in this section.
 
• Pick a topic that isn’t already obvious from your application. If you’re the chess club president, don’t just write about chess. Show a side of yourself that admissions officers won’t see anywhere else.
 
• Originality wins hearts. If your topic feels like something everyone else would write, it probably is. Avoid clichés—unless you can put a totally unexpected twist on them. For tips, check out these proven themes.
 
• Ask yourself, “Does this topic let me show growth or self-reflection?” You want to demonstrate how you’ve changed, not just what happened. Think about the lessons you learned and how you’ve matured.
 
• Make sure your topic allows for a compelling story. If you can’t tell it with vivid details and honest emotion, keep searching. Remember, admissions officers read thousands of essays—make yours memorable!
 
• Finally, get feedback. Share your idea with someone who knows you well. If they say, “That’s so you!”—you’re on the right track for what to write in a college essay.

Making Common Topics Unique

• Let’s face it: Most students wonder what to write in a college essay and end up picking topics like sports wins or family struggles. But you can stand out by sharing your own quirky twist or unexpected lesson from a familiar story.
 
• Don’t just retell a generic event. Zoom in on the details—describe the odd smell in the locker room, the offbeat advice from your grandma, or the exact moment you realized you’d changed.
 
• Admissions officers have read a thousand “overcoming adversity” essays. What makes yours different? Maybe it’s your sense of humor, your unique background, or a surprising connection you draw between two unrelated things.
 
• Use your authentic voice. If you’re funny, be funny. If you’re reflective, dig deep. See what works in successful essays for inspiration.
 
• Show growth. Don’t just describe what happened—explain how it changed you. Did you gain confidence, empathy, or a new perspective? That’s what colleges want to see.
 
• Ask friends or family what stands out about you. Sometimes, the best angle for what to write in a college essay is something you never noticed about yourself. Check out more brainstorming tips if you’re stuck.

What Should You Write About? 3 Proven Themes

Academic and Intellectual Exploration

• Colleges love curiosity. If you’re wondering what to write in a college essay, start with your academic passions. Did you ever lose yourself in a research project, a book, or a science experiment? Share that spark!
 
• Show how you’ve gone beyond the classroom. Maybe you joined a summer program, started a club, or just asked “why?” one too many times in class. Admissions officers want to see your hunger to learn.
 
• Don’t just list your achievements—tell a story. For example, instead of saying “I love biology,” describe the moment you realized you wanted to solve real-world problems, like the student who did molecular biology research at Stanford.
 
• Highlight your growth. Did you ever struggle with a subject, only to discover a new way of thinking? That’s gold. If you want more tips on how to choose the best topic, check out this section.
 
• Connect your intellectual journey to your future goals. How will your curiosity shape your college experience? Admissions officers want to know how you’ll contribute to their academic community.
 
• If you’re stuck, try reflecting on your proudest academic moment or a time you collaborated to solve a tough problem. For more brainstorming help, visit this guide.

Personal Growth and Overcoming Challenges

• Admissions officers love a good comeback story. If you’re wondering what to write in a college essay, sharing a moment when you faced a real challenge—and grew from it—can be powerful.
 
• Think about a time you struggled, whether it was a family issue, academic setback, or even a personal weakness. Don’t just describe the problem—show how you changed.
 
• For example, maybe you failed a test, but learned new study habits and bounced back. Or perhaps you navigated a tough family situation and discovered your own resilience. Choosing the right story is key here.
 
• Be honest, but not too dramatic. Colleges aren’t looking for a soap opera—they want to see your ability to reflect, adapt, and move forward.
 
• Always focus on what you learned. Did you develop empathy, leadership, or a new perspective? Highlight the growth, not just the struggle.
 
• If you’re stuck, check out the brainstorming prompts in this section or see how others have tackled tough topics in successful essay examples.
 
• Remember, your essay isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing who you are, how you handle adversity, and why you’ll thrive in college.

Community, Identity, and Purpose

• Colleges want to know: Who are you, where do you come from, and what drives you? When you’re thinking about what to write in a college essay, start with your roots and the communities that have shaped you.
 
• Share a story about your culture, family, or a group that’s made you who you are. Maybe you started a club, like the student who built cross-cultural dialogue at her school. These details make your essay stand out.
 
• Identity isn’t just labels. It’s how you see yourself and how you want to grow. Reflect on moments when you discovered something new about yourself, or when your beliefs were challenged. This shows real self-awareness.
 
• Purpose is your “why.” What motivates you to get out of bed? Maybe you want to help others, or you’re passionate about science, art, or activism. Connect your goals to how you’ll contribute to campus life—admissions officers love that.
 
• If you’re stuck, check out the topic selection tips for more inspiration. Remember, your essay should reveal something new that’s not in your grades or test scores.
 
• Pro tip: Don’t just list achievements—tell a story that shows how your community, identity, or purpose has shaped your journey. That’s the secret sauce for what to write in a college essay.

What Does a Successful College Essay Look Like?

Personal Statement Examples

• Wondering what to write in a college essay? Let’s look at real personal statement examples that got students into top schools. These essays aren’t just about big achievements—they’re about honest, relatable stories.
 
• One student wrote about their attachment to pillows as a symbol of comfort and personal growth. Another used laptop stickers to reveal their quirky identity. Both are everyday topics, but they became powerful essays.
 
• Some essays focus on family, food, or even a grocery list. These topics work because they show what matters to you, not just what you’ve done. If you’re stuck, check out how to choose the best essay topic for more inspiration.
 
• Don’t be afraid to get creative. One student wrote about punk rock philosophy, while another explored the meaning of happiness through a spreadsheet. The key is to connect your story to your values and growth.
 
• Still unsure what to write in a college essay? Think about moments that changed you, challenges you’ve faced, or passions you’ve pursued. For more proven themes, visit this section on essay themes.

Supplemental Essay Examples

• Supplemental essays are your chance to show colleges what makes you tick. Unlike the main personal statement, these prompts often ask you to dig deeper into your interests, values, or reasons for choosing a particular school.
 
• If you’re wondering what to write in a college essay for supplements, think about moments that reveal your curiosity, creativity, or resilience. For example, one UChicago essay played with the “Why did the chicken cross the road?” prompt to showcase out-of-the-box thinking.
 
• Don’t just repeat your main essay! Instead, use these short responses to highlight new sides of yourself. Maybe you’ll write about a quirky hobby, a challenge you overcame, or a unique perspective you bring to campus.
 
• Be specific and genuine. If a school asks “Why us?”, don’t just say you love their campus. Mention a professor, a club, or a tradition that excites you. Show them you’ve done your homework!
 
• For more inspiration, check out the proven themes and common questions covered earlier in this guide.
 
• Remember, successful supplemental essays are focused, personal, and reveal something new about you. If you’re stuck, look at real examples to see how others tackled these prompts with creativity and heart.

Essays from Top Schools

• Want to know what to write in a college essay? Just look at essays from Harvard, Stanford, and other elite schools. These essays aren’t about listing achievements—they’re about telling your story in a way only you can.
 
• Top essays often use unexpected topics—like grocery lists, laptop stickers, or even bathroom reflections—to reveal personality and growth. The topic itself matters less than how you connect it to who you are.
 
• If you’re stuck, check out the topic selection guide for inspiration. Remember, successful essays show your voice, values, and quirks, not just your résumé.
 
• Notice how these essays highlight personal challenges, passions, or small moments. Whether it’s surviving yellow fever or starting a kombucha club, the best essays dig deep and reflect on what shaped you.
 
• Don’t be afraid to be honest or even a bit vulnerable. If you want more examples, the resource section is packed with real essays that worked.
 
• In short, what to write in a college essay? Write about what matters to you, and let your unique perspective shine—just like the students who made it to the top schools.

What Are the Most Common College Essay Questions?

How Do I Find My Topic?

• Start with self-reflection: Before you even think about what to write in a college essay, ask yourself what makes you tick. Jot down your quirks, values, and those “only me” moments that your friends tease you about.
 
• Think about how to choose the best essay topic by brainstorming stories that highlight your strengths. If you’re stuck, ask a friend or family member to remind you of your most unforgettable moments.
 
• Connect qualities to stories: Don’t just list your achievements—find a story that shows them in action. For example, instead of “I’m resilient,” tell the tale of the time you fixed the school printer at midnight before a deadline.
 
• Check if your topic is too common by reviewing proven themes. If it is, give it your own twist—your voice and details matter more than the topic itself.
 
• Ask for feedback: Sometimes, you’re too close to your own story to see what shines. A mentor, teacher, or even your dog (okay, maybe not your dog) can help you spot what’s truly unique.
 
• Finally, make sure your topic lets you show growth, self-awareness, and a bit of your personality. That’s what college admissions officers are really looking for when they ask what to write in a college essay.

How to Avoid Cliché Topics?

• Skip the “everyone does this” stories: If you’re tempted to write about scoring the winning goal or learning from a family tragedy, pause! These are classic examples of what not to write in a college essay if you want to stand out.
 
• Instead, dig into your unique experiences—the quirky, personal moments that only you could write about. Colleges want to see the real you, not a highlight reel they’ve read a thousand times.
 
• Be specific, not generic: If you must address a common theme, add your own twist. For example, don’t just say you learned teamwork from soccer—describe the hilarious team chant you invented that changed the season’s vibe.
 
• Ask yourself: “Could anyone else write this?” If the answer is yes, it’s time to brainstorm again. Check out proven themes for inspiration on what to write in a college essay that’s truly yours.
 
• Reflect deeply: The best essays reveal your growth, quirks, and values. Don’t just tell a story—show how it shaped you. That’s what makes admissions officers remember your application.

Can I Explain Bad Grades?

• Yes, you can address bad grades in your college essay—but don’t just write a list of excuses. If you choose this topic, focus on the story behind the grades and what you learned from the experience.
 
• Admissions officers want to see growth and resilience. If you had a rough semester, show how you bounced back, changed your habits, or developed new skills. That’s what to write in a college essay if you’re tackling tough grades.
 
• Keep it positive! Don’t dwell on the negatives. Instead, highlight how you turned things around or gained a new perspective. This keeps your essay uplifting and memorable.
 
• If you have a lot to explain, check if there’s an additional information section on the application. Sometimes, it’s better to use your main essay for a more meaningful topic—see my tips on choosing the best essay topic for inspiration.
 
• Whatever you decide, make sure your essay still shows your character, values, and unique voice. That’s the heart of what to write in a college essay, no matter the topic.

How to Revise Effectively?

• Start with the big picture: Ask yourself if your essay actually answers the most common college essay questions. If not, you may need to rethink what to write in a college essay before you get lost in the details.
 
• Check if your main message is clear and personal. If your essay could be written by anyone else, it’s time to make it more “you.” For tips on choosing unique angles, jump to this section.
 
• Read your essay out loud. If you stumble or get bored, your reader will too. Make sure every sentence flows and your personality shines through—no robot talk allowed!
 
• Look for clichés: If you spot overused topics or phrases, swap them for specific stories or details. Even a common topic can stand out if you add your own twist—see how in this part.
 
• Ask yourself: “Does this show who I am, or just tell?” Show your growth and values through examples, not just statements. If you’re stuck, revisit what a successful essay looks like.
 
• Polish for clarity and grammar: Typos and awkward sentences can distract from your story. Read it backward, line by line, or ask a friend to spot what you miss.

How to Show Achievements and Qualities?

• Tell stories, not just facts: Instead of listing awards, describe a moment when you actually earned one. Paint a picture—let the reader see you in action, not just on a résumé.
 
• Admissions officers want to know how you think and grow. Share a challenge or a quirky project, then explain what you learned. This is what to write in a college essay if you want to stand out.
 
• Don’t be afraid to show your unique qualities. Maybe you’re persistent, creative, or a master of dad jokes. Use specific examples—like that time you solved a problem in an unexpected way.
 
• If you’re stuck, ask friends or family what makes you memorable. Their stories might spark ideas for your topic or reveal qualities you didn’t even notice.
 
• Connect your achievements to your values. Did you help someone, lead a team, or bounce back from failure? Show how these moments shaped who you are and what you care about.
 
• Remember, colleges want authenticity. Don’t exaggerate or humble-brag. Just be real, be specific, and let your personality shine through every sentence.
 
• For more tips on what to write in a college essay, check out these proven themes and see what makes a story truly memorable.

How to Write About Challenges?

• Be real, not dramatic: When you’re thinking about what to write in a college essay, sharing a challenge is great—but don’t just list your struggles. Show how you handled it and what you learned. That’s what colleges actually care about.
 
• Focus on growth and resilience. Admissions officers want to see how you bounce back, not just what knocked you down. Highlight the skills or values you gained from the experience.
 
• Use brainstorming tips to dig up stories where you faced a tough situation. Even a small challenge can make a big impact if you show self-reflection and maturity.
 
• Avoid clichés: If you’re writing about a common topic (like a bad grade or family move), add your unique twist. Make it personal and specific—don’t just tell, show with vivid details.
 
• Keep it positive. Even if the story starts rough, end with how it made you stronger or changed your perspective. That’s what to write in a college essay if you want to stand out.
 
• Don’t overshare. Stay honest, but keep the focus on your growth, not just the hardship. If you need more ideas, check out how to choose the best essay topic.

What Self-Reflection Is Needed?

• Start with your core values: Before you even think about what to write in a college essay, ask yourself what truly matters to you. What beliefs guide your choices? This is your essay’s secret sauce.
 
• Think about how friends or family would describe you. If you’re stuck, try the classic “three words” exercise. It’s simple but surprisingly revealing—and yes, it helps you avoid sounding like a robot.
 
• Dig into your proudest (and not-so-proud) moments: Colleges want honesty. Reflect on what you’re most proud of, but don’t shy away from moments of failure. Just make sure you show how you grew from them.
 
• Ask yourself, “What’s a story only I can tell?” If your answer feels generic, keep digging. For more on picking unique stories, check out how to choose the best essay topic.
 
• Connect your experiences to your future goals: Admissions officers love to see how your past shapes your ambitions. Reflect on how your experiences have influenced what you want to do next.
 
• Don’t just list achievements—explain why they matter to you. This is what separates a memorable essay from a forgettable one. For more tips, see proven essay themes.

Where Can You Find More Essay Resources?

Recommended Essay Collections

• Personal Statement Examples: Dive into essays like “My Pillows & Me” or “Laptop Stickers” to see how everyday moments can spark unique stories. These examples show you what to write in a college essay when you’re stuck on where to start.
 
• Browse the Personal Statement Examples for inspiration on using metaphors, humor, or even grocery lists to express your personality and values. You’ll see that there’s no single formula—just honest storytelling.
 
• UC Essay Examples: If you’re aiming for the University of California, these essays highlight how to answer specific prompts while still revealing your authentic self. They’re a goldmine for anyone wondering what to write in a college essay that stands out.
 
• Check out Supplemental Essay Examples like “Why Did the Chicken Cross the Road?” for creative takes on quirky prompts. They’ll help you break out of the ordinary and show colleges your unique voice.
 
• Elite School Samples: Essays from students accepted to Harvard, Stanford, and Duke offer a behind-the-scenes look at what works. Notice how these essays connect personal growth to academic interests—just like you’ll learn in proven themes.
 
• Use these collections as a springboard to brainstorm your own ideas. If you’re ever unsure about what to write in a college essay, these examples will remind you that your story—no matter how small—can be your biggest asset.

Further Reading and Inspiration

• Explore real student essays: Dive into examples like “My Pillows & Me” or “Laptop Stickers” to see how others tackled the big question of what to write in a college essay. These stories show that even everyday topics can shine.
 
• Check out proven themes if you’re stuck. Sometimes, a quirky metaphor or a simple family moment can become your winning angle.
 
• Read essays from top schools: Harvard, Stanford, and Duke students have shared their secrets. Their essays prove that being genuine and specific beats trying to sound “perfect.”
 
• Want more inspiration? The most common college essay questions section will help you brainstorm what colleges actually want to hear.
 
• Don’t just read—analyze! Ask yourself: What makes these essays memorable? Is it the voice, the story, or the unique perspective?
 
• Try different formats: From grocery lists to happiness spreadsheets, creativity is your friend. There’s no single formula for what to write in a college essay.
 
• For a deep dive, explore the five steps to write a college essay and start outlining your own story today.

How I Make My College Essays 100% Undetectable (And You Can Too)

Alright, you made it to the end! So quick recap: we talked about picking the best topic, finding inspiration, using real examples, and nailing the structure for a college essay that totally stands out.

• Reason #1: Writer’s Block Is Real: You sit down and suddenly your mind is blank. Ideas feel boring or just not “special” enough. I’ve sat for hours just staring at my screen, doubting every idea.
 
• Reason #2: It’s Hard to Sound Unique: So many essay topics seem used a million times, and making yours “pop” with your own voice is really tough…and often you don’t even know if it’s working until it’s too late.
 
• Reason #3: Messing Up Structure (Or Forgetting Something): You have to organize your thoughts, keep your story smooth, and hit all the important points (hook, growth, lesson learned, and so on). Missing even one can sink your essay—ask me how I know (ouch).
 
• Reason #4: Worrying If It Sounds “AI-Generated”: A ton of students get flagged because their essay feels too robotic, or has weird phrasing. Colleges are running detection tools now. Stressful, right?

• #1 Real Human-Like, Undetectable Essays: Writing with AIDetectPlus means your essay always sounds natural—like, you, but on your best day. I’ve never had a draft that tripped up any AI checker, and it’s unique every time.
 
• #2 Credits That Last Forever: And this is my favorite part—your credits never expire. Buy them once, use them whenever you want (even if you totally forget about that deadline until the last second!).
 
• #3 Super Friendly, Fast Support: If you ever get stuck, there’s a real person who emails back super fast. I always get answers in less than a day—sometimes even just an hour.
 
• #4 All the Tools—Essay Writer, Plagiarism Checker, Citation Maker, Paraphraser, Research Assistant: It’s all in one place, so you never have to open another tab or stress about finding examples. Just hit the menu (up top!) and you’ll see everything you need in one click.