What We Get Wrong About Admissions Essays (Part 1/3)

When I begin working with students on high school or college admissions essays, I often first hear a range of essay topic ideas from parents.

I get it! You know your kid best, and you want them to paint themselves in a great light.

Often, however, the ideas include squeezing in too many layers of narrative, from a student's volunteer experience to their sports successes and more.

With all due respect, this approach is misguided.

In this three-part series, I'll share the TOP THREE things we get wrong about both high school and college admissions essays—and what students should do instead.

But first! Early registration is open for my College Essay Workshop on March 16, 2026—and spots are already filling.

Click here to grab a spot for your high school student!

Mistake #1: Trying to cover way too much.

Most admissions essays prompts are demanding narrative, not a showcase for students' personalities and successes.

Take this high school admissions prompt:

Please share some everyday experiences in your neighborhood, and why you cherish them.

Or, this college admissions prompt:

When was a time you experienced a challenge, setback, or failure—and what did you learn from the experience?

Each prompt invites students to tell a story or, in the case of the neighborhood prompt, perhaps a series of stories or moments.

Each prompt also invites students to reflect: Why does an 8th grade student cherish their neighborhood? What did this high school student learn from a more challenging moment?

The place to boast about student achievements lies elsewhere on any school application—so no need to highlight accolades in admissions essays (unless the prompt asks for accolades)!

Rather, narrative writing reveals a student's character, capacity for self-reflection and awareness, or their resilience in a way no other part of the application can provide.

So, students shouldn't focus on squeezing in all the information about faith or kindness, community action, accolades, and also covering what a varied and interesting life they lead.

Instead, answer the prompt with authenticity, loads of details, and meaningful reflection.

I'll show high school students how to do all of this and more in my upcoming College Essay Workshop on March 16, 2026. Sign up below while spaces remain!