Step 2-2: Outlining 4 Ideas

Expected Time: 30-60 minutes

Now, let's consider some examples before you decide what to write about.

Example #1

What's the story? Teaching Ellie to swim.

What are the key details? I worked with her all summer, she was scared, wouldn’t put her face in the water, last day she finally tried it. I didn’t feel frustrated and really wanted to help her. Pool was quiet that day, a little overcast, she was playful and trusted me.

How did this change me or what did this mean to me? This was the first time I felt like I taught someone something. I want to do that again, whether as a swim instructor or in other aspects of my life.

What characteristics does this reveal about me?  Patience, trustworthy, supportive, 

Example #2

What's the story? Robotics competition

What are the key details? This year we almost won the State championship. Our coach always told us to focus on one important thing at a time. Under pressure, I remembered that advice and encouraged my teammates to follow it. We worked so well together. Even though we didn’t win, it was our best year yet.

How did this change me or what did this mean to me? I know how to focus and lead others. I gained confidence as a leader and become more involved in other activities such as starting a school STEM Club and a Dungeons and Dragons Club.

What characteristics does this reveal about me? Calm, leadership, inspire others, grit, perserverance


How to Stand Out

You can just about choose any topic for your essay, but it's important to select one that helps you stand out.  You want to be memorable!

That means picking something unique that reveals something meaningful, different, or special about you.

Be CAREFUL with these topics:

  • Sports Injuries: Many students write about overcoming an injury. It was a something you had to overcome, but it happens to a lot of students and it's hard to make your story stand out when compared to otherw with a similar experience.

  • Grandparent Death: Common topic. Only write about it if you focus on a unique angle, like a skill or experience they helped you gain.

  • Big Trip: Can come off as privileged. Be cautious.

  • Sports Wins: Winning a game doesn’t usually show deep growth or reflection.

  • Mental Health Issues: Only write about this if you're past it and can show growth. Still, it can raise concerns for colleges.

  • First Love: Too personal. Colleges don’t want this kind of story.

  • Personal Confession: Avoid sharing anything illegal or too private. This is not the right place for that.


Open Step 2, Part 2: Outlining Ideas in the Essay Folder in the FILES tab in CounselMore. 

  • Review the experiences you listed in the brainstorming organizer.
  • Select 4 ideas that you feel are the most meaningful and that you would be able to write more about.
  • If possible, choose topics from the different quadrants.
  • Consider whether these stories reveal personal growth, resilience, or a defining moment.
  • Be as detailed as possible - these are just conversation starters and don’t need to be perfect.
  • If you write about something that will be part of your activities list, you'll want to be able to go deeper, so make sure the topic you select allows you to showcase additional traits and lessons learned.


We will discuss your ideas in your brainstorming meeting. 

Check the “Done” box in CounselMore as you complete each task so I'll know you are finished so I can review it before our meeting.