As you prepare to write your college admissions essay –
Tell me your story.
No, not your life story.
No, not something you imagine you would have to prepare to talk your way into heaven.
No, not a resumé or a chronicle of everything you have ever done.
Tell me a story of a moment – or an hour, or a day, or a week in your life.
Tell me what you saw, smelled, heard and thought.
Give me an idea of what it’s like to be you.
I want to know what you were thinking.
I want to know who and what you saw around you, and if you cared.
I want to know why THIS moment was important to you. I want to know why THIS moment shaped who you are today. I want to know why THIS moment is a moment you reflect upon.
Reflect away!
I know you’re worried about choosing a topic. I think it’s less about coming up with something unusual, and more about the authenticity with which you express yourself. I want to see your sincerity. You don’t have to worry that you won’t sound “smart enough”. Be real.