How to Brainstorm and Write a College Essay

What Should I Write My College Essay About?

• Focus on You:
• Your topic is just an excuse to showcase your personality, values, and what you bring to a college community.

• Share insights into who you are beyond transcripts and test scores.

• Consider These Questions:

• What motivates you
• What are your core values and beliefs
• What unique perspectives or experiences define you

Brainstorming Techniques to Find Your Topic

• Values Exercise:
• Identify your core values (e.g., resilience, creativity, curiosity).

• Think about how these values are reflected in your life and experiences.

• Essence Object Exercise:

• List objects that hold special meaning for you (e.g., a journal, family recipe card).

• Use these objects as entry points into your story.

• Forked Path Exercise:

• Reflect on moments of change or growth.

• What was life like before and after

• 21 Details Exercise:

• Write 21 random facts about yourself—quirks, habits, preferences, experiences.

• Look for patterns or stories that stand out.

• Non-Negotiables Exercise:

• List things you can’t live without (e.g., family, adventure, tradition).
• Think about how these shape your identity.

How to Draft Your Essay

• Outline First:
• Montage Structure: Thematically connected anecdotes and insights tied to a central theme.

• Narrative Structure: A chronological story with a challenge, response, and reflection.

• Show and Tell:

• Show: Use vivid details and examples to bring your story to life.

• Tell: Clearly explain what the story reveals about you and your values.

• Don’t Worry About Word Count (Yet):

• Focus on getting your ideas down. You can refine later.

• Reflect and Revise:

• After writing a draft, take a break.
• Return with fresh eyes to refine, clarify, and ensure your essay aligns with your values.

What Not to Write About

• Shock Value: Avoid writing something outrageous just to grab attention.
• Unpracticed Humor: Humor is tricky and can easily backfire.
• Complaints: Focus on what you’ve learned, not just what you’ve endured.
• Crimes: Avoid revisiting past misdeeds (even minor ones).
• Generic Topics: Don’t focus broadly on "society" or "humankind"—be personal and specific.

How to Know if Your Essay is Good ✅

• Checklist:
• At least 4-5 core values.
• Moments of vulnerability and insight.
• Clear “so what” reflections that connect back to your theme.
• Strong writing craft, including vivid details and a cohesive structure.

Sample Essays with Analysis

• Essence Jar (Montage):
• Summary: A writer reflects on objects representing personal values and experiences (e.g., sports, travel, family traditions).

• Strengths: Personal, specific, and full of vivid imagery. Clear connections between objects and values.

• I Swear I’m Hispanic (Identities Montage):

• Summary: A student navigates stereotypes, cultural identity, and advocacy while highlighting personal growth.

• Strengths: Combines humor and introspection. Effectively balances storytelling with deeper insights.

• Witness Protection in Egypt (Narrative):

• Summary: A student campaigns for legal changes to protect victims of sexual violence in Egypt.
• Strengths: Shares personal hardships and ties them to broader societal impact. Clear values of justice and advocacy.

Pro Tip for Success

Your college essay is about you—your voice, your story, your values. Show who you are, why you care, and what you’ll contribute to a campus community. Be bold, authentic, and thoughtful!

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