Prework

Everyday Experiences

When you trust the process and let your story unfold naturally, the essay becomes less overwhelming. Some of the best essays come from simple, everyday moments—like skipping  your volleyball match to babysit your brother, a family camping trip, or auditioning for a school play.

Ordinary moments often reveal our truest selves and teach meaningful life lessons.

Standing Out

Your essay is your chance to showcase your strengths or something new about yourself—something that is not going to be included in your application. Don’t waste space repeating your résumé. Instead, use the essay to answer the real question admissions readers are asking: “Who is this student?”

Think of it as a personal introduction or even a substitute for an interview. What makes your essay stand out isn’t just the story—it’s your voice. No one else can tell your story the way you can.

It's OK to Sound Like a Student!

Admissions officers expect you to sound like a 17- or 18-year-old—because you are! If your essay sounds too polished or “adult,” it can raise red flags. It can even cost you an admissions offer if the reader thinks you didn't write it yourself.

That’s why I recommend holding off on feedback from parents or English teachers. Parents often (unknowingly) replace your voice with theirs, and English teachers may treat it like a formal paper, not a personal story. Their feedback can clash with what admissions readers actually want. You’ll have an opportunity to collect input from others in the final steps if you decide to do so.

Your authentic, unique voice is what makes your essay stand out. Trust it.

What Happened & Why It Matters

Here’s an opening line from a college essay: “I would have never guessed I had intestinal parasites dining on my insides.”

Gross, but it grabbed the University of Oregon’s attention — and helped the student get into the Honors College.

Why? Because she told a compelling story. She used the experience to explain how an autoimmune condition (what happened) led to new habits, stress management, and a career interest in health care (why it mattered).

It wasn’t just about parasites — it was about growth. The story was authentic, personal, and memorable.

Can I use ChatGPT?

Do you want your essay to blend in—or stand out?

If you want to shine, don’t rely on ChatGPT to write your essay. It might produce something decent, but not something unique. Admissions readers can tell when an essay sounds generic or lacks personal detail.

Plus, some colleges ban AI use and check essays for it. Better to play it safe—and be yourself.

What Should I Write About?

The college essay is unlike anything you’ve written before—and that’s a good thing. It’s your chance to tell your story, in your own words, and share what truly matters to you. For many students, it’s the first time writing in the first person and reflecting on something that can shape their future. That might feel big—but you’ve got this.

Don’t worry about picking the “perfect” topic. What matters most is that it shows growth, insight, and who you are. There are very few off-limits topics if you're being real and honest.

This isn’t a school report or a five-paragraph essay. And it’s not about selling yourself. It’s about opening a door and inviting the reader in to meet the amazing person behind the application.

Let’s get started—you’ve got a story worth telling.