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Duke University
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UCLA
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Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

Writing an essay about overcoming a challenge

I've faced a few significant challenges in my life, and I'm considering writing my college essay about one. How do I choose which challenge to write about, and what advice do you have for making sure that my essay comes across as authentic and impactful, rather than just a sob story?

a year ago

When choosing which challenge to write about, consider the following factors: the uniqueness of the challenge, the lessons learned from it, and the personal growth that resulted. Select an experience that showcases your resilience and maturity. Additionally, focusing on a challenge that connects with your academic goals or future aspirations may make your essay more relevant to college admissions officers.

To ensure your essay comes across as authentic and impactful, avoid dwelling on the negative aspects of the challenge. Instead, focus on the positive outcomes, such as the problem-solving skills, determination, or empathy you developed. Make sure to create a balance between narrating the challenge itself and the growth that followed it. Show how the experience shaped you and contributed to your current strengths. Finally, don't be afraid to inject your own voice and personal style into the essay – this will help make it unique and unforgettable. Good luck with your essay!

a year ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.