Many students, especially when tackling supplemental essays, feel pressured to align every piece of writing with their intended major or the overall "theme" of their application. We've seen potential STEM majors reluctant to write about their passion for literature, and aspiring Politics majors straining to inject political themes into every essay prompt. This self-imposed restriction can result in essays that feel one-dimensional and fail to showcase the full spectrum of your personality and interests.

Here's why this approach is problematic:

• It limits your ability to share diverse aspects of yourself
• It can lead to repetitive, predictable essays
• It might cause you to overlook compelling stories that truly define you
• It can make your application feel less genuine and more manufactured

Remember, colleges are looking for well-rounded individuals who will contribute to their campus community in various ways. Your love for physics doesn't negate your talent for creative writing, and your passion for political science doesn't mean you can't also be deeply moved by art or music.

Instead of trying to force every essay into a preconceived mold, we encourage you to:

• Embrace the stories that genuinely resonate with you, even if they seem "off-brand"
• Show different facets of your personality across your essays
• Trust that your authentic interests and experiences will naturally create a cohesive picture of who you are

For example, a future engineer writing about how a poetry class changed their perspective on communication can be just as impactful as an essay about a robotics competition. An aspiring journalist sharing a meaningful experience from their part-time job at a local bakery can be as compelling as an essay about their school newspaper work.

By allowing yourself the freedom to explore various aspects of your life and interests in your essays, you're more likely to create a rich, multidimensional portrait that will captivate admissions officers. Remember, you're not just a future major or career path – you're a complex individual with diverse experiences and passions. Let that complexity shine through in your essays.

Don't let the fear of "staying on brand" hold you back. Embrace the full range of your experiences and interests. That's the key to crafting essays that are not only authentic but also truly memorable.

Get Expert Help with Your College Essays and Resume



If you're feeling overwhelmed by the college essay writing process or want to ensure that your essays and resume stand out, College MatchPoint is here to help. Our experienced essay coaches and resume experts work one-on-one with students to help them craft compelling, authentic narratives that showcase their unique strengths and experiences.

Our essay and resume program offers personalized guidance and support throughout the entire process, from brainstorming to final edits. We understand that every student's journey is different, and we tailor our approach to meet your individual needs and goals.

If you're interested in learning more about how College MatchPoint can help your student create essays and a resume that truly shine, we invite you schedule a complimentary consultation and tell us about your student.