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Duke University
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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)

Proposing Good Topics for a Stand-Out College Essay

Hey guys, I'm brainstorming for my college essays and could really use some inspiration or advice. What are generally considered good topics that make for a memorable college essay? Hoping to find a theme that can really showcase who I am beyond grades and scores. Any veterans of the application process willing to share their two cents?

10 months ago

Absolutely, I’d be happy to offer some guidance! A great college essay topic is often one that provides a window into your unique personality and experiences. Remember, admissions officers read thousands of essays, so a topic that can set you apart can be valuable. Draw from personal anecdotes that have shaped your character or worldview, like a unique family tradition or a formative challenge you've overcome. Sometimes, diving into a seemingly ordinary moment that reveals your passions, quirks, or values can be wonderfully compelling. For example, a student once wrote about the sense of community they felt at their weekly family dinners, which showed their deep appreciation for diverse perspectives gathered around the table. This theme expanded to their desire to create inclusive communities in college and beyond. Engaging stories like that which are close to your heart will not only be memorable but will also offer depth into who you are.

10 months ago

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