<p>Any topic can work. Some topics just make it easier to slip into cliche, and "international volunteering" is one of them. Whatever topic you end up choosing, however, make sure it works for YOU. The point of writing a college essay/choosing a specific experience as an essay topic is to convey something about YOU (contrary to popular belief, it's not about the topic. The topic is only a tool). If you can eloquently convey your values (like the student above) using an essay topic like Ultimate Frisbee or an African boy, then by all means do it.</p>