Avoiding Clichés: How to Make Your College Essay Truly Unique

In the world of college admissions, standing out is crucial. Yet, many students fall into the trap of writing what they think admissions officers want to hear, resulting in essays that blend into the crowd. As a college essay coach with years of experience, I've seen my fair share of clichés. Let's explore how to sidestep these pitfalls and create an essay that's as unique as you are.

1. Beware the "Mission Trip Epiphany"

While volunteer experiences can be transformative, the "I went to a developing country and discovered how fortunate I am" narrative is overused. If you must write about such an experience, focus on specific, unexpected moments rather than broad generalizations about poverty or gratitude.

2. Avoid the "Sports Triumph" Trope

The tale of winning the big game is another common cliché. If sports are central to your story, consider focusing on a moment of failure or a less obvious aspect of your athletic experience, like the relationships you've built or an off-field challenge you've overcome.

3. Steer Clear of Quotation Overload

Starting your essay with a quote from a famous person is a red flag for many admissions officers. Your own words are more valuable and revealing than someone else's.

4. Don't Dwell on Your Resumé

Your essay isn't a place to rehash your accomplishments. Admissions officers can see your achievements elsewhere in your application. Use this space to reveal something they can't find anywhere else.

5. Resist the Urge to "Solve" World Problems

While ambition is admirable, claiming you're going to end world hunger or achieve world peace can come across as naive. Instead, focus on specific, realistic ways you hope to make a difference.

6. Skip the Thesaurus Trap

Using big words to sound smart often backfires. Clear, concise language is more effective and authentic.

7. Avoid the "Eureka" Moment

Sudden realizations about your passion or purpose can feel contrived. Instead, show how your interests and goals have evolved over time.

8. Don't Force Trauma

While difficult experiences can shape us profoundly, don't feel pressured to write about hardships if you haven't faced any major ones. Everyday experiences, approached thoughtfully, can be just as revealing. 

9. Beware of Gimmicks

Unusual formats (writing your essay as a recipe, for example) can be risky. They often distract from your message rather than enhance it.

10. Avoid the "Perfect" Persona

Admissions officers aren't looking for flawless applicants. Showing vulnerability and self-awareness can be more compelling than presenting yourself as infallible.

So, how do you make your essay unique? Start by being honest with yourself. What experiences have genuinely shaped you? What are you passionate about that might surprise people? What questions do you grapple with?

Consider unexpected angles on common topics. Instead of writing about how debate club improved your public speaking, you might explore how it changed your relationship with your younger sibling. Rather than focusing on winning a competition, write about a moment of kindness or collaboration with a competitor.

Remember, the most unique thing about your essay should be you. Your particular way of seeing the world, your voice, your thoughts – these are what will set your essay apart.

Struggling to find a fresh approach to your essay? In our coaching sessions, we'll dig deep to uncover the stories and perspectives that make you unique. We'll work on developing your authentic voice and finding creative ways to tackle even the most common essay topics.

Your college essay is your chance to show admissions officers who you really are. Let's make sure it's a true reflection of you, not a collection of clichés. Book a consultation today, and let's start crafting an essay that's as distinctive as you are.