I have written draft after draft of different common app essays for the 16’-17’ prompts, but I seem to absolutely hate every single one of them. My biggest problem is that I have no idea where to start. I haven’t taken these big stances against anything nor have I had any life changing moment that I can really pinpoint. I have not had any major failures that I have had to overcome, nor do I feel that my background is interesting enough to share. Where do I even start?
Don’t try to write about something insignificant as if it is world-changing; that would just show a lack of self-awareness. See the general guidance on the linked article.
My suggestion is to put your essays aside and simply read through your entire Common Application. Look at every preview page and read it all in its entirety. When you are done, ask yourself… what is missing? What do colleges need to know about you in order to make your application complete? You can write an essay that simply defines you or details what makes you unique as an applicant. If you do so honestly, colleges cannot really ask for more from you.
Good luck…