<p>Title says it all. I've begun brainstorming ideas for my essay to use with the commonapp in the fall, but I'm having a little difficulty. I want to come up with a good topic/recount an interesting experience I've had, but everything that comes to mind seems cliche and/or mediocre. Anyone have any tip, stories of how they came up with theirs, or other guidance?</p>
<p>i’m in the same place as you… tried to come up with something today, but got nowhere 
i’ve heard it’s helpful to brainstorm by trying to “complete sentences.” ie, _______ is important to me because <strong><em>, or doing </em></strong>_ changed me because _________ and then going from there. this didn’t work for me though haha, so idk if it will help you. hopefully something will eventually come to us!</p>
<p>sit down for a while while answering these questions
What has been the hardest thing in my life?
What has been difficult for me to accomplish?
At what points have I felt inadequate and how did I deal with those feelings?
If I had to quickly replay my life, which two or three moments would jump out ahead of all others?
What in the world utterly fascinates me?
What do I regard as my greatest victory?
What fills me with pride?
questions like those</p>