Personal Essay Topics
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A personal essay is an essay about your life, thoughts, or experiences. This type of essay will give readers a glimpse into your most intimate life experiences and life lessons. There are many reasons you may need to write a personal essay , from a simple class assignment to a college application requirement . You can use the list below for inspiration. Consider each statement a starting point, and write about a memorable moment that the prompt brings to mind.
- Your bravest moment
- How you met your best friend
- What makes your mom or dad special
- How you overcame a fear
- Why you will succeed
- Why you made a difficult choice
- A special place
- A place you try to avoid
- When a friend let you down
- An event that changed your life
- A special encounter with an animal
- A time when you felt out of place
- An odd experience that didn't make sense at the time
- Words of wisdom that hit home and changed your way of thinking
- A person that you do not like
- A time when you disappointed someone
- Your fondest memory
- A time when you saw your parent cry
- The moment when you knew you were grown up
- Your earliest memory of holiday celebrations in your home
- Times when you should have made a better choice
- A time when you dodged a dangerous situation
- A person you will think about at the end of your life
- Your favorite time period
- A failure you've experienced
- A disappointment you've experienced
- A surprising turn of events
- What you would do with power
- What superpower you would choose
- If you could switch lives with someone
- How money matters in your life
- Your biggest loss
- A time when you felt you did the wrong thing
- A proud moment when you did the right thing
- An experience that you've never shared with another person
- A special place that you shared with a childhood friend
- A first encounter with a stranger
- Your first handshake
- Where you go to hide
- If you had a do-over
- A book that changed your life
- Words that stung
- When you had the desire to run
- When you had the urge to crawl into a hole
- Words that prompted hope
- When a child taught you a lesson
- Your proudest moment
- If your dog could talk
- Your favorite time with family
- If you could live in another country
- If you could invent something
- The world a hundred years from now
- If you had lived a hundred years earlier
- The animal you'd like to be
- One thing you'd change at your school
- The greatest movie moment
- The type of teacher you would be
- If you could be a building
- A statue you'd like to see
- If you could live anywhere
- The greatest discovery
- If you could change one thing about yourself
- An animal that could be in charge
- Something you can do that robots could never do
- Your most unfortunate day
- Your secret talent
- Your secret love
- The most beautiful thing you've ever seen
- The ugliest thing you've seen
- Something you've witnessed
- An accident that changed everything
- A wrong choice
- A right choice
- If you were a food
- How you'd spend a million dollars
- If you could start a charity
- The meaning of color
- A close call
- Your favorite gift
- A chore you'd do away with
- A secret place
- Something you can't resist
- A hard lesson
- A visitor you'll never forget
- An unexplained event
- Your longest minute
- An awkward social moment
- An experience with death
- Why you'll never tell a lie
- If your mom knew, she'd kill you
- A kiss that meant a lot
- When you needed a hug
- The hardest news you've had to deliver
- A special morning
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Personal Essay Topics
Essay paper writing
Academic writing
Personal essay is considered to be one of the most interesting academic assignments. Writing such an essay, you are not just creating a regular text about some person but also have a great opportunity to demonstrate your views, feelings, or opinion on a given topic. In a good paper, you can influence the readers and present some new ideas to them.
Students often think that a personal essay is difficult to write. Moreover, they often get scared when they realize that they may need to prepare for this assignment longer than usual. Well, in fact, there is nothing complicated in this task. All you need to do is express the main idea clearly, discuss it, and be honest with your readers.
However, sometimes the situation gets worse when a teacher gives quite specific college personal essay topics, and you have no opportunity to touch upon some important issues that you might want to discuss. Relax and do not think of the topic as a limitation! Instead, try to provide a deeper comprehension of the issues and concepts related to the theme of your paper.
The next challenge of creating such a text is that you will need to combine a lot of writing styles. But do not panic! Look at this struggle from a different perspective, and it will become an advantage which allows you to express your thoughts more vividly. After all, it’s a fact that your writing style reflects your personality.
Of course, the success of your essay mostly depends on the topic, so you are welcome to choose one of the interesting personal essay topics presented by our essay writing service in this article. Then, working on the task, make sure that it is not a monotonous piece that will be difficult to read. Well-structured papers on relevant common personal essay topics provide an excellent opportunity to show your point of view and express your feelings regarding the subject.
How to write personal essays?
This question is pertinent among the new writers who struggle to create a whole text about a person. But there is nothing to worry about! First of all, try to collect as much information as possible. For example, look for some interviews with the individual you want to write about. If you have one of the top personal essay topics, it will be quite easy to find this kind of info.
The next aspect of a good essay is the formatting of the text. This is not the easiest part of writing, but it is definitely not the thing you should be concerned about. Make sure that you have a writing guide to refer to or just ask your professor about formatting rules at your college. By the way, mind that we are talking mostly about personal essay topics for college, so if you have to write such text for school or university, you will need to adapt it to the requirements of that educational institution.
Finally, let’s consider the structure of a good personal essay. In the first paragraph, you have to provide a brief biography of the person you are writing about. It should contain some information about their life, achievements, and some interesting facts. After that, try to find some info about the childhood years of this individual. Using this technique, you can create an interesting intro which will prompt your audience to read the text to the very end. If you have troubles with that, you can just pick one of the personal essay topics for high school students, as they should be easier to find info on. After you are done with the first section, it is time to move on to the most challenging part of writing. Here, you have to describe the outstanding years of a person’s life and analyze the most important experiences or events during that time . Do not get scared if you are assigned to write a text about yourself or someone you do not know. You may have excellent writing skills, but it is always difficult to tell personal stories or share memories. So don’t lose heart if you won’t succeed with your first personal essay.
Why choose to write on the personal persuasive essay topics
While reading the information above, you may get the following question, “Why would a novice writer pick such a complex topic to write on?” First of all, people need to do something new and challenging all the time in order to become well-versed in particular spheres. Secondly, students learn how to work on several types of texts, which not only helps them to become better writers but also reach a totally new level of proficiency. Another great thing is that if you pick one of the personal essay topics for college applications, you will be able to stand out from the crowd of those who are going to choose the easier topics.
So, now it’s time to start writing the actual essay. Do not worry if you still have no ideas what to write about. In this article, we will provide the list of personal essay topic options which will definitely help you to write a perfect paper and get an excellent mark.
College level personal essay topics
College-level personal experience essay topics are more challenging to cope with than school ones because you have to search and analyze a lot. Moreover, writing college-level essays presupposes the development of analytical and critical thinking skills. Just like writing a personal essay for college application, it requires a more in-depth evaluation of the issue under consideration. If you struggle to find a proper topic for your essay, here is a list of interesting themes for college students:
- The biggest fear in your life
- A difficult decision you have made
- When did you have the biggest argument with your sibling?
- The most interesting dream you have ever had
- Music that inspires you and makes you feel good
- Perfect family vacation
- The day you met your best college friend
- The most awkward moment in college
- Your phobias
- Things your parents have taught you
- The time you spoke out about something important to you
- How would you spend your gap year?
- What is the bravest moment of your life?
- What did you do when a close person betrayed you?
- The most important lesson in your life
- Describe the biggest failure in your life and what you have learned from it
Personal essay topics for education
These topics are slightly different from the previous ones. Educational themes are usually a bit more school-based, which means that you need to have some basic knowledge to complete them. A lot of things can be described in this essay, but it is important to include only relevant information and clearly state your opinion. By the way, these themes are considered the best personal essay topics among all. The reason is that writing this kind of essay, you have an opportunity to demonstrate your views, goals, and aspirations so that your teacher can determine your ambitions and potential in the study area. Therefore, let us move on to the actual examples:
- How can a professor motivate you to become a better person?
- What are the best methods to deliver a speech?
- Do you like doing homework, or is it a waste of time for you?
- The best lesson you have learned studying in college or high school
- Is it hard for you to prepare for school exams? How do you handle stress during that period?
- What second language did you learn and how?
- What motivates you to study hard and pursue your dreams?
- The right and wrong choices you made regarding study and education
Easy topics for personal essay
Students choose easy topics quite often because they are not willing to spend a lot of time on writing. Selecting such a theme is not a bad idea at all because these topics are usually quite broad. Make sure you know how to write the best pieces using these great personal essay topics:
- How to relax after a hard day?
- The greatest fear you have
- The best place in your house
- The best period of the history of your country
- Your favorite movie
- What would you buy right now if you had a lot of money?
- The work of art that you adore the most
- The best period of your life
- Who is your favorite singer?
- Secret talent you have
- The unexplained event that happened to you
- Your favorite season
- Your best birthday party
- Your favorite type of food
- The best childhood memory
- What would you do if you won the lottery
- Your favorite holiday
Some other good personal essay topics
If you are still out of ideas for personal essay topics, you can consider the themes listed below:
- The last act of kindness that you have made
- The job of your dream
- The most beautiful place in the world you have ever seen
- The best music band that helps you to fall asleep
- The most annoying things in your life
- A thing that reminds you of your childhood
- The role of money in your life
- The best words you have heard in your life
- Have you ever witnessed something that you will remember for the rest of your life?
- The best morning in your life
- Something that makes you feel guilty
- Your shopping habits
- A place you would go if you could travel back in time
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110 Personal Essay Topics
Though written from a lived experience, personal essay topics can be tricky to come up with because they have to be universal enough for other people to relate to.
Since the skill of writing a good essay is being able to paint an image with words, students must choose a topic that will get others interested in the story and what it has to say about life, society, or themselves.
In essence, personal essays are written from a personal point of view and express a writer’s own insights, opinions, and feelings on a particular topic. Additionally, these types of essays lead to an overall point, lesson, realization, or revelation.
Most commonly, personal essays are written by high school students as part of their college applications. However, there are many other reasons that a personal essay may be assigned or written, including:
- Scholarship applications
- Job interview
- Writing contest
- Grad school admission
Students and others struggling with a valuable personal essay topic can choose from any of the 110 personal essay topics on this list to help them get started.
How to Write a Personal Essay
Writing a personal essay will require you to follow a traditional essay’s guidelines, structure, and format. However, you will also need to ensure that your essay is personal or tells a story about yourself rather than being entirely academic.
For example, you might want to explain an experience that changed how you saw the world or share an opinion on something important to you – even if the rest of the world doesn’t agree with it.
It often helps to make a list of experiences that you may want to share before starting with the writing aspect of the personal essay.
Introduction
The introduction to your personal essay will set the scene for the reader. Therefore, your personal essay needs to start with a compelling hook that will draw the reader in and make them want to read more.
This hook statement could be a humorous or poignant anecdote related to your topic or a line of questioning that the reader will be interested in following. For example, some possible opening lines for a personal essay could start with:
- “I remember exactly where I was when I first realized …”
- “What would you do if you knew the world was going to end tomorrow?
- “So, I once had this problem …”
These beginning lines will often create questions in the reader’s mind, which is an excellent way to capture their interest and keep them reading. Following this initial opening sentence, you can introduce other details as you build up the main point of the story.
Your introduction should end with a thesis statement that verbalizes the general direction the story will go.
Body Paragraphs
Generally, a personal essay will have no less than three body paragraphs that detail your experience in chronological order. Each section should discuss one part of the story, including the events leading up to it, what happened during the experience, and what you learned from it.
Body paragraphs may also include examples of feelings, emotions, or arguments that support your experience. The goal of a personal essay is to share a compelling story and teach the reader something about life or themselves by using specific details and language.
Consider this formatting when creating the body paragraphs of your personal essay:
1st Paragraph
- Beginning of the story that answers questions related to “Who?” and “Where?”
- Initial attitudes, moods, feelings, and assumptions about the event or experience about to take place
2nd Paragraph
- Middle of the story
- Details that show how the situation evolved over time, including any changes in mood or assumption on your part
3rd Paragraph
- Ending of the story/resolution
- The final analysis on overall feelings, emotions, and mood
By sticking to this formatting for the body paragraphs, students can ensure that they are telling the story correctly and including every key detail as it happens.
Conclusion Paragraph
The conclusion of a personal essay is optional and depends on what you want to accomplish with the telling of your story. If you want to leave the reader feeling inspired or emotionally moved, then focus on summarizing the main points in a short paragraph that ends on a positive note.
However, if this was a darker story, you may want to use the concluding paragraph to sum up your feelings after the experience has ended or explore any unanswered questions that remain.
In any event, your conclusion does need to include an overall moral or lesson of how the writer:
- overcame hardship
- rose to the occasion
- identified new traits or abilities that they never realized existed
- turned defeat into success
- followed their instincts and made the right choice
- came to appreciate something about life after the experience took place
Any of these statements can stand alone as a powerful lesson learned. However, when combined in one concluding paragraph, you will leave your reader with a profound impression.
Using any of these 110 personal essay topics will ensure that you have a strong and interesting story to tell.
Personal Essay Topics About Relationships
- What was a time when you made a friend?
- What would your worst enemy say about you?
- Talk about the death of a friend.
- How did it feel to be bullied in school?
- The time when you had to get along with a sibling despite being different ages
- What you learned from your first relationship
- Why marriage isn’t important to you
- How you discovered polyamory, and how it changed your view of relationships
- How your best friend made you a better person
- The lesson you learned from being catfished
- The first time you experienced heartbreak
- A funny story about how technology ruined a relationship.
- How did you learn to recognize love?
- Who would you consider your soulmate? What makes them that person specifically for you?
- What was your most embarrassing moment as a boyfriend or girlfriend, and what did you learn from it?
Personal Essay Topics About Hardships
- The worst thing that ever happened to me
- The roughest time in my family’s life
- The hardest challenge I’ve ever had to overcome
- How did you deal with the stress of moving?
- What was your most embarrassing moment as a kid?
- What are some reasons that I am grateful for my disability/illness/condition?
- When have you had an “Aha!” moment in life?
- What’s something terrible that happened to you that turned into something good?
- What’s the biggest lesson I’ve learned from my failures?
- The time when it almost felt like the world was against me
- How did I handle/recover from a severe illness/injury/accident?
- When was the first time I realized that life isn’t fair?
- What was the biggest struggle I went through in my teens?
- The most challenging situation I faced in high school
- When was a time when I made a negative impact on someone else?
- The first time I got caught stealing
- The most embarrassing mistake I ever made with money
- What was the most challenging thing about getting sober/clean/overcoming addiction?
- When did I realize that life is short and that nobody is promised tomorrow?
- How did you learn to persevere through tough times?
Personal Essay Topics About Success & Achievements
- Best moment in my sports career
- My greatest success story
- The time I overcame my fear and found strength I didn’t know I had.
- What’s the happiest day of my life?
- How did I learn to overcome failure?
- The time I knew that dreams really do come true
- My greatest triumph over adversity – and what it taught me about myself.
- What made you realize that you have to work hard in order to achieve something meaningful in life?
- When did I know that I had made it in life?
- When was the first time you were acknowledged for your achievements?
- The night when my hard work truly paid off
- My most powerful moment after overcoming a setback
- How did I become successful?
- What are some defining moments in my career?
- How did I make it through a difficult time in college/university?
- What motivated me to become the person I am today?
Personal Essay Topics About Personal Growth & Self-Reflection
- Whose lifelong encouragement helped make me who I am today
- The first time I took responsibility for my own actions
- What gave me the courage to be myself?
- The most valuable life lesson I’ve ever received. Who taught it to me, and what was the context?
- How did I get through a difficult childhood/adolescence/teenage years?
- What did I learn from becoming a yoga master?
- How has meditation helped me overcome anger issues?
- How did I recover from using drugs and alcohol?
- What’s the biggest lesson I’ve learned from quitting my job?
- When did I realize that life is too short to hate someone?
- The moment when I knew it was time for a change
- I made a mistake – and this is how I bounced back
- How did I overcome depression/anxiety/mental illness?
Personal Essay Topics About Passions & Hobbies
- How did learning a skill change my life?
- Why exercise makes me a better person
- My passion for writing
- What’s the best advice I’ve ever received? Who gave it to me, and in what situation?
- The moment when I realized my true calling in life
- The importance of keeping a journal and how it has helped me become a better person
- My biggest bucket list dream and why it’s so important to me
- What is my vision for the future?
- How did I find peace, contentment, and happiness?
- The time when I truly lived outside of my comfort zone
- When was the moment when I felt like I “got” meditation?
- My journey towards becoming vegan. What inspired me to make this change, and what were the challenges I faced?
- What lessons have been easy for me to learn, and which ones have been harder?
- The time when travel changed my life
Personal Essay Topics About Challenges & Failures
- The low point of my life and how I got through it
- How did an illness/injury/death in the family affect me?
- Why did I decide to stop going on blind dates?
- What were the consequences of losing my temper, and how did I make amends?
- The time when I was broken. What happened, who got hurt, and how did it affect me? How did I overcome this experience?
- When was the moment when I realized that my words carry weight?
Personal Essay Topics About Family & Childhood Memories
- The time when my family showed me what unconditional love means
- My most vivid childhood memory and how it has affected me as an adult
- How did I learn to be patient and kind?
- What was the moment that sparked a change in my life? What caused this change, and what happened after the changes took place?
- The moment when I realized the true meaning of friendship
- What lessons did growing up teach me about life?
- My childhood dream and what it taught me about myself
- How do I feel about my hometown after living in three different places?
- Why is it important to visit your birthplace/hometown during holidays/vacations?
- My family’s most influential life lesson and how it has affected me
- What was the moment when I realized that my parents had their own struggles?
- The time when I learned about my family history. What happened, why did this happen, and how did it affect me? How did things change after this event?
- What do I know about family traditions now that I didn’t understand as a child?
- Why are your family memories vital to you?
Personal Essay Topics About Cultural Heritage & Identity
- What does being bilingual/multilingual mean to me? Why is it unique?
- My first interaction with someone from another culture
- What’s wrong with cultural appropriation, and how did I learn to stop?
- The moment when I became aware of my race/ethnicity
- My culture’s most influential life lesson and how it has affected me
- How I learned to not be afraid of my cultural differences
- Why is diversity important in my community? In what ways do I contribute?
- The moment I realized that I am proud of my culture
- How has the immigrant/refugee experience shaped who you are today?
- How traditions have changed the way I view my family
Personal Essay Topics About Childhood Dreams & Aspirations
- What were my childhood dreams, and how have they changed over the years?
- How did I make peace with the fear of growing up?
Any of these 110 personal essay topics are perfect for students struggling to find a topic that will impress a college admission officer or any other person with whom you’re trying to connect with on a personal level through storytelling.
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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!
Want to write the perfect college application essay? Get professional help from PrepScholar.
Your dedicated PrepScholar Admissions counselor will craft your perfect college essay, from the ground up. We'll learn your background and interests, brainstorm essay topics, and walk you through the essay drafting process, step-by-step. At the end, you'll have a unique essay that you'll proudly submit to your top choice colleges.
Don't leave your college application to chance. Find out more about PrepScholar Admissions now :
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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100+ Personal Essay Topics For College And Writing Tips
Table of Contents
Looking for interesting personal essay writing ideas? We’ve got a bunch…
A personal essay is a typical assignment for high-school and college students. It’s a type of non-fiction that incorporates a variety of writing styles. Personal essay topics usually include real stories, experiences, and opinions of people.
Writers need to give an account of their own experience and express their thoughts on the subject of a paper. The key to success is to make an attempt to combine narration and opinion together. In this article, you will find a short writing guide and 100+ engaging personal essay topic ideas.
How to write personal essays?
Keep in mind that personal writing is always subjective. It is based on the writer’s observation, feelings, opinion, and experience. You are the speaker, so it’s quite natural to use such pronouns as I, my, me, we, and our.
First of all, most essay writing websites will say that you need to find a compelling topic. College personal essay topics include a lot of things.
Students may be asked to
- state their opinion about an issue
- document what they observed
- share a story
- give a description of an object, event, place, person
- relate a specific subject to their own life
Whatever theme you choose, it’s crucial to start an introduction of your paper with a strong hook to capture the audience’s attention. Introduce the subject in the first paragraph. Think about the main idea you want to communicate.
In the body of your paper, inform readers about the subject. It’s better to create an outline before to start writing. It will help you organize your thoughts, stay focused, and write clearly and concisely. Start each paragraph with a new idea. Show, don’t tell. Use strong verbs and include a lot of sensory details.
End with a thought-provoking conclusion. You need to explain what lesson you have learned, how your experience contributed to your development as a person and shaped your personality.
Why choose personal persuasive essay topics for writing
When writing on personal persuasive essay topics, writers must state their position or opinion on an issue and try to persuade people to accept their point of view, telling stories and appealing to their feelings and emotions.
That differs from elaborating on personal argumentative essay topics, when students have to support their point of view with strong arguments, reasons, relevant examples, appropriate illustrations, etc.
These types of papers are not easy to write as well as papers on personal cause and effect essay topics.
But there are important reasons why you may want to do that.
- You’ll improve communication and critical thinking skills .
- Challenging themes can help you stand out from the crowd.
- You will be able to demonstrate your creativity and ability to apply persuasive techniques.
… Can’t decide what idea to choose?
Here we have gathered a wide variety of moving ideas for your inspiration. Whether you need personal experience essay topics or personal narrative essay topics, we’ve got you covered.
Personal essay topics: what are they about?
You may write on any subject. Popular themes include hobbies, nature, childhood, illness, travel, making a difficult choice, learning something new, friends, family, and relationships.
You may use some personal challenge essay ideas and tell about overcoming an obstacle. Or you can buy argumentative essay if you don’t have time to work on college tasks tonight.
Actually, the subject is not as important as you think. Readers want to see your point of view that reveals your unique personality.
- How you met a special person in your life?
- A person you admire most.
- The best place in the local area.
- A place where you would like to live your whole life.
- Works of art you admire.
- The job of your dream.
- Your biggest disappointment.
- Books that made a great impression on you.
- What annoys you?
- Your family traditions.
- Are you addicted to technology?
- What modern songs inspire you?
- Could you live without money?
- Do you like commercials?
- What is your best method of studying?
Personal narrative essay topics
- Tell about your first trip abroad.
- The most unfortunate event ever happened to you.
- What happened during your first day at school?
- What is your first childhood memory?
- What is your most memorable family event?
- Did you experience failure?
- What games did you play when you were a child?
- The biggest challenge you have overcome.
- Do you remember your first birthday party?
- Tell how you learn something new.
- Have you ever encountered a wild animal?
- Tell about the first time you were home alone.
- How you cooked a meal for the first time?
- Tell how you helped someone.
- How you overcame fear?
Personal experience essay topics
- What things make you feel happy?
- How you came to healthy eating habits?
- How did you celebrate Christmas?
- Did you bring a stray animal home?
- How did you learn to drive?
- How you met a famous person?
- How did you learn something from enemies?
- Describe the accidents you witnessed.
- How you got hurt?
- Describe disastrous trips or vacations.
- Fantastic concerts you attended.
- Describe terrifying nightmares.
- Your reaction when provoked.
- Experience of being a leader.
- A friendship breakup experience.
Personal argumentative essay topics
- What could you live without?
- Why are you concerned about environmental issues?
- How much money do you need for happiness?
- What does your ethnic identity mean to you?
- Significance of personal growth.
- Male and female roles in your family.
- Your attitude to feminism.
- Explain what does it mean to be a Human.
- Most precious moments of your life.
- What is more critical: wealth or happiness?
- Your attitude to getting a tattoo.
- Is it important to be crazy about fashion?
- Your opinion on cosmetics surgery.
- Significance of healthy lifestyle choices.
- Your favourite holiday destinations.
College personal essay topics
- Have you been in love with someone?
- What is your life’s goal?
- What does success mean to you?
- How freedom matters in your life?
- How you leave the comfort zone?
- Things you appreciate in life.
- What things do you hate?
- How you met college roommates?
- Your plans on spending a gap year.
- How you got your first job?
- Describe intellectual challenges you would like to solve.
- What did you learn from failures?
- Outdoor activities you like most.
- Explain your commitments.
- What motivates you?
Personal persuasive essay topics
- Your opinion of distant learning and online education.
- Can listening to music help complete your homework faster?
- Can hobbies help in a future career?
- Is it ethical to buy products tested on animals?
- Why is volunteering important?
- Should drugs be banned?
- Your favourite restaurant everyone should visit.
- Things to do to help our world survive.
- How can we make the world a better place?
- Is it possible to avoid stress?
- Should zoos be forbidden?
- How online shopping makes me spend more money?
- Why I don’t smoke.
- Things I want to be doing when I become 85.
- Why do I recommend students to study abroad?
Personal cause and effect essay topics
- Why I don’t watch TV.
- Reasons I go in for sports.
- Effects of social media on the daily routine.
- How my failures make me stronger?
- Books that changed my world view.
- Reasons why I study computer science.
- Influence of my parents on my life choices.
- Importance of learning math for my future career.
- Effect of being a single child.
- How my pets make me a better person?
- Influence of regular exercise on my health and wellbeing.
- What makes me rebel against my parents?
- How did my parents help me to study?
- Why going to college made me an independent person?
- What caused my burn out?
Feel free to use our good personal essay topics for creating amazing pieces that will make a powerful impression on your readers and get you high grades.
Can’t grab your thoughts together and come up with a perfect personal essay? No worries! Our writers will do all the writing, while you enjoy your free time. Psst, it takes a few clicks only…
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10 Personal Statement Essay Examples That Worked
What’s covered:, what is a personal statement.
- Essay 1: Summer Program
- Essay 2: Being Bangladeshi-American
- Essay 3: Why Medicine
- Essay 4: Love of Writing
- Essay 5: Starting a Fire
- Essay 6: Dedicating a Track
- Essay 7: Body Image and Eating Disorders
- Essay 8: Becoming a Coach
- Essay 9: Eritrea
- Essay 10: Journaling
- Is Your Personal Statement Strong Enough?
Your personal statement is any essay that you must write for your main application, such as the Common App Essay , University of California Essays , or Coalition Application Essay . This type of essay focuses on your unique experiences, ideas, or beliefs that may not be discussed throughout the rest of your application. This essay should be an opportunity for the admissions officers to get to know you better and give them a glimpse into who you really are.
In this post, we will share 10 different personal statements that were all written by real students. We will also provide commentary on what each essay did well and where there is room for improvement, so you can make your personal statement as strong as possible!
Please note: Looking at examples of real essays students have submitted to colleges can be very beneficial to get inspiration for your essays. You should never copy or plagiarize from these examples when writing your own essays. Colleges can tell when an essay isn’t genuine and will not view students favorably if they plagiarized.
Personal Statement Examples
Essay example #1: exchange program.
The twisting roads, ornate mosaics, and fragrant scent of freshly ground spices had been so foreign at first. Now in my fifth week of the SNYI-L summer exchange program in Morocco, I felt more comfortable in the city. With a bag full of pastries from the market, I navigated to a bus stop, paid the fare, and began the trip back to my host family’s house. It was hard to believe that only a few years earlier my mom was worried about letting me travel around my home city on my own, let alone a place that I had only lived in for a few weeks. While I had been on a journey towards self-sufficiency and independence for a few years now, it was Morocco that pushed me to become the confident, self-reflective person that I am today.
As a child, my parents pressured me to achieve perfect grades, master my swim strokes, and discover interesting hobbies like playing the oboe and learning to pick locks. I felt compelled to live my life according to their wishes. Of course, this pressure was not a wholly negative factor in my life –– you might even call it support. However, the constant presence of my parents’ hopes for me overcame my own sense of desire and led me to become quite dependent on them. I pushed myself to get straight A’s, complied with years of oboe lessons, and dutifully attended hours of swim practice after school. Despite all these achievements, I felt like I had no sense of self beyond my drive for success. I had always been expected to succeed on the path they had defined. However, this path was interrupted seven years after my parents’ divorce when my dad moved across the country to Oregon.
I missed my dad’s close presence, but I loved my new sense of freedom. My parents’ separation allowed me the space to explore my own strengths and interests as each of them became individually busier. As early as middle school, I was riding the light rail train by myself, reading maps to get myself home, and applying to special academic programs without urging from my parents. Even as I took more initiatives on my own, my parents both continued to see me as somewhat immature. All of that changed three years ago, when I applied and was accepted to the SNYI-L summer exchange program in Morocco. I would be studying Arabic and learning my way around the city of Marrakesh. Although I think my parents were a little surprised when I told them my news, the addition of a fully-funded scholarship convinced them to let me go.
I lived with a host family in Marrakesh and learned that they, too, had high expectations for me. I didn’t know a word of Arabic, and although my host parents and one brother spoke good English, they knew I was there to learn. If I messed up, they patiently corrected me but refused to let me fall into the easy pattern of speaking English just as I did at home. Just as I had when I was younger, I felt pressured and stressed about meeting their expectations. However, one day, as I strolled through the bustling market square after successfully bargaining with one of the street vendors, I realized my mistake. My host family wasn’t being unfair by making me fumble through Arabic. I had applied for this trip, and I had committed to the intensive language study. My host family’s rules about speaking Arabic at home had not been to fulfill their expectations for me, but to help me fulfill my expectations for myself. Similarly, the pressure my parents had put on me as a child had come out of love and their hopes for me, not out of a desire to crush my individuality.
As my bus drove through the still-bustling market square and past the medieval Ben-Youssef madrasa, I realized that becoming independent was a process, not an event. I thought that my parents’ separation when I was ten had been the one experience that would transform me into a self-motivated and autonomous person. It did, but that didn’t mean that I didn’t still have room to grow. Now, although I am even more self-sufficient than I was three years ago, I try to approach every experience with the expectation that it will change me. It’s still difficult, but I understand that just because growth can be uncomfortable doesn’t mean it’s not important.
What the Essay Did Well
This is a nice essay because it delves into particular character trait of the student and how it has been shaped and matured over time. Although it doesn’t focus the essay around a specific anecdote, the essay is still successful because it is centered around this student’s independence. This is a nice approach for a personal statement: highlight a particular trait of yours and explore how it has grown with you.
The ideas in this essay are universal to growing up—living up to parents’ expectations, yearning for freedom, and coming to terms with reality—but it feels unique to the student because of the inclusion of details specific to them. Including their oboe lessons, the experience of riding the light rail by themselves, and the negotiations with a street vendor helps show the reader what these common tropes of growing up looked like for them personally.
Another strength of the essay is the level of self-reflection included throughout the piece. Since there is no central anecdote tying everything together, an essay about a character trait is only successful when you deeply reflect on how you felt, where you made mistakes, and how that trait impacts your life. The author includes reflection in sentences like “ I felt like I had no sense of self beyond my drive for success, ” and “ I understand that just because growth can be uncomfortable doesn’t mean it’s not important. ” These sentences help us see how the student was impacted and what their point of view is.
What Could Be Improved
The largest change this essay would benefit from is to show not tell. The platitude you have heard a million times no doubt, but for good reason. This essay heavily relies on telling the reader what occurred, making us less engaged as the entire reading experience feels more passive. If the student had shown us what happens though, it keeps the reader tied to the action and makes them feel like they are there with the student, making it much more enjoyable to read.
For example, they tell us about the pressure to succeed their parents placed on them: “ I pushed myself to get straight A’s, complied with years of oboe lessons, and dutifully attended hours of swim practice after school.” They could have shown us what that pressure looked like with a sentence like this: “ My stomach turned somersaults as my rattling knee thumped against the desk before every test, scared to get anything less than a 95. For five years the painful squawk of the oboe only reminded me of my parents’ claps and whistles at my concerts. I mastered the butterfly, backstroke, and freestyle, fighting against the anchor of their expectations threatening to pull me down.”
If the student had gone through their essay and applied this exercise of bringing more detail and colorful language to sentences that tell the reader what happened, the essay would be really great.
Table of Contents
Essay Example #2: Being Bangladeshi-American
Life before was good: verdant forests, sumptuous curries, and a devoted family.
Then, my family abandoned our comfortable life in Bangladesh for a chance at the American dream in Los Angeles. Within our first year, my father was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. He lost his battle three weeks before my sixth birthday. Facing a new country without the steady presence of my father, we were vulnerable — prisoners of hardship in the land of the free. We resettled in the Bronx, in my uncle’s renovated basement. It was meant to be our refuge, but I felt more displaced than ever. Gone were the high-rise condos of West L.A.; instead, government projects towered over the neighborhood. Pedestrians no longer smiled and greeted me; the atmosphere was hostile, even toxic. Schoolkids were quick to pick on those they saw as weak or foreign, hurling harsh words I’d never heard before.
Meanwhile, my family began integrating into the local Bangladeshi community. I struggled to understand those who shared my heritage. Bangladeshi mothers stayed home while fathers drove cabs and sold fruit by the roadside — painful societal positions. Riding on crosstown buses or walking home from school, I began to internalize these disparities. During my fleeting encounters with affluent Upper East Siders, I saw kids my age with nannies, parents who wore suits to work, and luxurious apartments with spectacular views. Most took cabs to their destinations: cabs that Bangladeshis drove. I watched the mundane moments of their lives with longing, aching to plant myself in their shoes. Shame prickled down my spine. I distanced myself from my heritage, rejecting the traditional panjabis worn on Eid and refusing the torkari we ate for dinner every day.
As I grappled with my relationship with the Bangladeshi community, I turned my attention to helping my Bronx community by pursuing an internship with Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda. I handled desk work and took calls, spending the bulk of my time actively listening to the hardships constituents faced — everything from a veteran stripped of his benefits to a grandmother unable to support her bedridden grandchild.
I’d never exposed myself to stories like these, and now I was the first to hear them. As an intern, I could only assist in what felt like the small ways — pointing out local job offerings, printing information on free ESL classes, reaching out to non-profits. But to a community facing an onslaught of intense struggles, I realized that something as small as these actions could have vast impacts. Seeing the immediate consequences of my actions inspired me. Throughout that summer, I internalized my community’s daily challenges in a new light. I began to stop seeing the prevalent underemployment and cramped living quarters less as sources of shame. Instead, I saw them as realities that had to be acknowledged, but could ultimately be remedied. I also realized the benefits of the Bangladeshi culture I had been so ashamed of. My Bangla language skills were an asset to the office, and my understanding of Bangladeshi etiquette allowed for smooth communication between office staff and its constituents. As I helped my neighbors navigate city services, I saw my heritage with pride — a perspective I never expected to have.
I can now appreciate the value of my unique culture and background, and of living with less. This perspective offers room for progress, community integration, and a future worth fighting for. My time with Assemblyman Sepulveda’s office taught me that I can be a change agent in enabling this progression. Far from being ashamed of my community, I want to someday return to local politics in the Bronx to continue helping others access the American Dream. I hope to help my community appreciate the opportunity to make progress together. By embracing reality, I learned to live it. Along the way, I discovered one thing: life is good, but we can make it better.
This student’s passion for social justice and civic duty shines through in this essay because of how honest it is. Sharing their personal experience with immigrating, moving around, being an outsider, and finding a community allows us to see the hardships this student has faced and builds empathy towards their situation. However, what really makes it strong is that they go beyond describing the difficulties they faced and explain the mental impact it had on them as a child: Shame prickled down my spine. I distanced myself from my heritage, rejecting the traditional panjabis worn on Eid and refusing the torkari we ate for dinner every day.
The rejection of their culture presented at the beginning of the essay creates a nice juxtaposition with the student’s view in the latter half of the essay and helps demonstrate how they have matured. They use their experience interning as a way to delve into a change in their thought process about their culture and show how their passion for social justice began. Using this experience as a mechanism to explore their thoughts and feelings is an excellent example of how items that are included elsewhere on your application should be incorporated into your essay.
This essay prioritizes emotions and personal views over specific anecdotes. Although there are details and certain moments incorporated throughout to emphasize the author’s points, the main focus remains on the student and how they grapple with their culture and identity.
One area for improvement is the conclusion. Although the forward-looking approach is a nice way to end an essay focused on social justice, it would be nice to include more details and imagery in the conclusion. How does the student want to help their community? What government position do they see themselves holding one day?
A more impactful ending might look like the student walking into their office at the New York City Housing Authority in 15 years and looking at the plans to build a new development in the Bronx just blocks away from where the grew up that would provide quality housing to people in their Bangladeshi community. They would smile while thinking about how far they have come from that young kid who used to be ashamed of their culture.
Essay Example #3: Why Medicine
I took my first trip to China to visit my cousin Anna in July of 2014. Distance had kept us apart, but when we were together, we fell into all of our old inside jokes and caught up on each other’s lives. Her sparkling personality and optimistic attitude always brought a smile to my face. This time, however, my heart broke when I saw the effects of her brain cancer; she had suffered from a stroke that paralyzed her left side. She was still herself in many ways, but I could see that the damage to her brain made things difficult for her. I stayed by her every day, providing the support she needed, whether assisting her with eating and drinking, reading to her, or just watching “Friends.” During my flight back home, sorrow and helplessness overwhelmed me. Would I ever see Anna again? Could I have done more to make Anna comfortable? I wished I could stay in China longer to care for her. As I deplaned, I wondered if I could transform my grief to help other children and teenagers in the US who suffered as Anna did.
The day after I got home, as jet lag dragged me awake a few minutes after midnight, I remembered hearing about the Family Reach Foundation (FRF) and its work with children going through treatments at the local hospital and their families. I began volunteering in the FRF’s Children’s Activity Room, where I play with children battling cancer. Volunteering has both made me appreciate my own health and also cherish the new relationships I build with the children and families. We play sports, make figures out of playdoh, and dress up. When they take on the roles of firefighters or fairies, we all get caught up in the game; for that time, they forget the sanitized, stark, impersonal walls of the pediatric oncology ward. Building close relationships with them and seeing them giggle and laugh is so rewarding — I love watching them grow and get better throughout their course of treatment.
Hearing from the parents about their children’s condition and seeing the children recover inspired me to consider medical research. To get started, I enrolled in a summer collegelevel course in Abnormal Psychology. There I worked with Catelyn, a rising college senior, on a data analysis project regarding Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). Together, we examined the neurological etiology of DID by studying four fMRI and PET cases. I fell in love with gathering data and analyzing the results and was amazed by our final product: several stunning brain images showcasing the areas of hyper and hypoactivity in brains affected by DID. Desire quickly followed my amazement — I want to continue this project and study more brains. Their complexity, delicacy, and importance to every aspect of life fascinate me. Successfully completing this research project gave me a sense of hope; I know I am capable of participating in a large scale research project and potentially making a difference in someone else’s life through my research.
Anna’s diagnosis inspired me to begin volunteering at FRF; from there, I discovered my desire to help people further by contributing to medical research. As my research interest blossomed, I realized that it’s no coincidence that I want to study brains—after all, Anna suffered from brain cancer. Reflecting on these experiences this past year and a half, I see that everything I’ve done is connected. Sadly, a few months after I returned from China, Anna passed away. I am still sad, but as I run a toy truck across the floor and watch one of the little patients’ eyes light up, I imagine that she would be proud of my commitment to pursue medicine and study the brain.
This essay has a very strong emotional core that tugs at the heart strings and makes the reader feel invested. Writing about sickness can be difficult and doesn’t always belong in a personal statement, but in this case it works well because the focus is on how this student cared for her cousin and dealt with the grief and emotions surrounding her condition. Writing about the compassion she showed and the doubts and concerns that filled her mind keeps the focus on the author and her personality.
This continues when she again discusses the activities she did with the kids at FRF and the personal reflection this experience allowed her to have. For example, she writes: Volunteering has both made me appreciate my own health and also cherish the new relationships I build with the children and families. We play sports, make figures out of playdoh, and dress up.
Concluding the essay with the sad story of her cousin’s passing brings the essay full circle and returns to the emotional heart of the piece to once again build a connection with the reader. However, it finishes on a hopeful note and demonstrates how this student has been able to turn a tragic experience into a source of lifelong inspiration.
One thing this essay should be cognizant of is that personal statements should not read as summaries of your extracurricular resume. Although this essay doesn’t fully fall into that trap, it does describe two key extracurriculars the student participated in. However, the inclusion of such a strong emotional core running throughout the essay helps keep the focus on the student and her thoughts and feelings during these activities.
To avoid making this mistake, make sure you have a common thread running through your essay and the extracurriculars provide support to the story you are trying to tell, rather than crafting a story around your activities. And, as this essay does, make sure there is lots of personal reflection and feelings weaved throughout to focus attention to you rather than your extracurriculars.
Essay Example #4: Love of Writing
“I want to be a writer.” This had been my answer to every youthful discussion with the adults in my life about what I would do when I grew up. As early as elementary school, I remember reading my writing pieces aloud to an audience at “Author of the Month” ceremonies. Bearing this goal in mind, and hoping to gain some valuable experience, I signed up for a journalism class during my freshman year. Despite my love for writing, I initially found myself uninterested in the subject and I struggled to enjoy the class. When I thought of writing, I imagined lyrical prose, profound poetry, and thrilling plot lines. Journalism required a laconic style and orderly structure, and I found my teacher’s assignments formulaic and dull. That class shook my confidence as a writer. I was uncertain if I should continue in it for the rest of my high school career.
Despite my misgivings, I decided that I couldn’t make a final decision on whether to quit journalism until I had some experience working for a paper outside of the classroom. The following year, I applied to be a staff reporter on our school newspaper. I hoped this would help me become more self-driven and creative, rather than merely writing articles that my teacher assigned. To my surprise, my time on staff was worlds away from what I experienced in the journalism class. Although I was unaccustomed to working in a fast-paced environment and initially found it burdensome to research and complete high-quality stories in a relatively short amount of time, I also found it exciting. I enjoyed learning more about topics and events on campus that I did not know much about; some of my stories that I covered in my first semester concerned a chess tournament, a food drive, and a Spanish immersion party. I relished in the freedom I had to explore and learn, and to write more independently than I could in a classroom.
Although I enjoyed many aspects of working for the paper immediately, reporting also pushed me outside of my comfort zone. I am a shy person, and speaking with people I did not know intimidated me. During my first interview, I met with the basketball coach to prepare for a story about the team’s winning streak. As I approached his office, I felt everything from my toes to my tongue freeze into a solid block, and I could hardly get out my opening questions. Fortunately, the coach was very kind and helped me through the conversation. Encouraged, I prepared for my next interview with more confidence. After a few weeks of practice, I even started to look forward to interviewing people on campus. That first journalism class may have bored me, but even if journalism in practice was challenging, it was anything but tedious.
Over the course of that year, I grew to love writing for our school newspaper. Reporting made me aware of my surroundings, and made me want to know more about current events on campus and in the town where I grew up. By interacting with people all over campus, I came to understand the breadth of individuals and communities that make up my high school. I felt far more connected to diverse parts of my school through my work as a journalist, and I realized that journalism gave me a window into seeing beyond my own experiences. The style of news writing may be different from what I used to think “writing” meant, but I learned that I can still derive exciting plots from events that may have gone unnoticed if not for my stories. I no longer struggle to approach others, and truly enjoy getting to know people and recognizing their accomplishments through my writing. Becoming a writer may be a difficult path, but it is as rewarding as I hoped when I was young.
This essay is clearly structured in a manner that makes it flow very nicely and contributes to its success. It starts with a quote to draw in the reader and show this student’s life-long passion for writing. Then it addresses the challenges of facing new, unfamiliar territory and how this student overcame it. Finally, it concludes by reflecting on this eye-opening experience and a nod to their younger self from the introduction. Having a well-thought out and sequential structure with clear transitions makes it extremely easy for the reader to follow along and take away the main idea.
Another positive aspect of the essay is the use of strong and expressive language. Sentences like “ When I thought of writing, I imagined lyrical prose, profound poetry, and thrilling plot lines ” stand out because of the intentional use of words like “lyrical”, “profound”, and “thrilling” to convey the student’s love of writing. The author also uses an active voice to capture the readers’ attention and keep us engaged. They rely on their language and diction to reveal details to the reader, for instance saying “ I felt everything from my toes to my tongue freeze into a solid block ” to describe feeling nervous.
This essay is already very strong, so there isn’t much that needs to be changed. One thing that could take the essay from great to outstanding would be to throw in more quotes, internal dialogue, and sensory descriptors.
It would be nice to see the nerves they felt interviewing the coach by including dialogue like “ Um…I want to interview you about…uh…”. They could have shown their original distaste for journalism by narrating the thoughts running through their head. The fast-paced environment of their newspaper could have come to life with descriptions about the clacking of keyboards and the whirl of people running around laying out articles.
Essay Example #5: Starting a Fire
Was I no longer the beloved daughter of nature, whisperer of trees? Knee-high rubber boots, camouflage, bug spray—I wore the garb and perfume of a proud wild woman, yet there I was, hunched over the pathetic pile of stubborn sticks, utterly stumped, on the verge of tears. As a child, I had considered myself a kind of rustic princess, a cradler of spiders and centipedes, who was serenaded by mourning doves and chickadees, who could glide through tick-infested meadows and emerge Lyme-free. I knew the cracks of the earth like the scars on my own rough palms. Yet here I was, ten years later, incapable of performing the most fundamental outdoor task: I could not, for the life of me, start a fire.
Furiously I rubbed the twigs together—rubbed and rubbed until shreds of skin flaked from my fingers. No smoke. The twigs were too young, too sticky-green; I tossed them away with a shower of curses, and began tearing through the underbrush in search of a more flammable collection. My efforts were fruitless. Livid, I bit a rejected twig, determined to prove that the forest had spurned me, offering only young, wet bones that would never burn. But the wood cracked like carrots between my teeth—old, brittle, and bitter. Roaring and nursing my aching palms, I retreated to the tent, where I sulked and awaited the jeers of my family.
Rattling their empty worm cans and reeking of fat fish, my brother and cousins swaggered into the campsite. Immediately, they noticed the minor stick massacre by the fire pit and called to me, their deep voices already sharp with contempt.
“Where’s the fire, Princess Clara?” they taunted. “Having some trouble?” They prodded me with the ends of the chewed branches and, with a few effortless scrapes of wood on rock, sparked a red and roaring flame. My face burned long after I left the fire pit. The camp stank of salmon and shame.
In the tent, I pondered my failure. Was I so dainty? Was I that incapable? I thought of my hands, how calloused and capable they had been, how tender and smooth they had become. It had been years since I’d kneaded mud between my fingers; instead of scaling a white pine, I’d practiced scales on my piano, my hands softening into those of a musician—fleshy and sensitive. And I’d gotten glasses, having grown horrifically nearsighted; long nights of dim lighting and thick books had done this. I couldn’t remember the last time I had lain down on a hill, barefaced, and seen the stars without having to squint. Crawling along the edge of the tent, a spider confirmed my transformation—he disgusted me, and I felt an overwhelming urge to squash him.
Yet, I realized I hadn’t really changed—I had only shifted perspective. I still eagerly explored new worlds, but through poems and prose rather than pastures and puddles. I’d grown to prefer the boom of a bass over that of a bullfrog, learned to coax a different kind of fire from wood, having developed a burn for writing rhymes and scrawling hypotheses.
That night, I stayed up late with my journal and wrote about the spider I had decided not to kill. I had tolerated him just barely, only shrieking when he jumped—it helped to watch him decorate the corners of the tent with his delicate webs, knowing that he couldn’t start fires, either. When the night grew cold and the embers died, my words still smoked—my hands burned from all that scrawling—and even when I fell asleep, the ideas kept sparking—I was on fire, always on fire.
This student is an excellent writer, which allows a simple story to be outstandingly compelling. The author articulates her points beautifully and creatively through her immense use of details and figurative language. Lines like “a rustic princess, a cradler of spiders and centipedes, who was serenaded by mourning doves and chickadees,” and “rubbed and rubbed until shreds of skin flaked from my fingers,” create vivid images that draw the reader in.
The flowery and descriptive prose also contributes to the nice juxtaposition between the old Clara and the new Clara. The latter half of the essay contrasts elements of nature with music and writing to demonstrate how natural these interests are for her now. This sentence perfectly encapsulates the contrast she is trying to build: “It had been years since I’d kneaded mud between my fingers; instead of scaling a white pine, I’d practiced scales on my piano, my hands softening into those of a musician—fleshy and sensitive.”
In addition to being well-written, this essay is thematically cohesive. It begins with the simple introduction “Fire!” and ends with the following image: “When the night grew cold and the embers died, my words still smoked—my hands burned from all that scrawling—and even when I fell asleep, the ideas kept sparking—I was on fire, always on fire.” This full-circle approach leaves readers satisfied and impressed.
There is very little this essay should change, however one thing to be cautious about is having an essay that is overly-descriptive. We know from the essay that this student likes to read and write, and depending on other elements of her application, it might make total sense to have such a flowery and ornate writing style. However, your personal statement needs to reflect your voice as well as your personality. If you would never use language like this in conversation or your writing, don’t put it in your personal statement. Make sure there is a balance between eloquence and your personal voice.
Essay Example #6: Dedicating a Track
“Getting beat is one thing – it’s part of competing – but I want no part in losing.” Coach Rob Stark’s motto never fails to remind me of his encouragement on early-morning bus rides to track meets around the state. I’ve always appreciated the phrase, but an experience last June helped me understand its more profound, universal meaning.
Stark, as we affectionately call him, has coached track at my high school for 25 years. His care, dedication, and emphasis on developing good character has left an enduring impact on me and hundreds of other students. Not only did he help me discover my talent and love for running, but he also taught me the importance of commitment and discipline and to approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running. When I learned a neighboring high school had dedicated their track to a longtime coach, I felt that Stark deserved similar honors.
Our school district’s board of education indicated they would only dedicate our track to Stark if I could demonstrate that he was extraordinary. I took charge and mobilized my teammates to distribute petitions, reach out to alumni, and compile statistics on the many team and individual champions Stark had coached over the years. We received astounding support, collecting almost 3,000 signatures and pages of endorsements from across the community. With help from my teammates, I presented this evidence to the board.
They didn’t bite.
Most members argued that dedicating the track was a low priority. Knowing that we had to act quickly to convince them of its importance, I called a team meeting where we drafted a rebuttal for the next board meeting. To my surprise, they chose me to deliver it. I was far from the best public speaker in the group, and I felt nervous about going before the unsympathetic board again. However, at that second meeting, I discovered that I enjoy articulating and arguing for something that I’m passionate about.
Public speaking resembles a cross country race. Walking to the starting line, you have to trust your training and quell your last minute doubts. When the gun fires, you can’t think too hard about anything; your performance has to be instinctual, natural, even relaxed. At the next board meeting, the podium was my starting line. As I walked up to it, familiar butterflies fluttered in my stomach. Instead of the track stretching out in front of me, I faced the vast audience of teachers, board members, and my teammates. I felt my adrenaline build, and reassured myself: I’ve put in the work, my argument is powerful and sound. As the board president told me to introduce myself, I heard, “runners set” in the back of my mind. She finished speaking, and Bang! The brief silence was the gunshot for me to begin.
The next few minutes blurred together, but when the dust settled, I knew from the board members’ expressions and the audience’s thunderous approval that I had run quite a race. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough; the board voted down our proposal. I was disappointed, but proud of myself, my team, and our collaboration off the track. We stood up for a cause we believed in, and I overcame my worries about being a leader. Although I discovered that changing the status quo through an elected body can be a painstakingly difficult process and requires perseverance, I learned that I enjoy the challenges this effort offers. Last month, one of the school board members joked that I had become a “regular” – I now often show up to meetings to advocate for a variety of causes, including better environmental practices in cafeterias and safer equipment for athletes.
Just as Stark taught me, I worked passionately to achieve my goal. I may have been beaten when I appealed to the board, but I certainly didn’t lose, and that would have made Stark proud.
This essay effectively conveys this student’s compassion for others, initiative, and determination—all great qualities to exemplify in a personal statement!
Although they rely on telling us a lot of what happened up until the board meeting, the use of running a race (their passion) as a metaphor for public speaking provides a lot of insight into the fear that this student overcame to work towards something bigger than themself. Comparing a podium to the starting line, the audience to the track, and silence to the gunshot is a nice way of demonstrating this student’s passion for cross country running without making that the focus of the story.
The essay does a nice job of coming full circle at the end by explaining what the quote from the beginning meant to them after this experience. Without explicitly saying “ I now know that what Stark actually meant is…” they rely on the strength of their argument above to make it obvious to the reader what it means to get beat but not lose.
One of the biggest areas of improvement in the intro, however, is how the essay tells us Stark’s impact rather than showing us: His care, dedication, and emphasis on developing good character has left an enduring impact on me and hundreds of other students. Not only did he help me discover my talent and love for running, but he also taught me the importance of commitment and discipline and to approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running.
The writer could’ve helped us feel a stronger emotional connection to Stark if they had included examples of Stark’s qualities, rather than explicitly stating them. For example, they could’ve written something like: Stark was the kind of person who would give you gas money if you told him your parents couldn’t afford to pick you up from practice. And he actually did that—several times. At track meets, alumni regularly would come talk to him and tell him how he’d changed their lives. Before Stark, I was ambivalent about running and was on the JV team, but his encouragement motivated me to run longer and harder and eventually make varsity. Because of him, I approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running.
Essay Example #7: Body Image and Eating Disorders
I press the “discover” button on my Instagram app, hoping to find enticing pictures to satisfy my boredom. Scrolling through, I see funny videos and mouth-watering pictures of food. However, one image stops me immediately. A fit teenage girl with a “perfect body” relaxes in a bikini on a beach. Beneath it, I see a slew of flattering comments. I shake with disapproval over the image’s unrealistic quality. However, part of me still wants to have a body like hers so that others will make similar comments to me.
I would like to resolve a silent issue that harms many teenagers and adults: negative self image and low self-esteem in a world where social media shapes how people view each other. When people see the façades others wear to create an “ideal” image, they can develop poor thought patterns rooted in negative self-talk. The constant comparisons to “perfect” others make people feel small. In this new digital age, it is hard to distinguish authentic from artificial representations.
When I was 11, I developed anorexia nervosa. Though I was already thin, I wanted to be skinny like the models that I saw on the magazine covers on the grocery store stands. Little did I know that those models probably also suffered from disorders, and that photoshop erased their flaws. I preferred being underweight to being healthy. No matter how little I ate or how thin I was, I always thought that I was too fat. I became obsessed with the number on the scale and would try to eat the least that I could without my parents urging me to take more. Fortunately, I stopped engaging in anorexic behaviors before middle school. However, my underlying mental habits did not change. The images that had provoked my disorder in the first place were still a constant presence in my life.
By age 15, I was in recovery from anorexia, but suffered from depression. While I used to only compare myself to models, the growth of social media meant I also compared myself to my friends and acquaintances. I felt left out when I saw my friends’ excitement about lake trips they had taken without me. As I scrolled past endless photos of my flawless, thin classmates with hundreds of likes and affirming comments, I felt my jealousy spiral. I wanted to be admired and loved by other people too. However, I felt that I could never be enough. I began to hate the way that I looked, and felt nothing in my life was good enough. I wanted to be called “perfect” and “body goals,” so I tried to only post at certain times of day to maximize my “likes.” When that didn’t work, I started to feel too anxious to post anything at all.
Body image insecurities and social media comparisons affect thousands of people – men, women, children, and adults – every day. I am lucky – after a few months of my destructive social media habits, I came across a video that pointed out the illusory nature of social media; many Instagram posts only show off good things while people hide their flaws. I began going to therapy, and recovered from my depression. To address the problem of self-image and social media, we can all focus on what matters on the inside and not what is on the surface. As an effort to become healthy internally, I started a club at my school to promote clean eating and radiating beauty from within. It has helped me grow in my confidence, and today I’m not afraid to show others my struggles by sharing my experience with eating disorders. Someday, I hope to make this club a national organization to help teenagers and adults across the country. I support the idea of body positivity and embracing difference, not “perfection.” After all, how can we be ourselves if we all look the same?
This essay covers the difficult topics of eating disorders and mental health. If you’re thinking about covering similar topics in your essay, we recommend reading our post Should You Talk About Mental Health in College Essays?
The short answer is that, yes, you can talk about mental health, but it can be risky. If you do go that route, it’s important to focus on what you learned from the experience.
The strength of this essay is the student’s vulnerability, in excerpts such as this: I wanted to be admired and loved by other people too. However, I felt that I could never be enough. I began to hate the way that I looked, and felt nothing in my life was good enough. I wanted to be called “perfect” and “body goals,” so I tried to only post at certain times of day to maximize my “likes.”
The student goes on to share how they recovered from their depression through an eye-opening video and therapy sessions, and they’re now helping others find their self-worth as well. It’s great that this essay looks towards the future and shares the writer’s goals of making their club a national organization; we can see their ambition and compassion.
The main weakness of this essay is that it doesn’t focus enough on their recovery process, which is arguably the most important part. They could’ve told us more about the video they watched or the process of starting their club and the interactions they’ve had with other members. Especially when sharing such a vulnerable topic, there should be vulnerability in the recovery process too. That way, the reader can fully appreciate all that this student has overcome.
Essay Example #8: Becoming a Coach
”Advanced females ages 13 to 14 please proceed to staging with your coaches at this time.” Skittering around the room, eyes wide and pleading, I frantically explained my situation to nearby coaches. The seconds ticked away in my head; every polite refusal increased my desperation.
Despair weighed me down. I sank to my knees as a stream of competitors, coaches, and officials flowed around me. My dojang had no coach, and the tournament rules prohibited me from competing without one.
Although I wanted to remain strong, doubts began to cloud my mind. I could not help wondering: what was the point of perfecting my skills if I would never even compete? The other members of my team, who had found coaches minutes earlier, attempted to comfort me, but I barely heard their words. They couldn’t understand my despair at being left on the outside, and I never wanted them to understand.
Since my first lesson 12 years ago, the members of my dojang have become family. I have watched them grow up, finding my own happiness in theirs. Together, we have honed our kicks, blocks, and strikes. We have pushed one another to aim higher and become better martial artists. Although my dojang had searched for a reliable coach for years, we had not found one. When we attended competitions in the past, my teammates and I had always gotten lucky and found a sympathetic coach. Now, I knew this practice was unsustainable. It would devastate me to see the other members of my dojang in my situation, unable to compete and losing hope as a result. My dojang needed a coach, and I decided it was up to me to find one.
I first approached the adults in the dojang – both instructors and members’ parents. However, these attempts only reacquainted me with polite refusals. Everyone I asked told me they couldn’t devote multiple weekends per year to competitions. I soon realized that I would have become the coach myself.
At first, the inner workings of tournaments were a mystery to me. To prepare myself for success as a coach, I spent the next year as an official and took coaching classes on the side. I learned everything from motivational strategies to technical, behind-the-scenes components of Taekwondo competitions. Though I emerged with new knowledge and confidence in my capabilities, others did not share this faith.
Parents threw me disbelieving looks when they learned that their children’s coach was only a child herself. My self-confidence was my armor, deflecting their surly glances. Every armor is penetrable, however, and as the relentless barrage of doubts pounded my resilience, it began to wear down. I grew unsure of my own abilities.
Despite the attack, I refused to give up. When I saw the shining eyes of the youngest students preparing for their first competition, I knew I couldn’t let them down. To quit would be to set them up to be barred from competing like I was. The knowledge that I could solve my dojang’s longtime problem motivated me to overcome my apprehension.
Now that my dojang flourishes at competitions, the attacks on me have weakened, but not ended. I may never win the approval of every parent; at times, I am still tormented by doubts, but I find solace in the fact that members of my dojang now only worry about competing to the best of their abilities.
Now, as I arrive at a tournament with my students, I close my eyes and remember the past. I visualize the frantic search for a coach and the chaos amongst my teammates as we competed with one another to find coaches before the staging calls for our respective divisions. I open my eyes to the exact opposite scene. Lacking a coach hurt my ability to compete, but I am proud to know that no member of my dojang will have to face that problem again.
This essay begins with an in-the-moment narrative that really illustrates the chaos of looking for a coach last-minute. We feel the writer’s emotions, particularly her dejectedness, at not being able to compete. Starting an essay in media res is a great way to capture the attention of your readers and build anticipation for what comes next.
Through this essay, we can see how gutsy and determined the student is in deciding to become a coach themselves. She shows us these characteristics through their actions, rather than explicitly telling us: To prepare myself for success as a coach, I spent the next year as an official and took coaching classes on the side. Also, by discussing the opposition she faced and how it affected her, the student is open and vulnerable about the reality of the situation.
The essay comes full circle as the author recalls the frantic situations in seeking out a coach, but this is no longer a concern for them and their team. Overall, this essay is extremely effective in painting this student as mature, bold, and compassionate.
The biggest thing this essay needs to work on is showing not telling. Throughout the essay, the student tells us that she “emerged with new knowledge and confidence,” she “grew unsure of her own abilities,” and she “refused to give up”. What we really want to know is what this looks like.
Instead of saying she “emerged with new knowledge and confidence” she should have shared how she taught a new move to a fellow team-member without hesitation. Rather than telling us she “grew unsure of her own abilities” she should have shown what that looked like by including her internal dialogue and rhetorical questions that ran through her mind. She could have demonstrated what “refusing to give up” looks like by explaining how she kept learning coaching techniques on her own, turned to a mentor for advice, or devised a plan to win over the trust of parents.
Essay Example #9: Eritrea
No one knows where Eritrea is.
On the first day of school, for the past nine years, I would pensively stand in front of a class, a teacher, a stranger waiting for the inevitable question: Where are you from?
I smile politely, my dimples accentuating my ambiguous features. “Eritrea,” I answer promptly and proudly. But I am always prepared. Before their expression can deepen into confusion, ready to ask “where is that,” I elaborate, perhaps with a fleeting hint of exasperation, “East Africa, near Ethiopia.”
Sometimes, I single out the key-shaped hermit nation on a map, stunning teachers who have “never had a student from there!” Grinning, I resist the urge to remark, “You didn’t even know it existed until two minutes ago!”
Eritrea is to the East of Ethiopia, its arid coastline clutches the lucrative Red Sea. Battle scars litter the ancient streets – the colonial Italian architecture lathered with bullet holes, the mosques mangled with mortar shells. Originally part of the world’s first Christian kingdom, Eritrea passed through the hands of colonial Italy, Britain, and Ethiopia for over a century, until a bloody thirty year war of Independence liberated us.
But these are facts that anyone can know with a quick Google search. These are facts that I have memorised and compounded, first from my Grandmother and now from pristine books borrowed from the library.
No historical narrative, however, can adequately capture what Eritrea is. No one knows the aroma of bushels of potatoes, tomatoes, and garlic – still covered in dirt – that leads you to the open-air market. No one knows the poignant scent of spices, arranged in orange piles reminiscent of compacted dunes. No one knows how to haggle stubborn herders for sheep and roosters for Christmas celebrations as deliberately as my mother. No one can replicate the perfect balance of spices in dorho and tsebhi as well as my grandmother, her gnarly hands stirring the pot with ancient precision (chastising my clumsy knife work with the potatoes). It’s impossible to learn when the injera is ready – the exact moment you have to lift the lid of the mogogo. Do it too early (or too late) and the flatbread becomes mangled and gross. It is a sixth sense passed through matriarchal lineages.
There are no sources that catalogue the scent of incense that wafts through the sunlit porch on St. Michael’s; no films that can capture the luminescence of hundreds of flaming bonfires that fluoresce the sidewalks on Kudus Yohannes, as excited children chant Ge’ez proverbs whose origin has been lost to time. You cannot learn the familiarity of walking beneath the towering Gothic figure of the Enda Mariam Cathedral, the crowds undulating to the ringing of the archaic bells. I have memorized the sound of the rains hounding the metal roof during kiremti , the heat of the sun pounding against the Toyota’s window as we sped down towards Ghinda , the opulent brilliance of the stars twinkling in a sky untainted by light pollution, the scent of warm rolls of bani wafting through the streets at precisely 6 o’clock each day…
I fill my flimsy sketchbook with pictures from my memory. My hand remembers the shapes of the hibiscus drifting in the wind, the outline of my grandmother (affectionately nicknamed a’abaye ) leaning over the garden, the bizarre architecture of the Fiat Tagliero . I dice the vegetables with movements handed down from generations. My nose remembers the scent of frying garlic, the sourness of the warm tayta , the sharpness of the mit’mt’a …
This knowledge is intrinsic. “I am Eritrean,” I repeat. “I am proud.” Within me is an encyclopedia of history, culture, and idealism.
Eritrea is the coffee made from scratch, the spices drying in the sun, the priests and nuns. Eritrea is wise, filled with ambition, and unseen potential. Eritrea isn’t a place, it’s an identity.
This is an exceptional essay that provides a window into this student’s culture that really makes their love for their country and heritage leap off the page. The sheer level of details and sensory descriptors this student is able to fit in this space makes the essay stand out. From the smells, to the traditions, sounds, and sights, the author encapsulates all the glory of Eritrea for the reader.
The vivid images this student is able to create for the reader, whether it is having the tedious conversation with every teacher or cooking in their grandmother’s kitchen, transports us into the story and makes us feel like we are there in the moment with the student. This is a prime example of an essay that shows , not tells.
Besides the amazing imagery, the use of shorter paragraphs also contributes to how engaging this essay is. Employing this tactic helps break up the text to make it more readable and it isolates ideas so they stick out more than if they were enveloped in a large paragraph.
Overall, this is a really strong essay that brings to life this student’s heritage through its use of vivid imagery. This essay exemplifies what it means to show not tell in your writing, and it is a great example of how you can write an intimate personal statement without making yourself the primary focus of your essay.
There is very little this essay should improve upon, but one thing the student might consider would be to inject more personal reflection into their response. Although we can clearly take away their deep love and passion for their homeland and culture, the essay would be a bit more personal if they included the emotions and feelings they associate with the various aspects of Eritrea. For example, the way their heart swells with pride when their grandmother praises their ability to cook a flatbread or the feeling of serenity when they hear the bells ring out from the cathedral. Including personal details as well as sensory ones would create a wonderful balance of imagery and reflection.
Essay Example #10: Journaling
Flipping past dozens of colorful entries in my journal, I arrive at the final blank sheet. I press my pen lightly to the page, barely scratching its surface to create a series of loops stringing together into sentences. Emotions spill out, and with their release, I feel lightness in my chest. The stream of thoughts slows as I reach the bottom of the page, and I gently close the cover of the worn book: another journal finished.
I add the journal to the stack of eleven books on my nightstand. Struck by the bittersweet sensation of closing a chapter of my life, I grab the notebook at the bottom of the pile to reminisce.
“I want to make a flying mushen to fly in space and your in it” – October 2008
Pulling back the cover of my first Tinkerbell-themed diary, the prompt “My Hopes and Dreams” captures my attention. Though “machine” is misspelled in my scribbled response, I see the beginnings of my past obsession with outer space. At the age of five, I tore through novels about the solar system, experimented with rockets built from plastic straws, and rented Space Shuttle films from Blockbuster to satisfy my curiosities. While I chased down answers to questions as limitless as the universe, I fell in love with learning. Eight journals later, the same relentless curiosity brought me to an airplane descending on San Francisco Bay.
“I wish I had infinite sunsets” – July 2019
I reach for the charcoal notepad near the top of the pile and open to the first page: my flight to the Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes. While I was excited to explore bioengineering, anxiety twisted in my stomach as I imagined my destination, unsure of whether I could overcome my shyness and connect with others.
With each new conversation, the sweat on my palms became less noticeable, and I met students from 23 different countries. Many of the moments where I challenged myself socially revolved around the third story deck of the Jerry house. A strange medley of English, Arabic, and Mandarin filled the summer air as my friends and I gathered there every evening, and dialogues at sunset soon became moments of bliss. In our conversations about cultural differences, the possibility of an afterlife, and the plausibility of far-fetched conspiracy theories, I learned to voice my opinion. As I was introduced to different viewpoints, these moments challenged my understanding of the world around me. In my final entries from California, I find excitement to learn from others and increased confidence, a tool that would later allow me to impact my community.
“The beauty in a tower of cans” – June 2020
Returning my gaze to the stack of journals, I stretch to take the floral-patterned book sitting on top. I flip through, eventually finding the beginnings of the organization I created during the outbreak of COVID-19. Since then, Door-to-Door Deliveries has woven its way through my entries and into reality, allowing me to aid high-risk populations through free grocery delivery.
With the confidence I gained the summer before, I took action when seeing others in need rather than letting my shyness hold me back. I reached out to local churches and senior centers to spread word of our services and interacted with customers through our website and social media pages. To further expand our impact, we held two food drives, and I mustered the courage to ask for donations door-to-door. In a tower of canned donations, I saw the value of reaching out to help others and realized my own potential to impact the world around me.
I delicately close the journal in my hands, smiling softly as the memories reappear, one after another. Reaching under my bed, I pull out a fresh notebook and open to its first sheet. I lightly press my pen to the page, “And so begins the next chapter…”
The structuring of this essay makes it easy and enjoyable to read. The student effectively organizes their various life experiences around their tower of journals, which centers the reader and makes the different stories easy to follow. Additionally, the student engages quotes from their journals—and unique formatting of the quotes—to signal that they are moving in time and show us which memory we should follow them to.
Thematically, the student uses the idea of shyness to connect the different memories they draw out of their journals. As the student describes their experiences overcoming shyness at the Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes and Door-to-Door Deliveries, this essay can be read as an Overcoming Obstacles essay.
At the end of this essay, readers are fully convinced that this student is dedicated (they have committed to journaling every day), thoughtful (journaling is a thoughtful process and, in the essay, the student reflects thoughtfully on the past), and motivated (they flew across the country for a summer program and started a business). These are definitely qualities admissions officers are looking for in applicants!
Although this essay is already exceptionally strong as it’s written, the first journal entry feels out of place compared to the other two entries that discuss the author’s shyness and determination. It works well for the essay to have an entry from when the student was younger to add some humor (with misspelled words) and nostalgia, but if the student had either connected the quote they chose to the idea of overcoming a fear present in the other two anecdotes or if they had picked a different quote all together related to their shyness, it would have made the entire essay feel more cohesive.
Where to Get Your Personal Statement Edited
Do you want feedback on your personal statement? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.
If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!
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4 Tips for Writing a Diversity College Essay
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- How to Write Your Personal Statement | Strategies & Examples
How to Write Your Personal Statement | Strategies & Examples
Published on February 12, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on July 3, 2023.
A personal statement is a short essay of around 500–1,000 words, in which you tell a compelling story about who you are, what drives you, and why you’re applying.
To write a successful personal statement for a graduate school application , don’t just summarize your experience; instead, craft a focused narrative in your own voice. Aim to demonstrate three things:
- Your personality: what are your interests, values, and motivations?
- Your talents: what can you bring to the program?
- Your goals: what do you hope the program will do for you?
This article guides you through some winning strategies to build a strong, well-structured personal statement for a master’s or PhD application. You can download the full examples below.
Urban Planning Psychology History
Table of contents
Getting started with your personal statement, the introduction: start with an attention-grabbing opening, the main body: craft your narrative, the conclusion: look ahead, revising, editing, and proofreading your personal statement, frequently asked questions, other interesting articles.
Before you start writing, the first step is to understand exactly what’s expected of you. If the application gives you a question or prompt for your personal statement, the most important thing is to respond to it directly.
For example, you might be asked to focus on the development of your personal identity; challenges you have faced in your life; or your career motivations. This will shape your focus and emphasis—but you still need to find your own unique approach to answering it.
There’s no universal template for a personal statement; it’s your chance to be creative and let your own voice shine through. But there are strategies you can use to build a compelling, well-structured story.
The first paragraph of your personal statement should set the tone and lead smoothly into the story you want to tell.
Strategy 1: Open with a concrete scene
An effective way to catch the reader’s attention is to set up a scene that illustrates something about your character and interests. If you’re stuck, try thinking about:
- A personal experience that changed your perspective
- A story from your family’s history
- A memorable teacher or learning experience
- An unusual or unexpected encounter
To write an effective scene, try to go beyond straightforward description; start with an intriguing sentence that pulls the reader in, and give concrete details to create a convincing atmosphere.
Strategy 2: Open with your motivations
To emphasize your enthusiasm and commitment, you can start by explaining your interest in the subject you want to study or the career path you want to follow.
Just stating that it interests you isn’t enough: first, you need to figure out why you’re interested in this field:
- Is it a longstanding passion or a recent discovery?
- Does it come naturally or have you had to work hard at it?
- How does it fit into the rest of your life?
- What do you think it contributes to society?
Tips for the introduction
- Don’t start on a cliche: avoid phrases like “Ever since I was a child…” or “For as long as I can remember…”
- Do save the introduction for last. If you’re struggling to come up with a strong opening, leave it aside, and note down any interesting ideas that occur to you as you write the rest of the personal statement.
Once you’ve set up the main themes of your personal statement, you’ll delve into more detail about your experiences and motivations.
To structure the body of your personal statement, there are various strategies you can use.
Strategy 1: Describe your development over time
One of the simplest strategies is to give a chronological overview of key experiences that have led you to apply for graduate school.
- What first sparked your interest in the field?
- Which classes, assignments, classmates, internships, or other activities helped you develop your knowledge and skills?
- Where do you want to go next? How does this program fit into your future plans?
Don’t try to include absolutely everything you’ve done—pick out highlights that are relevant to your application. Aim to craft a compelling narrative that shows how you’ve changed and actively developed yourself.
My interest in psychology was first sparked early in my high school career. Though somewhat scientifically inclined, I found that what interested me most was not the equations we learned about in physics and chemistry, but the motivations and perceptions of my fellow students, and the subtle social dynamics that I observed inside and outside the classroom. I wanted to learn how our identities, beliefs, and behaviours are shaped through our interactions with others, so I decided to major in Social Psychology. My undergraduate studies deepened my understanding of, and fascination with, the interplay between an individual mind and its social context.During my studies, I acquired a solid foundation of knowledge about concepts like social influence and group dynamics, but I also took classes on various topics not strictly related to my major. I was particularly interested in how other fields intersect with psychology—the classes I took on media studies, biology, and literature all enhanced my understanding of psychological concepts by providing different lenses through which to look at the issues involved.
Strategy 2: Own your challenges and obstacles
If your path to graduate school hasn’t been easy or straightforward, you can turn this into a strength, and structure your personal statement as a story of overcoming obstacles.
- Is your social, cultural or economic background underrepresented in the field? Show how your experiences will contribute a unique perspective.
- Do you have gaps in your resume or lower-than-ideal grades? Explain the challenges you faced and how you dealt with them.
Don’t focus too heavily on negatives, but use them to highlight your positive qualities. Resilience, resourcefulness and perseverance make you a promising graduate school candidate.
Growing up working class, urban decay becomes depressingly familiar. The sight of a row of abandoned houses does not surprise me, but it continues to bother me. Since high school, I have been determined to pursue a career in urban planning. While people of my background experience the consequences of urban planning decisions first-hand, we are underrepresented in the field itself. Ironically, given my motivation, my economic background has made my studies challenging. I was fortunate enough to be awarded a scholarship for my undergraduate studies, but after graduation I took jobs in unrelated fields to help support my parents. In the three years since, I have not lost my ambition. Now I am keen to resume my studies, and I believe I can bring an invaluable perspective to the table: that of the people most impacted by the decisions of urban planners.
Strategy 3: Demonstrate your knowledge of the field
Especially if you’re applying for a PhD or another research-focused program, it’s a good idea to show your familiarity with the subject and the department. Your personal statement can focus on the area you want to specialize in and reflect on why it matters to you.
- Reflect on the topics or themes that you’ve focused on in your studies. What draws you to them?
- Discuss any academic achievements, influential teachers, or other highlights of your education.
- Talk about the questions you’d like to explore in your research and why you think they’re important.
The personal statement isn’t a research proposal , so don’t go overboard on detail—but it’s a great opportunity to show your enthusiasm for the field and your capacity for original thinking.
In applying for this research program, my intention is to build on the multidisciplinary approach I have taken in my studies so far, combining knowledge from disparate fields of study to better understand psychological concepts and issues. The Media Psychology program stands out to me as the perfect environment for this kind of research, given its researchers’ openness to collaboration across diverse fields. I am impressed by the department’s innovative interdisciplinary projects that focus on the shifting landscape of media and technology, and I hope that my own work can follow a similarly trailblazing approach. More specifically, I want to develop my understanding of the intersection of psychology and media studies, and explore how media psychology theories and methods might be applied to neurodivergent minds. I am interested not only in media psychology but also in psychological disorders, and how the two interact. This is something I touched on during my undergraduate studies and that I’m excited to delve into further.
Strategy 4: Discuss your professional ambitions
Especially if you’re applying for a more professionally-oriented program (such as an MBA), it’s a good idea to focus on concrete goals and how the program will help you achieve them.
- If your career is just getting started, show how your character is suited to the field, and explain how graduate school will help you develop your talents.
- If you have already worked in the profession, show what you’ve achieved so far, and explain how the program will allow you to take the next step.
- If you are planning a career change, explain what has driven this decision and how your existing experience will help you succeed.
Don’t just state the position you want to achieve. You should demonstrate that you’ve put plenty of thought into your career plans and show why you’re well-suited to this profession.
One thing that fascinated me about the field during my undergraduate studies was the sheer number of different elements whose interactions constitute a person’s experience of an urban environment. Any number of factors could transform the scene I described at the beginning: What if there were no bus route? Better community outreach in the neighborhood? Worse law enforcement? More or fewer jobs available in the area? Some of these factors are out of the hands of an urban planner, but without taking them all into consideration, the planner has an incomplete picture of their task. Through further study I hope to develop my understanding of how these disparate elements combine and interact to create the urban environment. I am interested in the social, psychological and political effects our surroundings have on our lives. My studies will allow me to work on projects directly affecting the kinds of working-class urban communities I know well. I believe I can bring my own experiences, as well as my education, to bear upon the problem of improving infrastructure and quality of life in these communities.
Tips for the main body
- Don’t rehash your resume by trying to summarize everything you’ve done so far; the personal statement isn’t about listing your academic or professional experience, but about reflecting, evaluating, and relating it to broader themes.
- Do make your statements into stories: Instead of saying you’re hard-working and self-motivated, write about your internship where you took the initiative to start a new project. Instead of saying you’ve always loved reading, reflect on a novel or poem that changed your perspective.
Your conclusion should bring the focus back to the program and what you hope to get out of it, whether that’s developing practical skills, exploring intellectual questions, or both.
Emphasize the fit with your specific interests, showing why this program would be the best way to achieve your aims.
Strategy 1: What do you want to know?
If you’re applying for a more academic or research-focused program, end on a note of curiosity: what do you hope to learn, and why do you think this is the best place to learn it?
If there are specific classes or faculty members that you’re excited to learn from, this is the place to express your enthusiasm.
Strategy 2: What do you want to do?
If you’re applying for a program that focuses more on professional training, your conclusion can look to your career aspirations: what role do you want to play in society, and why is this program the best choice to help you get there?
Tips for the conclusion
- Don’t summarize what you’ve already said. You have limited space in a personal statement, so use it wisely!
- Do think bigger than yourself: try to express how your individual aspirations relate to your local community, your academic field, or society more broadly. It’s not just about what you’ll get out of graduate school, but about what you’ll be able to give back.
You’ll be expected to do a lot of writing in graduate school, so make a good first impression: leave yourself plenty of time to revise and polish the text.
Your style doesn’t have to be as formal as other kinds of academic writing, but it should be clear, direct and coherent. Make sure that each paragraph flows smoothly from the last, using topic sentences and transitions to create clear connections between each part.
Don’t be afraid to rewrite and restructure as much as necessary. Since you have a lot of freedom in the structure of a personal statement, you can experiment and move information around to see what works best.
Finally, it’s essential to carefully proofread your personal statement and fix any language errors. Before you submit your application, consider investing in professional personal statement editing . For $150, you have the peace of mind that your personal statement is grammatically correct, strong in term of your arguments, and free of awkward mistakes.
A statement of purpose is usually more formal, focusing on your academic or professional goals. It shouldn’t include anything that isn’t directly relevant to the application.
A personal statement can often be more creative. It might tell a story that isn’t directly related to the application, but that shows something about your personality, values, and motivations.
However, both types of document have the same overall goal: to demonstrate your potential as a graduate student and s how why you’re a great match for the program.
The typical length of a personal statement for graduate school applications is between 500 and 1,000 words.
Different programs have different requirements, so always check if there’s a minimum or maximum length and stick to the guidelines. If there is no recommended word count, aim for no more than 1-2 pages.
If you’re applying to multiple graduate school programs, you should tailor your personal statement to each application.
Some applications provide a prompt or question. In this case, you might have to write a new personal statement from scratch: the most important task is to respond to what you have been asked.
If there’s no prompt or guidelines, you can re-use the same idea for your personal statement – but change the details wherever relevant, making sure to emphasize why you’re applying to this specific program.
If the application also includes other essays, such as a statement of purpose , you might have to revise your personal statement to avoid repeating the same information.
If you want to know more about college essays , academic writing , and AI tools , make sure to check out some of our other language articles with explanations, examples, and quizzes.
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670 Personal Essay Topics & Free Ideas
5 December 2023
last updated
Colleges and high schools require students to complete personal essays. Basically, personal memoirs aim to stimulate readers to act in a specific way. In this case, writers can use unique examples of personal essay topics for starting, organizing, and writing their papers. Personal papers include real stories, involvements, and individual opinions. Besides, authors should give an account of their responsibilities and express thoughts on assigned subjects. Further on, there are two types of personal essay topics, which include secret lives and defining moment narratives. In particular, the first type focuses on essential but mysterious experiences where learners give stories that concentrate on infrequent life tracking down. Moreover, the second type of individual essay theme focuses on a critical moment in a person’s life. In turn, one should follow specific schemes to write personal papers by considering two types of topics. As a result, such aspects make essays outstanding for readers.
General Guidelines on Personal Essay Topics
A personal essay topic refers to a typical assignment for high school and college students, while they can use many examples of personal essay topics for their writing assignments provided in this article. Basically, personal memoirs exist as two major types. The first type focuses on secret lives, where learners provide stories that focus on unusual life pursuits. For example, this composition takes writers behind specific scenes of their unique experiences in odd jobs. Then, the second type of personal essay focuses on defining moments in a person’s life. Hence, personal essay topics resemble not only some secrets of life but also focus on one crucial moment that explains how authors think about their occupation or a unique situation. However, people should not limit their ideas and themes to these two types since other topics also work with writing interesting papers.
Best Personal Essay Topics
- The journey to mastering my favorite hobby.
- Overcoming a fear that changed my life.
- An unforgettable encounter with a stranger.
- Travel experiences that changed my perspective.
- Realizing the importance of mental health.
- My most significant failure and what I learned.
- Living through a natural disaster: My story.
- Memories of my first best friend.
- Growing up in a multicultural household.
- How has volunteering shaped my character?
- Conquering the fear of public speaking.
- Adapting to life after moving to a new city.
- The time I confronted my biggest critic.
- Experiences that taught me the value of time.
- A passion that’s not popular among my peers.
- Lessons learned from an unexpected source.
- The moment I stood up for what was right.
- How I cope with stress: My personal methods.
- Going against societal norms: A personal account.
- Balancing dreams with reality: My experience.
- The importance of self-care in my life.
Easy Personal Essay Topics
- Experiences that shaped my political views.
- The journey to accepting my sexuality.
- Unraveling my unique talent.
- Achieving my most ambitious goal.
- My favorite childhood memory and its impact.
- The role of spirituality in my life.
- Navigating through a major life transition.
- Learning to appreciate my heritage.
- The influence of art on my personal growth.
- Overcoming a personal health challenge.
- An event that triggered personal growth.
- How I managed a personal conflict?
- A time when I had to forgive someone.
- Finding happiness in the little things.
- My journey toward body positivity.
- Experiencing a unique cultural event.
- Lessons I learned from my first job.
- A hobby that helps me relax.
- Reflections on my time in high school.
- The impact of technology on my life.
- A trip that ignited a newfound passion.
- Handling a financial crisis: A personal tale.
Interesting Personal Essay Topics
- Perspectives on global citizenship.
- My journey with mental health.
- Overcoming the fear of failure.
- The impact of family traditions.
- Being an introvert in an extroverted world.
- How minimalism simplified my life.
- Reading books versus eBooks: A personal preference.
- The role of music in my life.
- Unusual habits that keep me sane.
- Body positivity and self-love.
- Finding courage in vulnerability.
- The influence of a favorite teacher.
- Digital detox: My experience and insights.
- Reflecting on a childhood ambition.
- Coping with loss: A personal journey.
- Living a sustainable lifestyle.
- Pets and their effect on our well-being.
- My experience with a unique hobby.
- Choosing passion over a paycheck.
- Embracing change: My personal experience.
- The importance of setting boundaries.
- How have my parents shaped my worldview?
- Volunteering and the act of giving back.
Personal Essay Topics About You
- Discovering my hidden talents: A journey of self-exploration.
- How has adopting a pet changed my life?
- Overcoming personal fears: My story of growth.
- The role of music in my personal development.
- A significant moment of failure that shaped me.
- My experience with cultural diversity and what I learned.
- Navigating through life with a rare medical condition.
- Dealing with loss: How has grief transformed my perspective?
- Lessons learned from my first job experience.
- My lifelong passion for cooking and how it is influenced me.
- Confronting my anxieties: The path toward mental well-being.
- Balancing academics and sports: My high school experience.
- Embracing solitude: The importance of being alone.
- How has volunteering shaped my worldview?
- Reflections on a family tradition that means a lot to me.
- Making a difference: My journey into activism.
- How has moving to a new city opened my mind?
- My evolution as an artist: From doodles to masterpieces.
- Personal growth through the lens of travel experiences.
Personal Essay Topics About Your Experiences
- Unraveling the knots: The toughest challenge I faced in my past relationship.
- How has my first vacation with my ex shaped my understanding of compatibility?
- The subtle art of compromise: Learning to balance my needs with my ex’s.
- Discovering personal growth: What breaking up taught me about myself?
- The day we adopted a pet: Learning about responsibility and care in a relationship.
- When culture clashed: Navigating differences in our backgrounds.
- Chasing dreams: Supporting my ex in their professional journey.
- Navigating long-distance: The trials and triumphs of our virtual relationship.
- Managing conflict: How have we tackled our first major disagreement?
- In pursuit of trust: Mending our relationship after a breach of faith.
- Lessons learned from cooking together on Sundays.
- Cherished holidays: Creating traditions in our shared life.
- Rebuilding bridges: Reconciling after a painful breakup.
- A shared love of music: How have concerts become our refuge?
- Exploring fitness together: How has working out affected our relationship?
- Meeting the parents: The fear, excitement, and aftermath.
- Understanding sacrifice: The most significant compromise I made.
- The joy of shared hobbies: Learning to sail together.
- Fostering independence: Finding personal space in a committed relationship.
- Adapting to change: When my ex’s career shift uprooted our life.
Personal Essay Topics About Relationships
- Discovering love in the unlikeliest places.
- When do friendships turn into romantic relationships?
- Balancing individuality and unity in a relationship.
- Healing after a devastating breakup.
- The silent language of long-term relationships.
- Navigating the challenges of long-distance love.
- The beauty and hardship of platonic love.
- Mending broken bridges: Reconciliation in familial relationships.
- Lessons learned from failed relationships.
- The role of vulnerability in strengthening bonds.
- Being single: A journey of self-love and exploration.
- Age differences and their impact on relationships.
- Integrating cultural backgrounds in relationships.
- Living with your partner: A test of compatibility.
- The intricacies of dating in adulthood.
- Childhood friendships that have stood the test of time.
- The emotional roller coaster of unrequited love.
- Understanding the role of trust in relationships.
- Adapting to change: The evolution of relationships over time.
Personal Essay Topics About Dreams
- Exploring the world through my dreams.
- How do my dreams influence my creative process?
- A specific dream that changed my perspective on life.
- The connection between dreams and subconscious thoughts.
- Lessons I have learned from my recurring dreams.
- Overcoming fears: The role dreams play.
- Nightmares and what they teach us about ourselves.
- Can dreams predict the future? My experience.
- Analyzing the symbolism in my dreams.
- The role of dreams in different cultures: A personal perspective.
- Discovering personal growth through dream journaling.
- How has lucid dreaming expanded my self-awareness?
- Dreams and their impact on my mental health.
- My journey with dream interpretation: Successes and challenges.
- Unforgettable dream experiences that have left lasting impressions.
- The relationship between my dreams and my waking life.
- Dealing with loss and grief through dreams.
- Diving into the science of dreams: A personal inquiry.
- My personal endeavors in dream incubation: Seeking solutions in sleep.
- Revisiting childhood through dreams: A voyage of self-discovery.
Personal Narrative Essay Topics
- My journey through learning a new language.
- Overcoming the biggest challenge in my life.
- The day I stood up for what was right.
- An unforgettable experience with a stranger.
- Exploring my heritage during a visit to my ancestral homeland.
- A life-changing experience on my first solo trip.
- Memories from my favorite childhood place.
- My perspective on life after a near-death experience.
- How has my favorite book shaped my personality?
- Understanding the meaning of friendship from a surprising source.
- My transformative experience while volunteering at a shelter.
- The incident that made me a more compassionate person.
- Becoming a pet parent: Joy and responsibilities.
- Experiencing a culture shock on my exchange program.
- Navigating through life with a unique hobby.
- Lessons learned from a devastating failure.
- Discovering my passion in an unlikely way.
- How has a single book shaped my worldview?
- The role of a mentor in my personal growth.
- The unforgettable journey to my ancestral home.
- Discovering strength in my weakest moment.
Personal Persuasive Essay Topics
- Online education is superior to traditional schooling.
- Mandatory voting will improve democratic participation.
- Self-driving cars should replace human-operated vehicles.
- Adoption of plant-based diets is necessary for global sustainability.
- Privacy concerns outweigh the benefits of surveillance technologies.
- Animal testing is unacceptable in modern scientific research.
- Artificial intelligence poses more threats than benefits to society.
- Corporations should have stricter regulations to prevent climate change.
- Countries should open their borders to all immigrants.
- All schools should implement mental health education in their curriculum.
- Society benefits more from arts education than from sports programs.
- Public spaces should always offer free Wi-Fi.
- Parental consent is necessary for minors to access social media.
- Health insurance should be a fundamental right, not a privilege.
- Single-use plastic items must be banned globally.
- Personal finance courses should be a mandatory part of high school education.
- Social media platforms need stricter measures against cyberbullying.
- Humanity should prioritize colonizing other planets.
- Excessive screen time is detrimental to children’s development.
Personal Cause and Effect Essay Topics
- Volunteering at a local shelter and its impact on my worldview.
- The effect of social media detox on my mental health.
- Experiencing failure and its role in shaping my resilience.
- The consequences of procrastination on my academic performance.
- Moving to a new city and the unexpected outcomes.
- Practicing mindfulness and its effect on my stress levels.
- The implications of becoming a vegetarian on my health and lifestyle.
- Embracing minimalism and its transformative impact on my life.
- How has learning a new language influenced my cultural understanding?
- A significant childhood event and its long-lasting effects.
- The repercussions of taking a gap year after high school.
- Committing to regular exercise and its impact on my self-esteem.
- Cultivating a hobby and how it altered my leisure time.
- Learning to play a musical instrument and its influence on my cognitive abilities.
- A health scare and its effect on my life priorities.
- Pursuing a passion and the subsequent changes in my career path.
- Joining a book club and its impact on my intellectual growth.
- Undertaking a solo travel adventure and the resulting self-discovery.
- Coping with a significant loss and its effect on my emotional growth.
- Incorporating meditation into my daily routine and its influence on my concentration.
- Deciding to live abroad and the resulting changes in my worldview.
Personal Argumentative Essay Topics
- Impacts of social media on personal relationships.
- Remote work is more efficient than traditional office work.
- The necessity of financial literacy in the modern world.
- Veganism: A healthier choice or a passing trend?
- Online dating: Are the risks worth the rewards?
- Is maintaining personal privacy possible in the digital age?
- Standardized tests do not accurately reflect a student’s abilities.
- Living abroad can broaden your perspective on life.
- Fast fashion and its effect on individual purchasing behavior.
- Personal growth: Is it essential to experience failure?
- Meditation as a powerful tool for stress relief.
- Self-driving cars: Safer or riskier than human drivers?
- Online influencers: Are they shaping or harming our society?
- The role of pets in enhancing mental health.
- Renewable energy at home: Is it a practical choice?
- How important is physical exercise for mental health?
- Continuous learning: A key to success or a source of stress?
- The effectiveness of mindfulness practices in daily life.
- Decluttering: A path to mental clarity or a trendy illusion?
- Gap years: Are they beneficial for personal growth?
Examples of Personal Essay Topics
One can write about different personal essay topics for two types of personal memoirs identified above. Hence, some unique types of personal essay topics are:
Personal Essay Topics on Secrets of Life
- The confession of a failed help mission.
- The disclosure of searching for a soul mate.
- The secret life of a rescue volunteer.
- A detailed account of obesity caused me to develop joint problems.
- Secrets of a successful learner.
- Unveiling the beauty of everyday moments.
- The healing power of laughter in life’s journey.
- Nature’s wisdom: How do the outdoors teach us to live?
- Lessons learned from unexpected friendships.
- Adapting to change: Life’s only constant.
- The transformative power of love and kindness.
- Harnessing the strength within: Self-discovery in times of turmoil.
- Serenity in solitude: A journey toward self-love.
- Perseverance and hope: A tale of personal growth.
- Mysteries of the subconscious mind: Dream interpretations and their impact on life.
- Simplicity, minimalism, and the quest for a meaningful existence.
- Understanding the role of failure in the pursuit of success.
- Life’s hidden messages in seemingly mundane routines.
- Endurance and resilience: Learning to dance in the rain.
- Reflections on wisdom: What have elders taught me about life?
- Connections and coincidences: A contemplation on fate and destiny.
- Cherishing the transient: An essay on life’s fleeting moments.
Personal essay topics above may vary from one discipline to another, depending on the writer’s focus and life experiences. In turn, possible topics for different subjects that one may consider when writing a personal essay about a secret life are:
Examples of Personal Topics on Art and Culture
- An account of a failed social media relationship.
- The confession of my experience with native communities.
- The impact of street art on urban development.
- My first experience with classical music.
- The evolution of pop art and its impact on my artistic vision.
- How do different cultures influence contemporary fashion?
- My personal connection with abstract expressionism.
- The cultural significance of traditional folk music in my life.
- Understanding the power of photography: Capturing moments that matter.
- The intersection of technology and art: My experience with digital art.
- The role of theatre in shaping cultural perspectives.
- How has anime influenced my appreciation of Japanese culture?
- My journey with literature: The books that have changed my perspective on life.
- The confession of how I used to copy a colleague’s work.
- An account of how my choice of college promoted learning skills.
- My confession with a haunting artwork.
- Why graffiti is more than just vandalism: My personal perspective.
- My account of how I faced the law due to throw-away culture.
- Cultural celebrations: A deeper look at their artistic components.
- My secret account with a haunting experience with my cultural identity.
Samples of Personal Topics on Economics
- Effects of global financial influence on my life.
- Impacts of consumerism on my economic status.
- Balancing a personal budget: A journey to financial independence.
- The influence of global economic events on local economies.
- Lessons learned from the 2008 financial crisis.
- Microfinance: Transforming lives and communities.
- Effects of Hurricane Katrina on my school life.
- Influence of tariffs on my consumption behaviors.
- How does politics influence my relationship with natives?
- Exploring the concept of “money” in the digital age.
- How does my understanding of supply and demand influence daily decisions?
- Sustainability and economics: Can they coexist harmoniously?
- Unraveling the impact of inflation on my purchasing power.
- Capitalism vs. socialism: My personal perspective.
- How do economic policies influence my poverty levels?
- The role of government in my economic life.
- Demystifying the complex world of stock markets.
- Evaluating the pros and cons of consumerism.
- How did my father’s choices influence my behavior?
- My experience with cryptocurrency: A gamble or a wise investment?
- Effects of monetary policies undermined my business.
Examples of Personal Essay Topics on Education
- An account of how standardized testing influenced my high school performance.
- The role of technology in modern education.
- My journey toward understanding the value of inclusive education.
- An account of how my indigo identity ruined my life.
- Navigating the educational system as a first-generation student.
- Benefits of extracurricular activities for holistic development.
- ADHD and dyslexia damaged my education.
- An account of how internal and external factors make my learning experience boring.
- How has homeschooling changed my perspective on learning?
- The importance of language learning in global citizenship.
- Parent involvement: A critical aspect of educational success.
- Lessons learned from my first teaching experience.
- An account of how technologies weakened my learning abilities
- My horrific account with e-books and collaborative boards in class
- An account of how homeschooling caused social distress
- My experience with student-led learning initiatives.
- Emotional intelligence: An overlooked aspect in classrooms.
- Benefits and challenges of studying abroad.
- Experiencing cultural diversity in the school environment.
- My horrific experience in charter schools
Sample Topics for Personal Papers on Ethics
- My negative perception of genetic engineering.
- Exploring the role of personal integrity in decision-making.
- My journey toward understanding the essence of truthfulness.
- Altruism and its impact on my life choices.
- My negative perception towards the legalization of marijuana.
- How marijuana legalization increased my juvenile delinquency.
- A personal account of cultural imperialism.
- The ethical dilemma I faced in the digital age.
- Personal reflections on the ethics of non-violence.
- The influence of empathy on my ethical framework.
- Standing up against groupthink: A story of moral courage.
- An account of how cultural imperialism ruined my life.
- An account of globalization influenced my lifestyle.
- Living green: The ethical considerations of environmental responsibility.
- My experience with ethical consumerism and its impact.
- The morality of forgiveness: Lessons from my personal life.
- How has practicing fairness reshaped my outlook on life?
- Understanding the significance of justice in everyday situations.
- Balancing personal gain and ethical responsibility.
- Uniquely personal experience as a global citizen.
- An account of how traditions affected my ethics.
Examples of Personal Topics on Government and Politics
- The United States’ invasion of Iraq and Afghanistan affected my family life.
- An account of how the Community Reinvestment Act (RCA) influenced my lifestyle.
- How has the increasing homeownership in the United States affected my life as a low-income earner?
- The balance between freedom and security in modern society.
- Why trust in government is essential for social progress?
- The role of media in shaping political views.
- Influences of political ideologies on personal lives.
- Ethical dilemmas in government surveillance.
- How has the growing debt in the United States impacted my life?
- Our evolving understanding of democracy in the digital age.
- Deciphering the complexity of immigration policies.
- How is my life affected by international politics?
- How the tariffs made by President Trump impacted my life?
- Impacts of decreased military activity in my family life.
- An account of how historical injustices undermines my family life.
- Decoding political propaganda in the 21st century.
- Understanding the link between politics and education reform.
- My journey into grassroots activism.
- A personal account of how the constitution undermines my employability.
Sample Personal Topics on Health
- An account of how emotional problems lowers my body’s immunity.
- Exploring my journey through recovery from addiction.
- How has adopting a vegan diet transformed my health?
- Navigating the complex world of mental health stigmatization.
- Life lessons learned from my experience with chronic pain.
- My personal insights into battling and overcoming obesity.
- Unraveling the mystery of my rare genetic disorder.
- An account of the excessive consumption of junk food increases my body’s energy levels.
- Self-care: My key to managing stress effectively.
- An account of how emotional eating causes indigestion.
- The struggle and victory: My tale of beating cancer.
- Walking the tightrope: Balancing health and career ambitions.
- An account of how a lack of moral support causes anorexia and bulimia.
- Reflections on my experience with gender dysphoria and mental health.
- An account of how positive life changes stressed me.
- Embracing the unexpected: How has yoga changed my perspective on health?
- An account of how I discovered that ozone in the air leads to respiratory diseases.
- My adventure into the realm of holistic healing.
- An account of how high blood pressure caused me to develop cardiovascular disease.
- Decoding the enigma of sleep disorders: A personal perspective.
- An account of how social media increases my psychological challenges.
Examples of Personal Essay Topics on History
- How has World War I separated my family?
- How did the continued effects of slavery affect my family life?
- An account of how my interest in women’s movement affects my thoughts on racism.
- How has my family weathered the Great Depression?
- Personal reflections on the fall of the Berlin Wall.
- Discovering my roots: Tracing my lineage to the American Revolution.
- Living in a post-9/11 world: My perspective.
- Interpreting the French Revolution through my ancestor’s letters.
- An account of how World War II influenced my family.
- Visiting historic sites: My journey through the Civil Rights Movement landmarks.
- The legacy of the Vietnam War in my family.
- How has studying the Holocaust shaped my worldview?
- An account of how the Holocaust affected my education and career path.
- How religion influences my delinquency levels?
- Personal experiences in the aftermath of the Soviet Union’s collapse.
- My pilgrimage to the landmarks of the Women’s Suffrage Movement.
- Historical epidemics and their relevance to modern-day pandemics.
- A reflection on the Rwandan Genocide through the lens of a humanitarian worker.
- The Arab Spring and its significance in my life.
- British imperialism and its negative impacts on my life.
Sample Topics for Personal Essays on Science
- Effects of global warming on my health and social well-being.
- Results of excessive temperature on metabolism.
- Discovering the beauty of fractals in nature.
- Life under a microscope: The unseen world.
- How does the study of genetics shape our self-perception?
- Results of sunlight on my skin.
- From science fiction to reality: The progress of artificial intelligence.
- The lure of space exploration: A personal perspective.
- Journey toward sustainable living through science.
- Evolutionary biology and its impact on my worldview.
- Effects of ambient temperature on my pet’s feeding habits.
- How does temperature influence my daily routine?
- Human interaction with technology: A blessing or a curse?
- Grappling with the ethical dilemmas of genetic engineering.
- Neuroscience and the mystery of human consciousness.
- How do scientific findings affect my food consumption?
- How do research methods influence my health outcomes?
- Impacts of my scientific knowledge on my social behavior.
Examples of Personal Essay Topics on Sports
- Workouts enhance my immunity.
- Regular workouts strengthened my bones.
- An account of how physical exercise relieves my stress.
- Participating in sports lowered my juvenile delinquency.
- How has paying college athletes promoted my talent development?
- A narrative of how workouts boost my memory, yield, and intelligence.
- Overcoming obstacles in sports: A journey of perseverance.
- The role of sports in shaping my character.
- Lessons learned from teamwork in sports.
- The psychology of sports: Understanding the mindset of athletes.
- The importance of sportsmanship in competitive athletics.
- A narrative of how children who take part in sports developed my peer relationships.
- How have sports taught me the value of discipline?
- The joys of playing sports: Finding happiness on the field.
- A sports injury and its impact on my life.
- The relationship between sports and academic success.
- Sports as a medium for cultural exchange.
- Exploring the connection between sports and leadership.
- The evolution of sports: From ancient times to modern day.
- The intersection of sports and technology.
- An account of how regular exercise enhanced my communication skills.
Personal Essay Topic Samples on Technology
- An account of how increased internet accessibility increased my cyber-bullying.
- My cyber-bullying increased my rate of juvenile delinquency.
- A narrative of how the state control of the internet pushed me into cyber-bullying.
- Ethical dilemmas of genetic engineering.
- Roles of technology in enhancing communication.
- How has technology revolutionized the music industry?
- Future of robotics and its implications.
- Influence of social media on personal relationships.
- An account of how social networking influences my ways of life.
- Social networks influence my collective behaviors.
- An account of how social media affects my overall well-being.
- My personal beliefs that facial recognition technologies undermine human rights.
- Benefits and drawbacks of cryptocurrency.
- Power of big data analytics in business.
- Roles of technology in improving healthcare.
- Exploring the ethics of biometric technology.
- Evolution of e-commerce and its effect on traditional retail.
- Impacts of augmented reality in education.
- Roles of technology in addressing climate change.
- Advantages and disadvantages of 3D printing.
- My views on how artificial intelligence enhances active learning.
Personal Essay Ideas on Defining Moments
- I was a police officer for thirty years, which is an experience that continues to haunt me.
- Every individual has a moment that changes his or her life.
- How has a trip to New York changed my family life forever?
- Obesity has led to joint problems.
- Influence of adults on my life choice.
- Discovering my true passion in a hidden hobby.
- The unexpected encounter that altered my perspective on life.
- A turning point: Embracing vulnerability in a moment of strength.
- Embracing failure experiences as a stepping stone to success.
- A single moment of kindness that changed everything.
- Finding beauty in the midst of chaos.
- The bittersweet taste of saying goodbye for the last time.
- Lessons from a near-death experience.
- How have I found hope in the darkest hour?
- Transformation through a moment of silence.
- The day I chose to break free from societal norms.
- Healing through unexpected friendships.
- Lessons learned from my first heartbreak.
- Navigating through life after a life-changing diagnosis.
- Understanding the importance of mental health after a personal crisis.
Personal essay topics above may vary from one discipline to another, depending on the writer’s focus and life experiences. Hence, examples of possible topics for different subjects that one may consider when writing a personal essay about a secret life are:
Examples of Personal Essay Ideas on Art and Culture
- How have social media relationships influenced my social behavior?
- My experience with native communities influenced social behaviors.
- From viewer to creator: My personal journey into filmmaking.
- The power of poetry: How did it allow me to express myself?
- Art as a tool for activism and peace: How do artists reflect social issues in their works?
- The influence of hip-hop culture on contemporary society.
- The artistic beauty of architectural landmarks: How do they reflect a city’s culture?
- How has reading graphic novels expanded my perspective on storytelling and culture?
- My experience of learning a foreign language was momentous.
- Copy a colleague’s work changed my attitude towards education.
- My choice of college transformed my career goals.
- Exploring body art: A personal narrative on tattoos and piercings.
- The art of cooking: How has cultural cuisine shaped my culinary skill?
- The emotional power of music and sound: How does it shape our mood and behavior?
- The influence of indigenous art on modern design trends.
- An interaction with a haunting artwork changed my attitude toward employment.
- The increased levels of throw-away culture motivated me to become an environmental activist.
- A haunting experience with my cultural identity encouraged me to become an activist.
Sample Ideas for Writing Personal Papers on Economics
- The global financial crisis influenced me to embrace a saving culture.
- Consumerism encouraged me to embrace financial savings.
- Effects of Hurricane Katrina influenced my thoughts about humanity.
- The current tariffs in the United States forced me to change my business strategies.
- Transition from a traditional economy: A personal story.
- From scarcity to abundance: Understanding the economic principle in personal life.
- Implementing cost-benefit analysis in everyday life decisions.
- How does a deeper understanding of economics affect voting choices?
- Reflections on wealth distribution and income inequality.
- The domino effect of oil price fluctuations on my living expenses.
- Facing the student loan crisis: My personal story.
- The current politics influence me to develop a positive relationship with natives.
- Economic policies imposed in 2023 contributed to my poverty.
- My father’s choices motivated my delinquent levels.
- Navigating through the gig economy: Opportunities and challenges.
- A personal account of living through a recession.
- Encountering and overcoming wage stagnation in the 21st century.
- The power of compound interest: A pathway to financial freedom.
- Various monetary policies forced me to make the wrong choices.
Examples of Personal Essay Ideas on Education
- Standardized testing changed my high school performance.
- My indigo identity changed my attitude toward other aboriginals.
- ADHD and dyslexia changed my education perception.
- Experiencing internal and external factors encouraged me to adopt a negative attitude toward education.
- Interacting with technologies weakened my learning abilities.
- The use of e-books and collaborative boards affected my attitude toward education.
- The transformation of education through online learning.
- Vocational education: A path less traveled.
- Attaining equality in education: My personal experience.
- Lifelong learning: The key to personal and professional growth.
- My unforgettable experience with collaborative learning.
- Bullying in schools: A personal encounter.
- My encounter with the arts in education.
- Grappling with the reality of educational disparities.
- Integrating environmental education into the curriculum: A personal perspective.
- The influence of positive reinforcement on academic performance.
- How do study habits shape academic success?
- The adoption of homeschooling caused me social distress.
- Joining charter schools caused a negative attitude toward education.
Sample Ideas for Personal Essays on Ethics
- Experience with genetic engineering changed my attitude toward ethics.
- Legalization of marijuana forced me into drugs.
- Marijuana legalization was the cause of my juvenile delinquency.
- Corporate social responsibility: A personal perspective.
- The intersection of culture and ethics in my life.
- Reflecting on the ethical aspects of animal rights.
- Dealing with biases: My journey towards ethical awareness.
- Grappling with the ethical implications of artificial intelligence.
- Transparency and honesty in the era of fake news.
- Learning to respect diversity: An ethical obligation.
- Cultural imperialism led to negative attitudes toward other people.
- Globalization motivated me to live abroad.
- Being a global citizen influenced my charity levels.
- Cultural traditions affected my attitude toward ethics.
- My ethical stance on wealth inequality and poverty.
- How has ethics shaped my perspective on privacy in the digital age?
- The struggle with ethical choices in a globally interconnected world.
- Balancing the scales: A personal tale of justice and mercy.
Examples of Personal Ideas on Government and Politics
- The impact of political polarization on friendships and family.
- Navigating through the maze of bureaucracy.
- Climate change policy: A personal perspective.
- Reflections on the current state of political discourse.
- Gun control and the politics of fear.
- From apathy to advocacy: My political awakening.
- Money, power, and politics: A critical look.
- The psychology of voting behavior.
- The United States’ invasion of Iraq and Afghanistan encouraged me to join the armed forces.
- The Community Reinvestment Act (RCA) changed my attitude toward communal unity.
- Increasing homeownership in the United States forced me to move from my motherland.
- The increasing debt in the United States ruined my economic progress.
- The tariffs made by President Trump ruined my business.
- Health care reform: A personal journey through the political maze.
- Observations on political activism in the social media era.
- Living under the shadow of nuclear diplomacy.
- The impact of gender politics on my worldview.
- Human rights in foreign policy: A personal narrative.
- Navigating partisan politics in a divided nation.
- The decreased military activity led to a stabilized life in my family.
- Historical injustices separated me from my family.
- The constitutional amendments undermined my employability as an illegal immigrant.
Samples of Personal Essay Ideas on Health
- The beginning of emotional problems lowered my body’s immunity.
- The excessive consumption of junk food affected my sugar level balance.
- Emotional eating led to indigestion.
- My lack of moral support led to Anorexia and bulimia.
- Trapped in my own body: The trials and triumphs of living with paralysis.
- Experiencing life through the lens of color blindness.
- The silent fight: My personal struggle with an invisible illness.
- Aging gracefully: Accepting and embracing the golden years.
- The long road to acceptance: My personal struggle with body image.
- A new lease on life: Surviving a near-death experience.
- Learning to fly: How has disability shaped my worldview?
- Making positive life changes was the source of my distress.
- My discovery of the importance of the ozone layer increased my interest in respiratory problems.
- The promise of tomorrow: Living with a terminal illness.
- When food became my enemy: My battle with an eating disorder.
- Living in the shadows: My journey with depression.
- From victim to victor: Overcoming the trauma of domestic abuse.
- Dance as therapy: How has movement healed my soul?
- My high blood pressure led to cardiovascular disease.
- Using social media increased my psychological challenges.
Examples of Personal Ideas on History
- The emergence of World War I led to my family’s separation.
- A journey back in time: My visit to the historic Underground Railroad sites.
- My experience researching the Arab Spring for a school project.
- Indian partition: Stories passed down through generations.
- Unearthing my family’s connection to the Spanish Civil War.
- A reflection on my ancestral ties to the transatlantic slave trade.
- The development of slavery affects my family life.
- My interest in the women’s movement led to my activism against racism.
- The emergence of World War II led to my family’s breakup.
- Tracing my heritage back to the Irish Potato Famine.
- Learning about my family’s involvement in the Korean War.
- Interpreting the impact of the Industrial Revolution on my hometown.
- South African apartheid: Understanding its impact through my parents’ eyes.
- Artifacts of history: My personal collection of World War I memorabilia.
- The lasting effect of the Cuban Missile Crisis on my community.
- The emergence of the Holocaust ruined my education and career path.
- Joining religion reduced my delinquency levels.
- The Arab Spring improved my quality of life.
- British imperialism reduced my employment opportunities.
Samples of Personal Essay Ideas on Science
- Global warming undermined my social well-being.
- Excessive temperature reduced my digestion strategies.
- The art and science of brewing coffee: A personal journey.
- Why am I fascinated by the science of sleep?
- My journey toward understanding the interconnectedness in ecology.
- The personal impacts of living in the Anthropocene era.
- Experiencing awe: The cosmos through an amateur astronomer’s lens.
- The inspiration behind my interest in forensic science.
- Exposure to excessive sunlight was the cause of my skin cancer.
- Ambient temperature threatened my pet’s feeding habits.
- High temperature threatens my daily routine.
- Scientific findings undermined my food consumption.
- Reflections on my first science experiment failure.
- The deep sea: A realm of science still largely unknown.
- Balancing faith and science: A personal exploration.
- The fascinating world of microbiomes and their impact on health.
- Appreciating the subtle science in everyday life.
- Various research methods undermined my health outcomes.
- My scientific knowledge promoted my social behavior.
Examples of Personal Essay Ideas on Sports
- Embracing workouts enhanced my immunity.
- Exploring the mental and emotional challenges of sports.
- Sports and identity: How do they shape who we are?
- The cultural significance of sports in different societies.
- Ethics of sports: Fair play and integrity.
- Embracing regular workouts strengthened my bones.
- The role of sports in reducing stress and promoting well-being.
- Sports and the pursuit of excellence: Striving for greatness.
- The legacy of sports heroes: Their impact on society.
- The intersection of art and sports: Capturing the beauty of movement.
- Embracing physical exercise relieved my stress.
- Sports and empowerment: How do athletics inspire confidence?
- Sports and social change: Breaking barriers and challenging norms.
- The impact of sports on mental health and well-being.
- Sports and time management: Balancing athletics and responsibilities.
- Embracing sports lowered my juvenile delinquency.
- Participating in college athletes led to talent development.
- Engaging in workouts boost my memory.
- Taking an active part in sports improved my peer relationships.
- Embracing regular exercise enhanced my communication skills.
Samples of Personal Ideas on Technology
- Internet accessibility increased my cyberbullying.
- Increased cyberbullying increases juvenile delinquency.
- Effects of technology on mental health.
- Impacts of technology on sustainable energy solutions.
- Evolution of wearable technology.
- Benefits and drawbacks of internet censorship.
- Roles of technology in enhancing personal productivity.
- Influence of technology on travel and tourism.
- Challenges and opportunities of 5G technology.
- Pros and cons of biometric identification systems.
- Future of work: Automation and job displacement.
- Influence of technology on the entertainment industry.
- Roles of virtual assistants in modern living.
- Implications of quantum computing on society.
- The emergence of state control of the internet pushed me into cyberbullying.
- Embracing social networking influences my ways of life.
- Embracing social media influenced my overall well-being.
- The emergence of facial recognition technologies undermined my human rights.
- Adoption of artificial intelligence that enhanced my active learning.
- Roles of technology in promoting accessibility and inclusion.
Creating a Topic for a Personal Essay
Writers identify essential and exciting life experiences. In this case, they create exciting topics about their thought-provoking essay topics. Also, one must create a topic that interests readers. However, authors must ensure that they use real-life experiences. Hence, a scheme template to develop a unique item for a personal essay is:
- For essays on secrets of life, one should use a scheme: “secret events and its consequences.”
- For papers on defining moments, one should use a format: “momentous events and their influence on one’s life.”
Summing Up on Personal Essay Topics
Personal essay topics refer to a typical assignment that high school and college students must develop. Basically, the primary goal of writing personal papers is to stimulate readers to act in a specific way. In this case, authors can use different writing styles to complete this type of arrangement. Then, personal writing includes real stories, involvements, and individual opinions. Besides, authors should give an account of their involvement and express thoughts on subjects. In turn, there are two types of personal essay topics. The first type focuses on some secrets of life, whereas learners represent stories that focus on unusual life pursuits. The second type of personal paper focuses on defining moments in a person’s life. Hence, one should follow examples of template schemes for two types of personal essay topics:
- Secret events and their consequences.
- Momentous events and their influence on one’s life.
To Learn More, Read Relevant Articles
How to write a thematic essay with explanations and examples, 576 good compare and contrast essay topics.
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How to Write a Personal Essay
Last Updated: February 2, 2023 Fact Checked
This article was co-authored by Jake Adams . Jake Adams is an academic tutor and the owner of Simplifi EDU, a Santa Monica, California based online tutoring business offering learning resources and online tutors for academic subjects K-College, SAT & ACT prep, and college admissions applications. With over 14 years of professional tutoring experience, Jake is dedicated to providing his clients the very best online tutoring experience and access to a network of excellent undergraduate and graduate-level tutors from top colleges all over the nation. Jake holds a BS in International Business and Marketing from Pepperdine University. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 309,237 times.
A good personal essay can move and inspire readers. It can also leave the reader unsettled, uncertain, and full of more questions than answers. To write an effective personal essay, you will need to first understand the structure of a personal essay. You will then need to brainstorm ideas for the personal essay so you are ready when it is time to sit down and craft your essay.
Starting Your Personal Essay
- For example, maybe you want to write about an experience where you learned about failure. You may think the time you failed a pop quiz in class. Though the quiz may have seemed insignificant to you at the time, you realized later that failing the pop quiz forced you to reassess your goals and motivated you to get a passing grade. Seen from a certain angle, your small failure became a gateway to perseverance and determination.
- This could be a seemingly small moment that ended up having a profound influence on you later, such the first time you experienced disgust as a child or the look on your mother’s face when you told her you were gay. Try to really dig into why you were hurt or compelled to overcome a challenge in this moment in your essay.
- Remember that moments charged with strong emotion will often be more engaging to readers. Having a strong reaction to a specific moment will allow you to write passionately about it and keep your reader interested in your essay.
- For example, you may focus on the day you found out your father cheated on your mother, or the week you mourned the death of a loved one. Think about a heavy experience in your life that shaped who you are today.
- You may also decide to write about a seemingly light topic or event, such as your first ride on a roller coaster, or the first time you went on a cruise with your partner. No matter what event you choose, make sure it is an event that triggered a strong emotional response, ranging from anger to confusion to unabashed joy.
- For example, you may think about why you and your mother stopped speaking years ago or why you are no longer close to a childhood friend. You may also look at past romantic relationships that failed and consider why they did not succeed or a relationship with a mentor that went sour.
- This could also be about someone that you're close with. For example, you could write about a moment that tested your relationship with a close friend.
- Ask yourself questions about the current event. For example, how does the current event intersect with your own experiences? How can you explore a current social issue or event using your personal thoughts, experiences, and emotions?
- For example, you may have an interest in writing about Syrian refugee camps in Europe. You may then focus your personal essay on your own status as a refugee in America and how your experiences a refugee have shaped the person you are now. This will allow you to explore a current event from a personal perspective, rather than simply talk about the current event from a distant, journalistic perspective.
- The introductory section should include “the hook”, opening lines where you catch the reader’s attention. It should also have some sort of narrative thesis, which is often the beginning of an important event in the piece or a theme that connects your experience to a universal idea.
- The body sections should include supporting evidence for your narrative thesis and/or the key themes in your piece. Often, this is in the form of your experiences and your reflections on your experiences. You should also note the passage of time in your body sections so the reader is aware of when and how certain events occurred.
- The concluding section should include a conclusion to the events and experiences discussed in the essay. You should also have a moral of the story moment, where you reflect on what you learned from your experiences or how your experiences changed your life.
- In the past, it was advised to have five paragraphs total, one paragraph for the introductory section, three paragraphs for the body section, and one paragraph for the concluding section. But you can have more or less than five paragraphs for your personal essay as long as you have all three sections.
Writing the Personal Essay
- Don't begin with a line that explains exactly what is going to be discussed in, such as, “In this essay, I will be discussing my fraught relationship with my mother." Instead, draw your reader into your piece and still provide all the information needed in your opening line.
- Start instead with a specific scene that contains the key characters of the essay and allows you discuss the central question or theme. Doing this will allow you to introduce the reader to the characters and the central conflict right away.
- For example, if you are writing about your fraught relationship with your mother, you may focus on a specific memory where you both disagreed or clashed. This could be the time you and your mother fought over a seemingly insignificant item, or the time you argued about a family secret.
- Try to use an active voice instead of a passive voice as much as possible when you're writing your essay.
- This writing voice may be conversational, much like how you might speak to a good friend or a family member. Or, the writing voice may be more reflective and internal, where you question your own assumptions and thoughts about the subject of the essay.
- Many personal essays are written in the first person, using “I”. You may decide to write in the present tense to make the story feel immediate, or past tense, which will allow you to reflect more on specific events or moments.
- Include vivid sensory descriptions in your essay to help the reader connect with your unique perspective. Describing touch, smell, taste, sight, and sound can help the reader invest in your story and feel like they're there with you.
- You can also include lines of dialogue spoken by your characters, based on your memory of the event. However, you should limit dialogue to only a few lines a page, as too much dialogue can start to veer away from personal essay and more toward fiction.
- You may use a plot outline to organize your essay. The plot points should act as supporting evidence for the central question or issue of the essay.
- It’s important to remember that though an experience may appear to have all the drama necessary to make a good personal essay, it may be a drama that is too familiar to the reader already. Be wary of experiences that are familiar and filled with pathos that a reader may have experienced before.
- If you are writing about the sudden death of a loved one, for example, it may feel important and deep to you. But the reader will likely know what to expect of an essay about a dead loved one, and may not relate to your essay because they did not know the loved one like you did.
- Instead, you may try to uncover a truth that is deeper than “I am sad my loved one died.” Think about what the loved one meant to you and how the loved one affected your life, in positive and negative ways. This could lead to the uncovering of a deeper truth and a stronger personal essay.
Polishing Your Essay
- For example, you may use metaphor to describe the experience of telling your mother you are gay. You may describe your mother’s face as “impenetrable, a sudden wall”. Or you may use a simile, such as “my mother’s reaction was silent and stunned, as if she had been struck by lightning.”
- As you read it out loud, you should highlight any sentences that are confusing or unclear as well as sentences that do not appear as strong as the rest of the draft. You should also make sure your characters are well developed and your essay follows some kind of structure or sense of plot. Consider if you are hitting a deeper truth in your draft and what you can do to get there if it is not yet on the page.Revising your essay will only make it that much stronger.
- When you are revising, you should consider if your content is really worth writing about, if you are writing about a topic or subject you are passionate about, and if your reader will understand your writing. You want to avoid confusing your reader, as this can turn her off from reading to the end of your essay.
- You should also make sure the focus and themes of the essay are clear. Your experiences should center around a central question, issue, or theme. This will ensure your personal essay is well written and concise.
- Avoid relying on spellcheck to catch all of the spelling and grammar errors in your essay.
Expert Q&A
- To get a better sense of the genre, you should read highly crafted examples of personal essay. There are several known personal essays that are often taught in academia, including "Notes of a Native Son” by James Baldwin, “The Death of a Moth” by Virginia Woolf, “Shipping Out” by David Foster Wallace, “The White Album” by Joan Didion, and “We Do Abortions Here” by Sallie Tisdale. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
- Ask yourself several questions as you read the examples, such as: How does the writer introduce the subject of their essay? How does the writer explore the subject for a personal perspective? What are the key themes in the essay? How does the writer connect their personal experiences to a universal theme or idea? How does the writer use humor or wit in the essay? What is the concluding moral of the essay? Does the end of the essay leave you satisfied, unsettled, curious, or all of the above? Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
Sample Essay and Template
You Might Also Like
- ↑ https://owl.excelsior.edu/writing-process/thesis-sentence/thesis-sentence-angles/
- ↑ Jake Adams. Academic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist. Expert Interview. 20 May 2020.
- ↑ https://courses.lumenlearning.com/englishcomp1/chapter/writing-a-narrative-or-personal-essay/
- ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/personal-essay/
- ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-write-a-personal-essay
- ↑ https://stlcc.edu/student-support/academic-success-and-tutoring/writing-center/writing-resources/point-of-view-in-academic-writing.aspx
- ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/story-plot/
- ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/literary-devices/
- ↑ http://admissions.vanderbilt.edu/vandybloggers/2013/09/how-to-write-your-personal-essay/
- ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/revising-drafts/
About This Article
To write a personal essay, start by deciding on an experience that affected your life in some way, such as how failing a pop quiz in class made you change your goals. Next, draft an outline containing the points you want to make, and including an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. When writing, start your essay with an engaging scene that introduces the characters and main theme, then develop the characters in the body section so they're well-rounded. Conclude by summing up what you learned from the experience. For tips on how to include a plot in your essay and how to proofread your work, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No
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242 Personal Persuasive Essay Topics and Ideas
Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.
Personal essays are some of the most diverse assignments you can receive. Whether you’re a student in middle school or university, the best personal essay will highlight an individual’s personal views and unique experience. They’re not confined by the restrictions of literary essays and give plenty of opportunity for introducing the writer’s personality. The key here is selecting the right topics to talk about in a personal essay. Usually, this is the toughest part. After all, it’s the emotional core of your text. A lot of people also struggle to write about themselves and their experience as subjects of the text. Where does one start? Essay topics in general are frustrating to formulate so if you need help with some inspiration, take a look at some more ideas here ! And if you’re wondering what some good personal essay topics are, you’ll find a lot of sample ideas here as well as a guide on how to write a persuasive text.
In this article:
How to Write Personal Essays
Personal narrative essay topics, personal experience essay topics, personal argumentative essay topics, personal cause-and-effect essay topics, personal persuasive essay topics, personal essay topics for middle school, personal essay topics for high school students and college students.
Start by taking a trip down memory lane. The most gripping stories come from personal experience, especially if you’re thinking of writing a personal narrative essay. Think about a memory from your past that includes some inciting incident. If this is the first time you come across this phrase, inciting incidents are typically the metaphorical “ hooks ” of the story that have the audience interested in your text.
You could talk about your experience working as a volunteer, for example, or if you aren’t the volunteering type, you can write about some exciting memories from your childhood and summer vacations. Have you taken a trip abroad that has really left an impression on you? Are you drawn to different cultures because of that exotic trip? Maybe you went to visit a museum of your favourite artist, and this has inspired you to become an artist yourself. Perhaps you were immersed by the sound of a different language and decided to have a go at it. What have you enjoyed the most in the process? What did you hate about it? Perhaps you tried acquiring a new skill, but it went completely the wrong way for you. The list goes on and on.
There’s something there. Just remember the golden rule: always be honest in your personal essays . Trying to change your viewpoint on a subject so that it fits the masses’ opinion won’t make your personal essay enticing. The topic you’ll talk about in your personal essay is extremely important and so is the first sentence. Writing phrases such as “ever since I was a baby, I wanted to become a doctor” isn’t convincing or truthful. Try not to stick to clichés. You want to make an impression with your text, so ask yourself: What would grab your attention if you were reading your persuasive essay? I always think of Charles Dickens’ first sentence from A Christmas Carol : “Marley was dead: to begin with.” It begs for explanation and resolve, and it’s short and simple. The same should go for the personal essay entry sentence.
Why Choose Personal Persuasive Topics for Your Essay
If you’re wondering why you should choose personal persuasive topics for your essay, the answer lies in the question. We are a narrative-oriented society, and much of our relatability comes from convincingly expressing to others our individual, personal experience. What better way to let your personality shine than through conveying your emotions and adventures in a gripping story?
Personal experience essay topics vary depending on your age, and it’s quite likely that a story that worked for a high school assignment won’t have the same effect in your university days. That’s why in the sections below, we have divided the best personal essay topics into different categories. That way, you can easily navigate across all topics (and there’s quite a lot of them – a total of 242 ), but don’t let that restrict you. If you’re confident, you can always choose a topic from any of the categories.
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Of course, there are other important takeaways from writing a great personal essay. Usually, your teacher or admissions officer will look out that you have successfully done the following:
- Communicated and implemented your critical thinking skills
- Spoken convincingly and from experience about challenging themes that make you stand out from the crowd
- Demonstrated your creativity and unique voice all the while applying persuasive techniques in your writing
With all this in mind, you can now start by selecting the right type of personal essay topic from our categories. We have included everything from personal essay topics for middle school to personal essay topics for high school, as well as narrative essay topics and many more. Go on, what are you waiting for?
Personal narrative essays are a great way to tell your unique take on a personal story. You just have to choose a project you feel passionate about. Typically, choosing a story involving your success and personality growth is your best bet, but of course, always make sure to check that your topic is suitable for the task given by your tutors. If you’re wondering what topics are suitable for a great personal narrative essay, check out the following ideas:
- Starting your first job
- Volunteering for the first time
- A memorable teacher that made an impact on you
- A dangerous experience
- Your first journey abroad/to the countryside
- An experience that changed your behavior
- An experience that made you gain/lose religious faith
- A comedic situation based on some misunderstanding
- Events from your summer vacation that changed your life
- The first time you got a pet
- The experience of meeting your little sibling for the first time
- A time when you decided what your future job will be
- The change of a relationship with some you didn’t expect you’d like
- The first time you experienced a dangerous event of some kind
- The first time you won something
- Your experience participating in a sport/political/environmental design
- A story about a teacher who inspired you
- A story about a family member who is dear to you
- Your experience of being in charge of something for the first time
- Your experience traveling on your own for the first time
- How a book you read changed your life
- How the most exciting subject in school changed your life
- How technology changed the way you access information
- The first time you experienced an earthquake or tornado
- A story about someone who has become your patron/idol
- Your reaction/opinion on an event that influenced your country
- A moment you caught someone in a lie
- An episode that changed your relationship with your parents
- An event which showed you taking responsibility and leadership
- An event in which you face discrimination
- An experience of successfully fighting procrastination
- A time when you helped people in a crisis
- The experience of creating secret places in your childhood
- An experience playing your favorite game
- A time you got lost
- Your first time going on a trip by yourself
- The influence of technology on your younger siblings vs you
- What you would do if you won the lottery for the first time
- Your best childhood memory
- Your experience of discovering a disability for the first time
- A secret talent you have
- Your experience learning a musical instrument
- Your experience with an inexplicable event that happened to you
- A story about the greatest fear you have
- How your favorite work of art inspires you
- The best advice you have heard in your life
- A place you would go to if you could travel in time
- A story about the most beautiful place you have visited
- Something you witnessed in your lifetime that you will never forget
- Your favorite holiday experience
- Your most awkward moment in college
- Your biggest fear
- The most crucial lesson in your life
- Your experience of being betrayed by someone and your response to it
- An advice your parents gave you that wasn’t useful
- Describe your biggest moment of failure
- Your biggest argument with a family member
- A difficult decision you have made
- The day you realized you had made a best friend
- The most interesting dream you have had
Personal experience essays aren’t that much different from personal narrative essays. They still have an element of narrative storytelling within them, but this time, they focus more on a level of experience you have gained because of a certain event. Usually, personal experience essay topics are focused around the theme of personal development. Many things can be described and included in a personal narrative essay, and you not only are given the opportunity to demonstrate your personal views on a subject, but you can also have your level of determination and ambition evaluated by a professional teacher or college admissions officer. Usually, personal narrative essay papers are written when submitting a college application, but it’s also possible to receive such an essay in school. In my personal experience, some of the greatest essays presenting an intellectual challenge are in fact the personal experience essays.
Let’s get straight into some essay prompts:
- How do you handle stress when attending an important exam?
- Which school subject motivated you to study hard?
- Did a teacher have a significant influence on your confidence in selecting a career?
- Is homework a waste of time?
- How would you go about doing research for an essay?
- What motivates you to study and pursue your dreams?
- Everyone has a plan “A” when it comes to choosing a career. What is your plan “B”?
- How has your biggest failure shaped your personality today?
- What is your biggest accomplishment outside of college/school, and how did you come to achieve it?
- What is the difference between female and male roles in your family? In what way would you change them?
- How did a book/film change your worldview?
- What role have teams and clubs had in your life?
- What role has television had in your life?
- What is your relationship with social media?
- How have moments of racial or religious discrimination affected you?
Personal argumentative essay topics are generally given to college students or sometimes to people applying for a degree in Humanitarian Sciences. Such essays are a great way for admission officers to evaluate your knowledge of current events and relevant social discussions. Personal argumentative essay topics are usually considered more difficult than narrative essays, for example. For more argumentative ideas and speech topics , check the guide! Thus, if you’re planning on taking up this challenge, make sure you have enough time to prepare. If you have a whole term to prepare for this personal argumentative essay topic, you’ll surely be able to tackle it. Also, if that sounds too engaging, don’t worry, there are plenty of other, easier essay ideas on our lists!
Check out our example personal argumentative essay prompts for argumentative essay topics:
- Should prisons be abolished? If so, what is the negative and positive impact of this global decision?
- How does higher education affect the merit in meritocracy?
- Should artificial intelligence be applied actively in warfare?
- Does revolution go hand in hand with violence?
- Has the COVID-19 pandemic made us more prepared for the prevention of future epidemics occurring worldwide?
- In what way has the instant gratification of social media changed our relationship to technology?
- How has the digital age changed children’s relationship to empathy?
- What would the impact of a potential legalization of productivity drugs look like in current society?
- Is there a difference in work performance between Ivy League alumni and lower-ranking university students?
- Is obesity preventable?
- Is gun control a necessary method for the prevention of shootings?
- Should everyone have the right to vote?
- Should the right to vote be exclusively available to people with some form of education?
- Does the #metoo movement yield meaningful social change?
- Is knife control a necessary and sufficient method of knife crime prevention?
- How can the value of digital collectible art be accurately determined?
- Is fan fiction writing real writing?
- Do all students need to learn a foreign language?
- Should students take a gap year between high school and university?
- Why should universities teach financial literacy?
- Should students participate in the maintenance of school property?
Personal cause-and-effect essay topics are pretty self-explanatory. You’re aiming to express your opinion on a subject that has a cause, for example, supposedly, school uniforms are meant to cause discipline among students. Exercising and backing up your opinion on this essay idea will make it personal. Here is a detailed guide on how to write a great cause and effect essay . Think of a topic that excites you. It could be something you’re unhappy with or something you think is unjust.
Here are personal cause-and-effect essay topics we came up with:
- How can video games boost people’s IQ?
- Can a personal relationship in a family improve with phone use?
- Can going to college make for happier marriages?
- How can the involvement of a parent change a child’s education?
- How have smartphones impacted general communication?
- What is the effect of cookies, and does it make people shop more?
- What is the effect of tablets on young children?
- What is the effect of mobile usage during class?
- Why can’t another popular engine be established in place of Google?
- What is the effect of the financial success Disney has had in the last 30 years?
- Should dating in school be banned?
- Can living together before marriage make a relationship between partners stronger?
- Can a couple sleeping in separate beds have a healthy relationship?
- What is the effect of bullying on mental health?
- What is the cause of bullying behavior?
- Why shouldn’t women have to work after an abortion or miscarriage?
- What is the impact of smoking on a pregnant mother ?
- How can the presence of acne affect the life of a teenager? What about an adult?
- Why do some people avoid vaccines?
- What causes a lack of interest in sports?
- How can teenagers better protect themselves against cyberbullies?
- What causes certain social media apps to lose popularity?
- Can continuous sporting activities cause character development?
- Is “cancel culture” sparking meaningful change?
- What is the root cause of racism?
- Why is it essential to manage forest fires?
- What are the harmful effects of antill hunting on the ecosystem?
- Why is it important for everyone to conserve water?
- What is the environmental impact of a single-use plastic ban?
- Can a long-distance relationship work?
- What are the causes and effects of cheating during exams?
- Is it a necessity to have an obligatory Sex Ed class ?
- How has the Internet changed the public’s sexual education?
- Should there be student bars on campus?
- Should work become mandatory for anyone over the age of 18?
- What causes some sports to be more popular among students than others?
- What are the effects of using computers and tablets in school? What about university?
- Have libraries become more popular over the last few years?
- What caused the General Data Protection Regulation, and why is it necessary?
- What are the effects of online dating apps such as Tinder or Grindr?
- What are the effects of drugs and alcohol on people?
- Should people be allowed to drive after drinking a single unit of alcohol?
- What are the effects of a family structure on an individual?
- Does having a sibling make a person more responsible?
- Are siblings better at sharing?
- How has the golden child syndrome affected millennials?
- How can teachers positively and negatively affect student lives?
- What are the root causes of commitment phobia in men and women?
- What is the effect of social media on romantic relationships?
- How does eating fast food affect the energy levels of an individual?
Unlike personal cause-and-effect essay topics, personal persuasive essay topics aim to convince the reader that your opinion is right. This type of academic writing assignment explains a particular problem and uses research combined with personal experience in order to end up with a powerful persuasive conclusion. Through logic and convincing evidence, as well as always keeping in mind the goal of persuasion, you can write a powerful assignment.
Here are some personal persuasive essay ideas to choose from for your next writing assignment:
- Is chess considered a sport or a game?
- How is modern music not as well-composed as music from the past, such as the 1970s?
- Is it important to put PG labels on music tracks or films?
- Elaborate on the importance of the right education when playing professional music.
- Is animal hunting an immoral hobby?
- Is it a good idea to keep pets indoors?
- The cruelty behind testing beauty products on animals
- Is it ethical to breed animals for sale?
- Schools have to reduce the amount of homework assigned to students.
- SATs and ACTs are not effective ways of examining the knowledge of students.
- There should be an Emotional Intelligence mandatory class for all years.
- Vaccines can lead to autism.
- Astrology isn’t an effective way of predicting future events.
- All transport vehicles should be automatic or electric.
- Can distant online learning replace traditional classes?
- Working from home is better for finance but worse for mental health.
- The current taxation system is unfair.
- Listening to music when writing homework is an effective way of sparking productivity
- Hustle culture has taxing effects on mental health.
- People volunteer for their personal benefit, instead of kindness
- People who have survived a near-death experience have a newfound appreciation for life.
- Is “fake it until you make it” a healthy way of progressing?
- Why do people lie on their resumes?
- Why book reading during summer vacations should become mandatory.
- Weekends should change from 2 days to 3 days.
- Why we should be making selective school sports mandatory in school.
- Cooking and body health classes should be mandatory subjects in school.
- Can e-books and Kindles replace physical books?
- Should the death penalty exist?
- Why should children have chores?
- Why should it be made mandatory for children to contribute to the overall maintenance, cleanliness, and gardening of schools?
When choosing a personal essay topic, it’s important to take on subjects and ideas related to your age. Some topics require a lot more research, while others can be a little too sensitive for a younger writer. Selecting the right one for you will leave you with less workload and can guarantee you a better grade. Of course, if you feel confident and knowledgeable enough, you can try your skills with a more difficult essay idea. Paper writing can be a difficult intellectual challenge, but we’re sure that with these essay ideas, you’ll be able to tell your personal story and write a great essay:
- How did you make a best friend?
- A special top-secret place you have.
- A story of a time a friend let you down.
- A time when you disappointed someone.
- What is your happiest memory?
- Your first time receiving a pet.
- Your bravest moment.
- A time you felt embarrassed.
- What would you do if you were omnipotent?
- What would you do if you could switch lives with someone? Who would it be?
- How did a book change your life?
- What would you do if your pet could talk?
- If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
- If you could shapeshift into an animal, what would you be? What would you do?
- If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Would you change anything?
- What’s your secret talent?
- The first time you fell in love.
- An accident that changed your life.
- Talk about the ugliest thing you have seen.
- Talk about the most influential family member.
- Talk about your favorite gift.
- Talk about something you can’t resist.
- Talk about a guest you had in your house that you’ll never forget.
- Talk about the hardest news you’ve had to deliver.
- Talk about a special gift you have received.
- Talk about something that if your mum knew, you’d be in a lot of trouble. A lot.
- If you could volunteer anywhere, where would it be?
- If you won a million dollars, how would you spend them?
- What is an unexplained event that stuck with you?
- The one thing you can’t resist.
- If you could be a superhero, what power would you have? Why?
- If you could teleport anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
This list of personal essay topics for high school students will definitely inspire you to practice your personal essay skills. Covering topics like communication, ethical consumption, personal experience and more, you’ll be able to gain new ideas and express your deepest thoughts within the confines of the page. These personal essay topics for high school students are also a great way of reflecting on your growth and personal opinion, while expressing your thoughts and opinions.
- What inspires you?
- What inanimate object best embodies you?
- What’s one thing your parents don’t understand about you?
- What is the one quality a good person must have?
- Describe the best decision you ever made
- What is one thing you would change that you know will make a great difference in your life?
- How do you respond to criticism? Talk about a time you were critiqued.
- Do you feel the impact of peer pressure in your life? How is it manifested?
- Are you religious, an atheist, or agnostic? Why and why not?
- Do you feel comfortable in your body? Do you feel pressure from the media about how you “should” look?
- What are your views on ethical consumption? Does it matter to you?
- What are your views on veganism?
- Do you feel like your friends are honest with each other? Why and why not?
- When you look back on your time in high school, what part will you remember with fondness?
- If you could tell your 12-year-old self something, what would it be and why?
- Do you have a dream profession? What is it?
- If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live?
- Do you believe in “soulmates”? Why and why not?
- What is your dream goal? Do you feel like you’ll ever achieve it?
- Do you believe in the concept of “best friends”? Why and why not?
- Do you believe in astrology? Why and why not?
- What do you think the world will look like in 100 years?
- If you could bring to life any famous historical figure and spend the day with them, who would you pick, and what would you do?
- If you could go back in time, would you kill Hitler?
- What TV series you saw recently made an impression on you? Why?
- What part of high school do you wish you could get rid of?
- If you could start your own business, what would you do?
- What issues truly motivate you and why?
- If you were an admissions officer, what positive qualities would you look for in students?
- What period of school do you think is most important?
- What is your dream profession? What are it’s positives and negatives?
- Do you think the world can function without money? What would that alternative universe look like?
- Do you think all students should go to college? Why?
Writing essays is a great way to showcase your writing skills, as well as clearly communicate your views and ideas. Personal essay writing improves your debating, logical, and deductive skills, so it’s important that you select a topic you’re passionate about and inspired by. This will give you enough fuel to power through the most difficult essay topics while at the same time enjoy what you’re writing about. We hope you enjoyed our personal persuasive essay topics! Make sure to bookmark and come back to this personal essay ideas list in the future when you’re given an assignment! Here are some more college essay topics , check them out!
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50 Personal Statement Topics Recommended by Experts
If you’re looking for good personal statement topics, don’t worry, you are not alone: millions of students all over the world are in the same boat. Writing such an essay is an extremely responsible task because in many ways, it determines the degree of success your application is going to have. To overcome your competition, the first thing you should do is understand what a personal essay is and why colleges and universities ask their potential students to write one. Personal statements for undergraduate admissions are a piece of writing describing personality, achievements, hobbies, and plans of students who want to join a specific educational establishment.
What makes them important? They help the committee see who a person is, what they think, what motivations they have, and how well they are capable of essay writing. Reading through academic numbers is great, but the only thing they indicate is how well a student could study. What professors want to see instead is how motivated and inspired people applying to them are, and this could be done only via an application essay. The tricky question is, where to find a great topic for it?
Tips For Choosing the Best Personal Statement Ideas
Finding a topic is always difficult. It has to resonate both with you and with people who are going to review your work, so it is vital not to make a mistake. Here are some tips you could use for solving this problem.
- Think about your life. Even the most boring and monotonous lives have their small tragedies and victories. Start remembering them. Go through key moments and think about details surrounding them. The clearest memories are the best foundation for essay topic.
- Focus on an interesting event. Whatever personal topics you consider, they must revolve around a prompt that evokes some genuine feelings in you. It must be something you are passionate about, something that has really affected your growth as an individual. Feel invested as you describe this situation.
- Add a challenge to it. Don’t forget that such essays should somehow show your strong sides or your willingness to learn. Describing a situation that didn’t have a meaningful impact related to your growth won’t fit here, so focus on challenging memories. Topics must be unique.
- Speak by yourself. Application essay is your chance to speak and present things from your perspective. If you ever felt misunderstood, betrayed, or under-evaluated, this is an opportunity to shed light on it and explain everything in a way you see it. By combining these four tips, it’ll be easier to narrow down a potential range of topics and choose a truly great one.
50 Inspiring Topics for Personal Essay
Apart from options we mentioned above, there is another alternative. When you are fruitlessly looking for possible topics and cannot find anything, it is time for using the Internet. There are many lists with suggestions people could choose from — they offer free themes and encourage students to pick them in case they find them inspiring. We present 50 top ideas that could give you a sense of direction.
Personal Statement Topics on Your Past
These topics for personal statement never get old. Look into your life; consider every relevant moment that has ever happened. Here are some ideas.
- First Day at School: My Fears, Hopes, and Strength I Gained
- Living with Workaholic Parents & How This Background Made Me Who I Am
- Accepting a Concept of Death: Frightening Story of Loss, Recovery, and Acceptance
- Overcoming Envy and Learning Self-Control
- Why I Hated Risks and How I Learned to Start Taking Them
- How Reading This Book Changed My Life & Goals
- When I Realized Why I Want to Go to College
- The Event That Brought Me to a Start & Changed Direction of My Life
- The Thing You Did That You Are Still Proud Of
- Which Event Made You Regain Faith in Humanity
Personal Statement Ideas About Challenges
We all have challenges, and some of them leave a deep mark on our hearts. Check these good personal statement topics examples — maybe they’ll remind you of a problem that you managed to overcome.
- First Taste of Betrayal & Its Impact on Me
- My Biggest Accomplishment and Challenges on Its Way
- How I Stepped Out of My Safety Zone & Changed My Core Belief
- How Being Academically Unsuccessful Made Me Want to Be the Best
- The Biggest Embarrassment of My Life: Learning From Mistakes
- Having Two Best Friends at Once Is Tough
- Coping with Stereotypes Inflicted By Other People
- Days When Panic Attacks Did Not Let Me Get Up From Bed
- Understanding Depression and Learning to Live with It
- Event That Broke My Heart & How I Healed It
Personal Statement Prompts on Academic Subjects
How about some subject-related ideas for personal statements? They are always welcome by application committees.
- My Love for Seeking Truth Was Born the Day I Discovered the Role of Law in Our Lives
- Visiting the Hospital for the First Time and Why It Fuelled My Interest in Medical Education
- My Work Was Stolen & It Woke My Interest in Intellectual Property
- Why Seemingly Impossible Career Seems Closer Now
- My Thirst for Knowledge and Why It Could Make Me a Good Journalist
- The Most Beautiful Building I’ve Ever Seen or the Day When My Love for Design Was Born
- Spending Every Sunday in My Life Cooking: Where Does That Lead Me?
- Outrageous Historical Lies and Why That Inspired Me to Study History
- From Toys to Engineering Devices: I Was an Inventor Before I Could Work
- Animals Are as Important as People: My Hopes For Becoming a Vet
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Personal Qualities Topics
People might have the same interests, but their personal characteristics make them different. These personal statement prompt examples could help demonstrate it.
- Being the Definition of Stubbornness & Its Ups and Downs
- Why My Resilience Makes Me a Good Fit For This College
- How Love and Education Come Together: My Background and My Goals
- Three Key Events That Boosted My Creativity
- Suspiciousness Is My Second Nature: It’ll Help Excel in My Field
- Passion for Politics I Carried Through Life: Then vs. Now
- Loving to Argue: Childhood Screaming Matches vs. Mature Evidence-Based Discussions
- Crying When Others Cry: How My Empathy Lets Me Live Complete Life
- What Having Creative Mind Means For Me
- I Wanted to Be a Superhero: How It Affected Who I Want to Be Now
Diversity Ideas
College personal statement topics related to diversity never lose their relevance.
- Witnessing Cruelty for the First Time and What It Taught Me
- The First Time I Faced Prejudice and Cried
- Complex Story of Figuring Out My Sexuality: Why Things Should Have Been Easier
- How My Race Affected My Social Acceptance
- Understanding Racism After Making a New Friend
- How I Believe Diversity Should Be Publicly Celebrated
- How Being Strange Became a Norm For Me
- Small Ways in Which I Intend to Change This World
- Why Diversity Is Key to Achieving Peace
- Racial Make-Up of My School Class and How It Shaped My Views
Write an Essay That’ll Move Everyone
As long as you’re truly invested in your chosen topics for personal statements, you have every chance of crafting a stunning essay. Basically, you’ll be retelling a meaningful experience from your life, showing how you found purpose and how it led you to select this specific college. This kind of writing is always emotional, so you could affect your readers and share your joy, pain, and determination. The more effective you are in this, the more likely it is that you’ll reach success. After you settle on personal statement essay topics, write about them with sincerity and passion, and this will definitely get you some precious points!
Can’t come up with a topic for you paper? We’ve prepared a collection of essay topics for you
Want to write a winning essay but lack experience? Browse our free essay samples
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Essay Topics: 450+ Awesome Picks
Ever wondered about the magic behind an essay that grabs your attention and won't let go? Let's spice up your writing journey with some cool topics! Imagine exploring time travel, digging into the stories of your favorite characters, or debating the future of tech. How about pouring your heart into a letter to your dream destination or uncovering the mysteries of history? Excited to make your essays stand out? Come along as we dive into these college essay topic ideas and take your writing to the next level!
Struggling to find the perfect essay topic? EssayPro offers a plethora of choices to spark your creativity. From academic to personal, we have topics that will ignite your writing passion and help you produce exceptional essays.
How to Choose a Topic for an Essay
Selecting the right topic is like the secret sauce to crafting a standout essay, and it's surprising how many students breeze past this crucial step. Your essay's quality often hinges on the topic you choose, making it the make-or-break moment in your writing journey. Fear not, though! Our college paper writing service is here to make this process a breeze, offering some pro tips to ensure your essay topics are as remarkable as your writing.
- Tap into Current Affairs: Keep your finger on the pulse of current events. Choose a topic that relates to contemporary issues or ongoing debates. Not only does this make your essay timely and relevant, but it also showcases your awareness of the world around you.
- Seek Unconventional Angles: Don't be afraid to approach common topics from unconventional angles. Look for fresh perspectives or unique aspects that haven't been explored extensively. It's the unexpected twists that can turn a standard essay into something extraordinary.
- Consider Personal Experiences: Reflect on your own experiences and observations. Is there a personal story or moment that connects with your essay's theme? Sharing your perspective can add authenticity and depth to your writing, making it more relatable for your audience.
- Connect with Your Audience: Think about your target audience and what matters to them. Choosing a topic that resonates with your readers creates an immediate connection. Whether it's a shared interest, concern, or passion, this connection enhances the impact of your essay.
- Test the Waters: Before committing to a topic, test it out. Write a brief outline or a paragraph to see how comfortable and excited you are about exploring it further. This preliminary step helps you gauge your interest and ensures you have enough material to develop a compelling essay.
Ideas for Essay by Category
In the diverse landscape of academic writing, your study area might throw various essay types your way. However, let's zero in on four common categories that could very well become your writing companions, especially as you navigate through your undergraduate coursework.
Persuasive Writing
Imagine you're on a mission to persuade others. That's the essence of persuasive essays. Here, the goal is crystal clear—to sway your reader. It's a challenge that demands not just compelling arguments but also a touch of reason. Unlike expository essays, where facts reign supreme, persuasive essay topics thrive on opinion-based writing, allowing you to craft a narrative that hinges less on specific facts and more on convincing rhetoric.
Expository Writing
Switch gears to expository essays, where facts take the lead. These essays ask you to dig into research, analyze a topic, and present a position based on factual data without adding your personal opinions. Expository essay topics become a platform for showcasing your logical thinking and navigating through scientific articles.
Descriptive Writing
Now, picture yourself creating a vivid image with words. That's what descriptive writing is all about. When working on descriptive essay topics, you'll dive into your subject, using lots of descriptive words. It could be a person, a place, an event, or even a feeling – your goal is to vividly convey it without using first-person language.
Narrative Writing
For those drawn to the allure of storytelling, narrative essays beckon. These essays aim not just to inform but to captivate by weaving a tale spun from personal experiences. Following the standard essay structure of introduction, body, and conclusion, narrative essay topics introduce characters, describe actions, and always have a central theme.
Now that we've covered these essay types, get ready for a bunch of cool essay topic ideas coming your way to spark inspiration for your next writing assignment.
Topics for Technology Essay
In today's environment, technology is the driving force. Both cultural changes and technological improvements have significantly influenced the growth of human civilization. Thus, picking good essay topics about technology will provide you with plenty of material to draw on. Let's explore some effective essay topics recommended by our custom essay writing service.
- The Ethical Implications of Quantum Computing: A New Era in Information Security.
- Neuromorphic Engineering: Mimicking the Human Brain in Silicon.
- The Role of 5G in Revolutionizing Telemedicine and Remote Healthcare.
- The Environmental Impact of Cryptocurrency Mining: Beyond Energy Consumption.
- Bioinformatics and the Future of Personalized Medicine.
- Blockchain and the Decentralization of Social Media Platforms.
- The Potential of Swarm Robotics in Disaster Relief and Search & Rescue.
- Human Augmentation and the Ethical Dilemmas of Cyborg Technology.
- Advancements in Brain-Computer Interfaces: Bridging the Gap Between Mind and Machine.
- The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Predicting and Preventing Wildfires.
- 3D Printing Organs: A Revolution in Transplant Medicine.
- Quantum Internet: Unbreakable Security and the Future of Communication.
- The Dark Side of Smart Cities: Privacy Concerns in the Age of IoT.
- Space Debris: Challenges and Solutions for Managing Earth's Orbital Junkyard.
- The Intersection of Virtual Reality and Therapy: Healing Through Immersion.
- The Rise of Drone Swarms: Applications and Ethical Concerns.
- The Impact of 3D Holography in Education and Training.
- Bioluminescent Technology: Illuminating the Path to Sustainable Lighting.
- The Evolution of Self-Replicating Nanobots in Medicine and Industry.
- Innovations in Sound Technology: From Bone Conduction to Sonic Weapons.
- Quantum Cryptography: Unhackable Communication for the Digital Age.
- The Future of Food Tech: Lab-Grown Meat and Sustainable Agriculture.
- Machine Learning in Judicial Systems: Bias, Fairness, and Accountability.
- Cryonics and Digital Immortality: Freezing Bodies and Uploading Consciousness.
- The Holographic Universe Theory: Exploring the Nature of Reality through Technology.
Cause and Effect Essay Ideas
To write on cause and effect essay topics, you should primarily identify a situation in which an action has effects or consequences. The next step is for you to describe what happened. If you're having trouble coming up with interesting essay topics, have a look through this list.
- The Ripple Effect of Kindness: How Small Acts Can Create Lasting Changes.
- Silent Killers of the Ocean: The Causes and Effects of Ocean Acidification.
- Echo Chambers in the Digital Age: How Online Algorithms Shape Our Beliefs and Behaviors.
- From Pixels to Insomnia: How Screen Blue Light Affects Sleep Patterns.
- The 'IKEA Effect': Psychological Causes and Economic Consequences of DIY Furniture Assembly.
- Antibiotic Overuse: Creating Resistant Superbugs and Impacts on Human Health.
- Lost in Light: How Light Pollution Affects Astronomy and Biodiversity.
- The Influence of Social Media on Political Polarization: Causes and Effects.
- Urban Sprawl: Causes, Consequences, and the Decline of Green Spaces.
- The Domino Effect of Misinformation: From Social Media to Real-World Consequences.
- The Butterfly Effect of Climate Change: Small Actions with Global Consequences.
- The Psychology of Color in Marketing: How Hues Impact Consumer Choices.
- The 'Joy of Missing Out' (JOMO): Causes and Effects in the Age of FOMO.
- The 'Viral' Effect of Social Media Challenges: Causes and Impacts on Youth Behavior.
- The High Cost of Cheap Fashion: Environmental and Ethical Consequences.
- Overparenting: Causes and Effects on Child Development and Independence.
- The Power of Habit: How Routines Shape Our Lives and Goals.
- The 'Gig Economy' Phenomenon: Causes and Effects on Job Security.
- The Paradox of Choice: How an Abundance of Options Impacts Decision-Making.
- Digital Nomads: Causes and Consequences of a Remote Work Lifestyle.
- Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Causes and Effects on Mental Well-Being.
- 'Helicopter Parenting': Its Origins and Effects on Children's Independence.
- The Psychological Impact of Personalized Advertising: Causes and Consequences.
- The Decline of Bookstores: Digitalization's Effects on Reading Habits.
- The Influence of Food Advertising on Childhood Obesity: Causes and Consequences.
- Perfectionism in the Digital Age: Causes and Impacts on Mental Health.
- The 'Selfie Culture': Its Origins and Effects on Self-Esteem.
- The Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive Function: Causes and Consequences.
- The Psychology of Hoarding: Causes and Effects on Mental Health and Relationships.
- 'Cancel Culture': Causes and Impacts on Free Speech and Public Figures.
Problem Solution Essay Topics
One of their strongest features is that the problem-solution essay topic has a very obvious format. You must state the issue, discuss its significance, outline your proposed fix, and justify why it is the best option. Our essay writer will help you in your writing endeavors by compiling a list of things to write about.
- Addressing the Loneliness Epidemic in the Digital Age: Strategies for Connection.
- Combating Fake News: Solutions for Media Literacy and Information Verification.
- Overcoming the Mental Health Stigma: Promoting Open Conversations and Resources.
- Sustainable Transportation: Solving the Urban Congestion and Emissions Problem.
- Closing the Gender Pay Gap: Policy Reforms and Corporate Initiatives.
- Reshaping Education for a Digital World: Integrating Technology and Reducing Disparities.
- Tackling Youth Unemployment: Job Training and Apprenticeship Programs.
- Combating Childhood Obesity: Promoting Healthy Lifestyles in Schools and Communities.
- Revitalizing Dying Rural Communities: Strategies for Economic Growth and Well-Being.
- Solving the Plastic Pollution Crisis: Alternatives and Recycling Initiatives.
- Reducing Food Waste: Strategies for Sustainable Consumption and Distribution.
- Addressing Cybersecurity Threats: Strengthening Online Privacy and Defenses.
- Bridging the Digital Divide: Expanding Internet Access to Underserved Communities.
- Fighting Corruption: Promoting Transparency and Accountability in Government.
- Climate Change Mitigation: Implementing Green Energy Solutions and Policies.
- Curbing the Opioid Epidemic: Comprehensive Approaches to Addiction and Recovery.
- Ensuring Affordable Healthcare: Reforms to Make Medical Treatment Accessible to All.
- Sustainable Agriculture: Promoting Organic Farming and Reducing Pesticides.
- Preventing Bullying in Schools: Anti-Bullying Programs and Supportive Environments.
- Enhancing Water Conservation: Solutions to Address Scarcity and Pollution.
- Promoting Renewable Energy: Encouraging Solar, Wind, and Hydroelectric Power.
- Curbing Gun Violence: Gun Control Measures and Mental Health Initiatives.
- Affordable Housing Solutions: Addressing the Housing Crisis in Urban Areas.
- Improving Air Quality: Measures to Reduce Pollution in Urban Environments.
- Reducing Prescription Drug Costs: Strategies for Affordable Medication.
- Revamping the Criminal Justice System: Addressing Mass Incarceration and Rehabilitation.
- Combating Human Trafficking: Support Services and Legal Reforms.
- Solving the Global Water Crisis: Access to Clean Water and Sanitation.
- Curbing Drunk Driving: Promoting Responsible Alcohol Consumption and Transportation Alternatives.
- Addressing Elderly Isolation: Community Support and Inclusion Programs.
Informative Essay Topics
You may demonstrate your knowledge by writing informative essays. They all focus on educating the reader without attempting to convince or express an opinion. Let's look at some good essay topics catering to all age groups and preferences.
- The Surprising World of Mycorrhizal Fungi: Underground Networks in Nature.
- The Art of Bonsai: Cultivating Miniature Trees and Their History.
- Hidden Gems of the Deep Sea: Bioluminescent Creatures and Their Adaptations.
- The Lost City of Atlantis: Myth, Legend, and Scientific Exploration.
- The Forgotten Languages: Exploring Endangered and Undocumented Dialects.
- The History of Cartography: How Maps Have Shaped Human Understanding.
- The Science of Laughter: Why We Laugh and How It Benefits Us.
- Mysterious Crop Circles: Unraveling the Enigma of Their Origins.
- The Wonders of Tardigrades: Microscopic Creatures that Can Survive Extreme Conditions.
- The Art of Japanese Tea Ceremony: Tradition, Ritual, and Philosophy.
- The Enigma of Stonehenge: Ancient Megaliths and Their Purpose.
- The World of Competitive Lock Picking: Skills, Strategies, and Ethics.
- The Secret Language of Flowers: Symbolism and Communication Through Floriography.
- The Mystery of D.B. Cooper: The Unsolved Disappearance and Aerial Heist.
- The Science of Dreams: Understanding Sleep and Unconscious Mind Processes.
- The Art of Forensic Odontology: Solving Crimes through Dental Records.
- The Ingenious World of Rube Goldberg Machines: Complex Simplicity in Action.
- The Unusual World of Extreme Ironing: Ironing in the Most Unexpected Places.
- The Enigmatic Voynich Manuscript: A Book of Untranslatable Symbols and Plants.
- The Cultural Significance of Masquerade and Carnival Celebrations Worldwide.
- The Origins of Mythical Creatures: Dragons, Griffins, and the Imagination.
- The Art and Science of Glassblowing: Crafting Beautiful and Functional Glass Objects.
- The History and Cultural Significance of Hieroglyphics in Ancient Egypt.
- The Beauty of Bioluminescent Algae: Natural Light Shows in Oceans and Lakes.
- The Science of Taste: Exploring the Complexities of Flavor and Palate.
- The World of Competitive Whistling: Techniques, Styles, and Competitions.
- The Ancient Art of Origami: Paper Folding as a Cultural and Mathematical Practice.
- The Fascinating World of Coral Reefs: Ecosystems, Threats, and Conservation.
- The Art of Archery: Historical Development and Modern Sporting Aspects.
- The Psychology of Superstitions: Origins, Beliefs, and Cultural Variations.
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Research Essay Topics
You may not be aware of the sheer volume of responsibilities you will likely have throughout college. When it comes to delivering research papers on time, it could leave you feeling overloaded and drained. Thankfully, our dissertation writing help provided you with excellent research essay topics.
- The Impact of Microplastics on Human Health: A Comprehensive Study.
- Quantum Entanglement and Its Implications for Secure Communication.
- The Origins and Implications of Fermi Paradox in Astrophysics.
- The Role of Gut Microbiota in Mental Health and Cognitive Function.
- The Psychology of Conspiracy Theories: Motivations and Spread.
- The Intersection of Art and Artificial Intelligence: Creative Machines.
- Dark Matter: Unraveling the Mysterious Cosmic Enigma.
- The Anthropocene Era: Human Impact on Earth's Geological History.
- Memory Manipulation Techniques: Ethical Considerations and Applications.
- The Mystery of the Voynich Manuscript: A Multidisciplinary Approach.
- The Origins of the Universe: Big Bang Theory and Alternatives.
- The Cognitive Science of Language Evolution: How Did Language Begin?
- AI in Healthcare: Diagnosing Diseases and Predicting Outcomes.
- Quantum Computing and Cryptography: The Threats and Safeguards.
- The Ecology of Urban Rooftop Gardens: Benefits and Sustainability.
- Deep Learning in Autonomous Vehicles: Challenges and Innovations.
- The Pale Blue Dot: Prospects for Human Colonization of Mars.
- The Psychology of Decision-Making: Cognitive Biases and Rationality.
- The Interplay of Music and Memory: How Does Music Affect Recall?
- The Connection Between Sleep and Memory Consolidation: Neurological Insights.
- Synthetic Biology and the Creation of Artificial Life Forms.
- The Socioeconomic Impact of Universal Basic Income: Case Studies.
- Digital Privacy in the Age of Social Media: Risks and Protections.
- The Archaeology of Shipwrecks: Discoveries, Preservation, and Insights.
- The Evolution of Human Consciousness: Theories and Neuroscientific Findings.
- The Use of CRISPR Technology in Gene Editing: Ethical and Legal Issues.
- Predictive Policing and Crime Prevention: Efficacy and Ethical Concerns.
- The Mathematics of Fractals: Application in Natural Phenomena.
- The Global Impact of Rare Earth Elements: Mining and Sustainability.
- Brain-Computer Interfaces and the Future of Human-Machine Interaction.
Education Essay TopicsEducation Essay Topics
Certain themes always seem to come up while writing an essay on education. Some people find the constant discussion about education and schools to be a bit much, and when you're engaged in a topic, it may be challenging to come up with the ideal essay topic. Yet, to assist you in your quest for knowledge, we have compiled a list of ideas because of the importance of educational essay writing.
Good College Essay Topics
- The Art of Resilience: How Overcoming Challenges Shaped My Perspective.
- My Curious Connection with Quantum Physics: A Journey of Discovery.
- Embracing the Imperfections: Lessons from a Quirky Hobby.
- Exploring Hidden Histories: Uncovering Forgotten Voices in Local Archives.
- Discovering Cultural Identity: Navigating My Heritage in a Global World.
- Dive into the Underwater World: Lessons from My Scuba Adventures.
- Through the Lens of a Microscope: My Fascination with the Minuscule.
- The Puzzle of Language: How Learning Mandarin Opened Doors.
- Lost in Translation: Navigating Cross-Cultural Misunderstandings.
- Journey of Empathy: My Experiences Volunteering with Refugees.
- Living off the Grid: A Year of Sustainability and Self-Reliance.
- The Soundtrack of My Life: How Music Has Shaped My Identity.
- Finding Beauty in the Mundane: Photography as a Personal Journey.
- The Science of Gastronomy: Exploring Food as a Cultural Experience.
- The Written Universe: My Love Affair with Literature and Storytelling.
Essay On School
- Fostering Critical Thinking: How Schools Can Encourage Independent Thought.
- Beyond Grades: Rethinking Assessment Methods in Modern Education.
- The Influence of School Architecture on Learning and Creativity.
- The Psychology of Bullying: Understanding and Preventing School Bullying.
- Cultivating Digital Citizenship: Teaching Responsibility in the Internet Age.
Student Life Essay
- Exploring the Impact of Student-Teacher Relationships on Academic Success.
- The Art of Time Management: Balancing Study, Work, and Social Life.
- Navigating Campus Diversity: Building Bridges and Fostering Inclusivity.
- The Power of Mentorship: How Student Mentorship Programs Shape Futures.
- The Digital Student: How Technology Is Reshaping Learning and Socializing.
- Facing the Freshman Fears: Overcoming Anxiety and Adjusting to College Life.
- Living Off-Campus: The Pros and Cons of Commuting vs. On-Campus Housing.
- Student Activism: Channeling Passion into Social and Political Change.
- Learning Beyond the Classroom: The Role of Student Clubs and Organizations.
- The Art of Self-Care: Prioritizing Mental and Physical Well-Being in Student Life.
Personal essay topics explore your lifestyle, ideas, and encounters. Readers will gain insight into your most private life events and thoughts from this kind of paper. The secret to success is to try to merge viewpoints and storytelling. The ideas listed below might serve as inspiration for you.
Essay About YourselfEssay About Yourself
- The Unexpected Influences: People and Experiences That Shaped My Identity.
- The Art of Self-Reflection: Discovering My Strengths and Weaknesses.
- Beyond the Comfort Zone: How Challenging Experiences Define Me.
- My Multifaceted Passions: Exploring the Diverse Hobbies That Make Me Who I Am.
- My Personal Growth Journey: Transformative Moments and Lessons Learned.
- My Cultural Mosaic: How My Background and Heritage Influence My Life.
- The Soundtrack of My Life: Songs and Lyrics That Speak to My Soul.
- My Creative Universe: Exploring My Artistic Expression and Inspirations.
- From Words to Worlds: How Writing Has Shaped My Thoughts and Perspective.
- The Road Less Traveled: My Unique Travel Experiences and Their Impact.
My Hobby Essay
- Exploring the Art of Watercolor Painting: A Creative Escape.
- Percussion Passion: How Drum Circles Became My Rhythm of Life.
- History Unearthed: Metal Detecting for Hidden Treasures and Stories.
- Wild at Heart: Bird Watching and the World of Ornithology.
- The Zen of Bonsai: Cultivating Miniature Trees as a Relaxing Hobby.
- Culinary Adventures: The Joy of Experimental Cooking and Food Exploration.
- My Green Sanctuary: Urban Gardening and Cultivating a Miniature Oasis.
- The Dance of Words: How Poetry Became My Expressive Outlet.
- Beyond the Lens: Capturing Moments and Emotions Through Photography.
- Riding the Waves: Surfing as a Lifestyle and Connection with Nature.
Childhood Memories
- The Magic of My Childhood Hideaway: Exploring My Secret Garden.
- Through the Lens of Nostalgia: A Photo Journey of My Early Years.
- The Treasure Box of Childhood: Forgotten Trinkets and Their Stories.
- From Chalk to Chalkboard: A Walk Down Memory Lane in My First School.
- Ice Cream Truck Melodies: A Sweet Soundtrack to My Summer Memories.
- Games We Played: Recreating the Fun and Friendships of My Youth.
- Sunday Morning Cartoon Rituals: Exploring My Weekend Escape.
- When Dinosaurs Roamed: My Fascination with Prehistoric Childhood Adventures.
- Blanket Forts and Imaginary Worlds: The Power of Childhood Creativity.
- Grandma's Kitchen: The Aromas, Tastes, and Lessons of My Early Years.
My Best Friend Essay
- A Lifelong Friendship: The Story of My Best Friend and Me.
- Kindred Spirits: How My Best Friend and I Found Each Other.
- Through Thick and Thin: The Unbreakable Bond with My Best Friend.
- Adventures with My Partner in Crime: Tales from My Best Friend.
- A Friendship Forged in Childhood: Growing Up with My Best Friend.
- The Soundtrack of Our Friendship: Songs, Memories, and Shared Moments.
- Beyond Words: How My Best Friend Understands Me Like No One Else.
- Travel Companions: Exploring the World with My Best Friend by My Side.
- Challenges and Triumphs: How My Best Friend and I Overcame Obstacles Together.
- Lessons in Friendship: What My Best Friend Has Taught Me About Life.
Personal Essay Topics
Essay about yourself, ideas for an opinion essay.
You may think of topics for an opinion essay as types of sentences that sum up the entire piece. The same holds true for any piece of writing that expresses a viewpoint. Excellent discussion topics should relate to the core subjects and the student's strongest competencies. A good opinion essay poses an issue, formulates a question, and then makes a statement. Below are some inspirational opinion topic examples for essay writing.
- The Impact of AI on Human Creativity: Friend or Foe?
- The Role of Humor in Political Satire: Effectiveness and Boundaries.
- The Future of Space Exploration: Public vs. Private Initiatives.
- The Influence of Social Media on Democracy: A Blessing or a Curse?
- Exploring the Appeal of Dystopian Fiction: Insights into Our Society.
- The Ethics of Gene Editing: Should We Play with Our DNA?
- The Future of Remote Work: Balancing Flexibility and Human Connection.
- The Necessity of Renewable Energy: Is Fossil Fuel a Thing of the Past?
- Cryptocurrency and Traditional Banking: Can They Coexist or Compete?
- The Influence of Pop Culture on Body Image: The Power of Media.
- The Debate on Universal Basic Income: A Solution to Income Inequality?
- The Role of Art in Times of Crisis: Expression, Reflection, or Protest?
- The Paradox of Internet Privacy: Convenience vs. Surveillance.
- The Changing Landscape of Education: Traditional vs. Online Learning.
- Cultural Appropriation in Fashion: Where Do We Draw the Line?
- The Impact of Virtual Reality on Empathy and Desensitization.
- The Controversy of Fast Fashion: Environmental Consequences and Alternatives.
- The Ethics of Animal Testing in Scientific Research: Necessity or Cruelty?
- The Value of Philosophy in the Modern World: Pragmatism or Idealism?
- The Future of Work: Automation, Job Displacement, and the Human Touch.
Ideas for Nature Essay
Nature essay topics may examine how human activity affects the environment or how nature affects people. There are several directions that nature essays might go in. Ones that describe how beautiful nature is might motivate readers. On the other hand, an essay on pollution can be thought-provoking and encourage one to act. You may also use an informative essay on environmental pollution to explain how people harm the environment. Let's explore the next areas of nature essay ideas for more details.
Environment Essay
- Eco-Anxiety and Climate Change: Navigating the Psychological Impact.
- Rewilding Urban Landscapes: Restoring Biodiversity in the Concrete Jungle.
- The Ecological Importance of Bees: Beyond Honey Production.
- The Role of Indigenous Knowledge in Sustainable Environmental Management.
- The Sounds of Nature: How Noise Pollution Affects Ecosystems and Wildlife.
- Marine Permaculture: Seaweed Farming and Carbon Sequestration.
- Biomimicry in Design: Learning from Nature to Solve Environmental Problems.
- Waste-to-Energy Innovations: Turning Trash into Renewable Resources.
- Mycorrhizal Networks: The Wood Wide Web and Its Impact on Forest Health.
- Eco-Friendly Funeral Practices: Sustainable Farewell to Loved Ones.
- The Art of Upcycling: Transforming Trash into Treasure in the Circular Economy.
- The Silence of the Night: Light Pollution's Effects on Nocturnal Environments.
- Vanishing Water Bodies: Investigating the Disappearing Lakes and Rivers.
- The Secret Lives of Trees: How Forests Communicate and Support Each Other.
- Food Forests: Nourishing Communities Through Permaculture.
- Silent Spring Revisited: Pesticides, Wildlife, and Ecosystem Resilience.
- The Plight of Pollinators: Bee Decline and Impacts on Food Security.
- E-Waste Recycling Challenges: Addressing the Electronic Waste Problem.
- Desertification and Land Degradation: Causes, Consequences, and Solutions.
- The Environmental Impact of Space Exploration: Beyond the Stars and Back to Earth.
Essay on Deforestation
- Deforestation's Ripple Effect: Impact on Global Climate Patterns.
- The Role of Indigenous Communities in Combating Deforestation.
- Deforestation in the Amazon: Implications for Biodiversity and Indigenous Rights.
- Deforestation and Food Security: The Link Between Forest Loss and Agriculture.
- Urbanization and Deforestation: The Unseen Consequences of Rapid Development.
- The Timber Trade: Addressing the Drivers of Illegal Logging and Deforestation.
- Deforestation in Southeast Asia: Palm Oil Production and Its Environmental Costs.
- Deforestation and Water Resources: How Forests Play a Critical Role in Watershed Protection.
- Reversing Deforestation: Reforestation Initiatives and their Potential.
- Indigenous Knowledge and Sustainable Forest Management: Lessons from Traditional Practices.
Pollution Essay
- Air Pollution in Urban Environments: Impacts on Health and Well-Being.
- Plastic Pollution in Oceans: The Silent Threat to Marine Life.
- Noise Pollution: Unheard Consequences on Human Health and Wildlife.
- Soil Contamination: The Effects of Pollutants on Agriculture and Ecosystems.
- Light Pollution: Its Impact on Astronomy, Wildlife, and Human Circadian Rhythms.
- Radioactive Pollution: Chornobyl, Fukushima, and the Long-Term Consequences.
- Microplastics in the Food Chain: How Pollution Enters Our Diets.
- Industrial Pollution: Case Studies of Notable Environmental Disasters.
- E-Waste and Electronic Pollution: The Global Challenge of Discarded Electronics.
- Emerging Pollutants: Exploring the Environmental Impact of Pharmaceuticals and Chemicals.
Water Pollution Essay
- The Impact of Industrial Effluents on Water Quality and Aquatic Life.
- From Source to Sea: Tracing the Path of Water Pollution in Rivers.
- The Role of Agriculture in Water Pollution: Pesticides, Runoff, and Sustainable Practices.
- Water Pollution in Developing Nations: Access, Contamination, and Health Impacts.
- The Dead Zones: Causes and Consequences of Oxygen-Depleted Waters in Oceans.
- Water Pollution and Endocrine Disruptors: Understanding the Hormonal Effects.
- Groundwater Pollution: Sources, Contamination, and Remediation Efforts.
- The Flint Water Crisis: Lessons in Drinking Water Contamination and Public Health.
- Microplastics in Water: Tiny Pollutants, Big Environmental Concerns.
- Innovative Technologies for Water Pollution Control and Treatment.
My Favorite Season
- The Season of Blossoms: Why Spring Holds a Special Place in My Heart.
- Embracing the Heat: Summer's Sun, Fun, and Adventures.
- Fall's Fiery Colors: The Beauty of Autumn's Changing Leaves.
- Cozy Winter Days: Celebrating the Chilly Season with Warmth and Comfort.
- Seasonal Sensations: A Journey Through My Favorite Time of the Year.
- My Ideal Season: Exploring the Allure of My Chosen Season.
- Seasonal Delights: Savoring the Flavors and Culinary Traditions of My Favorite Time of the Year.
- Nature's Beauty Unveiled: Capturing the Essence of My Beloved Season.
- Seasonal Hobbies and Pastimes: The Activities That Define My Favorite Season.
- A Season of Memories: Recollections and Experiences That Make It My Favorite.
A Raining Day Essay
- The Serenity of Rainy Days: A Mood-Enhancing Experience.
- Rain-Soaked Moments: Finding Beauty in Wet Weather.
- A Day for Cozy Comfort: Embracing Rainy Weather as an Opportunity.
- Rainy Day Adventures: Making the Most of Indoor Activities.
- Refreshing Rain: Exploring the Positive Aspects of a Wet Day.
Psychology Topics for Essay
- The Power of Human Memory: How We Remember and Forget.
- Nature vs. Nurture: The Debate on Genetic and Environmental Influences.
- Cognitive Development in Children: Piaget's Stages of Learning.
- The Mind-Body Connection: Understanding the Impact of Mental Health on Physical Health.
- Abnormal Behavior: Exploring Mental Disorders and Treatment Approaches.
- Attachment Theory and Relationships: The Impact of Early Bonds on Adulthood.
- The Halo Effect: How Physical Attractiveness Influences Perception.
- The Placebo Effect: Unraveling the Mind's Role in Healing.
- Emotional Intelligence: How Understanding and Managing Emotions Impacts Success.
- The Obedience Experiments: Milgram's Shocking Insights into Human Behavior.
- Positive Psychology: The Science of Well-Being and Happiness.
- The Social-Cognitive Theory: How Observational Learning Shapes Behavior.
- The Power of Self-Fulfilling Prophecies: How Expectations Influence Outcomes.
- Understanding Motivation: Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Factors.
- Cognitive Dissonance: Exploring the Tension Between Belief and Action.
- Personality Theories: Freud, Jung, and the Complexities of Individual Differences.
- The Role of Mirror Neurons in Empathy and Social Understanding.
- Coping Mechanisms: How Individuals Adapt to Stress and Adversity.
- The Stages of Grief: Kubler-Ross's Model of Emotional Response to Loss.
- The Influence of Color on Emotions and Behavior.
- Groupthink: The Dangers of Conformity in Decision-Making.
- The Effect of Music on Mood and Cognitive Performance.
- Understanding Sleep Disorders: From Insomnia to Sleep Apnea.
- Parenting Styles: How Different Approaches Impact Child Development.
- The Dark Triad of Personality: Narcissism, Machiavellianism, and Psychopathy.
- The Role of Dopamine in Reward and Addiction.
- The Zone of Proximal Development: Vygotsky's Theory of Learning.
- The Power of Cognitive Biases: How Mental Shortcuts Affect Decision-Making.
- The Uncanny Valley: The Intersection of Robots, Humanoids, and Human Emotion.
- Sports Psychology: The Mental Aspects of Athletic Performance and Competition.
As psychology has several subfields, you must be aware of which ones to focus on while writing a strong essay. If you need ideas, have a look at the following psychological topics for essay:
Gender Equality Essay
There are many different concerns in the field of gender studies. Nonetheless, you must select an original gender equality essay topic from among them, such as the salary gap, the bias against women in the classroom, women empowerment essay topics, etc. Here are a few pointers that may help you choose an excellent topic.
- Gender Equality in STEM Fields: Overcoming the Gender Gap.
- Women in Leadership: Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Corporate America.
- The Impact of Gender Equality on Economic Growth and Development.
- Men and Mental Health: Destigmatizing Vulnerability and Seeking Help.
- Gender Equality in Sports: Equal Pay, Opportunities, and Recognition.
- The Intersection of Gender and Race: Understanding and Addressing Double Discrimination.
- Parental Leave Policies: Supporting Both Genders in Balancing Work and Family.
- Gender Equality in Education: Encouraging Girls to Pursue STEM and Boys to Embrace the Arts.
- Gender-Neutral Language: Promoting Inclusive Communication and Representation.
- LGBTQ+ Rights and Gender Identity: A Fight for Inclusivity and Acceptance.
- Women's Rights in Conflict Zones: Addressing Gender-Based Violence and Displacement.
- The Role of Men as Allies in the Fight for Gender Equality.
- Gender Equality and the Aging Workforce: Challenging Ageism and Sexism.
- Gender Equality and Technology: Bridging the Digital Gender Divide.
- Gendered Marketing and Consumer Culture: Promoting Fair Representation.
- Gender Stereotypes in Media: How Entertainment Shapes Perceptions.
- Maternal Health and Gender Equality: Ensuring Safe Motherhood Worldwide.
- Gender Equality and Aging: Examining Retirement Disparities and Social Support.
- Gender and Environmental Sustainability: Women's Roles in Climate Change Mitigation.
- Transgender Rights: Advocating for Legal Protections and Social Inclusion.
Proposal Essay Topics
Proposals can be prepared for a scholarly audience like your teacher or students or a broader audience like a government entity or corporation. Everyone studying in high school or college will find our list of proposal essay topics helpful; if you find one you like, feel free to take it and begin researching.
- Implementing a Universal Basic Income: Addressing Income Inequality.
- Creating Inclusive Curriculum: Promoting Diversity in Education.
- A Sustainable Fashion Initiative: Reducing the Environmental Impact of Clothing.
- Expanding Mental Health Services in Schools: Fostering Student Well-Being.
- Promoting Green Transportation: Incentives for Electric and Sustainable Vehicles.
- Combatting Food Deserts: Strategies for Accessible and Affordable Nutrition.
- Enhancing Cybersecurity in Small Businesses: Protecting Against Digital Threats.
- Restorative Justice Programs in Schools: Reducing Disciplinary Measures.
- Encouraging Community Gardening: Promoting Urban Agriculture and Sustainability.
- Implementing a Four-Day Workweek: Balancing Productivity and Employee Well-Being.
- Developing Sustainable Housing Solutions for Homeless Individuals.
- The Adoption of Renewable Energy in Public Buildings: Lowering Carbon Emissions.
- Establishing a Plastic Tax: Reducing Single-Use Plastic Consumption.
- Expanding Telemedicine Services: Increasing Access to Healthcare in Remote Areas.
- Promoting Financial Literacy in Schools: Equipping Students for Financial Success.
- Enhancing Disaster Preparedness at the Community Level: A Call for Resilience.
- A Zero-Waste Policy for Restaurants: Reducing Food and Packaging Waste.
- Promoting Civic Engagement Among Youth: Strategies for Active Participation.
- Encouraging Companies to Invest in Employee Well-Being Programs.
- The Implementation of Green Roofs: Improving Urban Sustainability and Cooling.
Process Analysis Essay Topics
Outstanding process analysis essay topics are necessary for crafting a decent paper. Process essay topics allow you to format your piece effectively and offer your ideas to the target audience in a way they can grasp. Let's go through the list for inspiration:
- Mastering the Art of Sourdough Bread Baking: A Step-by-Step Guide.
- From Coffee Beans to Espresso: Crafting the Perfect Cup of Coffee.
- DIY Home Brewing: Creating Your Signature Craft Beer.
- The Process of Composting: Turning Food Scraps into Nutrient-Rich Soil.
- Becoming a Minimalist: Simplifying Your Life, One Step at a Time.
- Mastering the Art of Public Speaking: Overcoming Stage Fright and Captivating Your Audience.
- From Sketch to Canvas: Creating a Stunning Oil Painting.
- Starting Your Own Podcast: A Step-by-Step Guide to Podcast Production.
- The Journey of Creating a Homemade Candle: Aromatic Creations at Home.
- The Science of Chocolate Making: From Cacao Bean to Mouthwatering Bar.
- Upcycling Old Furniture: Transforming Trash into Treasure.
- The Art of Time Management: Strategies for Boosting Productivity and Efficiency.
- Perfecting Your Yoga Practice: Aligning Mind, Body, and Breath.
- Mastering the Art of Sushi Rolling: Crafting Delicious Japanese Cuisine at Home.
- From Idea to Published Book: Navigating the Writing and Publishing Process.
- Learning the Basics of Photography: Capturing Stunning Moments with Your Camera.
- A Beginner's Guide to Gardening: Growing Your Own Vegetables and Herbs.
- The Process of Making Homemade Ice Cream: Delicious Flavors in Your Kitchen.
- Creating a Stunning Flower Arrangement: Designing Floral Beauty.
- The Journey to a Digital Detox: Unplugging and Finding Balance in the Digital Age.
Essay Ideas on Stereotypes
Because stereotypes are such a pervasive societal problem, educators often encourage students to reflect on them. The only way to create stereotype topics for essays is to identify the societal and daily thought patterns, trace their links, and record them in writing. After learning how to create a stereotype essay, you can look for the ideal topic examples for essay. So, let's explore them together:
- Stereotyping in the Workplace: Challenges and Solutions.
- Cultural Stereotypes: Impact on Cross-Cultural Communication.
- Media Portrayal of Villains: Unraveling the Stereotypical Archetypes.
- Gender Stereotypes in Children's Toys and Their Consequences.
- The Stereotype Threat: How Prejudice Affects Performance.
- The Role of Education in Breaking Stereotypes: Curriculum and Beyond.
- The Impact of Stereotypes on Mental Health: Addressing Stigma.
- Breaking Racial Stereotypes: Stories of Resilience and Change.
- Deconstructing the 'Lazy' Stereotype: Understanding the Socioeconomic Factors.
- The Role of Language in Reinforcing Stereotypes: Linguistic Discrimination.
- Disability Stereotypes: Shifting Perspectives on Abilities and Inclusion.
- Stereotypes and the Elderly: Challenging Ageism in Society.
- The Unseen Stereotypes of the LGBTQ+ Community: Hidden Biases and Myths.
- The Role of Stereotypes in Political Discourse: Influences on Public Opinion.
- Religious Stereotypes: Impact on Tolerance, Acceptance, and Interfaith Dialogue.
- Beyond Beauty: The Stereotyping of Physical Appearance and Self-Esteem.
- Counter Stereotyping: Strategies for Change and Empowerment.
- Stereotypes in Literature and Pop Culture: Analyzing Subversion and Reinforcement.
- The Role of Social Media in Perpetuating or Debunking Stereotypes.
- Stereotypes in the Digital Age: The Consequences of Online Prejudice.
Ideas on Essay about COVID-19
The Coronavirus has overrun the planet, which has kept us indoors. Life, as we know it, has transformed. As a result, leaving us with far more questions than solutions. As the epidemic has affected practically every aspect of our lives, it is crucial to comprehend it by composing interesting essay topics on this matter:
- The 'Infodemic': Analyzing the Impact of Misinformation during the Pandemic.
- The Psychological Toll of Lockdowns: Examining Mental Health Challenges.
- COVID-19 and the Global Economy: Economic Consequences and Recovery Strategies.
- Pandemic Parenting: Balancing Work, Childcare, and Remote Learning.
- The Vaccine Rollout: Successes, Challenges, and Equity Issues.
- The Ethical Dilemmas of Vaccine Passports: Balancing Privacy and Public Health.
- The Role of Telemedicine in Pandemic Healthcare: Opportunities and Limitations.
- The Influence of COVID-19 on Climate Change: Lessons in Environmental Resilience.
- COVID-19's Impact on Education: The Digital Divide and Future Learning Trends.
- The Role of NGOs and Volunteerism in Pandemic Relief Efforts.
- Pandemic-Induced Tech Acceleration: The Long-Term Effects on Digital Transformation.
- Healthcare Disparities Exposed: Examining COVID-19's Impact on Vulnerable Communities.
- Contact Tracing and Privacy Concerns: Balancing Surveillance and Public Health.
- The Role of Artists in Documenting and Responding to the Pandemic.
- COVID-19 Long Haulers: Exploring the Experiences of Prolonged Symptoms.
- The Pandemic and Democracy: Lessons in Governance, Transparency, and Trust.
- The Cultural Shifts Triggered by the Pandemic: Changes in Social Norms and Behavior.
- The Future of Work: Remote Work, Hybrid Models, and Office Spaces Post-Pandemic.
- COVID-19 and Global Travel: Balancing Tourism and Public Health.
- The Ethical and Legal Implications of Pandemic Response: Balancing Civil Liberties and Public Safety.
Topics for Essay Based on Proverbs
Proverbs are a powerful tool for writing that may increase the impact of your points and assist your readers in believing you when you employ them. Let's examine some sayings that will make powerful topics for essays:
- The Power of Actions: Examining the Real-Life Significance of 'Actions Speak Louder Than Words.'
- The Art of Financial Decision-Making: A Deep Dive into 'Penny Wise, Pound Foolish.'
- Risk and Reward: Exploring 'Don't Put All Your Eggs in One Basket' in Modern Investment Strategies.
- Silver Linings in Hard Times: How 'Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining' Applies to Resilience.
- Causality and Consequences: Analyzing 'You Reap What You Sow' in Various Aspects of Life.
Compare and Contrast Essay Topics
Identifying and evaluating the distinctions and patterns between two subjects that fall under the same category is the focus of a compare and contrast essay. If you've been assigned to write such a paper, you should seek engaging comparative essay topics. So, take a look at some related essay questions examples created by our essay help platform:
- The Surrealist Art of Salvador Dali vs. the Abstract Expressionism of Jackson Pollock.
- The Novels of Jane Austen vs. the Novels of the Brontë Sisters: Themes and Characters.
- The Harlem Renaissance vs. the Civil Rights Movement: Cultural and Political Impact.
- Hinduism vs. Buddhism: Philosophical Differences and Spiritual Practices.
- The French Revolution vs. the American Revolution: Causes and Outcomes.
- Impressionist Painting vs. Pointillism: Techniques and Artistic Movements.
- The Poetry of Langston Hughes vs. Maya Angelou: Themes and Styles.
- The Victorian Era vs. the Edwardian Era: Social Norms and Fashion.
- Realism in Literature vs. Magical Realism: Narrative Approaches and Themes.
- The Films of Alfred Hitchcock vs. Stanley Kubrick: Cinematic Styles and Techniques.
- Greek Mythology vs. Roman Mythology: Gods, Stories, and Cultural Influence.
- Renewable Energy vs. Nuclear Energy: Environmental Impact and Sustainability.
- Classical Music vs. Jazz: Origins, Instruments, and Musical Composition.
- The Leadership Styles of Mahatma Gandhi vs. Nelson Mandela: Methods and Impact.
- The Symbolism in William Faulkner's Works vs. Toni Morrison's Novels: Literary Analysis.
- Gothic Architecture vs. Art Deco Architecture: Aesthetic Characteristics and Historical Context.
- The Italian Renaissance vs. the Northern Renaissance: Artistic Techniques and Influences.
- The Philosophies of Friedrich Nietzsche vs. Jean-Paul Sartre: Existentialism and Morality.
- The Writings of Edgar Allan Poe vs. H.P. Lovecraft: Horror Genre and Literary Themes.
- The Classical Ballet vs. Contemporary Dance: Choreography and Expression.
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Personal Essays: Harmonizing Intimacy and Formality
Did you know that the world-renowned author George Orwell once penned a personal essay titled 'Shooting an Elephant'? It's a powerful testament to the genre's ability to convey personal experiences while addressing broader themes. Personal essays, much like Orwell's, have the remarkable capacity to delve into the intimate corners of one's life while resonating with a wide audience. This essay genre thrives on the delicate balance between exposing the personal and upholding a formal structure.
Personal Essays: Short Description
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the world of personal essays, where the power of storytelling meets the precision of formal writing. Discover the essential steps for crafting your own compelling narrative, explore the proper format for personal essay to gain insights, and learn how to strike the elusive balance between intimacy and formality. Whether you're an aspiring writer looking to hone your skills or a student preparing a college application, this article offers valuable advice and inspiration. Join us as we delve into the art of personal essay writing, exploring topics ranging from choosing the right narrative to refining your unique voice.
What is a Personal Essay: Definition and Characteristics
A personal narrative essay is more than just professional writing on a page; it's a voyage into the author's inner world, a glimpse into their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Unlike traditional essays, which often aim to inform or persuade, personal essays invite readers into the writer's personal narrative. They are a blend of storytelling and reflection, combining vivid anecdotes with introspective analysis.
Characterized by their authenticity and emotional resonance, personal essays reveal the writer's vulnerability, allowing readers to connect on a profound level. These essays often explore universal themes through the lens of personal experience, creating a bridge between the writer's life and the broader human experience. Here are some of its key characteristics:
- First-Person Perspective: Personal essays are typically written in the first person, offering a direct and intimate connection between the writer and the reader.
- Narrative Style: They often employ storytelling techniques, weaving personal anecdotes, experiences, or events into the narrative.
- Emotional Depth: Personal essays explore emotions, feelings, and personal reactions, creating an emotional connection with the reader.
- Reflection and Insight: Authors engage in introspection, providing thoughtful analysis or commentary on their experiences offering deeper meaning or lessons learned.
- Subjective Voice: These essays reflect the writer's unique voice and perspective, emphasizing subjectivity rather than objectivity.
A Personal Essay vs. Other Essay Types
When it comes to essays, the literary landscape offers a rich tapestry of genres and styles. Among them, the personal essay stands as a distinct and compelling form of expression, but how does it differ from other types?
1. Perspective: 'The 'I' Factor'
Personal essays prominently feature the first-person perspective, inviting readers to experience the writer's world from a personal and intimate angle, while other essay types often maintain a more objective tone.
2. Source Material: 'Your Life as the Source'
In this kind of essay, the writer's own life experiences and personal essay examples take center stage as primary sources, diverging from other essays that rely on external research and citations to support their arguments.
3. Purpose: 'Emotion Over Persuasion'
While academic essays often aim to persuade with data and statistics, personal essays prioritize the power of storytelling and empathy to create emotional connections with the reader.
4. Focus: 'Glimpses, Not Expositions'
These types of essays focus on specific moments or themes in the writer's life, favoring brevity and emotional impact over exhaustive analysis or comprehensive coverage.
5. Dialogue vs. Declaration: 'Conversations Over Discourses'
They foster an intimate dialogue between writer and reader, blurring the boundaries between author and audience, creating a heartfelt conversational tone rather than a formal declaration.
How to Write a Personal Essay: Breaking Down the Key Steps
Knowing how to write a personal essay is akin to weaving the threads of your life experiences into a narrative tapestry that captivates and resonates. From choosing the perfect topic to refining your unique voice, this section will equip you with the essential skills to master the intimate yet formal dance of personal essay writing.
Choose a Compelling Topic
Selecting the right topic for your personal essay is the foundation upon which your narrative will stand. Instead of opting for the obvious or clichéd, consider personal essay topics that evoke genuine passion or intrigue within you. Often, the most compelling subjects lie in the mundane and everyday experiences, transformed by your unique perspective. Ask yourself: What story can only I tell? This will guide you toward topics that resonate with authenticity and originality.
Establish a Unique Voice
In the realm of personal essays, your voice is your fingerprint—distinct and unmistakable. It's the tone, style, and perspective that sets your writing apart from the rest. Rather than striving for artificial eloquence, embrace the authenticity of your own voice. It's not just about what you say but how you say it. Inject your personality into your prose. Whether it's humor, introspection, or unfiltered honesty, your unique voice is what will forge a lasting connection with your readers.
Structure Your Personal Essay
The outline for personal essay is the framework upon which your narrative unfolds. While these essays are known for their intimacy, they still require a structured form to guide the reader through your story. Begin with a compelling hook—an anecdote, a question, or a provocative statement—to draw readers in. Then, craft a narrative arc that takes them on a journey, building tension and reaching a climax before gently landing on a reflective note. This structure ensures your essay remains engaging and cohesive, seamlessly blending the personal and formal elements. We'll delve into much more detail below.
Craft a Captivating Introduction
When considering how to start a personal essay, think of the introduction as the enticing aroma of a delicious meal. It should pique the reader's curiosity and lure them into the world you're about to unveil. Anecdotes, quotes, or vivid descriptions work wonders here. For instance, consider the opening lines of Joan Didion's essay 'The White Album': 'We tell ourselves stories in order to live.' These words immediately set the tone for a thought-provoking exploration of storytelling. Your introduction should promise a rewarding reading experience and hint at the themes you'll explore, leaving readers eager to delve deeper. Additionally, for more guidance, you can explore tips on how to write a killer thesis statement .
Develop the Narrative
The heart of your personal essay lies in the narrative you weave. So, if unsure how to write a personal narrative essay, remember that this is where personal experiences take center stage, transforming into a compelling story. Use vivid imagery, sensory details, and dialogue to bring your experiences to life. For example, in David Sedaris' essay 'Me Talk Pretty One Day,' he skillfully recounts his humorous struggles with learning French in Paris. His vivid descriptions and witty observations make the reader feel as though they are right there, stumbling through the language with him. Don't just tell your story; show it through engaging storytelling techniques. Make your readers feel the emotions and experiences you're conveying, immersing them in your narrative journey.
Build Tension and Climax
Creating tension and a climactic moment in your personal essay is about drawing readers deeper into your narrative, building anticipation, and then delivering a powerful emotional or intellectual payoff. Consider the essay 'Consider the Lobster' by David Foster Wallace. He starts by discussing a seemingly trivial topic—the Maine Lobster Festival. However, as the essay progresses, he skillfully builds tension by exploring the ethics of boiling lobsters alive, leading to a thought-provoking climax that forces readers to confront their own attitudes toward animal cruelty. To achieve this in your essay, escalate the stakes gradually, adding layers of complexity to your narrative, and then resolve them with a twist, revelation, or moment of realization that leaves a lasting impression.
Reflect and Analyze Personal Experiences
A personal essay is not merely a recounting of events; it's an exploration of their significance. After narrating your experiences, take the time to reflect and analyze what they mean to you and the broader human experience. Ask yourself the 'why' and 'so what' questions.
For instance, in her essay 'On Keeping a Notebook,' Joan Didion recounts her habit of maintaining a notebook of observations and musings. She doesn't just describe the act; she reflects on why she does it and what it reveals about memory and identity. This introspection adds depth to your essay, allowing readers to connect with your experiences on a deeper level. By offering your insights, you invite readers to reflect on their own lives and perspectives, making your essay not just a story but a meaningful exploration of the human condition.
Conclude with Purpose
The conclusion of your personal essay is your opportunity to tie together the threads of your narrative and provide a sense of closure and insight. Rather than merely summarizing your story, use the conclusion to reinforce the themes or lessons you've explored. Consider the essay 'Goodbye to All That' by Joan Didion, where she concludes by reflecting on her changing relationship with New York City and the passage of time. Her conclusion doesn't just wrap up the narrative; it resonates with readers by offering a profound insight into the bittersweet nature of nostalgia and growth.
In your own essay, revisit the central themes or questions you introduced in the introduction and reflect on how your experiences have shaped your perspective. Leave your readers with something to ponder or a takeaway that lingers long after they've finished reading. Whether it's a thought-provoking question, a call to action, or a poignant reflection, concluding with purpose ensures that your personal essay leaves a meaningful mark on your audience.
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How to Write a Personal Essay for College
Your personal essay for college is your opportunity to step out from the sea of applicants and introduce yourself in a unique and compelling way. Here, we will explore some valuable tips to help your college essay shine while also highlighting common mistakes to avoid. And, if you ever need assistance, don't hesitate to send us your ' do my thesis for me ' request, and our persuasive essay writing service will handle it with expertise.
Tips for Making Your College Personal Essay Stand Out:
- Start with a Captivating Hook: Begin your essay with an engaging hook that grabs the reader's attention from the outset. This could be a personal anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a striking statement that sets the stage for your narrative.
- Show, Don't Tell: Instead of simply listing your achievements or qualities, use vivid storytelling to illustrate your character and experiences. Let your readers draw their own conclusions about your strengths and values.
- Be Authentic: Authenticity is key in personal essays. Write from the heart and be genuine in sharing your thoughts and experiences. Admissions officers value authenticity over a rehearsed persona.
- Focus on a Specific Theme: Choose a specific theme or topic that reveals something meaningful about you. Avoid trying to cover too many aspects of your life, as this can dilute the impact of your essay.
- Use Concrete Details: Paint a vivid picture by incorporating concrete details and sensory imagery. This not only makes your narrative more engaging but also helps readers connect with your experiences.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in College Essays:
- Clichés and Generic Statements: Avoid clichéd expressions and generic statements about wanting to 'make a difference' or 'help people.' Instead, provide specific examples and personal insights that demonstrate your commitment.
- Overloading with Achievements: While it's important to highlight your accomplishments, resist the urge to create a laundry list of achievements. The admissions officer wants to understand the person behind the achievements, so focus on the narrative.
- Ignoring the Prompt: Make sure to address the essay prompt directly and effectively. Straying off-topic or failing to answer the question can be detrimental to your essay's impact.
- Over-Editing and Sterilization: While editing is an essential aspect, be cautious not to over-edit your essay to the point where it loses your unique voice and personality. Avoid making it sound overly formal or robotic.
- Being Overly Controversial: While it's essential to be authentic, avoid controversial or polarizing topics that could alienate your readers. Maintain a respectful and constructive formal tone throughout.
Writing a Personal Narrative Essay for High School
High school is a pivotal time in a student's life, marked by personal growth and self-discovery. Personal narrative essays play a crucial role in this journey, allowing students to reflect, explore, and express themselves. In this section, our nursing essay writer will delve into how to write a personal narrative essay for high school and offer some inspiring ideas for essay topics.
Importance of Personal Narrative Essays in High School:
- Self-Reflection: High school is a period of self-discovery, and personal narrative essays provide a platform for students to reflect on their experiences, values, and beliefs as the student writes. It encourages introspection and helps students gain a deeper understanding of themselves.
- Developing Writing Skills: Writing personal narrative essays enhances students' writing skills. It encourages them to focus on storytelling, structure, and language, all of which are essential for effective communication.
- Building Empathy: Sharing personal stories allows students to connect with their peers on a deeper level. It fosters empathy and understanding as students learn about each other's experiences and perspectives.
- Boosting Confidence: Successfully crafting a personal narrative essay can boost a student's confidence in their writing abilities. It's a tangible accomplishment that showcases their storytelling prowess.
- College and Career Preparation: Strong writing skills are invaluable in college and the professional world. Personal narrative essays help students develop these skills, preparing them for future academic and career challenges.
Ideas for a Personal Essay Topics for High School Students:
- A Defining Moment: Write about a moment in your life that significantly influenced your beliefs or perspective. You can draw inspiration from a philosophical paper example as well.
- An Unforgettable Trip: Share the story of a memorable journey, whether it's a family vacation, a school field trip, or a solo adventure.
- A Personal Challenge: Reflect on a time when you faced adversity and how it shaped your character.
- Friendship: Explore the dynamics of a meaningful friendship, delving into the highs and lows of your relationship.
- A Lesson Learned: Write about a mistake you made and the valuable lesson you gained from it.
- A Family Tradition: Discuss a cherished family tradition and its significance in your life.
- Overcoming Fear: Describe an experience where you conquered a fear or phobia, showcasing your resilience.
- An Unexpected Encounter: Share a story about a chance meeting or encounter that had a lasting impact on you.
- A Milestone Achievement: Reflect on a significant accomplishment in your life and the journey that led to it.
- A Cultural Experience: Explore an experience that introduced you to a new culture or perspective, emphasizing what you learned from it.
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Striking the Balance Between Intimacy and Formality
In this section, our personal essay writer will explore the potential pitfalls, the importance of professionalism, strategies for achieving balance, and the key to striking the right tone in your essay.
The Risk of Oversharing
Personal essays invite readers into your inner world, but there is a risk of oversharing, divulging too much personal information, or making readers uncomfortable. It's crucial to remember that while such essays can be intimate, they should still respect boundaries and maintain a sense of decorum. Avoid sharing details that are overly personal or irrelevant to the essay's central theme.
Maintaining Professionalism
Even as you reveal personal experiences and emotions, professionalism remains essential in this kind of essay, especially in academic or professional contexts. This means adhering to grammar and style conventions, avoiding slang or overly casual language, and presenting your ideas with clarity and coherence. Remember, your goal is to connect with your readers while maintaining a level of respect and decorum.
Strategies for Balancing Personal and Formal Elements:
Balancing intimacy and formality is an art. Here are some strategies to help you achieve this balance:
- Set Clear Boundaries: Before you start writing, determine the boundaries of what you're willing to share. Be mindful of what is relevant to your essay's theme and what might be considered oversharing.
- Use the Right Tone: Adjust your tone to suit the purpose and audience of your essay. If it's for a college application, maintain a respectful and professional tone. If it's a personal blog post, you may have more freedom to be casual.
- Incorporate Reflection: Pair personal anecdotes with reflective analysis. Explain why the experiences you're sharing are relevant and what they reveal about you or the broader theme.
- Seek Feedback: Share your essay with others, such as peers, teachers, or mentors, to gauge whether it strikes the right balance between intimacy and formality.
How to Write a Good Personal Essay with the Right Tone:
Achieving the right tone is crucial for success. Consider the following tips:
- Know Your Audience: Understand who will be reading your essay and adjust your tone accordingly. Tailor your approach to resonate with your specific audience.
- Start with a Strong Hook: Begin your essay with an engaging introduction that sets the tone for the rest of the piece.
- Stay True to Yourself: While maintaining professionalism, don't lose your unique voice and perspective. Be genuine and authentic in your writing.
- Edit and Revise: After writing, revise your essay for tone. Ensure that your language and style align with your desired tone and message.
- Read Widely: Read personal narrative essay examples by renowned authors to gain insight into how tone is effectively employed in this genre.
In this comprehensive article, we've embarked on a journey through the world of personal essays. We've explored their definition and characteristics, dissected the key steps for crafting a standout essay, and delved into their importance in both high school and college. From tips for making your college essay shine to strategies for striking the balance between intimacy and formality, we've covered it all. If you ever require guidance or find yourself uncertain, don't hesitate to reach out; we're here to assist with your ' write my papers ' requests!
9 Essential Features of the Personal Essay Format
Kate Sliunkova
AdmitYogi, Stanford MBA & MA in Education
1. Writing Quality
Because personal essays hold a mirror up to the author and are also compositions, they allow for and demand some elements of originality and creativity.
The key is to craft an essay that is uniquely yours, impactful, succinct, and authentic. You’ll want to make every word count, strive to “show not tell,” and excel at improving word choice during the revision process to give full expression to your experiences and insights.
You, and someone not you (with good written communication skills), should review for final editing and to ensure the essay is carefully proofread.
2. Personal Point of View and Voice
Unlike expository essays or news writing, personal essays are subjective, and use first-person speech and perspective. Everything in the essay projects your unique personality, emotions, imunication style, making your college essay both “personal” and distinctive.
3. Authenticity and Vulnerability
Personal essays often explore sensitive or vulnerable topics, allowing readers to connect with YOU, the speaker. At the same time you’ll want to leave out overly personal or private details that don’t really fit the purpose or goal of the essay! Your essay is personal but it’s also shared publicly. You present an authentic self, without coming across boastful or artificial, and without being overly familiar…
PRO TIP: Respect your boundaries when it comes to what you feel okay sharing or not sharing. > Get input from an outside reader who knows you well for more input on what you’re sharing about > yourself and your life experiences before you press “submit.”
4. An Individual Value System
A great GPA and great letters of recommendation carry weight, but your personal essay is a way to present consequential character traits admissions officers are unlikely to find elsewhere in your application packet. A strong essay will communicate your values AND anchor them in lived experiences and reflections — making these personal beliefs more vivid, memorable, and also persuasive. Finally, look for opportunities to share how your values inform your passion for learning, your vocational interests, and your potential to contribute positively to campus life.
Personal essays aren’t just lists of experiences or lists of personality traits…Personal essays are a great format for highlighting your own level of self awareness. In an essay this often involves showing pivotal experiences or influences in your life and how you actively learn from them. Don’t feel valuable experiences need to be exceptional or fit any mold, we all learn from big and small experiences in our lives, and both successes and challenges can offer equally valuable insights!
6. Storytelling
Some personal essays are structured as narratives or “stories.” In fact, sometimes personal essay and personal narrative are terms used to describe the same essay format. We’ll talk more about narrative elements under “structure” below.
7. Emotional Connection
Successful personal essays evoke emotions in the reader. They use concrete details, imagery, or emphatic language to help the reader connect on a more personal and intimate level with the writer’s individual circumstances, experiences, joys, hardships, or challenges…
8. Universality
Although subjective, the personal essay is a format that lets the writer share personal insights and reflections that touch on more universal themes about life. These larger themes make the piece more memorable for the reader and allow the reader to compare their own insights and experiences with those of the writer.
Personal essays, and admissions essays in particular, are usually concise and to the point. Although you’ll likely want to add color and realism with some descriptive details, dialogue, or other vivid elements, you’ll typically want to maintain a strong focus on your formative experiences and most meaningful reflections.
Since the College Admissions essay is part of the Personal Essay family, the principles we’ve just listed go a long way in helping you understand how to format a winning college essay!
PRO TIP: When you’re ready for some additional feedback on your essay try checking with an academic advisor at your school. It is also very helpful to seek feedback from someone who knows you well - a parent, sibling, or friend would do great, even better if they have recently gone through the admissions process themselves.
Get ahead of the pack by using more sophisticated AI tools designed specifically for evaluating college application essays, such as Admit Yogi AI Essay Reviewer . Our essay reviewer is designed specifically for college admissions essays with input from experienced admissions consultants and former admissions officers, offers prompts in an intuitive format, and is keyed to read for high-impact essay components such as writing quality, personal voice, authenticity, values, and insights…
Now that you’ve got some quick insights into the essential features of a powerful personal essay, let’s go on to talk about the kinds of content, themes, and structures that work best in a college essay format.
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A personal essay is an essay about your life, thoughts, or experiences. This type of essay will give readers a glimpse into your most intimate life experiences and life lessons. There are many reasons you may need to write a personal essay, from a simple class assignment to a college application requirement.You can use the list below for inspiration. Consider each statement a starting point ...
Some other good personal essay topics. If you are still out of ideas for personal essay topics, you can consider the themes listed below: The last act of kindness that you have made. The job of your dream. The most beautiful place in the world you have ever seen. The best music band that helps you to fall asleep.
The best personal statements typically read like a story: they have a common theme, as well as a beginning, middle, and end. This type of format also helps keep your thoughts organized and improves the flow of your essay. Common themes to consider for your personal statement include: Special role models from your past
Generally, a personal essay will have no less than three body paragraphs that detail your experience in chronological order. Each section should discuss one part of the story, including the events leading up to it, what happened during the experience, and what you learned from it. Body paragraphs may also include examples of feelings, emotions ...
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.
Personal essay topics usually include real stories, experiences, and opinions of people. Writers need to give an account of their own experience and express their thoughts on the subject of a paper. The key to success is to make an attempt to combine narration and opinion together. In this article, you will find a short writing guide and 100 ...
Family Essay Topics. Essay about My Parents. Essay about My Mother (200 words) Essay about My Home. My Dad Is My Hero: Essay. Essay on Importance of Family Traditions. I Want a Dog: My Opinion Essay. I Am Miami Essay. Essay on Growing Up without a Father.
Personal Statement Examples. Essay 1: Summer Program. Essay 2: Being Bangladeshi-American. Essay 3: Why Medicine. Essay 4: Love of Writing. Essay 5: Starting a Fire. Essay 6: Dedicating a Track. Essay 7: Body Image and Eating Disorders. Essay 8: Becoming a Coach.
Choosing Your College Essay Topic | Ideas & Examples. Published on October 25, 2021 by Kirsten Courault. Revised on July 3, 2023. A strong essay topic sets you up to write a unique, memorable college application essay. Your topic should be personal, original, and specific. Take time to brainstorm the right topic for you.
A personal statement is a short essay of around 500-1,000 words, in which you tell a compelling story about who you are, what drives you, and why you're applying. ... but about reflecting, evaluating, and relating it to broader themes. Do make your statements into stories: Instead of saying you're hard-working and self-motivated, write ...
This article includes 670 good personal essay topics, ideas, examples, and themes that students can use for writing their papers. We accept Quick and secure ... the second type of individual essay theme focuses on a critical moment in a person's life. In turn, one should follow specific schemes to write personal papers by considering two ...
Many of the best personal essays deliver a theme or message. In other words, what is the point of the story? In a personal essay about dating, the message may be that "friends shouldn't set up friends with other friends," because it can make future social situations awkward if dates don't work out. Or a personal essay on parenting may deliver ...
Help your reader get to know you better with these personal essay prompts. Write about your experiences, your relationships, your dreams, and yourself.
Include vivid sensory descriptions in your essay to help the reader connect with your unique perspective. Describing touch, smell, taste, sight, and sound can help the reader invest in your story and feel like they're there with you. 3. Develop the characters so they are well-rounded and detailed.
Font: Unless required to write in a Harvard essay format, you can use any readable fonts - Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri in size 12.; Margins: Just like in most writings, set your margins to one inch on all sides.; Spacing: This is a classic!Use double-spacing throughout the essay, including between paragraphs. Indentation: Indent the first line of each paragraph by 0.5 inches or use the ...
242 Personal Persuasive Essay Topics and Ideas. Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class. Personal essays are some of the most diverse assignments you can receive.
50 Inspiring Topics for Personal Essay. Apart from options we mentioned above, there is another alternative. When you are fruitlessly looking for possible topics and cannot find anything, it is time for using the Internet. ... There are many lists with suggestions people could choose from — they offer free themes and encourage students to ...
Education Essay TopicsEducation Essay Topics. Certain themes always seem to come up while writing an essay on education. Some people find the constant discussion about education and schools to be a bit much, and when you're engaged in a topic, it may be challenging to come up with the ideal essay topic. ... Personal essay topics explore your ...
Here's a list of essay topics and ideas that worked for my one-on-one students: Essay Topic: My Allergies Inspired Me. After nearly dying from anaphylactic shock at five years old, I began a journey healing my anxiety and understanding the PTSD around my allergies. This created a passion for medicine and immunology, and now I want to become ...
Explore. Featured Essays Essays on the Radio; Special Features; 1950s Essays Essays From the 1950s Series; Browse by Theme Browse Essays By Theme Use this feature to browse through the tens of thousands of essays that have been submitted to This I Believe. Select a theme to see a listing of essays that address the selected theme. The number to the right of each theme indicates how many essays ...
The outline for personal essay is the framework upon which your narrative unfolds. While these essays are known for their intimacy, they still require a structured form to guide the reader through your story. Begin with a compelling hook—an anecdote, a question, or a provocative statement—to draw readers in.
8. Universality. Although subjective, the personal essay is a format that lets the writer share personal insights and reflections that touch on more universal themes about life. These larger themes make the piece more memorable for the reader and allow the reader to compare their own insights and experiences with those of the writer. 9. Brevity.
Personal Statement Example #1 The Tally on My Uniform. Day 19: I am using my school uniform as a slate to tally the days. As the ink slowly seeps through the fabric of my shirt, I begin to understand that being a conscious Arab comes with a cost. Flashback.