Whether you’re facing writer’s block or just need some extra guidance choosing an argumentative essay topic, we at Empowerly are here to help! Read on to learn more about what an argumentative essay is, how you can effectively brainstorm to make the most out of your writing sessions, and topics to help guide your thinking.

Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

1. Health-focused topics
   1. Is healthcare a fundamental right for everyone?
   2. Should BMI be removed as a required measure of health?
   3. Should mass vaccination be required?
   4. Should DNA be kept by companies who perform genealogical research?
   5. Should AI be allowed to be a part of healthcare?
      
2. Technological-focused topics
   1. Should self-driving cars be fully implemented in our society?
   2. Is social media bad for us?
   3. Should computers be allowed in classrooms?
   4. Is technology impacting our intelligence?
   5. Should we allow VR to replace the classroom, workplace, etc.?
      
3. Environmental-focused topics
   1. Are farms hurting the environment?
   2. Should someone found littering be implicated by the law?
   3. Is global warming real?
   4. Are electric cars better for the environment?
   5. Is technology damaging to the environment?
      
4. Societal/Cultural-focused topics
   1. Is there a difference in pay for men and women?
   2. Should workplaces and schools monitor employee/student social media accounts?
   3. Should books be allowed to be banned from schools?
   4. Should schools enforce the pledge of allegiance?
      
5. Educational-focused topics
   1. Should schools require students to follow a dress code?
   2. Is online learning effective?
   3. Should students learn a foreign language?
   4. Should the school day be required to start after 9 AM?
   5. Is gym class helpful for students?
   6. Are field trips effective for student learning?
      
6. Economics
   1. Should there be a universal basic income?
   2. Is cryptocurrency the future of global finance?
   3. How can wealth inequality be effectively addressed?
   4. Should student loan debt be forgiven?
   5. Is a four-day work week economically viable?
      
7. Gender and Sexuality
   1. Should gender-neutral bathrooms be mandatory in public spaces?
   2. How can workplace policies better support LGBTQ+ employees?
   3. Should gender reassignment surgery be covered by health insurance?
   4. Is single-sex education still relevant in modern society?
   5. How can we address the gender pay gap effectively?
      
8. Politics
   1. Should voting be mandatory for all eligible citizens?
   2. Is a two-party system effective for modern democracy?
   3. Should there be term limits for all elected officials?
   4. How can we combat the spread of misinformation in politics? 
   5. Should the electoral college system be abolished?
      
9. History
   1. Should historical monuments of controversial figures be removed?
   2. How can we ensure a more inclusive representation in historical education?
   3. Is it ethical to use AI to recreate historical figures or events?
   4. Should reparations be paid for historical injustices?
   5. How can we better preserve oral histories and traditions?
      
10. Psychology
    1. Should mindfulness meditation be taught in schools?
    2. Is social media addiction a clinical disorder?
    3. How can we destigmatize seeking mental health treatment?
    4. Should employers be required to provide mental health days?
    5. Is the current DSM classification system effective for diagnosing mental health disorders?
       
11. Science and Ethics
    1. Should human genetic engineering be allowed?
    2. Is it ethical to use animals in scientific research?
    3. How should we regulate artificial intelligence development?
    4. Should scientists be held responsible for the misuse of their discoveries?
    5. Is it ethical to create human-animal hybrids for organ transplantation?
       
12. Art and Literature
    1. Should AI-generated art be eligible for awards?
    2. How can we preserve endangered languages through literature?
    3. Should controversial artworks be censored in public spaces?
    4. Is cultural appropriation in art always unethical?
    5. Should classic literature with outdated views be taught in schools?
       
13. Media and Communication
    1. Should social media platforms be held responsible for user content?
    2. How can we combat the spread of fake news?
    3. Is internet access a basic human right?
    4. Should there be stricter regulations on targeted advertising?
    5. How can we ensure media diversity in the age of conglomerates?
       
14. Business and Corporate Ethics
    1. Should there be a cap on CEO salaries?
    2. Is corporate social responsibility genuinely beneficial or just PR?
    3. How can we ensure ethical supply chains in global businesses?
    4. Should corporations have the same rights as individuals?
    5. Is it ethical for companies to collect and sell user data?
       
15. Fashion and Beauty
    1. Should fashion brands be required to use diverse models?
    2. How can the fashion industry become more sustainable?
    3. Should there be age restrictions on cosmetic surgeries?
    4. Is cultural appropriation in fashion always unethical?
    5. Should beauty products be required to list all ingredients?
       
16. Food and Nutrition
    1. Should sugar be regulated like alcohol and tobacco?
    2. Is veganism the most ethical and sustainable diet?
    3. Should GMO foods be labeled?
    4. How can we address food deserts in urban areas?
    5. Should fast food advertising to children be banned?
       
17. Legal and Criminal Justice
    1. Should the death penalty be abolished worldwide?
    2. Is restorative justice more effective than punitive justice?
    3. Should drug addiction be treated as a health issue rather than a criminal one?
    4. How can we address racial bias in the criminal justice system?
    5. Should AI be used in judicial decision-making?
       
18. Music
    1. Should streaming platforms pay artists more equitably?
    2. Is music piracy still a significant issue in the digital age?
    3. How can we preserve endangered musical traditions?
    4. Should explicit lyrics in music be censored?
    5. Is AI-composed music a threat to human musicians?
       
19. Parenting and Family
    1. Should parental leave be mandatory and equal for both parents?
    2. Is homeschooling a viable alternative to traditional education?
    3. How can we better support single-parent families?
    4. Should children have a say in custody battles?
    5. Is it ethical to use technology to select a child’s genetic traits?
       
20. Pets and Animals
    1. Should exotic animal ownership be banned?
    2. Is veganism the most ethical approach to pet food?
    3. Should animals have legal rights similar to humans?
    4. How can we address the issue of pet overpopulation?
    5. Should zoos be abolished or reformed?
       
21. Sports
    1. Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in professional sports?
    2. How can we address gender inequality in sports?
    3. Should college athletes be paid?
    4. Is e-sports a legitimate form of sport?
    5. Should violent sports like boxing be banned?
       
22. Travel and Tourism
    1. How can we make tourism more sustainable?
    2. Should there be a global tax on air travel to offset carbon emissions?
    3. Is voluntourism ethical?
    4. Should tourist caps be implemented in overcrowded destinations?
    5. How can we preserve local cultures in the face of mass tourism?
       
23. Work and Employment
    1. Is a four-day workweek feasible and beneficial?
    2. Should there be a universal basic income?
    3. How can we address age discrimination in the workplace?
    4. Should remote work become the new norm?
    5. Is automation a threat or opportunity for the job market?
       
24. Youth and Adolescence
    1. Should the voting age be lowered?
    2. How can we address the mental health crisis among youth?
    3. Should smartphones be banned in schools?
    4. Is social media harmful to adolescent development?
    5. Should sex education be mandatory in all schools?
       
25. Gaming
    1. Are violent video games linked to real-world violence?
    2. Should loot boxes be regulated as a form of gambling?
    3. How can we address gaming addiction?
    4. Should esports be included in the Olympics?
    5. Is virtual reality gaming the future of the industry
       
26. Film and Television
    1. Should streaming services be required to produce local content?
    2. How can we increase diversity in Hollywood?
    3. Should historical accuracy be prioritized over artistic license in films?
    4. Is binge-watching culture harmful?
    5. Should AI be used in film production and scriptwriting?
       
27. Personal Finance
    1. Should financial literacy be mandatory in schools?
    2. Is cryptocurrency a viable investment option?
    3. How can we address the student debt crisis?
    4. Should there be a wealth tax?
    5. Is the traditional concept of retirement becoming obsolete?
       
28. Religion
    1. Should religious education be mandatory in schools?
    2. How can we promote interfaith dialogue and understanding?
    3. Should religious institutions be taxed?
    4. Is secularism the best approach for diverse societies?
    5. Should religious symbols be banned in public institutions?
       
29. Transportation
    1. Should private car ownership be discouraged in urban areas?
    2. Is high-speed rail the future of intercity travel?
    3. How can we make public transportation more accessible?
    4. Should self-driving cars be allowed on public roads?
    5. Is space tourism ethical given its environmental impact?
       
30. Social Media
    1. Should social media platforms be held responsible for user content?
    2. How can we combat online harassment and bullying?
    3. Should there be age restrictions for social media use?
    4. Is social media addiction a real disorder?
    5. How can we protect user privacy on social platforms?
       
31. Military and War
    1. Should military service be mandatory?
    2. Is the development of autonomous weapons ethical?
    3. How can we better support veterans?
    4. Should private military contractors be regulated?
    5. Is nuclear disarmament achievable?
       
32. Human Rights
    1. Should access to clean water be recognized as a human right?
    2. How can we effectively combat human trafficking?
    3. Should corporations be held accountable for human rights violations?
    4. Is internet access a basic human right?
    5. How can we protect the rights of stateless individuals?
       
33. Medicine
    1. Should healthcare be universal and free?
    2. Is human gene editing ethical?
    3. Should vaccination be mandatory?
    4. How can we address the opioid crisis?
    5. Should euthanasia be legalized?
       
34. Space Exploration
    1. Should we prioritize space exploration over Earth’s problems?
    2. Who should own resources mined from asteroids or other planets?
    3. Is it ethical to colonize other planets?
    4. Should space debris cleanup be mandatory for space agencies?
    5. How can we make space exploration more sustainable?
       
35. Philosophy
    1. Is free will an illusion?
    2. Can artificial intelligence be conscious?
    3. Is moral relativism valid?
    4. Should we prioritize the greater good over individual rights?
    5. Is there a meaning to life beyond what we create?
       
36. Culture
    1. How can we preserve endangered cultures?
    2. Is cultural appropriation always harmful?
    3. Should indigenous languages be officially recognized?
    4. How can we promote cultural diversity in globalized societies?
       
37. Technology and Privacy
    1. Should facial recognition technology be regulated?
    2. Is data privacy a fundamental right?
    3. How can we protect children’s privacy online?
    4. Should encryption have backdoors for law enforcement?
    5. Is it ethical for companies to sell user data?
       
38. Housing
    1. Should housing be a fundamental right?
    2. How can we address homelessness effectively?
    3. Is gentrification inevitably harmful?
    4. Should there be rent control in major cities?
    5. How can we make housing more sustainable?
       
39. Government
    1. Is direct democracy feasible in the digital age?
    2. Should there be term limits for all elected officials?
    3. How can we combat corruption in government?
    4. Should voting be mandatory?
       
40. Celebrity Culture
    1. Does celebrity activism have a meaningful impact?
    2. Should celebrities be held to higher moral standards?
    3. How does celebrity culture affect youth?
    4. Is the paparazzi industry ethical?
    5. Should social media influencers be regulated like traditional celebrities?
       
41. Climate Change
    1. Should there be a global carbon tax?
    2. How can we effectively transition to renewable energy?
    3. Should climate change denial be treated as misinformation?
    4. Is geoengineering a viable solution to climate change?
    5. How can we address climate refugee crises?
       
42. Digital Age
    1. How can we bridge the digital divide?
    2. Should digital literacy be taught in schools?
    3. Is the attention economy harmful to society?
    4. How can we combat digital addiction?
    5. Should there be a right to disconnect from work-related communications?
       
43. Nature
    1. Should natural resources have legal rights?
    2. How can we effectively combat deforestation?
    3. Should wildlife corridors be mandatory in urban planning?
    4. Is rewilding a viable conservation strategy?
    5. How can we address the decline in insect populations?
       
44. Pop Culture
    1. How does pop culture influence societal norms?
    2. Should streaming platforms be required to preserve cultural content?
    3. Is cancel culture a form of accountability or mob justice?
    4. How can we promote diversity in pop culture?
    5. Should fanfiction be protected under copyright law?
       
45. Immigration
    1. Should there be open borders?
    2. How can we combat xenophobia and promote integration?
    3. Should citizenship be birthright?
    4. How can we address the global refugee crisis?
    5. Should immigration policies be based on merit or humanitarian needs?
       
46. Writing
    1. Is AI-generated writing a threat to human authors?
    2. Should classic literature with outdated views be taught in schools?
    3. How can we preserve endangered languages through literature?
    4. Is fan fiction a legitimate form of literature?
    5. Should there be stricter regulations on plagiarism in the digital age?
       
47. Consumerism
    1. Is ethical consumption possible under capitalism?
    2. How can we promote sustainable consumption?
    3. Should there be limits on advertising?
    4. Is the sharing economy a solution to overconsumption?
    5. How can we address planned obsolescence?
       
48. Aging and Elder Care
    1. How can we combat ageism in society?
    2. Should there be a maximum age limit for elected officials?
    3. Is aging a disease that should be treated?
    4. How can we improve the quality of life in nursing homes?
    5. Should euthanasia be an option for the elderly?
       
49. Urban Development
    1. How can we create more sustainable cities?
    2. Should there be a limit on city size?
    3. How can we address urban food deserts?
    4. Is gentrification inevitably harmful?
    5. Should cities be designed for people or cars?
       
50. Marriage and Relationships
    1. Should polygamy be legalized?
    2. How can we address domestic violence effectively?
    3. Should marriage be privatized?
    4. Is monogamy natural or a social construct?
    5. How can we support healthy relationships in the digital age?
       
51. Language and Linguistics
    1. Should English remain the global lingua franca?
    2. How can we preserve endangered languages?
    3. Is inclusive language necessary for social progress?
    4. Should sign language be taught in all schools?
    5. How does language shape our perception of reality?
       
52. Infrastructure
    1. How can we make infrastructure more resilient to climate change?
    2. Should internet infrastructure be considered a public utility?
    3. Is privatization of infrastructure beneficial?
    4. How can we address the global sanitation crisis?
    5. Should we prioritize repairing existing infrastructure or building new?
       
53. International Relations
    1. Is the United Nations still relevant?
    2. How can we effectively combat global terrorism?
    3. Should there be an international court with real enforcement power?
    4. Is economic sanctions an effective foreign policy tool?
    5. How can we promote global cooperation on climate change?
       
54. Artificial Intelligence
    1. Should AI development be regulated globally?
    2. Can AI ever be truly ethical?
    3. How can we address AI bias?
    4. Should AI be granted legal personhood?
    5. Is strong AI (AGI) a threat to humanity?
       
55. Renewable Energy
    1. Should nuclear energy be considered renewable?
    2. How can we make renewable energy more accessible?
    3. Should fossil fuel companies be held liable for climate change?
    4. Is 100% renewable energy feasible for all countries?
    5. How can we address the environmental impact of renewable energy
       Infrastructure?
       
56. Genetic Engineering
    1. Should human genetic enhancement be allowed?
    2. How can we regulate CRISPR technology?
    3. Is it ethical to create genetically modified organisms for food?
    4. Should parents be allowed to choose their child’s genetic traits?
    5. How can we ensure genetic privacy?
       
57. Freedom of Speech
    1. Should hate speech be protected under free speech?
    2. How can we balance free speech and online content moderation?
    3. Should corporations have free speech rights?
    4. Is academic freedom under threat?
    5. How does national security impact freedom of speech?
       
58. Globalization
    1. Has globalization increased inequality?
    2. How can we make globalization more equitable?
    3. Is cultural homogenization an inevitable result of globalization?
    4. Should there be a global minimum wage?
    5. How can local economies thrive in a globalized world?
       
59. Gun Control
    1. Should the right to bear arms be a fundamental right?
    2. How can we balance gun rights with public safety?
    3. Should teachers be armed in schools?
    4. Is gun violence a public health issue?
    5. How can we address the root causes of gun violence?
       
60. Historical Interpretation
    1. Should historical figures be judged by modern standards?
    2. How can we ensure diverse perspectives in historical education?
    3. Should governments apologize for historical wrongs?
    4. Is objective historical truth possible?
    5. How can we combat historical revisionism?
       
61. Reproductive Rights
    1. Should abortion be legally unrestricted?
    2. How can we ensure access to contraception globally?
    3. Should surrogacy be regulated or banned?
    4. Is forced sterilization ever justified?
    5. Should men have a say in abortion decisions?
       
62. Social Justice
    1. Is affirmative action still necessary?
    2. How can we effectively combat systemic racism?
    3. Should reparations be paid for historical injustices?
    4. Is meritocracy a myth?
    5. How can we promote intersectionality in social justice movements?
63. Cybersecurity
    1. Should governments have encryption backdoors?
    2. How can we protect critical infrastructure from cyber attacks?
    3. Should there be a global cybersecurity treaty?
    4. Is complete online anonymity a right?
    5. How can we combat state-sponsored hacking?
       
64. Democracy
    1. Is democracy the best form of government?
    2. How can we combat voter suppression?
    3. Should voting be mandatory?
    4. Is social media a threat to democracy?
    5. How can we increase political participation among youth?
       
65. Cryptocurrencies
    1. Should cryptocurrencies be regulated by governments?
    2. Is Bitcoin mining environmentally sustainable?
    3. Can cryptocurrencies replace traditional banking systems?
    4. Should central banks issue their own digital currencies?
    5. How can we prevent cryptocurrency-based money laundering?
       
66. Disabilities
    1. How can we make education more inclusive for students with disabilities?
    2. Should companies be required to meet disability employment quotas?
    3. Is genetic screening for disabilities ethical?
    4. How can we make public spaces more accessible?
    5. Should sign language be taught in all schools?
       
67. Disease and Pandemics
    1. Should vaccines be mandatory?
    2. How can we better prepare for future pandemics?
    3. Is it ethical to prioritize certain groups for medical treatment during a pandemic?
    4. Should there be a global disease surveillance system?
    5. How can we address vaccine hesitancy?
       
68. Marketing
    1. Should targeted advertising to children be banned?
    2. Is subliminal advertising ethical?
    3. How can we regulate influencer marketing?
    4. Should there be stricter rules on health claims in advertising?
    5. Is neuromarketing an invasion of privacy?
       
69. Biology
    1. Should human cloning be allowed?
    2. Is it ethical to create human-animal hybrids for research?
    3. How can we ethically advance stem cell research?
    4. Should we bring back extinct species through de-extinction?
    5. Is it ethical to create artificial life forms?
       
70. Consumer Behavior
    1. How does social media influence consumer decisions?
    2. Is ethical consumption possible in a capitalist system?
    3. Should there be regulations on psychological tactics in marketing?
    4. How can we promote sustainable consumption?
    5. Is the ‘sharing economy’ changing consumer behavior for the better?
       
71. Equality
    1. How can we effectively close the gender pay gap?
    2. Should there be quotas for underrepresented groups in leadership positions?
    3. Is meritocracy a myth in modern society?
    4. How can we address unconscious bias in hiring processes?
    5. Should inheritance be heavily taxed to promote equality?
       
72. Journalism
    1. How can we combat the spread of fake news?
    2. Should journalists be protected under international law?
    3. Is citizen journalism a threat or opportunity for traditional media?
    4. How can we ensure media diversity in the age of conglomerates?
    5. Should social media platforms be considered publishers?
       
73. Innovation
    1. How can we foster innovation in education?
    2. Should there be ethical guidelines for technological innovations?
    3. Is the patent system helping or hindering innovation?
    4. How can developing countries boost their innovation capacity?
    5. Should governments invest more in basic research or applied innovation?
       
74. Public Policy
    1. How can we make evidence-based policymaking the norm?
    2. Should there be term limits for elected officials?
    3. How can we increase public participation in policy-making?
    4. Is universal basic income a viable policy solution?
    5. How can we design policies to address long-term challenges like climate
       Change?
       
75. Human Behavior
    1. How much of our behavior is influenced by genetics vs. environment?
    2. Can human behavior be accurately predicted by AI?
    3. How does social media affect human behavior and relationships?
    4. Is free will an illusion?
    5. How can we effectively change harmful societal behaviors?
       
76. Activism
    1. Is online activism (slacktivism) effective?
    2. How can we protect the rights of activists globally?
    3. Should corporations engage in social activism?
    4. Is civil disobedience justified in democratic societies?
    5. How can activism be more inclusive and intersectional?
       
77. Addiction and Substance Abuse
    1. Should all drugs be decriminalized?
    2. How can we effectively address the opioid crisis?
    3. Is sugar addiction a real phenomenon?
    4. Should alcohol advertising be banned?
    5. How can we better support families affected by addiction?
       
78. Agriculture and Farming
    1. Should GMOs be banned in food production?
    2. How can we make agriculture more sustainable?
    3. Is vertical farming the future of agriculture?
    4. Should agricultural subsidies be eliminated?
    5. How can we address the decline in global bee populations?
       
79. Architecture
    1. How can architecture combat climate change?
    2. Should there be a global style of architecture?
    3. How can we preserve historical architecture while modernizing cities?
    4. Should there be limits on skyscraper heights?
    5. How can architecture promote social interaction in urban spaces?
       
80. Global Issues
    1. How can we effectively address global wealth inequality?
    2. Should there be a world government?
    3. How can we ensure global food security?
    4. Is globalization a net positive for developing countries?
    5. How can we create a more sustainable global economy?

Well, what is an argumentative essay?

Video: How to Write an Argumentative Essay – Planning

If you’re like most, navigating the world of essays in high school can be quite daunting. With numerous different essay forms you’ve been taught to write, it can be hard to make a distinction between each to avoid writing the wrong type of essay altogether. 

Even more, argumentative essays are quite a tricky essay type if you’re not familiar with them. Luckily, there is hope. We want to define what an argumentative essay is and how it differs from other essay types, like persuasive or expository essays, in hopes of providing more clarity and direction as you proceed. 

Argumentative essays are essays that require a student to 

1. investigate a topic,
2. collect, generate, and evaluate evidence, 
3. and establish a concise, fact-based position on the topic.

While persuasive and expository essays are similar in nature, don’t let this fool you. 

As you can see from the three factors above, argumentative essays are heavily research-based, meaning you’ll be required to include and support your argument(s) with published sources and empirical research, like talking to students, conducting research and experiments, and so on. 

Persuasive essays, on the other hand, focus more on emotion and “persuading” someone to understand and believe in your thesis or topic. While you can (and will likely use) some supporting evidence when working to persuade your audience, your main focus is on trying to get the reader to agree with your personal perspective rather than understand your perspective as hard truth as with argumentative essays. 

You’ll likely find yourself writing argumentative essays A LOT in college, so be sure to familiarize yourself with what goes into them and how to write a good argumentative essay early on!

When it comes to the structure of an argumentative essay, much of it follows the same format as other essays you’ve written in the past.

First and foremost, argumentative essays begin with an introductory paragraph that lays out the topic you’re discussing, some background information, and a clear outline of the evidence you will be walking through throughout the essay. Arguably the most important piece of this essay is the thesis statement or the one-sentence summary of the main point you will argue in your piece. 

Following this, you’ll explain your stance and provide sufficient evidence in the body of the essay supporting your thesis statement. Each paragraph highlights a different perspective to support your thesis and uses different sources to do so. It’s recommended that you address potential opposing points of view and disprove/explain why you disagree with them in your paragraphs – this will only help to strengthen your essay further! 

Finally, end with your conclusion in which you recount (in a summary) your thesis and the arguments you provided throughout your essay. With this, you can end with a personal note showing your reader why you care about this piece to support your overall argument further! It is important to note that while you can share your opinion in your essay’s conclusion, your tone should remain reasonable and fair without adding too much obvious emotion. 

Keep this in mind as you begin to brainstorm your essay and try to explore both sides of the argument in your research before you begin writing to help keep your essay to the point and as evidence-based as possible.

How to brainstorm effectively

Video: How to Write an Argumentative Essay | Advance Writing

Now that you know exactly what an argumentative essay is, we can explore ways to brainstorm effectively and formulate and write a powerful argumentative piece. When beginning argumentative essays, it is very easy to hit writer’s block (something we all experience at one time or another). 

That’s where the powerful tool of brainstorming comes in; brainstorming allows you to work through your confusion and get all of your ideas down, even if they are disorganized, as you piece together your thoughts like a puzzle. There are many different ways to brainstorm and many different stages of the brainstorming process, but being able to do so effectively will allow you to develop strong argumentative essay topics and gather all of your information in an efficient manner that will help your writing process go more smoothly. 

First and foremost, it’s important to break down exactly what goes into an argumentative essay and use this to create a guide to navigate through your essay. When it comes to the purpose of argumentative essays, it’s important to remember that they require you to get a reader to accept your perspective as truth. 

Research

To do so, you need a topic to write your essay on that you can research and support with concrete evidence. Likely your teacher or professor will have provided you with at least a generalized overarching prompt which can be a starting point for brainstorming. 

If not, though, don’t worry – this is the perfect opportunity to discuss something you feel passionate about that can be supported by concrete research or evidence (likely, you’ll find yourself in this situation for a senior project or capstone project). With this in mind, we’ll take two approaches to the brainstorming process to provide you with the most helpful way to develop and navigate the jungle of argumentative essays.

Your Prompt

If you’ve been given a topic or overarching theme to work with, then you’ve climbed half of the first hill (unfortunately of many) that lies ahead. Now is the time to narrow this overarching theme down – here are a few things to think about when doing so that should help you on the path to solidifying your argumentative essay topic:

• Is there something about this topic that interests you?
• Do you have a strong opinion on this topic that you can back up with empirical evidence?
• Is there a lot of research available on this topic?
• Is this topic too broad? If so, is there some way you can narrow this down further?

If you haven’t been given a prompt or overarching theme, ask yourself these questions:

• What am I passionate about?
• What can I debate with facts?
• Do I have enough evidence to back up my topic?
• Is there anything that sparks my interest that’s debatable?

Being able to write about something that truly piques your interest will make the brainstorming, writing, and reviewing of your essay that much more intriguing for you (and will likely speed up the process as well!). 

Consider Options

Additionally (this goes for both prompt and no-prompt groups), make sure you have multiple topics to choose from! This will go a long way during the brainstorming and writing process – sometimes, it’s easy to start writing, thinking you’ll have a lot to write about but face a block along the way without having another topic to fall back on. Keeping more than one topic at hand, with a basic outline of what you could discuss, will help ensure you’ll move forward quickly and not get burnt out during the process as quickly!

Writing topics to guide your thinking

Video: How to Write an Argumentative Essay - Thesis Statements and Paragraphs

When it comes to thinking of argumentative essay topics, there are so many different ones available at your disposal! Given the nature of argumentative writing, there is bound to be a topic that feels right for you and addresses your overarching theme and beliefs. 

With so many pressing issues we face within our society, including health, environment, and technology, stumbling upon the right topic for you is a lot easier than you think. To help push you in the right direction, though, here are a few topics that may help inspire your brainstorming and get you on your way to writing a wonderful essay!

Final thoughts

Essay intimidation is a real thing, but there are ways to overcome it! Being able to write a strong argumentative essay confidently will take you a long way once you reach college and beyond, so remember to take it step-by-step and find a topic you’re passionate about. 

If you find yourself stuck, Empowerly’s Essay Editing team is here to help you through your writer’s block and get you well on your way to writing an argumentative essay you’re proud of. Writing doesn’t have to be hard; if it is, we have your back.

Work With Empowerly Today!

Ready to turn your college admission dreams into reality? Join the 98% of students who have worked with Empowerly and been accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools. Our college counselors are the best-rated in the country and have proven to improve college admission rates by 11x. Book your FREE consultation today. 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Looking for strategies to navigate the college application process? Start with our comprehensive guide, College Application Help: 15 Tips to Help You Succeed, to get valuable advice on making your application stand out.

Also, are you curious about the nuances of college admissions decisions? Our article on What’s the Difference Between Deferred vs Waitlisted? provides clarity on these common outcomes and what they mean for your future.

Finally, if you're considering independent college counseling, read 10 Tips for Finding an Independent College Counselor to find out what to look for in a counselor who can help you achieve your college goals.

The post 300+ Best Argumentative Essay Ideas & Topics (2025) appeared first on Empowerly.

That’s why we have the perfect solution for you. Let’s explore our Common App essay examples. These will help you make college admissions stand out and show off your unique skills and experiences.

What is a common app essay?

The Common App essay is a personal statement and your primary writing sample that is a part of the Common Application, an online application platform used by over 900 colleges, universities, and colleges across the US. 

It is a crucial component of the college application process, as each institution that accepts the Common App will assess your essay to gain insights into your character, background, and potential value as a student.

Video: The Best Way to Start & End a College Essay in 2024! | Tips for Common App and Supplementals

This is your opportunity to make a compelling personal statement to admissions officers at schools that use the Common App. When you log into your Common App account and navigate to the "Writing" section, you'll be presented with a list of seven essay prompts and detailed directions for completing each. One of the seven popular app essay prompts requires you to write college essays between 250 and 650 words long.

This statement is intended to assist you in identifying your strengths, interests, and experiences. If your topic addresses the prompt, you can talk about almost anything. It is also open in terms of style and storyline.

Keep in mind that some institutions may require additional essays along with the Common App essay, so be sure to review the specific requirements for each school you're applying to.

What are some common app essay examples?

Video: Stanford Students Reveal What They Wrote Their Common App Essays About | Open Up

The process of writing your college essays can be challenging. Luckily, many college admissions essay examples will help inspire your work and give you confidence as you enter the next step in your educational journey.

The “Why Us” App Essay

This essay asks students to explain why they are interested in attending a specific university or college. Through this essay, students can highlight their unique qualities and explain why they would be a good fit for the school they are applying to.

Sample #1

Sample Answer from AFSA by Francesca Kelly:  “I did everything I was supposed to do. I planted long, sinewy aquarium plants. I obsessively checked the temperature and the pH of the water. I created small refuges by piling rocks in the corner of the tank so that crevices formed. Yet, for three years, I was left disappointed. Now, just this week, my hard work paid off: my pair of firemouth cichlids produced fry, filling my aquarium with dozens of tiny slivers darting here and there. This, my first successful attempt at creating the conditions necessary for spawning, marks the highlight of my years as a tropical fish hobbyist.

When I read that Wonderful College’s marine biology program includes an aquarium management minor, I jumped up from my desk with excitement. My interest in ichthyology extends from the theoretical and research components to the practical: I love maintaining aquariums. I will enthusiastically register for Wonderful College’s classes “Brackish Water Species” and “Rescuing Our Coral Reefs.” I have already read Professor Anthony Pescatore’s book, The Fish Hobbyist’s Bible, and I look forward to taking part in his aquarium club. I’m also excited about field trips to the John D. Pickering Aquarium downtown.”

In addition, I hope to take advantage of the marine biology study abroad program to Sumatra where I can observe unique species found nowhere else. For these reasons and many others, I’m certain Wonderful College is the optimal place to continue expanding my knowledge in the field of marine biology and ichthyology.”

Why This Essay Works?

This essay effectively connects the student's passion for tropical fish and aquarium management with specific offerings at Wonderful College. The vivid opening anecdote showcases the student's long-term commitment and recent success in breeding firemouth cichlids, grabbing the reader's attention and setting the stage for their enthusiasm for the college's marine biology program.

The essay seamlessly transitions into discussing specific courses, professors, extracurricular opportunities, and study abroad programs that align with the student's interests. By demonstrating a thorough understanding of the university's offerings and expressing genuine excitement for participating in them, the student crafts a compelling narrative that highlights their fit with Wonderful College.

Prospective students can learn from this example by showcasing their passions, researching specific offerings at their target universities, and clearly connecting their interests with the available opportunities.

Sample #2

Sample Answer from "Sustainable Future" by Liam Nguyen: "As a passionate environmentalist, I have always been drawn to the idea of sustainable living and the protection of our planet's resources. When I discovered that Greenville University offers a unique program in Environmental Studies with a focus on urban sustainability, I knew it was the perfect fit for me.

Greenville's commitment to creating a greener future aligns perfectly with my own values and aspirations. The opportunity to learn from renowned faculty members such as Professor Samantha Torres, whose groundbreaking research on urban ecology has been published in numerous journals, would be an incredible honor. 

Additionally, the university's partnerships with local environmental organizations and its dedication to community outreach demonstrate a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the world. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to this mission while developing the skills and knowledge necessary to become a leader in the field of sustainable urban development."

Why This Essay Works?

This essay effectively demonstrates the student's passion for environmentalism and sustainable living, while also showcasing their knowledge of Greenville University's specific programs and initiatives. By mentioning a specific faculty member and her research, the student displays a genuine interest in the university and its academic offerings. 

Additionally, the essay highlights the student's alignment with the university's values and their desire to contribute to its mission of creating a greener future. Prospective students can learn from this example by conducting thorough research on their target universities, identifying specific programs, faculty, and initiatives that align with their interests and goals, and demonstrating how they plan to contribute to the university's community and mission.

Video: 6 Common App Essay Mistakes To Avoid | i've edited 50+ essays

The “Diversity” App Essay

A college or university asks students to elaborate on how they plan to contribute to diversity in their student body. Students are encouraged to share their experiences and cultural backgrounds through this essay.

Sample #1

Sample Answer from Scribbed by Kirsten Courault: “The smell of the early morning dew and the welcoming whinnies of my family’s horses are some of my most treasured childhood memories. To this day, our farm remains so rural that we do not have broadband access, and we’re too far away from the closest town for the postal service to reach us.

Going to school regularly was always a struggle: between the unceasing demands of the farm and our lack of connectivity, it was hard to keep up with my studies. Despite being a voracious reader, avid amateur chemist, and active participant in the classroom, emergencies and unforeseen events at the farm meant that I had a lot of unexcused absences.

Although it had challenges, my upbringing taught me resilience, the value of hard work, and the importance of family. Staying up all night to watch a foal being born, successfully saving the animals from a minor fire, and finding ways to soothe a nervous mare afraid of thunder have led to an unbreakable family bond.

Our farm is my family’s birthright and our livelihood, and I am eager to learn how to ensure the farm’s financial and technological success for future generations. In college, I am looking forward to joining a chapter of Future Farmers of America and studying agricultural business to carry my family’s legacy forward.” 

Why This Essay Works?

This essay effectively showcases the student's unique background and how it has shaped their values, character, and future aspirations. By vividly describing life on a rural farm, the student demonstrates their resilience, passion for learning, and strong work ethic in the face of challenges such as limited access to broadband and difficulties attending school regularly. 

The specific examples of staying up all night to watch a foal being born and saving animals from a fire illustrate the valuable life lessons they have learned and the strong family bonds they have formed.

Moreover, the student effectively connects their background and values to their future goals, expressing a desire to study agricultural business and join the Future Farmers of America organization. This demonstrates a clear sense of purpose and a commitment to using their education to ensure the success and continuity of their family's farm. 

Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on how their unique experiences have shaped their character, values, and aspirations, and by connecting their background to their future goals to craft compelling essays that showcase their diversity and potential to contribute to the college community.

Sample #2

Sample Answer from "Embracing Diversity" by Aaliyah Patel: "Growing up as a first-generation Indian-American, I often found myself navigating between two distinct cultures. At home, I was immersed in the vibrant traditions, languages, and customs of my parents' homeland, while at school, I sought to fit in with my peers and embrace the American way of life. This constant balancing act was not always easy, but it taught me the value of diversity and the importance of embracing one's unique identity.

As I grew older, I began to appreciate the richness that my multicultural background brought to my life. I realized that my experiences and perspective could contribute to a more inclusive and understanding society. This realization inspired me to become actively involved in my high school's Diversity Club, where I worked with students from various backgrounds to promote cultural awareness and celebrate our differences.

One of the most impactful initiatives I led was organizing a school-wide Diversity Day, which featured performances, workshops, and discussions aimed at fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diverse tapestry of our student body. Seeing the positive response from my classmates and teachers reinforced my belief in the power of embracing diversity and creating spaces where everyone feels valued and respected.

I am excited to continue my journey of promoting diversity and inclusion at Columbia University. With its vibrant multicultural community and commitment to social justice, Columbia offers the perfect environment for me to grow as a leader and advocate for positive change. 

I look forward to contributing my unique perspective and experiences to the campus community while learning from and collaborating with students from all walks of life. Together, I believe we can work towards building a more inclusive and equitable world."

Why This Essay Works

This essay powerfully illustrates the student's personal growth and commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion. By sharing her experience as a first-generation Indian-American navigating between two cultures, Aaliyah demonstrates how her unique background has shaped her values and perspective. Her story resonates with admissions officers looking for students who can contribute to a diverse campus community.

Moreover, the essay highlights Aaliyah's leadership skills and initiative in organizing a school-wide Diversity Day event. This concrete example showcases her ability to turn her passion for diversity into meaningful action that positively impacts her community. By expressing her excitement to continue this work at Columbia University, Aaliyah demonstrates her potential to contribute to the university's vibrant multicultural community and commitment to social justice. 

Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on their own experiences with diversity, highlighting their leadership roles in promoting inclusion, and connecting their passion to their target university's values and community.

Video: how to write your ENTIRE common app essay (step by step guide)

The "Challenges" App Essay

The “challenges” common app essay example asks students to explain a challenge they have faced, how they overcame it, and how they applied what they learned to their daily lives. Students can share their personal stories and illustrate their resilience through this essay.

Sample #1

Sample Answer from Essaymaster by Esme: “Ten minutes before my orchestra and I were due to perform what would be my first symphony, our conductor called us into the wings of the stage for a pep talk. He told us how hard we had all worked, and I could tell that he was struggling to say something that would truly inspire a group of excited twelve and thirteen year olds. After about six minutes of clichés, he looked at his watch and hurriedly delivered his closing line: “One day, you’ll reach a point where you don’t get nervous anymore.” 

A point where you don’t get nervous anymore. 

That night, I embarked on a mission to find that point. I’ve performed at concert halls, churches, and venues all over the U.K. I’ve played as a soloist and as part of an ensemble to packed audiences. I’ve auditioned for seats in orchestras and for conservatories. I’ve performed at examinations on three different instruments. And yet, this point eludes me, the point at which I no longer feel my own anxiety, worries, and doubts about the performance I am about to give. I have yet to reach this magical and amazing place. And recently, I decided to stop looking. 

I gave up my quest for this “point” during a concert with my orchestra. We were performing a piece by Debussy, one I had fallen in love with as soon as I played it. I was the first-chair oboist, and toward the end of the piece is an oboe solo; completely exposed, extremely difficult to play, and powerful enough to render the entire performance either incredible or mediocre. Needless to say, I was so nervous that I was sure that members of the audience could hear my frantic breathing onstage as we drew closer to the solo, measure by measure. As I took a breath to begin playing, I closed my eyes and thought of all hours I had practiced, all tiny details I needed to remember while playing, all of the amazing performances I had heard. I thought of how transcendent and haunting I wanted it to sound, how I wanted every member of the audience to freeze and just listen. And I played it. Every note sounded exactly as I imagined it, and every pitch released another burst of adrenaline in my body. As the solo came to a close, the entire orchestra launched into the finale, filling the concert hall with a sound so rich and powerful I felt that I was going to burst. As I sustained the last note of the piece with the 80 other musicians on stage, I thought, “Why would you ever want to reach a point without nerves, when overcoming nervousness delivers so much?” 

I stopped looking for a place without anxiety because I realized that this “point” was really just code for a place of apathy. I thought I was looking for a state of being in which I would be entirely professional and calm, but I discovered that it is the on-edge feelings and challenges that sharpen me and make my performance worthwhile, and the wide range of emotions that make a performance incredible. I am convinced that this is true of life in general, and whether I’m swimming in a race, completely in tune with my environment, taking a test where I feel confident and prepared, or playing my instruments in performance; I never forget that I am in a race, an exam, or a performance, and the result reflects hours of preparation and hard work. In music and in life it is important to recognize and remember that while a place of serenity and competence seems appealing, to reach it would render every aspect of life mundane, numb, and ordinary. By contrast, pushing oneself to do better, to play better, to be better makes hard-earned accomplishments and experiences memorable. And if the price for excellence is a little anxiety, I am more than willing to pay it.” 

Why This Essay Works

This essay is a powerful reflection on the student's journey to understand the role of anxiety and nervousness in their musical performances. The vivid opening anecdote sets the stage for the student's quest to find a point where they no longer feel nervous, and the series of specific examples demonstrates their dedication to their craft. 

The turning point comes during a solo performance of a piece by Debussy, where the student realizes that embracing nerves and challenges is what makes a performance truly remarkable. By extending this insight to life in general and concluding that a little anxiety is a price worth paying for excellence, the student demonstrates a mature and introspective perspective on personal growth and achievement. 

The essay's structure effectively conveys the student's journey of self-discovery, and its introspective and honest tone serves as a model for how students can convey their unique voice and personality through their writing. Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on their own experiences with challenges and personal growth, using specific anecdotes to illustrate their insights, and connecting their realizations to a broader perspective on life and success.

Sample #2

Sample Answer from "Overcoming Adversity" by Marcus Thompson: "As I stood at the starting line of my first cross-country race, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. I had trained hard for this moment, pushing myself to run faster and longer distances than I ever had before. However, as the race began and I settled into my pace, I suddenly felt a sharp pain in my right knee. Every step became increasingly painful, but I was determined to finish the race.

Crossing the finish line was a bittersweet moment. I was proud of my accomplishment but knew that something was wrong with my knee. After visiting a doctor, I received the devastating news that I had a torn meniscus and would need surgery. The recovery process was long and challenging, filled with physical therapy sessions and the frustration of not being able to run.

Despite the setback, I refused to let this injury define me. I channeled my energy into my studies and discovered a new passion for writing. I joined the school newspaper and poured my heart into every article, finding joy in sharing stories and perspectives with my peers. Through this experience, I learned that challenges can often lead to unexpected opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

As my knee healed and I gradually returned to running, I approached the sport with a new mindset. I no longer focused solely on competition but rather on the joy of pushing myself to be the best version of myself. I learned to listen to my body, to rest when needed, and to celebrate every small victory along the way. 

Overcoming this challenge taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of maintaining a positive outlook in the face of adversity. These lessons have served me well not only in running but in all aspects of my life, and I know they will continue to guide me as I pursue my future goals."

Why This Essay Works

This essay effectively demonstrates the student's ability to overcome adversity and find personal growth in the face of a challenging situation. The vivid opening immediately engages the reader, and the honest reflection on the difficulties of the recovery process showcases the student's vulnerability and resilience. 

By highlighting their adaptability and positive outlook in channeling energy into a new passion for writing, the student demonstrates maturity and a growth mindset. The student's shift in perspective towards running, focusing on personal growth and listening to their body, exhibits a healthy approach to overcoming challenges. 

The essay concludes by emphasizing the broader impact of the lessons learned, showing how the student's personal growth has prepared them for future challenges. Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on their own experiences with overcoming adversity, highlighting the personal growth and insights gained, and demonstrating how these lessons have shaped their character and goals.

Video: 5 common app essay mistakes to stop doing, like, yesterday

The “Community” App Essay

In the essay portion of the application, students are asked to share how they have made a difference in their community, whether through volunteer work, mentoring, or other activities. For this essay, students will be able to display their leadership qualities and commitment to service to others.

Sample #1

Sample Answer from Baylor University: “Since getting involved in helping the homeless, I learned that for a time one of my relatives was homeless. When you have a house it’s easy to take it for granted, but all it takes is some bad luck for you to lose it. This is why I feel it’s so important that we all try to help those who have no home to go to.

As hard as it was to motivate others to volunteer and help out with our fundraiser, it was worth it in the end. We raised over $1,000 for the hurricane victims. Now when we see news coverage of that terrible disaster at least we know that we have done our small part to help. 

The reward for being a coach has nothing to do with winning games. The reward is seeing everyone working as a team and enjoying the game. Win or lose, as coach you’re always proud after each game.”

Why this essay works

This essay effectively showcases the student's commitment to serving their community and the personal growth they experienced through their involvement. By sharing the revelation that a relative was homeless, the student demonstrates empathy and a deeper understanding of the importance of helping others. 

The essay also highlights the student's leadership skills and determination in organizing a fundraiser for hurricane victims, despite the challenges faced in motivating others to volunteer. Furthermore, the student's reflection on the rewards of being a coach emphasizes the value they place on teamwork and the joy of the game, rather than solely focusing on winning. 

This insight demonstrates maturity and a strong sense of character. Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on their own experiences in serving their community, highlighting the personal growth and lessons learned, and showcasing their leadership skills and values.

Sample #2

Sample Answer from "ServingCommunity" by Emily Nguyen: "Growing up in a tight-knit Vietnamese community, I witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by many immigrant families. Language barriers, cultural differences, and limited access to resources often hindered their ability to thrive in their new home. Recognizing the need for support, I decided to take action and co-founded a volunteer organization dedicated to assisting immigrant families in my community.

Our organization, "Bridging Cultures," focuses on providing English language classes, cultural orientation workshops, and mentoring programs to help immigrant families navigate their new environment. As a co-founder and lead volunteer, I have had the privilege of working directly with families, understanding their unique needs, and tailoring our programs to best support them.

One of the most rewarding experiences has been witnessing the progress and empowerment of the families we serve. I remember working with a single mother who had recently arrived from Vietnam with her two young children. When we first met, she was struggling to communicate in English and felt overwhelmed by the challenges of adapting to a new culture. Over the course of several months, I worked closely with her, teaching her English, helping her navigate the school system, and connecting her with local resources. Seeing her confidence grow and her children thrive in school has been an incredible joy and reinforces the importance of the work we do.

Through my involvement with "Bridging Cultures," I have gained a deeper appreciation for the resilience and strength of immigrant families. I have learned the value of compassion, patience, and the power of community in effecting positive change. As I look to the future, I am committed to continuing my work with immigrant communities and advocating for policies that promote inclusivity and equality. My experiences have shaped my desire to pursue a career in social work, where I can continue to make a difference in the lives of others and contribute to building a more just and equitable society."

Why This Essay Works

This essay effectively demonstrates the student's deep commitment to serving their community and the significant impact they have made through their volunteer work. The student's leadership and initiative are evident through the co-founding of "Bridging Cultures" and their hands-on involvement in providing support to immigrant families. 

The specific example of working with a single mother and her children showcases the student's dedication, compassion, and the tangible difference they have made in the lives of others. Moreover, the essay highlights the student's personal growth, the valuable lessons they have learned, and their strong sense of social responsibility. 

By connecting their experiences to their future goals and aspirations in social work, the student demonstrates a clear sense of purpose and direction, making the essay compelling and memorable. Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on their own community service experiences, providing specific examples of their impact, discussing personal growth and lessons learned, and connecting these experiences to their future goals.

The "Extra-Curricular Activities" App Essay

Students are asked to discuss their involvement in extracurricular activities outside of school and how they have helped them develop as a person in the “extra-curricular activities” common app essay example. As part of this essay, students showcase their interests and talents outside of academics.

Sample #1

Sample Answers from Prompt by Brad Schiller: “I couldn’t believe it. My soccer team was discussing whether or not to schedule an extra practice during the upcoming long weekend. “Of course, yes,” I was thinking. But, shockingly, the room was not with me. A quick consensus formed around no added practice. It was my tipping point — I finally saw that I needed to convey to this team that settling for mediocre was not an option, and that none of us would regret doing what it takes to win.”

Why This Essay Works

This essay effectively showcases the student's leadership skills and their unwavering commitment to excellence. The opening anecdote immediately draws the reader in, presenting a relatable situation that highlights the student's unique perspective and drive. By expressing their disbelief at the team's decision and their realization that they needed to take action, the student demonstrates a strong sense of initiative and a willingness to challenge the status quo.

The essay's concise and powerful language conveys the student's passion and determination to inspire their team to strive for greatness. The concluding statement, emphasizing that "none of us would regret doing what it takes to win," underscores the student's leadership abilities and their belief in the importance of hard work and dedication. 

Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on moments when they have taken initiative, showcased leadership, and promoted a strong work ethic within a team or group setting. By crafting a compelling narrative that highlights these qualities, students can effectively demonstrate their potential to contribute to their chosen college community.

Sample #2

Sample Answer from "Debate and Leadership" by Rashid Patel: "As I stepped up to the podium, my heart raced with a mix of excitement and nervousness. It was the final round of the state debate championship, and I was representing my high school in the most important debate of my career thus far. Months of research, preparation, and practice had led to this moment, and I was determined to make my team and school proud.

Debate has been an integral part of my high school experience, not only shaping my academic and intellectual growth but also fostering my leadership skills. As team captain, I've had the privilege of guiding and mentoring younger students, helping them develop their public speaking abilities and critical thinking skills. Seeing their confidence grow as they learned to construct compelling arguments and articulate their thoughts clearly has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my involvement in debate.

Beyond the debate room, I've sought to apply the lessons learned through debate to other areas of my life. As student body president, I've utilized the communication and problem-solving skills honed through debate to bridge gaps between students and administration, advocating for changes that improve the overall school experience for my peers. From successfully lobbying for healthier cafeteria options to organizing school-wide events that promote inclusivity and school spirit, I've seen firsthand the power of effective communication and leadership in driving positive change.

As I reflect on my high school journey, I am grateful for the opportunities debate has provided me to grow as a student, leader, and individual. The skills I have developed – the ability to think critically, communicate persuasively, and lead with empathy and understanding – are invaluable assets that I will carry with me throughout college and beyond. I am excited to continue exploring new avenues for growth and leadership in the future, knowing that the foundation built through debate will serve me well in any path I choose to pursue."

Why This Essay Works

This essay effectively highlights the student's dedication to debate and the significant impact it has had on their personal and academic growth. By opening with a vivid description of the state debate championship, the student immediately engages the reader and sets the stage for discussing their passion for debate. The essay emphasizes the student's leadership role as team captain and their commitment to mentoring younger students, demonstrating their ability to guide and inspire others.

Moreover, the student effectively connects the skills gained through debate to their leadership roles outside the debate room. By discussing their achievements as student body president, the student showcases their ability to apply the lessons learned through debate to effect positive change in their school community. 

The essay concludes by reflecting on the enduring value of the skills developed through debate, demonstrating the student's self-awareness and forward-thinking perspective. Prospective students can learn from this example by highlighting their own extra-curricular passions, discussing the transferable skills gained, and reflecting on how these experiences have shaped their personal growth and future goals.

The "Personal Statement" App Essay 

This is your chance to explain yourself to admissions officers and tell them more about who you are, not just what you’re studying. This type of essay allows you to discuss anything you think will help admissions officers understand you, whether it’s your background, family, hobbies, interests, achievements, or goals.

Sample Answer from Tufts University by Kaycee Conover: “On one hot night in a dark room at the heart of Boston, I became friends with 19,580 people in one single moment. We had all journeyed to the TD Garden from wherever we were in our lives to see Tom Petty perform. I knew his music because my mother had shared it with me. It meant something to her and it meant something to me. His music meant something different to every person in that room and all those meanings, all infinite number of them, wrapped around the music notes and existed in harmony on that July night. I had to close my eyes. It was as if I could hear the heartbeats of every person in that room, pulsing along with the rhythm of the music. By sharing his music, Tom Petty gave me a striking awareness of 19,580 people that live and feel alongside each other. Tom Petty will live as long as people feel.

Lights flashing beyond my eyelids, I could feel what it was like to live more lives than just my own. Tom Petty’s art described his life, but it has weaved its way into those of so many others. My own, my mother’s then and when she was my age, and all the strangers around me who didn’t seem so strange anymore. We all have to go through our own lives and our own challenges, but just because we have our own lessons to learn doesn’t mean we are alone. I looked into the smiles of the crowd, the dancing arms and carefree yes, and realised we were all feeling something of our own. But we were feeling it all together.

With the shared heart of others, I can travel vertically through time and horizontally through space. I long to make connections and there are no boundaries that limit how this can be done, not even time and not even space. Imagine trying to count how many people have ever been inspired by the Beatles! Music is an honesty that you embrace more than escape. I sit in front of my piano for hours, copying the rhythm of until it feels right. I’ll never tire of hearing another tell me how they’re feeling without using any words at all and letting it become part of me. You can’t hide from your feelings when someone else is telling them to you.

And so I have become a curator of feeling. I am always listening, collecting the art of others. I have stared at paintings until they stared back at me. I cry while I watch almost every film, sometimes just because the characters are nice to each other. I’m as moved by the narrative of my old American Girl Doll books as I am by Dickens. It’s all swirls of feelings, of lessons from others that mirror those you need to learn yourself. Art embodies empathy and empathy has become too easy to lose touch with. Art is the same world seen from a different heart. I look at characters or creators and think, “How did you become the way you are?” I can look at others and think the same thing. And I have the chance the ask them.

Tom Petty did not write “Breakdown” just for me. Hard Promises comforts more than just me. I cannot live life from just my own perspective. Art exists in everyone. I embrace my hour-long commute to school as a chance to start conversations through the life that flows from my speakers, using old tunes to understand the world through my neighbors as we talk of our favourite colours or the abstract nature of time. My dad doesn’t seem so distant when we talk about our mutual love for The Band. This is how our moments are made. This is how we find the music that surrounds all of us, all in each other.”

Why This Essay Works

This essay is a masterful example of how a personal experience can be transformed into a profound reflection on the human condition. The writer's vivid description of the shared experience at the Tom Petty concert immediately draws the reader in, creating a sense of unity and shared emotion. The essay then delves into the power of music and art to connect people across time and space, transcending personal boundaries and experiences.

The writer's introspective and philosophical approach to the topic demonstrates a mature and insightful perspective on the role of art in fostering empathy and understanding. By reflecting on how art allows them to "travel vertically through time and horizontally through space," the writer showcases their ability to think deeply and abstractly about the world around them. The essay's poetic language and metaphorical imagery create a rich and engaging narrative that leaves a lasting impact on the reader. 

Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on their own personal experiences with art, music, or literature, and exploring how these experiences have shaped their worldview and connected them with others. By crafting a reflective and insightful essay that showcases their unique perspective, students can stand out in the admissions process and demonstrate their potential to contribute to the intellectual and cultural community of their chosen college.

Sample #2

Sample Answer from "The Power of Storytelling" by Maria Rodriguez: "Growing up, I was the child who always had her nose buried in a book. From the moment I learned to read, I discovered the magic of storytelling and the power of words to transport me to different worlds, lives, and experiences. As I devoured book after book, I began to realize that stories were more than just entertainment; they were a way to understand the world and my place in it.

In high school, my love for stories led me to join the theater club, where I discovered the joy of bringing characters to life on stage. As I stepped into the shoes of different characters, from the tragic heroine of a Shakespearean play to the quirky lead in a modern comedy, I found myself developing a deeper sense of empathy and understanding for perspectives different from my own. Through theater, I learned the importance of active listening, collaboration, and the power of storytelling to create meaningful connections with others.

This realization inspired me to start a storytelling club at my local community center, where I worked with children from diverse backgrounds to help them develop their own voices and share their unique stories. Each week, as I watched these young storytellers grow in confidence and creativity, I was reminded of the transformative power of stories to empower individuals and build communities.

As I look to the future, I am excited to continue exploring the art of storytelling in all its forms – from literature and theater to film and beyond. I believe that stories have the power to bridge divides, promote understanding, and inspire change. In college, I hope to study comparative literature and theater, delving deeper into the ways in which stories shape our understanding of the world and our place in it. Ultimately, my goal is to use my love for storytelling to make a positive impact on the world, one story at a time."

Why This Essay Works

This essay effectively demonstrates the writer's passion for storytelling and its impact on their personal growth and aspirations. By beginning with a simple yet relatable anecdote about their childhood love for reading, the writer immediately establishes a connection with the reader. 

The essay then seamlessly transitions into the writer's experiences in theater, highlighting how stepping into different characters' shoes has deepened their empathy and understanding of diverse perspectives.

Moreover, the writer's initiative in starting a storytelling club showcases their leadership skills and commitment to using their passion for storytelling to make a positive difference in their community. By sharing the impact of this experience on the young storytellers they worked with, the writer demonstrates the transformative power of stories to empower individuals and build connections.

The essay concludes with a clear vision for the future, outlining the writer's academic and personal goals related to storytelling. By expressing their desire to study comparative literature and theater and use their skills to make a positive impact on the world, the writer demonstrates a sense of purpose and motivation that is likely to resonate with admissions officers. 

Prospective students can learn from this example by reflecting on their own passions and experiences, and how they have used them to make a difference in their communities or to develop a clearer sense of purpose for the future.

Don’t know where to start? We can help

Video: 5 College Essay Topics to Avoid (And What to Write About Instead)

Writing a college application essay can be difficult. You want to stand out from the crowd but need to know where or how to get started.

Empowerly is an online platform that helps students write outstanding college application essays by providing them with expert advice and examples of successful essays written. Ready to turn your college admission dreams into reality? Join the 98% of students who have worked with Empowerly and been accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools. Our college counselors are the best-rated in the country and have proven to improve college admission rates by 11x.  Book your FREE consultation today. 

Additional Resources

Need more essay ideas and topics? Check out our Top 40 College Essay Ideas and Topics.

Or if you’re looking for guidance on your college essay, our 12 Tips for Finding the Best College Essay Coach (2024) will help you find the perfect mentor to guide you through the writing process.

And for those seeking comprehensive assistance with their entire college application, don't miss our College Application Help: 15 Tips to Help You Succeed, which covers everything from essays to interviews and beyond.

The post 12 Best & Brilliant Common App Essay Examples for 2025  appeared first on Empowerly.

Columbia Short Responses

Columbia University is one of the older private universities, founded in 1754. It has one of the oldest engineering schools in the US. 

In addition to engineering, Columbia is also well-known for its Biological and Biomedical Sciences and Social Science faculties. Here we provide some tips and traps for responding to the Columbia short responses and questions.

In order to get a full sense of each applicant beyond his or her transcripts and test scores, Columbia University pays attention to short responses. These prompts, which are listed below, are typically the same from year to year. That means you can start preparing early!

What single activity listed in the activity section of your Common Application are you most proud of and why? (150 words or less)

Keep it simple. Choose a major activity – one that you did not focus on in the Common Application major essay and write about it. Keep it to 1-2 paragraphs and focus on what it is, how long you have done it, why it is important to you, and what it means to you. The last two elements of this response are the most important and usually neglected. They just want to know which of the activities in your activity list is the most important to you if you had to choose one.

The Lists

• List the titles of the required readings from courses during the school year or summer that you enjoyed most in the past year. (150 words or less)
• List the titles of the books you read for pleasure that you enjoyed most in the past year. (150 words or less)  
• List the titles of the print, electronic publications, and websites you read regularly. (150 words or less)  
• List the titles of the films, concerts, shows, exhibits, lectures, and other entertainments you enjoyed most in the past year. (150 words or less)

For all lists: Columbia is known for its Core Curriculum, an intensive set of classes focused on fostering debate and pushing the boundaries of intellectual breadth. This prompt evaluates you against this backdrop. 

The strongest responses keep in mind questions like the following: What kind of exposure have you had and how does it inform your understanding of the world? What would your contribution be in class? 

You should be able to speak to the readings during the interview process – there is no right number of books for this prompt.

Tips to Answer:

• Choose a meaningful activity that showcases your personal growth or aligns with your passions.
• Focus on what the activity means to you and how it has impacted your values or goals.
• Be concise yet reflective; clearly explain the significance of the activity without over-explaining.

Common Pitfalls:

• Repeating activities or experiences already heavily featured in your Common Application essay.
• Providing a surface-level explanation that doesn’t convey the activity’s true importance.
• Focusing only on achievements instead of personal impact or growth.

Please tell us what you find most appealing about Columbia and why. (300 words or less)

This is a very straightforward “why us” question that requires research on aspects specific to Columbia that match your interests. 

Show that you have done some research on academic programs, professors, courses, clubs, or traditions, and mention your extracurricular activities that prove your interest in those specific Columbia areas. 

It is important to talk about both Columbia and why you would be a good fit. In addition, don’t focus on how much you want to be in New York City – the focus should remain on Columbia.  

Tips to Answer:

• Highlight specific programs, professors, or traditions unique to Columbia.
• Show how Columbia’s offerings align with your academic goals, values, or passions.
• Make your response personal by connecting Columbia’s resources to your past experiences and future aspirations.

Common Pitfalls:

• Mentioning general attributes like “prestige” or “location” without tying them to your goals.
• Over-focusing on New York City instead of Columbia itself.
• Writing a generic response that could apply to multiple universities.

Video: What does Columbia look for in a personal essay? | Columbia Undergraduate Admissions

A hallmark of the Columbia experience is being able to learn and thrive in an equitable and inclusive community with a wide range of perspectives. Tell us about an aspect of your own perspective, viewpoint, or lived experience that is important to you, and describe how it has shaped the way you would learn from and contribute to Columbia's diverse and collaborative community. (150 words or fewer)

Columbia values applicants who can bring unique perspectives to their inclusive campus. Reflect on a formative experience that highlights your ability to learn from others and contribute meaningfully to collaborative spaces. 

Demonstrating awareness of diversity and your role in fostering inclusion strengthens your fit for Columbia’s culture.

Tips to Answer:

• Personal Reflection: Share a specific experience or aspect of your identity that has significantly shaped your worldview.
• Community Contribution: Explain how this perspective will enable you to both learn from and add value to Columbia's inclusive environment.

Common Pitfall:

• Generalizations: Avoid vague statements; be specific about your experiences and insights.

In college/university, students are often challenged in ways that they could not predict or anticipate. It is important to us, therefore, to understand an applicant's ability to navigate through adversity. Please describe a barrier or obstacle you have faced and discuss the personal qualities, skills, or insights you have developed as a result.

(150 words or fewer)

This question evaluates resilience, adaptability, and growth through challenges. Sharing a specific obstacle and the strategies you used to overcome it highlights your problem-solving abilities. 

Emphasizing the lessons learned shows your capacity for growth and preparedness for future challenges.

Tips to Answer:

• Honest Account: Describe a genuine challenge you've encountered.
• Growth Focus: Emphasize the skills or personal qualities you developed in response to this challenge.
• Positive Outcome: Highlight how overcoming this obstacle has prepared you for future challenges.

Common Pitfall:

• Overemphasis on the Negative: While it's important to describe the obstacle, ensure the focus remains on your growth and resilience.

Why are you interested in attending Columbia University? We encourage you to consider the aspect(s) that you find unique and compelling about Columbia. (150 words or fewer)

Columbia seeks applicants with a genuine understanding of its unique offerings. Highlight specific programs, faculty, or opportunities that align with your academic and personal aspirations. 

Connecting these features to your goals demonstrates both research and alignment with Columbia’s values.

Tips to Answer:

• Specificity: Mention particular programs, professors, or opportunities at Columbia that align with your goals.
• Authenticity: Express genuine enthusiasm for Columbia's offerings.
• Alignment: Demonstrate how Columbia's unique aspects resonate with your academic and personal aspirations.

Common Pitfall:

• Generic Responses: Avoid clichés or general statements that could apply to any university.

What attracts you to your preferred areas of study at Columbia College or Columbia Engineering?

(150 words or fewer)

This question invites you to articulate your passion for your chosen field of study. Explain how your academic interests developed and how Columbia’s programs will help you pursue them. 

Addressing specific resources or opportunities shows alignment between your goals and Columbia’s strengths.

Tips to Answer:

• Passion and Interest: Share the origins of your interest in your chosen field.
• Future Goals: Explain how Columbia's programs will help you achieve your career objectives.
• Program Alignment: Highlight specific courses, faculty, or resources that make Columbia the ideal place for your studies.

Common Pitfall:

• Lack of Research: Ensure you've thoroughly researched Columbia's offerings to provide detailed and accurate reasons for your choice.

Video: Choosing Columbia: Why We Made the Decision

How Columbia Evaluates Responses

Columbia University evaluates short responses to understand applicants beyond their academic achievements. These responses are assessed on several key criteria that align with the university's core values and expectations:

1. Intellectual Curiosity

Columbia values students who exhibit a genuine passion for learning and the ability to engage deeply with ideas. Your responses should reflect an eagerness to explore complex concepts and showcase the breadth of your intellectual interests. This is particularly important in the lists section, where your choices demonstrate your exposure to diverse fields and ideas.

2. Cultural and Personal Awareness

Columbia’s commitment to cultivating global citizens means they seek applicants with an understanding of themselves and the world around them. Your responses should reflect meaningful experiences, diverse perspectives, or a willingness to engage with different cultures and ideas.

3. Alignment with Columbia’s Academic Mission

The university looks for students who align with its unique offerings, such as the Core Curriculum—a cornerstone of Columbia’s academic philosophy. Highlighting your enthusiasm for this approach or specific programs shows that you understand and resonate with Columbia’s educational model.

4. Authenticity and Depth

Columbia values responses that provide genuine insight into who you are. Superficial or overly polished answers can come across as insincere. Instead, focus on offering thoughtful, introspective answers that convey your individuality and the personal significance of your experiences.

5.Clarity and Precision

Given the strict word limits, clear and concise communication is essential. Responses that are well-structured, grammatically correct, and succinct demonstrate your ability to articulate ideas effectively—an important skill for success at Columbia.

General Tips for Crafting Stellar Short Responses

Crafting effective short responses for Columbia University requires attention to detail and a thoughtful approach. Here are essential tips to ensure your responses stand out:

Prioritize Authenticity

Your responses should reflect your true self. Avoid writing what you think the admissions team wants to hear. Instead, focus on sharing genuine insights, experiences, and values that define you.

Be Specific and Reflective

Specificity adds credibility and depth to your responses. For example, when listing books or activities, explain why they resonate with you or how they have influenced your perspective. 

Avoid general statements that lack personal meaning.

Maintain a Cohesive Narrative

Each response should contribute to a broader narrative about who you are. While the prompts cover different aspects of your personality and interests, together they should create a unified picture of your character, goals, and values.

Demonstrate Intellectual Engagement

Highlight your curiosity and willingness to explore new ideas. Whether through your reading lists or your explanation of an activity, show that you are eager to engage with Columbia’s challenging academic environment.

Stay Within the Word Limit

Respecting the word limits demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively and concisely. Focus on clarity and precision, avoiding unnecessary fluff or overly complex language.

Proofread Thoroughly

Errors in grammar or structure can detract from the strength of your responses. Review each answer multiple times to ensure it is polished and free of mistakes. Consider having a trusted mentor or teacher provide feedback.

Video: how to get into columbia (essays, tips, etc.)

Conclusion

Navigating Columbia University's short response prompts requires a thoughtful balance of authenticity, specificity, and alignment with the university’s values. 

By demonstrating intellectual curiosity, cultural awareness, and a genuine connection to Columbia’s academic mission, applicants can craft responses that stand out. 

Remember to remain concise, reflective, and authentic, while ensuring every response contributes to a cohesive narrative that highlights your unique perspective and readiness to thrive in Columbia’s dynamic community.

Work With Us!

Ready to turn your college admission dreams into reality? Join the 98% of students who have worked with Empowerly and been accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools. Our college counselors are the best-rated in the country and have proven to improve college admission rates by 11x. Book your FREE consultation today.

Additional Resources

College Application Help: 15 Tips to Help You Succeed: This article provides essential tips to simplify your college application process. Learn how to present your strengths effectively and avoid common pitfalls.

Top 40 College Essay Ideas and Topics: Struggling to find a unique essay topic? This list offers creative and inspiring ideas to craft a compelling college essay.

The Top 25 Colleges and Universities that Accept a 3.4 GPA: Wondering where your GPA can take you? Explore this curated list of schools that value academic potential beyond the numbers.

The post Essay Scoop: How to Answer Columbia Short Responses appeared first on Empowerly.

We’re here to help you navigate the process of writing exceptional Princeton supplemental essays that can boost your chances of getting admitted.

Let’s meet Liam:

Liam has always aspired to attend Princeton University as a student-athlete. While he was passionate about sports, his academic direction was still being determined. However, his unwavering work ethic and love for sports medicine eventually led him to pursue bioengineering. Throughout high school, he devoted himself to athletics, learning essential skills such as discipline, time management, and perseverance. During the summers, he interned at a local sports clinic, where he became fascinated by the intersection of medicine and sports. This experience fueled his determination to make a significant impact at the university he would attend.

To tailor his supplemental essays to reflect his unique journey and fit for Princeton’s bioengineering program, Liam approached them with careful consideration. He emphasized his desire to impact the training and treatment of athletes through bioengineering. He mentioned specific faculty members whose research aligned with his interests and highlighted how Princeton’s state-of-the-art labs would provide the perfect environment for his studies. He detailed his role as the captain of his high school track team and his internship experiences at the sports clinic, underscoring how these activities taught him leadership, teamwork, and resilience—qualities that he believed would make him a valuable member of the Princeton community.

Liam also showcased his fascination with bioengineering, recounting his science fair projects and advanced coursework. He explained how these experiences prepared him for the challenges of Princeton’s bioengineering program. Liam articulated his vision of contributing to sports medicine research throughout his essays, and he shared his long-term goal of developing innovative treatments to enhance athlete performance and recovery, aligning his aspirations with Princeton’s commitment to groundbreaking research.

Liam’s well-crafted essays and an impressive academic and extracurricular record made a compelling case to the admissions officers. His ability to connect his personal experiences and future goals with Princeton’s offerings showcased his fit for the university. Ultimately, Liam’s hard work paid off—he received his acceptance letter and was on his way to finding his path as a student at Princeton.

Want to be more like Liam?

Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! Today, we will take an opportunity to dissect the Princeton University supplemental essays and share tips and tricks to help you write a winning essay like Liam. But before we begin, let’s start with the basics. Why are these essays so crucial?

Show Your Fit:

Princeton and its admissions committee want to understand why you are an excellent match for their institution. It’s crucial to connect any research you have done about the university, such as professors, traditions, and areas of research, to explain why you want to attend the university and why you are the best fit for the program you are applying for. This understanding will not only help you write a compelling essay but also demonstrate your genuine interest in Princeton.

Highlight Your Unique Qualities:

These essays are your chance to showcase what makes you unique beyond your grades and test scores. This can be your hobbies, passions, aspirations, or anything that makes you shine as a student and individual! Embrace this opportunity to show the admissions officers the unique perspective and value you can bring to the Princeton community.

Tell Your Story:

You can share your personal story, interests, and goals to show the admissions officers that you’re not just anybody; you’re you! Your life experience and insights have transformed you into who you are today, so highlight them! This is your chance to take control of your application and present yourself in the best light possible.

Now, let’s break down each of the Princeton supplemental essay prompts and how to tackle them.

Prompt #1: For A.B. Degree Applicants or Those Who Are Undecided

As a research institution that also prides itself on its liberal arts curriculum, Princeton allows students to explore areas across the humanities and the arts, the natural sciences, and the social sciences. What academic areas most pique your curiosity, and how do the programs offered at Princeton suit your particular interests? (Please respond in 250 words or fewer.)

In this prompt, students are being asked to explain what area of study they’re interested in and why! This is an excellent opportunity to show admissions officers your passions and aspirations, even if you don’t have a particular major to which you’re fully set on applying.

Brainstorming questions:

• What are my favorite subjects in school?
• What topics do I read about or research in my free time?
• What are my hobbies or extracurricular activities?
• Have I participated in any projects, clubs, or competitions related to my interests?
• Which academic disciplines excite me the most?
• What unique programs or departments at Princeton align with my interests?
• What interdisciplinary opportunities does Princeton offer that appeal to me?
• How can Princeton’s programs help me achieve my long-term goals?

Example for Prompt #1

“Imagine a world where Freud meets the future—where algorithms and therapy sessions that unravel the complexities of the human mind are powered by artificial intelligence. This is the intersection of psychology and computer science, and it’s where my academic curiosity ignites, blazing a trail right to Princeton’s doorstep.

In high school, I was the kid who alternated between reading Freud’s theories and coding quirky apps. My fascination with human cognition led me to deep-dive into psychology, while my love for tech saw me winning programming competitions and crafting an app to boost mental health. Then it hit me: why not merge the two? AI has the potential to revolutionize psychological research and practice, and I wanted to be at the forefront of this innovation.

Princeton’s interdisciplinary approach is an academic playground. The university’s stellar Psychology program, paired with its cutting-edge Computer Science department, is a match made in geek heaven. I want to join the Princeton Neuroscience Institute and the Center for Information Technology Policy. I envision myself contributing to groundbreaking research projects that blend AI with human behavior studies.”

Prompt #2: For B.S.E Degree Applicants

 Please describe why you are interested in studying engineering at Princeton. Include any of your experiences in or exposure to engineering and how you think the programs offered at the University suit your particular interests. (Please respond in 250 words or fewer.)

This prompt is quite straightforward—this is your time to showcase why studying engineering at Princeton is the right path for you and your aspirations! Use this opportunity to share your connections between what you love about your experiences or studies within the engineering field and how you will use the resources at Princeton to make an impact further.

Brainstorming Questions:

• Why did you choose engineering? What aspects of engineering excite you the most? When did you first realize you were interested in engineering?
• What specific areas of engineering fascinate you?
• What experiences have you had related to engineering? What competitions, internships, or volunteer work have you been involved in?
• How do you envision using your engineering education in the future?
• What specific engineering programs or departments at Princeton interest you? Are there particular professors, labs, or research centers that you are excited about?
• What unique opportunities does Princeton offer that appeal to you?

Example for Prompt #2

Picture this:

“Why do I want to study engineering at Princeton? Picture this: a kid with a LEGO obsession who traded blocks for circuit boards, dreaming of building robots that could outsmart his dog (no small feat, I assure you). My fascination with engineering started early and has since evolved into a quest to solve real-world problems with innovative solutions.

Princeton’s School of Engineering and Applied Science is the ultimate playground for my ambitions. The university’s commitment to interdisciplinary research aligns perfectly with my desire to blend mechanical engineering with computer science. I’m particularly excited about the Keller Center for Innovation in Engineering Education, where I can dive into hands-on projects that address societal challenges.”

Prompt #3:

Princeton values community and encourages students, faculty, staff, and leadership to engage in respectful conversations that can expand their perspectives and challenge their ideas and beliefs. As a prospective member of this community, reflect on how your lived experiences will impact the conversations you will have in the classroom, the dining hall, or other campus spaces. What lessons have you learned in life thus far? What will your classmates learn from you? In short, how has your lived experience shaped you?  (Please respond in 500 words or fewer.)

This is a great prompt to reflect on your personal beliefs and values, especially when moving forward into your higher education path. Entering college is the first step for many of us toward adulthood, so reflecting on your current and past experiences and how they’ll shape your time in college is undoubtedly essential! Take time to reflect on experiences you have had within your own life, at school, in your community, and so on, and think about the impact you want to make at Princeton.

Brainstorming Questions:

• What are some significant experiences that have shaped your worldview?
• Have you faced any challenges or overcome obstacles that have influenced your perspective? How did you navigate these challenges, and what did you learn from them?
• What are some pivotal moments or turning points in your life?
• How have these experiences shaped the way you view the world?
• In what ways do you hope to engage with the Princeton community?
• How do you approach conversations with people who have different beliefs or backgrounds?
• What are the most important lessons you have learned from your experiences? How have these lessons influenced your values and goals?
• What perspectives or insights can you offer to your classmates?
• How do you hope to contribute to and enrich the Princeton community?

Example for Prompt #3

“Growing up in a multicultural household, my life has been a tapestry woven with diverse perspectives and experiences. My father, a software engineer from India, and my mother, a social worker from the United States, instilled in me a deep appreciation for technological innovation and social justice. These dual influences have shaped my worldview and equipped me with a unique lens through which I approach conversations and challenges.

I envision engaging in dialogues bridging technology and social equity gaps at Princeton. In the classroom, I will draw on my experiences to challenge and expand discussions about the ethical implications of technological advancements. For instance, in a computer science course, I might raise questions about algorithmic bias and its impact on marginalized communities, encouraging my peers to consider the broader societal consequences of their work.”

Prompt #4: 

Princeton has a longstanding commitment to understanding our responsibility to society through service and civic engagement. How does your own story intersect with these ideals? (Please respond in 250 words or fewer.)

Thinking about your experiences, values, and actions that align with Princeton’s commitment to service and civic engagement will help you deeply explore your dedication to improving society. Take the time to recall moments when you actively engaged in community service, such as organizing neighborhood clean-up drives, volunteering at food banks, or leading fundraisers. Furthermore, link these reflections to Princeton’s mission to show your enthusiasm for becoming part of a community that values civic engagement. Explain how you plan to contribute to and benefit from Princeton’s resources and opportunities in this area and why attending Princeton will enable you to contribute positively to the community and beyond.

Brainstorming Questions:

• Have you participated in any community service projects? If so, what were they, and what role did you play?
• Have you ever volunteered for a cause or organization? What motivated you to get involved, and what did you learn from the experience?
• What does civic engagement mean to you personally?
• Why do you believe it’s important to give back to society?
• How do your values align with the principles of service and civic responsibility?
• How have you used your skills to benefit others or address a community need?
• Can you think of a specific problem you helped solve through civic engagement?
• How do your experiences and values connect with Princeton’s commitment to service and civic engagement?
• In what ways do you hope to continue your service and civic activities at Princeton?
• How do you envision contributing to Princeton’s community and society through your service involvement?

Example for Prompt #4

“Service and civic engagement have been cornerstones of my journey, deeply intertwined with my identity and aspirations. Growing up in a family that emphasized giving back, I was introduced to community service at an early age. My parents, active volunteers in local initiatives, instilled in me a sense of responsibility to contribute meaningfully to society.

At Princeton, I see endless opportunities to expand my engagement in service through programs like the Pace Center for Civic Engagement and initiatives such as Community Action. I am eager to collaborate with peers and faculty who share my dedication to social impact, leveraging Princeton’s resources to tackle pressing societal issues.”

Prompt #5: 

What is a new skill you would like to learn in college? (50 words or less)

This prompt is a bit different. With only 50 words to work with, tackling this may seem a little daunting. Don’t worry – Princeton’s admissions committee wants to learn more about you as a person, academic, and thinker! This is a great time to look into the future and think of everything you want to learn and accomplish as a student at Princeton. What skills do you want to know as you move through your degree?

Brainstorming questions:

• What are you passionate about or interested in exploring more deeply?
• Is there a hobby or interest you’d like to develop into a skill?

• How does this new skill align with your future career aspirations?
• Can any skills help you in your intended major or profession?

• What courses, clubs, or resources at college are available for learning this skill?
• Are there faculty members or programs at the college that can support your learning?

• Have any previous experiences sparked your interest in this new skill?
• What challenges or gaps have you identified in your current knowledge or abilities?

• How will this new skill enhance your academic, personal, or professional life?
• What do you hope to achieve by learning this skill during college?

Example for Prompt #5

“I’ve always been fascinated by technology and its potential to solve real-world problems. Learning to code will enable me to create innovative solutions and contribute to technological advancements. At Princeton, I hope to join the computer science program and work on projects that address global challenges, like climate change and healthcare.”

Prompt #6: 

What brings you joy? (50 words or less)

This question invites you to explore and share what truly brings you joy. Whether it’s a simple pleasure like video games or a profound passion like philosophy, this is your chance to reveal a personal aspect of yourself. The goal is to give admissions officers a glimpse into what makes you tick and why it matters to you. With only 50 words, focus on being concise yet impactful. Think about how this joy reflects your personality and interests, and aim to make your statement memorable and meaningful.

Brainstorming questions:

• What simple or profound thing in life brings you happiness? Examples: Playing the piano, hiking, reading, cooking, volunteering.
• What feelings or experiences does it evoke?
• How does it reflect your values or passions?
• How does this source of joy shape who you are?
• Why is it significant in your life?

Example for Prompt #5

“Creating art brings me joy. Whether painting a vibrant landscape or sketching a simple portrait, expressing myself through visual mediums fills me with peace and fulfillment.”

“Listening to classical music brings me joy because it’s a soothing escape from daily stress and a reminder of beauty in simplicity.”

“Photographing gardening brings me joy through nurturing growth and witnessing the seed’s transformation into bloom. Capturing this process through the art of timelapse is a poetic reminder of how we all flourish when nourished by what we love.”

Prompt #7: 

What song represents the soundtrack of your life at this moment? (50 words or less)

The prompt “What song represents the soundtrack of your life at this moment?” allows students to express their current emotional state, values, or life situation through a song that resonates with them. Music is profoundly influential, so how can you use it to analyze your life in this current moment? How does it explain what you might be going through, good or bad, or what thoughts and feelings you might be experiencing?

Brainstorming questions:

• What emotions or thoughts are you experiencing most strongly right now?
• Are you feeling hopeful, reflective, excited, or challenged?

• What song’s lyrics or melody resonate with your current situation?
• Is there a song you listen to often that reflects your current state of mind?

• What themes or messages does the song convey?
• How do these themes relate to your current life experience?

• How does this song capture your personal journey or current phase of life?
• What does this song mean to you personally?

• How does this song make you feel when you listen to it?
• What role does this song play in your daily life or helping you through challenges?

Example for Prompt #7:

“‘Here Comes the Sun’ by The Beatles perfectly captures my excitement and hope for college. As I begin this new chapter, the song’s message of renewal and optimism reminds me that each day brings new opportunities, no matter what came before.”

“‘Fight Song’ by Rachel Platten reflects my determination and resilience as I face new challenges and strive towards my goals. As I move through the difficulties in my life, this song has always remained a beacon of hope in my journey no matter where I may find myself.”

Here is how two students approached their Princeton supplemental essays:

10 Tips for Princeton Supplemental Essays

Before you dive into writing, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Research Thoroughly

To write a strong Princeton essay, you must first understand what makes Princeton unique and why you’re an excellent fit for the admissions spot. Start by visiting Princeton’s official website and exploring the sections about its mission, values, and academic programs. Look for information about Princeton’s commitment to public service, its focus on interdisciplinary studies, and its supportive community. This research will help you show you know what Princeton stands for and how you fit into its vision.

2. Showcase Your Fit

When explaining why you are a good fit for Princeton, focus on how your interests and goals align with what Princeton offers. Talk about specific aspects of Princeton that attract you, such as their unique programs, collaborative culture, or supportive environment. Make it clear that you’ve done your homework and understand why Princeton is the right place to thrive and contribute.

3. Be Authentic

Your essay should reflect who you are. Share personal stories and experiences that highlight your unique qualities and perspectives. Being authentic means showing your true self rather than writing what you think admissions officers want to hear. Genuine stories about your challenges and achievements will make your essay stand out.

4. Answer the Prompt Directly

Make sure your essay answers the specific prompt you are given. Understand what the prompt asks and ensure that every part of your essay is relevant to that question. Stay focused and avoid going off-topic. A clear and direct response to the prompt will make your essay more effective.

5. Use Concrete Examples

Support your points with specific examples and details to make your essay more compelling. Concrete examples help admissions officers see your achievements, passions, and challenges more clearly. Instead of general statements, use detailed stories to illustrate your experiences.

6. Connect Past Experiences to Future Goals

Show how your past experiences have shaped your future goals and how Princeton can help you achieve them. Explain how your previous experiences have influenced your career aspirations and how Princeton’s resources will support you in reaching these goals.

7. Highlight Contributions

Discuss what you will bring to the Princeton community. Talk about your interests, experiences, or skills that will benefit Princeton and make you a valuable addition to their campus. Admissions officers want to know how you will contribute to their community, so be sure to show them why you are a wonderful fit for the Princeton student body.

8. Edit and Revise

Editing is a vital part of writing your essay. Make sure your essay is clear, coherent, and free from grammatical errors. Ask for feedback from peers, teachers, or mentors to ensure your essay is polished and effective. If you need additional help, our expert Essay Editing team can help you polish your writing and set you up for success!

9. Showcase Intellectual Curiosity

Show your passion for learning by discussing books, research, or intellectual pursuits that inspire you. Highlight specific interests and how they reflect your academic passions and potential growth at Princeton!

10. Reflect on Personal Growth

Discuss experiences that have helped you grow personally and shaped your values and ambitions. Reflect on how these moments have prepared you for future challenges and influenced your goals and perspective on life.

Writing Princeton supplemental essays may seem daunting, but remember:

You’ve got this. 

By understanding what Princeton values and thoughtfully crafting your responses, you can make a strong impression on the admissions committee—still, feeling unsure? 

Don’t hesitate to seek personalized guidance on your college application journey. Our dedicated team of college admissions counselors has helped 98% of students achieve admission to the top 25 Ivy League universities. Whether you need help brainstorming ideas or refining your drafts, we’re here to support you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with our team today.

Final Thoughts

Applying to Princeton is a significant step, and your supplemental essays are crucial in showcasing who you are. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to crafting compelling essays that stand out.

Remember, the key is to be genuine and to let your unique voice and perspective shine throughout each piece. Good luck, and happy writing!

The post Breaking Down the Princeton Supplemental Essays (2025) appeared first on Empowerly.

With so many opportunities for intellectual growth, professional networking, and personal development, it’s no surprise that Cornell University has so much competition regarding college admissions. In fact, from 2014 to 2023, the number of applications has soared to 67,846 from 43,037, while the acceptances have consistently decreased each year. So, how do you stand out?

Let’s look at Mia, a high school senior who dreamed of being admitted to Cornell. She had a solid academic standing but wanted to use her essays to help showcase why she was the perfect fit for Cornell. 

She took her time brainstorming and ideation and, ultimately, wrote heartfelt essays about her multicultural upbringing and volunteer work abroad, showcasing her passion for inclusivity and global health. Her genuine reflections and alignment with Cornell’s values impressed the admissions committee. Mia was thrilled to receive her acceptance letter to Cornell University, knowing her authentic story had made all the difference.

Want to be more like Mia?

We’re here to help. Today, we’re going to take an opportunity to dissect the Cornell University supplemental essays and provide you with some insights and opportunities to help write your strongest pieces possible for admission. Before we begin, you might wonder why there is so much emphasis on the essay pieces for the Cornell application.

Why Are the Cornell supplemental essays so important?

The Cornell supplemental essays are one of your application’s most exciting and personal aspects. These essays provide a unique opportunity to showcase your personality, achievements, and fit for Cornell. Unlike other parts of your application, these essays offer admissions officers deeper insights into who you are beyond your grades and test scores. This is your chance to show them your passions, motivations, and how you will contribute to the Cornell community!

Now, let’s break down each of the Cornell supplemental essay prompts and how to tackle them.

Essay Prompt for All Applicants:

When applying, each student must answer an overarching prompt. It’s important to think critically about approaching this based on your academic, professional, and social experiences, as your responses will be evaluated and ultimately accepted or rejected based on the entire applicant pool.

Prompt:

In the aftermath of the U.S. Civil War, Ezra Cornell wrote, ‘I would found an institution where any person can find instruction in any study.’ For over 150 years, Cornell University has remained deeply committed to Ezra’s vision. Explain how your life experiences will help inform your contributions to a learning community devoted to ‘… any person … any study.’ We encourage you to think broadly about your life experiences, including how local (e.g., family, school, neighborhood) or global communities you’ve been part of have helped shape your perspective. (350-word limit)

Breakdown:

Cornell University was established as a beacon of thought leadership and innovation across all fields of study. This prompt asks you to explain how your life experiences will inform your contributions to this incredible learning community dedicated to “… any person … any study.” 

This is your opportunity to reflect on the personal interests and experiences that make you a strong candidate for Cornell. Remember, you have only 350 words to convey your experiences, so make sure you make each word count!

Brainstorming Questions:

• Do you have any memorable projects, experiences, or organizations that have shaped you as a person?
• How have local or global communities you’ve been part of shaped your perspective and driven you to apply to Cornell?
• How did these experiences change your perspectives or help you find your passion, and how has that shaped your goals and aspirations?
• How can you use these experiences to positively impact Cornell University’s academic, professional, and student community?
• Why is Cornell the right place for you to pursue your goals?

Example Response:

“Growing up in a multicultural neighborhood in Oakland, California as a teenager immersed me in a rich tapestry of languages, traditions, and viewpoints. My half-Portuguese family’s emphasis on education and respect for all cultures instilled in me the importance of inclusivity from a young age. I founded a diversity club in high school to celebrate different family histories through events, discussions, and community service projects. Leading this club taught me the value of embracing diverse perspectives and working collaboratively to foster a culturally inclusive environment.

Last year as a junior in high school, my global experiences further shaped my worldview. Volunteering with the renowned international health organization UNICEF exposed me to the challenges and strengths of communities worldwide. I worked alongside a team from various countries, addressing issues such as clean water access and public health education. These interactions broadened my understanding of global issues and underscored the importance of diverse perspectives in finding innovative solutions.”

College-Specific Prompts

The second part of the Cornell Supplemental essay involves college-specific questions that pertain to certain subsects of the applicant pool, depending on the major being applied for. Here’s what you need to know to tackle these successfully!

We’ve compiled all the college-specific essay questions for you. While not all may apply to you, each tip offers valuable insights and strategies to help support you during the brainstorming and idea development process, so if you have extra time to read, we recommend it.

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Required Prompt: 

Why are you drawn to studying the major you have selected? Please discuss how your interests and related experiences have influenced your choice. How will an education from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at Cornell University specifically support your learning, growth, and pursuit of your goals? (650-word limit) 

Breakdown:

To approach this prompt effectively, you need to structure your essay in a way that clearly articulates your passion for your chosen major, the experiences that have influenced your decision, and how Cornell’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) will help you achieve your goals.

Brainstorming Questions:

• What sparked your interest in the major? Was it a particular event, a book, a class, or a personal experience?
• What are your academic and professional goals for the next few years? How can studying at Cornell help make these a possibility?
• How do you hope to make a difference in your field? How do you plan to contribute to the broader community through your work?
• What core values and beliefs drive your passion for this field? How do these align with the mission and values of CALS at Cornell?
• Why is CALS the right place for you to pursue your goals?

Example Response: 

“I spent many hours in my grandfather’s greenhouse as a child, where I became fascinated by the combination of science and nature. This early exposure ignited my lifelong passion for plant sciences. An internship at a local botanical garden allowed me to work alongside horticulture experts, where I honed my skills in plant propagation and gained insights into conservation efforts. Cornell’s CALS provides exceptional opportunities in plant sciences, including the cutting-edge research conducted at the Boyce Thompson Institute. I am particularly thrilled about the Plant Science Research Laboratory, which aligns with my interests. I believe Cornell’s CALS is the perfect place to pursue my passion for plant sciences, and with the support of world-class faculty and resources, I am confident that I will achieve my goals and make meaningful contributions to the field.”

Additional CALS Prompts: 

Optional 1.: At Cornell CALS, we aim to leave the world better than we found it, so we seek out those who are not simply driven to master their discipline but who are also passionate about doing so to serve the public good. Please elaborate on an experience where you had a meaningful impact on people, a community, and/or an environment of importance to you. (200-word limit)

Optional 2. : Cornell CALS is dedicated to purpose-driven study of the agricultural, life, environmental, and social sciences and welcomes students with interests that span a wide variety of disciplines. Given our agricultural history and commitment to educating the next generation of agriculturalists, please share if you have a background or interest in agriculture, regardless of your intended major. An “agricultural entity” for this question is cultivating soil, growing crops, and raising livestock (e.g., farm, ranch, greenhouse, vineyard, etc.). 

Select all that apply:

• My parent/guardian(s) ‘s primary source of income is ownership of or employment by an agricultural entity.
• My extended family owns or operates an agricultural entity.
• I have experience working in an agricultural entity.
• I have interest in pursuing a career in an agricultural entity.                                           

Please feel free to share additional details (optional). (100-word limit)

Breakdown:

Optional Prompt 1: To effectively approach this prompt, focus on a specific experience where you significantly impacted your local community or the broader globe through mastery of a concept or practice within the agricultural field. This can be at a personal level, environmentally, within your local community, or if you’ve helped across borders! Given the 200-word limit, be concise yet detailed, emphasizing your actions, the effect on others, and how this experience reflects your passion for serving the public good through improving agriculture.

Optional Prompt 2: This question is perfect if you or a family member has been involved in the agricultural sector or are interested in pursuing a career. Since you have a limit of 100 words, focus on personal anecdotes to illustrate your experience or the lessons learned from those involved in agriculture. If space permits, you can also link this to what you hope to gain from your studies at Cornell’s CALS and how you will use it to impact the world positively.

Example Response:

Prompt 1: “Last summer, I initiated a project to convert a vacant urban lot into a community garden. As the coordinator, I organized a team of volunteers, secured funding, and collaborated with local businesses for resources. We cleared the lot, planted vegetables, and installed a sustainable irrigation system. The garden provided fresh produce to local families, served as an educational space for children, and became a gathering place for the community. Witnessing the joy and gratitude of the residents reinforced my commitment to environmental stewardship and community development. This experience aligns perfectly with CALS’s mission of serving the public good, and I am eager to contribute to innovative, sustainable solutions at Cornell.”

Prompt 2: “Growing up on my family’s farm, I deeply appreciated agriculture. From a young age, I was involved in various tasks, from planting seeds to harvesting crops and caring for livestock. This hands-on experience taught me the importance of sustainable farming practices and the impact of agriculture on our environment and community. My interest in agriculture was further fueled by participating in 4-H, where I led crop rotation and soil conservation projects. These experiences have inspired me to pursue a career in sustainable agriculture. At Cornell CALS, I look forward to deepening my knowledge through cutting-edge research and contributing to advancing sustainable farming techniques.”

College of Architecture, Art, and Planning

How do your interests directly connect with your intended major at the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning (AAP)? Why architecture (B.Arch), art (BFA), or urban and regional studies (URS)? B. Arch applicants, please provide an example of how a creative project or passion sparks your motivation to pursue a 5-year professional degree program. BFA applicants may want to consider how they could integrate a range of interests and available resources at Cornell into a coherent art practice. URS students may want to emphasize their enthusiasm and depth of interest in the study of urban and regional issues. (650 word limit)

Breakdown:

This prompt asks students to articulate how their interests align with their intended major within the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning (AAP) at Cornell University. Addressing these points effectively will demonstrate to admissions officers that you are genuinely passionate about your chosen field. Show that you have invested time and energy into nurturing this interest and are eager to take full advantage of Cornell’s incredible resources. You can make a compelling case for admission to Cornell University by articulating your commitment and enthusiasm.

Brainstorming Questions:

• How do your interests connect with your intended major within the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning?
• Why did you choose architecture, art, or urban and regional studies?
• If you’re an architecture student, what’s an example of how a creative project/passion sparked your interest in pursuing the 5-year program?
• If you’re an art student, how can you use Cornell’s resources to help support your art development goals and aspirations?
• Why are you enthusiastic about the subject if you’re an urban and regional studies major? What makes you want to pursue this at a higher level?

Example Response:

“Growing up, I spent countless hours sketching buildings and designing imaginary cities. This passion led me to enroll in art and design courses throughout high school, where I honed my skills in drawing, model-making, and digital design. I also joined the school’s architecture club, which allowed me to work on community projects, such as designing a playground for a local park. These experiences deepened my love for architecture and solidified my decision to pursue it as a career.”

College of Arts & Sciences

At the College of Arts and Sciences, curiosity will be your guide. Discuss how your passion for learning is shaping your academic journey, and what areas of study or majors excite you and why. Your response should convey how your interests align with the College, and how you would take advantage of the opportunities and curriculum in Arts and Sciences. (650 word limit)

Breakdown:

Two questions are being asked of you:

• Discuss how your passion for learning is shaping your academic journey
• What areas of study or majors excite you and why

These are great opportunities to explore a deep interest in something – do you have a phase of nature you’ve been drawn to and have dedicated time to researching? Do you have a particular area of study you’ve explored at a higher level, whether within a course inside or outside of school? Do you have supplementary classes you’ve been exploring outside of your normal course load? How do they all tie into your interest in Arts and Sciences? Being able to connect your personal experiences to why you believe the College of Arts and Sciences is the right fit for you will show admissions officers you’re the right fit for their admissions and that you’ll make the most of your time at the university, so make it count!

Example Response:

“My fascination with the natural world began in childhood, sparked by countless hours spent in my grandmother’s garden. As I observed the intricate relationships between plants, insects, and soil, I became captivated by the complexity of ecological systems. This early interest led me to excel in high school biology and environmental science courses, where I researched local ecosystems and participated in field studies. I am particularly drawn to Cornell’s Ecology and Evolutionary Biology program because it offers a comprehensive curriculum integrating fieldwork, laboratory research, and theoretical study. The opportunity to collaborate with leading researchers and access Cornell’s extensive natural areas will allow me to deepen my understanding of biodiversity and conservation.”

Cornell Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy

Why are you drawn to studying public policy? Drawing on your experiences, tell us about why you are interested in your chosen major and how attending the Brooks School will help you achieve your life goals. (650 word limit)

Breakdown:

For this prompt from Cornell, they are asking students to explain their motivation for studying public policy and how attending the Brooks School specifically will contribute to achieving their life goals. This is an excellent chance to link your passion for a particular subject to how studying at the Brooks School will enable you to drive change within your community or on a larger scale. What aspects of Cornell are you looking forward to utilizing to help you become an effective public policy advocate? What classes are you eager to study during your time at Cornell, and how will you use these opportunities to educate yourself further or lay the foundations for your future career or endeavors?

Brainstorming Questions:

• Why are you interested in studying public policy? 
• Have you been influenced by any experiences, internships, organizations, or individuals? 
• Have you watched any relevant videos or focused on specific topics that have sparked your interest? 

Example Response:

“Growing up in a small town affected by economic decline, I witnessed firsthand the impact of public policy on communities. When our local factory closed, neighbors struggled with job loss, and families were torn apart by financial stress. This ignited my passion for understanding and shaping policies to prevent hardships and promote sustainable development.”

“Internship: During my internship with [Organization], I worked on [Project], analyzing the impact of local housing policies on low-income families. This experience taught me [Key Learning], reinforcing my desire to work in public policy.

Coursework: In my [Relevant Course] class, I conducted research on [Specific Topic], which deepened my understanding of [Aspect of Public Policy] and solidified my commitment to this field.”

My long-term goal is to become a policy advisor focused on economic development and social equity. Public policy is ideal for me to address systemic issues and drive positive change. By influencing policy decisions, I aim to create opportunities and improve the quality of life for marginalized communities.”

Cornell SC Johnson College of Business

What kind of a business student are you? Using your personal, academic, or volunteer/work experiences, describe the topics or issues that you care about and why they are important to you. Your response should convey how your interests align with the school to which you are applying within the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business (Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management or the Peter and Stephanie Nolan School of Hotel Administration). (650 word limit)

Breakdown:

When looking at this prompt, you’re asked why you have found an interest in business, but it leads with an interesting question: What kind of business student are you? Given the field’s broad scope, you can reflect on your personality and goals and tie them into how you’ve transferred them into real-life practices. Each of us within the business realm has different ideas, goals, interests, and passions, so how do you hope to explore them while studying at Cornell?

Brainstorming Questions:

1. What kind of business student are you? Are you analytical, creative, entrepreneurial, or strategic?
2. How do you approach problems or challenges in a business context?
3. Have you had any personal experiences that sparked your interest in business?
4. Have you participated in any internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer activities related to business? What skills or insights did you gain from these experiences?
5. What specific topics or issues in business are you passionate about? (e.g., sustainability, corporate social responsibility, entrepreneurship, finance, marketing) How will you further your studies through the SC Johnson College of Business?
6. Why do these issues matter to you personally? What makes them a topic to pursue at Cornell?
7. What programs, courses, or extracurricular activities at Cornell align with your interests?

Example Response:

“From a young age, I’ve been captivated by the dynamics of entrepreneurship and the art of innovation. Growing up in a family of small business owners, I witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs of running a business. This exposure ignited my passion for entrepreneurship and instilled a relentless drive to create and innovate.

At Cornell, I am eager to explore my entrepreneurial spirit further and expand my horizons through hands-on experiences and collaborative projects. The Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management offers a unique platform to immerse myself in a diverse community of like-minded individuals and industry experts. I am particularly drawn to Cornell’s emphasis on practical learning, where real-world applications and internships complement classroom theories.”

College of Engineering

Instructions: All applicants are required to write two supplemental essays. Each has a limit of 250 words. Essay 1 is required of all applicants. For Essay 2, you must choose between Question A and Question B.

Essay 1: Required response. (250-word limit)

How do your interests directly connect with Cornell Engineering? If you have an intended major, what draws you to that department at Cornell Engineering? If you are unsure what specific engineering field you would like to study, describe how your general interest in engineering most directly connects with Cornell Engineering. It may be helpful to concentrate on one or two things that you are most excited about.

Breakdown:

When it comes to applying to Cornell’s College of Engineering, the main goal for admissions officers is to see if you are truly interested in engineering and if you will utilize your time at the university to further your pursuit into the field. There are quite a few directions you can take when you answer these questions depending on your interests, but try to think out of the box and truly apply your interest into what you hope to accomplish at Cornell.

Brainstorming Questions:

1. What are your primary interests in engineering?
2. How did you develop these interests? Was there a particular experience or person who influenced you?
3. How does Cornell Engineering support or enhance your interests?
4. Are there specific programs, clubs, or organizations at Cornell Engineering that align with your interests?
5. Have you visited Cornell or interacted with current students or faculty? What insights did you gain?
6. What specific field of engineering are you interested in? Why?
7. How does the curriculum of your intended major at Cornell stand out to you?
8. How do you see your education at Cornell Engineering helping you achieve your future career or academic goals?
9. Do you hope to accomplish any particular outcomes or milestones through your connection with Cornell Engineering?

Example Response:

“Stepping into Cornell Engineering feels like diving headfirst into a world where ideas ignite and innovation thrives. My path here isn’t just about picking a major—it’s about embracing a journey fueled by curiosity and a drive to push boundaries.

In essence, Cornell Engineering isn’t just a destination—it’s a launchpad for exploration, innovation, and making waves in the world. Here, amidst towering ideas and collaborative fervor, I’m ready to shape my journey, fueled by passion, driven by purpose, and destined to leave an indelible mark.”

Essay 2: Choose either Question A and Question B. (250-word limit)

Question A: Describe an engineering problem that impacts your local community. This could be your school, neighborhood, town, region, or a group you identify with. Describe one to three things you might do as an engineer to solve the problem.

Question B: Diversity in all forms is intrinsic to excellence in engineering. Engineering the best solutions to complex problems is often achieved by drawing from the diverse ingenuity of people from different backgrounds, lived experiences, and identities. How do you see yourself contributing to the diversity and/or the inclusion of the Cornell Engineering community? What is the unique voice you would bring to the Cornell Engineering community?

Breakdown:

Questions to ask yourself:

If you’re interested in question A:

1. What engineering problems have you seen around your community? Do any road challenges, flood issues, etc., become evident during certain times of the year?
2. What would you do if you were the engineer on the project? How would you handle the design challenges and improve the engineering of the particular problem?

If you’re interested in answering question B:

1. How does diversity impact engineering? How do your past experiences influence your desire to be in engineering?
2. How will you use this knowledge and perspective to impact the Cornell Engineering community positively? What will you contribute to the college, and how will you use Cornell’s resources to make an impact?

Example Response:

Question A: “In my hometown, the issue of water scarcity has emerged as a pressing engineering challenge that profoundly affects our community. As climate change intensifies, our region faces increasingly erratic rainfall patterns, leading to periods of drought that strain our local water supply systems.

One specific problem is the inefficiency of our current irrigation practices in agriculture. Farmers rely heavily on traditional irrigation methods that are often wasteful and unsustainable, exacerbating water scarcity during dry spells. This threatens crop yields and compromises the long-term viability of our agricultural sector, which is the backbone of our local economy.”

Question B: “Diversity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the cornerstone of innovation and excellence in engineering. As I envision myself joining the vibrant community at Cornell Engineering, I am inspired by the opportunity to contribute my unique perspective and experiences to foster a more inclusive and innovative environment.

Growing up in a multicultural household has shaped my worldview and instilled a deep appreciation for diversity. I have navigated between different cultures, languages, and traditions, which has enriched my ability to collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds. This multicultural upbringing has taught me the value of empathy, adaptability, and the importance of listening to diverse voices.”

College of Human Ecology

How have your related experiences influenced your decision to apply to the College of Human Ecology (CHE)? How will your choice of major impact your goals and plans for the future? Your response should show us that your interests and aspirations align with CHE and your choice of major. (Refer to our essay application tips before you begin.) (650 word limit)

Breakdown:

In this prompt, you’re asked to describe how your personal, academic, or volunteer experiences have shaped your decision to apply to the College of Human Ecology (CHE) at Cornell University. Explain how these experiences have influenced your choice of major and how this choice aligns with your future goals and plans! Your response should also demonstrate how your interests and aspirations are in harmony with the mission and values of CHE.

Brainstorming questions:

1. What have you done within the realm of Human Ecology? Why are you interested in the subject?
2. Why is the College of Human Ecology the right place for your intellectual development and study?
3. What experiences have you had within the field that you can use to impact your academic interests as you move into higher education?
4. What are your goals and aspirations for the future? How do they relate to this university? 

Example Response:

“From a young age, I have been fascinated by the intricate interplay between human behavior and the environment. Growing up in a family deeply involved in community health initiatives, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that supportive environments can have on individual well-being. These experiences ignited my passion for understanding how social and environmental factors shape human development, motivating my decision to apply to the College of Human Ecology (CHE) at Cornell University.

One pivotal experience that solidified my interest in CHE occurred during high school when I volunteered at a local homeless shelter. I interacted daily with individuals facing various challenges, from food insecurity to mental health issues. These interactions underscored the importance of holistic approaches to social issues, combining insights from psychology, nutrition, and community development. I realized that addressing complex societal problems requires interdisciplinary knowledge and collaboration—a cornerstone of CHE’s approach.”

School of Industrial and Labor Relations

Using your personal, academic, or volunteer/work experiences, describe the topics or issues that you care about and why they are important to you. Your response should show us that your interests align with the ILR School. (650 word limit)

Breakdown:

As an applicant to the School of Industrial and Labor Relations, Cornell wants to know what brought you to this path and how you will use this experience to contribute to the ILR School. What have you done within school or outside of it that has driven you to explore a path in industrial and labor relations?

Brainstorming questions:

1. What is important to you? What do you value most in life?
2. Are there any topics in the news or within your community that you focus on?
3. What have you done in and outside school to help impact these particular issues?
4. Are there any experiences that stand out to you most or have impacted you most?
5. Why did you choose to apply to the ILR School at Cornell? What makes this school helpful or unique to your goals and aspirations?
6. How will you use this experience to help make a difference within your community and on a larger scale?

Example Response:

“Throughout my academic and extracurricular journey, my passion for understanding and advocating for labor rights and workplace equity has been a guiding force. This commitment stems from personal experiences and academic exploration, aligning perfectly with the mission and values of the ILR School at Cornell University.

Looking forward, I aim to leverage the interdisciplinary education and resources offered by the ILR School to advance my understanding and impact on labor relations. The ILR School’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community and its renowned faculty and research centers like the Worker Institute align perfectly with my aspirations to become a leader in advocating for labor justice.”

Our Top 10 Tips for Tackling the Cornell Supplemental Essays

Below are some tips to keep in mind for writing your college essays:

1. Understand the Prompt

Before beginning to write, ensure that you have a thorough understanding of each essay prompt. Cornell University has different colleges, each with questions specific to their unique programs. Take the time to deconstruct the prompt, identify its requirements, and make sure you address each part. This will ensure that your essay is relevant and focused and that you leave the admissions committee wanting to learn more about you and your strengths!

2. Research the College

Cornell University comprises several colleges, each with its academic focus and culture. Research the specific college you are applying to within Cornell. Understand its values, programs, and what makes it unique, and use the research to tailor your essays to show how your goals and interests align with the college’s offerings.

3. Reflect on Your Experiences

Your experiences are the foundation of your essay. Reflect on personal, academic, and extracurricular activities that have shaped you and are relevant to the prompt, and choose experiences that demonstrate your skills, interests, and values. This reflection will help you create a compelling narrative that highlights your unique background and how it aligns with Cornell’s offerings.

Here’s an example of how a student tied their experiences to apply to the Cornell School of Hotel Administration:

4. Be Authentic

Authenticity is vital in your supplemental essays—you’re unique, and so is your story, so show it! Admissions officers can tell when an essay is genuine versus crafted to impress. Be honest about your interests, experiences, and aspirations. Authenticity will make your essay stand out and resonate with readers, showing them who you are.

5. Show, Don’t Tell

When crafting supplemental essays, use specific examples to illustrate your points rather than make general statements. For instance, describe a project or experience that sparked your interest in business instead of saying you are passionate about business. This approach makes your essay more vivid and memorable, allowing the admissions committee to visualize your journey and passion!

6. Highlight Your Fit

Please explain why you believe you are a good fit for Cornell and why Cornell is a good fit for you. Discuss specific programs, courses, professors, or extracurricular activities that excite you. In addition, demonstrate your understanding of Cornell’s community and how you can contribute, showing that you have done thorough research and are genuinely interested in being a part of Cornell. If admitted, this will be your home for multiple years, so show the admissions officers why and how you plan to improve the experience for current and future students.

7. Be Clear and Concise

While it’s essential to be detailed, you should also be concise. Stick to the word limit and avoid unnecessary fluff; each sentence should add value to your essay. Being clear and concise ensures that your main points come across effectively and keeps the reader engaged throughout your essay!

8. Craft a Strong Opening

Your opening paragraph sets the tone for the rest of your essay. Start with a compelling hook that grabs the reader’s attention, whether it is an anecdote, a surprising fact, or a thought-provoking question. A strong opening will entice the admissions officers to read on and learn more about you, so be sure to hook their interest immediately!

9. Revise and Edit

Writing a great essay involves multiple drafts. After your initial draft, take the time to revise and refine your essay. Focus on improving the clarity, coherence, and flow of your writing. Pay attention to grammar and spelling. Consider seeking feedback from teachers, mentors, or friends to get different perspectives. If you need a second set of eyes, our Essay Editing team at Empowerly has always got your back! Our expert team has read and reviewed thousands of student essays, so they know exactly what to look for when editing and revising your supplemental essays.

10. Reflect Your Growth

Colleges are looking for students who are constantly growing and learning. Show how your experiences have influenced you and how you have grown. Discuss any challenges you have overcome and what you have learned from them. This shows resilience and a dedication to personal development, which colleges appreciate!

Final Thoughts

Cornell University’s supplemental essays are a vital component of your application. By thoughtfully addressing each prompt and showcasing your unique experiences and aspirations, you can create a compelling narrative that resonates with the admissions committee. Remember, your goal is to demonstrate your qualifications and passion for Cornell and how you will contribute to its vibrant community, but you got this. If you need some extra support, Empowerly has got your back! Be part of the 98% of students accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools with Empowerly’s help. Our top-rated college counselors and essay editing experts have improved admission rates by 11x. Don’t miss out—boost your chances of success today by scheduling a consultation with our team!

Good luck and happy writing!

The post Breaking Down the Cornell Supplemental Essays (2025) appeared first on Empowerly.

For many students, a primary source of stress throughout the college application process is the persistent sense that their applications will not “stand out” to admissions officers. Frequently, this stress manifests in the form of essay anxiety, here taken to mean the fear associated with the feeling that one’s essay is not original, creative, impactful, or eye-catching. 

There is some basis to these fears; in reality, admissions officers read thousands of applications and essays in a very limited amount of time, and this necessitates some degree of “skimming.” In this sense, if the student’s essay doesn’t contain something immediately compelling, the application may be overlooked.

However, while this fear may have some degree of logical grounding, it is not a productive, nor necessary, fear to have. In truth, it is possible to intentionally craft an essay that stands out; one need not leave the success of an essay up to luck or some romanticized notion of divine inspiration. 

There are concrete tips to follow that can substantially improve the quality of an essay. One such piece of advice? Avoid clichés.

65 Clichés to Avoid

Overused Phrases About Perseverance

These phrases attempt to showcase determination but are so common they fail to leave an impact. Admissions officers are looking for authenticity, not recycled motivational jargon.

• “…against all odds…”
• “…blood, sweat, and tears…”
• “…gave it my all…”
• “…put my best foot forward…”
• “…bend over backwards…”
• “…take one for the team…”
• “…back to square one…”
• “…it all came down to…”

Overly Dramatic or Emotional Expressions

Dramatic phrases often exaggerate feelings, making the narrative feel less believable. Instead of connecting with the reader, these clichés can come across as theatrical.

• “…scared to death…”
• “…cried my eyes out…”
• “…worst nightmare…”
• “…moment of truth…”
• “…sigh of relief…”
• “…down to earth…”
• “…like there was no tomorrow…”

Generic Life Lessons

These clichéd reflections fail to provide unique insights into personal growth. They sound vague and don’t convey a strong sense of individuality.

• “…never look back…”
• “…never say never…”
• “…make the best of it…”
• “…stop and smell the roses…”
• “…seize the day…”
• “…you only live once…”
• “…in this day and age…”
• “…not the end of the world…”

Predictable Descriptions of Success or Achievement

While highlighting success is important, these overused phrases fail to stand out. They lack the specificity needed to make a lasting impression.

• “…pillar of the community…”
• “…light at the end of the tunnel…”
• “…even the playing field…”
• “…force to be reckoned with…”
• “…one in a million…”
• “…benefit of the doubt…”
• “…made my day…”

Clichés About Self-Reflection or Realization

Reflecting on personal growth is valuable, but these phrases often feel generic and uninspired. They don’t provide the depth necessary to showcase true self-awareness.

• “…to be honest…”
• “…let’s face it…”
• “…not to mention…”
• “…wake-up call…”
• “…on the tip of my tongue…”
• “…to the best of my knowledge…”
• “…in my element…”
• “…wakeup call…”

Overused Metaphors and Analogies

Metaphors can be powerful, but these ones are so familiar they’ve lost their impact. They make essays feel formulaic rather than creative.

• “…think outside the box…”
• “…silver lining…”
• “…judge a book by its cover…”
• “…eye for an eye…”
• “…cross that bridge when we come to it…”
• “…calm before the storm…”
• “…time and time again…”

Predictable Phrases About Relationships or Unity

Expressions about connection and unity can feel hollow when they rely on tired language. These clichés fail to convey the depth of real relationships.

• “…see eye to eye…”
• “…go with the flow…”
• “…follow my heart…”
• “…keep my head/chin up…”
• “…every fiber of my being…”

Tired Storytelling Tropes

Common narrative clichés weaken storytelling by making it predictable. They prevent essays from standing out in a competitive admissions process.

• “…little did I know…”
• “…time of my life…”
• “…at the end of the day…”
• “…last but not least…”
• “…too good to be true…”
• “…the time of my life…”

Phrases That Lack Specificity

Generic phrases like these often fill space without adding substance. Essays with these clichés risk sounding impersonal and forgettable.

• “…go the extra mile…”
• “…beg to differ…”
• “…could have heard a pin drop…”
• “…for all intents and purposes…”
• “…to each her own…”
• “…easier said than done…”
• “…get to the bottom of…”
• “…goes without saying…”
• “…forgive and forget…”

Video: Writing an Authentic College Essay: Avoiding Cliches and Standing Out | What Did I Say? Episode 23

Why Avoiding Clichés is Important

Avoiding clichés in your Common App essay is essential to stand out in a competitive admissions process. Admissions officers read thousands of essays each year, and overused phrases or generic topics fail to capture their attention. 

Clichés often dilute your individuality, making it harder to showcase your unique experiences and perspective. By steering clear of these common traps, you can craft a more compelling and memorable narrative that highlights your authentic voice.

Spotting and Replacing Clichés in Your Writing

Crafting a unique essay begins with recognizing overused ideas and replacing them with personal, authentic storytelling. Here's how to spot clichés and refine your writing, with clear examples to guide you.

Step 1: Recognize Overused Themes

Clichés often center on predictable narratives, such as sports wins, mission trips, or common struggles. These stories can feel generic because they’re so common among applicants.

How to Spot Them:

• Look for phrases or topics that lack specific details or sound like they could describe anyone.
• Ask yourself: “Could this story apply to many other applicants?” If yes, it likely lacks originality.

Example of a Cliché:
"Winning the championship taught me that hard work pays off."
This statement is vague and doesn’t provide insights into the writer’s unique personality or journey.

Cliché-Free Rewrite:
"During practice, I realized my true strength lay in encouraging teammates who felt disheartened, rather than in my athletic performance."
This rewrite emphasizes the writer's unique role and offers a glimpse into their character, making the story more memorable.

Video: Tips From College Admissions Office: Avoid Cliches, Write About Yourself!

Step 2: Avoid Predictable Life Lessons

Essays often end with conclusions that feel formulaic, such as “I learned to never give up” or “Appreciate what you have.” While the lessons may be true, they fail to offer a deeper reflection of personal growth.

How to Improve:

• Focus on insights that demonstrate self-awareness or provide a fresh perspective.
• Ask yourself: “Does this lesson reveal something truly personal or unique about me?”

Example of a Cliché:
"My volunteer trip to a developing country opened my eyes to how privileged I am."
This sentiment is commonly expressed and can feel superficial if not expanded upon thoughtfully.

Cliché-Free Rewrite:
"While volunteering in a rural school, I saw how education thrives not through abundant resources but through sparking curiosity, even in challenging circumstances."
This rewrite avoids generalizations and highlights a specific observation that reveals the writer’s reflective and nuanced perspective.

Step 3: Focus on Specific Details

Generalized stories often lack the personal touch needed to engage readers. Specific details not only make your story more vivid but also help admissions officers connect with your experiences.

How to Enhance Details:

• Replace broad statements with vivid, sensory descriptions.
• Share specific actions or moments that illustrate your journey.

Example of a Cliché:
"I worked hard to improve my grades and became a better student."
This is too general and doesn’t show the effort or journey behind the achievement.

Cliché-Free Rewrite:
"Failing my first chemistry test pushed me to stay after school for extra help, make flashcards, and teach classmates—actions that deepened my understanding."
This version offers concrete examples of effort, making the story more relatable and impactful.

Step 4: Use Feedback to Refine

Even the best writers may overlook clichés in their own work. Feedback from others can help identify overused phrases or ideas and ensure the essay reflects your authentic voice.

How to Seek Feedback:

• Share your essay with someone who knows you well, like a teacher, mentor, or friend.
• Ask specific questions:
  • Does this sound like something you’ve read before?
  • Does my essay reflect my unique perspective and experiences?

Pro Tip: Reflect on small, meaningful moments that showcase your character, rather than emphasizing major accomplishments. These personal details often leave a stronger impression.

Step 5: Reflect on “Why This Story?”

A meaningful story isn’t just about what happened but why it matters to you. Consider how the story reflects your values, personality, or aspirations.

How to Reflect:

• Ask yourself: “Why is this story important to me?”
• Think about how it connects to your future goals or highlights traits not evident in other parts of your application.

Example Question:
"What does this story say about me that isn’t already on my transcript or resume?"
This reflection ensures your essay complements the rest of your application and adds depth to your profile.

Step 6: Revisit and Revise

Taking a break from your essay allows you to revisit it with a fresh perspective. This helps you spot lingering clichés or areas where your writing can be stronger.

How to Revise Effectively:

• Set your essay aside for a few days before reviewing it again.
• Highlight any phrases that feel generic or overused and consider how to make them more specific.
• Look for opportunities to add depth or clarity to your storytelling.

Pro Tip: Fresh eyes often catch phrases that feel overused or generic. If possible, ask for a second round of feedback after revising.

The Power of Authenticity: Avoiding AI and Personally Standing Out

A truly authentic essay is your opportunity to stand out in a crowded pool of applicants. Admissions officers seek essays that provide a genuine glimpse into your personality, values, and experiences. 

When you write from a personal perspective, you create a narrative that can’t be replicated, leaving a lasting impression. Unique essays demonstrate self-awareness and originality, qualities that colleges value highly in prospective students.

Relying on AI-generated content might seem convenient, but it often produces generic and impersonal writing that fails to capture your individuality. Admissions officers are skilled at identifying formulaic or overly polished essays, which can detract from your application. 

Instead, focus on sharing vivid, personal stories and specific moments that showcase your character and growth. Authenticity is the key to making your essay memorable and maximizing your chances of success.

Step 2: Avoid Predictable Life Lessons

Essays often end with conclusions that feel formulaic, such as “I learned to never give up” or “Appreciate what you have.” While the lessons may be true, they fail to offer a deeper reflection of personal growth.

How to Improve:

• Focus on insights that demonstrate self-awareness or provide a fresh perspective.
• Ask yourself: “Does this lesson reveal something truly personal or unique about me?”

Example of a Cliché:
"My volunteer trip to a developing country opened my eyes to how privileged I am."
This sentiment is commonly expressed and can feel superficial if not expanded upon thoughtfully.

Cliché-Free Rewrite:
"While volunteering in a rural school, I saw how education thrives not through abundant resources but through sparking curiosity, even in challenging circumstances."
This rewrite avoids generalizations and highlights a specific observation that reveals the writer’s reflective and nuanced perspective.

Step 3: Focus on Specific Details

Generalized stories often lack the personal touch needed to engage readers. Specific details not only make your story more vivid but also help admissions officers connect with your experiences.

How to Enhance Details:

• Replace broad statements with vivid, sensory descriptions.
• Share specific actions or moments that illustrate your journey.

Example of a Cliché:
"I worked hard to improve my grades and became a better student."
This is too general and doesn’t show the effort or journey behind the achievement.

Cliché-Free Rewrite:
"Failing my first chemistry test pushed me to stay after school for extra help, make flashcards, and teach classmates—actions that deepened my understanding."
This version offers concrete examples of effort, making the story more relatable and impactful.

Step 4: Use Feedback to Refine

Even the best writers may overlook clichés in their own work. Feedback from others can help identify overused phrases or ideas and ensure the essay reflects your authentic voice.

How to Seek Feedback:

• Share your essay with someone who knows you well, like a teacher, mentor, or friend.
• Ask specific questions:
  • Does this sound like something you’ve read before?
  • Does my essay reflect my unique perspective and experiences?

Pro Tip: Reflect on small, meaningful moments that showcase your character, rather than emphasizing major accomplishments. These personal details often leave a stronger impression.

Step 5: Reflect on “Why This Story?”

A meaningful story isn’t just about what happened but why it matters to you. Consider how the story reflects your values, personality, or aspirations.

How to Reflect:

• Ask yourself: “Why is this story important to me?”
• Think about how it connects to your future goals or highlights traits not evident in other parts of your application.

Example Question:
"What does this story say about me that isn’t already on my transcript or resume?"
This reflection ensures your essay complements the rest of your application and adds depth to your profile.

Step 6: Revisit and Revise

Taking a break from your essay allows you to revisit it with a fresh perspective. This helps you spot lingering clichés or areas where your writing can be stronger.

How to Revise Effectively:

• Set your essay aside for a few days before reviewing it again.
• Highlight any phrases that feel generic or overused and consider how to make them more specific.
• Look for opportunities to add depth or clarity to your storytelling.

Pro Tip: Fresh eyes often catch phrases that feel overused or generic. If possible, ask for a second round of feedback after revising.

The Power of Authenticity: Avoiding AI and Personally Standing Out

A truly authentic essay is your opportunity to stand out in a crowded pool of applicants. Admissions officers seek essays that provide a genuine glimpse into your personality, values, and experiences. 

When you write from a personal perspective, you create a narrative that can’t be replicated, leaving a lasting impression. Unique essays demonstrate self-awareness and originality, qualities that colleges value highly in prospective students.

Relying on AI-generated content might seem convenient, but it often produces generic and impersonal writing that fails to capture your individuality. Admissions officers are skilled at identifying formulaic or overly polished essays, which can detract from your application. 

Instead, focus on sharing vivid, personal stories and specific moments that showcase your character and growth. Authenticity is the key to making your essay memorable and maximizing your chances of success.H3:  Step 2: Avoid Predictable Life Lessons

Essays often end with conclusions that feel formulaic, such as “I learned to never give up” or “Appreciate what you have.” While the lessons may be true, they fail to offer a deeper reflection of personal growth.

How to Improve:

• Focus on insights that demonstrate self-awareness or provide a fresh perspective.
• Ask yourself: “Does this lesson reveal something truly personal or unique about me?”

Example of a Cliché:
"My volunteer trip to a developing country opened my eyes to how privileged I am."
This sentiment is commonly expressed and can feel superficial if not expanded upon thoughtfully.

Cliché-Free Rewrite:
"While volunteering in a rural school, I saw how education thrives not through abundant resources but through sparking curiosity, even in challenging circumstances."
This rewrite avoids generalizations and highlights a specific observation that reveals the writer’s reflective and nuanced perspective.

Step 3: Focus on Specific Details

Generalized stories often lack the personal touch needed to engage readers. Specific details not only make your story more vivid but also help admissions officers connect with your experiences.

How to Enhance Details:

• Replace broad statements with vivid, sensory descriptions.
• Share specific actions or moments that illustrate your journey.

Example of a Cliché:
"I worked hard to improve my grades and became a better student."
This is too general and doesn’t show the effort or journey behind the achievement.

Cliché-Free Rewrite:
"Failing my first chemistry test pushed me to stay after school for extra help, make flashcards, and teach classmates—actions that deepened my understanding."
This version offers concrete examples of effort, making the story more relatable and impactful.

Step 4: Use Feedback to Refine

Even the best writers may overlook clichés in their own work. Feedback from others can help identify overused phrases or ideas and ensure the essay reflects your authentic voice.

How to Seek Feedback:

• Share your essay with someone who knows you well, like a teacher, mentor, or friend.
• Ask specific questions:
  • Does this sound like something you’ve read before?
  • Does my essay reflect my unique perspective and experiences?

Pro Tip: Reflect on small, meaningful moments that showcase your character, rather than emphasizing major accomplishments. These personal details often leave a stronger impression.

Step 5: Reflect on “Why This Story?”

A meaningful story isn’t just about what happened but why it matters to you. Consider how the story reflects your values, personality, or aspirations.

How to Reflect:

• Ask yourself: “Why is this story important to me?”
• Think about how it connects to your future goals or highlights traits not evident in other parts of your application.

Example Question:
"What does this story say about me that isn’t already on my transcript or resume?"
This reflection ensures your essay complements the rest of your application and adds depth to your profile.

Step 6: Revisit and Revise

Taking a break from your essay allows you to revisit it with a fresh perspective. This helps you spot lingering clichés or areas where your writing can be stronger.

How to Revise Effectively:

• Set your essay aside for a few days before reviewing it again.
• Highlight any phrases that feel generic or overused and consider how to make them more specific.
• Look for opportunities to add depth or clarity to your storytelling.

Pro Tip: Fresh eyes often catch phrases that feel overused or generic. If possible, ask for a second round of feedback after revising.

The Power of Authenticity: Avoiding AI and Personally Standing Out

A truly authentic essay is your opportunity to stand out in a crowded pool of applicants. Admissions officers seek essays that provide a genuine glimpse into your personality, values, and experiences. 

When you write from a personal perspective, you create a narrative that can’t be replicated, leaving a lasting impression. Unique essays demonstrate self-awareness and originality, qualities that colleges value highly in prospective students.

Relying on AI-generated content might seem convenient, but it often produces generic and impersonal writing that fails to capture your individuality. Admissions officers are skilled at identifying formulaic or overly polished essays, which can detract from your application. 

Instead, focus on sharing vivid, personal stories and specific moments that showcase your character and growth. Authenticity is the key to making your essay memorable and maximizing your chances of success.

Step 2: Avoid Predictable Life Lessons

Essays often end with conclusions that feel formulaic, such as “I learned to never give up” or “Appreciate what you have.” While the lessons may be true, they fail to offer a deeper reflection of personal growth.

How to Improve:

• Focus on insights that demonstrate self-awareness or provide a fresh perspective.
• Ask yourself: “Does this lesson reveal something truly personal or unique about me?”

Example of a Cliché:
"My volunteer trip to a developing country opened my eyes to how privileged I am."
This sentiment is commonly expressed and can feel superficial if not expanded upon thoughtfully.

Cliché-Free Rewrite:
"While volunteering in a rural school, I saw how education thrives not through abundant resources but through sparking curiosity, even in challenging circumstances."
This rewrite avoids generalizations and highlights a specific observation that reveals the writer’s reflective and nuanced perspective.

Step 3: Focus on Specific Details

Generalized stories often lack the personal touch needed to engage readers. Specific details not only make your story more vivid but also help admissions officers connect with your experiences.

How to Enhance Details:

• Replace broad statements with vivid, sensory descriptions.
• Share specific actions or moments that illustrate your journey.

Example of a Cliché:
"I worked hard to improve my grades and became a better student."
This is too general and doesn’t show the effort or journey behind the achievement.

Cliché-Free Rewrite:
"Failing my first chemistry test pushed me to stay after school for extra help, make flashcards, and teach classmates—actions that deepened my understanding."
This version offers concrete examples of effort, making the story more relatable and impactful.

Step 4: Use Feedback to Refine

Even the best writers may overlook clichés in their own work. Feedback from others can help identify overused phrases or ideas and ensure the essay reflects your authentic voice.

How to Seek Feedback:

• Share your essay with someone who knows you well, like a teacher, mentor, or friend.
• Ask specific questions:
  • Does this sound like something you’ve read before?
  • Does my essay reflect my unique perspective and experiences?

Pro Tip: Reflect on small, meaningful moments that showcase your character, rather than emphasizing major accomplishments. These personal details often leave a stronger impression.

Step 5: Reflect on “Why This Story?”

A meaningful story isn’t just about what happened but why it matters to you. Consider how the story reflects your values, personality, or aspirations.

How to Reflect:

• Ask yourself: “Why is this story important to me?”
• Think about how it connects to your future goals or highlights traits not evident in other parts of your application.

Example Question:
"What does this story say about me that isn’t already on my transcript or resume?"
This reflection ensures your essay complements the rest of your application and adds depth to your profile.

Step 6: Revisit and Revise

Taking a break from your essay allows you to revisit it with a fresh perspective. This helps you spot lingering clichés or areas where your writing can be stronger.

How to Revise Effectively:

• Set your essay aside for a few days before reviewing it again.
• Highlight any phrases that feel generic or overused and consider how to make them more specific.
• Look for opportunities to add depth or clarity to your storytelling.

Pro Tip: Fresh eyes often catch phrases that feel overused or generic. If possible, ask for a second round of feedback after revising.

The Power of Authenticity: Avoiding AI and Personally Standing Out

A truly authentic essay is your opportunity to stand out in a crowded pool of applicants. Admissions officers seek essays that provide a genuine glimpse into your personality, values, and experiences. 

When you write from a personal perspective, you create a narrative that can’t be replicated, leaving a lasting impression. Unique essays demonstrate self-awareness and originality, qualities that colleges value highly in prospective students.

Relying on AI-generated content might seem convenient, but it often produces generic and impersonal writing that fails to capture your individuality. Admissions officers are skilled at identifying formulaic or overly polished essays, which can detract from your application. 

Instead, focus on sharing vivid, personal stories and specific moments that showcase your character and growth. Authenticity is the key to making your essay memorable and maximizing your chances of success.

Step 2: Avoid Predictable Life Lessons

Essays often end with conclusions that feel formulaic, such as “I learned to never give up” or “Appreciate what you have.” While the lessons may be true, they fail to offer a deeper reflection of personal growth.

How to Improve:

• Focus on insights that demonstrate self-awareness or provide a fresh perspective.
• Ask yourself: “Does this lesson reveal something truly personal or unique about me?”

Example of a Cliché:
"My volunteer trip to a developing country opened my eyes to how privileged I am."
This sentiment is commonly expressed and can feel superficial if not expanded upon thoughtfully.

Cliché-Free Rewrite:
"While volunteering in a rural school, I saw how education thrives not through abundant resources but through sparking curiosity, even in challenging circumstances."
This rewrite avoids generalizations and highlights a specific observation that reveals the writer’s reflective and nuanced perspective.

Step 3: Focus on Specific Details

Generalized stories often lack the personal touch needed to engage readers. Specific details not only make your story more vivid but also help admissions officers connect with your experiences.

How to Enhance Details:

• Replace broad statements with vivid, sensory descriptions.
• Share specific actions or moments that illustrate your journey.

Example of a Cliché:
"I worked hard to improve my grades and became a better student."
This is too general and doesn’t show the effort or journey behind the achievement.

Cliché-Free Rewrite:
"Failing my first chemistry test pushed me to stay after school for extra help, make flashcards, and teach classmates—actions that deepened my understanding."
This version offers concrete examples of effort, making the story more relatable and impactful.

Step 4: Use Feedback to Refine

Even the best writers may overlook clichés in their own work. Feedback from others can help identify overused phrases or ideas and ensure the essay reflects your authentic voice.

How to Seek Feedback:

• Share your essay with someone who knows you well, like a teacher, mentor, or friend.
• Ask specific questions:
  • Does this sound like something you’ve read before?
  • Does my essay reflect my unique perspective and experiences?

Pro Tip: Reflect on small, meaningful moments that showcase your character, rather than emphasizing major accomplishments. These personal details often leave a stronger impression.

Step 5: Reflect on “Why This Story?”

A meaningful story isn’t just about what happened but why it matters to you. Consider how the story reflects your values, personality, or aspirations.

How to Reflect:

• Ask yourself: “Why is this story important to me?”
• Think about how it connects to your future goals or highlights traits not evident in other parts of your application.

Example Question:
"What does this story say about me that isn’t already on my transcript or resume?"
This reflection ensures your essay complements the rest of your application and adds depth to your profile.

Step 6: Revisit and Revise

Taking a break from your essay allows you to revisit it with a fresh perspective. This helps you spot lingering clichés or areas where your writing can be stronger.

How to Revise Effectively:

• Set your essay aside for a few days before reviewing it again.
• Highlight any phrases that feel generic or overused and consider how to make them more specific.
• Look for opportunities to add depth or clarity to your storytelling.

Pro Tip: Fresh eyes often catch phrases that feel overused or generic. If possible, ask for a second round of feedback after revising.

The Power of Authenticity: Avoiding AI and Personally Standing Out

A truly authentic essay is your opportunity to stand out in a crowded pool of applicants. Admissions officers seek essays that provide a genuine glimpse into your personality, values, and experiences. 

When you write from a personal perspective, you create a narrative that can’t be replicated, leaving a lasting impression. Unique essays demonstrate self-awareness and originality, qualities that colleges value highly in prospective students.

Relying on AI-generated content might seem convenient, but it often produces generic and impersonal writing that fails to capture your individuality. Admissions officers are skilled at identifying formulaic or overly polished essays, which can detract from your application. 

Instead, focus on sharing vivid, personal stories and specific moments that showcase your character and growth. Authenticity is the key to making your essay memorable and maximizing your chances of success.

Video: How to Avoid Cliches

In conclusion

Avoiding clichés in your Common App essay is about more than just standing out—it’s about authentically representing your individuality. Admissions officers value essays that provide fresh insights and unique perspectives, qualities often lost in overused phrases and predictable narratives. 

By identifying and replacing clichés with specific, personal stories, students can craft essays that genuinely reflect their character and aspirations. This intentional approach not only strengthens your application but also ensures your voice resonates in a meaningful and memorable way.

Work With Us!

Ready to turn your college admission dreams into reality? Join the 98% of students who have worked with Empowerly and been accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools. Our college counselors are the best-rated in the country and have proven to improve college admission rates by 11x. Book your FREE consultation today.

Additional Resources

• Top 40 College Essay Ideas and Topics: Struggling to find a unique angle for your essay? Check out the Top 40 College Essay Ideas and Topics for inspiration and creative approaches.
• College Application Help: 15 Tips to Help You Succeed: Applying to college can be overwhelming, but the College Application Help: 15 Tips to Help You Succeed offers actionable advice to simplify the process.
• 10 Tips for Finding an Independent College Counselor: The right counselor can make a big difference in your college journey. Learn how with these 10 Tips for Finding an Independent College Counselor.

The post 65 Clichés to Avoid Using in Your Common App Essay appeared first on Empowerly.

Are you gearing up to answer the Harvey Mudd essays? Harvey Mudd College is an unsuspecting heavy-hitter. As part of the Claremont Colleges network, the school is naturally well-funded to dedicate plenty of resources to each student. 

Despite this materially supportive environment, however, something else sets Harvey Mudd apart in the eyes of high-achieving students: the competitive atmosphere.

Are you intrigued and excited by a challenge? Do you thrive on healthy competition and a high pressure atmosphere? Then you might be the perfect fit for the intellectual forge of Harvey Mudd.

Why Harvey Mudd College? 

Let’s review the stats. 

Located in Claremont, California, this science and engineering school shares resources with the entire Claremont College system. Though expensive (highest cost for 2 years running from 2015-2016 in the whole country) you get a bang for your buck: the experience is intense. 

You benefit from small class sizes, great professors, and inspiring collaboration and brainstorming sessions with some of the best rising technical minds in the world. 

But the gauntlet doesn’t just start once you set foot on campus. Admissions are cutthroat too. The most recent admissions statistics show an acceptance rate of a mere 13.7% of the pool, and sky-high test scores almost a prerequisite for consideration.  

Video: College Admission Secrets — Interview with former Dean of Admissions at Harvey Mudd College

Crafting a Compelling Response to Harvey Mudd Supplemental Essay Prompt # 1

Prompt # 1

"Scientific research is a human endeavor. The choices of topics that we research are based on our biases, our beliefs, and what we bring: our cultures and our families. The kinds of problems that people put their talents to solving depends on their values." — Dr. Clifton Poodry

"Harvey Mudd College seeks to educate engineers, scientists, and mathematicians well versed in all of these areas and in the humanities, social sciences, and the arts so that they may assume leadership in their fields with a clear understanding of the impact of their work on society." — HMC Mission Statement

"How has your own background influenced the types of problems you want to solve, the people you want to work with, and the impact you hope your work can have? (500 words)"

This prompt invites applicants to draw connections between their personal experiences and their aspirations in STEM fields. Harvey Mudd is looking for students who understand how their identity shapes their perspective on solving real-world problems and contributing to society. 

The question emphasizes values, collaboration, and social responsibility, mirroring the college’s interdisciplinary mission.

Tips on How to Approach the Prompt

Tip 1: Reflect deeply on your personal experiences.
Consider how your upbringing, culture, or community has influenced your perspective. Highlight specific moments or lessons that shaped your values.

Tip 2: Connect personal insights to professional aspirations.
Illustrate how your background motivates the problems you want to address, whether in research, innovation, or societal impact.

Tip 3: Be authentic and specific.
Avoid generic responses. Instead, detail unique aspects of your background and their relevance to your future goals.

Tip 4: Highlight collaboration and societal impact.
Show how your experiences prepare you to work effectively with diverse teams and how your work can create positive change.

Strong Example #1: Connecting Cultural Roots to Environmental Innovation

Growing up in a small rural village in India, I was intimately familiar with the challenges of water scarcity. Every year, my family anxiously awaited the monsoon rains, knowing our ability to drink, farm, and sustain life depended on it. These struggles weren’t just statistics to me; they were my daily reality. This early exposure left an indelible mark on me, sparking a curiosity about the relationship between humans and natural resources.

In school, I began learning about environmental science and quickly realized the depth of the issue wasn’t limited to my village—globally, water scarcity affects millions. Determined to make a difference, I entered my high school science fair with a rainwater harvesting project. I designed a system that was both affordable and effective, earning state-level recognition. This experience helped me see the potential of my ideas in addressing real-world challenges and inspired me to think bigger.

At the same time, I became keenly aware of how my cultural roots influenced my perspective. Traditional water-conservation methods, like collecting rainwater in ceramic jars, were often overlooked in modern solutions. I began advocating for an approach that combined traditional knowledge with modern technology. This commitment to bridging cultural practices and scientific innovation has become a defining feature of my academic journey.

My aspirations now extend far beyond my village. I want to become an environmental engineer who designs sustainable water systems for underserved communities. I believe collaboration is essential in achieving this goal, as solutions must be scientifically sound and culturally respectful. Working with diverse teams will allow me to create systems that address both technical and human needs effectively.

At Harvey Mudd, I hope to refine my technical skills while collaborating with peers who share a global vision. By combining my cultural perspective with the college’s interdisciplinary approach, I believe I can contribute to impactful solutions that address water scarcity and create lasting change.

Why This Essay Works

This essay effectively connects Priya’s personal experiences to her future goals in environmental engineering. 

By weaving her cultural roots, academic interests, and a clear vision for the future into a cohesive narrative, she demonstrates a strong alignment with Harvey Mudd’s mission to develop leaders with a deep understanding of societal impact. 

The essay’s humanized tone makes her story both relatable and inspiring.

Strong Example #2: From Family Traditions to Biomedical Innovation

Family dinners in my house were more than just meals—they were lessons in compassion and resilience. My mother, a nurse, often shared stories about her patients battling chronic illnesses. She emphasized how even small innovations could transform a patient’s life. These conversations sparked my interest in healthcare, not just as a subject of study but as a way to make tangible improvements in people’s lives.

The turning point for me came during my sophomore year of high school when I started volunteering at a free clinic. There, I saw the stark gaps in healthcare accessibility, especially for low-income patients managing chronic conditions like diabetes. It wasn’t just the cost of treatment that posed challenges—it was also the affordability and availability of essential tools, like blood glucose monitors. Witnessing this made me realize how affordability often dictated whether patients could take control of their health.

Determined to address this issue, I pursued independent research on low-cost biosensors for glucose monitoring. I explored materials science and investigated how emerging technologies could reduce production costs while maintaining accuracy. This research culminated in a prototype that I presented at a regional science fair, where it received recognition for its innovation and practicality. More importantly, this project solidified my passion for biomedical engineering and its potential to bridge the gap between technology and accessibility.

My long-term goal is to design affordable medical devices that empower patients to manage their health autonomously. I envision myself working on interdisciplinary teams to develop tools that combine advanced technology with real-world applicability. I want to ensure that the benefits of biomedical innovation are accessible to everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic background.

Harvey Mudd’s commitment to societal impact and collaborative learning makes it the ideal environment for me to achieve these aspirations. The college’s interdisciplinary approach will enable me to merge my engineering skills with a broader understanding of social responsibility, ensuring that my work has a meaningful and lasting impact.

Why This Essay Works

This essay stands out for its thoughtful narrative and clear alignment with Harvey Mudd’s values. Jason’s story connects personal experiences, academic interests, and future aspirations in a way that feels authentic and deeply intentional. His focus on societal impact, collaboration, and innovation directly reflects the qualities Harvey Mudd seeks in its students, making this essay both compelling and convincing.

Video: College Essay Tips from Admissions Counselors

Crafting a Compelling Response to Harvey Mudd Supplemental Essay Prompt # 2

Prompt #2

"Many students choose HMC because they don’t want to give up their interests in the Humanities, Social Sciences and the Arts – or HSA as we call it at HMC. Briefly describe what you'd like to learn about in your dream HSA class. (100 words or less)"

This prompt encourages applicants to illustrate their curiosity outside of STEM fields. Harvey Mudd values students who are not only strong in engineering and science but also embrace interdisciplinary learning. 

Your response should show how your interests in HSA enrich your academic journey and your ability to contribute to diverse discussions on campus.

Tips on How to Approach the Prompt

Tip 1: Identify a specific interest or passion.
Reflect on what excites you in the Humanities, Social Sciences, or Arts. Whether it's a historical topic, a cultural movement, or a creative skill, choose something you’re genuinely interested in.

Tip 2: Imagine a unique, meaningful course.
Think beyond generic topics. Propose a class that highlights your personality or connects to your values. For instance, “The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in Pop Culture” or “Storytelling Through Modern Music.”

Tip 3: Be concise and creative.
Since the word count is limited, every sentence must add value. Clearly outline your idea and why it matters to you without unnecessary details.

Tip 4: Tie it back to your broader academic goals.
Show how your dream class would expand your perspective, complement your STEM focus, or impact your future career or research.

Strong Example #1: "The Science of Storytelling in Ancient Myths"

I have always been fascinated by the power of storytelling. Growing up, I was captivated by ancient myths from cultures around the world—Greek gods, Norse legends, and Hindu epics. These stories didn’t just entertain; they conveyed universal truths about human nature and societal values. 

As I dive deeper into these narratives, I realized how much they had in common despite originating in vastly different contexts. Their ability to transcend time and culture sparked my curiosity: What makes these stories so enduring, and how do they continue to inspire innovation today?

My dream HSA class would explore the science of storytelling in ancient myths, focusing on the universal themes that unite cultures. We’d examine how these stories shaped societal structures, influenced historical decisions, and continue to inspire modern media. For instance, myths about creation and destruction could be tied to how humanity perceives natural cycles, influencing fields like ecology and sustainability. This interdisciplinary approach would reveal the subtle ways stories shape our understanding of the world.

One area of particular interest is how myths have inspired advancements in STEM. For example, many space missions draw from Greek mythology in their naming conventions, like NASA’s Artemis program. This demonstrates how science often draws upon human creativity and cultural legacy to communicate its goals. A class that connects mythology to modern scientific endeavors would provide a unique lens through which to view the intersection of art and science.

This course would also encourage students to analyze their cultural heritage through the lens of storytelling. By understanding how our backgrounds influence the way we perceive and create narratives, we can develop a deeper appreciation for the diversity of perspectives that drive innovation. Such a course would celebrate the richness of human experience while fostering collaboration across disciplines.

Why This Essay Works

This essay is personal, insightful, and well-rounded. It ties a genuine passion for storytelling to broader academic and societal themes, demonstrating intellectual curiosity and interdisciplinary thinking. By connecting mythology to STEM fields, the applicant shows a unique perspective that aligns with Harvey Mudd’s commitment to cultivating leaders with diverse interests.

Strong Example #2: "Art and Activism in the Digital Age"

Art has always been a window into society, reflecting its triumphs and struggles. From an early age, I’ve been drawn to how creative works can inspire action, particularly in the realm of social justice. During high school, I joined an art club that partnered with a local nonprofit to create posters for community events. 

While designing these works, I began to appreciate how visuals could evoke powerful emotions and rally people toward a common cause. This experience made me curious about the broader role of art in activism.

My dream HSA class would explore how social movements use art to drive change, especially in the digital age. We’d study historical examples, like the iconic images of the Civil Rights Movement, alongside modern campaigns that leverage social media to amplify marginalized voices. The course would analyze how art forms, from posters to digital graphics, adapt to the tools and challenges of their times. It would also explore the ethical dimensions of creating art for activism, such as ensuring authenticity and avoiding exploitation.

I’m particularly intrigued by how technology has transformed activism through platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Digital art campaigns have the potential to reach millions in a matter of hours, creating a global dialogue around pressing issues. For example, movements like #BlackLivesMatter has shown how visuals can raise awareness and mobilize action. A class examining these intersections would deepen my understanding of how art and technology shape public discourse.

This course would also resonate with my personal goals of integrating design into STEM solutions. As someone interested in engineering, I see a natural synergy between creative expression and problem-solving. Understanding the role of art in activism would allow me to design tools and technologies that not only solve problems but also communicate their impact effectively. This interdisciplinary perspective aligns perfectly with Harvey Mudd’s mission.

Why This Essay Works

This essay excels by presenting a strong narrative that combines personal experiences, intellectual curiosity, and societal impact. The applicant connects art and activism to technology and STEM, demonstrating interdisciplinary thinking and a commitment to making a difference. 

It’s creative, specific, and aligns with Harvey Mudd’s values, making it both relatable and impactful.

Final Tips for Crafting Harvey Mudd Essays

Approaching the Harvey Mudd essays requires precision and a genuine connection to the college’s ethos. These tips will help you craft essays that reflect your unique perspective, highlight your fit, and resonate with admissions officers.

Reflect Your Unique Voice

Your essay is a chance to tell your story—one only you can share. Admissions officers want to hear about your passions, challenges, and triumphs in your own words. Instead of writing what you think they want to hear, focus on experiences that have truly shaped you. 

For instance, if a science experiment you conducted in your garage sparked your curiosity about sustainability, share that moment and how it ties to your aspirations. Use your natural tone and voice to create an essay that feels genuine, relatable, and distinctly yours.

Demonstrate Fit Through Specifics

Harvey Mudd values students who not only excel academically but also align with its collaborative, interdisciplinary mission. To demonstrate fit, highlight specific aspects of the college that resonate with you. 

Instead of saying you admire Harvey Mudd’s “innovative programs,” discuss how the Mathematics Clinic excites you because it offers real-world problem-solving experiences, or how the Core Curriculum aligns with your desire to develop a well-rounded perspective in STEM and the humanities. Connecting these offerings to your personal goals makes your application more compelling and memorable.

Prioritize Clarity and Focus

Admissions officers read thousands of essays, so clarity is crucial. Each sentence should serve a purpose, whether it’s illustrating your passion, demonstrating fit, or showcasing your potential. Avoid cramming too many ideas into one essay, as this can dilute your message.

For example, if you’re discussing a robotics competition, focus on what you learned about teamwork or problem-solving rather than listing every technical detail. A clear, focused essay not only keeps the reader engaged but also reinforces your ability to communicate effectively.

Showcase Collaborative Potential

Collaboration is central to Harvey Mudd’s learning environment, and your essay should reflect your ability to thrive in a team setting. Share a specific example of when you worked with others to achieve a common goal, such as leading a science fair project, organizing a community initiative, or contributing to a group research effort.

Highlight not just your role but how you navigated challenges, valued diverse perspectives, and celebrated shared successes. Show that you’re eager to contribute to the cooperative spirit that defines Harvey Mudd.

Proofread and Polish

Even the most compelling story can fall flat if it’s riddled with errors or lacks polish. After writing your essay, set it aside for a day or two before revisiting it with fresh eyes. Read it aloud to catch awkward phrasing or unclear ideas. 

Use tools like spell-checkers but don’t rely solely on them—grammar nuances and tone require human judgment. Seeking feedback from a trusted teacher, mentor, or friend can also provide valuable insights. A well-written, error-free essay not only reflects your attention to detail but also demonstrates your respect for the application process.

Video: College Essay Tips + Writing your Best College Essay | Real Advice from Harvard Admissions

Conclusion:

Writing your Harvey Mudd essays is more than a checklist—it's a chance to authentically present your goals and values while showcasing how they align with the college’s unique mission. 

Use this guide to craft responses that reflect genuine enthusiasm and a clear understanding of what Harvey Mudd offers. Ready to make an impression? Start drafting now and turn your essays into a powerful statement about your future!

And then you’re already off to the races. Empowerly believes in you. We’re more than happy to support your family at any stage of the process, whether that’s deciding whether you honestly think you would thrive at a school like HMC, or finding the perfect university you’ve never heard of.

If you want to be part of the 13% that gets to call Harvey Mudd home, start now.

Ready to turn your college admission dreams into reality? Join the 98% of students who have worked with Empowerly and been accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools. Our college counselors are the best-rated in the country and have proven to improve college admission rates by 11x. Book your FREE consultation today. 

Additional Resources

• Top 40 College Essay Ideas and Topics: Need help brainstorming essay topics? This guide offers diverse and thought-provoking ideas to kickstart your writing and make your application stand out.

• College Application Help: 15 Tips to Help You Succeed: Applying to colleges can be overwhelming, but this article breaks down the process into actionable steps. From managing deadlines to crafting essays, it covers everything you need to succeed.

• The Best Art Schools in the US: Curious about institutions outside of STEM? Explore this list of top art schools to broaden your options and find the perfect fit for your creative aspirations.

The post Essay Scoop: How to Answer Harvey Mudd Essays appeared first on Empowerly.

Standing out in a pool of top-performing applicants can feel nearly impossible. You may worry that your story isn’t impressive enough or fear that your essays won’t reflect your full potential.

This guide is here to change that. You’ll learn how to transform your personal experiences into essays that not only answer the prompts but also make your application unforgettable.

What Are UC Essay Prompts?

The University of California requires students to answer four of eight Personal Insight Questions (PIQs). Each prompt allows you to showcase a unique aspect of yourself, helping admissions officers gain a fuller picture of who you are. Below is a concise overview of the eight prompts, including their key themes and tips to help you decide which ones to answer.

Leadership Experience

Discuss a leadership role where you made a significant impact on a team or project, focusing not just on the position held but on the leadership skills you employed. Highlight how this experience showcased your ability to inspire, motivate, and bring about tangible results.

Prompt: “Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time”

Pro Tip: Choose a leadership example that highlights your ability to overcome a difficult situation while maintaining team cohesion.

Strong Example: 

During my senior year of high school, I served as the captain of the school robotics team, a role that tested my leadership skills more than any other experience to date. Our team faced a critical challenge during the regional robotics competition, an event we had prepared for throughout the year. Early in the competition, our robot began to malfunction due to a software error, which threw our initial strategy into disarray and dampened the team’s morale.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, I convened an emergency meeting with the team’s programmers and engineers. I facilitated a focused troubleshooting session where we analyzed the malfunction and brainstormed potential solutions. By encouraging open communication and fostering a supportive environment, I helped the team maintain cohesion and stay focused under pressure. This collaborative effort led to the identification of a coding error that was quickly corrected by our programmers.

With the robot functioning again, we adjusted our competition strategy to compensate for the time lost. I took the initiative to rally the team, reinforcing the importance of resilience and adaptability. My role involved not just strategic oversight but also providing emotional support, which was crucial in maintaining team spirit. I led by example, demonstrating calm and collected decision-making, which inspired confidence among team members.

The competition concluded with our team making a remarkable comeback to finish in second place, a significant achievement considering the difficulties we faced. This experience underscored the importance of effective leadership in crisis situations and taught me valuable lessons in managing team dynamics and problem-solving under pressure. It was a testament to our team’s resilience and my growth as a leader, proving that with the right leadership approach, challenges can be transformed into opportunities for success.

Creative Side

Detail how your creativity has been a driving force in problem-solving or artistic expression, connecting these endeavors to both personal and professional growth. Mention how this creativity has set you apart in various settings, whether in academics, work, or personal projects.

Prompt: “Describe an instance where your creativity played a pivotal role in solving a complex problem or achieving a significant milestone. Highlight how your innovative approach stood out and contributed to personal or team success, and connect this experience to your growth”

Pro Tip: Select an instance where your creative approach directly contributed to a project’s success or solved a complex problem.

Strong Example: 

During my junior year in college, I participated in a community sustainability initiative aimed at reducing waste in local restaurants. The project’s main challenge was to encourage restaurants to adopt eco-friendly practices without imposing additional costs on their operations. As a design enthusiast and problem-solver, I proposed creating a customizable digital toolkit that restaurants could use to implement sustainable changes tailored to their needs.

I started by designing a series of visually appealing and easy-to-understand infographics that outlined low-cost waste management strategies, such as composting and reusable packaging options. To make the toolkit more engaging, I incorporated a gamification element where restaurants could track their progress on a mobile app I conceptualized. By completing sustainability milestones, they earned digital badges that could be displayed to customers, showcasing their commitment to the environment.

The creativity didn’t stop there. I also suggested a social media campaign featuring customer stories about reducing waste while dining out, encouraging a community-wide dialogue. My role extended to collaborating with a local app developer to create the first prototype of the digital toolkit. The app and campaign not only attracted participation from ten restaurants but also gained attention from local news outlets, further amplifying the initiative’s reach.

This experience taught me the value of thinking creatively to address complex challenges and demonstrated how innovation could foster positive change. The project’s success reinforced my passion for using design and problem-solving skills to drive meaningful impact, a principle I continue to apply in my academic and personal endeavors.

Greatest Talent or Skill

Discuss a specific talent or skill that you have developed over time, emphasizing how this skill has impacted your personal or professional life. Provide insight into the dedication required to hone this skill and the benefits it has brought.

Prompt: “Describe a talent or skill you have honed over time and how it has shaped your personal or professional growth. Highlight a specific moment of recognition or achievement that underscores the impact of this ability”

Pro Tip: Focus on a skill that has brought you recognition or has been instrumental in your achievements.

Strong Example: 

Since childhood, I have had a passion for public speaking, but it wasn’t until high school that I actively began refining this skill. Through participation in debate club, school assemblies, and leadership roles, I practiced crafting persuasive arguments, engaging audiences, and adapting my tone to connect with diverse groups. What started as an interest grew into a skill that would profoundly influence my personal and academic journey.

In my senior year, I had the opportunity to represent my school at a statewide debate competition. Our topic, centered around renewable energy policies, required extensive research and the ability to present complex ideas clearly and convincingly. During the final round, I used an unconventional approach by incorporating storytelling techniques to illustrate the human impact of energy policies, which resonated deeply with the judges and audience alike.

My team won first place, and I was recognized as the competition’s best speaker. This achievement not only validated my dedication to honing my public speaking skills but also opened new doors, including an invitation to join a national youth leadership summit. The experience reinforced the power of effective communication in driving meaningful change and inspired me to mentor younger students in developing their speaking abilities.

Public speaking has become more than a skill; it’s a core part of who I am. It has empowered me to lead confidently, advocate for causes I care about, and build meaningful connections with others. This journey continues to shape my academic and career aspirations, reminding me that dedication and passion can transform any talent into a powerful tool for success.

Educational Opportunity or Barrier

Reflect on a significant educational experience that either presented a major challenge or offered a valuable opportunity, and how this experience has influenced your educational trajectory. Describe the skills and knowledge gained through overcoming or seizing this educational moment.

Prompt: “Describe an educational challenge or opportunity that significantly influenced your academic journey. Highlight how you overcame the obstacle or leveraged the opportunity to grow personally and academically”

Pro Tip: Highlight an educational barrier you turned into an opportunity for growth, showcasing resilience and adaptability.

Strong Example: 

During my freshman year of college, I encountered an unexpected obstacle when a sudden family emergency forced me to take on additional responsibilities at home. Balancing my coursework in engineering with the demands of managing household tasks and supporting my siblings felt overwhelming at times. My grades began to slip, and I feared that my dream of excelling in college might be out of reach.

Determined to adapt, I sought help from my professors and academic advisors. Together, we developed a plan that allowed me to manage my time more effectively, including reducing my course load temporarily and utilizing on-campus resources like tutoring services. I also discovered creative ways to integrate my studies into my daily responsibilities, such as practicing physics principles during household repairs, which not only helped me learn but also supported my family.

By the end of that semester, I had regained my academic footing and even found ways to help my siblings with their schoolwork, inspiring them to persevere through their own challenges. My ability to balance these responsibilities and adapt to the situation strengthened my time management and problem-solving skills, which have since become invaluable in my academic journey.

This experience taught me resilience and the importance of seeking support when needed. It also deepened my appreciation for education and its transformative power, motivating me to assist others facing similar struggles by volunteering as a peer mentor at my university.

Significant Challenge

Share a narrative about a significant personal or community challenge you faced, detailing both the approach you took to address it and the outcomes achieved. Focus on the resilience shown and the lessons learned that have shaped your perspective and actions.

Prompt: “Describe a significant personal or community challenge you faced. Detail the steps you took to address the issue, the impact of your actions, and the lessons learned that have shaped your perspective”

Pro Tip: Select a challenge that highlights your problem-solving skills and ability to adapt under pressure.

Strong Example: 

In my junior year of high school, our town experienced a severe power outage following a major snowstorm, leaving many families without heat, light, or communication. The situation was particularly dire for elderly residents and families with young children, as temperatures continued to drop. Witnessing this, I felt compelled to act and quickly mobilized a group of friends to create a community response effort.

We began by using social media to organize volunteers and identify families in need. With the help of a local community center, we established a temporary shelter stocked with blankets, food, and basic supplies. I coordinated efforts to check on isolated residents, leveraging our team’s connections with neighbors and local authorities. When we discovered several households without transportation, I worked with other volunteers to set up a carpool system to bring those residents to safety.

Despite initial logistical hurdles, our efforts brought immediate relief to dozens of families. We not only provided essential resources but also created a network of support that helped the community feel less isolated during the crisis. The success of our initiative inspired local officials to develop a more formal emergency preparedness plan for future events.

This experience taught me the value of quick thinking, teamwork, and perseverance in the face of challenges. It also deepened my commitment to community service and showed me that even in the most difficult situations, individuals can make a meaningful difference through collective effort and determination.

Academic Passion

Elaborate on an academic subject that deeply interests you, discussing how you have pursued this interest through coursework and independent study. Explain how this passion aligns with your future career aspirations and personal development.

Prompt: “Describe an academic subject you are deeply passionate about, detailing how you have explored it beyond the classroom and how it connects to your future aspirations”

Pro Tip: Discuss how your academic interest has motivated you to go beyond the classroom in pursuit of knowledge.

Strong Example: 

From a young age, I have been fascinated by astronomy, captivated by the mysteries of the universe and the sheer scale of celestial phenomena. In high school, this passion led me to enroll in advanced physics and mathematics courses, where I gained the foundational knowledge necessary to understand the mechanics of space exploration. However, I wanted to take my interest further than classroom discussions and textbooks.

During my junior year, I initiated a project to map light pollution levels in our city using open-source satellite data and handheld sensors. I worked with a local astronomy club to collect data from various neighborhoods and used GIS software to create an interactive map that highlighted areas most affected by light pollution. The findings were shared with city officials, sparking discussions about implementing policies to reduce unnecessary artificial lighting.

This hands-on experience deepened my understanding of both the scientific and environmental aspects of astronomy. It also inspired me to pursue an internship at a local observatory, where I assisted in tracking asteroid movements and analyzing data from telescopes. These opportunities solidified my desire to study astrophysics in college and eventually contribute to research on sustainable space exploration.

Through these experiences, I’ve learned that my passion for astronomy isn’t just about studying stars—it’s about using scientific inquiry to solve real-world problems and inspire others to appreciate the wonders of the universe. This passion continues to fuel my academic journey and shapes my vision for the future.

Community Contribution

Explain how you have actively contributed to your community, detailing specific actions you’ve taken and the positive impacts of these actions. Highlight how these contributions have not only helped others but also helped you grow as a person.

Prompt: “Describe a meaningful contribution you have made to your community, focusing on the specific actions you took and the measurable impact they had. Highlight how this experience influenced your personal growth”

Pro Tip: Choose contributions that have had a measurable impact on the community, showing a before and after scenario.

Strong Example: 

When I noticed the growing issue of digital illiteracy among older adults in my neighborhood, I realized there was a gap that needed addressing. Many seniors struggled with tasks like using smartphones, accessing online services, and staying connected with family members. To bridge this gap, I organized a “Digital Literacy for Seniors” program at our local library.

I started by designing a curriculum that covered basic skills, such as setting up email accounts, navigating social media, and using video calling apps. Recruiting a group of friends as volunteer tutors, we held weekly sessions where seniors could learn at their own pace. To ensure the program was accessible, I secured donations of refurbished tablets and laptops from local businesses.

The results were transformative. Over the course of six months, more than 50 seniors completed the program, with many expressing how the newfound skills had improved their lives. One participant shared how she could now video call her grandchildren regularly, while another found it easier to manage online banking. The community also benefited, as the program fostered stronger connections between generations.

This initiative not only made a tangible difference in the lives of others but also taught me the value of empathy, patience, and the power of community-driven solutions. It deepened my appreciation for the impact of education and inspired me to continue developing projects that empower others through knowledge and connection.

What Makes You Stand Out

Highlight a unique trait, experience, or achievement that distinguishes you from other candidates, focusing on elements not previously mentioned. Describe how this uniqueness contributes to your overall character and value as a candidate.

Prompt: “Describe a unique experience, trait, or achievement that sets you apart from others. Focus on how this has shaped your perspective, values, and the contributions you bring to a community or team”

Pro Tip: Identify something truly unique to your experiences or perspective that could be a game-changer in your applications.

Strong Example: 

During high school, I developed a deep interest in storytelling, which inspired me to write and direct a short film about mental health awareness. What made this experience unique wasn’t just the subject matter but the collaborative approach I took to create the project. Instead of relying solely on my perspective, I worked with peers who had firsthand experiences with mental health challenges, ensuring that the film accurately represented diverse voices and experiences.

The production process was both challenging and rewarding. I organized a team of students with different skill sets, from cinematography to editing, and facilitated open discussions about the script to refine its authenticity. To fund the project, I launched a crowdfunding campaign that exceeded its goal, allowing us to enhance the quality of the film and host a community screening.

The film’s impact was profound. At the screening, audience members shared how the project resonated with them, sparking important conversations about mental health in our school and community. The experience not only solidified my passion for storytelling as a tool for advocacy but also taught me the power of collaboration and empathy in creating meaningful work.

What sets me apart is my ability to turn creative ideas into impactful projects that address real-world issues. This experience has shaped my approach to problem-solving and continues to inspire me to use my skills to make a positive difference in the world.

The production process was both challenging and rewarding. I organized a team of students with different skill sets, from cinematography to editing, and facilitated open discussions about the script to refine its authenticity. To fund the project, I launched a crowdfunding campaign that exceeded its goal, allowing us to enhance the quality of the film and host a community screening.

The film’s impact was profound. At the screening, audience members shared how the project resonated with them, sparking important conversations about mental health in our school and community. The experience not only solidified my passion for storytelling as a tool for advocacy but also taught me the power of collaboration and empathy in creating meaningful work.

What sets me apart is my ability to turn creative ideas into impactful projects that address real-world issues. This experience has shaped my approach to problem-solving and continues to inspire me to use my skills to make a positive difference in the world.

Video: How To Write ALL 8 UC PIQ Essay Prompts (No BS, Pure Gold)

Why UC Berkeley?

Video: Choosing Berkeley

Beyond the classroom, the vibrant Bay Area community in close proximity to other top universities and the Silicon Valley make this campus a very attractive option for young scholars looking for a launchpad into their future. With all these resources on the table, it’s no surprise the admissions readers must be picky.

Here’s the good news: the entire University of California state school system evaluates applicants holistically, which means that your personal character is one of the most important deciding factors. Demonstrating your drive, commitment, and work ethic are key.

Understanding UC Berkeley’s Approach to Personal Insight Questions

UC Berkeley’s Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) are designed to evaluate not just your academic abilities but also your personal qualities, aspirations, and values. The admissions process is holistic, meaning these essays are your chance to provide depth to your application and demonstrate how you’ll contribute to the campus community.

Key Principles Behind the PIQs

1. Holistic Evaluation UC Berkeley aims to build a diverse and dynamic student body. The PIQs allow you to showcase your individuality and provide insights into your life that grades and test scores cannot capture.
   
2. Equal Weight for All Questions Each essay is equally important, meaning your choice of questions should reflect areas where you can most authentically showcase your strengths, experiences, and perspectives.
   
3. A Chance to Demonstrate Fit Your essays should highlight your readiness to thrive in UC Berkeley’s intellectually stimulating, resource-rich environment. Show your commitment to learning, community engagement, and pursuing your passions.

Purpose of the UC Berkeley PIQs

• Reveal Your Story: UC Berkeley uses the PIQs to learn about your motivations, resilience, and how you engage with the world around you.
  
• Showcase Self-Awareness: Reflection is key. Your answers should demonstrate that you can analyze your experiences and articulate their significance in your life.
  
• Illustrate Potential: The admissions committee is looking for students who will contribute meaningfully to the UC Berkeley community and beyond.

Tips for Crafting Effective UC Berkeley PIQs

Choose Prompts Strategically

Selecting the right prompts is critical to creating a compelling and well-rounded application. Each prompt offers an opportunity to highlight different aspects of your identity, so choose ones that allow you to present your academic achievements, personal growth, and extracurricular involvement. Avoid repeating the same experiences across multiple essays. 

Instead, aim to balance your responses to cover diverse areas of your personality and experiences. By doing so, you create a cohesive narrative that demonstrates your depth and versatility.

Consider which prompts best align with your strengths and values. If leadership is one of your strongest attributes, for instance, choose a prompt where you can illustrate those abilities effectively. Similarly, if you have a unique talent or skill that sets you apart, prioritize a question that allows you to showcase it. Strategic prompt selection ensures each essay complements the others, collectively painting a complete picture of who you are.

Keep Essays Concise and Impactful

With only 350 words per essay, every sentence needs to count. Begin by identifying the key points you want to convey and focus on delivering them with clarity and precision. Avoid overly elaborate introductions or unnecessary backstory—jump straight into the core of your narrative. 

This not only ensures you stay within the word limit but also keeps your essay engaging and easy to follow.

To make your essays impactful, prioritize examples and reflections that reveal your personality and growth. Use vivid details to illustrate your experiences but avoid tangents that detract from your main message. A concise, well-crafted essay that is both clear and reflective will resonate more strongly with admissions officers than one overloaded with extraneous details.

Reflect Berkeley’s Core Values

UC Berkeley’s admissions team looks for students who embody intellectual curiosity, social responsibility, and resilience. Use your essays to demonstrate how you align with these values. For example, intellectual curiosity can be shown through your passion for exploring a specific subject or undertaking independent research. 

Social responsibility might be illustrated through community service, activism, or other initiatives that showcase your dedication to helping others.

When discussing resilience, focus on challenges you’ve faced and how you overcame them, emphasizing the lessons learned and how these experiences prepared you for a rigorous academic environment. By reflecting these values in your essays, you not only highlight your fit for Berkeley but also show that you understand and align with the institution’s culture and mission.

Create Compelling Narratives

Storytelling is a powerful way to engage admissions officers and make your essays memorable. Each essay should read like a short narrative, complete with a beginning, middle, and end. Start with a strong hook—such as an anecdote, surprising statement, or thought-provoking observation—that grabs the reader’s attention. 

From there, introduce the challenge or situation, describe your actions, and conclude with the resolution and your reflections.

The narrative structure helps provide clarity and flow to your essays while making them more relatable. It also allows you to emphasize key moments and insights that shaped your growth. By crafting compelling stories that connect to your larger goals, you create essays that leave a lasting impression.

Be Specific and Authentic

Generic statements won’t stand out to admissions officers, so focus on providing specific examples that illustrate your points. Rather than simply stating that you are a leader or problem-solver, describe a situation where you demonstrated these qualities. 

Include tangible details, such as the steps you took to address a problem or the measurable outcomes of your efforts, to make your essays come to life.

Authenticity is equally important. Write in your natural voice and avoid overly formal or flowery language. Your essays should sound like you—genuine, thoughtful, and reflective. Admissions officers are looking for students who are real and relatable, so let your unique personality shine through in your writing.

Ensure Coherence Across Essays

While each essay should stand alone, together they should present a cohesive picture of who you are. Avoid repeating the same experiences across multiple prompts unless you’re presenting them from a completely different angle. 

Instead, aim to highlight various aspects of your identity, such as your academic passions, leadership experiences, creative pursuits, and resilience.

A balanced approach ensures your essays collectively address all facets of your personality. Additionally, consider how your essays align with the overarching themes or goals you want to communicate. For example, if your theme is innovation, ensure that each essay connects back to how you’ve approached challenges or opportunities creatively.

Connect Your Experiences to Berkeley

Your essays should demonstrate not only who you are but also why you’re a good fit for UC Berkeley. Research Berkeley’s programs, culture, and values to ensure your essays reflect how you will thrive in and contribute to their environment. 

Mention specific resources or opportunities, such as interdisciplinary programs, research initiatives, or student organizations, that align with your goals.

Tying your experiences to Berkeley shows that you’ve thoughtfully considered what the university has to offer. For instance, if you’re passionate about sustainability, mention how Berkeley’s renowned environmental science program aligns with your ambitions. Specificity demonstrates your interest in the school and helps admissions officers see you as a strong candidate for their community.

Edit for Clarity and Precision

Strong essays are the result of careful editing and refinement. Start by writing freely to get your ideas on paper, then review your draft with an eye for clarity and coherence. Eliminate redundancies and ensure each sentence contributes to the overall message. 

Reading your essay aloud can help you identify awkward phrasing or areas that need improvement.

Seek feedback from trusted mentors, teachers, or peers who can provide constructive criticism. They can help you identify areas that may be unclear or where you might need to elaborate. Polished, error-free writing reflects your attention to detail and commitment to presenting your best self.

End With a Forward-Looking Statement

Your conclusion is the final impression you leave on admissions officers, so make it impactful. Avoid summarizing your essay; instead, use this space to reflect on how the experience has shaped you and how it connects to your future goals.

A forward-looking statement demonstrates your ambition and vision for your time at Berkeley and beyond.

For example, you might end by discussing how a challenge you overcame has inspired your academic interests or career aspirations. This leaves the reader with a sense of purpose and direction, tying your experiences to the opportunities you hope to pursue at Berkeley.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in UC Berkeley Essays

Many applicants unintentionally weaken their chances by making avoidable errors in their essays. To ensure your responses are impactful, steer clear of these common pitfalls.

1. Choosing the Wrong Prompts

Choosing prompts based on perceived difficulty rather than personal connection often leads to generic or uninspired responses.Instead, focus on prompts that genuinely resonate with your experiences, values, and goals. Select topics where you can share meaningful anecdotes that highlight unique aspects of your character and allow you to authentically showcase who you are.

2. Being Vague or Generic

Broad statements like “I’m passionate about helping others” lack impact when not backed by specific examples. Instead, make your essays vivid and personal by describing particular moments that illustrate your passion. For instance, recount a time when you made a meaningful difference in someone’s life through direct action, showing your commitment rather than just stating it.

3. Overloading with Achievements

Simply listing accomplishments in your essays without depth reduces their impact and feels like an extended resume. Focus on the significance of each experience, the challenges you faced, and how it shaped your perspective. Providing context and reflection gives your achievements a human touch, making them more memorable and meaningful.

4. Forgetting to Answer the Prompt

Even the most impressive story can miss the mark if it doesn’t address the question directly. Stay focused by continually tying your response back to the prompt. After completing your draft, revisit the question to ensure your essay provides a clear and relevant answer while staying on track.

5. Repeating Information

Rehashing details from other parts of your application, such as extracurriculars or awards, misses an opportunity to provide new insights. Use the essay to delve deeper, sharing emotions, lessons learned, or behind-the-scenes challenges. Each essay should enhance your narrative by adding fresh dimensions to your story.

6. Rushing Through the Process

Starting late often leads to rushed essays that lack depth and polish. To avoid this, break the process into manageable steps: selecting prompts, brainstorming ideas, drafting, and revising. Starting early gives you the time needed to refine your responses and ensure they reflect your best work.

7. Overemphasizing Flaws

While it’s important to address challenges, focusing solely on failures without demonstrating growth can leave a negative impression. Balance your narrative by highlighting the lessons learned and how you’ve used these experiences to grow stronger. Admissions committees value resilience and maturity, so show how you’ve moved forward.

8. Using Clichés or Overused Themes

Writing about generic topics, such as winning a game or volunteering, without a fresh perspective risks blending in with other essays. Instead, emphasize what made your experience unique, whether it’s a surprising lesson or a moment that reshaped your thinking. A distinct angle can transform even a common theme into a memorable story.

9. Ignoring Word Limits

Exceeding or drastically falling short of the 350-word limit can detract from your essay’s quality. Aim to stay within 10% of the limit by trimming unnecessary details or elaborating on key points. A well-balanced essay respects the word count while delivering a complete and impactful narrative.

10. Failing to Proofread

Submitting essays with grammatical errors or inconsistencies can detract from their overall quality. Always proofread thoroughly, ideally with fresh eyes or feedback from someone you trust. Ensure your tone remains professional, polished, and reflective of your best work to leave a lasting impression.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be better equipped to write essays that truly reflect your strengths and aspirations. In the next section, we’ll discuss how to align your essays with UC Berkeley’s values and expectations for a standout application.

Video: READING THE UC ESSAYS THAT GOT ME INTO UC BERKELEY, UCSD, UCD

In conclusion

You’ve got this. And once you’ve got some ideas, reach out to the Empowerly team to ask about our essay writing support services! From completely digital access to our Essay Editor team, to working with a coach to discuss and brainstorm your writing, we have resources to help. 

As well as an entire database of previously accepted essays for you to browse, we know what actually helps students produce a successful personal statement and well-rounded application! Good luck with those UC Berkeley essays. You can do it.

Work with Us!

Ready to turn your college admission dreams into reality? Join the 98% of students who have worked with Empowerly and been accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools. Our college counselors are the best-rated in the country and have proven to improve college admission rates by 11x. Book your FREE consultation today. 

FAQ’s

Should I apply to all the UCs? How should I choose if I’m not applying to all of them?

It’s not necessary to apply to all the UCs unless they all align with your academic and personal goals. Focus on campuses that match your interests, intended major, and campus vibe. Start by researching their unique programs, location, and extracurricular opportunities. If you’re unsure, aim for a mix of highly competitive UCs and those with slightly higher acceptance rates to keep your options open.

I attend a competitive high school in California—does this ruin my shot at getting into the highest-ranked UCs (e.g., UC Berkeley and UCLA)?

Not at all! UC admissions consider your achievements in the context of your school environment. Attending a competitive high school can work in your favor because the UCs recognize the rigor of your courses and how you stand out among your peers. Focus on excelling in your academics, writing compelling essays, and highlighting unique extracurriculars or personal experiences.

What not to do on UC PIQ?

Avoid writing generic responses or summarizing your resume—it’s a missed opportunity to tell your story. Stay away from overly dramatic or insincere narratives, as authenticity is key. Lastly, don’t ignore the prompt! Answer the question directly while showcasing your unique qualities and experiences.

Where can I learn more about the UC Berkeley application?

If you’d like to read through tips directly from Berkeley’s application website, be sure to read up on how they describe the purpose of the Personal Insight Questions here. The Berkeley website will have the most updated official news and published guidelines. It will give you a clearer picture on the qualities they are searching for in competitive applicants.

Where can I learn more about the UC Berkeley essays?

You can review tips for how to approach the questions (and technical details like word limits) on this page here. By providing so much contest and support for students approaching these short essays, you can already tell that they’re not trying to trick you–they just want to understand your mind better.  

Additional Resources

• Crafting unique and compelling UC Berkeley essays can feel overwhelming, but drawing inspiration from the Top 40 College Essay Ideas and Topics can help spark creativity and provide fresh perspectives.
• For those seeking additional guidance, consider the insights shared in 12 Tips for Finding the Best College Essay Coach (2024) to ensure your essays reflect your best self.
• Navigating the UC Berkeley application process? These College Application Help: 15 Tips to Help You Succeed offer practical advice to keep your application on track.

The post How to Answer the UC Berkeley Essays: Ultimate Guide appeared first on Empowerly.

The good news? It doesn’t have to be. With a bit of guidance, you can produce an essay that not only shines in content but also meets the formatting standards expected by admissions officers.

So, in this guide, I’ll walk you through how to format your college application essay while also sharing tips and examples to help you stand out from the crowd. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to present your story in a way that’s clear, compelling, and impactful.

Start With the Big Question: How Long Should My College Application Essay Be?

Before we dive into formatting, let’s tackle a common concern: How long should your college application essay be?

Colleges usually provide word count guidelines—most commonly between 500 and 650 words. It may feel tempting to stress about hitting that exact word count, but at this stage, focus more on brainstorming your ideas. A well-crafted story with clear insights is far more important than obsessing over the word limit in the early drafts.

That said, once you’ve written your essay, it’s crucial to fine-tune the length. Admissions officers often have only a few minutes to spend on each application, so you need to grab their attention and hold it. 

Every word should count. If the essay is too short, you may leave out key aspects of your story. If it’s too long, you risk losing their interest.

Formatting 101: How Should a College Essay Be Formatted?

You’ve put together a strong draft. Now, it’s time to format it properly. Don’t let formatting trip you up—follow these basic guidelines to make your essay easy to read and professional:

• Font: Stick with standard fonts like Times New Roman, Calibri, or Arial in 12-point size. These fonts are easy on the eyes and give your essay a clean, polished look.
• Spacing: Use double-spacing. This makes your essay easier to read and allows space for notes if needed.
• Margins: Set your margins to 1 inch on all sides. This is the default in most word processors.
• Indentations: When starting a new paragraph, indent by hitting the tab key once.
• File Format: If you’re uploading a document, save it as a PDF. This ensures your formatting won’t get altered during submission.

However, many application platforms ask you to copy and paste your essay into a text box, which can strip away formatting like bold or italics. In that case, rely on clear, vivid writing to convey emphasis rather than formatting styles.

Video: Essay Formatting Tips

Mastering Your College Application Essay: Writing Tips

Choose the Perfect Topic

What to Include: Choosing the right topic is key to making your essay stand out. Focus on personal stories that highlight who you are, not just what you’ve done. Avoid common topics like general success or mission trips—find unique angles on experiences that shaped your character.

Example: Did a summer job teach you more about leadership than school ever could? Use that story to show your growth.

Pick the Structure for your College Essay: Narrative vs. Montage

What to Include: There are two effective essay structures: narrative and montage.

• Narrative: Focuses on a single event or challenge you overcame, showing growth along the way.
• Montage: Links several experiences or passions through a common theme, like creativity or curiosity.

Example: Narrative – Overcoming fear during a public speaking event. Montage – Showing how art, debate, and volunteering all reflect your passion for communication.

Brainstorm Techniques to Help You Get Started

What to Include: Jump-start your writing with these brainstorming methods:

• Mind Mapping: Start with a central idea and branch out with connected experiences.
• Freewriting: Set a timer and write without stopping—let your thoughts flow.
• Essence Object Exercise: List objects that represent important aspects of your life.

Example: Think of a memorable object (like a worn-out soccer ball) and write about what it symbolizes in your journey.

H3: Incorporate Personal Growth and Insight

What to Include: Personal growth should be the core of your essay. Explain how challenges shaped your perspective or drove you toward your goals. Always answer the "so what?" of your story—how did this experience change you?

Example: Don’t just say you struggled with a subject—show how mastering it sparked your passion for problem-solving.

Aim to Demonstrate Traits That College Admissions Officers Look For

What to Include: Admissions officers are looking for:

• Authenticity: Be yourself; don’t write what you think they want to hear.
• Passion: Highlight genuine enthusiasm for your chosen field.
• Contribution: Show how you’ll bring unique value to the campus community.

Example: A student passionate about environmental science might share how they organized a local beach cleanup, showing leadership and commitment.

Essay Examples and Analysis

What to Include: Include brief essay excerpts that highlight effective storytelling. Explain what makes them work, such as clear structure, engaging details, and personal reflection.

Example: “Every Saturday morning, I laced up my sneakers and headed to the park. It wasn’t about soccer—it was about proving to myself I could keep going, even when the world said otherwise.” – This reveals determination and grit.

Revise and Refine Your Essay

What to Include: Revision is crucial. Follow these steps:

1. Flow and Clarity: Does the essay make sense from start to finish?
2. Relevance: Does every paragraph relate to the central theme?
3. Word Choice: Are there more specific or impactful ways to phrase things?
4. Feedback: Have someone review your essay and offer suggestions.

Example: Replace vague phrases like "I worked on a project" with specific descriptions like "I led a team of three in creating an interactive app."

Make Sure You Handle Sensitive Topics

What to Include: Sensitive topics like family struggles, health issues, or political views should be handled with care. Focus on how the experience shaped your character or perspective, rather than on the details of the event itself.

Example: If writing about a family illness, emphasize how it taught you resilience and inspired your interest in medicine.

Use Feedback Effectively

What to Include: Constructive feedback is key to improving your essay. When getting feedback:

• Listen for Clarity: Did your reviewer understand the story you’re telling?
• Check for Authenticity: Does it still sound like you?
• Refine, Don’t Rewrite: Incorporate suggestions without losing your voice.

Example: If someone says a section feels rushed, add a sentence or two for better flow, but make sure it still sounds like your words

Video: College Essay Tips + Writing your Best College Essay | Real Advice from Harvard Admissions

 Crafting a Narrative: How to Organize Your College Application Essay

A successful college application essay is more than just proper formatting—it’s about telling a story that reflects who you are. But how do you structure that story effectively? Here’s a simple breakdown to keep your thoughts organized and your narrative flowing:

1. Start with a Hook

First impressions matter, and your essay’s opening line is your chance to grab the reader’s attention. Think about an engaging anecdote, a question, or even a thought-provoking statement that will draw them in immediately.

Example: “It was the moment I saw the red ‘X’ on the practice test that I realized I had been focusing on the wrong thing all along.”

This kind of opening immediately creates curiosity and makes the reader want to know more.

2. Explain Your Motivation

Once you’ve hooked the reader, it’s time to explain why you’re writing this essay. Why are you applying to college, and what are you hoping to achieve? Are you passionate about a particular subject or career path? Let the admissions committee see the driving force behind your application.

Example: “I’ve always been fascinated by how stories can change perspectives, and I want to explore this power through a degree in journalism.”

This gives a clear reason for why you’re passionate about your chosen field.

3. Highlight Your Academic Interests

Next, dive into your academic interests. Talk about the subjects that excite you and how they connect to your future goals. This is also a great place to explain how the college you're applying to aligns with these passions.

Example: “My love for biology began with my fascination with marine ecosystems, and I can’t wait to expand my knowledge in the environmental science program at your university.”

This shows the admissions officer not just what you’re interested in, but how their school can help you grow.

4. Showcase Your Extracurriculars

Colleges are looking for well-rounded students. Use this section to reflect on the activities outside the classroom that have shaped you. What have you learned from your leadership roles, community service, or creative endeavors?

Example: “As captain of the debate team, I learned not only how to construct a strong argument, but also how to listen with empathy and understanding—a skill that has influenced both my academic and personal life.”

This shows growth and maturity, connecting extracurriculars to personal development.

5. Wrap It Up with a Strong Conclusion

Your conclusion should bring everything together. Summarize your key points, but more importantly, leave the admissions committee with a lasting impression.

Example: “I’m eager to take the next step, continuing my journey at [University Name], where I know I can thrive academically and contribute meaningfully to the community.”

This reinforces your enthusiasm and confidence in how their school aligns with your goals.

Making Your Essay Stand Out

Finding the perfect topic for your essay can be tricky, but the key is to be authentic. Here are some exercises to help you brainstorm:

• Reflect on Core Values: What are your most deeply held beliefs, and how have they shaped your decisions or actions? Weave these into your story.
  
• The Essence Object Exercise: Think about objects that represent important parts of your identity. Is there something you can use to frame your story?
  
• Memorable Moments: Consider moments of growth, learning, or change. How did these experiences shape you?

Once you’ve settled on a topic, think about how to structure it. For example, a narrative essay focuses on a challenge you faced and how you overcame it, while a montage essay links several experiences together through a common theme. 

Both approaches work well, so choose the one that best fits your story.

Video: 8 Brainstorming Ideas for your Common App Essay / Personal Statement

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best writers can stumble into a few common pitfalls. Here are a few things to watch out for:

• Ignoring the Prompt: Make sure your essay fully answers the prompt or question posed by the college.
• Clichéd Topics: Steer clear of overused themes like “I want to help people” or generic success stories. Be specific and unique.
  
• Being All About You: Remember, colleges also want to know what you’ll bring to their community. How will your background or passions contribute to campus life?
  
• Failing to Proofread: Typos and grammatical errors can make even the best essay fall flat. Always give your essay a careful edit, and ask a trusted friend or mentor to review it too.

Polishing Your Essay: Final Edits and Proofreading

Once you’ve written and revised your essay, the last step is crucial: editing. Proofread carefully for spelling and grammar errors, but also ensure that every sentence adds value to your story. Is there a better way to phrase something? Does each paragraph transition smoothly into the next?

After reviewing your work, take a step back and read it aloud. Hearing your words can help you catch awkward phrasing or places where the flow is off.

Example of editing a sentence: Instead of saying, “I worked on many school projects and gained leadership skills,” try: “Leading my team through complex projects taught me how to balance collaboration and initiative—skills I’m eager to apply in college.”

This adds specificity and insight into the experience.

Final Thoughts: Own Your Story

Your college application essay is more than just another assignment—it’s your chance to let the admissions committee see beyond the numbers and get to know the real you. By focusing on authentic storytelling and presenting your essay in a clear, professional format, you’ll set yourself up for success.

Remember, your story is uniquely yours, so own it. Be confident in what you have to share, and let your voice shine through every word. You’ve got this!

If you need more personalized help crafting or formatting your essay, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for guidance. We’re here to help you put your best foot forward on this exciting journey.

Work WIth Us!

Ready to turn your college admission dreams into reality? Join the 98% of students who have worked with Empowerly and been accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools. Our college counselors are the best-rated in the country and have proven to improve college admission rates by 11x. Book your FREE consultation today. 

Additional Resources

When structuring your college essay, it’s important to choose a topic that resonates with you personally. If you're stuck, these Top 40 College Essay Ideas and Topics can inspire some fresh approaches to your writing.

Additionally, while refining your essay format, remember that a strong personal statement can make all the difference. Consider 12 Tips for Finding the Best College Essay Coach (2025) to guide you through the process.

And, as you prepare your application, it’s essential to showcase your academic strengths. For those aiming to improve their GPA, What Colleges Can I Get Into with a 3.5 GPA? might provide some useful insights.

The post College Application Essay Format & Structure: How to Nail It appeared first on Empowerly.

With increasing competition and the ever-growing importance of a stellar college essay, many families turn to college essay coaches for guidance and support. However, not all coaches are created equal and are a right fit for your student! In this blog post, we’ll explore 12 essential tips for finding the best college essay coach in 2024, helping you and your child find the right expertise for their goals and personality.

Before we begin, here’s an interesting video on why tackling essays alone can be challenging for any student as well as some of the ways to begin thinking about the essay writing and editing process!

Video: Ivy League coach reveals why HARVARD didn’t accept me

1. Check the College Essay Coach’s Credentials and Experience

When searching for a college essay coach to support your student through their journey, it’s important to explore their credentials and experience in writing and editing pieces, specifically those related to college admissions. College admissions essays take a lot of care and patience to write and require the same when editing them, so it’s important to find a college easy coach who will spend the time and have the empathy and experience needed to help support students through their drafting and editing stages. 

Look for coaches with a background in writing, education, or college admissions counseling. A strong foundation in these areas will help indicate that the coach has the expertise to provide valuable guidance throughout the essay-writing process! Additionally, see if the coach can provide examples of their own writing, as you can get a feel for their caliber and perspective/tone of voice.

2. Review Their Track Record

When deciding upon a college essay coach to work with your student, it doesn’t hurt to ask about their experiences helping students through the admissions essay process! Ask potential coaches for examples of past success stories of students they helped. You can ask questions like:

• Where did your students end up?
• What was the process you followed with them to get their essays to their final products?
• What approaches did you use throughout the writing process?
• How do you help students find the topics they can write strongly about?

While these questions may seem rudimentary, having some questions to begin the search can help you find a coach that fits your student’s personality and make the process much easier. Additionally, most universities ask different questions to students for their applications, so finding a coach that fits your student’s college admissions goals will be a much better approach to the process and help your family holistically move through it easily.

3. Assess Their Coaching Style

Every student is unique, and so is every coach! Coaches have their own teaching, writing, and essay approaches, so it's important to consider your child’s learning style and preferences when choosing a coach to work with. Some students may thrive with intensive one-on-one guidance, while others prefer more independent work with occasional check-ins. Therefore, it's important to find a coach who can support your student in the way that best suits them!

Understanding how coaches work through the essay development process is also crucial. Discuss with them how they edit admissions essays and writing pieces. What do they look for? When crafting a draft or building their topic lists, what are some things to consider? What should students look out for when crafting their essays during preparation? These questions can guide the conversation and help you and your students understand what to expect from working with them.

Here is a great example of how an essay coach will edit a piece:

Video: Editing YOUR College Essays | The BEST Essay I've Read So Far

4. Request a Sample Session from the College Essay Coach

Requesting a sample session before committing to a coach is a great idea. This initial trial will allow you to evaluate the coach's methods and compatibility with your student's needs and see if they are a good personality fit! During your first conversations with the coach, ask if they offer a sample session and arrange for your student to participate. It's essential that your student attends this session, as they will be the ones benefiting from the service most! 

During the session, pay attention to how the coach helps your student develop ideas and how the coach carries the initial conversation through. Be sure to ask any questions you might have as they work with your student, and see how they provide feedback and whether they effectively communicate strategies for improving the essay.

5. Discuss Their Availability

Undoubtedly, the high school years are an incredibly busy time for most families. Between juggling sports, academics, extracurriculars, and more, schedules for both students and parents can fill up fast. With this in mind, it’s important to prioritize discussing availability in the initial conversations!

Make sure that the coach's availability aligns with your student’s schedule. Also, discuss deadlines and expectations in advance to avoid scheduling conflicts later. Having a coach who is easy to reach and quick to respond throughout this highly busy and stressful time will offer valuable support during the application process.

6. Inquire About Their Approach to Essay Writing

Another critical aspect of finding the right college essay coach for your student is understanding their approach to essay writing. It is essential to choose a coach who prioritizes helping students develop their unique voice and narrative rather than merely editing their work. A good coach will guide your student through a comprehensive process that includes brainstorming, outlining, and revising, helping to ensure essays are authentic and compelling, reflecting the student's personality and experiences.

During your search, learn more about the coach’s methodology and how they plan to support your student in crafting their story. The ideal coach should encourage creative thinking and help students articulate and effectively their ideas, focusing on teaching students how to organize their thoughts, construct a strong narrative, and refine their writing through multiple drafts. This process improves the quality of the essays and empowers students with valuable writing skills that will benefit them beyond the college application process.

7. Consider Their Familiarity with Different Colleges

Just like some tutors have skills in certain fields, it’s important to remember that essay coaches do, too! Every school has a different set of questions they ask students to answer in their application, so the coach you find must be able to help support the writing process for particular universities your student is applying to. Some coaches specialize in advising students on specific types of colleges, such as liberal arts colleges, Ivy League institutions, or STEM-focused schools, so their lens of guidance and thought process will likely follow suit. 

When finding the best-fit college essay coach, consider your child’s interests and aspirations and the types of colleges they are targeting. Suppose your student has experience within STEM areas and wishes to apply to an engineering major at their desired university, for instance. In that case, it’s important to ensure the essay coach can help students utilize their experience within that field to their advantage. A coach who understands the nuances of different admissions processes for schools of all different types can help provide tailored guidance that aligns with your child’s goals.

8. Assess Their Ability to Provide Constructive Feedback

Feedback is an incredibly important part of the essay drafting process. Implementing feedback into your writing can help you see and understand perspectives you might not have originally thought about, help develop a cleaner, more concise, and more persuasive tone, and help get you back on the right track. With this in mind, finding a coach who will provide constructive and effective feedback to support your student throughout the writing process is important.

Feedback looks different for each individual coach, but effective feedback in essay writing contains a few basic things: positivity, questions/clarification from a higher level to a lower level, and a critique of the writing, not the writer themselves. Additionally, pay attention to the tone of the critique and whether it follows the golden rule of effective feedback—it should be considerate and not bash or negate the student's work.

9. Look for Personalized Attention

Students are unique, and so is their writing! Each student has their own perspective, voice, experiences, interests, and aspirations, and their college essays will be the lens admissions officers have into the student who is applying. Knowing this, choose an essay coach that provides a personalized approach throughout each step of the process and gives your student the best chance at developing a story true to themselves. 

From mind mapping and brainstorming to final edits, your student’s essay coach should focus on tailoring their guidance to your student’s goals and writing style from the get-go. A coach who takes the time to get to know your child’s background and ambitions will provide more effective support and, in turn, help your student write essays that will be sure to wow the admissions officers!

10. Check Their Ethical Standards

Ethical integrity is paramount when selecting a college essay coach. Avoid coaches who act unethically in their work, such as writing essays for students or making false promises about admission outcomes. These practices undermine the student’s learning experience and can have serious consequences, including jeopardizing the student’s admission prospects and damaging their academic reputation.

When evaluating potential coaches, prioritize those who are honest, transparent, and promote ethical conduct in their coaching practice. Essay coaches should work to empower students to express their own thoughts and ideas authentically and provide guidance and support, helping students brainstorm, outline, and revise their own personal essays, not the writing of the coach.

Transparency is also important to ethical coaching. Look for coaches who are upfront about their methods, expectations, and realistic outcomes of their assistance. They should be clear about what they can and cannot do, avoiding any admission guarantees to specific colleges. Instead, they will emphasize the importance of effort, authenticity, and personal growth in the application process.

11. Review Their Communication Skills

Effective feedback is essential for enhancing a student’s essay-writing skills and ensuring their writing growth. When searching for a college essay coach, prioritize those who offer specific, actionable feedback that will help students understand their strengths and identify areas for improvement within their writing.

Look for a coach who provides detailed comments and suggestions that clarify why certain changes are needed. For instance, instead of correcting a vague sentence, the coach should explain why it lacks clarity and offer strategies to make it more precise. Additionally, avoid coaches who simply rewrite or heavily edit essays without offering an explanation. While this might result in a polished essay, it doesn't teach the student how to improve their writing skills. The goal is to develop the student’s ability to think critically about their work and make informed decisions about their revisions so they can become a better writer and thinker in the future!

12. Compare Costs and Services:

Finally, when deciding on a college essay coach, it’s important to consider the cost of coaching services and what is included in the offered package! While price shouldn’t be the sole determining factor, ensuring that the coaching services align with your budget and expectations is essential, especially considering the applications' costs. Be sure to compare the costs and services different coaches offer to find the best value for your investment and find a coach that provides the best service quality without breaking the bank!

Finding the best college essay coach for your student requires careful consideration of their practice, including their credentials, coaching style, expertise, and ethical standards. Use these 12 tips to help select a coach who provides personalized guidance, supports your child’s individual needs and aspirations, and helps them craft compelling essays that stand out to admissions officers!

Looking for extra essay support? Empowerly’s here to help! Our team of expert essay editors and counselors is here to support your student during the stresses of the college admissions process. They are available to provide edits, help brainstorm, and empower your student to create essays that will not only wow the admissions officers, but show students all they have achieved on their own. Schedule a free consultation to get started with our team today!

The post 12 Tips for Finding the Best College Essay Coach (2025) appeared first on Empowerly.