List of common college essay prompts
Common application essay examples
The event, accomplishment, or realization you discuss should be something that helped you understand the world around you through a different, more mature lens. Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. Be careful with that opening word "describe"—you'll want to spend much more time analyzing the problem than describing it. What matters is the story you want to tell. I realized that I had spent so much energy going against the grain that I had no idea what my true interests were. Have you treated others differently since then? Framing the prompt in this way allows you to tackle heavier questions about ethics and demonstrate your self-awareness. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. My mother had been a source of strength for me, and now I would be strong for her through her long recovery ahead. Q:How is your perspective on the world unique?Show the admissions committee who you are beyond grades and test scores and 2. What, in my seventeen years on this earth, has helped shape the person I am today?
Admissions officers want insight into your thought process and the issues you grapple with, so explain how you became aware of the dilemma and how you tackled solving it. This prompt lends itself to consideration of what facets of your personality allow you to overcome adversity.
Alternatively, a more relaxed way to address this prompt is using an informal event or realization, which would allow you to show more personality and creativity.
Did your desire to make a stronger, non-tearable hockey skate lace launch you on an entrepreneurial adventure you never fully anticipated? However, reflecting on how your culture has shaped your experiences can make for a compelling essay.
Sometimes it's better to write about something that was hard for you because you learned something than it is to write about something that was easy for you because you think it sounds admirable.