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Is it better to write about a personal challenge or an accomplishment in my college essay?

Hey guys, I'm torn between writing about a personal challenge I've overcome or an accomplishment I'm proud of for my college essay. Which one do you think would make a stronger essay? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

a year ago

It's great that you're already thinking about your college essay! Both personal challenges and accomplishments can make for strong essay topics, but it really depends on how you write about them and what aspect of your personality or experiences you want to highlight. Colleges are eager to get to know you as a person, beyond your considerable academic achievements.

When my child was applying to college, their essay focused on a challenge they faced and the growth that resulted from it. This approach allowed them to showcase their resilience, problem-solving skills, and personal growth. An essay about an accomplishment can also be powerful if it shows qualities like leadership, dedication, or creativity.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to pick a topic that feels authentic to you and allows you to tell a compelling story. Whichever direction you choose, make sure the essay speaks to your personal journey and the traits that make you a unique prospective student.

a year ago

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