Step 2-1: Brainstorming
Expected Time: 1 Hour
Some students already have an idea or two about what to write, and others are unsure. As we begin brainstorming, approach it with an open mind. Even if already you have a few ideas, that’s great, but don’t get locked into them - be open to exploring some new ones that might hold more potential. If you don’t have any ideas on where to begin, relax and know that everything will come together so long as you actively engage in the process.
Remember, our focus is on what colleges might what to know about you - don’t get sucked into the “what do colleges want to hear?” thinking.
This step requires self-reflection. You'll need to complete the brainstorming organizer shown at the left.
Think about the different aspects of your life and how your experiences have shaped you.
Try your best to come up with 4-8 bullet points for EACH quadrant.
If you get stuck on this activity, you can:
- ask parents to help brainstorm ideas - sometimes they remember things that you've forgetten about.
- go for a walk or bike ride and mull over the different quadrants. Sometimes getting the blood pumping can help!
The best ideas are ones that reveal something meaningful about you. A trip to Hawaii might have been fun, but it may not show a deeper lesson or personal quality. Take time to reflect and come up with lots of ideas.
Go to the Essays Folder in CounselMore (in FILES tab) and open Step 2, Part 1: Brainstorming Organizer
When finished with the organizer, come back and continue to Step 2, Part 2.