Once you have broken down and understand the prompt, it’s time to pick a topic. Pay attention to those first few ideas you jot down. Don’t think they’re “stupid” or not “big enough.” You’re 17, you likely haven’t thought about why you do the things you do in your life or why you like them. You just do. The college application prompts may be forcing you, for the first time, to actually think your activities, hobbies, behavior, and values, and why you do or possess them.
I’ve had students write about the couch in their living room, going to Target, killing a mouse for scientific research, gardening, and studying in the gazebo at the park. At first blush, such topics may not seem meaty or impressive enough, but take time to explore before you dismiss an idea.
Brainstorm about your topic relative to the prompt. Try to write for at least 10 minutes on each point of the prompt. Employ the five W’s to help you flesh out your details: Who, What, When, Where, How and Why. You can also use the six senses, as appropriate: Touch, Smell, Sight, Taste, and Hearing. You’ll be surprised by what you discover!
So never underestimate the power of a “small” story. My students’ instinctual topic ideas have always resulted in rich, personal stories—stories that the folks in admissions remember.
I’ve had students write about the couch in their living room, going to Target, killing a mouse for scientific research, gardening, and studying in the gazebo at the park. At first blush, such topics may not seem meaty or impressive enough, but take time to explore before you dismiss an idea.
Brainstorm about your topic relative to the prompt. Try to write for at least 10 minutes on each point of the prompt. Employ the five W’s to help you flesh out your details: Who, What, When, Where, How and Why. You can also use the six senses, as appropriate: Touch, Smell, Sight, Taste, and Hearing. You’ll be surprised by what you discover!
So never underestimate the power of a “small” story. My students’ instinctual topic ideas have always resulted in rich, personal stories—stories that the folks in admissions remember.
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