Which Essay Topic is Better for the Common App?

College Essays
1

<p>I recently wrote the rough draft of two possible essays for the Common App. I'm asking you guys which one sounds more interesting or will help me stand out more?</p>

<p>The first one is in response to #1. It's about my service trip to Costa Rica and how by living in a much poorer and more primitive environment, I became more appreciative of the things we have at home.</p>

<p>The second one is in response to #5. It's about my unique handwriting. All my classmates for the past 4 years have basically commented on how it is extremely neat and when I write, it almost looks like I'm typing. I wrote about how my handwriting reflects my organizational skills and also reflects my efficiency as a student.</p>

<p>Which one sounds better?</p>

2

<p>Well, 2 is more interesting. Number 1 has potential, too, but is a little more cliche. </p>

<p>I think both sound excellent, but my preference is 2.</p>

3

<p>2 sounds more interesting. 1 is a bit over-used.</p>

4

<p>I agree with everyone above. While the topic for Essay 1 is describing your service to humanity, too many people have done this and it will not stand out amongst the thousands of essays admissions officers will be reading. However, reading an essay on unique handwriting is not something they will come upon very often; it will be easier for them to remember such an essay.</p>

5

<p>I bet my handwriting is better than yours. :wink:
But 2 certainly captured my attention.</p>

6

<p>Two sounds much more engaging right off the bat, but know that colleges are looking not only for effecient students but for interesting, motivated, engaging people. Make sure that your personality, not just your alphabetizing (or whatever) skills are presented as well.</p>

7

<p>Community service trips to foreign countries are nearly at the top of every “Cliche Essay Topics To Avoid” list that I have read. The second one sounds genuinely interesting, if you do it right. (Remember to tell stories, rather than saying “my handwriting is spidery, which represents my quick thinking,” and to make it ultimately about you.)</p>

8

<p>Thanks guys! Unconfidential, I’ll take you on. I’m a guy by the way. :stuck_out_tongue: Which gives me even more kudos for neat handwriting. Haha.</p>

9

<p>Do NOT use the first one. It is so cliched, and one of my books specifically advised us not to use that kind of approach. The second one is much better.</p>

10

<p>****. I lost then. :slight_smile:
Just an idea, maybe you can handwrite your essay - in your very neat handwriting ?</p>

11

<p>I know its off your post kubiler72 but since it concerns what you guys are talking about…
What if you yourself live in a poor country and talk about how it has effected you and the change you want to bring about in it and how your decisions are influenced by the situation in your country??Would that be cliche too?? Thanks :)</p>

12

<p>I honestly love your second idea about your handwriting! I wish I could think of something more creative like that.</p>