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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)

What unique topics can make my college essay stand out?

Hey everyone, I'm kinda worried about my college essay. I want to write about something that truly reflects who I am but also catches the admission officers' eye. Can you share some advice on picking unique topics? How did you guys choose something personal but also distinctive?

10 months ago

Choosing a unique essay topic can indeed make your application memorable. Start by reflecting on experiences or hobbies that are genuinely meaningful to you, rather than what you think admissions officers want to hear. For example, if you have a hobby that's unusual for someone in your demographic or have faced a particular challenge that has shaped your view of the world, those can be rich topics. One student I worked with wrote about her passion for urban beekeeping, which was both distinctive and revealed her commitment to environmental issues. Remember, the key is not only the topic itself but the insights and reflections you share about it. It's important to strike a balance between uniqueness and sincerity; your essay should give the reader a deeper understanding of who you are beyond your resume. Finally, whatever topic you choose, make sure it demonstrates qualities like leadership, resilience, creativity, or whatever else you want to highlight about yourself. Start brainstorming and best of luck with your essay!

10 months ago

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