Let’s be real—writing a college essay can feel like a lot. You’re supposed to sum up who you are, impress admissions officers, and somehow not sound like a robot. No pressure, right?

But here’s the truth: your college essay isn’t about using big words or listing every accomplishment. It’s about telling a story only you can tell. Something real. Something that makes the reader feel something.

Let’s break it down and make this process way less stressful.

1. Pick a Topic That Matters (to You, Not Just Admissions Officers)

Forget what you think colleges want to hear. What’s a moment in your life that shaped you? Made you see things differently? Made you you?

• Maybe it’s a challenge you overcame, a passion that fuels you, or a random moment that changed your perspective.
• Avoid the “biggest game of my life” or “the time I went on a mission trip” essays—unless you have a unique angle.
• Think small if needed! Sometimes, the most powerful stories come from everyday moments.

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2. Hook ‘Em From the First Line

Imagine your essay is a TikTok. If it doesn’t grab attention in the first few seconds, people (aka admissions officers) will zone out.

• Start with a moment. A weird thought. A question. Something that makes them want to keep reading.
• Set the scene—make them feel like they’re there with you.
• Skip the “Ever since I was a kid…” intro. You’re better than that.

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3. Show, Don’t Just Tell

You know how movies show emotions instead of just saying them? Your essay should do the same.

•  Instead of saying, “I worked really hard,” tell a story that shows your determination.
• Use dialogue, real moments, and details that make your story come alive.
• Think about how your best friend would describe the moment—write it like that.

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4. Reflect—Why Does This Story Matter?

Cool, you told a story. Now what? Colleges want to see why this moment was important.

• What did you learn? How did it change you?
• Connect it to your future—how does this moment shape who you want to be?
• Show why you’d be an awesome addition to their campus.

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5. Keep It Simple, Keep It You

Your essay isn’t an English paper. You don’t need fancy words or overcomplicated sentences.

• Stick to the word limit (500-650 words).
• Cut the fluff—no need for filler sentences that say nothing.
• Read it out loud. If it doesn’t sound like you, rewrite it.

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6. Edit Like a Pro (Because First Drafts Are Never Perfect)

No one writes a perfect essay on the first try. That’s normal.

• Get feedback from a teacher, mentor, or friend who gets you.
• Check for grammar and flow, but don’t edit out your personality.
• If it doesn’t sound like you, tweak it until it does.

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Final Thoughts

Your college essay isn’t just another assignment—it’s your chance to show who you really are. Be real, tell a story that matters, and don’t stress trying to sound perfect.

You got this. 🚀

Want more college admissions tips? Check out Cirkled In Library for expert advice and tools to help you build a winning college application and land a spot at your dream school!

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