How Do You Write a Strong and Memorable College Essay? #college #collegeadmissions #collegeadvice

What should students write about in their college essays — and what topics should they avoid if they want to stand out?

I get a lot ofrequests from students and parents asking, “What makes a good college essay?”
And here’s my advice: write about your wins. Write about your passion. And write about moments that reveal who you are — even if they’re small.

Too many students think they need to have a dramatic story or a big, life-changing moment. But the truth is, even the little wins matter.
Colleges want to see your thinking, your perspective, your growth. They want to connect with you — maybe laugh with you, feel your energy, or see how you navigate the world.

And most of all, they want to read something memorable.

Let me give you an example.
There’s a student who got into several Ivy League schools — and her essay was all about Papa John’s pizza.
She wrote about the excitement she felt waiting for the doorbell to ring, how it reminded her of being a mouse in a maze, and how pizza night became a metaphor for her curiosity, her sense of fun, and her hunger to explore.
It wasn’t a dramatic story — but it was personal, vivid, and full of personality.

That’s what works.

Now let’s talk about what doesn’t.
Avoid writing about injuries that kept you from playing sports, or moments that only focus on loss or sadness.
Colleges aren’t looking for trauma essays — they’re looking for students who show resilience, energy, and insight.

If you’ve overcome something, that’s great — but focus on what you gained, not just what went wrong.
Bring the story back to who you are now and where you’re going next.

If you’re stuck, a great resource is the “Essays That Worked” section on the Johns Hopkins admissions website.
Yes, it’s an Ivy League-level school, but it offers excellent examples of how storytelling can create connection and help you stand out.

At the end of the day, a strong essay shows your voice, your passions, and what makes you, you.

Your college essay doesn’t need to be dramatic — it needs to be real, thoughtful, and focused on what lights you up.
If you need help brainstorming or reviewing your ideas, we’re here to help.
Let College Help Squad be part of your process.