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College Essays

Most colleges and universities in the United States require applicants to submit at least one essay as part of their application. But trying to figure out what college essay topics you should choose is a tricky process. There are so many potential things you could write about!

In this guide, we go over the essential qualities that make for a great college essay topic and give you 50+ college essay topics you can use for your own statement . In addition, we provide you with helpful tips for turning your college essay topic into a stellar college essay.

What Qualities Make for a Good College Essay Topic?

Regardless of what you write about in your personal statement for college , there are key features that will always make for a stand-out college essay topic.

#1: It’s Specific

First off, good college essay topics are extremely specific : you should know all the pertinent facts that have to do with the topic and be able to see how the entire essay comes together.

Specificity is essential because it’ll not only make your essay stand out from other statements, but it'll also recreate the experience for admissions officers through its realism, detail, and raw power. You want to tell a story after all, and specificity is the way to do so. Nobody wants to read a vague, bland, or boring story — not even admissions officers!

For example, an OK topic would be your experience volunteering at a cat shelter over the summer. But a better, more specific college essay topic would be how you deeply connected with an elderly cat there named Marty, and how your bond with him made you realize that you want to work with animals in the future.

Remember that specificity in your topic is what will make your essay unique and memorable . It truly is the key to making a strong statement (pun intended)!

#2: It Shows Who You Are

In addition to being specific, good college essay topics reveal to admissions officers who you are: your passions and interests, what is important to you, your best (or possibly even worst) qualities, what drives you, and so on.

The personal statement is critical because it gives schools more insight into who you are as a person and not just who you are as a student in terms of grades and classes.

By coming up with a real, honest topic, you’ll leave an unforgettable mark on admissions officers.

#3: It’s Meaningful to You

The very best college essay topics are those that hold deep meaning to their writers and have truly influenced them in some significant way.

For instance, maybe you plan to write about the first time you played Skyrim to explain how this video game revealed to you the potentially limitless worlds you could create, thereby furthering your interest in game design.

Even if the topic seems trivial, it’s OK to use it — just as long as you can effectively go into detail about why this experience or idea had such an impact on you .

Don’t give in to the temptation to choose a topic that sounds impressive but doesn’t actually hold any deep meaning for you. Admissions officers will see right through this!

Similarly, don’t try to exaggerate some event or experience from your life if it’s not all that important to you or didn’t have a substantial influence on your sense of self.

#4: It’s Unique

College essay topics that are unique are also typically the most memorable, and if there’s anything you want to be during the college application process, it’s that! Admissions officers have to sift through thousands of applications, and the essay is one of the only parts that allows them to really get a sense of who you are and what you value in life.

If your essay is trite or boring, it won’t leave much of an impression , and your application will likely get immediately tossed to the side with little chance of seeing admission.

But if your essay topic is very original and different, you’re more likely to earn that coveted second glance at your application.

What does being unique mean exactly, though? Many students assume that they must choose an extremely rare or crazy experience to talk about in their essays —but that's not necessarily what I mean by "unique." Good college essay topics can be unusual and different, yes, but they can also be unique takes on more mundane or common activities and experiences .

For instance, say you want to write an essay about the first time you went snowboarding. Instead of just describing the details of the experience and how you felt during it, you could juxtapose your emotions with a creative and humorous perspective from the snowboard itself. Or you could compare your first attempt at snowboarding with your most recent experience in a snowboarding competition. The possibilities are endless!

#5: It Clearly Answers the Question

Finally, good college essay topics will clearly and fully answer the question(s) in the prompt.

You might fail to directly answer a prompt by misinterpreting what it’s asking you to do, or by answering only part of it (e.g., answering just one out of three questions).

Therefore, make sure you take the time to come up with an essay topic that is in direct response to every question in the prompt .

Take this Coalition Application prompt as an example:

What is the hardest part of being a teenager now? What's the best part? What advice would you give a younger sibling or friend (assuming they would listen to you)?

For this prompt, you’d need to answer all three questions (though it’s totally fine to focus more on one or two of them) to write a compelling and appropriate essay.

This is why we recommend reading and rereading the essay prompt ; you should know exactly what it’s asking you to do, well before you start brainstorming possible college application essay topics.

53 College Essay Topics to Get Your Brain Moving

In this section, we give you a list of 53 examples of college essay topics. Use these as jumping-off points to help you get started on your college essay and to ensure that you’re on track to coming up with a relevant and effective topic.

All college application essay topics below are categorized by essay prompt type. We’ve identified six general types of college essay prompts:

Why This College?

Change and personal growth, passions, interests, and goals, overcoming a challenge, diversity and community, solving a problem.

Note that these prompt types could overlap with one another, so you’re not necessarily limited to just one college essay topic in a single personal statement.

• How a particular major or program will help you achieve your academic or professional goals
• A memorable and positive interaction you had with a professor or student at the school
• Something good that happened to you while visiting the campus or while on a campus tour
• A certain class you want to take or a certain professor you’re excited to work with
• Some piece of on-campus equipment or facility that you’re looking forward to using
• Your plans to start a club at the school, possibly to raise awareness of a major issue
• A study abroad or other unique program that you can’t wait to participate in
• How and where you plan to volunteer in the community around the school
• An incredible teacher you studied under and the positive impact they had on you
• How you went from really liking something, such as a particular movie star or TV show, to not liking it at all (or vice versa)
• How yours or someone else’s (change in) socioeconomic status made you more aware of poverty
• A time someone said something to you that made you realize you were wrong
• How your opinion on a controversial topic, such as gay marriage or DACA, has shifted over time
• A documentary that made you aware of a particular social, economic, or political issue going on in the country or world
• Advice you would give to your younger self about friendship, motivation, school, etc.
• The steps you took in order to kick a bad or self-sabotaging habit
• A juxtaposition of the first and most recent time you did something, such as dance onstage
• A book you read that you credit with sparking your love of literature and/or writing
• A school assignment or project that introduced you to your chosen major
• A glimpse of your everyday routine and how your biggest hobby or interest fits into it
• The career and (positive) impact you envision yourself having as a college graduate
• A teacher or mentor who encouraged you to pursue a specific interest you had
• How moving around a lot helped you develop a love of international exchange or learning languages
• A special skill or talent you’ve had since you were young and that relates to your chosen major in some way, such as designing buildings with LEGO bricks
• Where you see yourself in 10 or 20 years
• Your biggest accomplishment so far relating to your passion (e.g., winning a gold medal for your invention at a national science competition)
• A time you lost a game or competition that was really important to you
• How you dealt with the loss or death of someone close to you
• A time you did poorly in a class that you expected to do well in
• How moving to a new school impacted your self-esteem and social life
• A chronic illness you battled or are still battling
• Your healing process after having your heart broken for the first time
• A time you caved under peer pressure and the steps you took so that it won't happen again
• How you almost gave up on learning a foreign language but stuck with it
• Why you decided to become a vegetarian or vegan, and how you navigate living with a meat-eating family
• What you did to overcome a particular anxiety or phobia you had (e.g., stage fright)
• A history of a failed experiment you did over and over, and how you finally found a way to make it work successfully
• Someone within your community whom you aspire to emulate
• A family tradition you used to be embarrassed about but are now proud of
• Your experience with learning English upon moving to the United States
• A close friend in the LGBTQ+ community who supported you when you came out
• A time you were discriminated against, how you reacted, and what you would do differently if faced with the same situation again
• How you navigate your identity as a multiracial, multiethnic, and/or multilingual person
• A project or volunteer effort you led to help or improve your community
• A particular celebrity or role model who inspired you to come out as LGBTQ+
• Your biggest challenge (and how you plan to tackle it) as a female in a male-dominated field
• How you used to discriminate against your own community, and what made you change your mind and eventually take pride in who you are and/or where you come from
• A program you implemented at your school in response to a known problem, such as a lack of recycling cans in the cafeteria
• A time you stepped in to mediate an argument or fight between two people
• An app or other tool you developed to make people’s lives easier in some way
• A time you proposed a solution that worked to an ongoing problem at school, an internship, or a part-time job
• The steps you took to identify and fix an error in coding for a website or program
• An important social or political issue that you would fix if you had the means

How to Build a College Essay in 6 Easy Steps

Once you’ve decided on a college essay topic you want to use, it’s time to buckle down and start fleshing out your essay. These six steps will help you transform a simple college essay topic into a full-fledged personal statement.

Step 1: Write Down All the Details

Once you’ve chosen a general topic to write about, get out a piece of paper and get to work on creating a list of all the key details you could include in your essay . These could be things such as the following:

• Emotions you felt at the time
• Names, places, and/or numbers
• Dialogue, or what you or someone else said
• A specific anecdote, example, or experience
• Descriptions of how things looked, felt, or seemed

If you can only come up with a few details, then it’s probably best to revisit the list of college essay topics above and choose a different one that you can write more extensively on.

Good college essay topics are typically those that:

• You remember well (so nothing that happened when you were really young)
• You're excited to write about
• You're not embarrassed or uncomfortable to share with others
• You believe will make you positively stand out from other applicants

Step 2: Figure Out Your Focus and Approach

Once you have all your major details laid out, start to figure out how you could arrange them in a way that makes sense and will be most effective.

It’s important here to really narrow your focus: you don’t need to (and shouldn’t!) discuss every single aspect of your trip to visit family in Indonesia when you were 16. Rather, zero in on a particular anecdote or experience and explain why and how it impacted you.

Alternatively, you could write about multiple experiences while weaving them together with a clear, meaningful theme or concept , such as how your math teacher helped you overcome your struggle with geometry over the course of an entire school year. In this case, you could mention a few specific times she tutored you and most strongly supported you in your studies.

There’s no one right way to approach your college essay, so play around to see what approaches might work well for the topic you’ve chosen.

If you’re really unsure about how to approach your essay, think about what part of your topic was or is most meaningful and memorable to you, and go from there.

Step 3: Structure Your Narrative

• Beginning: Don’t just spout off a ton of background information here—you want to hook your reader, so try to start in the middle of the action , such as with a meaningful conversation you had or a strong emotion you felt. It could also be a single anecdote if you plan to center your essay around a specific theme or idea.
• Middle: Here’s where you start to flesh out what you’ve established in the opening. Provide more details about the experience (if a single anecdote) or delve into the various times your theme or idea became most important to you. Use imagery and sensory details to put the reader in your shoes.
• End: It’s time to bring it all together. Finish describing the anecdote or theme your essay centers around and explain how it relates to you now , what you’ve learned or gained from it, and how it has influenced your goals.

Step 4: Write a Rough Draft

By now you should have all your major details and an outline for your essay written down; these two things will make it easy for you to convert your notes into a rough draft.

At this stage of the writing process, don’t worry too much about vocabulary or grammar and just focus on getting out all your ideas so that they form the general shape of an essay . It’s OK if you’re a little over the essay's word limit — as you edit, you’ll most likely make some cuts to irrelevant and ineffective parts anyway.

If at any point you get stuck and have no idea what to write, revisit steps 1-3 to see whether there are any important details or ideas you might be omitting or not elaborating on enough to get your overall point across to admissions officers.

Step 5: Edit, Revise, and Proofread

• Sections that are too wordy and don’t say anything important
• Irrelevant details that don’t enhance your essay or the point you're trying to make
• Parts that seem to drag or that feel incredibly boring or redundant
• Areas that are vague and unclear and would benefit from more detail
• Phrases or sections that are awkwardly placed and should be moved around
• Areas that feel unconvincing, inauthentic, or exaggerated

Start paying closer attention to your word choice/vocabulary and grammar at this time, too. It’s perfectly normal to edit and revise your college essay several times before asking for feedback, so keep working with it until you feel it’s pretty close to its final iteration.

This step will likely take the longest amount of time — at least several weeks, if not months — so really put effort into fixing up your essay. Once you’re satisfied, do a final proofread to ensure that it’s technically correct.

Step 6: Get Feedback and Tweak as Needed

After you’ve overhauled your rough draft and made it into a near-final draft, give your essay to somebody you trust , such as a teacher or parent, and have them look it over for technical errors and offer you feedback on its content and overall structure.

Use this feedback to make any last-minute changes or edits. If necessary, repeat steps 5 and 6. You want to be extra sure that your essay is perfect before you submit it to colleges!

Recap: From College Essay Topics to Great College Essays

Many different kinds of college application essay topics can get you into a great college. But this doesn’t make it any easier to choose the best topic for you .

In general, the best college essay topics have the following qualities :

• They’re specific
• They show who you are
• They’re meaningful to you
• They’re unique
• They clearly answer the question

If you ever need help coming up with an idea of what to write for your essay, just refer to the list of 53 examples of college essay topics above to get your brain juices flowing.

Once you’ve got an essay topic picked out, follow these six steps for turning your topic into an unforgettable personal statement :

• Write down all the details
• Figure out your focus and approach
• Structure your narrative
• Write a rough draft
• Edit, revise, and proofread
• Get feedback and tweak as needed

And with that, I wish you the best of luck on your college essays!

What’s Next?

Writing a college essay is no simple task. Get expert college essay tips with our guides on how to come up with great college essay ideas and how to write a college essay, step by step .

You can also check out this huge list of college essay prompts  to get a feel for what types of questions you'll be expected to answer on your applications.

Want to see examples of college essays that absolutely rocked? You're in luck because we've got a collection of 100+ real college essay examples right here on our blog!

Hannah received her MA in Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California. From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel.

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19 College Essay Topics and Prompts

Not sure what to write for your college essay? We've got you covered with a number of topics and prompts to help shape your unique story.

As part of your college application materials, you'll likely be asked to submit a college essay. These tend to be between 250 and 650 words , and are a unique opportunity to showcase your personality. Admissions panels are typically looking for students who will positively represent the school as a whole. In the end, your goal is to show them that you and the college are a good match. 

When drafting your college essay, you may be expected to answer a prompt or come up with a topic on your own. In this article, we've rounded up several ideas to get you thinking—and writing.

19 college essay topics

Each school sets different requirements around the college essay, so it's important to review the expectations around every application you intend to submit. Some give you creative freedom, while others expect you to respond to a pre-developed prompt. Either way, a strong college essay conveys to the admissions team who you are, why you want to attend that particular school, and what matters to you. It's a way to personalize an application that often focuses on quantitative data, such as GPA and SAT scores.

If you're given the creative freedom to write about whatever you want, consider a college essay topic that allows you to be honest and original. We've compiled the following ideas to help you brainstorm:

What's an important issue you care about? How have you gotten involved?

Have you changed your mind about something in recent years? What was it and why?

What's a situation that caused you to grow?

Explain a time when you failed. What did you learn from that moment?

Share a surprising pastime or hobby and what interested you about it.

What extracurricular activity are you involved in that speaks to your personality?

Detail a meaningful volunteer experience.

Dive into a meaningful travel experience.

Who do you most admire and why?

If you have a unique background, share a bit about it. How did you get where you are?

What's the best advice you've ever received?

Was there ever a time when you had to stand up for something—or someone?

What's something you might change about the world to make it better?

What do you hope to accomplish by attending college?

Is there something you want to do after graduating college?

Have you ever made or created something? Talk about it.

Do you have a big idea that could potentially impact your community?

What is most valuable to you? Dive into your values and share an example.

What are you most passionate about? Why?

Pre-developed college essay prompts

Some colleges and universities will give you a series of prompts to choose from. These will vary from school to school, and can either be questions or statements. Here are a few examples of both.

Sample question prompts:

What excites your intellectual curiosity?

How has your upbringing shaped the person you are today?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Sample statement prompts:

Talk about an unusual circumstance in your life

Share how you hope to use your college education

Discuss a list of books you have read in the last year

Common App essay prompts

Common App is an online platform designed to simplify the college application process. Over 900 colleges use Common App, making it possible for you to fill out one application that's then submitted to multiple schools.

If you choose to complete the Common App, you'll have a choice of several distinctive prompts that change every academic year. Here's a sample of the 2022-2023 essay prompts [ 1 ]:

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Stick to the prompt.

No matter what type of prompt you receive, it's your job to stick to it. The admissions team has a lot of essays to read, so you'll have a better chance of standing out if you develop a cohesive response that stays on topic.

Start by identifying the prompt's main topic, then spend some time brainstorming to find the idea that resonates most with you. For many people, it's the topic that makes them feel some sort of emotion or reminds them of an entertaining story. Understanding what you're being asked to write about should make staying on topic throughout the entire composition easier.

5 additional college essay tips

Once you decide what you'd like to write, follow the tips below to craft a standout essay. You can also find more advice about college essays in our article College Essay Format: Writing and Editing Tips .

1. Be considerate with humor.

Showing off your sense of humor lets your personality show through your words and can make reading the essay more entertaining. Try including a few sentences that you think will bring a smile to the reader's face, or use adjectives to insert some colorful comedy.

2. Offer insight.

Beyond recounting an event, experience, or memory, a great essay shows insight aka an ability to highlight meaningful takeaways. For example, if you choose to write about your unique hobby, try to discuss what you've learned from that pastime—or how you've grown as a result of it.

3. Add details

Great essays also invite the reader to connect with the story on an emotional level. With that in mind, it can help to recount a specific memory rather than answer a prompt without those colorful details. More than discussing something on a surface level—or vaguely—you want to provide enough particulars to keep your readers engaged. For example, if you choose to write about the best advice you ever received, set the scene and take the reader back to that moment.

4. Have an editor.

Your essay should ideally be error-free. Ask a trusted friend or family member to review your essay and suggest edits. An editor can help you catch grammatical errors or points out ways to better develop your response.

Avoid passing your paper along to too many people, though, so you don't lose your own voice amid all of the edits and suggestions. The admissions team wants to get to know you through your writing and not your sister or best friend who edited your paper.

5. Revise your essay.

Your first draft is just that: a draft. Give yourself plenty of time to read and revise your first pass and make sure you fully developed your response, stayed on topic, and shared your personality.

When revising your essay, you may find it helpful to read it aloud so you hear the words as you're saying them. Some people prefer to print a copy on paper and write notes by hand. Both options give your brain a new way to process the information to catch details you may miss if you keep everything in your head and on the computer.

Watch to find out why the essay many admission counselor's favorite part of the application:

Next steps: Apply with confidence

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Article sources

Common App. " First-year essay prompts , https://www.commonapp.org/apply/essay-prompts." Accessed February 8, 2023.

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Discover Personalized Topics for Your US College Admissions Essay ⚡

Struggling to pinpoint a compelling topic for your college admissions essay? You're not alone. Choosing a subject that reflects your unique experiences and aspirations can be challenging. Our tool is designed to assist you in uncovering and shaping a distinctive and personal essay topic, setting you on the path to crafting a memorable and impactful admissions narrative.

Great College Essays Start With Great Topics: Find Your Best Ideas Now

A great personal essay topic is one that illuminates your unique motivations, values, and aspirations. But the search for the right topic is too often a major stumbling block…

Now there’s a unique tool designed to help you uncover high-quality and personalized, essay topics in just three easy steps.

Why Use Our Essay Topic Tool?

• Get Suggestions Tailored to Your Life Story: Our AI-driven chatbot interacts with you to understand your interests and experiences, providing topics tailored just for you.
• Say Goodbye to Writer's Block: No more hours spent looking for ideas or wondering what’s "good enough." Quickly navigate to subjects that make your essay stand out.
• Uncover Fresh Ideas: While your inputs keep you in the driver's seat, our bot might see something you don't, offering you fresh perspectives that enhance your creativity. 
• Eliminate the Guesswork (Fast): Once your chat is complete, you’ll be outfitted instantly with a great topic AND a detailed essay plan to jumpstart the next step.

How It Works (3 Easy Steps…)

1. chat with our ai.

Engage in a simple conversation. Answer a few questions about your interests, experiences, and aspirations.

2. Review your Topics

Receive a list of potential essay topics, crafted to highlight your unique experiences and perspectives.

3. Get Your Essay Plan

A structured plan helps you flesh out your topic, ensuring you're on the right track from the start.

Tips for Better Results:

Remember, the goal of this tool is to make the essay brainstorming process as intuitive and stress-free as possible, so you’re not spinning your wheels, can launch faster, and have more time and creative energy for sharing your unique story!

Be Authentic

Your true experiences and genuine feelings will always lead to a more powerful and relatable essay topic. So, use our tools, but don’t forget your inner voice…

Stay Open-Minded

While you might have a preference, exploring different areas of your background might reveal unexpected and compelling essay angles.

Get a Second Opinion

It’s always good practice to get outside input as you go, from a college counselor, for example, or other trusted adult.

Is the tool free to use?

Absolutely! Our goal is to assist as many students as possible in finding their perfect essay topic.

How is my data used?

Your privacy is paramount. All interactions are confidential, and your data is not stored or shared.

How long does it take to get my results?

Within minutes of finishing your chat, your personalized essay topics and plan will be ready for you.

Can I use the generated topics for any college essay?

Yes! While the topics are tailored to your input, they are versatile enough to be adapted for multiple prompts.

What Makes a High-Quality College Essay Topic?

A great essay topic isn't just about what's trending or what seems impressive. It's about authenticity, passion, and personal insight. Here's what sets an outstanding topic apart:

Depth Over Breadth

A stellar topic isn't about cramming in multiple experiences but delving deeply into one, showcasing introspection and personal growth.

Genuineness & Authenticity

Instead of chasing grandiosity, choose a topic that's true to your experiences. Authentic narratives resonate more than exaggerated tales.

Relevance to Personal Journey

The topic should link back to your personal growth, aspirations, or values. It’s not just about the event, but its significance in your life's tapestry.

Insights & Learnings

A great topic paves the way for rich insights. What did you learn? How did it alter your perspective or future aspirations?

Evokes a Strong Emotion or Thought

Whether it inspires, challenges, or resonates, a quality topic should stir emotions or provoke thoughts in the reader.

Unique Angle or Perspective

Even if the core idea is common, a fresh perspective and the unique lens through which you present your topic can set your essay apart.

Clear Focus

A high-quality topic is specific and doesn’t try to cover everything. It has a clear narrative direction, ensuring the reader remains engaged from start to finish.

15 College Essay Topics & Ideas That Worked

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 8/17/23

College essays need to inspire the admissions teams and get them excited about the idea of you joining their community. The college essay is your opportunity to show why you’d be a good fit.  

The college essay is the portion of your college application that best showcases who you are. College admissions officers are looking for the most authentic you; a good topic can showcase that. 

The prompts for the essay change year-to-year, so the topics can be hard to prepare for. However, here is some advice for writing your college essay where you can display your authentic voice and some topic examples to help you apply this advice.

15 Topics That Worked

Below are some college essay topics that stand out. Using these prompts can help you start writing a college essay for a stellar application! 

1. Write About A Time Where You Were Inspired

Where did you find your passion? Your inspiration for applying to a school or program is one of the main aspects of your application that admissions officers want to hear you express. Writing about these moments can make a great essay. 

2. Write About A Time Where Your Opinion on Something Was Radically Altered

Writing about a radical change in your worldview can display authentic growth that showcases your thoughtfulness and ability to grow as a person.  These two qualities can make a worthwhile addition to any college campus. 

3. Write About Your Life Trajectory Through Your Parent or Guardians’ Perspective

Nobody will know your journey and the impact events in your life have had on you better than your parents. Writing about yourself from their perspective can give a great birds-eye-view of who you are as a person and why you’re applying for this particular program/school. 

4. Write About One of Your Failures

Diving deep into a failure (whether personal, academic, professional, etc.) is one of the best ways to grow as a person. Writing about a failure, why you failed and how that failure changed you is a perfect topic because it displays growth, perseverance, and maturity. 

5. Write About an Extracurricular Activity That Changed You

Extracurricular activities are an important part of college applications. Writing about your profound relationship with one or multiple extracurricular activities can give new depth to your application. It can also make you stand out against others with comparable extracurriculars. 

Also, take time to discuss your summer activities. Ivy leagues look for summer activities , so make sure to highlight them! If you attended a summer program for high school students , colleges want to hear about it too. 

6. Write About Your Goals for College

Writing about what you wish to achieve at college as your essay topic can help you put together a distinctive college admissions essay. If your goals align with the goals of the program/school (which they likely do, considering you’re applying there), then it can show admissions teams that you’ll fit well at the school.

7. Write About Embracing Mentorship 

A mentorship transforms you through guidance and support. Delve into the impact of a mentor who shaped your journey and influenced your choice to apply to this college/program. Maybe you attended an internship for high school students , where you learned a lot. 

By sharing how their insights moulded your goals, you highlight openness to learning and thriving under guidance. This narrative reflects unique qualities like collaboration and growth valued by colleges.

8. Write About Learning from Cultural Misunderstanding

A single cultural misunderstanding sparks a journey of self-discovery. Recount an experience where a misunderstanding prompted questioning assumptions, leading to personal growth and a broader perspective. 

Show willingness to learn from challenges and embrace diversity. Through your narrative, show how empathy and understanding pave the way for connections and personal development.

9. Write About Embracing Unexpected Success

Success that takes you by surprise can change how you see yourself. Tell a story about a time you achieved something unexpectedly and how it made you rethink your abilities. 

Explain how this success proved your adaptability and determination, showing how resilient you are and how you're open to new opportunities. This experience lines up with the ever-changing college life.

10. Write About Reflecting on Thought-Provoking Quotes

Quotes are powerful sources of inspiration and belief-shaping. Dive into a quote that really resonates with you, and talk about how it's impacted your way of seeing things and your dreams. 

Dig into the details and effects to show how it reflects your introspective and critical thinking abilities. This highlights your curiosity and how your values align with the college/program.

11. Write About Driving Community Involvement 

Getting involved in community service can be transformative. Talk about how you took part in a significant initiative that changed how you see social issues. 

Reflect on how you contributed to positive change, which aligns with the college/program's values. Show your dedication to creating social impact and how you can contribute to the campus community.

12. Write About Embracing Change Through Adversity

Facing challenges can bring growth. Think of a tough time you overcame and how it made you stronger. Share the lessons, resilience, and positive changes you got from it. This shows you can handle tough situations and develop personally, qualities colleges like.

13. Write About Fostering Growth Through Cross-Cultural Friendships

Cross-cultural friendships broaden your perspective. Talk about how these friendships expanded your view of the world and influenced your educational goals. 

Show your openness to learning from diverse viewpoints and your commitment to global understanding. Highlight how you aim to enrich the campus environment through your experiences.

14. Write About Turning Passion into Action

Transforming passion into action shows your drive and commitment. Explain how your passion motivated you to take real steps within your school or community. Describe the tangible results to emphasize your readiness for leadership and positive impact. This aligns perfectly with the college/program's focus on proactive engagement.

15. Write About a Personal Symbol or Object

Personal symbols carry deep meaning. When you explore their significance, you reveal how they reflect your values and aspirations. Describe how personal symbols shape your identity and provide insights into your character and ability to reflect. This highlights your potential to make a meaningful contribution to the college/program community.

It might also be helpful to search online for some existing topics from the specific school/program you’re applying to. 

This way, you can understand what each specific school is looking for in the essay portion of the application. Whether you’re writing a supplemental essay , an optional essay , or a primary essay - it’s important to know what’s expected of you. It’s also important if you’re answering prompts from The Common Application -

What Is A Good Topic?

Unique college essay topics can be difficult to come by. It's essential to pinpoint the key influences that led you to this point to write a stand-out college essay . 

Start by asking yourself 'Why?' Why are you passionate about this? Why does it relate to the program you're applying to? These questions help form your 'why' statement. Honing in on your ‘why’ and finding your purpose will make for a compelling essay. 

Once you have your 'why,' delve into 'What?' Share past experiences and future goals that align with your 'why.' Think about challenges you've conquered, what interests you about the program, and what you aim to achieve. Connect these through a story that showcases your passion's evolution, challenges, and your program's role.

Authentic college application narratives start with genuine essay topics. Your topic should reflect your experiences and values, showcasing your authenticity and making your essay compelling to admissions officers.

Remember, there's no magic formula for an inspiring essay. A strong topic reveals your journey, how it transformed you, the problem you're addressing, and why it drives you. It might take time, as your passion is still evolving. What matters is not just the topic but where you stand on your journey. It’s also key to learn how to end your college essay . 

Reviewing examples of amazing essays is an excellent way to spark your creative thinking. By seeing how others have crafted their essays, you can gain inspiration and insights into effective storytelling, helping you generate your own unique and compelling ideas.

Good University Admissions Essay Topics FAQs 

Finding the perfect topic is a worthwhile journey of self-reflection. Below are some common FAQs to help you write about the best topic for you!

1. How Do I Find a Good Topic?

Think about significant moments in your life and how they’ve led you to this moment. If you can express why these moments are of significance to you and how they’ve changed you as a person, you’ve got a good topic. 

2. What Are Good Topics to Avoid?

Some essay topics to avoid include but are not limited to highly personal stories, stories with controversial subject matter, stories boasting about accomplishments and accolades, humorous topics, and stories exemplifying your luck or privilege. 

3.  Can You Reuse Topics?

It might be possible to tweak a college essay you’ve already written if another school’s essay prompt is similar. However, you shouldn’t anchor yourself to an essay topic you’ve previously written about. 

If there’s a prompt another college has offered you to write about and you feel that you can write a better essay with this prompt, then don’t be afraid to start from scratch!

4.  How to Decide Between Topics?

If different topics compel you and are compatible with the prompt, it can be hard to figure out which one might be better to write about. It’s important to remember that your essay displays you as a person. You should give preference for whichever essay topic you believe best displays your qualifications for the college/program.

Final Thoughts

The essay portion of your college application gives admissions officers a deeper understanding of who you are and why you chose to apply to this school and program. 

Make sure your essay topic is up to par in authenticity, as it can make a lasting impression on admissions teams. It’s also key to make sure it follows the college requirements . 

In 2019 , over half of admissions counselors ranked the essay portion of a college application to be of moderate to considerable importance. This means that your essay is as essential an aspect of your application as any other, and has the potential to make or break your application.

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60+ College Essay Prompts From Actual 2023-2024 Applications

Ideas to inspire every college applicant.

Writing a college application essay can be a stressful task for a lot of students. The more practice they get in advance, the better! This roundup of college essay prompts gives applicants a chance to explore their thinking, polish their writing, and prepare to make the best possible impression on selection committees. Every one of these questions is taken from real college applications for the 2023-2024 season, so they’re meaningful and applicable to today’s high school seniors.

Common App 2023-2024 College Essay Prompts

2023-2024 coalition for college essay prompts, life experiences college essay prompts, personal college essay prompts, academics college essay prompts, creative college essay prompts.

Hundreds of colleges and universities use the Common App process . For many schools, this includes responding to one of several college essay topics, which can change each year. Here are the essay prompts for the current application cycle (check with your chosen school/s to see if an essay is required).

• Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
• The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

• Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
• Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
• Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

• Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
• Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

More than 150 colleges and universities use the Coalition for College process . Here are their essay prompts for 2023-2024.

• Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it.

• What interests or excites you? How does it shape who you are now or who you might become in the future?
• Describe a time when you had a positive impact on others. What were the challenges? What were the rewards?
• Has there been a time when an idea or belief of yours was questioned? How did you respond? What did you learn?
• What success have you achieved or obstacle have you faced? What advice would you give a sibling or friend going through a similar experience?

• Submit an essay on a topic of your choice.

Answer these questions by sharing specific examples from your own experience.

• Who is your favorite conversation partner? What do you discuss with that person?
• Discuss a time when reflection or introspection led to clarity or understanding of an issue that is important to you.
• Share an example of how you have used your own critical-thinking skills on a specific subject, project, idea, or interest.

• Describe a time when you were challenged by a perspective that differed from your own. How did you respond?
• What are the best words of advice you have received? Who shared them, and how have you applied them in your own life?
• Elaborate on an activity or experience you have had that made an impact on a community that is important to you.
• Using your personal, academic, or volunteer/work experiences, describe the topics or issues that you care about and why they are important to you.
• Who do you agree with on the big, important things, or who do you have your most interesting disagreements with? What are you agreeing or disagreeing about?
• Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness.
• When was the last time you questioned something you had thought to be true?
• Discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved.
• Reflect on a time when you or someone you observed had to make a choice about whether to act with integrity and honesty.
• Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time.

• Describe a time you did not meet expectations and what impact the experience had on you.

These essay topics give schools a better sense of who you are, what you value, and the kind of student citizen you might be.

• What drives you to create, and what do you hope to make or have you made?
• Which book, character, song, monologue, or piece of work (fiction or nonfiction) seems made for you? Why?
• What would you want your future college roommate to know about you?
• How has your own background influenced the types of problems you want to solve, the people you want to work with, and the impact you hope your work can have?

• Describe any meaningful travel experiences you’ve had.
• What would you want to be different in your own country or community to further principles of equality, equity, or social justice?
• What strength or quality do you have that most people might not see or recognize?
• If you could live your life fighting for one cause, what would it be and why?
• What gives meaning to your life?
• If you wrote a letter to yourself to be opened in 20 years, what would it say?
• If you had the power to change the course of history in your community or the world, what would you do and why?

• Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it.
• What is the greatest compliment you have ever been given? Why was it meaningful to you?
• Explain how a text you’ve read—fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or literature of any kind—has helped you to understand the world’s complexity.

Topics like these show your academic interests and demonstrate your commitment to learning and discovery.

• What does it mean to you to be educated?
• What is your motivation for pursuing higher education?
• Describe your reasons for wanting to attend the specific school you’re applying to. Who or what factored into your decision?
• Academic inquiry starts with bold questions. What are some of the bold questions you have pondered that get you excited, and why do they interest you?

• What has been your best academic experience in the last two years, and what made it so good?
• If you decide to take a “gap year” between high school and college, what would you do during that time?
• Many schools place a high value on diverse student populations. How can you contribute to and support a diverse and inclusive student population at your chosen school?
• Imagine you were just awarded a research grant for a project of your choice. What are you researching and why?
• What do you love about the subject(s) you selected as potential major(s)? If undecided, share more about one of your academic passions.

• Describe a time when you’ve felt empowered or represented by an educator.
• Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

Use these college essay topics to show off your creativity and innovative thinking.

• You are tasked with creating a new category for the Nobel Prize. Explain what it would be, why you chose your specific category, and the criteria necessary to achieve this accomplishment.

• Pick one person—a historical figure, fictitious character, or modern individual—to converse with for an hour, and explain your choice.
• If you could witness a historic event (past, present, or future) firsthand, what would it be and why?
• If you could have a theme song, what would it be and why?
• Discuss a book that you would call a “great book.” What makes the book great in your view?
• If you could give any historical figure any piece of technology, who and what would it be, and why do you think they’d work so well together?
• If I could travel anywhere, I would go to …
• My favorite thing about last Tuesday was …
• Write a short thank-you note to someone you have not yet thanked and would like to acknowledge.
• If you had 10 minutes and the attention of a million people, what would your TED Talk be about?
• What are your three favorite words in the English language? Explain what they mean to you.
• Imagine that you could have one superpower. What would it be and how would you use it? What would be your kryptonite?

• Which Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavor (real or imagined) best describes you?
• If you could create a college course that all students would take, what would it be about and why?
• What website is the internet missing?

How do you help your students prepare their college application essays? Come share your ideas and ask for advice in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out  the ultimate guide to college scholarships.

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From Boring to Brilliant: How to Write Original and Unique College Essays

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How often do you find yourself stuck in a creative rut trying to come up with interesting and unique college essays? Your essays might be a dull read, lack inspiration, or fail to make a memorable impact.

There could be several reasons behind this, such as struggling with writer's block, feeling rushed to meet deadlines, or simply not being confident in your writing abilities.

Whatever the reason, college professors go through thousands of essays, and the last thing they want is to read the same old thing over and over again.

What does originality mean in an essay?

Originality means coming up with a fresh perspective on a well-known topic. It’s about presenting your ideas in a unique way that captures the reader's attention. It’s not about reinventing the wheel. Instead, it's about finding a new angle to approach a topic that has already been discussed.

Why is originality important?

Originality is important because it sets you apart from other students and showcases your creativity. College professors read several essays, and having one that stands out and sticks in their minds can make a big difference. Additionally, originality can demonstrate your ability to think outside the box, which is valuable in any field.

Now that it has been established why originality is important, the question is: How can you infuse originality in your college essays? In this blog post, we'll explore how to write original and unique college essays that will leave a lasting impression on your readers.

1. Brainstorm on how to approach it differently

A common mistake that many students make is fixating on what they believe is the standard approach. This results in generic essays that fail to stand out.

To make your essay unique, brainstorm ideas on how to approach it from a different perspective. Think creatively, draw from your personal interests, and share your distinct experiences to make your essay stand out.

For example, instead of writing about a common topic like climate change, you could focus on how climate change affects something important to you, like the coral reefs in your hometown.

By exploring your own interests and using your unique experiences, you can bring a genuine sense of passion and authenticity to your essay. This will make it different from what other students are writing and will grab the attention of your readers.

2. Deviate from the standard accepted opinions

College professors value students who can think critically and express their own opinions. Therefore, when writing essays, don’t be afraid to deviate from the standard opinions and take a different stance on a topic.

One way to make your essay stand out is by challenging the conventional beliefs that most people share. For instance, let's say the majority of people believe that technology has negatively impacted social interactions.

Instead of following the crowd, you could choose to argue that technology has actually enhanced communication and fostered new forms of connection in our modern society. By challenging conventional beliefs and presenting a fresh perspective, your essay would undoubtedly stand out from the crowd and captivate the attention of your readers.

Always ask yourself: Can I offer a fresh perspective? Can I approach the same topic from a unique angle?

3. Generate new, creative ideas

Originality is key when writing college essays . Try to generate new ideas that have not been written about before.

To produce original ideas, you can get inspiration from literature, historical events, or current events. Read widely and research extensively to find new, innovative ideas on the topic.

For instance, let's say you're asked to write an essay on the effects of social media on society. Instead of rehashing the commonly discussed points, you could explore how social media has influenced political movements throughout history by examining cases such as the Arab Spring or the Black Lives Matter movement.

By delving into these real-life examples and drawing connections to the broader impact of social media, you can provide a unique and thought-provoking analysis that sets your essay apart.

Having trouble coming up with creative angles or ideas? This is where our expert essay writers can help . In addition to writing, citing, and proofreading essays, they are also involved in the research and brainstorming process, helping you take your essays from boring to brilliant.

4. Use metaphors and analogies to make it vivid

Figurative languages like metaphors and analogies are powerful tools that can make your essay stand out from the crowd.

They breathe life into your essay and make it engaging and memorable for the reader. You can always use them to make your essays interesting and capture the attention of readers.

For instance, instead of simply stating that you are interested in pursuing a career in medicine, you can make it memorable by using a metaphor to describe your passion: " My desire to become a doctor is like a flame that never dies out, constantly fueled by the joy of healing and helping others. "

However, be sure to use metaphors and analogies sparingly so they don't overshadow the main message of your essay.

5. Incorporate personal experiences

Personal experiences are a great way to illustrate your points and make your essay more relatable. They add depth and credibility to your writing and are an excellent tool for conveying your message.

To make your essays unique, use personal anecdotes to show how you felt and what you learned from the experience. When you share your feelings, challenges, and eventual success, it not only makes your essay more interesting but also offers real proof of the ideas you're supporting.

For example, let's say you're writing an essay about the importance of perseverance. Instead of relying solely on general statements, you can share a personal anecdote about a time when you faced a significant challenge and overcame it through sheer determination.

Remember: Your personal experiences are special to you, and when you present them in a compelling way, they can create a bond with your readers and make your essay stand out from the rest. This is another reason why it’s a bad idea to use AI for writing essays .

6. Get creative with storytelling

Storytelling is the essence of creative and original writing.

Your essay should highlight your experiences, and what better way to showcase that than through storytelling?

Make it stand out by telling a personal story that shows your unique perspective. You can also use vivid imagery, anecdotes, and descriptive language that engages the reader more.

Personal stories could include how you overcame a difficult obstacle, a significant moment in your life that shaped you, or a turning point that led you to where you are now. Your story should reflect who you are and what you value in life.

How do you fix dry writing?

One way to fix dry writing is to start by conducting thorough research on the topic and gathering relevant and interesting facts. Once you’ve gathered your information, you can use creative writing techniques, like metaphors, similes, or other literary devices, to make your writing more engaging.

7. Add humor to make it interesting

An essay that can make people laugh is an essay that captures attention and leaves a lasting impression.

When writing, try to add humor whenever possible to make the essay interesting to read . It also shows that you aren't afraid to be vulnerable.

For instance, let's say you're writing a personal narrative about a funny mishap you experienced while traveling. By sharing humorous details and showcasing your ability to laugh at yourself, you not only bring entertainment to your readers but also reveal your willingness to embrace moments of vulnerability.

However, be careful to use wit and humor wisely while ensuring it aligns with the overall tone and purpose of your essay. It needs to enhance the essay and not detract from the main message.

8. Do not plagiarize

One of the best ways to ensure your essay is unique is to write it from your perspective. Avoid copying and pasting other people’s work, and don’t steal ideas because they’ll be easily recognizable by the professor.

If you use sources for research or inspiration, ensure you cite them properly. Also, cite direct quotes, and if you’re unsure of a particular phrase’s origin, it's best to rephrase it.

Plagiarism in any form — whether from websites, books, or other students— is a serious offense that can lead to dire consequences, including expulsion from the college. That’s why your essays should always be completely original and authentic.

The good news is when you buy a college paper from Writers Per Hour , you get a plagiarism report entirely free of charge. That way, you know you’re paying for 100% original essays.

9. Ask for feedback

Before submitting your essay, ask someone else to review it to get a fresh perspective. 

This person could be a teacher, friend, or parent. Choose someone you trust who will keep your best interest in mind and give constructive feedback.

Listening to someone else’s input can help you identify areas that need improvement, and you can make the necessary changes for your essay to stand out.

How do I make my writing not cringe?

Your writing can make you cringe if you lack confidence in your writing or lack understanding of your audience. It might be helpful to read your essay aloud, and if something makes you cringe, change it.

Additionally, always consider your audience when you write. Use a formal tone and avoid slang or overly casual language. Lastly, be sure to edit and proofread your work thoroughly to avoid any embarrassing mistakes.

Writing a unique college essay requires time, effort, and dedication. However, it always pays to be creative and unique rather than lost in the large pool of similar essays. With the right approach and mindset, you can easily transform your boring writing into something brilliant and engaging.

Always strive for originality and make an effort to write in a distinct manner that sets you apart from your classmates. Additionally, infusing your essays with your unique personality can make them truly outstanding and earn you high scores!

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Unique College Essay Ideas and Insights

Writing a college essay can be a daunting task. You have to tell your story in a way that captures the attention of the admissions officers, showcases your personality, and reveals your potential. But how do you do that?

One of the best ways to learn how to write a college essay is to read examples of successful essays. By reading other peoples’ stories, you can get a sense of what works and what doesn’t, what makes an essay memorable and what makes it boring, and what topics and styles are most effective.

To help you discover the power of personal narratives, we have curated a collection of inspiring essays that not only showcase unique experiences but also provide valuable insights into resilience, heritage, creativity, and personal growth.

Join us as we explore these remarkable stories that will inspire and guide you in writing an exceptional college essay that stands out from the competition.

There Is No Such Thing As Too Much Barbecue

In “There Is No Such Thing as Too Much Barbecue,” Jason Sheehan delves into his profound love for barbecue, portraying it as more than just a type of food, but a comforting and unifying cultural element.

He asserts that barbecue, with its various regional and ethnic interpretations, serves as a source of comfort and celebration. Sheehan contends that barbecue shapes culture, rather than being a product of it, and has even contributed to early progress towards equality and civil rights in the Deep South. He highlights the artistry and expertise involved in barbecue, which demands a deep understanding of fire, convection, and the science of meat, heat, and smoke.

The essay is insightful as it elevates barbecuing from a mere culinary activity to a significant cultural phenomenon with the power to unite people and drive societal change.

A Duty to Family, Heritage, and Country

Ying Ying Yu’s essay, “A Duty to Family, Heritage, and Country,” is a profound reflection on the sacrifices made by her parents, ancestors, teachers, and homeland. As a 13-year-old immigrant from China, she expresses a deep sense of duty to honor these sacrifices.

The essay insightfully explores the high standards imposed on Chinese students and the singular dream of success in the eyes of their family and country. Through her personal narrative, Yu provides a compelling perspective on the intersection of individual aspirations and cultural expectations, making it a thought-provoking exploration of identity and heritage.

Creative Solutions to Life’s Challenges

In “Creative Solutions To Life’s Challenges,” Frank X Walker explores the concept of creativity as a universal survival skill. He uses personal anecdotes to illustrate how creativity manifests in various forms, from his mother’s resourceful cooking and sewing to his own experiences with art and writing.

Walker argues that creativity can provide innovative solutions to life’s challenges and enrich our world. He calls for a broader understanding of art and artists, recognizing the creative expression inherent in everyday professions and activities.

The essay is insightful as it reframes our understanding of creativity and artistry, emphasizing their presence and importance in daily life.

Do What You Love (by Tony Hawk)

In his essay, “Do What You Love,” Tony Hawk, a professional skateboarder, shares his journey of turning a childhood activity into a professional career.

Despite facing scorn and misunderstanding from the public, Hawk emphasizes the importance of taking pride in what one does. He recounts his perseverance through the challenges he faced, including injuries and mockery, and his continued progression as a skater.

Hawk’s essay is insightful as it illustrates the value of passion and dedication in pursuing one’s interests, regardless of societal perceptions. It serves as a testament to the fulfillment that comes from doing what one loves, even when it defies conventional norms.

Tomorrow Will Be a Better Day

Josh Rittenberg’s essay, “Tomorrow Will Be a Better Day,” is a thoughtful reflection on hope and resilience. As a teenager, Rittenberg contemplates the challenges his ancestors overcame and the future his generation faces.

Despite hearing his father’s fears about the world’s future, Rittenberg finds solace in the accomplishments of his grandparents and great-grandparents, who witnessed both devastating and uplifting events. He expresses optimism for his generation, believing they will see advancements such as the cure for AIDS and cancer, peace in the Middle East, and even the Cubs winning the World Series.

The essay is insightful as it explores themes of hope, resilience, and the importance of looking forward, reminding us that every generation has its trials and triumphs, and that progress is possible.

Zachary Broken Rope’s essay, ‘Fry Bread’, is a profound exploration of identity and heritage.

Broken Rope, of German and Native American descent, recounts his journey of self-discovery through the lens of his mixed heritage. He shares his experiences of feeling out of place in both cultures, and the guilt he felt for the privileges his lighter skin tone afforded him. The turning point comes when a family member teaches him the importance of his heritage and the concept of ‘Mitakuye Oyasin’, a Lakota phrase meaning ‘we are all one people’. This lesson helps him understand that his identity transcends skin color and societal labels.

The essay is insightful as it sheds light on the complexities of cultural identity, the impact of societal perceptions, and the power of self-acceptance.

The Power of Hello

“The Power of ‘Hello’” is an essay by Howard White that underscores the significant influence of a simple greeting.

White recounts his mother’s advice to always acknowledge others, a lesson that has shaped his life. He brings this to life with a story about his encounters with the founder of his company, showing how a mere ‘hello’ can foster meaningful connections.

The essay conveys that the act of greeting can not only brighten someone’s day but also pave the way for opportunities, positioning it as a potent tool in daily life.

My Father Told Me I Was Fat

Cherie Burbach’s essay, “My Father Told Me I Was Fat,” is a poignant exploration of her journey from a childhood marred by her father’s cruel words to her transformation into a confident adult who values her own words over her father’s.

The essay reveals how Burbach used writing as an escape and a form of self-expression, despite her father’s constant verbal assaults. She continued to write, even when she believed his words that she was “fat, lazy, and stupid.” It wasn’t until her father’s death that she realized his words didn’t have to define her. She began to value her writing, eventually publishing her poetry, and came to see herself as intelligent, spirited, and beautiful.

This essay is insightful as it illustrates the power of words, both destructive and healing, and the strength of the human spirit to overcome adversity.

Finding the Flexibility to Survive

Brighton Earley’s essay, “Finding the Flexibility to Survive,” is a touching narrative about her family’s experience with financial hardship and how it has influenced her outlook on life.

The essay tells the story of how Earley and her mother, unable to afford groceries from regular stores, had to resort to shopping at a Chevron gas station. Initially embarrassed by this unconventional method of grocery shopping, Earley eventually learns to appreciate the flexibility it symbolizes. She realizes that this adaptation is not a sign of failure, but a testament to her family’s resilience and ability to survive in the face of adversity.

The essay is insightful as it challenges traditional ideas of normalcy and success, highlighting the importance of adaptability when dealing with hardship.

Rice for Thanksgiving

“Rice for Thanksgiving” by Jocelyn Fong is an insightful essay that delves into the author’s multicultural identity, being of Asian and Anglo-American descent.

The narrative revolves around her unique Thanksgiving tradition of having rice and gravy, a representation of her blended Chinese and American heritage. Fong discusses the complexities of conforming to predefined ethnic categories and the fading of her Chinese heritage due to historical discrimination against Chinese immigrants. However, she ultimately embraces her mixed identity, seeing it as a symbol of progress and the multicultural nature of America.

The essay emphasizes that culture is not just about exotic foods or clothing, but is a unique aspect that everyone possesses and shapes in their own way.

Be Cool to the Pizza Dude

Be Cool to the Pizza Dude” by Sarah Adams is a thought-provoking essay that underscores the significance of kindness, humility, empathy, respect, and equality in our daily interactions, using the pizza delivery person as a metaphor.

The essay is insightful because it uses a simple, relatable scenario to impart deep life lessons. It reminds us that every interaction is an opportunity to exercise these virtues, contributing to a more empathetic and understanding society. Moreover, it underscores the interconnectedness of our actions and their potential to generate good karma.

Find a Good Frog

“Find a Good Frog” by Delia Motavalli is an essay that challenges the traditional notion of “happily ever after” often portrayed in fairy tales.

Motavalli shares a piece of advice from her mother: “Don’t spend your life looking for Prince Charming. Instead, find yourself a really good frog.” This metaphor encourages acceptance of imperfections and the reality that life isn’t always perfect.

The essay is insightful because it presents a realistic perspective on relationships and life, contrasting with the idealized versions often depicted in media. It emphasizes the importance of accepting flaws and imperfections in others, rather than seeking an unattainable perfection. This perspective encourages a healthier and more realistic approach to relationships and personal growth.

My Time and Place Among the Cows

“My Time and Place Among the Cows” by Dave Stewart is a reflective essay that explores the author’s deep connection with his cows and the natural world.

Stewart, a dairyman from New Hampshire, expresses his belief in his cows for their ability to convert sunshine into milk, and how they help him appreciate the slower rhythms of life. He discusses the symbiotic relationship he shares with his cows in maintaining the pastures and keeping the trees at bay.

The essay is insightful as it offers a unique perspective on the interplay between man, animal, and nature. It highlights the importance of appreciating the simple things in life and embracing responsibilities, whether it’s farm life or family life.

A Stack of Rocks

“A Stack of Rocks” by Ron Woolley is a poignant essay that explores the author’s unique way of memorializing his father, who had his ashes spread in the ocean.

Woolley honors his father by stacking stones at the seashore each time he goes for a swim. This act, though not permanent, symbolizes his enduring love for his father and keeps his memory alive.

The essay is insightful as it delves into themes of loss, remembrance, and the enduring bonds of love. It also prompts reflection on the impermanent nature of life and the lasting impact of our actions and relationships.

We Are Each Other’s Business

“We Are Each Other’s Business” by Eboo Patel is a compelling essay that emphasizes the importance of active interfaith support in addition to tolerance.

As an American Muslim, Patel advocates for pluralism, citing the Holy Quran’s message of diversity and mutual understanding. He argues that America provides the best opportunity to realize this vision of diverse nations and tribes coming to know one another.

The essay is insightful because it challenges readers to not only tolerate diversity but to actively engage with it, fostering a deeper understanding and respect among different faiths. This active engagement, Patel suggests, is the key to honoring diversity and making pluralism a reality.

I Believe in Singing “Happy Birthday to You”

Brian McDonald’s essay, “I Believe in Singing ‘Happy Birthday to You’”, explores the power of this ubiquitous song in fostering a sense of community and shared positivity.

McDonald argues that singing ‘Happy Birthday’, regardless of one’s vocal prowess, is a communal act that transcends judgment and fosters unity. He believes that this simple act, which releases positive endorphins, is a testament to our biological hard-wiring for group singalongs.

The essay is insightful as it highlights the profound impact of a seemingly trivial tradition on our sense of belonging and community.

The Real Me

“The Real Me” by Katherine Bowman is a thought-provoking essay about the author’s decision to not wear makeup, a choice that sets her apart from her peers.

Bowman, a high school student , believes that hiding one’s true self can do more harm than good. She shares her journey of self-discovery and the realization that she doesn’t need to conform to societal norms to gain acceptance.

The essay is insightful as it challenges the conventional notions of beauty and encourages authenticity. It underscores the importance of being true to oneself, a message that resonates in today’s society where people often feel pressured to present a certain image. Bowman’s perspective invites readers to question societal standards and to embrace their individuality.

Also see: How to Avoid Clichés on the College Essay

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52 Argumentative Essay Ideas that are Actually Interesting

What’s covered:, how to pick a good argumentative essay topic, elements of a strong argumentative essay, argumentative essay idea example topics.

Are you having writer’s block? Coming up with an essay topic can be the hardest part of the process. You have very likely encountered argumentative essay writing in high school and have been asked to write your own. If you’re having trouble finding a topic, we’ve created a list of 52 essay ideas to help jumpstart your brainstorming process! In addition, this post will cover strategies for picking a topic and how to make your argument a strong one. Ultimately, the goal is to convince your reader. 

An argumentative essay tasks the writer with presenting an assertion and bolstering that assertion with proper research. You’ll present the claim’s authenticity. This means that whatever argument you’re making must be empirically true! Writing an argumentative essay without any evidence will leave you stranded without any facts to back up your claim. When choosing your essay topic, begin by thinking about themes that have been researched before. Readers will be more engaged with an argument that is supported by data.

This isn’t to say that your argumentative essay topic has to be as well-known, like “Gravity: Does it Exist?” but it shouldn’t be so obscure that there isn’t ample evidence. Finding a topic with multiple sources confirming its validity will help you support your thesis throughout your essay. If upon review of these articles you begin to doubt their worth due to small sample sizes, biased funding sources, or scientific disintegrity, don’t be afraid to move on to a different topic. Your ultimate goal should be proving to your audience that your argument is true because the data supports it.

The hardest essays to write are the ones that you don’t care about. If you don’t care about your topic, why should someone else? Topics that are more personal to the reader are immediately more thoughtful and meaningful because the author’s passion shines through. If you are free to choose an argumentative essay topic, find a topic where the papers you read and cite are fun to read. It’s much easier to write when the passion is already inside of you!

However, you won’t always have the choice to pick your topic. You may receive an assignment to write an argumentative essay that you feel is boring. There is still value in writing an argumentative essay on a topic that may not be of interest to you. It will push you to study a new topic, and broaden your ability to write on a variety of topics. Getting good at proving a point thoroughly and effectively will help you to both understand different fields more completely and increase your comfort with scientific writing.

Convincing Thesis Statement

It’s important to remember the general essay structure: an introduction paragraph with a thesis statement, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. A strong thesis statement will set your essay up for success. What is it? A succinct, concise, and pithy sentence found in your first paragraph that summarizes your main point. Pour over this statement to ensure that you can set up your reader to understand your essay. You should also restate your thesis throughout your essay to keep your reader focused on your point.

Ample Research

A typical argumentative essay prompt may look like this: “What has been the most important invention of the 21st century? Support your claim with evidence.” This question is open-ended and gives you flexibility. But that also means it requires research to prove your point convincingly. The strongest essays weave scientific quotes and results into your writing. You can use recent articles, primary sources, or news sources. Maybe you even cite your own research. Remember, this process takes time, so be sure you set aside enough time to dive deep into your topic.

Clear Structure

If the reader can’t follow your argument, all your research could be for nothing! Structure is key to persuading your audience. Below are two common argumentative essay structures that you can use to organize your essays.

The Toulmin argument and the Rogerian argument each contain the four sections mentioned above but executes them in different ways. Be sure to familiarize yourself with both essay structures so that your essay is the most effective it can be.

The Toulmin argument has a straightforward presentation. You begin with your assertion, your thesis statement. You then list the evidence that supports your point and why these are valid sources. The bulk of your essay should be explaining how your sources support your claim. You then end your essay by acknowledging and discussing the problems or flaws that readers may find in your presentation. Then, you should list the solutions to these and alternative perspectives and prove your argument is stronger.

The Rogerian argument has a more complex structure. You begin with a discussion of what opposing sides do right and the validity of their arguments. This is effective because it allows you to piece apart your opponent’s argument. The next section contains your position on the questions. In this section, it is important to list problems with your opponent’s argument that your argument fixes. This way, your position feels much stronger. Your essay ends with suggesting a possible compromise between the two sides. A combination of the two sides could be the most effective solution.

• Is the death penalty effective?
• Is our election process fair?
• Is the electoral college outdated?
• Should we have lower taxes?
• How many Supreme Court Justices should there be?
• Should there be different term limits for elected officials?
• Should the drinking age be lowered?
• Does religion cause war?
• Should the country legalize marijuana?
• Should the country have tighter gun control laws?
• Should men get paternity leave?
• Should maternity leave be longer?
• Should smoking be banned?
• Should the government have a say in our diet?
• Should birth control be free?
• Should we increase access to condoms for teens?
• Should abortion be legal?
• Do school uniforms help educational attainment?
• Are kids better or worse students than they were ten years ago?
• Should students be allowed to cheat?
• Is school too long?
• Does school start too early?
• Are there benefits to attending a single-sex school?
• Is summer break still relevant?
• Is college too expensive?

Art / Culture

• How can you reform copyright law?
• What was the best decade for music?
• Do video games cause students to be more violent?
• Should content online be more harshly regulated?
• Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?
• Should schools ban books?
• How important is art education?
• Should music be taught in school?
• Are music-sharing services helpful to artists?
• What is the best way to teach science in a religious school?
• Should fracking be legal?
• Should parents be allowed to modify their unborn children?
• Should vaccinations be required for attending school?
• Are GMOs helpful or harmful?
• Are we too dependent on our phones?
• Should everyone have internet access?
• Should internet access be free?
• Should the police force be required to wear body cams?
• Should social media companies be allowed to collect data from their users?
• How has the internet impacted human society?
• Should self-driving cars be allowed on the streets?
• Should athletes be held to high moral standards?
• Are professional athletes paid too much?
• Should the U.S. have more professional sports teams?
• Should sports be separated by gender?
• Should college athletes be paid?
• What are the best ways to increase safety in sports?

Where to Get More Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

If you need more help brainstorming topics, especially those that are personalized to your interests, you can use CollegeVine’s free AI tutor, Ivy . Ivy can help you come up with original argumentative essay ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

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Hey guys, I'm trying to brainstorm some unique and creative ideas for my college essays. I want to stand out and make sure my application captures the attention of the admissions officers. Any suggestions on how I could approach this, or even any personal experiences you've had with writing unique essays?

Coming up with unique college essay ideas can seem challenging, but it's all about finding a way to make an ordinary experience extraordinary or sharing a new perspective on a common topic. Here are a few general tips and ideas that might help you get started:

1. Zoom in: Instead of writing about a broad, sweeping experience like a family vacation or a major life event, consider focusing on a small, significant moment within that experience. For example, you could write about a meaningful conversation you had with a stranger at a bus stop or an eye-opening moment during a community service project. These moments can reveal more about your personality, values, and thought process than a broad overview might.

2. Take a risk: Admissions officers read a lot of essays, so taking a chance with a unique format or unconventional topic could help you stand out. For instance, you could write a letter to your future self, or create a fictional conversation between you and a historical figure you admire. Just make sure your creative approach still allows you to showcase your personality and values, which is the primary goal of the essay.

3. Turn a cliché on its head: Pick a common essay topic and put a fresh spin on it. For example, if your essay is about overcoming a challenge, think about what specific aspect of that challenge sets you apart from others with a similar experience. Maybe you handled the challenge in an unconventional way, or it helped you develop an uncommon skill or perspective. By looking at the topic from a different angle, you can create a more engaging piece.

4. Combine passions: If you have two or more interests that may not seem related on the surface, try exploring their connection in your essay. Discussing how your diverse interests intersect can demonstrate your intellectual curiosity and highlight your unique perspective.

5. Reflect on growth: Instead of focusing on an achievement or milestone, you could center your essay on personal growth and self-discovery. This could involve discussing a challenging period in your life and explaining how you navigated it, or how your thought process and worldview have evolved over time. By reflecting on your personal development, you can showcase your resilience, adaptability, and overall growth as a person.

As you brainstorm, remember that the most important part of your essay is authentically sharing who you are and what matters to you. Don't feel pressured to find a completely original topic—instead, focus on presenting your authentic self in an engaging and thought-provoking manner. Good luck!

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CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

335 Unique Essay Topics for College Students [2024 Update]

The success of any college essay depends on the topic choice. If you want to impress your instructors, your essay needs to be interesting and unique. Don’t know what to write about? We are here to help you!

Our specialists will write a custom essay specially for you!

In this article by our Custom-Writing.org team, you will find 335 interesting essay topics for college students. We’ve also included some helpful tips on choosing a topic that will make your essay stand out.

• 🔝 Top 10 College Essay Topics
• 📋 How to Choose a Topic
• 🧑 Personal Essay Topics
• 🖌️ Descriptive Topics
• 🏺 Narrative Topics: History
• 🔮 Creative Writing Topics
• 🎓 Topics for Various Fields
• ✍️ Topics for Different Essay Types
• 🚫 Topics to Avoid

🔗 References

🔝 top 10 essay topics for college students, 📋 how to pick a college essay topic.

There is no universal advice on picking a great essay topic. However, the tips below will surely help you avoid choosing a mediocre one. Just follow these steps:

STEP #1: Start with brainstorming.

Relax and write down everything that comes to mind. It can be related to your personal life or areas of interest.

STEP#2: Use outside sources.

If you need additional inspiration, find a list of essay topic suggestions. Pick several options that appeal to you.

STEP#3: Select a topic.

Once you have your list of possible topics, do the following:

• Review the essay instructions or prompt, if you have one.
• Exclude ideas that are not suitable or compelling enough.
• Decide which of the remaining topics you want to write about. It might be the one you are interested in or understand best.

College Essay Topics: Fields & Disciplines

Now that you know how to choose a theme for your assignment, let’s examine this list of college essay ideas. These exceptional topics are arranged by subject, so you can go right to the section that interests you the most.

🧑 Personal Essay Topics for College

• Your perfect date.
• Settling an argument.
• What’s usually in your bag.
• Your most memorable purchase.
• What your upbringing was like.
• One quote that inspired you the most.
• What you do to make the world better.
• Where you want to spend your life.
• When the effort was worth the result.
• An unusual feeling you’ve experienced.
• A life-changing adventure. There are many ways to write about adventure in an essay . You can describe an interesting situation from your own life or one experienced by another individual, perhaps a famous figure.
• Positive and negative leadership examples. Typically, essays on leadership describe a specific person or a situation. A more interesting perspective on this subject is highlighting episodes of disastrous leadership. Some examples include the expansion of fascism after World War I or exploitation under European colonialism .
• Decision making. Both mundane and monumental, earth-shattering decisions make great essay topics. You can choose a situation and describe what the decision-maker did correctly or incorrectly.
• Deciding what to wear today. This might be the most mundane decision that everyone makes daily. However, just because it’s so ordinary, it might yield a fascinating college essay if explored thoughtfully.
• President Truman’s decision to drop atomic bombs on Japan. This decision may have been the most significant of human history. It marked the introduction of a technology that could annihilate the human race. This decision may have been the most significant of human history. It marked the introduction of a technology that could annihilate the human race.
• Purchasing decisions in the supermarket. Similarly, everyone decides what to eat several times every day. In an essay on this subject, focus on the most interesting factors influencing grocery shopping decisions.
• Picking a book to read. According to The Atlantic, an average modern American reads fewer books than at any earlier time in history. With this in mind, consider writing an essay on selecting a book to read. This is particularly interesting when you recognize that more books are being published nowadays than ever before.
• Childhood experiences as behavioral drives. An analysis of childhood experiences can help interpret individual character traits. Any challenge and achievement play a part in the formation of behavioral drives. You can discuss them in the context of one’s mental development .
• Parenting styles and motives. Everyone knows that the role of parents in children’s lives is crucial. For your essay, you can choose to evaluate specific approaches to interacting with a child. Obtain reliable data about a child’s habits and find correlations with social adaptation principles.
• Problem-solving skills in everyday life. Problem-solving skills allow a person to overcome challenges. You may assess these skills from your perspective. This essay can also highlight the traits that enable you to cope with difficulties.
• Negotiation skills and conflict resolution attainments. The ability to compromise is a valuable personal quality. It can be helpful in different areas of interpersonal communication. In your paper, analyze ways to enhance this skill for successful conflict resolution.
• Bill Gates’ initiative to create Microsoft and change the world. Thanks to Bill Gates , computer technologies became available to everyone. Assessing his career path can help identify specific components of success. What valuable lessons can we learn from him?

🖌️ Descriptive Essay Topics for College Students

• What your hometown is like.
• What you dislike about the Internet.
• If emotions were personified.
• How you experience art.
• Holiday season and nostalgia.
• Your personal teaching experience.
• How regular workout makes you feel.
• The impact of music on your body.
• National holidays in different countries.
• Traditions you observed around the world.
• Marriage: then and now. In bygone eras, most children were born within wedlock. In the contemporary world, fewer marriages take place than before. What are the reasons behind it?
• Pressure on women to marry. In the past, women were coerced into marriage more forcefully than men. Unfortunately, this tendency remains in many societies even today. You can choose this topic to investigate sexism in everyday life.
• Sports in your life. Everywhere in the world, fans fervently adore sports . It’s a spectacular subject for an essay, no matter if your tone is serious or lighthearted.
• Football : pros and cons. An essay about this popular American sport will surely spark your readers’ interest. For instance, you may explore the long-term health risks associated with concussions.
• Basketball as a global sport. After soccer, basketball is the most rapidly growing sport globally. Your basketball essay could delve into the geopolitical implications of this newly globalized sport.
• What is love ? It is the quintessential human emotion , and that’s why it’s a timeless topic for any writing assignment.
• Happiness and how to achieve it. Love and happiness go together, so it is no surprise that happiness is a fruitful writing topic . You can choose to concentrate on pursuing happiness, simply being happy, or anything else.
• The 19 th century origins of Christmas carols . You could write about the origins of Christmas carols, most of which date back to the 19 th century. Before that, Christmas songs were restricted to church hymns .
• Christmas carols around the world. Every country with a significant population of Christians celebrates Christmas uniquely, making the global diversity of Christmas carols one of the more interesting essay topics.
• Personal feelings evoked by Christmas carols. Once again, you can focus on your personal experience. Simply describe how Christmas carols make you feel. feel.

🏺 Narrative Essay Topics for College Students: History

• The life of Socrates.
• Nero and the Roman Empire.
• Everyday life of Puritans.
• Events of Mexican-American War.
• Life during the Great Depression.
• Women in Trojan War.
• The start of the Nuclear Age.
• Heroes of the Space Race.
• Pearl Harbor through the eyes of a witness.
• The fall of the Sumer civilization.
• Local heroes. You can write a fantastic college essay on a historical personality who is highly appraised in your state. What is this person’s contribution, and what makes them outstanding?
• Real-life villains. The Ivy League essays often include an analysis of notorious people’s deeds or personalities. You can write about Adolf Hitler, Joseph Stalin , Mao Zedong, Pol Pot, Josef Mengele, H. H. Holmes, Caligula, and many others.
• Influential people in any area. Your college essay can focus on some notable figures in politics, finance, science, literature, architecture, visual arts, music, sports, or pop culture.
• The most influential women. You can write about women who achieved a lot in the “men’s world.” Choose between Elizabeth I , Margaret Thatcher , Indira Gandhi, and many other renowned figures.
• Scientists who changed the world. You may write a great college essay about the contributions of Nikola Tesla, Charles Darwin , Thomas Edison , and other scientists. What areas of our lives have changed thanks to these people?
• Great conquerors and their power. Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan , Attila, and other commanders were outstanding people of their time. They expanded their territories thanks to successful military campaigns. Your essay may focus on one of these great conquerors.
• Hitler’s decision to unleash World War II . Adolph Hitler’s personality is often explored in academic works. Your paper can explore what prompted the German leader to popularize Nazism in Europe . Understanding it may help prevent the repetition of such events.
• Religious figures. Explore individuals who developed essential doctrines and spiritual teachings. Your essay may include the key ideas of people such as Thomas Aquinas and Joseph Smith Jr.
• Fighters for justice and equality. Democratic societies were significantly influenced by those who struggled for human rights. Freedom of people around the world was their primary goal. Your essay can assess the roles of Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, or Martin Luther King Jr .
• Voyagers and discoverers. Thanks to the great explorers of the past, the world as we know it today was shaped. You can write about Christopher Columbus , Ferdinand Magellan, and others in your paper.
• Roman emperors . Ancient Rome was the greatest civilization of its time. Throughout its history, individual emperors have contributed to its prosperity. Julius Caesar , Nero, and other rulers can be the focus of your essay.

🔮 Creative Writing Topics for College Students

• A conversation with yourself from the past.
• What would life be like on a rogue planet?
• If you were an ancient conqueror.
• A children’s fairy tale.
• What if there is no money in the world?
• A new perspective on a famous story.
• If you lived in another era.
• What are animals thinking?
• A perfect world as you see it.
• A horror story in the style of Kafka.
• Detective stories . Suspense is often the key to interesting essays. You can write a unique story about a murder in a castle, a theft in your college dorm, or fraud in a famous (or fictional) company.
• The world of your fantasy. Write an outstanding college essay that describes a brave new (or beautiful) world. Your dreams, books, films, or even news you’ve heard can be the source of your inspiration.
• Stream of consciousness . It can be the most straightforward task you have ever completed. Just write about your thought, dreams, and ideas. Whatever comes to your mind! Make sure to edit it afterward.

• Description of a dystopian world. Come up with a dystopian scenario to assess contemporary vices and problems. Use descriptive words to make your essay stand out.
• A new look at traditional values. For a creative essay, try rethinking traditional values. For instance, you may provide new perspectives on compassion, charity, respect, and other essential components of a civilized society.
• A short movie script. One of the ideas is to write a short film script on any topic. This task will allow you to showcase your storytelling skills .
• The future as you imagine it. You can pay particular attention to social issues and their development. Will the situation improve in the future?
• Reporter experience. Conduct an investigation and report your findings in a creative essay. This work may include interviews, illustrations, and the analysis of issues. This approach allows moving away from traditional forms of essay writing .
• On behalf of another person. Take an opportunity to explore an issue from someone else’s perspective. For instance, you can assess the difficulties faced by people of the opposite sex. It can help analyze the problems of interpersonal communication .

🎓 College Essay Topics for Various Fields

College life essay topics.

• Making a choice. You can write your college essay about making a decision. For example, how did you choose your college? Are you happy with your choice?
• Good and bad habits . Write about the patterns that affect your academic life. How can you get rid of the unproductive ones?
• Major challenges . In your college experience essay, you can describe the major issues you have faced during your school years. How did you handle them?
• Time-management practices. College studies are often stressful. That’s why multitasking is an important skill. In your essay, explore the topic of time management. Analyze the algorithms for competent task distribution.
• Memorable events. Did you ever have a life-changing experience? You can write a perfect college essay about it.
• University life: expectations vs. reality. You can also try to imagine your future and write an essay on your expectations related to university life .
• Interaction with classmates. An interesting topic for a college life essay is building relationships with classmates. It can be helpful to study the basics of teamwork. Conflict resolution practices are also important factors of interpersonal peer communication.
• Freshman experience. You can describe it in anecdotes or conduct some research. For instance, assess the challenges and barriers that first-year students face. Then, determine optimal mechanisms to overcome them.
• Teamwork and group activities. Describe appropriate ways to communicate with people in groups. Or, you can focus on the crucial features of effective teamwork .
• Research work experience. College education involves conducting many kinds of research. They refer to theoretical training and the practical study of subjects. In this regard, you can describe your personal research experience.
• The importance of self-education. Students often face the need to study some subjects on their own. Self-education and its aspects can be an exciting topic to explore. Focus on honing individual skills and overcoming academic challenges.
• A comparison of high school and college. For many high school students, the idea of college study is different from reality. You can describe the distinctions between the two levels of education. Give personal views on the learning process and common pitfalls.

Health Topics for College Students

• Healthy eating . In the wealthiest and poorest countries on Earth, healthy eating has very different meanings. Focusing on cultural variations of healthy eating has plenty of potential.
• Fast food and its popularity. People have never eaten so much fast food as they do now. Consider writing about this interesting trend and its health implications.
• Childhood obesity as a global health issue . Because of all the high-calorie foods available today, many children in industrialized countries have weight problems. This issue has some extraordinary potential for persuasive writing.
• The problem of alcoholism . Substance abuse problems such as alcoholism have been an exemplary subject of writing for a long time. You can contemplate the implications of this problem in your college essay.
• Teen pregnancy: risk factors . In many regions of the world, teen pregnancy rates are higher than ever . The phenomenon is often associated with poverty and lower levels of education.
• Smoking in public . Should it be outlawed? Is it a public health hazard or just fundamental liberty that the government is unjustified to control or even regulate?

• Why do people smoke ? All smokers have their initial justifications for starting to smoke, so perhaps use your essay to explore one or several reasons.
• Quitting smoking . Some people use tobacco substitutes like candies or even nicotine gum. Whatever the methods are, everyone struggles when trying to overcome an addiction.
• Smoking should be banned . This is an extremely strong stance, but these are often the most entertaining essays to write.
• Smoking and mood. Studying the linkage between smoking and mood is undeniably intriguing, especially if you smoke or know a smoker.
• Dangers of secondhand smoke . When a person smokes, nearby people also breathe in many of the toxins. You could write about the moral implications or the societal and health impacts of this phenomenon.
• Smoking and cancer. Everyone understands that tobacco use is linked to cancer, so attempt to take a novel perspective if you choose this topic.
• Smoking and cardiovascular disease. Long-term smoking has been linked to heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD.) Try to convince your reader of these very clear dangers in your essay.
• Peer pressure and tobacco use. The vast majority of smokers develop this habit at a young age because their friends or acquaintances are already smoking.
• Smoking in pop culture. In the past, movies and TV shows often depicted smoking. Your essay could explore how this pattern has evolved.
• Acquiring bad habits from family members. As pointed out by a famous public service announcement from the 1980s, addictions such as smoking can run in families. You could explain the implications of it.

Ideas for College Essay on Ethics and Society

• Abortion as a controversy . You could use this topic for an abortion debate essay. Rather than taking one position, try to do your best to present different perspectives.
• The case against abortion . In writing a pro-life essay , you need to offer various reasons to oppose abortion.
• The case for access to abortion. You may also consider a pro-choice essay . In this type of abortion persuasive essay, you need to emphasize the costs to individuals and society when women are denied access to abortions.
• Shoplifting and its consequences. Your essay could explore the motivation for this practice, methods of discouraging it, or even its implications to retail businesses. Maybe you can even detail a personal story about a friend who has shoplifted .
• Domestic violence in developed countries. Violence against women and children is frequent in all societies, so you can use your essay as an opportunity to explore domestic violence .
• Types of animal cruelty . Another woefully widespread form of abuse is animal cruelty. It can range from dog fights to factory farming and everything in-between.
• Capital punishment: pros and cons. The vast majority of governments have banned this barbaric practice. When judicial systems have the authority to take lives as punishment for crimes , there are profound social implications.
• Current events analysis. If you have difficulty picking a topic, open up a newspaper or go to your favorite news website . Your next essay can be on the first article you read that captures your attention.
• History of child labor . Under this subject, you could survey the decline of child labor over time. You might also want to consider atypical counterexamples of this trend.
• Child labor laws . Child labor doesn’t occur on a larger scale because it is banned by law. Take some time to research the effectiveness of these laws.
• Child labor across the world. In this essay, try to evaluate how child labor practices vary from one geographic region to another.
• Unemployment and child labor. Sometimes, there aren’t enough jobs even for the adults in a nation, not to mention children. Consider exploring why this happens.

Environmental Issues Essay Topics for College

• Local environmental issues . Success in college essay writing largely depends on one factor: you should pick a problem you are interested in or know a lot about. For example, describe what environmental issues you and your community face.
• The most urgent ecological problems. Burning issues such as pollution, deforestation , biodiversity loss , and scarcity of natural resources can jeopardize the existence of the human race if solutions are not found. You can come up with a perfect essay on any of these challenges.
• Solutions to environmental problems. Winning college essays often include describing and analyzing efficient or inefficient solutions. You can write about emissions restrictions , the use of renewable energy sources, and so on. Why are some solutions ineffective?
• Renewable energy. Solar energy, windmills, electric vehicles, and many other solutions are implemented every year, but environmental issues persist. Your essay can answer the following questions: Why is renewable energy underused? Why is the production of electric vehicles in its infancy, although it started at the beginning of the 20th century?
• Global and political perspectives on sustainability. Some countries, especially in Western Europe, are making significant progress in developing sustainable practices. However, some states focus on gaining economic well-being or supremacy, especially in the developing world. Will the US be one of the global polluters in the future?
• Global warming and how to stop it. This is an urgent contemporary issue that deserves particular attention. An essay on a climate catastrophe may prompt readers to discuss the problem. Describe the ways to avoid adverse consequences for nature and humanity.
• Water and air pollution. Write about the impact of pollution on individual spheres of life. For example, focus on the correlation between contamination and economy.
• The depletion of natural resources. Ecological issues are often connected with natural resources. They’re essential in industrialized societies. You can discuss the depletion of these resources in your college essay.
• The issues of waste disposal. Environmental activists are concerned about severe soil pollution . They also address the negative impact of landfills on ecology. All of this shows that waste disposal is an urgent issue. Study how much of a threat it poses for humanity.
• The dangers of animal extinction. Over the past few decades, many species have become endangered . You can review this problem as a consequence of industrial development.
• Deforestation’s consequences. This topic is closely related to the issue of mass extinction. Forests are a habitat for countless species of animals and plants. What adverse effects does deforestation entail?
• The economic impact of environmental problems. Focus on financial aspects and budget spending on pollution control . You can also highlight the importance of addressing challenges associated with climate change.

Topics for Funny College Essays

• Humorous stories and personal experiences. University essay writing can be enjoyable and even entertaining. Describe some of your adventures or make up a funny story for your assignment. Be creative !
• Interesting historical facts. You can find tons of funny stories if you dig deeper into history. Many entertaining events are well-documented. Choose one and write an essay about it.
• Funny and awkward situations. All students know what it’s like to be in an uncomfortable situation. Try to describe such an event in a comical way. It will allow you to look at it from a different perspective.
• Dealing with unexpected tests. Sometimes professors don’t warn their students about upcoming tests . Did it ever happen to you? You probably didn’t enjoy these experiences. Still, why not describe them in a humorous essay?
• Your personal teaching experience . This topic is suitable for student teachers. Have you tried teaching a whole classroom of noisy children? Successful or not, these experiences make great anecdotes.
• Excessive efforts. Some students put too much effort into education. Sometimes it pays off, and other times it’s all in vain. Does it sound familiar to you? Write an essay about it!
• Poor time management. Delays, late deadlines, and other time management catastrophes can form the basis of this essay.
• Jokes on classmates. Innocent pranks help maintain a friendly environment and even serve as team building . Describe the memories of such humorous situations in your essay.
• Your professors’ jokes. Not only students but also teachers are often inclined towards humor. Occasional jokes on their part can be a good essay topic for college. Such gags can contribute to maintaining interest in a learning environment .
• Least favorite lessons. Describe the most boring or unpleasant class you can remember in a humorous manner.
• Making friends with other students. Awkward and funny situations often accompany these experiences. They can serve as a topic for a great essay.
• Unexpected praise. It’s always a pleasure to receive unexpected recognition from teachers. It’s especially gratifying when you do something well by accident or without even trying. Did anything like that ever happen to you? Then write a short story about it!

Best College Essay Topics on Gender Issues

• Machismo: what is it? How was the term coined? What are areas of life negatively affected by this phenomenon? Think about sports, politics, or popular culture.
• Gender roles in modern societies. Many Harvard essays provide answers to the following questions. How are gender roles distributed in your country, community, family? What factors led to this distribution?
• Famous feminists. Explore the contributions of Lucrezia Marinella, Anne Bradstreet, Emmeline Pankhurst, Eleanor Roosevelt , Marlene Dietrich, Alice Walker, Hillary Clinton, Oprah Winfrey, and many other renowned women.
• Men’s views on gender. Writing a good college essay involves an analysis of different perspectives. It can be fascinating to examine men’s attitudes towards gender issues .
• Matriarchy as a social system. You can write about modern societies such as Bribri or Garo. Or, you can find examples of matriarchy in the past. What about Neolithic Ages or Bronze Age ?
• Biological differences between sexes. It can be an eye-opening experience to explore physical differences between men and women. Are they that different?
• Patriarchal society in today’s world. Assessing patriarchy as a trend can help identify key stereotypes and stigmas. How can we facilitate women empowerment ?
• Workplace gender discrimination . Even today, many women struggle to get promoted due to gender stereotypes. Biased attitudes are unacceptable in modern organizations. Where do they originate from, and what should be done about it?
• Conflicts between boys and girls at school. The foundations of interpersonal interaction are laid in a collective environment. Analyze students’ behavior patterns related to interactions between boys and girls. What are the most common causes of conflicts?
• Family violence from a gender perspective. Family violence is a grave social problem. In your paper, identify the underlying determinants of domestic abuse .
• The role of women in science . Assess the contribution of women scientists from different eras. You can focus on their specific achievements and auxiliary work. Both the humanities and the sciences are suitable for analysis.
• Individual duties in parenting. The roles of fathers and mothers in families are often separated. In your essay, analyze stereotypes and behavioral patterns related to parenthood. You can use specific variables such as the time spent with children.
• Women in male-dominated occupations. Assess the performance of women in positions usually occupied by men. You can study female CEOs, firefighters, or filmmakers. What are the career prospects for women in these fields?

Titles for College Essays on Diversity

• Cultural diversity’s importance . Many Stanford essays explore issues associated with cultural diversity and how it can affect individuals, workplaces, and societies.Many Stanford essays explore issues associated with cultural diversity and how it can affect individuals, workplaces, and societies.
• Ethnic diversity in different countries. The US is one of the most conventional examples of a melting pot. How do people of different cultural backgrounds co-exist there? What challenges do they face? How do they solve conflicts?
• Variety of religious beliefs. Religion is one of the most interesting subjects to write an essay on. You can concentrate on Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, and dozens of other religions. Scientology or Happy Science can also be excellent essay subjects.
• Diversity related to sexual identity . You can write an outstanding argumentative essay on same-sex marriages or the inclusion of issues such as transgender identity in the K-12 curriculum.
• Personal contribution to diversity development. Address the promotion of diversity as an important social phenomenon. Your essay will raise awareness of this practice.
• Children’s and adults’ views on diversity and ethnicity. This essay can highlight crucial aspects of interpersonal communication. You can pose questions from a child’s perspective. Do other people’s ethnic backgrounds play an essential role for children compared to adults?
• Cross-cultural management in modern organizations. Leaders of various companies promote this valuable practice. It’s highly relevant in today’s business environment. The trend of globalization is one of its crucial factors.
• Gender diversity in the management field. Issues related to the distribution of leadership roles are often discussed in the context of gender. In your paper, evaluate the perception of male and female managers. This analysis may reveal the existing trends and views on the issue of diversity .
• Gender diversity from a criminological perspective . You can evaluate the current situation in the legal field. Assess offenses committed by people of different genders. The proportion of female prisoners, the severity of crimes, and other essential aspects can be used as criteria for comparison. This work may help assess potential bias.
• Gender diversity in the army. Attitudes towards women in military service are interesting to discuss. In an essay, you can present distinctive opinions. Mention the importance of involving people of all genders.

Short Essay Topics for College

• Teenagers’ concerns . You can write a simple essay on the appropriate age to vote or the proper age to buy alcohol. You may also want to examine major reasons for misunderstanding between teenage children and their parents.
• Best something ever. An excellent way to start a college essay is to write about something you admire, such as your favorite movie. What can you learn from it?
• Someone inspirational. For example, why not write an essay about your favorite teacher? How did this person change your life?
• Political issues in the US. Many short college essays are concerned with political life. You can write a winning essay about Electoral College or the flaws in the US voting system.
• An abstract concept. You can define an idea in your short essay. For instance, write about consumerism and the existing definitions of this term. Which one is the most appropriate? Why?
• Modern social values . The topic refers to the shift in moral values. For example, you can discuss the roles of wealth and personal beliefs. Compare them with the values of past eras to highlight the changes.
• Contemporary addictions and methods to deal with them. Explore excessive smartphone use, gaming , and other new addictions. Include the ways of dealing with these problems.
• A management theory overview. This paper can summarize individual findings related to management. Alternatively, you can present one of the theories of business development.
• Proposal of a legal act. This topic is perfect for a law essay. For example, discuss the document’s purpose, stakeholders , and industry-specific implications. The intersection with other regulations is optional.
• A geographic location. A short essay format is convenient for a description of a specific place. You can start by providing the basic facts about it. Include its population, area, resources, and several other parameters.
• Definition of an economic term. In this short essay, analyze a term of your choice. For instance, discuss inflation , capital, clearing, or any other definition. Explain the term you’ve chosen in simple words.
• A science to study. Choosing a science to learn is a potentially daunting task. In your essay, assess any field of study you like. Describe their benefits and pitfalls. You can also mention career prospects.

Great College Essay Ideas in Visual Arts

• Historical periods in art. Your paper can dwell upon a specific era. Why did the Renaissance occur? What are the central peculiarities of Postmodernism ?
• Artists and their personalities. Countless Cornell essays on art provide insight into artists’ legacy. Your essay writing can become a fascinating process if you focus on Leonardo, Paul Gauguin, Claude Monet, Andy Warhol , Artemisia Gentileschi , or Barbara Kruger.
• Prospects of artistic forms. You can use your imagination and think of the world in the 2100s. Try to predict the movements that will become popular in 100 years.
• Masterpieces. Essay writing practice is associated with the ability to narrow topics down. You can choose a specific work for your analysis from the following list: The Birth of Venice , The Scream , Starry Night , and Girl with a Pearl Earring .
• Different genres and styles in visual art . Many distinctive genres characterize visual arts. They differ in style, period, and other aspects. In your essay, you can describe impressionism, surrealism , cubism, abstract art, and other genres.
• Mediums in visual arts. Every art form is distinguished by the use of materials. Explore the peculiarities of oil paintings, prints, or watercolors.
• Art galleries to visit around the world. You may want to choose one art gallery and describe its history. Your essay will be even more interesting if you add the descriptions of the most famous artworks found in the museum.
• How auction houses work. Numerous art pieces and collectibles are sold at auctions. One of the world’s most famous auction houses is Sotheby’s. In your paper, present the workings of an auction of your choice. Add individual examples of profitable deals from its history.
• The most expensive art objects . The cost of many classical paintings is enormous. The prices are usually estimated by qualified experts. Explore this topic in your essay and include information on the most expensive art objects.
• The comparison of classical and contemporary art forms. Art is a dynamic environment that is constantly evolving. New genres and forms of expression appear regularly. In your paper, compare classical canvases with modern means of creative expression such as graffiti . What influences the emergence of new art forms?
• Rescued artworks and their history. History knows examples of great artworks that were found centuries after their disappearance. Your essay can study several art objects saved during wars.

Conspiracy-Related College Essay Topics That Stand Out

• Space exploration . If your essay requirements concerning the topic are not too strict, you can try to answer some of the following questions. Did “a giant leap for mankind” really occur? Why was the Moon project shut down? Is there life on Mars ?
• Wealth distribution. An excellent essay for college students can focus on the allocation of resources. Is there a league of people who own or control all the resources ? How did the world’s wealthiest people earn their money?
• Secret societies of the past and present. Does the Illuminati exist? Can such a secret society persist in the modern world?
• Catastrophes and reasons behind them. Why did Titanic drown? Was the curse of the Pharaoh real? Was the Chernobyl nuclear disaster an accident , or was it an unsuccessful experiment of KGB?
• JFK’s assassination . Who killed the most loved president? Why was the investigation so inadequate? Were any other countries’ agents involved?
• Aliens among us. Does Area 51 exist? What do governments hide? With questions like these, essay writing for college students can be exciting!
• Did Adolf Hitler escape after World War II? One of the most mysterious conspiracy theories is the possible escape of Adolf Hitler. Some people believe that the Nazi leader moved to Argentina after World War II . Your essay may discuss whether his suicide was staged.
• Is HIV an experimental biological weapon against humanity? The end of the 20th century was a difficult time. During this period, a suspicion arose that HIV was a biological weapon. Pharmaceutical companies and governments were blamed for this. What caused this conspiracy?
• Did Elvis Presley fake his death? Elvis Presley , the idol of millions, passed away long ago. However, many fans don’t believe in this outcome. A conspiracy theory was born that the musician faked his death. You can explore its implications and determine what it says about American pop culture.
• 5G cell towers exposure and accusations against Bill Gates . Explore the public fears related to the potential exposure to 5G cell towers. Include the experts’ opinions and assess the role of Bill Gates as one of the promoters of fast Internet.
• Flat Earth theory and its followers. In recent years, many flat Earth proponents have emerged worldwide. In your essay, compare their arguments with officially existing data. Why is this conspiracy so widespread?
• COVID-19 conspiracy theory. Certain groups of people doubt the threat of the pandemic. They believe that the coronavirus is a fictional problem. Your essay might focus on the evidence for the virus’s existence.

Other College Essay Topics

• Personal reasons to become a nurse
• US women’s rights movements in 1850-1900
• The importance of the “knowledge utilization” concept
• Ethical responsibilities to children
• Work-life balance in employed women
• The environmental impacts of the food and hospitality industry
• Personal time management challenges
• Conspiracy theories and distrust of experts
• Brazilian business from personal experience
• Panathenaic festival: personal experience
• Social stratification in the United States
• Leadership and personal philosophy of management
• Trends in atmospheric carbon concentration over 150 years
• How business organizations value diversity
• Personal experience: how being bullied shaped me
• Automation of insurance industry: personal reflection
• Environmental trends showing improvement
• Food processor description and how to use it
• Catharanthus roseus: description and its benefits
• Racial identity based on personal experiences
• Tap dance: history and personal attitude
• How educational institutions value diversity
• National Association of Social Workers code of ethics
• Continental mountain ranges and ocean lifecycle
• Personal experiences and social imagination
• Personal ethical framework – decision-making
• Creating personal business plan
• Sustainability and waste management
• Gun violence as the social justice issue
• Ethical theory and personal morals
• Reducing emissions of carbon dioxide and other gases
• Arts and crafts movement in Melbourne
• Energy management and nuclear power plants development
• A personal code of ethics
• What’s significant about Mesopotamia geography?
• Personal budget planning: saving, investing, and donating
• Intersectionality of personal identities
• “Not so new” New World Order. Conspiracy theories
• Picture exchange communication system research
• Urbanisation impact on streams and rivers
• Savoring and flow in personal experience
• Personal leadership portrait: leadership reflections
• Researching of personal health recorder
• The notion of race through the prism of personal experience
• Students’ life in college: classes, exams, courses
• Spatial and social mobility: barriers and restrictions
• Air quality and pollution: solution measures
• Why understanding personal biases is important
• Human condition to adapt: factors
• Project management process description
• Criminal justice and workforce diversity
• The art style of Mueller analysis
• Quality measures description
• Haiti and Japan’s earthquake comparative analysis
• Ethical relativism and freedom of speech
• Common patterns of social behaviors
• Racial discrimination regarding attraction and romance
• Theory of caritative caring by K. Eriksson: description and main concepts
• Unfair treatment experience based on cultural diversity
• Madeline Leininger’s theory of culture care diversity and universality
• DNA fingerprinting technology: description and use
• Gloucester City community description
• Violence against queer community and construction of gender
• American nation’s changes after the Civil Rights Movement
• Positive things to learn from Medieval culture
• Racial tensions and immigration in California
• Solar energy: advantages and disadvantages
• The Salem Witch Trials history
• Nuclear accidents danger analysis
• Risk, expatiating on its types, classifications and methods of control
• The impact of individualism, ethnic nationalism, and class rule on society
• Television, movies, and games’ relationships with culture
• Catastrophic organizational failure in examples
• Thermal power generating plant – impact
• Racial inequality, immigration, and healthcare in the US
• Scenario investigation of waste management in Australia
• Environmental science: main principles
• The important steps that are involved in the processing of images
• COVID-19 conspiracy: critical thinking
• Climate disruption: understanding the problem and its significance

✍️ Topics for Different College Essay Types

Below you’ll find writing prompts for problem solution, cause and effect, and definition essays. There’s also a section with personal statement essay topics. Check them out!

• In a problem-solution essay , you need to introduce an issue and suggest several ways to fight it. Usually, each body paragraph describes a different solution. This essay aims to convince the audience that these scenarios are the best ways to eliminate the problem.
• In a cause and effect essay , you need to discuss a problem, its reasons, and possible consequences. It’s better to pay attention to topics that involve multiple studies of the issue (you can read our cause and effect essay guide to learn more.)
• In a definition essay , you need to explain a term, concept, or idea. Sometimes a definition is only a part of a more extensive research paper. It’s crucial to study the topic from different perspectives to provide an extended definition. Before you start working on your essay, make sure that the meaning of the word you’ve chosen is not too simple.
• In a personal statement , you write about yourself. Writing a personal statement or a transfer essay is crucial when applying to college. How do you make it a winning paper? Read our personal statement guide .

Problem Solution Essay Topics for College Students

• How can students contribute to educational system changes in the United States? Discuss student communities and their impact on college life. Do students need to have more power and control over changes in the educational system?
• Ensuring access to clean water in developing African countries. Describe the achievements of charities that aim to help countries such as Ethiopia . You may also write about the costs of technologies that filter water. What are the possible solutions with a limited budget?
• How can you help make energy cleaner? Try to think about what you can do on campus that will enable clean energy access. Decide whether it should be a part of your curriculum.
• Ways of reducing plastic waste in oceans. Research the current efforts of environmental organizations and big businesses. Then, evaluate them and find the best solution.
• Healthy eating habits among children. Think about the right age to start educating children on healthy eating . Find several possible ways to develop the proper habits without forcing children.
• How can students address sustainability and climate change? Describe your participation in ecological projects, communities, etc. You can also discuss the possible things you and other students can do without spending too much time and money.
• Ways of stopping healthcare rising costs in the United States. Highlight the current problems of the healthcare model . What measures does the government take to solve them? Try to find the best way to optimize the resources.
• Psychological support for children who suffered from violence. Research the techniques specialists use when working with children. What do you find more preferable: therapy or medication ? Suggest how we can protect children from further offenses.
• How can we provide equal chances to children who want to receive an education? For this essay, find as much information as possible about financial aid , including grants, loans, and other projects. What’s the best way to make education accessible to everyone?
• Reducing homelessness in the United States. Study the factors that make people homeless and what the government does to fight it. Then try to come up with an action plan.

Cause and Effect Essay Topics for College Students

• The effects of regular alcohol consumption on women’s health. Everyone knows that excessive alcohol consumption has highly adverse effects. In your essay, you can discuss the causes of alcoholism in women. Try to find specific information about diseases, psychological problems, and lifestyle changes related to them.
• What causes bullying among preschool children? Children might get violent due to many factors. Describe what beliefs and behavioral patterns influence their actions at preschool age.
• What are the economic effects of the 2020 lockdown ? Write about the changes in the labor market, remote jobs, and new opportunities. How did small businesses manage to survive in extreme circumstances?
• Lack of education in African countries: causes and effects. Discuss why children in some African countries don’t have access to education. Then, explain how it affects labor markets and economies. Make sure to choose only one country as a research subject.
• What will be the effects of implementing higher taxes on tobacco ? Will it inspire people to quit smoking or buy fewer tobacco products? Study the previous cases of such measures and predict the outcomes.
• How does social media affect communication in families? For this essay, research the impact of social media on family relationships. Do social media users communicate more or less with their closest relatives? on family relationships. Do social media users communicate more or less with their closest relatives?
• The causes and effects of glacier melting . Global warming, ozone depletion, and many other factors contribute to this process. Discuss how this issue influences people and animals.
• What would happen if everyone started using electric cars? Study the benefits and drawbacks of electric vehicles . You might discuss the CO2 emissions and safety.
• What are the effects of animal hunting in the United States. We can call hunting a hobby, a sport, and even an illegal activity. In your essay, describe the current laws and why people want to hunt. How do these activities influence animals’ populations?
• The causes and effects of chemical pollution in China. China is the biggest manufacturer of goods in the world. However, the waste that the factories produce becomes dangerous for its ecology. In your essay, research how chemical pollution affects the everyday life and health of the Chinese people.

Definition Essay Topics for College

• Behaviorism in psychology and philosophy. Consider writing your essay on behaviorism as a psychological movement at the beginning of the 20 th century. Additionally, you can provide a broader definition by researching behaviorism in philosophy. century. Additionally, you can provide a broader definition by researching behaviorism in philosophy.
• How can we define egoism ? People interpret human behavior and character traits in different ways. Someone who seems to be an egoist to you can seem like someone with a sense of self-worth to another person. You can provide your own viewpoint on this issue.
• What is the definition of evil ? Some people believe in eternal evil , while others see evil even in the littlest bad things that happen to them. In your opinion, what makes someone or something evil?
• Does the term “commodification” only apply to goods? In the modern world, everything has value. Discuss the moral aspects of commodification and the limits of its application.
• What is your definition of the word “endurance” ? You can compare the physical abilities of athletes and non-athletes. Don’t forget to mention mental stamina that involves dealing with psychological pressure and overcoming difficulties.
• Does the word “ambition” have a positive or negative meaning? Naturally, you can’t give a single answer to this question. Instead, you can discuss both sides of this concept in your paper.
• How can you define the word “dualism”? Describe all the meanings of the word “ dualism ” in philosophy and daily life. Don’t forget to provide your understanding of the concept. You may also explain why this term is controversial.
• What does the word “identity” make you think of? Cover all the meanings of this word. Begin with a set of qualities that defines a person. Also, you may include a psychological interpretation of the term.
• What is your interpretation of the word “justice”? Discuss the legal definition of this concept. Also, you can write about the moral aspects and the subjective meaning of the term. Describe how justice is related to rewards and punishments and its place in the modern world.
• What are your thoughts about realism ? This term is used in many disciplines. For example, it’s prominent in literature and art. In your essay, you may describe realism as a philosophical concept and its different forms and perceptions.

Themes for Your Personal Statement Essay

• Your academic credentials. When writing about your academic achievements , it is appropriate to mention the major things like your degree or courses you’ve had. It’s better to focus on the moral lessons you’ve learned rather than your grades and certificates.
• Your personality traits. A successful acceptance essay will reveal your character. Admission officers want to know who the applicants are. Every university has its specific culture, so they should make sure you can fit in.
• An event that changed your life. Of course, your college entry essay can’t be just an enumeration of character traits. Describe some circumstances where your personal qualities manifested themselves. Again, it’s best to focus on the lessons you’ve learned!
• Commitment as your character trait. Your college admittance essay should also show your dedication. Why do you want to study there? Why do you want to take the course you’ve chosen? What are you ready to do for your alma mater?
• Humor in your life. Even Harvard personal statement essays are often characterized by humor. Write about your failures in a funny way, and admission officers will see your ability to stand up and fight.
• Academic goals and ways to achieve them. Choosing a field to study is a responsible step. You can describe this process in a personal statement . Justify your choice and mention the academic skills necessary for this particular field.
• Creative writing . When applying to a course in English, it can be effective to write a poem rather than a typical description of your educational background.
• Views on society and contemporary values. You can impress the committee by discussing your opinions. One convenient approach is to focus on modern society and its values. Analyze the foundations of a particular cultural environment and assess interaction gaps.
• Professional objectives you want to achieve. Without mentioning professional goals, a personal statement will be incomplete. One effective strategy is to evaluate the desired prospects you want to achieve. They can be related to education as well as work. Pay attention to relevant resources needed to acquire optimal skills.
• Cultural background from an ethnic perspective. A personal statement can be focused not only on your academic experience but also on your cultural background . Include the basic facts about your ethnicity, parents, beliefs, family values, and other information. This way, you’ll present yourself comprehensively and impartially.
• Self-evaluation over time: personal strengths and skills. Both short- and long-term perspectives are worth mentioning. Assessing individual development and career growth can provide you with a helpful timeline.

🚫 College Essay Topics to Avoid

When it comes to college essays, some topics might produce a wrong impression or offend your audience. That is why you need to know what kind of content is not suitable for your academic writing.

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Here are the most common examples of the topics that you should avoid:

• Your personal life. Better leave the stories about your breakups aside. For a successful application essay, you can focus on the other areas of your life. Try to choose a topic that will show how well you are suited for the college.
• Inappropriate humor. Provocative, mean, or cruel jokes are not suitable for college essays. Your audience probably won’t consider such humor clever or funny. If you are unsure if a joke fits your task, don’t hesitate to ask your professor.
• Tragic stories. This trope is critical to avoid when writing essays about yourself. It’s okay to mention tragic events, but it’s best to avoid making a pessimistic narrative out of your paper. Instead, you can describe such occurrences as challenges to overcome and focus on the positives.
• Sensitive or controversial topics. Avoid them if you know that they may offend your readers. Politics, religion, abortions, and cruelty are not the best topics for college essays. If your assignment requires writing an essay on one of those topics, make sure you don’t make bold statements or provoke your audience.
• Cliché topics. It’s better to avoid writing about your academic achievements, volunteering, or winning a sports competition. Admissions officers and professors have read similar essays thousands of times.
• Overly narrow topics . It’s good to choose a topic that stands out because it’s not cliché. However, it becomes harder to find enough relevant information if it’s too obscure or limited. Choose a topic like this only if you are sure you will have enough data to research.
• Insulting someone. Offensiveness is a wrong approach to your assignment that creates a negative impression. It’s crucial to stay objective and professional when it comes to academic writing.
• Fancy words. Avoid overcomplicating your essay’s title and its contents. It’s also not a great idea to begin your essay with a trite quote. Instead, it’s best to prioritize logic and clear structure during writing.
• Vague topics . It will likely make your essay lack a focus, which will come off as unprofessional. Make sure to always narrow your topic down to a particular issue.
• Untrue and unrealistic topics. It might be interesting to fantasize about impossible scenarios and get creative. Still, remember that you need to support your statements with solid evidence. It’s much harder to do when you deal with unrealistic topics.

We hope these college essay topics helped you make a great choice. If you need more proposal argument essay topics, feel free to use our topic generator . Let us know in the comments what topic you’ve chosen!

This might be interesting for you:

• College Essay Writing 101—the Comprehensive Guide
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✏️ College Essay Topic FAQ

Think about something that makes you genuinely interested. You will need to research the subject. So if you are bored from the outset, you won’t be able to do a good job and impress your readers.

A good topic doesn’t have to be very serious. It means that the subject under study should fascinate you. Then you would be able to make it enjoyable for others, too. Study something connected with your hobby, favorite author, or even a country.

To choose a good topic, you need to think about your assignment. Different issues are appropriate for argumentative, persuasive, and other types of essays. The main thing is that the subject should interest you. Your essay would be more exciting for the readers if you have fun writing it.

If you are lucky enough to choose a topic for yourself, you can have fun writing the essay. Don’t waste this opportunity! To figure out the best subject, think about your favorite things. If you want to share something with others, write an essay about it.

• Writing Tips: Thesis Statements: Writers Workshop, The Center for Writing Studies, Illinois
• Essay Introductions: UMGC, the University System of Maryland
• How to Read an Assignment: William C. Rice, for the Writing Center at Harvard University
• Thesis Statements: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Essay Writing: University of Wollongong
• How to Write High-Quality Papers and Essays More Quickly: Ransom Patterson, College Info Geek
• Essay Tips from Andrew K. Strickler, Dean of Admission and Financial Aid: Connecticut College
• Essays that Worked: Hamilton College
• Popular Application Essay Topics: The Princeton Review
• Women’s Health Topics: US Food & Drug Administration
• Essay Topics: Yale College Undergraduate Admissions
• Essay Topics and Tips: College of Arts and Sciences, Lewis & Clark
• Essay Prompts: Seattle Pacific University
• Essay Questions, Undergraduate Admissions: University of Michigan
• Writing the College Essay: Babson College
• The Essay: NYS Higher Education Services Corporation
• Over 1,000 Writing Prompts for Students: The New York Times
• How to Write a College Essay: Sofia Tokar, Southern New Hampshire University
• Personal Essay Topics and Prompts: ThoughtCo
• Who’s the Most Significant Historical Figure?: The Guardian
• The Dos and Don’ts of Campus Life: CollegeXpress
• Climate Change: National Geographic
• 4 Types of Parenting Styles and Their Effect on Kids: Very Well Family
• Campus Life: What to Expect: My Future
• Gender Equality and Women Empowerment: United Nations
• 100 Creative Writing Prompts for Writers: Writer’s Digest
• 13 Benefits and Challenges of Cultural Diversity at Workplace: Hult International Business School
• 7 Benefits of Gender Diversity at Workplace: Workplace.com
• Artists: The Art History
• Art Movements: Artyfactory
• 36 of the Most Popular Conspiracy Theories in the US: Insider
• Personal Statements: University of Connecticut
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Social studies is an integrated research field. It includes a range of topics on social science and humanities, such as history, culture, geography, sociology, education, etc. A social studies essay might be assigned to any middle school, high school, or college student. It might seem like a daunting task, but...

If you are about to go into the world of graduate school, then one of the first things you need to do is choose from all the possible dissertation topics available to you. This is no small task. You are likely to spend many years researching your Master’s or Ph.D....

Looking for a good argumentative essay topic? In need of a persuasive idea for a research paper? You’ve found the right page! Academic writing is never easy, whether it is for middle school or college. That’s why there are numerous educational materials on composing an argumentative and persuasive essay, for...

Persuasive speech is the art of convincing the audience to understand and trust your opinion. Are you ready to persuade someone in your view? Our list of sports persuasive speech topics will help you find a position to take and defend. If you need more options quick, apart from contents...

When you look for a good research paper topic, you can easily become the severest critic of any proposed idea. Some topics do not interest you at the very least, while others might shock your teachers. Where is the golden mean? Check out this list of top 100 research paper...

Can there possibly be anything fun about academic writing? It seems there is – what are all those fun persuasive speech topics then for, after all? However, creating a bunch of good topics might seem hard the first time around. No need to worry though – there’s always plenty of...

A persuasive speech on any topic is a performance designed to convince people about something and prove your point. Choosing a suitable topic is crucial for your speech’s success. Do you need some help with finding easy topics for a persuasive speech? Then check these fantastic and easy ideas from...

Do you know the secret place where people go to get their good informative speech topics? Looking for an interesting topic for speech? Congratulations, because you’ve just found it! So, if you’re ready to get some really good topics for an informative speech, all you need to do is to...

A proposal argument is an essay in which you describe a specific issue that needs fixing. It focuses on problem solutions. Are you interested in writing high-quality proposal essays? Or maybe you’re wondering what can make your writing truly outstanding? Here you will find answers to these questions as well...

Sometimes you just wish there was a marketplace with vendors shouting, “Topics for argument essays! Who wants inspirational topics to write about?” Well, you are lucky enough: you’ll find plenty of inspiring things here! Coming up with some argument essay topics is quite easy! In this article, you’ll find some...

Are you searching for original, thought-provoking, and really controversial debate topics? Here they are! Selecting any of these 25 controversial topics for debate from Custom-writing.org, you can guarantee a heated dispute in class or exciting polemics with your friends. But first, let’s figure it out, what is debate and how you should pick up great...

Perhaps, each person has unforgettable memories of school life. It might be their first day when everything seemed to be exciting and unknown. Or it might be some picnic or trip when they spent a great day outside with their classmates. Writing a high school experience essay requires you to...

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10 College Admissions Essay Ideas to Inspire You

With summer upon us, rising high school seniors have to think about college applications and the dreaded essays.

Many colleges require at least one short essay about yourself to showcase your writing abilities and to see your unique, individual personality.

Most essays require a range of 250–650 words, but it varies between each college. Some colleges also have you choose your own topic, while others have you select one (or more) from a list.

Whatever the case, these college application essay topics are based on the Common App essay topics from previous years, so it’s possible you could find one close enough to a selected topic to use for your essay!

#1: Your meaningful background

A classic college essay, this idea gives you a broad prompt where you can choose something from your own life (a background, interest, talent, etc.) that you think your application would be incomplete without.

At first, it may be hard to think of something to write about. Or, you may have a perfect idea; for example, you’re very passionate about something like writing or being part of a sports team. If you have a hobby that you think defines you as a person when you express it, this is the perfect place to put that!

College application overseers aren’t just looking for high marks – they’re often looking for unique personalities or people with passion and drive that they think would be a good addition to their school.

#2: A time you faced a challenge

Another classic college application essay, but sometimes one of the hardest ones to write, this idea is to write about a challenge, obstacle, or failure you’ve faced. This one is a good chance to show what sort of person you are, and how you overcame (or coped) with something bad that happened.

Most people tend to think of specific incidents, like when you had a project due and your group wasn’t doing their work so you had to lead the team or do it yourself. This could work, but like the first idea, you want to make sure whatever you’re writing about shows who you are as a person.

The challenge doesn’t have to be academic-related. You could write about any challenge, obstacle, or failure you’ve experienced in your life. Maybe it was work-related, or it was had to do with something going on at home or with friends.

When I applied for college, I wrote about dealing with discrimination in my workplace at the time. It was something that, although many people unfortunately have to experience and overcome, I could write with my own perspective and show the college what I did about it.

Of course, you don’t have to write that seriously. Sometimes a minor setback is all you need, as long as you can show how you  handled it.

#3: Questioning your beliefs

This topic isn’t quite as common in my experience but is one of the best chances to talk about you as a person. This idea is to write about a time you questioned your belief in something and how you dealt with that. It can be something religious or political, or even a time when your peers were challenging you.

It doesn’t matter whether you ended up changing your views or not; what this topic does is it gives you a chance to show how you thought something through and made a choice accordingly.

One of the most personal struggles there is is to have your beliefs challenged, so how you were able to process that and make a change or stand in your resolve can tell a college a lot about who you are.

#4: A problem you solved (or would like to solve)

This topic is similar to the second one but differs in that it’s a bit more open-ended. The idea is to write about a problem in your life (or even in the world) that you’ve solved or would like to solve.

The scale on this problem can be as big or small as you would like, so there are lots of opportunities to write about something meaningful to you.

If you’re writing about something in your life, you could focus on an ongoing issue and how you want to solve it. Whether that’s something going on at school or at home, everybody has struggles, and your own voice can shine when you bring your story into it.

Alternatively, you could write about something much larger in scale, like an issue with society or current events. However, something that does relate to you in some way will let your passion for the issue shine through, which is more appealing to colleges.

#5: Describe an accomplishment (and how you grew from it)

This topic is all about describing a time you achieved or won something, preferably something you worked hard for. It may be tricky for some people who don’t consider themselves to have achieved much (I only ever won participation trophies through high school), but the emphasis here is how you grew from the accomplishment.

There are lots of options for what to write here, like winning an award in sports or completing a difficult assignment, but what colleges are looking for is how you grew from that achievement.

For example, a sports award likely entailed a lot of hard work, so you could discuss how you put in that work and how it changed your mindset on perseverance.

#6: Be a nerd about something

This was my personal favorite topic to use when writing my essays. Just be a nerd about something!

Write about what captivates you and what you’re so interested in you just can’t get away from it. If you’re a nerd, this is absolutely your time to shine. (This isn’t just for sci-fi or academic nerds; it could be about sports, animals, or anything you’re truly interested in!)

What colleges are looking for from this is to see a focused passion and drive from you. The important thing here is that while you get to discuss something you love, you want to remain calm and collected enough that the college sees you can rationally discuss it and why it’s so important to you. It’s a great way for your personality to come through your writing!

#7: What moment did you go from child to adult?

This is a much more specific question than the other topics, and it may not relate to you. It’s perfectly okay to not have a specific moment that transitioned you from childhood to adulthood, so it’s best to skip this topic if not.

If you can think of a specific event or moment of your life when you were faced with the real world, this is the place to write about it. It’s similar to topics two and four, but this is specifically for what thing triggered you to mature.

This could be a hard subject for some, but it offers a great perspective into your life and gives you a chance to write about how you grew from the event into who you are now.

#8: Describe a choice made in a book or movie; what did you think about it?

This is more analytical than the other topics as you’re writing about what you thought of a choice made by a character in a book or a movie. But, it offers the perfect opportunity to show your logic and reasoning skills to the college!

For example, The Hunger Games (which is widely chosen for essay topics and I would recommend choosing something else unless you have a unique perspective) has many difficult decisions that the characters must face.

Katniss makes the decision to take her sister’s place in the Hunger Games, and that sparks the entire story. If this was your topic, you could write about why you think Katniss made that choice.

The point is to show the college you can think rationally and logically and that you can analyze something for a deeper meaning.

#9: What’s your life goal?

This topic is very open-ended and there is a wide range of things you could write about. You could discuss anything from emotional goals to physical goals including your dream career.

As always, colleges are looking for essays that showcase your personality, and your life goal is one of the most personal things there is.

#10: Choose a past essay

Some colleges let you choose a past essay you’ve written that you believe showcases your writing ability and voice regardless of topic. It’s quite possible your high school had you write practice essays for college applications, and something like that would be perfect here.

If you’ve learned anything from all these topics, it should be that colleges are looking for unique personalities and strong voices that shine past the other applicants!

More Articles By Niche

The FAFSA has undergone several changes this year, causing unexpected delays for both students and colleges.

Here are my seven tips to the early high schooler in preparing for a strong college application.

We spoke with staff and faculty at Interlochen Arts Academy and Interlochen Arts Camp to get their best tips on overcoming perfectionism, developing confidence, and showcasing your artistic gifts. 

100 Creative Writing Prompts for Middle & High School – 2024

April 15, 2024

Some high school students dream of writing for a living, perhaps pursuing an English major in college, or even attending a creative writing MFA program later on. For other students, creative writing can be useful for school assignments, in English and other subjects, and also for preparing their Common App essays . In a less goal-oriented sense, daily freewriting in a journal can be a healthy life practice for many high schoolers. Not sure where to start? Continue reading for 100 creative writing prompts for middle school and high school students. These middle/high school writing prompts offer inspiration for getting started with writing in a number of genres and styles.

Click here to view the 35 Best Colleges for Creative Writing .

What are Creative Writing Prompts?

Similar to how an academic essay prompt provides a jumping-off point for forming and organizing an argument, creative writing prompts are points of initiation for writing a story, poem, or creative essay. Prompts can be useful for writers of all ages, helping many to get past writer’s block and just start (often one of the most difficult parts of a writing process).

Writing prompts come in a variety of forms. Sometimes they are phrases used to begin sentences. Other times they are questions, more like academic essay prompts Writing prompts can also involve objects such as photographs, or activities such as walking. Below, you will find high school writing prompts that use memories, objects, senses (smell/taste/touch), abstract ideas , and even songs as jumping-off points for creative writing. These prompts can be used to write in a variety of forms, from short stories to creative essays, to poems.

How to use Creative Writing Prompts

Before we get started with the list, are a few tips when using creative writing prompts:

Experiment with different formats : Prose is great, but there’s no need to limit yourself to full sentences, at least at first. A piece of creative writing can begin with a poem, or a dialogue, or even a list. You can always bring it back to prose later if needed.

Interpret the prompt broadly : The point of a creative writing prompt is not to answer it “correctly” or “precisely.” You might begin with the prompt, but then your ideas could take you in a completely different direction. The words in the prompt also don’t need to open your poem or essay, but could appear somewhere in the middle.

Switch up/pile up the prompts : Try using two or three prompts and combine them, or weave between them. Perhaps choose a main prompt, and a different “sub-prompt.” For example, your main prompt might be “write about being in transit from one place to another,” and within that prompt, you might use the prompt to “describe a physical sensation,” and/or one the dialogue prompts.  This could be a fun way to find complexity as you write.

Creative Writing Prompts for Middle School & High School Students (Continued)

Write first, edit later : While you’re first getting started with a prompt, leave the typos and bad grammar. Obsessing over details can take away from your flow of thoughts. You will inevitably make many fixes when you go back through to edit.

Write consistently : It often becomes easier to write when it’s a practice , rather than a once-in-a-while kind of activity. For some, it’s useful to write daily. Others find time to write every few days, or every weekend. Sometimes, a word-count goal can help (100 words a day, 2,000 words a month, etc.). If you set a goal, make sure it’s realistic. Start small and build from there, rather than starting with an unachievable goal and quickly giving up.

100 Creative Writing Prompts for Middle School & High School Teens

Here are some prompts for getting started with your creative writing. These are organized by method, rather than genre, so they can inspire writing in a variety of forms. Pick and choose the ones that work best for you, and enjoy!

Prompts using memories

• Begin each sentence or group of sentences with the phrase, “I remember…”
• Describe a family ritual.
• Choose an event in your life, and write about it from the perspective of someone else who was there.
• Pick a pathway you take on a regular basis (to school, or to a friend’s house). Describe five landmarks that you remember from this pathway.
• Write about your house or apartment using a memory from each room.
• Write an imaginary history of the previous people who lived in your house or apartment.
• Write about an ancestor based on stories you’ve heard from relatives.
• What’s your earliest memory?
• Who was your first friend?
• Write a letter to someone you haven’t seen since childhood.
• Write about yourself now from the perspective of yourself twenty, or eighty, years from now.
• Write about the best month of the year.
• Write about the worst day of the year.
• Rant about something that has always annoyed you.
• Write about the hottest or coldest day you can remember.
• Visualize a fleeting moment in your life and as though it’s a photograph, and time yourself 5 minutes to write every detail you can remember about the scene.
• Draw out a timeline of your life so far. Then choose three years to write about, as though you were writing for a history book.
• Write about a historical event in the first person, as though you remember it.
• Write about a memory of being in transit from one place to another.

Objects and photographs as creative writing prompts

• Describe the first object you see in the room. What importance does it have in your life? What memories do you have with this object? What might it symbolize?
• Pick up an object, and spend some time holding it/examining it. Write about how it looks, feels, and smells. Write about the material that it’s made from.
• Choose a favorite family photograph. What could someone know just by looking at the photograph? What’s secretly happening in the photograph?
• Choose a photograph and tell the story of this photograph from the perspective of someone or something in it.
• Write about a color by describing three objects that are that color.
• Tell the story of a piece of trash.
• Tell the story of a pair of shoes.
• Tell the story of your oldest piece of clothing.

Senses and observations as creative writing prompts

• Describe a sound you hear in the room or outside. Choose the first sound you notice. What are its qualities? It’s rhythms? What other sounds does it remind you of?
• Describe a physical sensation you feel right now, in as much detail as possible.
• Listen to a conversation and write down a phrase that you hear someone say. Start a free-write with this phrase.
• Write about a food by describing its qualities, but don’t say what it is.
• Describe a flavor (salty, sweet, bitter, etc.) to someone who has never tasted it before.
• Narrate your day through tastes you tasted.
• Narrate your day through sounds you heard.
• Narrate your day through physical sensations you felt.
• Describe in detail the physical process of doing an action you consider simple or mundane, like walking or lying down or chopping vegetables.
• Write about the sensation of doing an action you consider physically demanding or tiring, like running or lifting heavy boxes.
• Describe something that gives you goosebumps.
• Write a story that involves drinking a cold glass of water on a hot day.
• Write a story that involves entering a warm house from a cold snowy day.
• Describe someone’s facial features in as much detail as possible.

Songs, books, and other art

• Choose a song quote, write it down, and free-write from there.
• Choose a song, and write a story in which that song is playing in the car.
• Choose a song, and write to the rhythm of that song.
• Choose a character from a book, and describe an event in your life from the perspective of that character.
• Go to a library and write down 10 book titles that catch your eye. Free-write for 5 minutes beginning with each one.
• Go to a library and open to random book pages, and write down 5 sentences that catch your attention. Use those sentences as prompts and free-write for 5-minutes with each.
• Choose a piece of abstract artwork. Jot down 10 words that come to mind from the painting or drawing, and free-write for 2 minutes based on each word.
• Find a picture of a dramatic Renaissance painting online. Tell a story about what’s going on in the painting that has nothing to do with what the artist intended.
• Write about your day in five acts, like a Shakespearean play. If your day were a play, what would be the introduction, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution?
• Narrate a complicated book or film plot using only short sentences.
• Read a short poem. Then write a poem that could be a “sister” or “cousin” of that poem.

Abstract ideas as creative writing prompts

• Write about an experience that demonstrates an abstract idea, such as “love” or “home” or “freedom” or “loss” without ever using the word itself.
• Write a list of ways to say “hello” without actually saying “hello.”
• Write a list of ways to say “I love you” without actually saying “I love you.”
• Do you believe in ghosts? Describe a ghost.
• Invent a mode of time travel.
• Glass half-full/half-empty: Write about an event or situation with a positive outlook. Then write about it with a miserable outlook.
• Free-write beginning with “my religion is…” (what comes next can have as much or as little to do with organized religion as you’d like).
• Free-write beginning with “my gender is…” (what comes next can have as much or as little to do with common ideas of gender as you’d like).
• Write about a person or character that is “good” and one that is “evil.” Then write about the “evil” in the good character and the “good” in the evil character.
• Write like you’re telling a secret.
• Describe a moment of beauty you witnessed. What makes something beautiful?

Prompts for playing with narrative and character

• Begin writing with the phrase, “It all started when…”
• Tell a story from the middle of the most dramatic part.
• Write a story that begins with the ending.
• Begin a story but give it 5 possible endings.
• Write a list of ways to dramatically quit a terrible job.
• Write about a character breaking a social rule or ritual (i.e., walking backwards, sitting on the floor of a restaurant, wearing a ballgown to the grocery store). What are the ramifications?
• You are sent to the principal’s office. Justify your bad behavior.
• Re-write a well-known fairytale but set it in your school.
• Write your own version of the TV show trope where someone gets stuck in an elevator with a stranger, or a secret love interest, or a nemesis.
• Imagine a day where you said everything you were thinking, and write about it.
• Write about a scenario in which you have too much of a good thing.
• Write about a scenario in which money can buy happiness.
• Invent a bank or museum heist.
• Invent a superhero, including an origin story.
• Write using the form of the scientific method (question, hypothesis, test, analyze data conclusion).
• Write using the form of a recipe.

Middle School & High School Creative writing prompts for playing with fact vs. fiction

• Write something you know for sure is true, and then, “but maybe it isn’t.” Then explain why that thing may not be true.
• Write a statement and contradict that statement. Then do it again.
• Draft an email with an outlandish excuse as to why you didn’t do your homework or why you need an extension.
• Write about your morning routine, and make it sound extravagant/luxurious (even if it isn’t).
• You’ve just won an award for doing a very mundane and simple task. Write your acceptance speech.
• Write about a non-athletic event as though it were a sports game.
• Write about the most complicated way to complete a simple task.
• Write a brief history of your life, and exaggerate everything.
• Write about your day, but lie about some things.
• Tell the story of your birth.
• Choose a historical event and write an alternative outcome.
• Write about a day in the life of a famous person in history.
• Read an instructional manual, and change three instructions to include some kind of magical or otherwise impossible element.

Prompts for starting with dialogue

• Write a texting conversation between two friends who haven’t spoken in years.
• Write a texting conversation between two friends who speak every day and know each other better than anyone.
• Watch two people on the street having a conversation, and imagine the conversation they’re having. Write it down.
• Write an overheard conversation behind a closed door that you shouldn’t be listening to.
• Write a conversation between two characters arguing about contradicting memories of what happened.
• You have a difficult decision to make. Write a conversation about it with yourself.
• Write a conversation with a total lack of communication.
• Write a job interview gone badly.

Final Thoughts – Creative Writing Prompts for Middle School & High School 

Hopefully you have found several of these creative writing prompts helpful. Remember that when writing creatively, especially on your own, you can mix, match, and change prompts. For more on writing for high school students, check out the following articles:

• College Application Essay Topics to Avoid
• 160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics
• 150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics
• Good Transition Words for Essays
• High School Success

Sarah Mininsohn

With a BA from Wesleyan University and an MFA from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Sarah is a writer, educator, and artist. She served as a graduate instructor at the University of Illinois, a tutor at St Peter’s School in Philadelphia, and an academic writing tutor and thesis mentor at Wesleyan’s Writing Workshop.

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