I've hit a wall trying to write my college essay. I can't decide if I should center it around my intended major or if that’s too cliché and they’d rather hear about something else. Did anyone else write about their major, or did you find it was better to go with a different topic? Looking for some direction here to make my essay stand out!
Hey there! As someone who guides students through the admissions process, I can understand why choosing a topic for your college essay can be daunting. The essay is your chance to show who you are beyond grades and test scores. While focusing on your intended major can be effective if you're truly passionate about it and have unique experiences that relate to it, it's by no means a requirement. What makes an essay stand out is how deeply personal and introspective it is. For example, a student interested in environmental science might write about their major and the volunteer work they did with local parks, but what made this essay shine wasn't the topic—it was the storytelling and the reflections on what they learned about their community and themselves. If there is a particular story or aspect of your life that reveals your character, passions, or critical thinking skills, that's going to engage admissions officers. Think about a narrative that can show your individuality and how you've grown from your experiences, regardless of whether it's directly related to your major. Remember, the essay is really about you, not just what you want to study.
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