Avoiding cliche college essay topics

Hi everyone! So I'm working on my college essay, and I really don't want to write about a super cliche topic. What are some topics I should avoid to make sure my essay stands out? Thanks for your help!

Hi there! It's wise to steer clear of cliches in your college essay, as you want to make a memorable impression on admissions officers, not write about something they've seen thousands of times before. Here are some cliche topics you should avoid:

1. Sports injuries or victories: These stories can be dull and predictable, as they have been written about extensively.

2. Overcoming a difficult class or subject: Many students write about struggling in math class or acing a challenging test, which doesn't bring out their unique qualities.

3. Moving to a new place or being an immigrant: This is a common experience for many students, so it's essential to find a unique way to present it if you choose to write about it.

4. Volunteer trips: Essays that recount life-changing volunteer experiences can sometimes read as superficial or self-congratulatory.

You can find a more extensive list of cliche topics to avoid on CollegeVine's blog, as well as suggestions for how to make them more personal: https://blog.collegevine.com/cliche-college-essay-topics. Instead of writing about these cliches, focus on a singular topic or experience that is truly unique to you and showcases your personality, values, or passions. Revealing your authentic character is what will make your essay stand out from the countless others admissions officers have to read.

Remember, you don't need to write about something admissions officers have absolutely never seen before, as that's practically impossible given the number of applications they read each year. So long as your topic has a unique spin, and connects to your personal feelings and deeper reflections, you'll be able to craft a strong essay centered on it. Good luck!