Feeling a bit stressed about the Common App essay. How did you guys pick which prompt to write about? Should I choose the one that's easiest to write or the one that seems the most unique? I want my application to stand out, but I also want to make sure I'm being true to myself.
It makes sense to feel some pressure about the Common App essay—it's a significant piece of your application. Picking a prompt should balance what feels most authentic to your experiences and where you can also stand out. Remember, there's no 'best' prompt; there's only the best prompt for you.
I've always suggested that students start by jotting down a few stories or experiences that have fundamentally shaped their perspectives or character. Once you have these, look at which prompts align most naturally with your stories. It's often not about picking the unique prompt but rather approaching a common prompt in a unique way. For example, if you choose a prompt like 'an obstacle you’ve overcome,' instead of a broad story about a challenging course, focus on a specific moment where you had a realization that changed the way you approach learning. This gives you both a personal narrative and can set you apart, even with a more frequently chosen prompt.
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