I know what you’re doing. You’re wasting precious brainpower trying to anticipate what they want. What story would matter to them? Stop right there. You’re going about this all wrong! Start with what matters to you. Some of my favorite essays have taken me down rabbit holes on a huge variety of topics — Lord of the Rings, bassoon, longboarding, shark fishing, anime, Coldplay — and I always emerge a more informed reader. These essays do more than educate me on the topic; they illuminate my understanding of the writer and reveal identity. Your story matters. Your topic should, too.

You’re scouring your brain for that one-in-a-million topic college admissions has never seen before. You’re searching for a moment to write about that has never been experienced by another living being. And now, you’re paralyzed by fear, indecision, and writer’s block. Relax! Your topic can often be found in your feelings, and letting emotions be your guide as you brainstorm might lead to a story that will hit your reader right in the feels.