The Common App’s “Topic of Your Choice” Essay: Your Chance to Shine (Or Drown in a Sea of Overthinking)
So, you’re staring at the Common App essay prompts, and you’re feeling a little overwhelmed. You’ve got your “accomplishment” story, a “growth” anecdote, and even a “gratitude” reflection ready to go. But then you see it, the ever-so-tempting “Topic of Your Choice” prompt. It’s like a siren song, promising freedom and creative expression, but lurking beneath the surface is the potential for existential dread and a crippling fear of inadequacy.
Let’s be honest, the “Topic of Your Choice” prompt is a double-edged sword. It’s your chance to write about anything under the sun, to showcase your unique personality and passions. You can delve into the intricacies of quantum physics, dissect the social implications of TikTok dances, or even wax poetic about your love for your pet goldfish.
But, here’s the rub: the freedom can be paralyzing. Suddenly, the pressure is on to come up with something original,meaningful, and profound. It’s like trying to pick a single grain of sand from a vast beach.
Let’s Break Down the “Topic of Your Choice” Temptation
Imagine you’re a college admissions officer, sifting through hundreds of essays. You’ve read about overcoming challenges, gratitude for family, and the transformative power of a summer internship. Then, you stumble upon an essay about the history of the paperclip. Intrigued, you click.
What happens next?
- Scenario 1: The “I’m-So-Unique” Trap
The essay rambles on about the evolution of the paperclip, its role in society, and the existential angst of a paperclip’s existence. It’s a fascinating journey into the depths of a seemingly mundane object, but it lacks a personal connection. You’re left wondering, “Why this? Why now? What does this tell me about the applicant?”
- Scenario 2: The “Here’s My Hobby” Dump
The essay is a detailed, enthusiastic account of the applicant’s passion for birdwatching, complete with technical jargon and a lengthy description of their favorite bird identification app. While well-written, it lacks the introspection and self-reflection that college admissions committees crave.
- Scenario 3: The “Wait, This is Actually Deep?” Revelation
The essay starts with a seemingly ordinary topic – a childhood memory, a hobby, or a favorite book. But as you read, you’re drawn in by the depth of the applicant’s thought, the raw honesty, and the connection to their personal growth. You close the essay feeling like you’ve gained a glimpse into their soul.
So, how do you navigate the “Topic of Your Choice” minefield and emerge victorious?
1. Don’t Overthink It (But Don’t Underthink It Either):
The “Topic of Your Choice” prompt isn’t a trick question. It’s an opportunity to showcase your personality, your voice, and your ability to think critically. Start by brainstorming topics that truly interest you, things that make you tick.
2. Find the “Why” Behind the “What”:
Once you have a topic in mind, ask yourself:
- Why is this important to me?
- What personal experiences, values, or beliefs are connected to this topic?
- How does this topic reflect my growth, my challenges, or my aspirations?
3. Tell a Story, Not Just a Summary:
Remember, the Common App essay is about storytelling, not simply stating facts. Use your chosen topic as a springboard to share a personal experience, a pivotal moment, or a reflection that reveals something about you.
4. Show, Don’t Tell (and Don’t Over-Show):
Use vivid language, sensory details, and anecdotes to bring your story to life. Avoid clichés and overly dramatic language. Let your personality shine through in your writing style.
5. The “Topic of Your Choice” Isn’t a Free Pass to Go Off the Rails:
While you have the freedom to explore any topic, it’s important to remember that college admissions committees are looking for evidence of your academic potential, critical thinking skills, and personal growth. Choose a topic that allows you to demonstrate these qualities.
Let’s Take a Look at Some “Topic of Your Choice” Winners:
- The Curious Case of the Paperclip: A student writes about their fascination with the humble paperclip, exploring its history, its evolution, and its unexpected role in social and technological advancements. They connect this to their own interest in innovation, problem-solving, and the power of seemingly simple ideas.
- The Art of the Escape Room: A student writes about their love for escape rooms, analyzing the psychology behind them, the teamwork required, and the thrill of overcoming challenges. They connect this to their own personality traits – resourcefulness, collaboration, and a desire to think outside the box.
- The Unlikely Hero of My Childhood: A student writes about their bond with their childhood pet, a guinea pig named “Squiggles.” They explore the impact this creature had on their life, teaching them about responsibility, empathy, and the importance of companionship.
The “Topic of Your Choice” is a Chance to Stand Out
The “Topic of Your Choice” essay is your opportunity to break free from the confines of traditional college application prompts and showcase your unique perspective. Think about what makes you different, what you’re passionate about, and what story you want to tell. Remember, the best stories are often the ones that are personal, authentic, and thought-provoking.
Need More Guidance?
If you’re still struggling to find the perfect topic or are unsure about how to craft a compelling essay, don’t hesitate to reach out to the JobLoving community for support and guidance. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of the college application process and write an essay that will make you stand out from the crowd.