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Essay on My First Day At College – Short & Long Essay Examples

Essay on My First Day At College: The first day at college is a memorable experience for every student. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in their lives, filled with excitement, nervousness, and anticipation. In this essay, I will share my own personal experience of my first day at college. From the nerves of meeting new people to the thrill of exploring the campus, I will recount the emotions and events that made this day unforgettable. Join me as I take you through this significant milestone in my life.

Table of Contents

My First Day At College Essay Writing Tips

1. Begin by describing your feelings and emotions on the night before your first day at college. Were you excited, nervous, or a mix of both? Share your thoughts and expectations for the upcoming day.

2. Talk about your preparations for the first day at college. Did you pack your bag, choose your outfit, or set your alarm clock? Describe any rituals or routines you followed to ensure a smooth start to your college journey.

3. Share your first impressions of the college campus. What did you notice first? Was it the architecture, the students, or the atmosphere? Describe the sights, sounds, and smells that stood out to you on your first day.

4. Discuss your interactions with fellow students and faculty members on your first day. Did you make any new friends, or have any memorable conversations? How did you feel about meeting new people and navigating social dynamics in a new environment?

5. Reflect on your experiences in your first classes. What subjects did you study, and how did you feel about the material? Were there any challenges or surprises that you encountered in your academic pursuits on the first day?

6. Share any memorable moments or funny anecdotes from your first day at college. Did you get lost on campus, struggle to find your classroom, or have any unexpected encounters? These moments can add humor and personality to your essay.

7. Conclude your essay by reflecting on the overall experience of your first day at college. How did it compare to your expectations, and what did you learn from the day? Share any insights, lessons, or resolutions that you gained from this new chapter in your life.

8. Proofread and revise your essay to ensure clarity, coherence, and correctness. Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors, and make any necessary edits to improve the flow and structure of your writing.

By following these writing tips and incorporating personal details and reflections, you can create a compelling and engaging essay on your first day at college. Good luck!

Essay on My First Day At College in 10 Lines – Examples

1. My first day at college was filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness. 2. I woke up early, eager to start this new chapter in my life. 3. The campus was bustling with students, all heading to their classes. 4. I felt a bit overwhelmed by the size of the campus and the number of buildings. 5. I struggled to find my first class, but eventually made it just in time. 6. The professor was welcoming and the other students were friendly. 7. I was relieved to see some familiar faces from orientation. 8. The day was filled with introductions, syllabus reviews, and icebreaker activities. 9. By the end of the day, I felt more comfortable and excited for the semester ahead. 10. Overall, my first day at college was a memorable and positive experience.

Sample Essay on My First Day At College in 100-180 Words

My first day at college was both exciting and nerve-wracking. As I walked through the campus gates, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of freedom and independence. The campus was bustling with students, and I could feel the energy in the air.

I was anxious about making new friends and navigating my way through the unfamiliar surroundings. However, as the day went on, I started to feel more comfortable and at ease. I attended my first classes, met my professors, and explored the campus.

One of the highlights of my first day was meeting my classmates and engaging in interesting discussions. I realized that college was a place where I could learn, grow, and challenge myself in ways I had never imagined.

Overall, my first day at college was a memorable experience that marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life. I was excited to embark on this new journey and make the most of the opportunities that awaited me.

Short Essay on My First Day At College in 200-500 Words

My first day at college was a mix of excitement and nervousness. I had been looking forward to this day for years, but now that it was finally here, I couldn’t help but feel a little overwhelmed. As I walked through the gates of the campus, I couldn’t believe that I was finally a college student.

The campus was bustling with activity as students hurried to their classes. I felt a little lost at first, not knowing where to go or who to talk to. But as I looked around, I realized that I wasn’t the only one feeling this way. Many of my fellow freshmen looked just as lost as I did, and it made me feel a little better knowing that I wasn’t alone.

I finally found my way to my first class, and as I sat down at my desk, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement. This was the beginning of a new chapter in my life, and I was determined to make the most of it. The professor walked in and started the class, and I was immediately captivated by the subject matter. I had always loved learning, and I knew that college was going to be a place where I could truly indulge my passion for knowledge.

After my first class, I had a break before my next one, so I decided to explore the campus a little bit. I was amazed by the beauty of the buildings and the lush greenery that surrounded them. I could already tell that this was going to be a place where I could feel at home.

As the day went on, I met some of my classmates and started to feel more comfortable in my new surroundings. We exchanged phone numbers and made plans to study together, and I felt grateful to have already made some friends on my first day.

By the end of the day, I was exhausted but exhilarated. I had survived my first day at college, and I couldn’t wait to see what the rest of my time here had in store for me. I knew that there would be challenges ahead, but I also knew that I was ready to face them head-on.

My first day at college was a whirlwind of emotions, but it was also a day that I would never forget. It marked the beginning of a new journey for me, one that I was excited to embark on. I knew that college would be a time of growth and discovery, and I was eager to see where this path would lead me.

Essay on My First Day At College in 1000-1500 Words

My first day at college was a mix of excitement, nervousness, and anticipation. I had been looking forward to this day for months, and now that it was finally here, I couldn’t believe it. As I walked through the gates of the college campus, I felt a rush of emotions wash over me.

The campus was bustling with activity as students hurried to their classes, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer size of the place. The buildings were grand and imposing, and I couldn’t wait to explore every corner of this new world that I had entered.

I made my way to the registration desk, where I was greeted by a friendly staff member who handed me my schedule and a map of the campus. I felt a sense of relief knowing that I had everything I needed to navigate my way through the day.

My first class was English Literature, and as I walked into the lecture hall, I was struck by the sight of so many students gathered in one place. The professor introduced himself and began the class with a brief overview of the course syllabus. I was amazed by his knowledge and passion for the subject, and I knew that I was going to enjoy studying under his guidance.

After the class ended, I made my way to the cafeteria for lunch. The food was delicious, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of camaraderie as I sat at a table with my classmates, discussing our first impressions of college life.

The rest of the day passed in a blur of classes, lectures, and meetings with professors. I was overwhelmed by the amount of information that was being thrown at me, but I was determined to make the most of this opportunity and learn as much as I could.

As the day drew to a close, I found myself feeling a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration. I had survived my first day at college, and I couldn’t wait to see what the rest of my time here had in store for me.

In the days and weeks that followed, I settled into a routine of attending classes, studying in the library, and socializing with my classmates. I made new friends, discovered new interests, and challenged myself in ways that I never thought possible.

College was a time of growth and self-discovery for me. I learned to think critically, communicate effectively, and work collaboratively with others. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone and took risks that ultimately paid off in ways that I never could have imagined.

Looking back on my first day at college, I realize now that it was just the beginning of a journey that would shape me in ways that I never thought possible. I am grateful for the experiences and opportunities that college has given me, and I know that the lessons I learned during those formative years will stay with me for the rest of my life.

In conclusion, my first day at college was a whirlwind of emotions and experiences that set the tone for the rest of my time there. It was a day of new beginnings, challenges, and opportunities that I embraced with open arms. I am grateful for the memories and friendships that I made during my college years, and I will always look back on that first day with fondness and gratitude.

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Essay On My First Day At College in 150, 350 and 500 Words

A student’s life begins anew when he graduates from school and advances to college. His memory of his first day at college will always remain etched in his heart. The purpose of writing practice in English is to ask students to compose an essay about their first day at college. The following is part of their first day in college essay. In order to help students write their own essays about their first days at college, I’ve provided a sample essay and a sample paragraph about mine.

Table of Contents

 A 150-word essay about my first day at college

 My first day at college was an emotional experience for me, so writing about it was difficult for me. The day I started that new chapter of my life was a turning point in my life. I enrolled in Haji Muhammad Mohsin College after passing the SSC examination. On the first day, I arrived before 9 AM. My first action was to write the procedure on the notice board. It was a three-class day for me. It was English class first. In the classroom, I sat down.

 A large number of students were present. A lively conversation was taking place between them. There was a lot of interaction between the students. Though I had never met any of them before, I quickly made friends with a few of them. In the classroom, the professor arrived on time. The rolls were called very quickly at first. During his speech, he used English as his language.

 He discussed the responsibilities of a college student. My teachers’ lectures were enjoyable, and I enjoyed each class. In the afternoon, I visited several areas of the college after class. Compared to the college library, the college library was much larger. Thousands of books were on display, which amazed me. A memorable day in my life was my first day in college.

 Essay on My First Day at College in 350+ Words

 It was an important day in my life when I attended college for the first time. I will never forget that day. When I was in school. My elder brothers and sisters provided me with a glimpse of college life. Having just started college, I looked forward to it with much anticipation. It seemed to me that college life would offer me a freer life, where there would be fewer restrictions and fewer teachers to worry about. It was finally the day that had been longed for.

 A government college was opened in my city. As soon as I stepped onto the college grounds, I was filled with hope and aspirations. Seeing the diversified perspective offered by the college was a pleasant surprise. I had never seen anything like it at our school or around it. Many unknown faces appeared in front of me.

 As a freshman in college, I experienced some very strange things. My surprise was sparked by seeing students playing indoor and outdoor games as well as listening to radio broadcasts during class time. It is not prohibited to wear a uniform. Students’ movements are free, as I observed. It is up to them to decide what they want to do.

 The newly admitted students were all in good spirits when I arrived. It was a pleasure to make friends with them all. It was a pleasure to move around the college. As I entered the college library, I was delighted to find books on every topic I wanted to learn about. On my first day at the college, I was keen to learn more about the laboratory and conduct experiments. The notice board displayed the timetable for my class. Attending classes was something I did. There is a difference between the method of teaching at the college and at the school.

 A specialized teacher teaches each subject. Classes do not ask questions. Failure to learn a lesson does not result in a reprimand from the professor. This is simply a matter of reminding students they have responsibilities. The school has a homely atmosphere, so students lack access to snacks. Therefore, they feel the comfortable rhythm of life has changed and I returned home feeling a mixture of duty and liberty.

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 My First Day at College Essay In 500+ Words

 a brief introduction:.

A memorable event in my life was my first day at college. When I was a boy, I dreamed of studying in a college. A college was attended by my eldest brother. During our conversation, he told me stories about his college. My mind immediately traveled to another world when I read those stories. As a student, I found college to be a totally different experience from my school. My dream of attending college came true because of that. My college experience seemed to me to be an opportunity to get rid of the rigid school rules that I had gone to school under. The SSC examination was finally passed and I was able to enroll in a college. Some colleges gave me admission forms. Haji Mohammad Mohsin College selected me for admission after I took the admission tests at those colleges. The event marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life.

  Preparation:

My college life had been on my mind for quite some time. It was finally here. As soon as I arose from my bed, I prepared breakfast. On my way to college, I arrived there well before 9 a.m. In the morning, the routine was written on the noticeboard. It was a busy day for me with three classes. There was a difference in classrooms between my classes and I was surprised by it.

  Classroom experience:

It was English that I studied in my first class. It was time for me to take my seat in the classroom. Many students attended. A lively conversation was taking place between them. There was a lot of student interaction going on. I became friends with some of them in no time, despite not knowing any of them before. In the classroom, the professor arrived on time. He called the roll quickly. After that, he began to speak. 

English was his first language. College students have responsibilities and duties, he said. He held my attention raptly. It was a very informative lecture and I enjoyed it a lot. The next class was Bengali’s first paper. The class was held in a different classroom. Bengali short stories were the topic of the teacher’s lecture in that class. 

My previous school’s educational standards are different from the colleges I am attending. After attending the classes, I understood the difference. Additionally, the college had a better method of teaching. Students were treated politely by the professor as if they were friends.

Libraries, common rooms, and canteens at the college:

After attending the classes, I visited the different parts of the college. There was a large library at the college. Thousands of books were there, and I was astonished. It was a popular place to study. A large crowd of students was chatting in the students’ common. There were also indoor games being played by some of the students. Next, I stopped by the college canteen. Some of my friends and I had tea and snacks there. Everyone on campus was having a good time and enjoying themselves.

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My First Day at College Essay | 2nd Year, 1st Year | 1000 Words

My First Day at College

College is dreamland of every student’s educational career. It is a beautiful period of learning, enjoyment, freedom and friendship. Sweet memories of college life are simply amazing. They have an everlasting impact on human memory.

Related Quotes:

1. What a beautiful chapter of a student’s life, College life is!

2. Colleges are places where pebbles are polished and diamonds are dimmed.

3. Life in a college is more than a serious effort to get education. Moreover college is a place of making friends and chalking programs to go out to the pictures, cinemas and picnics.

College life has its own charm and beauty. Each and every moment spent there is always worth-living, worth-enjoying and also worth-remembering. Out of all the days, we can never forget the first day of college life.

4. A New place and a New Life with a New lifestyle.

First day of college is really very special and memorable for every student.  The first of anything impresses us most. That is why we hardly ever forget our first love, our first success, our first friend. Likewise, we cannot forget our first day at college, the day that symbolizes the transition period from one life, so to say, into another. It comes to my mind again and again with those alien but lively feelings, those impressions, and sights and sounds.

At last the result of matriculation examination was declared and I came out with flying colors. After I passed my school examination with good grades, many excited and heated discussions took place on the choice of subjects and college. I decided to take admission in Government College which was the biggest college of my city. I had heard a lot of stories about college life from my elder sibling and relatives. According to them college is not as strict as school. I was full of excitement, inner joy and high hopes for a promising future. I thought college life would be full of pleasures and of course it was. College life is not as strict as the school life.

On the very first day, I got up early in the morning as I was much excited for the college life. I offered Dawn Prayer and took a hearty bath and got ready for the college. I could even do breakfast because of excitement. As soon as I stepped into the college, I felt like I have entered a new world. It was indeed a completely new world for me. The college had a wonderful building, lovely playgrounds and devoted Professors. The grand traditions, good mannerism, and liberal atmosphere made a great difference to my life. My first-day entry in college always fascinates me. My first day was an unforgettable experience of my educational life.

5. My impressions of the first day at college are still fresh in my memory. It seems impossible to erase those Sweet memories.

On first September, I got up early in the morning, took bath and said my prayers. Meanwhile, my mother prepared breakfast for me. I hurriedly took my breakfast and went to college by bus. As soon as I stepped into the college, I felt like I have entered a new world. It was indeed a completely new world for me. The college had a wonderful building, lovely playgrounds and devoted Professors. The grand traditions, good mannerism, and liberal atmosphere made a great difference to my life. My first-day entry in college always fascinates me. When I reached the gate of the college, some senior students of the college were standing there. Some of them where in a jolly mood and wanted to befool the new-comers. They had worked out their own plans to make the new-comers indulge in strange actions. However, we decided to act together to avoid their practical jokes. Some of the senior were approaching us with an air of superiority. They were large in number so they made us subdue immediately. They asked us to do strange things like singing ridiculous songs and doing monkey pranks. The sense of self- respect did not allow me to act according to their wishes. Still they forced me to obey their orders. I felt a little humiliated but took it sportingly.

Meanwhile, a senior Professor of the college came to our rescue. He asked the boys to assemble in the hall were the Principal would address them. We want to the hall. The Principal addressed the students and advised them not to take part in politics at college. They should pay full attention to their studies and try their best to achieve their goal. Afterwards, a Professor guided us about our time-table and class rooms.

Our first period was of English. We want to the classroom and set on the benches. A Professor entered the room, the boys stood up greet him. He took our roll-call and entered the names of the students in his attitude register. He did not teach us but advised us about our future life. He stressed what we should not misuse the liberty here rather we should keep full use of the opportunity to achieve our end. Afterwards, we moved another room where our teacher in Arabic came. He delivered his lecture on the importance of Arabic language and advised us to come to the class with our books. Then there was no other period on that day. So, we want to the library and read some newspapers. We discussed the lecture of our teacher and decided to work very hard from the beginning to get through the examinations getting very good marks. Then we left the library, shook hands with one another and departed. I took a bus and reached my home. I found a considerable between the school life and that of college. I concluded that liberty or freedom must not be misused at all.

At the end of the first day, I returned home. When I was returning home, all the memories of my first day at College came to my mind. It was like a film. It had fun and fear. I remembered all the happenings and reached home with a smile. I had entered the college to gain knowledge and wisdom and to become a good citizen. Thanks, Almighty Allah I got what I wished. I wrote my memories in a special notebook.

In the end, I can say that college life is a beautiful blend of joys and memories. Right from my first day, every day spent in College was full of colorful events. Surely, College life is an ideal part of student life.

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Essay on First Day At College

Students are often asked to write an essay on First Day At College in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on First Day At College

My first day at college began with a mix of nerves and excitement. I stepped onto the big campus feeling like a small fish in a huge pond. The tall buildings and busy students rushing by were a little overwhelming but thrilling too.

In my first class, I saw many new faces. Some looked as nervous as I felt, while others seemed at ease. We all sat quietly, waiting for the teacher. When class started, the room buzzed with energy.

Exploring the Campus

During break, I walked around the college, taking in the sights. The library was huge, and the cafeteria had so many food choices. Everything was fresh and interesting.

Ending the Day

As the day ended, I felt tired but happy. I had made a couple of friends, learned my way around, and was excited for what the next day would bring. My college journey had just begun.

250 Words Essay on First Day At College

Starting college, new faces and places.

When you walk onto the campus, you see so many new faces. It’s a mix of feelings. You might feel excited to make new friends and a bit nervous too. The college buildings are bigger than school, and there are so many rooms and halls to find.

Classes and Teachers

In the classroom, everyone is a stranger, but soon they will be your classmates for years. The teachers introduce themselves and talk about the subjects they will teach. They seem kind and know a lot. They tell us that they are there to help us learn and grow.

Freedom and Responsibility

College is different from school because you get more freedom. You can decide which clubs to join and what you want to study more about. But with freedom comes responsibility. You need to manage your time and make sure you do all your work.

Looking Ahead

At the end of the day, you go home tired but happy. You have a lot to think about, like your classes, homework, and new friends. The first day is just the start, and there’s so much more to come. You feel ready and excited for the days ahead at college.

500 Words Essay on First Day At College

My arrival at college.

My first day at college was a mix of excitement and nerves. I woke up early, eager to start this new chapter in my life. After getting ready, I stepped out of my house with a bag full of books and a heart full of dreams. The journey to college felt different. The roads, the trees, and even the morning air seemed to be telling me that I was stepping into a new world.

Entering New Grounds

Meeting new people.

In the first class, I sat next to a girl who had a friendly smile. She said her name was Sarah, and we started talking. It felt good to make a new friend on the first day. We shared our thoughts about the first day, and it was nice to know someone else felt the same way as I did. Throughout the day, I met many new people. Some of them might become my friends, and some might just stay as faces I pass by in the halls.

First Lessons

The teachers entered the classrooms, and the lessons began. It was different from school. The teachers talked about big ideas and asked us what we thought. It was not just about listening; it was also about speaking up and sharing your own thoughts. I liked this new way of learning. It made me feel grown-up and important.

Feeling at Home

By the end of the day, I felt tired but happy. I had been worried that I might not like college or that it would be too hard. But after just one day, I felt like I belonged there. It was a place where I could learn new things, meet new people, and grow up.

Looking Forward

As I walked back through the college gates at the end of the day, I looked back at the building. It was no longer just a big structure; it was a part of my life now. I was excited to come back the next day and continue this adventure. The first day at college was over, but my journey had just begun.

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Home — Essay Samples — Education — College Students — First Day at College Experience

First Day at College experience

• Categories: College Life College Students Expectations

About this sample

Words: 896 |

Published: Jul 7, 2022

Words: 896 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Works Cited:

• Aller, S. (2019). The story behind the beloved book Little Women. National Geographic Kids. https://www.natgeokids.com/uk/discover/history/general-history/story-behind-little-women/
• Bussey, T. J. (2015). Little Women. Salem Press Encyclopedia of Literature.
• Louisa May Alcott. (2019). Encyclopaedia Britannica.
• Lyon, D. (2018). The feminist legacy of Little Women. Literary Hub.
• McCormack, K. (2021). 10 surprising facts about Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women. Smithsonian Magazine.
• Nissen, E. (2018). The legacy of Little Women: How Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel became a feminist touchstone. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/the-legacy-of-little-women-how-louisa-may-alcotts-classic-novel-became-a-feminist-touchstone-107181
• Olsen, S. (2019). Little Women: A feminist reading. Humanities Commons. https://hcommons.org/deposits/item/hc:25904/
• Silverthorne, D. (2018). The secret feminist history of Little Women. Independent.
• Thomason, K. (2019). Little Women: Themes & analysis. CliffsNotes.
• Urbanski, H. (2016). Little Women and the feminist imagination: Criticism, controversy, personal essays. Routledge.

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An Essay on My First Day at College

• Introduction
• Arrival and Orientation
• Initial Impressions
• Navigating Challenges
• Memorable Encounters

The first day at college is a milestone in every student’s life. It marks the beginning of a new journey filled with excitement, challenges, and countless opportunities. I vividly remember my own first day, where a mix of nerves and anticipation filled the air. The air seemed charged with potential, as if the very atmosphere held the promise of knowledge and growth. With my backpack slung over one shoulder and a heart brimming with dreams, I stepped onto the campus, ready to embark on this transformative adventure.

College life is a life of freedom. (Benazir Bhutto)

As I approached the college gates, a sense of awe washed over me. The sprawling campus seemed like a bustling city in itself, teeming with students from various walks of life. The orientation session provided a warm welcome, with faculty members extending their support and guidance. They shared valuable insights about the college, its traditions, and the resources available to students.

The classrooms, with their neat rows of desks, looked like stages awaiting the actors. The library, a treasure trove of knowledge, beckoned with its shelves of books. The campus grounds offered a serene escape, inviting students to pause and reflect. Each corner held a promise of discovery, and I felt a surge of eagerness to explore them all.

Education is not preparation for life, education is life itself. (Anonymous)

You May Like: An Essay on Pleasures of College Life

The first day brought its own set of challenges. Finding my way around the campus was like solving a puzzle, but with every wrong turn, I stumbled upon a new corner of this academic wonderland. Time management suddenly became paramount, as lectures, assignments, and extracurricular activities jostled for attention. Adapting to the pace of college life required patience and a willingness to learn.

Amidst the whirlwind of activity, I had the chance to meet a diverse array of fellow students. Each person brought their own unique story, adding vibrant hues to the tapestry of our college community. From classmates to roommates, every encounter was an opportunity to learn, grow, and form lasting connections.

Colleges don’t make fools, they only develop them. (Richard Steve)

One memorable encounter was with a senior who offered a helping hand, sharing tips and advice on navigating the college terrain. Their kindness and warmth reassured me that I was not alone in this new adventure.

Looking back, that first day at college was like starting a grand adventure. It taught me a lot about being strong when things get tough and making friends in new places. I learned that there’s so much more to learn and discover in this big world. As the sun set on that special day, I felt like a brave explorer, excited to see what comes next. That first day wasn’t just the beginning of college; it was the start of a whole journey of learning and growing that will last a lifetime.

College is a fountain of knowledge. (Martin Luther King)

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Ultimate Guide to Writing Your College Essay

Tips for writing an effective college essay.

College admissions essays are an important part of your college application and gives you the chance to show colleges and universities your character and experiences. This guide will give you tips to write an effective college essay.

Want free help with your college essay?

UPchieve connects you with knowledgeable and friendly college advisors—online, 24/7, and completely free. Get 1:1 help brainstorming topics, outlining your essay, revising a draft, or editing grammar.

Writing a strong college admissions essay

Learn about the elements of a solid admissions essay.

Avoiding common admissions essay mistakes

Learn some of the most common mistakes made on college essays

Brainstorming tips for your college essay

Stuck on what to write your college essay about? Here are some exercises to help you get started.

How formal should the tone of your college essay be?

Learn how formal your college essay should be and get tips on how to bring out your natural voice.

Taking your college essay to the next level

Hear an admissions expert discuss the appropriate level of depth necessary in your college essay.

Student Stories

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Get the perspective of a current college student on how he approached the admissions essay.

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Student story: admissions essay about a past mistake, how to write a college application essay, tips for writing an effective application essay, sample college essay 1 with feedback, sample college essay 2 with feedback.

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12 Strategies to Writing the Perfect College Essay

College admission committees sift through thousands of college essays each year. Here’s how to make yours stand out.

Pamela Reynolds

When it comes to deciding who they will admit into their programs, colleges consider many criteria, including high school grades, extracurricular activities, and ACT and SAT scores. But in recent years, more colleges are no longer considering test scores.

Instead, many (including Harvard through 2026) are opting for “test-blind” admission policies that give more weight to other elements in a college application. This policy change is seen as fairer to students who don’t have the means or access to testing, or who suffer from test anxiety.

So, what does this mean for you?

Simply that your college essay, traditionally a requirement of any college application, is more important than ever.

A college essay is your unique opportunity to introduce yourself to admissions committees who must comb through thousands of applications each year. It is your chance to stand out as someone worthy of a seat in that classroom.

A well-written and thoughtful essay—reflecting who you are and what you believe—can go a long way to separating your application from the slew of forgettable ones that admissions officers read. Indeed, officers may rely on them even more now that many colleges are not considering test scores.

Below we’ll discuss a few strategies you can use to help your essay stand out from the pack. We’ll touch on how to start your essay, what you should write for your college essay, and elements that make for a great college essay.

Be Authentic

More than any other consideration, you should choose a topic or point of view that is consistent with who you truly are.

Readers can sense when writers are inauthentic.

Inauthenticity could mean the use of overly flowery language that no one would ever use in conversation, or it could mean choosing an inconsequential topic that reveals very little about who you are.

Use your own voice, sense of humor, and a natural way of speaking.

Whatever subject you choose, make sure it’s something that’s genuinely important to you and not a subject you’ve chosen just to impress. You can write about a specific experience, hobby, or personality quirk that illustrates your strengths, but also feel free to write about your weaknesses.

Honesty about traits, situations, or a childhood background that you are working to improve may resonate with the reader more strongly than a glib victory speech.

Grab the Reader From the Start

You’ll be competing with so many other applicants for an admission officer’s attention.

Therefore, start your essay with an opening sentence or paragraph that immediately seizes the imagination. This might be a bold statement, a thoughtful quote, a question you pose, or a descriptive scene.

Starting your essay in a powerful way with a clear thesis statement can often help you along in the writing process. If your task is to tell a good story, a bold beginning can be a natural prelude to getting there, serving as a roadmap, engaging the reader from the start, and presenting the purpose of your writing.

Focus on Deeper Themes

Some essay writers think they will impress committees by loading an essay with facts, figures, and descriptions of activities, like wins in sports or descriptions of volunteer work. But that’s not the point.

College admissions officers are interested in learning more about who you are as a person and what makes you tick.

They want to know what has brought you to this stage in life. They want to read about realizations you may have come to through adversity as well as your successes, not just about how many games you won while on the soccer team or how many people you served at a soup kitchen.

Let the reader know how winning the soccer game helped you develop as a person, friend, family member, or leader. Make a connection with your soup kitchen volunteerism and how it may have inspired your educational journey and future aspirations. What did you discover about yourself?

Show Don’t Tell

As you expand on whatever theme you’ve decided to explore in your essay, remember to show, don’t tell.

The most engaging writing “shows” by setting scenes and providing anecdotes, rather than just providing a list of accomplishments and activities.

Reciting a list of activities is also boring. An admissions officer will want to know about the arc of your emotional journey too.

Try Doing Something Different

If you want your essay to stand out, think about approaching your subject from an entirely new perspective. While many students might choose to write about their wins, for instance, what if you wrote an essay about what you learned from all your losses?

If you are an especially talented writer, you might play with the element of surprise by crafting an essay that leaves the response to a question to the very last sentence.

You may want to stay away from well-worn themes entirely, like a sports-related obstacle or success, volunteer stories, immigration stories, moving, a summary of personal achievements or overcoming obstacles.

However, such themes are popular for a reason. They represent the totality of most people’s lives coming out of high school. Therefore, it may be less important to stay away from these topics than to take a fresh approach.

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Write With the Reader in Mind

Writing for the reader means building a clear and logical argument in which one thought flows naturally from another.

Use transitions between paragraphs.

Think about any information you may have left out that the reader may need to know. Are there ideas you have included that do not help illustrate your theme?

Be sure you can answer questions such as: Does what you have written make sense? Is the essay organized? Does the opening grab the reader? Is there a strong ending? Have you given enough background information? Is it wordy?

Write Several Drafts

Set your essay aside for a few days and come back to it after you’ve had some time to forget what you’ve written. Often, you’ll discover you have a whole new perspective that enhances your ability to make revisions.

Start writing months before your essay is due to give yourself enough time to write multiple drafts. A good time to start could be as early as the summer before your senior year when homework and extracurricular activities take up less time.

Read It Aloud

Writer’s tip : Reading your essay aloud can instantly uncover passages that sound clumsy, long-winded, or false.

Don’t Repeat

If you’ve mentioned an activity, story, or anecdote in some other part of your application, don’t repeat it again in your essay.

Your essay should tell college admissions officers something new. Whatever you write in your essay should be in philosophical alignment with the rest of your application.

Also, be sure you’ve answered whatever question or prompt may have been posed to you at the outset.

Ask Others to Read Your Essay

Be sure the people you ask to read your essay represent different demographic groups—a teacher, a parent, even a younger sister or brother.

Ask each reader what they took from the essay and listen closely to what they have to say. If anyone expresses confusion, revise until the confusion is cleared up.

Pay Attention to Form

Although there are often no strict word limits for college essays, most essays are shorter rather than longer. Common App, which students can use to submit to multiple colleges, suggests that essays stay at about 650 words.

“While we won’t as a rule stop reading after 650 words, we cannot promise that an overly wordy essay will hold our attention for as long as you’d hoped it would,” the Common App website states.

In reviewing other technical aspects of your essay, be sure that the font is readable, that the margins are properly spaced, that any dialogue is set off properly, and that there is enough spacing at the top. Your essay should look clean and inviting to readers.

End Your Essay With a “Kicker”

In journalism, a kicker is the last punchy line, paragraph, or section that brings everything together.

It provides a lasting impression that leaves the reader satisfied and impressed by the points you have artfully woven throughout your piece.

So, here’s our kicker: Be concise and coherent, engage in honest self-reflection, and include vivid details and anecdotes that deftly illustrate your point.

While writing a fantastic essay may not guarantee you get selected, it can tip the balance in your favor if admissions officers are considering a candidate with a similar GPA and background.

Write, revise, revise again, and good luck!

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About the Author

Pamela Reynolds is a Boston-area feature writer and editor whose work appears in numerous publications. She is the author of “Revamp: A Memoir of Travel and Obsessive Renovation.”

How Involved Should Parents and Guardians Be in High School Student College Applications and Admissions?

There are several ways parents can lend support to their children during the college application process. Here's how to get the ball rolling.

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How to Write a Great College Essay, Step-by-Step

College Admissions , College Essays

Writing your personal statement for your college application is an undeniably overwhelming project. Your essay is your big shot to show colleges who you are—it's totally reasonable to get stressed out. But don't let that stress paralyze you.

This guide will walk you through each step of the essay writing process to help you understand exactly what you need to do to write the best possible personal statement . I'm also going to follow an imaginary student named Eva as she plans and writes her college essay, from her initial organization and brainstorming to her final edits. By the end of this article, you'll have all the tools you need to create a fantastic, effective college essay.

So how do you write a good college essay? The process starts with finding the best possible topic , which means understanding what the prompt is asking for and taking the time to brainstorm a variety of options. Next, you'll determine how to create an interesting essay that shows off your unique perspective and write multiple drafts in order to hone your structure and language. Once your writing is as effective and engaging as possible, you'll do a final sweep to make sure everything is correct .

This guide covers the following steps:

#1: Organizing #2: Brainstorming #3: Picking a topic #4: Making a plan #5: Writing a draft #6: Editing your draft #7: Finalizing your draft #8: Repeating the process

Step 1: Get Organized

The first step in how to write a college essay is figuring out what you actually need to do. Although many schools are now on the Common App, some very popular colleges, including Rutgers and University of California, still have their own applications and writing requirements. Even for Common App schools, you may need to write a supplemental essay or provide short answers to questions.

Before you get started, you should know exactly what essays you need to write. Having this information allows you to plan the best approach to each essay and helps you cut down on work by determining whether you can use an essay for more than one prompt.

Start Early

Writing good college essays involves a lot of work: you need dozens of hours to get just one personal statement properly polished , and that's before you even start to consider any supplemental essays.

In order to make sure you have plenty of time to brainstorm, write, and edit your essay (or essays), I recommend starting at least two months before your first deadline . The last thing you want is to end up with a low-quality essay you aren't proud of because you ran out of time and had to submit something unfinished.

Determine What You Need to Do

As I touched on above, each college has its own essay requirements, so you'll need to go through and determine what exactly you need to submit for each school . This process is simple if you're only using the Common App, since you can easily view the requirements for each school under the "My Colleges" tab. Watch out, though, because some schools have a dedicated "Writing Supplement" section, while others (even those that want a full essay) will put their prompts in the "Questions" section.

It gets trickier if you're applying to any schools that aren't on the Common App. You'll need to look up the essay requirements for each college—what's required should be clear on the application itself, or you can look under the "how to apply" section of the school's website.

Once you've determined the requirements for each school, I recommend making yourself a chart with the school name, word limit, and application deadline on one side and the prompt or prompts you need to respond to on the other . That way you'll be able to see exactly what you need to do and when you need to do it by.

The hardest part about writing your college essays is getting started. 

Decide Where to Start

If you have one essay that's due earlier than the others, start there. Otherwise, start with the essay for your top choice school.

I would also recommend starting with a longer personal statement before moving on to shorter supplementary essays , since the 500-700 word essays tend to take quite a bit longer than 100-250 word short responses. The brainstorming you do for the long essay may help you come up with ideas you like for the shorter ones as well.

Also consider whether some of the prompts are similar enough that you could submit the same essay to multiple schools . Doing so can save you some time and let you focus on a few really great essays rather than a lot of mediocre ones.

However, don't reuse essays for dissimilar or very school-specific prompts, especially "why us" essays . If a college asks you to write about why you're excited to go there, admissions officers want to see evidence that you're genuinely interested. Reusing an essay about another school and swapping out the names is the fastest way to prove you aren't.

Example: Eva's College List

Eva is applying early to Emory University and regular decision to University of Washington, UCLA, and Reed College. Emory, the University of Washington, and Reed both use the Common App, while University of Washington, Emory, and Reed all use the Coalition App.

Even though she's only applying to four schools, Eva has a lot to do: two essays for UW, four for the UCLA application, one for the Common App (or the Coalition App), and two essays for Emory. Many students will have fewer requirements to complete, but those who are applying to very selective schools or a number of schools on different applications will have as many or even more responses to write.

Eva's first deadline is early decision for Emory, she'll start by writing the Common App essay, and then work on the Emory supplements. (For the purposes of this post, we'll focus on the Common App essay.)

Pro tip: If this sounds like a lot of work, that's because it is. Writing essays for your college applications is demanding and takes a lot of time and thought. You don't have to do it alone, though. PrepScholar has helped students like you get into top-tier colleges like Stanford, Yale, Harvard, and Brown. Our essay experts can help you craft amazing essays that boost your chances of getting into your dream school . 

Step 2: Brainstorm

Next up in how to write a college essay: brainstorming essay ideas. There are tons of ways to come up with ideas for your essay topic: I've outlined three below. I recommend trying all of them and compiling a list of possible topics, then narrowing it down to the very best one or, if you're writing multiple essays, the best few.

Keep in mind as you brainstorm that there's no best college essay topic, just the best topic for you . Don't feel obligated to write about something because you think you should—those types of essays tend to be boring and uninspired. Similarly, don't simply write about the first idea that crosses your mind because you don't want to bother trying to think of something more interesting. Take the time to come up with a topic you're really excited about and that you can write about in detail.

Analyze the Prompts

One way to find possible topics is to think deeply about the college's essay prompt. What are they asking you for? Break them down and analyze every angle.

Does the question include more than one part ? Are there multiple tasks you need to complete?

What do you think the admissions officers are hoping to learn about you ?

In cases where you have more than one choice of prompt, does one especially appeal to you ? Why?

Let's dissect one of the University of Washington prompts as an example:

"Our families and communities often define us and our individual worlds. Community might refer to your cultural group, extended family, religious group, neighborhood or school, sports team or club, co-workers, etc. Describe the world you come from and how you, as a product of it, might add to the diversity of the UW. "

This question is basically asking how your personal history, such as your childhood, family, groups you identify with etc. helped you become the person you are now. It offers a number of possible angles.

You can talk about the effects of either your family life (like your relationship with your parents or what your household was like growing up) or your cultural history (like your Jewish faith or your Venezuelan heritage). You can also choose between focusing on positive or negative effects of your family or culture. No matter what however, the readers definitely want to hear about your educational goals (i.e. what you hope to get out of college) and how they're related to your personal experience.

As you try to think of answers for a prompt, imagine about what you would say if you were asked the question by a friend or during a get-to-know-you icebreaker. After all, admissions officers are basically just people who you want to get to know you.

The essay questions can make a great jumping off point, but don't feel married to them. Most prompts are general enough that you can come up with an idea and then fit it to the question.

Consider Important Experiences, Events, and Ideas in Your Life

What experience, talent, interest or other quirk do you have that you might want to share with colleges? In other words, what makes you you? Possible topics include hobbies, extracurriculars, intellectual interests, jobs, significant one-time events, pieces of family history, or anything else that has shaped your perspective on life.

Unexpected or slightly unusual topics are often the best : your passionate love of Korean dramas or your yearly family road trip to an important historical site. You want your essay to add something to your application, so if you're an All-American soccer player and want to write about the role soccer has played in your life, you'll have a higher bar to clear.

Of course if you have a more serious part of your personal history—the death of a parent, serious illness, or challenging upbringing—you can write about that. But make sure you feel comfortable sharing details of the experience with the admissions committee and that you can separate yourself from it enough to take constructive criticism on your essay.

Think About How You See Yourself

The last brainstorming method is to consider whether there are particular personality traits you want to highlight . This approach can feel rather silly, but it can also be very effective.

If you were trying to sell yourself to an employer, or maybe even a potential date, how would you do it? Try to think about specific qualities that make you stand out. What are some situations in which you exhibited this trait?

Example: Eva's Ideas

Looking at the Common App prompts, Eva wasn't immediately drawn to any of them, but after a bit of consideration she thought it might be nice to write about her love of literature for the first one, which asks about something "so meaningful your application would be incomplete without it." Alternatively, she liked the specificity of the failure prompt and thought she might write about a bad job interview she had had.

In terms of important events, Eva's parents got divorced when she was three and she's been going back and forth between their houses for as long as she can remember, so that's a big part of her personal story. She's also played piano for all four years of high school, although she's not particularly good.

As for personal traits, Eva is really proud of her curiosity—if she doesn't know something, she immediately looks it up, and often ends up discovering new topics she's interested in. It's a trait that's definitely come in handy as a reporter for her school paper.

Step 3: Narrow Down Your List

Now you have a list of potential topics, but probably no idea where to start. The next step is to go through your ideas and determine which one will make for the strongest essay . You'll then begin thinking about how best to approach it.

What to Look for in a College Essay Topic

There's no single answer to the question of what makes a great college essay topic, but there are some key factors you should keep in mind. The best essays are focused, detailed, revealing and insightful, and finding the right topic is vital to writing a killer essay with all of those qualities.

As you go through your ideas, be discriminating—really think about how each topic could work as an essay. But don't be too hard on yourself ; even if an idea may not work exactly the way you first thought, there may be another way to approach it. Pay attention to what you're really excited about and look for ways to make those ideas work.

Consideration 1: Does It Matter to You?

If you don't care about your topic, it will be hard to convince your readers to care about it either. You can't write a revealing essay about yourself unless you write about a topic that is truly important to you.

But don't confuse important to you with important to the world: a college essay is not a persuasive argument. The point is to give the reader a sense of who you are , not to make a political or intellectual point. The essay needs to be personal.

Similarly, a lot of students feel like they have to write about a major life event or their most impressive achievement. But the purpose of a personal statement isn't to serve as a resume or a brag sheet—there are plenty of other places in the application for you to list that information. Many of the best essays are about something small because your approach to a common experience generally reveals a lot about your perspective on the world.

Mostly, your topic needs to have had a genuine effect on your outlook , whether it taught you something about yourself or significantly shifted your view on something else.

Consideration 2: Does It Tell the Reader Something Different About You?

Your essay should add something to your application that isn't obvious elsewhere. Again, there are sections for all of your extracurriculars and awards; the point of the essay is to reveal something more personal that isn't clear just from numbers and lists.

You also want to make sure that if you're sending more than one essay to a school—like a Common App personal statement and a school-specific supplement—the two essays take on different topics.

Consideration 3: Is It Specific?

Your essay should ultimately have a very narrow focus. 650 words may seem like a lot, but you can fill it up very quickly. This means you either need to have a very specific topic from the beginning or find a specific aspect of a broader topic to focus on.

If you try to take on a very broad topic, you'll end up with a bunch of general statements and boring lists of your accomplishments. Instead, you want to find a short anecdote or single idea to explore in depth .

Consideration 4: Can You Discuss It in Detail?

A vague essay is a boring essay— specific details are what imbue your essay with your personality . For example, if I tell my friend that I had a great dessert yesterday, she probably won't be that interested. But if I explain that I ate an amazing piece of peach raspberry pie with flaky, buttery crust and filling that was both sweet and tart, she will probably demand to know where I obtained it (at least she will if she appreciates the joys of pie). She'll also learn more about me: I love pie and I analyze desserts with great seriousness.

Given the importance of details, writing about something that happened a long time ago or that you don't remember well isn't usually a wise choice . If you can't describe something in depth, it will be challenging to write a compelling essay about it.

You also shouldn't pick a topic you aren't actually comfortable talking about . Some students are excited to write essays about very personal topics, like their mother's bipolar disorder or their family's financial struggles, but others dislike sharing details about these kinds of experiences. If you're a member of the latter group, that's totally okay, just don't write about one of these sensitive topics.

Still, don't worry that every single detail has to be perfectly correct. Definitely don't make anything up, but if you remember a wall as green and it was really blue, your readers won't notice or care.

Consideration 5: Can It Be Related to the Prompt?

As long as you're talking about yourself, there are very few ideas that you can't tie back to one of the Common App or Coalition App prompts. But if you're applying to a school with its own more specific prompt, or working on supplemental essays, making sure to address the question will be a greater concern.

Deciding on a Topic

Once you've gone through the questions above, you should have a good sense of what you want to write about. Hopefully, it's also gotten you started thinking about how you can best approach that topic, but we'll cover how to plan your essay more fully in the next step.

If after going through the narrowing process, you've eliminated all your topics, first look back over them: are you being too hard on yourself? Are there any that you really like, but just aren't totally sure what angle to take on? If so, try looking at the next section and seeing if you can't find a different way to approach it.

If you just don't have an idea you're happy with, that's okay! Give yourself a week to think about it. Sometimes you'll end up having a genius idea in the car on the way to school or while studying for your U.S. history test. Otherwise, try the brainstorming process again when you've had a break.

If, on the other hand, you have more than one idea you really like, consider whether any of them can be used for other essays you need to write.

Example: Picking Eva's Topic

• Love of books
• Failed job interview
• Parents' divorce

Eva immediately rules out writing about playing piano, because it sounds super boring to her, and it's not something she is particularly passionate about. She also decides not to write about splitting time between her parents because she just isn't comfortable sharing her feelings about it with an admissions committee.

She feels more positive about the other three, so she decides to think about them for a couple of days. She ends up ruling out the job interview because she just can't come up with that many details she could include.

She's excited about both of her last two ideas, but sees issues with both of them: the books idea is very broad and the reporting idea doesn't seem to apply to any of the prompts. Then she realizes that she can address the solving a problem prompt by talking about a time she was trying to research a story about the closing of a local movie theater, so she decides to go with that topic.

Step 4: Figure Out Your Approach

You've decided on a topic, but now you need to turn that topic into an essay. To do so, you need to determine what specifically you're focusing on and how you'll structure your essay.

If you're struggling or uncertain, try taking a look at some examples of successful college essays . It can be helpful to dissect how other personal statements are structured to get ideas for your own , but don't fall into the trap of trying to copy someone else's approach. Your essay is your story—never forget that.

Let's go through the key steps that will help you turn a great topic into a great essay.

Choose a Focal Point

As I touched on above, the narrower your focus, the easier it will be to write a unique, engaging personal statement. The simplest way to restrict the scope of your essay is to recount an anecdote , i.e. a short personal story that illustrates your larger point.

For example, say a student was planning to write about her Outward Bound trip in Yosemite. If she tries to tell the entire story of her trip, her essay will either be far too long or very vague. Instead, she decides to focus in on a specific incident that exemplifies what mattered to her about the experience: her failed attempt to climb Half Dome. She described the moment she decided to turn back without reaching the top in detail, while touching on other parts of the climb and trip where appropriate. This approach lets her create a dramatic arc in just 600 words, while fully answering the question posed in the prompt (Common App prompt 2).

Of course, concentrating on an anecdote isn't the only way to narrow your focus. Depending on your topic, it might make more sense to build your essay around an especially meaningful object, relationship, or idea.

Another approach our example student from above could take to the same general topic would be to write about the generosity of fellow hikers (in response to Common App prompt 4). Rather than discussing a single incident, she could tell the story of her trip through times she was supported by other hikers: them giving tips on the trails, sharing snacks, encouraging her when she was tired, etc. A structure like this one can be trickier than the more straightforward anecdote approach , but it can also make for an engaging and different essay.

When deciding what part of your topic to focus on, try to find whatever it is about the topic that is most meaningful and unique to you . Once you've figured that part out, it will guide how you structure the essay.

Decide What You Want to Show About Yourself

Remember that the point of the college essay isn't just to tell a story, it's to show something about yourself. It's vital that you have a specific point you want to make about what kind of person you are , what kind of college student you'd make, or what the experience you're describing taught you.

Since the papers you write for school are mostly analytical, you probably aren't used to writing about your own feelings. As such, it can be easy to neglect the reflection part of the personal statement in favor of just telling a story. Yet explaining what the event or idea you discuss meant to you is the most important essay —knowing how you want to tie your experiences back to your personal growth from the beginning will help you make sure to include it.

Develop a Structure

It's not enough to just know what you want to write about—you also need to have a sense of how you're going to write about it. You could have the most exciting topic of all time, but without a clear structure your essay will end up as incomprehensible gibberish that doesn't tell the reader anything meaningful about your personality.

There are a lot of different possible essay structures, but a simple and effective one is the compressed narrative, which builds on a specific anecdote (like the Half Dome example above):

Start in the middle of the action. Don't spend a lot of time at the beginning of your essay outlining background info—it doesn't tend to draw the reader in and you usually need less of it than you think you do. Instead start right where your story starts to get interesting. (I'll go into how to craft an intriguing opener in more depth below.)

Briefly explain what the situation is. Now that you've got the reader's attention, go back and explain anything they need to know about how you got into this situation. Don't feel compelled to fit everything in—only include the background details that are necessary to either understand what happened or illuminate your feelings about the situation in some way.

Finish the story. Once you've clarified exactly what's going on, explain how you resolved the conflict or concluded the experience.

Explain what you learned. The last step is to tie everything together and bring home the main point of your story: how this experience affected you.

The key to this type of structure is to create narrative tension—you want your reader to be wondering what happens next.

A second approach is the thematic structure, which is based on returning to a key idea or object again and again (like the boots example above):

Establish the focus. If you're going to structure your essay around a single theme or object, you need to begin the essay by introducing that key thing. You can do so with a relevant anecdote or a detailed description.

Touch on 3-5 times the focus was important. The body of your essay will consist of stringing together a few important moments related to the topic. Make sure to use sensory details to bring the reader into those points in time and keep her engaged in the essay. Also remember to elucidate why these moments were important to you.

Revisit the main idea. At the end, you want to tie everything together by revisiting the main idea or object and showing how your relationship to it has shaped or affected you. Ideally, you'll also hint at how this thing will be important to you going forward.

To make this structure work you need a very specific focus. Your love of travel, for example, is much too broad—you would need to hone in on a specific aspect of that interest, like how traveling has taught you to adapt to event the most unusual situations. Whatever you do, don't use this structure to create a glorified resume or brag sheet .

However you structure your essay, you want to make sure that it clearly lays out both the events or ideas you're describing and establishes the stakes (i.e. what it all means for you). Many students become so focused on telling a story or recounting details that they forget to explain what it all meant to them.

Example: Eva's Essay Plan

For her essay, Eva decides to use the compressed narrative structure to tell the story of how she tried and failed to report on the closing of a historic movie theater:

• Open with the part of her story where she finally gave up after calling the theater and city hall a dozen times.
• Explain that although she started researching the story out of journalistic curiosity, it was important to her because she'd grown up going to movies at that theater.
• Recount how defeated she felt when she couldn't get ahold of anyone, and then even more so when she saw a story about the theater's closing in the local paper.
• Describer her decision to write an op-ed instead and interview other students about what the theater meant to them.
• Finish by explaining that although she wasn't able to get the story (or stop the destruction of the theater), she learned that sometimes the emotional angle can be just as interesting as the investigative one.

Step 5: Write a First Draft

The key to writing your first draft is not to worry about whether it's any good—just get something on paper and go from there. You will have to rewrite, so trying to get everything perfect is both frustrating and futile.

Everyone has their own writing process. Maybe you feel more comfortable sitting down and writing the whole draft from beginning to end in one go. Maybe you jump around, writing a little bit here and a little there. It's okay to have sections you know won't work or to skip over things you think you'll need to include later.

Whatever your approach, there are a few tips everyone can benefit from.

Don't Aim for Perfection

I mentioned this idea above, but I can't emphasize it enough: no one writes a perfect first draft . Extensive editing and rewriting is vital to crafting an effective personal statement. Don't get too attached to any part of your draft, because you may need to change anything (or everything) about your essay later .

Also keep in mind that, at this point in the process, the goal is just to get your ideas down. Wonky phrasings and misplaced commas can easily be fixed when you edit, so don't worry about them as you write. Instead, focus on including lots of specific details and emphasizing how your topic has affected you, since these aspects are vital to a compelling essay.

Write an Engaging Introduction

One part of the essay you do want to pay special attention to is the introduction. Your intro is your essay's first impression: you only get one. It's much harder to regain your reader's attention once you've lost it, so you want to draw the reader in with an immediately engaging hook that sets up a compelling story .

There are two possible approaches I would recommend.

The "In Media Res" Opening

You'll probably recognize this term if you studied The Odyssey: it basically means that the story starts in the middle of the action, rather than at the beginning. A good intro of this type makes the reader wonder both how you got to the point you're starting at and where you'll go from there . These openers provide a solid, intriguing beginning for narrative essays (though they can certainly for thematic structures as well).

But how do you craft one? Try to determine the most interesting point in your story and start there. If you're not sure where that is, try writing out the entire story and then crossing out each sentence in order until you get to one that immediately grabs your attention.

Here's an example from a real student's college essay:

"I strode in front of 400 frenzied eighth graders with my arm slung over my Fender Stratocaster guitar—it actually belonged to my mother—and launched into the first few chords of Nirvana's 'Lithium.'"

Anonymous , University of Virginia

This intro throws the reader right into the middle of the action. The author jumps right into the action: the performance. You can imagine how much less exciting it would be if the essay opened with an explanation of what the event was and why the author was performing.

The Specific Generalization

Sounds like an oxymoron, right? This type of intro sets up what the essay is going to talk about in a slightly unexpected way . These are a bit trickier than the "in media res" variety, but they can work really well for the right essay—generally one with a thematic structure.

The key to this type of intro is detail . Contrary to what you may have learned in elementary school, sweeping statements don't make very strong hooks. If you want to start your essay with a more overall description of what you'll be discussing, you still need to make it specific and unique enough to stand out.

Once again, let's look at some examples from real students' essays:

Neha, Johns Hopkins University

Brontë, Johns Hopkins University

Both of these intros set up the general topic of the essay (the first writer's bookshelf and and the second's love of Jane Eyre ) in an intriguing way. The first intro works because it mixes specific descriptions ("pushed against the left wall in my room") with more general commentary ("a curious piece of furniture"). The second draws the reader in by adopting a conversational and irreverent tone with asides like "if you ask me" and "This may or may not be a coincidence."

Don't Worry Too Much About the Length

When you start writing, don't worry about your essay's length. Instead, focus on trying to include all of the details you can think of about your topic , which will make it easier to decide what you really need to include when you edit.

However, if your first draft is more than twice the word limit and you don't have a clear idea of what needs to be cut out, you may need to reconsider your focus—your topic is likely too broad. You may also need to reconsider your topic or approach if you find yourself struggling to fill space, since this usually indicates a topic that lacks a specific focus.

Eva's First Paragraph

I dialed the phone number for the fourth time that week. "Hello? This is Eva Smith, and I'm a reporter with Tiny Town High's newspaper The Falcon. I was hoping to ask you some questions about—" I heard the distinctive click of the person on the other end of the line hanging up, followed by dial tone. I was about ready to give up: I'd been trying to get the skinny on whether the Atlas Theater was actually closing to make way for a big AMC multiplex or if it was just a rumor for weeks, but no one would return my calls.

Step 6: Edit Aggressively

No one writes a perfect first draft. No matter how much you might want to be done after writing a first draft—you must take the time to edit. Thinking critically about your essay and rewriting as needed is a vital part of writing a great college essay.

Before you start editing, put your essay aside for a week or so . It will be easier to approach it objectively if you haven't seen it in a while. Then, take an initial pass to identify any big picture issues with your essay. Once you've fixed those, ask for feedback from other readers—they'll often notice gaps in logic that don't appear to you, because you're automatically filling in your intimate knowledge of the situation. Finally, take another, more detailed look at your essay to fine tune the language.

I've explained each of these steps in more depth below.

First Editing Pass

You should start the editing process by looking for any structural or thematic issues with your essay . If you see sentences that don't make sense or glaring typos of course fix them, but at this point, you're really focused on the major issues since those require the most extensive rewrites. You don't want to get your sentences beautifully structured only to realize you need to remove the entire paragraph.

This phase is really about honing your structure and your voice . As you read through your essay, think about whether it effectively draws the reader along, engages him with specific details, and shows why the topic matters to you. Try asking yourself the following questions:

• Does the intro make you want to read more?
• Is the progression of events and/or ideas clear?
• Does the essay show something specific about you? What is it and can you clearly identify it in the essay?
• Are there places where you could replace vague statements with more specific ones?
• Do you have too many irrelevant or uninteresting details clogging up the narrative?
• Is it too long? What can you cut out or condense without losing any important ideas or details?

Give yourself credit for what you've done well, but don't hesitate to change things that aren't working. It can be tempting to hang on to what you've already written —you took the time and thought to craft it in the first place, so it can be hard to let it go. Taking this approach is doing yourself a disservice, however. No matter how much work you put into a paragraph or much you like a phrase, if they aren't adding to your essay, they need to be cut or altered.

If there's a really big structural problem, or the topic is just not working, you may have to chuck this draft out and start from scratch . Don't panic! I know starting over is frustrating, but it's often the best way to fix major issues.

Consulting Other Readers

Once you've fixed the problems you found on the first pass and have a second (or third) draft you're basically happy with, ask some other people to read it. Check with people whose judgment you trust : parents, teachers, and friends can all be great resources, but how helpful someone will be depends on the individual and how willing you are to take criticism from her.

Also, keep in mind that many people, even teachers, may not be familiar with what colleges look for in an essay. Your mom, for example, may have never written a personal statement, and even if she did, it was most likely decades ago. Give your readers a sense of what you'd like them to read for , or print out the questions I listed above and include them at the end of your essay.

Second Pass

After incorporating any helpful feedback you got from others, you should now have a nearly complete draft with a clear arc.

At this point you want to look for issues with word choice and sentence structure:

• Are there parts that seem stilted or overly formal?
• Do you have any vague or boring descriptors that could be replaced with something more interesting and specific?
• Are there any obvious redundancies or repetitiveness?
• Have you misused any words?
• Are your sentences of varied length and structure?

A good way to check for weirdness in language is to read the essay out loud. If something sounds weird when you say it, it will almost certainly seem off when someone else reads it.

Example: Editing Eva's First Paragraph

In general, Eva feels like her first paragraph isn't as engaging as it could be and doesn't introduce the main point of the essay that well: although it sets up the narrative, it doesn't show off her personality that well. She decides to break it down sentence by sentence:

I dialed the phone number for the fourth time that week.

Problem: For a hook, this sentence is a little too expository. It doesn't add any real excitement or important information (other than that this call isn't the first, which can be incorporate elsewhere.

Solution: Cut this sentence and start with the line of dialogue.

"Hello? This is Eva Smith, and I'm a reporter with Tiny Town High's newspaper The Falcon. I was hoping to ask you some questions about—"

Problem: No major issues with this sentence. It's engaging and sets the scene effectively.

Solution: None needed, but Eva does tweak it slightly to include the fact that this call wasn't her first.

I heard the distinctive click of the person on the other end of the line hanging up, followed by dial tone.

Problem: This is a long-winded way of making a point that's not that important.

Solution: Replace it with a shorter, more evocative description: " Click. Bzzzzzzz. Whoever was on the other end of the line had hung up."

I was about ready to give up: I'd been trying to get the skinny on whether the Atlas Theater was actually closing to make way for a big AMC multiplex or if it was just a rumor for weeks, but no one would return my calls.

Problem: This sentence is kind of long. Some of the phrases ("about ready to give up," "get the skinny") are cliché.

Solution: Eva decides to try to stick more closely to her own perspective: "I'd heard rumors that Atlas Theater was going to be replaced with an AMC multiplex, and I was worried." She also puts a paragraph break before this sentence to emphasize that she's now moving on to the background info rather than describing her call.

Step 7: Double Check Everything

Once you have a final draft, give yourself another week and then go through your essay again. Read it carefully to make sure nothing seems off and there are no obvious typos or errors. Confirm that you are at or under the word limit.

Then, go over the essay again, line by line , checking every word to make sure that it's correct. Double check common errors that spell check may not catch, like mixing up affect and effect or misplacing commas.

Finally, have two other readers check it as well . Oftentimes a fresh set of eyes will catch an issue you've glossed over simply because you've been looking at the essay for so long. Give your readers instructions to only look for typos and errors, since you don't want to be making any major content changes at this point in the process.

This level of thoroughness may seem like overkill, but it's worth taking the time to ensure that you don't have any errors. The last thing you want is for an admissions officer to be put off by a typo or error.

Example: Eva's Final Draft (Paragraphs 1 and 2)

"Hello? This is Eva Smith again. I'm a reporter with Tiny Town High's newspaper The Falcon , and I was hoping to ask you some questions about —" Click. Bzzzzzzz. Whoever was on the other end of the line had hung up.

I'd heard rumors that the historic Atlas Theater was going to be replaced with an AMC multiplex, and I was worried. I'd grown up with the Atlas: my dad taking me to see every Pixar movie on opening night and buying me Red Vines to keep me distracted during the sad parts. Unfortunately my personal history with the place didn't seem to carry much weight with anyone official, and my calls to both the theater and city hall had thus far gone unanswered.

Once you've finished the final check, you're done, and ready to submit! There's one last step, however.

Step 8: Do It All Again

Remember back in step one, when we talked about making a chart to keep track of all the different essays you need to write? Well, now you need to go back to that list and determine which essays you still need to write . Keep in mind your deadlines and don't forget that some schools may require more than one essay or ask for short paragraphs in addition to the main personal statement.

Reusing Essays

In some cases, you may be able to reuse the essay you've already written for other prompts. You can use the same essay for two prompts if:

Both of them are asking the same basic question (e.g. "how do you interact with people who are different from you?" or "what was an important experience and why?"), or

One prompt is relatively specific and the other is very general (e.g. "tell us about how your family shaped your education" and "tell us something about your background"), and

Neither asks about your interest in a specific school or program.

If you choose to reuse an essay you wrote for a different prompt, make sure that it addresses every part of question and that it fits the word limit. If you have to tweak a few things or cut out 50-odd words, it will probably still work. But if the essay would require major changes to fit the criteria, you're probably better off starting from scratch (even if you use the same basic topic).

Crafting Supplemental Essays

The key to keep in mind in when brainstorming for supplemental essays is that you want them to add something new to your application . You shouldn't write about the same topic you used for your personal statement, although it's okay to talk about something similar, as long as you adopt a clearly different angle.

For example, if you're planning to be pre-med in college and your main essay is about how volunteering at the hospital taught you not to judge people on their appearance, you might write your secondary essay on your intellectual interest in biology (which could touch on your volunteering). There's some overlap, but the two topics are clearly distinct.

And now, you're really, truly, finally done. Congrats!

What's Next?

Now that you know how to write a college essay, we have a lot more specific resources for you to excel.

Are you working on the Common App essay ? Read our breakdown of the Common App prompts and our guide to picking the best prompt for you.

Or maybe you're interested in the University of California ? Check out our complete guide to the UC personal statements .

In case you haven't finished the rest of the application process , take a look at our guides to asking for recommendations , writing about extracurriculars , and researching colleges .

Finally, if you're planning to take the SAT or ACT one last time , try out some of our famous test prep guides, like "How to Get a Perfect Score on the SAT" and "15 Key ACT Test Day Tips."

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Alex is an experienced tutor and writer. Over the past five years, she has worked with almost a hundred students and written about pop culture for a wide range of publications. She graduated with honors from University of Chicago, receiving a BA in English and Anthropology, and then went on to earn an MA at NYU in Cultural Reporting and Criticism. In high school, she was a National Merit Scholar, took 12 AP tests and scored 99 percentile scores on the SAT and ACT.

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• Knowledge Base
• College essay
• College Essay Examples | What Works and What Doesn’t

College Essay Examples | What Works and What Doesn't

Published on November 8, 2021 by Kirsten Courault . Revised on August 14, 2023.

One effective method for improving your college essay is to read example essays . Here are three sample essays, each with a bad and good version to help you improve your own essay.

Table of contents

Essay 1: sharing an identity or background through a montage, essay 2: overcoming a challenge, a sports injury narrative, essay 3: showing the influence of an important person or thing, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about college application essays.

This essay uses a montage structure to show snapshots of a student’s identity and background. The writer builds her essay around the theme of the five senses, sharing memories she associates with sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste.

In the weak rough draft, there is little connection between the individual anecdotes, and they do not robustly demonstrate the student’s qualities.

In the final version, the student uses an extended metaphor of a museum to create a strong connection among her stories, each showcasing a different part of her identity. She draws a specific personal insight from each memory and uses the stories to demonstrate her qualities and values.

How My Five Senses Record My Life

Throughout my life, I have kept a record of my life’s journey with my five senses. This collection of memories matters a great deal because I experience life every day through the lens of my identity.

“Chinese! Japanese!”

My classmate pulls one eye up and the other down.

“Look what my parents did to me!”

No matter how many times he repeats it, the other kids keep laughing. I focus my almond-shaped eyes on the ground, careful not to attract attention to my discomfort, anger, and shame. How could he say such a mean thing about me? What did I do to him? Joseph’s words would engrave themselves into my memory, making me question my appearance every time I saw my eyes in the mirror.

Soaking in overflowing bubble baths with Andrew Lloyd Webber belting from the boombox.

Listening to “Cell Block Tango” with my grandparents while eating filet mignon at a dine-in show in Ashland.

Singing “The Worst Pies in London” at a Korean karaoke club while laughing hysterically with my brother, who can do an eerily spot-on rendition of Sweeney Todd.

Taking car rides with Mom in the Toyota Sequoia as we compete to hit the high note in “Think of Me” from The Phantom of the Opera . Neither of us stands a chance!

The sweet scent of vegetables, Chinese noodles, and sushi wafts through the room as we sit around the table. My grandma presents a good-smelling mixture of international cuisine for our Thanksgiving feast. My favorite is the Chinese food that she cooks. Only the family prayer stands between me and the chance to indulge in these delicious morsels, comforting me with their familiar savory scents.

I rinse a faded plastic plate decorated by my younger sister at the Waterworks Art Center. I wear yellow rubber gloves to protect my hands at Mom’s insistence, but I can still feel the warm water that offers a bit of comfort as I finish the task at hand. The crusted casserole dish with stubborn remnants from my dad’s five-layer lasagna requires extra effort, so I fill it with Dawn and scalding water, setting it aside to soak. I actually don’t mind this daily chore.

I taste sweat on my upper lip as I fight to continue pedaling on a stationary bike. Ava’s next to me and tells me to go up a level. We’re biking buddies, dieting buddies, and Saturday morning carbo-load buddies. After the bike display hits 30 minutes, we do a five-minute cool down, drink Gatorade, and put our legs up to rest.

My five senses are always gathering new memories of my identity. I’m excited to expand my collection.

Word count: 455

College essay checklist

Topic and structure

• I’ve selected a topic that’s meaningful to me.
• My essay reveals something different from the rest of my application.
• I have a clear and well-structured narrative.
• I’ve concluded with an insight or a creative ending.

Writing style and tone

• I’ve crafted an introduction containing vivid imagery or an intriguing hook that grabs the reader’s attention.
• I’ve written my essay in a way that shows instead of tells.
• I’ve used appropriate style and tone for a college essay.
• I’ve used specific, vivid personal stories that would be hard to replicate.
• I’ve demonstrated my positive traits and values in my essay.
• My essay is focused on me, not another person or thing.
• I’ve included self-reflection and insight in my essay.
• I’ve respected the word count , remaining within 10% of the upper word limit.

Making Sense of My Identity

Welcome to The Rose Arimoto Museum. You are about to enter the “Making Sense of My Identity” collection. Allow me to guide you through select exhibits, carefully curated memories from Rose’s sensory experiences.

First, the Sight Exhibit.

“Chinese! Japanese!”

“Look what my parents did to me!”

No matter how many times he repeats it, the other kids keep laughing. I focus my almond-shaped eyes on the ground, careful not to attract attention as my lip trembles and palms sweat. Joseph couldn’t have known how his words would engrave themselves into my memory, making me question my appearance every time I saw my eyes in the mirror.

Ten years later, these same eyes now fixate on an InDesign layout sheet, searching for grammar errors while my friend Selena proofreads our feature piece on racial discrimination in our hometown. As we’re the school newspaper editors, our journalism teacher Ms. Riley allows us to stay until midnight to meet tomorrow’s deadline. She commends our work ethic, which for me is fueled by writing一my new weapon of choice.

Next, you’ll encounter the Sound Exhibit.

Still, the world is my Broadway as I find my voice on stage.

Just below, enter the Smell Exhibit.

While I help my Pau Pau prepare dinner, she divulges her recipe for cha siu bau, with its soft, pillowy white exterior hiding the fragrant filling of braised barbecue pork inside. The sweet scent of candied yams, fun see , and Spam musubi wafts through the room as we gather around our Thankgsiving feast. After our family prayer, we indulge in these delicious morsels until our bellies say stop. These savory scents of my family’s cultural heritage linger long after I’ve finished the last bite.

Next up, the Touch Exhibit.

I rinse a handmade mug that I had painstakingly molded and painted in ceramics class. I wear yellow rubber gloves to protect my hands at Mom’s insistence, but I can still feel the warm water that offers a bit of comfort as I finish the task at hand. The crusted casserole dish with stubborn remnants from my dad’s five-layer lasagna requires extra effort, so I fill it with Dawn and scalding water, setting it aside to soak. For a few fleeting moments, as I continue my nightly chore, the pressure of my weekend job, tomorrow’s calculus exam, and next week’s track meet are washed away.

Finally, we end with the Taste Exhibit.

My legs fight to keep pace with the stationary bike as the salty taste of sweat seeps into corners of my mouth. Ava challenges me to take it up a level. We always train together一even keeping each other accountable on our strict protein diet of chicken breasts, broccoli, and Muscle Milk. We occasionally splurge on Saturday mornings after interval training, relishing the decadence of everything bagels smeared with raspberry walnut cream cheese. But this is Wednesday, so I push myself. I know that once the digital display hits 30:00, we’ll allow our legs to relax into a five-minute cool down, followed by the fiery tang of Fruit Punch Gatorade to rehydrate.

Thank you for your attention. This completes our tour. I invite you to rejoin us for next fall’s College Experience collection, which will exhibit Rose’s continual search for identity and learning.

Word count: 649

• I’ve crafted an essay introduction containing vivid imagery or an intriguing hook that grabs the reader’s attention.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

This essay uses a narrative structure to recount how a student overcame a challenge, specifically a sports injury. Since this topic is often overused, the essay requires vivid description, a memorable introduction and conclusion , and interesting insight.

The weak rough draft contains an interesting narrative, insight, and vivid imagery, but it has an overly formal tone that distracts the reader from the story. The student’s use of elaborate vocabulary in every sentence makes the essay sound inauthentic and stilted.

The final essay uses a more natural, conversational tone and chooses words that are vivid and specific without being pretentious. This allows the reader to focus on the narrative and appreciate the student’s unique insight.

One fateful evening some months ago, a defensive linebacker mauled me, his 212 pounds indisputably alighting upon my ankle. Ergo, an abhorrent cracking of calcified tissue. At first light the next day, I awoke cognizant of a new paradigm—one sans football—promulgated by a stabbing sensation that would continue to haunt me every morning of this semester.

It’s been an exceedingly taxing semester not being able to engage in football, but I am nonetheless excelling in school. That twist of fate never would have come to pass if I hadn’t broken my ankle. I still limp down the halls at school, but I’m feeling less maudlin these days. My friends don’t steer clear anymore, and I have a lot more of them. My teachers, emboldened by my newfound interest in learning, continually invite me to learn more and do my best. Football is still on hold, but I feel like I’m finally playing a game that matters.

Five months ago, right after my ill-fated injury, my friends’ demeanor became icy and remote, although I couldn’t fathom why. My teachers, in contrast, beckoned me close and invited me on a new learning journey. But despite their indubitably kind advances, even they recoiled when I drew near.

A few weeks later, I started to change my attitude vis-à-vis my newfound situation and determined to put my energy toward productive ends (i.e., homework). I wasn’t enamored with school. I never had been. Nevertheless, I didn’t abhor it either. I just preferred football.

My true turn of fate came when I started studying more and participating in class. I started to enjoy history class, and I grew interested in reading more. I discovered a volume of poems written by a fellow adventurer on the road of life, and I loved it. I ravenously devoured everything in the writer’s oeuvre .

As the weeks flitted past, I found myself spending my time with a group of people who were quite different from me. They participated in theater and played instruments in marching band. They raised their hands in class when the teacher posed a question. Because of their auspicious influence, I started raising my hand too. I am no longer vapid, and I now have something to say.

I am certain that your school would benefit from my miraculous academic transformation, and I entreat you to consider my application to your fine institution. Accepting me to your university would be an unequivocally righteous decision.

Word count: 408

• I’ve chosen a college essay topic that’s meaningful to me.
• I’ve respected the essay word count , remaining within 10% of the upper word limit.

As I step out of bed, the pain shoots through my foot and up my leg like it has every morning since “the game.” That night, a defensive linebacker tackled me, his 212 pounds landing decidedly on my ankle. I heard the sound before I felt it. The next morning, I awoke to a new reality—one without football—announced by a stabbing sensation that would continue to haunt me every morning of this semester.

My broken ankle broke my spirit.

My friends steered clear of me as I hobbled down the halls at school. My teachers tried to find the delicate balance between giving me space and offering me help. I was as unsure how to deal with myself as they were.

In time, I figured out how to redirect some of my frustration, anger, and pent-up energy toward my studies. I had never not liked school, but I had never really liked it either. In my mind, football practice was my real-life classroom, where I could learn all I ever needed to know.

Then there was that day in Mrs. Brady’s history class. We sang a ridiculous-sounding mnemonic song to memorize all the Chinese dynasties from Shang to Qing. I mumbled the words at first, but I got caught up in the middle of the laughter and began singing along. Starting that day, I began browsing YouTube videos about history, curious to learn more. I had started learning something new, and, to my surprise, I liked it.

With my afternoons free from burpees and scrimmages, I dared to crack open a few more of my books to see what was in them. That’s when my English poetry book, Paint Me Like I Am , caught my attention. It was full of poems written by students my age from WritersCorps. I couldn’t get enough.

I wasn’t the only one who was taken with the poems. Previously, I’d only been vaguely aware of Christina as one of the weird kids I avoided. Crammed in the margins of her high-top Chuck Taylors were scribbled lines of her own poetry and infinite doodles. Beyond her punk rock persona was a sensitive artist, puppy-lover, and environmental activist that a wide receiver like me would have never noticed before.

With Christina, I started making friends with people who once would have been invisible to me: drama geeks, teachers’ pets, band nerds. Most were college bound but not to play a sport. They were smart and talented, and they cared about people and politics and all sorts of issues that I hadn’t considered before. Strangely, they also seemed to care about me.

I still limp down the halls at school, but I don’t seem to mind as much these days. My friends don’t steer clear anymore, and I have a lot more of them. My teachers, excited by my newfound interest in learning, continually invite me to learn more and do my best. Football is still on hold, but I feel like I’m finally playing a game that matters.

My broken ankle broke my spirit. Then, it broke my ignorance.

Word count: 512

This essay uses a narrative structure to show how a pet positively influenced the student’s values and character.

In the weak draft, the student doesn’t focus on himself, instead delving into too much detail about his dog’s positive traits and his grandma’s illness. The essay’s structure is meandering, with tangents and details that don’t communicate any specific insight.

In the improved version, the student keeps the focus on himself, not his pet. He chooses the most relevant stories to demonstrate specific qualities, and the structure more clearly builds up to an insightful conclusion.

Man’s Best Friend

I desperately wanted a cat. I begged my parents for one, but once again, my sisters overruled me, so we drove up the Thompson Valley Canyon from Loveland to Estes Park to meet our newest family member. My sisters had already hatched their master plan, complete with a Finding Nemo blanket to entice the pups. The blanket was a hit with all of them, except for one—the one who walked over and sat in my lap. That was the day that Francisco became a Villanova.

Maybe I should say he was mine because I got stuck with all the chores. As expected, my dog-loving sisters were nowhere to be found! My mom was “extra” with all the doggy gear. Cisco even had to wear these silly little puppy shoes outside so that when he came back in, he wouldn’t get the carpets dirty. If it was raining, my mother insisted I dress Cisco in a ridiculous yellow raincoat, but, in my opinion, it was an unnecessary source of humiliation for poor Cisco. It didn’t take long for Cisco to decide that his outerwear could be used as toys in a game of Keep Away. As soon as I took off one of his shoes, he would run away with it, hiding under the bed where I couldn’t reach him. But, he seemed to appreciate his ensemble more when we had to walk through snowdrifts to get his job done.

When my abuela was dying from cancer, we went in the middle of the night to see her before she passed. I was sad and scared. But, my dad let me take Cisco in the car, so Cisco cuddled with me and made me feel much better. It’s like he could read my mind. Once we arrived at the hospital, the fluorescent lighting made the entire scene seem unreal, as if I was watching the scene unfold through someone else’s eyes. My grandma lay calmly on her bed, smiling at us even through her last moments of pain. I disliked seeing the tubes and machines hooked up to her. It was unnatural to see her like this一it was so unlike the way I usually saw her beautiful in her flowery dress, whistling a Billie Holiday tune and baking snickerdoodle cookies in the kitchen. The hospital didn’t usually allow dogs, but they made a special exception to respect my grandma’s last wishes that the whole family be together. Cisco remained at the foot of the bed, intently watching abuela with a silence that seemed more effective at communicating comfort and compassion than the rest of us who attempted to offer up words of comfort that just seemed hollow and insincere. It was then that I truly appreciated Cisco’s empathy for others.

As I accompanied my dad to pick up our dry cleaner’s from Ms. Chapman, a family friend asked, “How’s Cisco?” before even asking about my sisters or me. Cisco is the Villanova family mascot, a Goldendoodle better recognized by strangers throughout Loveland than the individual members of my family.

On our summer trip to Boyd Lake State Park, we stayed at the Cottonwood campground for a breathtaking view of the lake. Cisco was allowed to come, but we had to keep him on a leash at all times. After a satisfying meal of fish, our entire family walked along the beach. Cisco and I led the way while my mom and sisters shuffled behind. Cisco always stopped and refused to move, looking back to make sure the others were still following. Once satisfied that everyone was together, he would turn back around and continue prancing with his golden boy curly locks waving in the chilly wind.

On the beach, Cisco “accidentally” got let off his leash and went running maniacally around the sand, unfettered and free. His pure joy as he raced through the sand made me forget about my AP Chem exam or my student council responsibilities. He brings a smile not only to my family members but everyone around him.

Cisco won’t live forever, but without words, he has impressed upon me life lessons of responsibility, compassion, loyalty, and joy. I can’t imagine life without him.

Word count: 701

I quickly figured out that as “the chosen one,” I had been enlisted by Cisco to oversee all aspects of his “business.” I learned to put on Cisco’s doggie shoes to keep the carpet clean before taking him out一no matter the weather. Soon after, Cisco decided that his shoes could be used as toys in a game of Keep Away. As soon as I removed one of his shoes, he would run away with it, hiding under the bed where I couldn’t reach him. But, he seemed to appreciate his footwear more after I’d gear him up and we’d tread through the snow for his daily walks.

One morning, it was 7:15 a.m., and Alejandro was late again to pick me up. “Cisco, you don’t think he overslept again, do you?” Cisco barked, as if saying, “Of course he did!” A text message would never do, so I called his dad, even if it was going to get him in trouble. There was no use in both of us getting another tardy during our first-period class, especially since I was ready on time after taking Cisco for his morning outing. Alejandro was mad at me but not too much. He knew I had helped him out, even if he had to endure his dad’s lecture on punctuality.

Another early morning, I heard my sister yell, “Mom! Where are my good ballet flats? I can’t find them anywhere!” I hesitated and then confessed, “I moved them.” She shrieked at me in disbelief, but I continued, “I put them in your closet, so Cisco wouldn’t chew them up.” More disbelief. However, this time, there was silence instead of shrieking.

Last spring, Cisco and I were fast asleep when the phone rang at midnight. Abuela would not make it through the night after a long year of chemo, but she was in Pueblo, almost three hours away. Sitting next to me for that long car ride on I-25 in pitch-black darkness, Cisco knew exactly what I needed and snuggled right next to me as I petted his coat in a rhythm while tears streamed down my face. The hospital didn’t usually allow dogs, but they made a special exception to respect my grandma’s last wishes that the whole family be together. Cisco remained sitting at the foot of the hospital bed, intently watching abuela with a silence that communicated more comfort than our hollow words. Since then, whenever I sense someone is upset, I sit in silence with them or listen to their words, just like Cisco did.

The other day, one of my friends told me, “You’re a strange one, Josue. You’re not like everybody else but in a good way.” I didn’t know what he meant at first. “You know, you’re super responsible and grown-up. You look out for us instead of yourself. Nobody else does that.” I was a bit surprised because I wasn’t trying to do anything different. I was just being me. But then I realized who had taught me: a fluffy little puppy who I had wished was a cat! I didn’t choose Cisco, but he certainly chose me and, unexpectedly, became my teacher, mentor, and friend.

Word count: 617

If you want to know more about academic writing , effective communication , or parts of speech , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Academic writing

• Writing process
• Transition words
• Passive voice
• Paraphrasing

 Communication

• How to end an email
• Ms, mrs, miss
• How to start an email
• I hope this email finds you well
• Hope you are doing well

 Parts of speech

• Personal pronouns
• Conjunctions

A standout college essay has several key ingredients:

• A unique, personally meaningful topic
• A memorable introduction with vivid imagery or an intriguing hook
• Specific stories and language that show instead of telling
• Vulnerability that’s authentic but not aimed at soliciting sympathy
• Clear writing in an appropriate style and tone
• A conclusion that offers deep insight or a creative ending

There are no set rules for how to structure a college application essay , but these are two common structures that work:

• A montage structure, a series of vignettes with a common theme.
• A narrative structure, a single story that shows your personal growth or how you overcame a challenge.

Avoid the five-paragraph essay structure that you learned in high school.

Though admissions officers are interested in hearing your story, they’re also interested in how you tell it. An exceptionally written essay will differentiate you from other applicants, meaning that admissions officers will spend more time reading it.

You can use literary devices to catch your reader’s attention and enrich your storytelling; however, focus on using just a few devices well, rather than trying to use as many as possible.

Most importantly, your essay should be about you , not another person or thing. An insightful college admissions essay requires deep self-reflection, authenticity, and a balance between confidence and vulnerability.

Your essay shouldn’t be a résumé of your experiences but instead should tell a story that demonstrates your most important values and qualities.

When revising your college essay , first check for big-picture issues regarding message, flow, tone, style , and clarity. Then, focus on eliminating grammar and punctuation errors.

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How to Write the Howard University Essays 2024-2025

Howard University has two essays for all applicants: a diversity essay, and a why major essay. While both are optional, we always recommend that you take advantage of any extra opportunities to share yourself with admissions officers, especially at schools that receive thousands of applications from talented students like Howard.

Read this Howard University essay example written by a real student to inspire your own writing!

Howard University Supplemental Essay Prompts

All applicants, optional.

Prompt 1: Diversity of all kinds is important to enriching the educational experience at Howard University. Please share with us anything in your background or lived experience that has shaped your perspectives and how that would contribute to the classroom and community at Howard. (500 words)

‌ Prompt 2: Please describe the major you intend to study and how you hope to use your Howard education to support you in achieving your passions and goals. Please address your first-choice and second-choice major selections. (500 words)

Prompt 1 (Optional)

Diversity of all kinds is important to enriching the educational experience at howard university. please share with us anything in your background or lived experience that has shaped your perspectives and how that would contribute to the classroom and community at howard. (500 words).

This diversity prompt asks you to reflect on how your unique background and experiences have shaped your worldview, and how you will contribute to Howard’s already diverse academic and social community. Your goal is to demonstrate both self-awareness regarding your own identity, and an ability to engage with those who hold different perspectives.

Understanding the Prompt

While the word “diversity” usually makes people first think of things like race or sexuality, our identities encompass much more than that. Howard places a high value on diversity in all forms —cultural, racial, socioeconomic, intellectual, and experiential. Of course, you can write an excellent essay about one of the conventional markers of diversity, but you could also write about something like an unusual hobby, so long as that thing is a genuinely important part of who you are.

As you evaluate potential topics, keep in mind that this prompt is asking you to:

• Reflect on the parts of your identity or experiences that have most shaped your worldview.
• Show how your unique perspectives will enrich the learning environment and contribute to the inclusive community at Howard.
• Emphasize how you’ve engaged with diversity in the past, and how those experiences will help you fit into Howard’s diverse, vibrant student body.

Brainstorming Questions

To get started, consider these questions:

• What parts of your background (race, culture, family, socioeconomic status, religion, etc.) have influenced your view of the world?
• Have you faced or witnessed challenges related to diversity, inclusion, or equity? How did those experiences shape your perspectives?
• What communities or groups do you belong to that have had a significant impact on your identity?
• How have you engaged with people who have different life experiences from your own? What did you learn from those interactions?
• What values or lessons from your background do you want to bring with you to Howard?

What Makes a Good Response

A good response will:

• Show a unique aspect of your identity : Be specific about the parts of your background or lived experiences that have most shaped your views.
• Provide thoughtful reflection : Explain how those experiences have influenced your worldview, values, or goals.
• Show how you engage with diversity : Offer examples of how you’ve interacted with people from different backgrounds and what you’ve learned.
• Demonstrate what you’ll contribute to Howard : Explain how your perspective will add to specific classes, clubs, or broader campus initiatives at Howard.
• Highlight your eagerness to learn from others : Show an openness to engaging with new perspectives and contributing to an inclusive community.

Hypothetical Student Examples

• Nia, a Black student who attended a predominantly White school : Nia could share how growing up in a community where she was often one of the few Black students taught her resilience and the importance of representation. She might discuss how she used her position on the student council to advocate for Black History Month programming and why she’s excited to see how she grows while being surrounded by mostly Black students at Howard, especially through clubs focused on understanding your identity, like Black Women For Themselves.
• Max, a first-generation student : Max might talk about growing up in a tight-knit, Spanish-speaking household while attending an English-speaking school. He could describe how navigating both worlds gave him a strong appreciation for cultural exchange. At Howard, he looks forward to engaging in conversations about immigration reform through classes like AFRO 301: Racism, Law & Injustice, and continuing to broaden his own perspectives through study abroad programs like “Politics, Social Justice & Language” in Santiago, Chile.
• Angela, an aspiring doctor : Angela could write about the challenges her parents faced in navigating the healthcare system for her aging grandparents. This experience sparked her interest in patient-centered healthcare policy and inspired her to pursue a career in medicine. At Howard, she hopes to build a robust foundation in medical concepts, through opportunities like the Comprehensive Medical Mentoring Program, so that she can start working towards change even early in her career as a physician.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Being too vague : Don’t generalize about diversity or inclusion. Be specific about your experiences and how they have influenced your thinking–don’t fall into the buzzword trap of just saying what you think admissions officers will want to hear.
• Forgetting to reflect : Don’t just tell the story of your background. Make sure to also reflect on how those experiences have shaped you and how they’ll impact your life at Howard.
• Overusing clichés : Avoid common phrases like “we are all the same” or “diversity is important.” While those are nice sentiments, they’re ones many students are likely to touch on, and the point of the essay is to distinguish yourself from other applicants. If you’re going to incorporate them, make sure you can connect them to meaningful personal experiences.
• Missing the connection to Howard : Howard admissions officers are specifically asking you to build a bridge from your past experiences to your potential future at Howard. To do that, you need to include resources or opportunities that can only be found at Howard. Rather than just saying “I’d like to study abroad to continue expanding my perspective,” which you can do at any school, find a particular program that aligns with your personal interests, like Max did.

Excerpts From Good and Bad Examples

Good Example:

“The smell of jasmine flowers and street food—fried plantains, chapati, and marinated goat—fills the air as I walk down the dusty roads of Nairobi. My skin feels the dry heat of the Kenyan sun, but my mind is focused on the rhythm of the Swahili words spilling out of every shop and market stall. The phrase “habari gani” (how are you?) greets me more times than I can count. But I always feel like a foreigner. 

Born in Atlanta to Kenyan parents, I’ve spent much of my life balancing the richness of two worlds—one where I’m seen as “too American” and another where I’m “too African.” In America, I was the girl with the different lunch, my ugali and sukuma wiki earning confused stares from my classmates who had peanut butter sandwiches. In Kenya, my English-tinged Swahili drew skeptical glances from cousins who asked why I couldn’t speak the mother tongue fluently.

This constant duality has shaped me into someone who never sees the world in absolutes. Instead, I see the power of intersectionality, as my dual identity has allowed me to navigate vastly different social and cultural landscapes, which in turn has allowed me to bridge gaps between people from disparate backgrounds. 

At Howard, I would work to ensure students who may not immediately feel like they belong, such as international students and first-generation college students, find community. Student organizations like Howard University International Pals would allow me to both mentor others using my existing skills, and continue refining my perspective by learning from older students. 

Through my experiences straddling two worlds, I’ve learned to be adaptable, empathetic, and open-minded. By drawing on my unique experiences as a Kenyan-American, I look forward to working to ensure all students feel welcome at Howard.”

Why this works : This essay clearly outlines the student’s background and how it has shaped their perspective on inequality. The student reflects on specific experiences that have influenced their worldview and connects those experiences to what they hope to contribute to and learn from Howard, through a specific opportunity that can only be found at this institution.

Bad Example:

“Diversity has always been important to me because it allows us to learn from one another. I grew up in a diverse community where I was exposed to different cultures and perspectives. This experience taught me the importance of inclusion and accepting everyone for who they are. At Howard, I hope to meet people from all walks of life and share my perspective. I believe that my experiences will allow me to contribute to the community, and I’m excited to be part of such a diverse environment.”

Why this doesn’t work : This response is too vague and doesn’t provide specific examples of the student’s background or how their experiences have shaped their perspective. There is no depth or reflection, only generic statements about diversity that have no connection to their personal experiences.

In Conclusion

Start by reflecting on your background and lived experiences. Then, show how they’ve shaped your current perspective on the world. Finish by explaining how your past has set you up to thrive at Howard. If you do those three things, you’ll be well on your way to showing Howard admissions officers what you’d bring to campus that nobody else would.

Prompt 2 (Optional)

Please describe the major you intend to study and how you hope to use your howard education to support you in achieving your passions and goals. please address your first-choice and second-choice major selections. (500 words).

This is a classic “Why This Major” prompt , which asks you to explain your academic interests and how Howard will help you achieve your long-term goals in those fields. Note that, unlike many “Why Major?” essays, you’ll need to discuss both your first-choice and second-choice majors, but fortunately you have 500 words at your disposal, which is plenty to cover two distinct topics.

This essay asks you to:

• Discuss your first-choice and second-choice majors : Why are you drawn to these fields? What experiences or goals have led you to choose them?
• Connect your goals to a Howard education : How will Howard’s specific programs, resources, and opportunities help you grow in your chosen field and pursue your goals?
• Show that you have a clear vision of how your Howard education will support your personal and professional growth.

To get started, consider the following:

• What sparked your interest in your first-choice major? An experience, a class, a book you read?
• Ask yourself the same question about your second-choice major, and reflect on whether the field is related to your first choice, or is entirely different.
• What specific opportunities at Howard (courses, professors, research opportunities, extracurriculars) will help you develop in these areas?
• What are your long-term career goals, and how will these majors prepare you to achieve them?

A strong response to this prompt will:

• Show clear motivation for both majors : Explain why both your first-choice and second-choice majors excite you and how they align with your interests or experiences.
• Be specific and personal : Use examples from your life—such as projects, internships, or personal experiences—that clearly show how you became interested in these fields.
• Demonstrate a connection to Howard’s academic offerings : Reference specific programs, courses, professors, or opportunities that can only be found at Howard that will support your goals.
• Show long-term vision : Clearly explain how your Howard education will help you achieve your career goals or personal aspirations.
• Lila, first-choice: Biology, second-choice: Psychology : Lila became interested in biology after volunteering at a healthcare clinic in an underserved community, where she saw the need for more doctors who understand the challenges of marginalized populations. Her second-choice major, Psychology, stems from her interest in mental health advocacy and understanding the intersection of physical and mental health, especially in underserved populations. She’s drawn to Howard’s focus on health disparities and opportunities for undergraduate research in that area, through programs like the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP), as she feels this is exactly the environment that will prepare her to become a doctor herself.
• Isaac, first-choice: Computer Science, second-choice: Mathematics : Isaac’s passion for problem-solving and technology led him to his first-choice major, Computer Science. He’s been coding since middle school, when he began developing small apps to help his parents manage their business. Isaac is excited about Howard’s supportive environment for Black tech innovators, which he feels will help him continue to expand his skills, through opportunities like the Robotics Organization. He’s also interested in Mathematics as a second-choice major because of the overlap in concepts with programming and data science. He plans to use his Howard education to launch a tech startup focused on addressing economic inequality in urban areas through infrastructural initiatives.
• Being too vague : Avoid general statements like “I want to study biology because I like science.” Be specific about what aspects of the major excite you, and how Howard will help you pursue those particular interests.
• Not addressing both majors : Be sure to explain why both your first-choice and second-choice majors appeal to you, even if your first-choice is your primary focus. You can spend more space on your first choice, but make sure to leave at least 150-200 for your second choice.
• Forgetting Howard-specific details : Don’t just talk about your goals—connect them to Howard’s resources, courses, or opportunities, and make sure these things are genuinely unique to Howard. Rather than saying something like “I want to research the origins of democracy,” which you could do at any school, find a particular professor at Howard who is working in that area. Show that you’ve done your research and already have a sense for how Howard will help you succeed.

“I’ve been passionate about understanding global politics ever since I attended a Model United Nations conference in high school. The experience of debating with students from all over the world about pressing issues like climate change and international security sparked my interest in political science, and I quickly realized that I wanted to pursue a career in diplomacy. 

At Howard, I’m particularly drawn to the Political Science department’s emphasis on global perspectives, especially the courses on African politics and public policy. The opportunity to learn from professors like Dr. Ravi Perry, who focuses on political leadership and social justice, excites me, because learning from students who come from such different backgrounds has been key to my own intellectual growth, and I want to explore how political systems can be more inclusive and equitable.

I’m also interested in International Business, as understanding global economics will be essential to my future career in international relations. Howard’s international business program, with its focus on cross-cultural management and global trade, will help me develop the skills I need to navigate complex economic and political landscapes, far better than a more general business degree. I’m also eager to deepen my understanding of international diplomacy firsthand, through study abroad opportunities like the International Affairs program in Geneva, one of the most historically significant cities for international diplomacy there is.

With a Howard education, I hope to combine my passion for politics and international business to become a diplomat focused on promoting human rights and social justice on a global scale.”

Why this works : The essay shows clear, specific passion for both majors and connects those interests to Howard’s resources. The student not only explains their long-term goals, but also why Howard is the right place to achieve them.

“I want to study business because I’ve always been interested in how companies are run and how they can succeed in the modern world. Howard University is known for its strong business programs, and I’m confident that it will help me reach my career goals. In high school, I took several business courses and participated in a business club, which confirmed my interest in the field. I know that Howard will provide me with the tools and knowledge I need to succeed in the business world.

My second-choice major is psychology because I think it would be interesting to learn about how people think and behave. I’m curious about human behavior and how it influences decision-making. Howard’s psychology program will allow me to explore these interests further.

Why this doesn’t work : This essay is too vague and lacks specific details about Howard’s programs or how they connect to the student’s goals. The reasons for choosing both majors are generic, and lack personal insight or reflection.

By explaining the origins of your academic passions, and then connecting them to specific opportunities at Howard, you’ll craft a compelling essay that demonstrates how a Howard education will help you achieve your goals in your first-choice and second-choice majors.

Where to Get Your Howard Essay Edited For Free

Do you want feedback on your Howard essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

Need feedback faster? Get a free, nearly-instantaneous essay review from Sage, our AI tutor and advisor. Sage will rate your essay, give you suggestions for improvement, and summarize what admissions officers would take away from your writing. Use these tools to improve your chances of acceptance to your dream school!

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I'm a professor. I tell all my college freshmen these 6 tips so they have a successful first year.

• I've taught college as a professor for 15 years.
• To be a successful college freshman, you need to go to class and communicate with your professors.
• You also need to be comfortable with being uncomfortable so you can push yourself on campus.

I've taught or advised college students in New York and New Jersey for the last 15 years. For many of my students, it's been smooth sailing from day one. For others, the waters are a bit rockier.

There are many things I wish my students knew before embarking on their college journeys. And even though it's been three decades since I began my freshman year , there are many things I wish I had known before I started, too.

I have my own ideas about what would help incoming students have a successful first year in school, but I also spoke to several friends in academia to get their take on the issue, too.

Here are some of my best tips for freshmen in their first semester .

Do not skip class

It's amazing how many students frequently skip class . It's not enough to get the notes from someone else.

Related stories

You miss important discussions and the chance to ask questions when you ditch class. You miss the opportunity to interact with your professor and classmates.

I know a student may miss a class for many reasons, including illness. But if you're too tired from late-night jam sessions or video production clubs, you may want to rethink your extracurriculars . I struggled with this in school. I was overscheduled and juggling too many activities. It's tempting, but you can't do everything all at once. Pace yourself.

Read the class syllabus

Taking a moment to read the syllabus will help you get ahead as a student.

It's always a good idea to keep track of assignments in a paper planner with due dates labeled. Many professors don't accept late work. If you don't understand an assignment, ask for clarification in class. Don't wait until the night before the assignment is due.

Learn how to communicate with your professor, especially via email

Think carefully before emailing your professor. We're people, too. Our inboxes are full . So when you email us, please use the subject line.

Even a simple "Subject: Looking for clarification on class reading" would be helpful.

Once you've mastered the subject line , I'd ask you to look closely at your professor's name and title. Have you spelled it correctly? I can't tell you how many times students have butchered my name — first and last — on a graded assignment.

When crafting your email, please remember that it may not get read immediately. Don't expect answers to come as quickly as a friend on a text. Give us time to respond.

Spend time in the library

Despite having lots of reading to do for class, I recommend students read for fun, too. Reading is good for the soul. It's soothing, entertaining, and free. Head to your on-campus library and check out a book that interests you to further your education.

Plus, you should always ask a librarian for help. Librarians can save students time, help them get unstuck, and generally make their lives easier. Librarians are also great when it comes to research.

Don't forget to say, 'Thank you'

Thank the people who keep your school up and running. That could be a food service worker, bus driver, or cleaning staff. It might be the groundskeeper who waters the flowers by your dorm or the cashier at the campus bookstore. Or maybe you finally turned a corner in your advanced Spanish class and want to thank the TA for spending extra time with you.

Let them know you're grateful for their time. One of my writing teachers says she's kept all the letters of gratitude she's received from students. I do this, too. I know how it feels when a student takes the time to craft a thank you note , especially a handwritten one.

Get comfortable with being uncomfortable

It's a privilege to attend college ; you don't have to be here. Many people would gladly trade places with you. So take advantage of the amazing opportunities presented to you — even if they make you uncomfortable (within reason).

For example, sign up for classes and clubs that might challenge you. Plus, if you're used to hanging in the back row, find a seat up front and learn to raise your hand. We don't bite.

College is a time to experiment in all aspects of life; don't waste it by staying in your comfort zone.

Watch: What new Citadel military college "knobs" go through on day one at the controversial school

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NEW! Find where to watch all of your favorite sports!

GameDay Kickoff: Stacked QB rooms, big conference matchups and more ahead of Week 4

Stephen A. Smith refutes Paul Finebaum's claim that Arch Manning could lead Texas to a national championship. (2:20)

Week 4 is here as we dive into another weekend of college football madness.

The biggest story going into Saturday's slate of games is if Arch Manning will get his first college start. After capturing the attention of fans, he'll have a lot to live up to in the spotlight as Texas faces UL Monroe.

USC will be making an appearance at the Big House for the first time in over 60 years as its visit will kick off conference play for the Trojans. Elsewhere in the Big Ten, No. 24 Illinois visits No. 22 Nebraska where one Illinois receiver lives out a different version of a dream he once had.

Before all of this plays out, Appalachian State gets things started as it hosts South Alabama on Thursday.

Our college football experts give insight on players, sound and storylines going into Week 4.

Jump to a section: Texas QB depth | Illinois' Pat Bryant | Must needs to win New conference enemy | Quotes of the week

Stacked QB rooms are nothing new at Texas

Todd Dodge has a unique vantage point to the hysteria around Arch Manning , who made a national splash in his first extensive playing time at Texas after starter and Heisman Trophy candidate Quinn Ewers sustained an oblique injury.

Dodge, a quarterback guru and legendary Texas high school coach with seven state championships -- including three-peats at two different schools -- lived in the burnt orange spotlight himself. As the first Texas high school quarterback to throw for more than 3,000 yards in a season in 1980, he was a star recruit for the Longhorns who started as a celebrity backup himself.

"The most popular guy in any college town is the No. 2 quarterback," said Dodge, now the coach at Lovejoy High School in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. "I've been the No. 2 where I couldn't buy my own dinner and everybody wanted to let me know how much they thought I ought to be playing. And I've been the No. 1 who's played well, who was probably over-fawned-over and then I've been the No. 1 when the team lost and I didn't play well and I'm the biggest bum in three counties."

He said fans often assume a quarterback room is filled with jealousy or back-biting, but in his career, he has found it to be the opposite, which Steve Sarkisian reiterated Monday when he said nothing changes if Manning starts. The bond between Ewers and his backup is evident, Dodge said. And he is familiar with both players and their families, namely Ewers, because his son Riley, was Ewers' head coach at Southlake Carroll.

"They're very, very talented young men that both could be playing almost anywhere in the country, but the No. 2's family [the Mannings] put tremendous value in development and patience," he said. "To me, that takes a little bit of the angst off of me as the starter knowing that I don't have a backup who's out there just every waning minute trying to convince people that he ought to be the guy."

Greg Davis, too, experienced the attention in his time in Austin. In 1998, Major Applewhite went 8-2 as the starter, was selected Big 12 Freshman of the Year, then Texas landed the No. 1 prospect in the country, Chris Simms, the well-pedigreed son of New York Giants legend Phil Simms. For the next three years, Simms and Applewhite both had their high points, and both served as co-starters. How do you manage that situation?

"Obviously you don't live in a vacuum," according to Davis, offensive coordinator under Mack Brown. "You're aware of what they say in the grocery store." Davis has ties to the Mannings himself. He recruited Eli alongside Simms, recruited Peyton at Arkansas and offered Arch's dad, Cooper, when he was coaching at Tulane .

Davis said the pressure inside the building doesn't come from attention or fans in the grocery store. It comes from picking the player who had the best chance to win. For Dodge, there's no question, especially after seeing Ewers beat Oklahoma , then Alabama and Michigan in huge road victories.

"Gosh, all of us Texas fans are fired up about what Arch did the other day," Dodge said. "But in the big picture, there's a reason why Quinn Ewers is the starter. When you start having to face Georgia and people like that, well, it doesn't mean that Arch Manning can't have a bang-up game against a Georgia or an Alabama. It's just that Quinn Ewers has already done it." -- Dave Wilson

Illinois' Bryant dreams big after being molded through tragedy

Tattoos are filling up Pat Bryant's body, memorializing those whose lives once ran parallel to his but diverged and ended far too soon.

Bryant, the star senior wide receiver for No. 24 Illinois , now has four tattoos honoring his friends from Jacksonville, Florida, who have died in recent years. One of the most painful came only two days after Bryant and the Illini played in the ReliaQuest Bowl in Tampa, when Bryant's best friend, Alim Denson, nicknamed "Twin," died while in prison.

"A lot of those guys, I grew up playing sports with, we all had the same dream," Bryant said. "Being able to reach my dream, knowing they're looking down on me, they're very, very proud. Also, for the kids of the community, I want to show them that there's more to life than gun violence, drugs. I just want to be a great role model for my community."

Bryant, who leads Illinois with 235 receiving yards and four touchdowns this season, has contributed to a new community, far from home. He was named a team captain last month, as he prepared for his third season as a starter.

The 6-foot-3 Bryant received 33 scholarship offers in high school, including all the in-state schools, except the one he truly wanted, Florida , where both of his parents attended. Bryant committed to Illinois in June 2020, essentially sight unseen, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

But in mid-December, just before the end of a delayed and shortened season, Illinois fired coach Lovie Smith. The first high school signing day was just three days away. Wide receivers coach Andrew Hayes-Stoker called Bryant and encouraged him to sign anyway, which he did. Three days later, Illinois hired Bret Bielema to replace Smith.

When Bryant finally visited Champaign, there was some confusion.

"I flew in, thinking the University of Illinois was in Chicago," Bryant said. "I get off the plane, we get in an Uber, they're taking us to the dorm, and I'm just waiting to see the big skyline. And I see corn field after corn field. I was like, 'There's no way,' but I adapted to where I was. Great college town."

Bryant has built a strong connection to Champaign. Earlier this month, he and two teammates pooled their NIL earnings to donate backpacks and school supplies to local children. Bryant's desire to give back stems in part from his father, Patrick, the athletic director of the Police Athletic League of Jacksonville, which places officers to help with youth sports programs around the city. Pat Jr. played basketball and flag football in the league.

"He's been nothing but a class example of everything we believe in here," Bielema said.

After seven touchdown catches in 2023, Bryant is on pace for a breakout season, which continues Friday night at No. 22 Nebraska . Bielema has received good reviews from NFL scouts on Bryant, who also excels with run blocking. Bryant's path reminds Bielema of the Atlanta Falcons' Casey Washington .

At a morning meeting after Illinois' second win, Bielema recognized Bryant as the team's top overall performer.

"He lives a routine every day that gives him an advantage," Bielema said. "We talked about how he's in the building by 5:15 a.m., he doesn't have to be checked in by 6:30. It's just an awesome thing to witness. He knows where he's at, he knows how to take care of himself. Unfortunately, he's had some tragedy in his life and it helps motivate him for the future."

Bryant plays for Denson and the other friends he has lost, but he's also focused on his current teammates.

"I feel like I have a powerful voice, I can relate to everyone on the team," he said. "I feel people respect me, not only because of my game but because of the kind of person I am." -- Adam Rittenberg

What teams need to capitalize on to win

Utah: Any sort of analysis about this game for the Utes has to begin with the status of quarterback Cam Rising . There hasn't been an official update about whether he will play, but it's hard not to interpret the fact that he spoke to reporters this week about the game as an indicator he will be available -- unless it's an elaborate form of gamesmanship, which cannot be ruled out. After falling behind 14-3 to Utah State last week, the Utes were able to come back and win comfortably, but it's important the Utes don't follow that script again. Independent of whether Rising plays, the Utes are at their best when the running game does the heavy lifting, and it does not suit their strengths to go into catch-up mode. This is especially true against an explosive offense like Oklahoma State. The best-case scenario here for the Utes is if Rising plays, they establish Micah Bernard early and neutralize Ollie Gordon II to a reasonable degree. -- Kyle Bonagura

Oklahoma State: With back-to-back games against Utah and Kansas State to begin the 2024 Big 12 slate, Oklahoma State is about to enter a season-defining stretch. What better way for the Cowboys to make a statement in the Big 12 title hunt than by figuring out the running game and unleashing reigning Doak Walker Award winner Gordon in Week 4?

Coach Mike Gundy says he's "not concerned" about Oklahoma State's start on the ground this seasos. But through Week 3, the Cowboys rank 105th in rushing among FBS offenses and Gordon is averaging 3.5 yards per carry, down from 6.1 in 2023 when Gordon finished seventh in Heisman Trophy voting. Oklahoma State leaned on its passing game to storm past Tulsa last Saturday when Gordon carried 17 times for just 41 yards. Relying so heavily on quarterback Alan Bowman won't be as easy this weekend against Utah's 26th-ranked pass defense. The Cowboys' broader College Football Playoff aspirations probably hinge on finding a way to get Gordon and the run game going. Saturday against Utah is a good place for them to start. -- Eli Lederman

Get to know your new conference enemy

With so much anticipation heading into this season about the new West Coast additions of the Big Ten playing matchups like this one, it's hard to believe how much USC and Michigan have already switched roles.

The defending national champion has not looked the part after losing its head coach in Jim Harbaugh, but also plenty of talent on the field such as quarterback J.J. McCarthy and running back Blake Corum , among several others. After losing 31-12 to Texas at home and struggling on offense last week against Arkansas State , this isn't exactly looking like the encore Wolverines fans envisioned.

Now, USC comes to town for its first marquee Big Ten game, looking far removed from the bitter end it had to the Caleb Williams era last year. After firing defensive coordinator Alex Grinch, Lincoln Riley revamped the defensive staff with former UCLA coordinator D'Anton Lynn, and after a statement win over LSU in the opener and a shutout of Utah State at home, the Trojans are coming off a bye week and look to be on the way up.

Despite any momentum USC might have, the concept of playing -- and winning -- a road game in the Big House looms large on any opponent, especially one that hasn't been there since 1958. Though USC players keep harping on their improved physicality in the trenches being the deciding factor in this game, Riley has remained adamant over the past week that despite its struggles, Michigan is a really good team with NFL-caliber players. You can see how much he is trying to will his team to not view itself as the favorites, even if the odds say so.

"Everybody wants to write the story after a couple of games in the season for everyone," Riley said this week. "And it's a long season, man. That's a good football team that we have a lot of respect for. To have anything less would be a mistake on our part." -- Paolo Uggetti

Quotes of the week