Is Yin Yang a Common College Application Essay Topic? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Not as Simple as Black and White)
So, you’re sitting there, staring at the Common App essay prompts, and you’re thinking, “Should I write about yin yang?” Maybe you’re feeling philosophical, maybe you’re a fan of Chinese philosophy, or maybe you just want to stand out from the crowd. Let’s be real, everyone wants to stand out, right?
But hold your horses, young Padawan. While exploring the intricate dance of yin and yang can be fascinating, it might not be the best move for your Common App essay. Here’s why:
The Yin and Yang of College Essay Topics:
- Yin: The yin side of this question is the allure of a unique topic. Yin yang has a certain mystique and can lead to fascinating introspective essays.
- Yang: The yang side is the potential for overthinking and overcomplicating things. Yin yang is a complex philosophical concept, and unless you’re a philosophy major, it might be difficult to explain it convincingly and succinctly in the limited space of a college essay.
The Common App Essay: A Land of No Yin Yang
Let’s be honest, the Common App essay is about showcasing your personality, your values, and your ability to tell a story. It’s not a philosophical treatise. The Common App has a specific format and character limit, and it’s designed for admissions officers to quickly grasp who you are and what you’re about.
Think of it this way: If you’re ordering a pizza, you can choose between pepperoni, mushrooms, and olives. These are tried-and-true toppings. But then you have the option of “build your own.” While creative and potentially delicious, it’s riskier. You might end up with a pizza that is too out there, too complicated, or simply not a good representation of your usual pizza preferences.
What the College Admissions Team Really Wants:
Admissions officers are looking for essays that are:
- Personal: Show them who you are, not just what you know.
- Authentic: Be true to yourself and your voice.
- Engaging: Keep them hooked from the first sentence to the last.
- Relevant: Connect your story to your academic goals and aspirations.
So, How Do You Make Your Essay Shine?
Here are a few tips for crafting a killer Common App essay:
- Focus on your story: What experiences have shaped you? What challenges have you overcome? What lessons have you learned?
- Find your voice: Don’t be afraid to be yourself. Use humor, sarcasm, and a conversational tone. Show your personality!
- Be specific: Don’t just tell stories; show them with vivid details.
- Connect the dots: Explain how your past experiences have prepared you for your future.
- Proofread, proofread, proofread: Typos and grammar errors can make your essay look sloppy.
The Yin Yang of Common App Essay Prompts:
- Prompt #1: “Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.” This prompt is perfect for sharing something unique about yourself, but it doesn’t necessarily require a deep philosophical exploration.
- Prompt #2: “The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?” This prompt encourages you to share a personal story of growth and resilience.
- Prompt #3: “Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?” This prompt is about intellectual curiosity and critical thinking.
The Bottom Line:
While the yin yang symbol might be a fascinating topic, it might not be the best choice for your Common App essay. Stick to topics that are personal, authentic, engaging, and relevant to your goals. Remember, the goal is to showcase your unique personality and inspire the admissions committee to get to know you better.
Need More Help?
If you’re still unsure about your essay or need further guidance, reach out to the JobLoving community. We’re here to help you craft an essay that will make a lasting impression!
Let’s make your college application a success story, one essay at a time!