What Not to Write in Your Common App Essay: A Guide to Avoiding the Clichés and Pitfalls
So, you’re finally tackling the infamous Common Application essay. You’ve got your brainstorming hat on, your coffee mug in hand, and you’re ready to unleash your inner wordsmith. Hold on a second, though. Before you dive headfirst into a sea of metaphors and anecdotes, let’s talk about what not to write.
Think of the Common App essay as a first date. You want to make a good impression, but you don’t want to overshare or come off as desperate. You want to be memorable, but not in a cringe-worthy way.
Here’s the thing: The Common App essay is your chance to showcase your personality, your interests, and your unique voice. It’s your opportunity to tell a story that reveals who you are beyond your grades and extracurriculars. But just like a good party, there are some topics that are best left unsaid.
The Forbidden Zone: 15 Topics to Avoid in Your College Essay
1. Inappropriate Topics: Let’s start with the obvious. Anything illegal, unethical, or straight-up inappropriate is a big no-no. Think of it this way: If you wouldn’t discuss it with your grandma, don’t write about it in your essay.
2. A Rehash of Your Activities List and Transcripts: The Common App essay is not your resume. The admissions committee already has your transcripts and extracurriculars. Use this essay to go deeper, to reveal the why behind your achievements.
3. Relationships, Romance, and Breakups: While your love life might be a compelling storyline in your personal life, it’s not the most compelling topic for a college essay. Unless it’s a story about overcoming heartbreak and finding resilience, steer clear of romantic dramas.
4. Writing About Your Hero: We all have role models, but writing about someone else’s achievements isn’t going to show the admissions committee who you are. Focus on your own experiences and insights.
5. The Sports Story: Sports can be a great source of life lessons, but the “I overcame a major injury and led my team to victory” story is a bit overplayed. If you choose to write about sports, make sure it’s a unique and personal story that reveals something about your character.
6. Tragedies: While tragedies can be formative experiences, writing about them in your Common App essay is a delicate dance. Avoid graphic details and focus on how you learned and grew from the experience. If you’re unsure about whether or not to include a tragedy, err on the side of caution.
7. Highly Personal Topics: This might be the most subjective point on the list, but generally, avoid topics that are too personal or revealing. Admissions officers don’t need to know your deepest secrets or darkest thoughts.
8. Controversial Topics: Politics, Religion, and More: Unless you’re applying to a specific program or major related to your chosen controversial topic, it’s best to avoid sensitive issues. You want to showcase your personality, not stir up a debate.
9. The “I’m So Unique” Essay: We all like to think we’re unique snowflakes, but the “I’m different from everyone else” essay is a recipe for disaster. Avoid overly dramatic statements and focus on showing your individuality through your experiences and insights.
10. The “I’m So Humble” Essay: Humility is admirable, but bragging about your humility is a bit like a dog chasing its tail. Let your accomplishments speak for themselves. Focus on the lessons you’ve learned rather than how humble you are.
11. Creative Writing: While creative writing can be fun, a college essay isn’t the place to show off your literary skills. Keep it simple and focused on conveying your message clearly and concisely.
12. Athletic Topics: This is a bit of a double-edged sword. Sports can be a great source of personal growth, but the “I overcame a major injury and led my team to victory” story is a bit overplayed. If you choose to write about sports, make sure it’s a unique and personal story that reveals something about your character.
13. Humorous Topics or Jokes: Humor can be a great way to connect with the admissions committee, but it’s a risky move. If you’re not a natural comedian, it’s best to avoid humor altogether.
14. The “I’m So Smart” Essay: We get it, you’re smart. But bragging about your intelligence is a turn-off. Instead of focusing on your IQ, show your intellectual curiosity and how you approach challenges.
15. The “I’m So Busy” Essay: Listing your extracurriculars will impress no one. Instead of boasting about how busy you are, focus on the experiences that have shaped you and how you’ve learned from them.
Beyond the Forbidden: What to Write Instead
Okay, so you’ve got a list of topics to avoid. Now what? Here’s the good news: there are plenty of other topics you can write about that will showcase your personality and make you stand out from the crowd.
Focus on your “why”: Why are you applying to this particular school? What excites you about the program? What are your academic and personal goals?
Showcase your passion: What are you truly passionate about? What makes you tick? What do you spend hours thinking about, researching, or creating?
Tell a compelling story: Every experience, big or small, can be a story. Think about a time you faced a challenge, overcame an obstacle, or learned a valuable lesson. What did you learn from the experience? How did it shape you?
Be authentic: Don’t try to be someone you’re not. The admissions committee can smell a fake a mile away. Be honest, be yourself, and let your personality shine through.
The Common App Essay: A Chance for Connection
Remember, the Common App essay is your chance to connect with the admissions committee. It’s your opportunity to show them who you are beyond your grades and test scores. By writing a thoughtful, engaging essay that showcases your personality and your potential, you can make a lasting impression.
Need More Help?
If you’re still feeling lost in the world of Common App essays, don’t fret! There are plenty of resources available to help you craft a winning essay. You can check out online guides, talk to your guidance counselor, or even hire a professional essay editor.
And remember, the JobLoving community is here to help! Reach out to us if you have any questions or need further guidance on navigating the Common App essay process. We’re here to support you every step of the way. Good luck!