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What Are Some 10 College Essay Topic Ideas to Avoid

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Introduction

Applying for college? Stuck on the essay part? You’re not alone. It’s your chance to show who you are beyond grades. But, what should you write about? And what topics should you skip?

In this blog, we’ll explore good and bad topics for your college essay. We’ll talk about why some topics can hurt your chances and how to pick the ones that showcase your growth and self-reflection.

From controversial topics to overused clichés, we’ll guide you through the do’s and don’ts of college essay writing. Ready to learn more? Let’s dive in!

What do Colleges Care for When Reading Your College Admissions Essay?

college essay topic ideas to avoid that aren't observed by an admissions officer

A different from the usual opinion regarding the topic you are covering

Crafting a college essay with a unique perspective is crucial as it sets you apart from the crowd. Given the highly selective nature of colleges in the United States, it’s essential to distinguish yourself from other applicants. Your college admissions essay is not just about standing out, but also about showcasing why you would be a valuable addition to the school.

Sharing your unique perspective can provide invaluable insights that may not be evident from other parts of your application, such as your resume. This additional information can help paint a more comprehensive picture of who you are as an individual, giving the admissions committee a well-rounded view of your candidacy.

Growth expressed by transition and improvement

College applicants often face the challenge of articulating personal struggles in their admissions essays. It’s crucial to approach this task with care to avoid the impression of complaining or attempting to elicit sympathy from the reader. Instead, the focus should be on demonstrating personal growth and improvement.

Consider a point in your life where you were perhaps weaker or less informed. The goal is to illustrate a transition from that point, showing how you’ve learned from your mistakes and sought self-improvement. This approach is particularly important for essays that emphasize overcoming life’s challenges and problems.

By framing your experiences in this way, you can present a compelling narrative of personal development, making your essay engaging and relatable. Remember, the aim is not just to share your story, but to show how these experiences have shaped you into the person you are today.

Self-reflection to show a better understanding of who a student is

As mentioned by AdmissionSight, a compelling college essay necessitates a profound understanding of oneself. It’s about confidently showcasing the unique traits and aspects of your personality that define you. In addition to this, a well-crafted essay can provide the admissions officer with a glimpse into your thought process as a prospective college student.

The act of self-reflection is a powerful tool in this context. It not only makes your narrative authentic and genuine but also helps establish a connection with the readers, who are members of the college admissions committee.

When crafting your admissions essay, you are working to demonstrate self-discovery. You show that you have delved deep into your identity and have managed to gain maturity along the way. This process symbolizes a transition from one phase of your life to another.

Outlined by Coursera, this personal touch allows the admissions essay to stand out from other elements of a student’s application, such as the transcript, which primarily demonstrates a college applicant’s academic identity. It also complements letters of recommendation that provide insights into their academic performance.

The Worst College Essay Topic Ideas You Need to Avoid

A Lady with thumbs down illustrating the Worst College Essay Topic Ideas to Avoid

As you embark on the journey of crafting your college admissions essay, it’s crucial to understand some college essay topic ideas to avoid. This understanding is pivotal to the success of your essay.

We are about to delve into this critical aspect in the forthcoming section of this blog post. We aim to provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you avoid common pitfalls and enhance the quality of your college admissions essay. Stay tuned as we unravel the secrets to a compelling essay that stands out in the admissions process.

Topic Ideas on activities that are frowned upon by society

What does it mean when a topic idea is disliked by society?

Society often overlooks certain topic ideas, failing to give them the seriousness they warrant. These ideas, though not exhaustive, encompass subjects such as sex, bullying among students, pranks on teachers, and suicidal thoughts. In essence, these and other related topics are the ones that society tends to frown upon.

How to identify topic ideas that are unaccepted by society

To identify topics that are considered taboo by society, one must first understand societal norms. These norms dictate what is generally accepted as right or wrong in our lives. For instance, attending church is often viewed as a virtuous activity. However, the concept of attending or not attending church for worship can be a controversial topic. (More on this later on in the blog post)

These broad topics and ideas, which are typically classified as good or bad, are ingrained in our sub-conscience. This understanding of right and wrong, instilled by society, is something you may wish to challenge when crafting your college admissions essay.

For example, society generally views drugs negatively. Therefore, it would be unwise to choose drugs as a topic for your essay. Similarly, sex is often seen by society, including parents and teachers, as an inappropriate topic for young people. Hence, it would be best to avoid such a subject.

It is also widely understood that actions such as committing suicide or bullying others are deemed unacceptable by society. Even if your reasons for engaging in such activities were transformative, or led to personal growth, it is advisable to avoid these topics. Most of the time, such subjects could negatively impact your college application efforts.

In conclusion, when selecting a topic for your college admissions essay, it is crucial to consider societal norms and avoid controversial subjects. This approach will increase the likelihood of your application being viewed favorably. Remember, the goal is to present yourself in the best possible light to the admissions committee.

What are the consequences of writing essays on topic ideas that challenge societal norms?

In this section of our blog post, we delve into a discussion of significant consequences. We explore the impact of engaging with topics that are unapproved by society to help you understand why we see them as one of the worst college essay topic ideas to avoid. Our exploration is not an endorsement, but an intellectual exercise to understand the broader implications of writing essays that go against societal norms.

Delving into controversial topics such as sex and drugs in a college admissions essay is generally not considered a wise strategy. From the outset, it can be seen as disrespectful by the admissions committee. This approach can inadvertently portray you as someone more interested in provoking shock than in providing meaningful and authentic self-disclosure as explained by CATES.

It’s crucial to remember that the primary goal of the college admissions essay is to communicate meaningful aspects of your character and experiences, not to alarm or unsettle the reader.

Many Reddit users advise against discussing drug-related topics. This is primarily because society generally frowns upon such subjects, making them seemingly inappropriate for a college admissions essay. However, there are rare scenarios where this topic could be effectively addressed.

For instance, if you can demonstrate personal growth from overcoming addiction, it could potentially work in your favor. If you can illustrate how you’ve learned from your mistakes, improved, and evolved into a better person, it could indeed be a compelling narrative. But remember, these are very specific scenarios.

Topic Ideas about other elements than yourself

What does diving into topics that are about other elements than yourself mean?

Exploring subjects beyond oneself can be a profound experience but still prove to be one of the college essay topic ideas to avoid because of its brittle nature. Topic ideas discussing other elements than yourself could involve delving into the wisdom of a mentor, immersing oneself in a beloved book, describing a cherished meal, or reflecting on a poem that resonated deeply.

How to go about fixing the discussion on non-personal topics in a college essay?

When crafting a compelling college admissions essay, it’s crucial to keep the focus on yourself. While it’s tempting to delve completely into topics you’re passionate about, remember the primary purpose of the essay: to showcase your values and demonstrate why you would be an asset to the college or institution you’re applying to.

Avoid getting so engrossed in your favorite subjects that you lose sight of this goal. Instead, portray yourself as someone who embodies the highest values a human being can possess. Do this authentically and sincerely. Discussing impersonal topics or digressing too far from your personal experiences can make your essay irrelevant, which is not the desired outcome.

Always strive to tie the subject of your essay back to yourself. Look for ways to connect what you’re discussing – that book you love reading or that hobby you enjoy – to your own life, particularly your academic journey. This will help you present yourself as a student deserving of admission to the institution of your choice

Controversial Topic Ideas such as politics and religion

The Reality About Controversial Topics

The reality about controversial topics is that they can be a gamble when included in your college admissions essay. You’re essentially risking your admission to the college you’re seeking to join as identified by CollegeRaptor.

The reason is simple: you don’t know the person who will be reading your essay. Their political and religious interests are unknown to you, and there’s a risk they might strongly disagree with your perspective. This is a risk you might not want to take when crafting a college admissions essay. After all, this is about your future, your life at the institution where you wish to study, and the career you envision for yourself. It’s not something you want to leave to chance.

Discussing a controversial topic such as political inclination can put you at odds with the admissions committee. It can make it difficult for them to judge your essay fairly and understand your personality if they disagree with you. This is not a position you want to find yourself in during the admissions process.

You don’t want to appear as though you’re insulting other people’s life choices. People generally don’t appreciate that, and most likely, neither will the admissions committee. Your goal should be to showcase your personality without stepping on anyone’s toes.

Recommended Practice with Controversial Topics

Are you considering incorporating a controversial topic into your college admissions essay? This could be a strategic move. As students apply to colleges, they often seek ways to stand out.

Writing an essay on a controversial topic could be one such method, especially if the topic genuinely represents who you are.

Firstly, as discussed by CollegeVine, it’s important to consider whether the controversial topic allows you to present yourself in an authentic, realistic, and genuine manner. The topic should hold deep value and meaning to you, reflecting heavily on the aspects that define you – your beliefs, values, and perspectives in life. Remember, admissions officers can discern if you’re trying to stir negative emotions. When discussing controversial topics, avoid sounding provocative or inciting any kind of emotion. Instead, aim to present your true self, using the topic as a means to reflect on your values and beliefs.

Secondly, maintain a tone that is respectful and balanced. Controversial topics are sensitive, and it’s crucial to ensure that your analysis and arguments, including the provision of specific examples, are respectful of diverse views. While presenting your own beliefs, demonstrate cognizance of the vast views on the controversial topic you’re discussing.

Thirdly, place a heavy emphasis on your personal growth and development. Highlight how the controversial topic has facilitated your transition from one point in your life to another. Emphasize your personal growth, the lessons learned from mistakes, and your aspirations post these learnings. Ensure that the topic is relevant to your application and adds valuable information about your character and personality.

Lastly, research the institution’s values, beliefs, and mission. Understand the college’s stance on controversial topics and consider whether the institution welcomes diverse perspectives or prefers a singular perspective. For institutions that prefer the latter, it might be better to stick with a traditional approach and avoid controversial topics.

When writing a college admissions essay on a controversial topic, it’s crucial to delve deeply into the subject matter. Analyzing the topic thoroughly not only demonstrates your ability to think critically but also shows your understanding of the complexities involved as mentioned once again by CollegeVine.

Remember, your essay is a reflection of your thought process and your ability to engage with challenging topics. It can be your opportunity to show the admissions committee that you can handle controversy with maturity and insight. If you or anyone you know follows these steps, then focusing on a controversial topic shouldn’t be considered as one of the college essay topic ideas to avoid.

Hyper-emotional topic ideas

What is a hyper-emotional topic idea?

A hyper-emotional essay topic idea is so sensitive, it becomes difficult to discuss. If such a topic is chosen for a college admissions essay, it could lead to an emotional breakdown. This could give the impression that the author is complaining about the subject matter, rather than providing an objective analysis.

The high level of emotion involved can overwhelm the author, making it challenging to convey information effectively.

The Problem with Hyper-emotional Ideas

The primary issue with hyper-emotional ideas for your topic is their excessive personal nature. Discussing an overly personal topic can inadvertently signal a lack of respect for one’s boundaries.

College admissions essays indeed require a personal touch, but it’s crucial to strike a balance. Revealing too much explicit information about your past life can suggest to admissions officers that you struggle with understanding boundaries as heavily outlined by PrepScholar’s blog post on bad college essays.

This can be detrimental in a college admissions essay, particularly for someone who will be living with strangers in a higher learning institution, thus proving yourself to not be a good fit for the college you are seeking admission from.

Topic Ideas that you don’t find meaningful as a student

What causes many applicants to focus on topics they don’t find meaningful?

Many college applicants often concentrate on unconventional ideas that lack personal significance. This tendency primarily stems from their aspiration to project an image of perfection. This desire is often fueled by their eagerness to impress the institution they are applying to, or their wish to emulate someone they deeply admire.

However, the crux of the matter is that these applicants are attempting to portray a persona that is not reflective of their true selves. Unfortunately, this approach does not enhance their potential for college admission. Candidates need to understand that authenticity is key in the application process.

What college applicants need to stop being afraid of when choosing meaningful topic ideas to potentially write on

College applicants often grapple with fears that can hinder their progress.

One such fear is the perception of being seen as inexperienced or lacking in wisdom in a certain area. However, it’s crucial to remember that no one is perfect. Applicants should strive to highlight their own unique experiences and wisdom in their essays without caring about experiences and wisdom they don’t have.

Another common fear is the loss of societal approval. Applicants need to understand that they are the ones attending college, not society. If a decision turns out to be incorrect, the applicant will bear the consequences, not society. Therefore, decisions should be made for oneself, not to appease societal expectations.

The fear of rejection is also prevalent among applicants. While this fear is understandable, it’s essential to focus on the positive aspects of the application process. Creating a personal essay is an opportunity to demonstrate self-reflection and growth. The fear of rejection should not overshadow the enjoyment gained from writing the college admissions essay. After all, what could be more enjoyable than partaking in an activity that allows you to see yourself as who you are on paper?

Applicants also often fear failing to meet their expectations. For instance, a student who excels academically may strive for perfection in all aspects of their life. However, it’s important to remember that no one is perfect, and colleges understand this. Instead of striving for an unattainable ideal, applicants should aim to present themselves authentically, balancing their strengths and weaknesses.

When discussing weaknesses, it’s beneficial to frame them as areas of growth and learning. In essence, applying to college is similar to applying for a job. Just as job applicants balance their strengths and weaknesses in interviews, college applicants should do the same in their applications. It’s not about living up to a perfect ideal, but about presenting an authentic and balanced portrayal of oneself.

Competitive topic ideas

Why should you avoid competitive topics?

There are several reasons why one should steer clear of competitive topics when writing an essay. One of the primary reasons is the difficulty in brainstorming unique ideas. Another reason is the risk of falling into clichés or overused themes. For instance, sports-related topics, such as basketball, are often overused. Writing an essay on these topics makes it difficult for the author to stand out. Moreover, competitive topics often lead to the trap of striving for perfection rather than authenticity.

Examples of competitive topic ideas

Let’s delve into some examples of competitive topic ideas. One compelling topic is the exploration of individuals who inspire personal growth and improvement. These are the people who motivate us to become better versions of ourselves compared to who we were yesterday.

Another competitive topic idea has to do with pivotal moments in our lives that have shaped us. These moments often serve as turning points, leading us down new paths and opening up fresh perspectives.

Another competitive topic idea involves dealing with personal issues. For instance, the impact of child abuse or the effects of absentee parents can be profound and life-altering and as such competitive.

Lastly, topics centered on personal growth and development. These can range from overcoming personal obstacles to achieving self-fulfillment and happiness.

In essence, these examples provide a glimpse into the vast array of competitive topics that are notoriously one of the many college essay topic ideas to avoid.

Topic Ideas about Skills and Hobbies that weren’t Mentioned in Other Parts of The Essay.

Impact of the disconnection of topics in your Application

The most significant consequence of disconnecting a particular topic in your college admissions essay from other parts of your application is that it creates a problem of cohesion. This issue essentially means that there will be a disconnect between your admissions essay and other components of your application, such as your resume and application form. For instance, if you have detailed a certain hobby, skill, or activity that you enjoy in one part of your application, but failed to mention it in your essay, it creates a disconnect.

This inconsistency is not beneficial for an applicant’s admissions effort because it contradicts the holistic approach that admissions officers look for as detailed by the Tanabes.

Remember, admissions officers seek a cohesive application – one that is well-connected and presents you as a well-rounded student. A student who is not only academically qualified but also a good human being, ready and willing to contribute to the college community and, ultimately, to the world by building a career. That is the fundamental purpose of gaining college admission.

Best Way to Avoid The Lack of Cohesion Between Your Topic Idea in your Admissions Essay and Other Parts of Your Application.

To avoid a lack of cohesion between your college admissions essay and other parts of your application, it is essential to review all components of your application.

If you wish to delve into a topic that aligns with another part of your application, ensure you have thoroughly reviewed these other sections first. This will allow you to confirm the points you have mentioned and identify any closely related topics. If a topic could fit within the categories listed in your application but isn’t present, you need to ensure you aren’t going into detail about it in your essay. However, if a topic does not fit into any other aspect of your application, feel free to explore it in depth in your essay.

This approach will help prevent any potential lack of cohesion. For instance, if you choose to focus on a hobby that you did not include in your overall application, it could create confusion. Let’s say you enjoy playing the piano but did not include this hobby in your application form. This omission could be problematic as it might give the impression that your application was not created by you. Admissions officers might think you are trying to deceive them, which is certainly not the impression you want to create with your essay.

Topic Ideas on illegal activities

What Do Topic Ideas on illegal activities mean for college applicants?

Topic ideas related to illegal activities can have significant implications for college applicants, proving to sometimes be worse than the other college essay topic ideas to avoid which we have covered in our blog post. These topics, if handled poorly, can negatively impact your college admissions efforts.

Instead of contributing to the development of a memorable narrative, they can portray you as a less desirable student and potentially hinder your pursuit of higher education at the institution of your choice.

Just like topics that are socially unacceptable or frowned upon, those related to illegal activities can come off as immature. Often, these are chosen by students who aim to shock the admissions committee, which is not a favorable approach for a student seeking admission to a prestigious institution.

It is generally advisable to avoid topics related to drug use, drunk driving, or time spent in prison, regardless of whether you have since abandoned such reckless behavior.

However, there are rare instances where such topics could work. The key is to present yourself as someone who has grown from these experiences, rather than attempting to shock the admissions committee. The likelihood of success with such topics is minimal, so the best course of action is typically to avoid them altogether.

Impact of choosing “Illegal Activities” essay topic ideas

Choosing to discuss illegal activities as a college essay topic can significantly increase the likelihood of raising concerns within the admissions committee.

As discussed by Quad Education Group, this choice could lead them to question your judgment and decision-making abilities, potentially painting you as an irresponsible and immature individual seeking admission. These are two critical aspects to avoid when crafting a college application.

One of the goals is to demonstrate maturity and responsibility. By choosing a more suitable topic idea, you can effectively showcase these qualities and increase your chances of acceptance.

Better Alternatives to Topic Ideas on Illegal Events

Rather than crafting an essay on an illegal activity, consider discussing your aspirations to join the college of choice. Discuss why you believe you’re a good fit for this higher learning institution. You could focus on aspects of your personal growth that demonstrate change as outlined by PrepScholar.

For instance, if you initially struggled with a subject like English or Mathematics, you could discuss how you identified your shortcomings and adapted to a more effective strategy, leading to improved results.

You might also want to highlight your passions, interests, and future goals. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? What activities do you enjoy in your free time? If you’re a swimmer, you could discuss swimming competitions. If you’re passionate about music, you could talk about playing the piano or the violin.

Discussing challenges you’ve overcome can also be powerful. For example, if you moved to the United States and had to learn English to communicate, you could go about sharing that journey.

You can also talk about your cultural background and identity. Show your understanding of different cultures and how you’ve used that understanding to solve a specific problem in your society.

Perhaps you noticed a gap in your community, such as a lack of businesses repairing computers, and you filled that gap by starting your own business. The possibilities are endless. However, it’s crucial to avoid discussing illegal activities, as that path can be dangerous.

Seemingly Impossible topic ideas

What to know about creating an admissions essay on a grandiose claim

Understanding the pitfalls of grandiose claims in an admissions essay is straightforward: they are often unbelievable.

Take, for instance, a case reported by the website Ivy Coach. They encountered a student who had falsely claimed to be a covert CIA agent and the inventor of the M16 rifle. These assertions were easily debunked by the admissions committee, significantly damaging the student’s credibility.

Therefore, it’s crucial to avoid making seemingly impossible claims. They are not only hard to believe, but also easy to research. Something else to know is that if an admissions officer cannot find sufficient evidence to support your claims, your credibility could be compromised just as well. This could make it incredibly challenging to gain admission to the college of your dreams.

Examples of seemingly impossible topic ideas and some general advice to consider

Some examples of seemingly impossible topic ideas could range from being related to the president to journeying to the moon with NASA or even participating in blockbuster films such as Avatar. These are merely examples of potential topics that could pose a significant challenge when it comes to proving their authenticity.

In the context of an admissions essay, the first impression these topics might create is one of incredulity. The reader may find it hard to believe and find themselves questioning the authenticity of the claims. This initial impression could shape their perception of the student, which is not the desired outcome.

Even if you are one of those fortunate students who have worked hard to achieve what seems impossible, detailing such achievements might not be the best approach. The reason is, that it could be hard for others to believe, thereby undermining the credibility of your narrative.

Covid-19 as a topic Idea

Possibility to come off as highly sensitive if not approached carefully

The pandemic has undeniably been a challenging period for students. The abrupt shift in their educational journey has not only disrupted their studies but also stirred up a whirlwind of emotions. Some students harbor pent-up anger and frustration, making this a sensitive topic that demands careful handling. It’s therefore important to acknowledge the hardships you may have endured and the emotional toll it has taken.

Considered a problem for a vast majority of people

COVID-19, as a topic, poses a unique challenge. It’s a subject that resonates with a vast majority of people, making it a common choice for many as discussed by BestColleges. This popularity, however, translates into intense competition.

As an applicant, you’ll find yourself in a sea of contenders, all vying for the same spot you are trying so hard to acquire at the college of your dreams. The difficulty lies not just in standing out, but in presenting something special and intriguing about yourself. There’s a high probability that others have already showcased their unique perspectives on this topic. Therefore, the task of distinguishing yourself becomes even more daunting.

How to Choose a Good College Essay Topic Idea?

Brainstorm on Possible Essay Topic Ideas

Choosing a compelling topic for your college essay is a crucial step in the writing process. Brainstorming potential ideas is fundamental to this process. To brainstorm effectively, consider Big Future’s advice on using broad prompts provided by various colleges and our comprehensive blog post that will not only guide you on how to carry out effective brainstorming but also how to choose a good college essay topic. Use these prompts as a springboard to reflect on significant moments in your life, your past experiences, and the lessons you’ve gleaned from your high school education.

Look for moments in your life that have shaped you, that have allowed you to share your story, and that have influenced who you are today. Write down these pivotal moments, the lessons they taught you, and the stories they spawned. By documenting these, you’ll be able to generate a list of potential topics.

Once you’ve written these stories down on paper, infer the specific topics that best showcase your strengths and present the most authentic version of yourself. By doing so, you’ll be able to craft an engaging and clear essay that is easy to read and resonates with the college admissions committee.

Discussing possible flaws in your essay topic ideas with someone you trust

The brainstorming process needs to come first before the discussion process to avoid the risk of receiving advice that could potentially alter your unique perspective or story.

Seeking second opinions, apart from your own, can be beneficial. It can help you select a topic that is widely supported, thereby allowing you to develop a stronger thesis or foundation for your college admissions essay as outlined by CollegeVine. This approach will not only make your message more memorable and meaningful but also significantly enhance your college admissions efforts.

Focusing on essay topic ideas that allow you to present your personality as authentically as possible

It’s important to consider a topic that allows you to authentically present your personality. Avoid topics that don’t let you be genuine or those that force you to strive for perfection. It’s essential to present your strengths and weaknesses in a balanced manner.

Topics that are too challenging to manage, such as the competitive topics discussed in this blog post, should be avoided. It’s clear that certain topic ideas, such as those dealing with illegal activities or sensitive subjects like sex and drugs, should be avoided.

These topics are indeed college essay topic ideas to avoid and as such can make it difficult for you to express your personality authentically because you’ll be too focused on trying to appear perfect. Remember, the goal is to communicate who you are as a person and what your beliefs are. So, choose your topic wisely and ensure it aligns with your authentic self.

How to Sprinkle Some Magic to a Cliché Topic Idea and Get it to Work Wonders on Your Essay

A+ in the writing of the college admissions essay on a cliché topic caused by the sprinkle of some magic.

To infuse a touch of originality into a clichéd topic for your college admissions essay, it’s crucial to reflect on unique experiences that set you apart. Consider the specific clichéd topic at hand and delve into how your unique experiences have shaped your perspective on it.

Discuss how these experiences have contributed to your personal growth until the time of crafting your admissions essay. A beneficial strategy to create a distinctive narrative is to employ a four-question framework as mentioned and discussed by CollegeVine.

Start by asking yourself, “Who am I?” This question helps you introspect and identify your core values and beliefs. The second question, “Why am I here?” allows you to articulate your purpose and goals. The third question, “What makes me special or unique?” encourages you to highlight your unique experiences, skills, or perspectives. Lastly, “What is important to me?” helps you to express your passions and values.

Incorporating the answers to these questions into your essay will provide a comprehensive picture of who you are and what you bring to the table. Remember, the key to a compelling admissions essay lies in authenticity and self-awareness. By focusing on these elements, you can transform a clichéd topic into a powerful narrative that resonates with the admissions committee.

You want to also consider the following questions when discussing experiences that relate to solving problems under a cliché topic to add depth to your narrative as identified by the Tanabes. First, how have the events and experiences in your life impacted others? Second, why were these experiences significant to you as a student? Lastly, why else did you partake in these experiences? Continually asking ‘why else?’ can help you delve deeper into your personal journey. By doing so, you’ll create a comprehensive admissions essay filled with specific examples and unique experiences that help set a cliché topic essay apart, enhancing your distinctiveness in the college admissions process.

Conclusion

Picking the right topic for your college essay can be tough. But remember, the best topics show who you are and how you’ve grown. Stay away from topics that might upset people or seem clichéd.

We hope this blog post helps you understand what topics to avoid in your college essay. Your essay is your chance to share your story. Make it a good one!

FAQ

What are uncommon college essay topics?

Uncommon college essay topics include but are not limited to topics such as the impact of social media on mental health, the influence of video games on professional skill development, and the importance of pets in the preservation of a human being’s emotional well-being.

What not to say in a “Why this college?” Essay

When writing a college essay, specifically for Harvard, avoid vague statements like ‘Harvard offers high-quality education.’ Instead, detail what distinguishes Harvard, showing deep research and understanding. Be specific in your ‘Why This College?’ essay to reflect your true motivations and knowledge of the institution, making your essay distinctive and demonstrating sincere interest.

What is the best topic for a college essay?

The ideal subject for a college essay allows you to be comfortable when narrating it. It should essentially allow you to portray yourself in the most favorable light, in a way that is both authentic and credible. This approach not only ensures that your narrative is genuine but also resonates with the reader, thereby making your essay more engaging and clear.

What are some creative essay topics?

When considering topics for your college admissions essay, you might want to explore some creative avenues. One such topic could be your experiences in understanding the complexities of other people’s lives. This could involve delving into the challenges they face, which are often difficult to comprehend. The aim would be to portray empathy towards their circumstances, offering a nuanced perspective on their experiences.

Another engaging and creative topic could be the best advice you’ve ever received. This could provide a window into your values and how they have shaped your life.

Resources and References

How to Write a Personal Growth Essay  | AdmissionSight

How to Write a Personal Statement | Coursera

What Not to Write About in Your College Essay, Part I | CATES Tutoring

4 Subjects to Avoid On Your College Essay – College Raptor BlogCollege Raptor

15 College Essay Topics To Avoid and Why | Tips & Examples (quadeducationgroup.com)

Top College Essay Topics to Avoid and Why | 2023-2024 | Ivy Coach

Writing About COVID-19 in Your College Essay | BestColleges

How should I start brainstorming topics for my college essay? – BigFuture | College Board

Discussing Controversial Topics in my College Essay? | CollegeVine

Is it okay to write about a controversial topic for my college essay? | CollegeVine

52 Argumentative Essay Ideas that are Actually Interesting | CollegeVine Blog

11 Cliché College Essay Topics + How to Fix Them | CollegeVine Blog

53 Stellar College Essay Topics to Inspire You (prepscholar.com)

Bad College Essays: 10 Mistakes You Must Avoid (prepscholar.com)

Hezron Kiai

I am a devoted enthusiast and professional on the writing of college essays. Feel free to ask me and my associate questions pertaining this topic.