Let’s start with some examples of personal essay prompts:


So I looked for comfort in creation. I began spending more time in our garage, carefully constructing planes from sheets of foam. I found purpose balancing the fuselage or leveling the ailerons to precisely 90 degrees. I loved cutting new parts and assembling them perfectly. Here, I could fix all the mistakes.
Adapting to the academic rigor of high school was challenging. The workload was heavier, and the expectations were higher than I was accustomed to. I learned the hard way that procrastination was my enemy. Balancing homework, extracurricular activities, and personal time became a juggling act. It was during these times that I discovered the importance of time management and setting priorities. I also learned to ask for help when I needed it, whether it was from teachers or classmates, which was a humbling and educational experience in itself. A personal essay is a way to tell your story - your thoughts, your experiences, and your emotions - while also offering the reader a glimpse into your world. Here, you can reflect on how these moments shaped you. What did you learn from them? This form of writing allows you to connect deeply with readers and invite them into your personal journey. In this article, we'll explore examples and show you how to craft a piece that's both meaningful and engaging. Although universities consider other elements such as and , an outstanding personal essay for college can help you stand out from other applicants. If you have a similar GPA and test scores to those of other applicants, an essay can allow you to differentiate yourself. Brandt's essay illustrates how to take a single, small incident and turn it into an essay that explains how she learned something about herself. It is a coming-of-age essay. When thinking about your own essay topic, try to think about moments in your life that were important turning points. The event can be something small and doesn't have to be dramatic. What is important is the significance of that event in your life. See the chart below for some ideas. If, after reading this article, you still feel unsure about how to write a personal essay, EssayHub is the perfect to turn to. Our team of experts can help you bring your story to life—whether you're looking for feedback, guidance, or a complete rewrite! Stressed over the untrustworthiness of your memory? Statements don’t need to be definite; they simply must be actually how you recall them. In contrast to an announced piece, the article is about your own insight — your impression of occasions.

1. Imagine how the person reading your essay will feel.

Many require a as part of the application process. These personal statements allow students to describe their academic achievements, their strengths, and other personal aspects that can help admissions officers see them as unique individuals.

Here’s an example of how to use that personal essay template:

The worst time came when my parents tried to fix their relationship. Repeated date nights induced more arguments. Enduring the stress of her restaurant, my father, and her mistakes, my mom attempted to end her life. Fortunately, I found her just in time.

You can do this while writing your personal essay.

The summer before high school, I oscillated between dreaming about the independence it would bring and fearing the challenges of new academic pressures and social dynamics. The thought of navigating a larger school with students from different backgrounds and the pressure to perform well academically loomed large. Yet, there was this underlying current of excitement about joining clubs, exploring new subjects, and the chance to redefine myself.

How to write a hook in an essay: top tips from pro writers

However, the restaurant tore apart my parent’s relationship. Two years after opening, my dad started coming home late most nights, plastered from “happy hour with work colleagues.” My mom, trying to balance her day job at Kaiser and owning a restaurant, poured her stress on me,“What the hell is wrong with you! Always watching YouTube and never talking!”

How to Write an Exemplification Essay

My stutter, once a source of shame, became my greatest teacher. It taught me the power of perseverance, the art of listening, and the value of voice. I’ve learned that our imperfections are not limitations but invitations to find unique paths to self-expression. In finding my voice, I discovered that the most profound conversations often start in silence. And it is in embracing our vulnerabilities that we find our true strength.

For analysis of what makes this essay , go here.

The journey from silence to expression taught me the value of listening. I learned to listen not only to the words of others but to the unspoken messages in their pauses, their breaths, and their eyes. This deepened empathy and understanding fueled my desire to advocate for those who, like me, struggled to be heard. My personal battle had evolved into a broader mission.