To Covid or Not to Covid: That is the Personal Essay Debate

Ahhhh the personal essay. There is so much focus on this part of the college application because it is the first time you can “speak” to the admissions officer. In 650 words, you have the opportunity to reveal something unique about yourself that cannot be found anywhere else on the application. You have an opportunity to show them how you can fit onto their campus and make a difference. And, do so in a way that is powerful, engaging, and thought provoking. As someone who has read oodles of college applications, I am always excited to read an essay that has a unique POV, is positive, fun and even funny. In a sea of essays, it is refreshing to read one that hooks me in the beginning and takes me on a ride.

Looking ahead to next application season, colleges anticipate many students writing their personal essays about Covid-19 as it could tick off many boxes of a successful essay: identification of a challenge or life altering experience, details of an “aha” moment, actions taken to overcome the challenge and show growth and then a reflection of the challenge. But should you write about Covid? Will you and your essay stand out from the crowd if every other senior, around the globe, is also experiencing Covid-19?

We recommend that you push yourself to find a personal essay topic that is not Covid-19 related. While Covid-19 is a significant moment in your lifetime, there are so many other aspects that make you unique. Maybe you are on the pursuit of creating the best chicken wing? Or maybe you lose all track of time when you are coding beautiful solutions to complex problems? Take the time now to brainstorm and outline several topics (at least 3) before delving into one. Share your ideas with family and your counselor to gain feedback. For inspiration on some stellar personal essay topics, see this recurring NYT article.

Still feel compelled to write about the impact Covid-19 has had on you? Then we encourage you to share your thoughts in a newly created section in the Common App for Covid-19. It’s considered an optional, additional section for you to write (250 words) about Covid or any natural disaster you have survived. By placing your Covid story here, you can then use your personal essay space to truly show off what makes you unique.

Reach out to Launching Brand U to get started on this essay journey.