Students targeting American universities are likely to submit one or more applications through the Common App platform. In this series, we will discuss strategies to write strong, memorable essays based on each of the six prompts offered by the Common App. Let’s first focus on prompt #1:
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 encourages students to share something that they consider essential to defining who they are or explaining one or more key personal traits. To give a complete answer, students will want to consider not only what it is about them that is so important that it must be shared, but also how it shapes the way they see the world, their goals, and – if related – their study plans. Here are some ways students can tell stories that describe their meaningful characteristics and experiences in ways that express their uniqueness as well as their preparedness for college studies.
Background or Identity
When the prompt identifies background and identity as possible topics, this might include any of the following:
- Where one lived growing up
- Immigrating to a new country
- Racial or ethnic background
- Gender identity
- Speaking multiple languages
- Physical, emotional, or cognitive conditions or disabilities
- Religion or other defining personal values
If you feel passionately that one of these aspects defines who you are in a way that you want others to know about, then this may be the prompt for you. Your job, as an essay writer, will be to describe your background or identity to the reader in a way that convinces them of the importance of this aspect of your life and how it shapes you into who you are today. For example, if you are Cambodian-American, why is it important for you to carry on cultural practices you have learned from your parents and grandparents? How does that impact the way you see the world? How will it affect what you wish to do in your career? Or, if you live with a physical disability, how does that affect the ways you interact with others or experience the world? How will it affect the way you study in university?
Interest
For this question, relevant interests could include things like:
- Foreign languages
- Social causes (environmentalism, animal rights, human rights…)
- Volunteering
- Scientific research or projects
- Travel
Having a deep passion or a personal interest that guides your vision for your future is a defining characteristic that could be a strong focus for Common App essay prompt #1. An interest should be something that you already dedicate significant time and effort to, not something that is purely aspirational. A commitment to volunteering at a food bank, raising money for an animal shelter, or other social or cultural causes can make great essay topics as they invite the writer to reflect on their personal values. If you choose to write about your interest, be sure to focus on why you care about this subject and what impact it can help you make as a student or professional in the future.
Talent
Talents are things we show through actions, similar to the activities listed here:
- Music
- Sports
- Fine arts
- Performance arts
- Writing
The option to write about a personal talent is more about the quality or level to which you do something, rather than simply your commitment to it. For example, if you have practiced gymnastics since childhood and you compete at a national level or if you love origami and have had your original designs published in books, the reader can understand the high level at which you do these things. Once you explain your talent and level of proficiency, share your personal experience and any future vision. If gymnastics has helped you become more disciplined and you relish competition, share that. Alternatively, if you find doing origami relaxing and you feel it makes you a better problem solver, make that a central part of your story and tell the reader how it will help you in the future.
Conclusion
For most students (excluding art students applying with a portfolio), college application essays are the single greatest opportunity to distinguish themselves from a very crowded and competitive group of peers. Thoughtful, well-written personal essays are often the deciding factor for admissions committees. The opportunity to choose from so many prompts offers the chance to tell your best stories and showcase your strengths. Think carefully about your essay topic of choice and discuss it openly with trusted teachers, counselors, or friends before you start writing. Taking the time to plan your storytelling will help you craft personal essays that stick.