No Big Moment? No Problem. What to Write About for the College Essay

When it comes to college applications, the Common App personal statement is one of the most important pieces—and for many students, one of the most stressful. With so much riding on 650 words, it’s easy to freeze up trying to pick “the perfect topic.” But here’s the good news: the best essays aren’t about perfection. They’re about authenticity, reflection, and voice.

So, how do you choose what to write about?

Start With What Matters to You

The strongest essays often come from everyday moments, not dramatic life events. It’s not about what you did but what it meant to you. That means a conversation with a grandparent, a quiet moment on a walk, or even a failure that stung can all be meaningful essay topics.

Use a Simple Framework to Brainstorm

One helpful approach is to use the College Essay Guy’s “Essence Objects” or “Values Exercise.” These tools help students uncover what they care about and what experiences shaped them. For example:

• Essence Objects: Think about 5–10 physical objects representing something important about who you are. A worn soccer ball, a favorite book, a family recipe card—each one can lead to a deeper story.

• Values Exercise: List values that resonate with you—like curiosity, empathy, resilience, or independence. Then reflect on when in your life you’ve lived out those values.

These prompts don’t just generate ideas—they help you find stories that reflect your true self.

Think About What You Want Colleges to Know About You

A great personal statement communicates something core about who you are that isn’t obvious from your transcript or test scores. Ask yourself: What do I want a college to understand about me that they won’t find anywhere else in my application?

Maybe it’s your sense of humor, quiet leadership, creativity, or ability to adapt. Whatever it is, the essay is your chance to show it.

For Parents: Your Role Is Support, Not Strategy

Parents often want to help, and that’s great—but the most helpful role is as a sounding board, not a co-writer. Ask your student what they want the college to know about them. Listen for moments of passion or clarity. Encourage honesty over polish. The most compelling essays sound like a teenager who knows themselves—not a polished adult resume.

Students: trust that your voice and story matter. Parents: trust that your student has something meaningful to say. Choosing a topic for the Common App essay doesn’t require a life-changing experience—just thoughtful reflection and a willingness to be real. Need personalized guidance on your personal statement? Check out Resume All Day’s essay coaching services for expert feedback!

Essay Coaching