By Mikayla Henault

Your college essay is one of the only ways admission counselors can get to know who you are as a person. It’s your time to shine. But it’s ok if you don’t know what to write about, you’re not alone. I was once in the same shoes struggling like you. Here are three tips that helped me find my perfect college essay topic, and can help you too.

1. Look at the Common App essay prompts

Many of the schools you are applying to will use the Common Application. The great thing about the Common App is that you can use the same essay for all of the schools you apply to. But even if the schools you’re applying to don’t use the common app, it’s still a great tool to use to help you come up with essay ideas. Some colleges not on the common app might even use the same essay prompts.

The Common App releases a set of prompts for the essay section every year. Take a look at these prompts, and use them to brainstorm potential topics. One of them will probably stand out to you right away. Create a list of possible answers for each prompt and then go back through and pick your favorites. Which topics give you an opportunity to reflect and talk about yourself in the 650 word limit?

2. Pick something that is important to you

Your best writing is about your best self. What are your hobbies and interests? What are you passionate about? Having your passion come through in your essay is essential to impressing admission counselors. Writing about something that is important to you will also help to make sure your essay is unique. It’s okay if you choose a topic that someone else might, like a sport you play, as long as you add your own perspective. It’s all about putting a personal spin on your essay. Admission counselors want to know how the topic relates to you.

3. Choose a topic that is not already addressed in your application or resume

You don’t have much space to sell yourself to schools, so you need to make the most out of every opportunity. Try not to repeat the same topic throughout your application. You probably already listed your awards and test scores in your application, so choose something different for your essay topic. Get creative and think outside of your resume. Find a topic that lets you sell yourself best.

It’s okay to talk about an extra-curricular activity that may already be listed on your resume if it is something you are passionate about, but try to talk beyond the activity. Tell a story that involves the activity, or talk about how the activity shaped you. Another helpful trick is to talk about something from your childhood. Most of your application talks about your time in high school, so picking a topic that relates back to your childhood helps to keep it unique and interesting.