You may have seen in the Stanford shorts a question about what event you would like to have witnessed. This is effectively the same thing in a longer format. You might use this prompt to choose an event that is relevant to your intended major in college. For aspiring engineers, perhaps you’d like to see how the Empire State Building went up, or travel even farther back to Great Pyramid of Giza, which originally stood at 481 feet and remained the tallest man-made structure for over 3,800 years. Showcase your imaginative prowess, unique perspective, and personal values—all critical elements for grabbing the admissions committee’s attention.

Or, instead of a specific event, you might choose an era like the Renaissance to align yourself with a period of unprecedented artistic and scientific breakthrough. You could elaborate on your passion for art by referencing Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel or explore your scientific fascinations by discussing Leonardo da Vinci’s intricate inventions. Either way, you’d be talking about the zeitgeist of that period, which would then allow you to talk about the inspiring atmosphere or environment fostered at your school of choice.

Similarly, opting for the Industrial Revolution can highlight your interest in technological advancements and social change. You’re not just reminiscing about steam engines; you’re reflecting on how innovation can both solve problems and create new ones. Perhaps, draw parallels between then and now, indicating your ability to understand complex societal shifts. Did you know that during the 1800s, Britain’s population increased by 260%, primarily due to industrial growth?

Choosing a time period to live in is more than nostalgia; it’s a reflection of who you are and what you value.

As the saying goes, “You are the company you keep.” Use this essay prompt to showcase your literary tastes, creative thinking, and personal traits. Imagine the reader’s delight when they see a compelling correlation between you and Frodo Baggins in terms of of your own quest for self-discovery, or perhaps Katniss Everdeen for your unyielding spirit in the face of adversity? So, how should you tackle this prompt?

• Select a Character: Choose a character that resonates with you on multiple levels. Tip: Avoid overly common choices, unless you have a unique perspective or experience to share.
• Draw Parallels: Illustrate specific traits and experiences that align with the character. Use anecdotes from your life to add authenticity. For example, “Just like Elizabeth Bennet, I navigate social expectations with a spirit of independence and integrity.”
• Create a Compelling Narrative: Weave your story around pivotal moments in the character’s arc that mirror your own journey. This adds a layer of relatability and drama to your essay.

Overall, the beauty of this prompt lies in its ability to not just reveal who you are, but also how you think and relate to the world around you. For instance, one past client of mine excelled by illustrating their ambition and resilience through parallels with Hermione Granger’s relentless pursuit of knowledge. It’s not just a creative college essay topic, but a novel (see what I did there?) approach that can turn your essay from a mere application requisite into a masterwork.

Imagine sitting in a grand hall, the air vibrating with the unmatchable resonance of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. Suddenly, as the chorus erupts with “Ode to Joy,” a realization dawns upon you—your perception of joy, connection, and human spirit is forever altered. Engaging with a significant piece of art, music, or literature like this can be transformative, providing a depth of insight that molds one’s intellectual and emotional framework. Discussing such moments in your college essay offers a rich tapestry of your cultural awareness and the profound impact of creative works on your life.

Here are some remarkable instances to inspire you:

• The First Encounter with Van Gogh’s “Starry Night”: This painting doesn’t just depict the night but transforms it into a dreamscape, urging viewers to think differently about reality and imagination.
• Reading “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee: This novel forces readers to confront the stark realities of prejudice and moral courage, often prompting them to reflect on their own beliefs and actions. As author John Green stated,
  

  “Sometimes, you read a book so special that you want to carry it around with you for months after you’ve finished just to stay near it.”

• Listening to Bob Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind”: The song’s simple melody and poignant lyrics challenges listeners to question and reflect upon societal norms and their roles within them.
• Watching Charlie Chaplin’s “The Great Dictator”: This film masterfully blends humor with political commentary, leaving a lasting impression about the power of art in resistance and the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs.

Engaging with such works doesn’t just provide entertainment—they become milestones in personal development. These transformations offer compelling content for your college essays because they highlight your ability to be influenced and inspired, which in turn reflects your openness to new perspectives.

Remember, when writing about these experiences, be specific, not just about your response to the piece, but about how you acted on that emotional or spiritual transformation . Answer this question effectively and you will create an unforgettable portrait of your intellectual, emotional, and aesthetic journey.

Picture this: the fate of one global issue lies in your capable hands. What do you choose, and more importantly, how do you solve it? This unusual prompt empowers you to think globally and demonstrate your sense of social responsibility, passion for change, and innovative thinking.

Let’s dive into some intriguing approaches:

• Climate Change: The influential youngster, Greta Thunberg, once said,
  

  “I have learned you are never too small to make a difference.”

  Addressing climate change could involve proposing viable renewable energy solutions, promoting sustainability, or even detailing a global reforestation initiative. According to recent studies, averting climate disaster could save up to 150 million lives in the next 50 years.

• Global Education Inequality: Imagine revolutionizing the educational landscape by advocating for accessible digital learning platforms, irrespective of geographical or financial constraints. UNESCO reports that over 258 million children are unschooled globally.
• Global Health Crisis: In the wake of the Covid pandemic, imagining a world where universal healthcare is a reality could be compelling. Tackling issues such as vaccine distribution, healthcare infrastructure in developing countries, or even pioneering medical research could be your focus. WHO notes that every $1 invested in immunization saves $16 in healthcare costs.
• Water Scarcity: Access to potable water is a problem afflicting billions, especially in arid regions. Innovative ideas like desalination technology advancements or sustainable water management could stand out.

Adding a dash of humor, you might start with a line like, “They say absolute power corrupts absolutely, but in my case, it will only lead to absolute solutions.” Your unique perspective, backed by relevant facts and innovative solutions, will surely resonate with admissions officers, making you an unforgettable candidate.

A blend of reflection and speculation, this essay topic serves as a personal time capsule, a way to capture your dreams, goals, and values at this very moment. According to a study by Dr. Gail Matthews at Dominican University, people write down their goals are 42% more likely to achieve them. This assignment could just be the motivational boost you need to map out an extraordinary future.

Imagine peeking into 2043. What do you hope to see? This prompt allows you to express sincerity and introspection, showcasing your ability to plan and envision the person you aim to become. As you draft, consider including these elements to make your letter truly memorable:

• Personal Aspirations: Describe your ideal career situation, family life, or even those walking tours through Paris you’ve always dreamt of.
• Values and Ethics: Highlight the core principles guiding your decisions. How have these evolved over time?
• Life Insights: Utilize your past experiences to illuminate future pathways. What lessons have you learned that will shape the decisions you make?
• Humor and Wit: Add subtle humor to engage the reader. For example, a light-hearted jab about the improbability of flying cars or the hope that your future self has finally mastered cooking without lighting the stove on fire.

As speculative as this exercise might be, it is rooted in realism. By putting yourself 20 years into the future, you provide a perspective that’s more grounded in hopes but framed by the practicalities of life.

Choosing a historical figure to embody isn’t just a test of your historical knowledge; it’s a unique college essay idea that allows you to reveal the essence of your personality, values, and aspirations through the legacy of someone renowned. Imagine channeling the courage of Harriet Tubman, the innovative spirit of Thomas Edison, or the unyielding sagacity of Mahatma Gandhi.

You might find yourself reflecting on what draws you to a particular figure. Do you admire Helen Keller for overcoming insurmountable obstacles? Do you see a reflection of your creativity in Leonardo da Vinci, who once said, “Learning never exhausts the mind.” Your choice can highlight how your personal and academic goals align with impactful historical movements or innovations. For instance:

• Choosing someone like Rosa Parks could underline your commitment to social justice and equality.
• Albert Einstein might illustrate your passion for science and the pursuit of knowledge.
• Emulating Jane Austen could reveal your affinity for storytelling and societal commentary.

This topic allows you to illustrate your character through the prism of someone who has left a lasting mark on history. As you weave their stories with your ambitions, you create a compelling narrative that admissions officers are sure to remember. Consider Steve Jobs’ famous assertion, “The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do.” Is this you?

It’s a thought-provoking college essay topic that signals your readiness to contribute to the world with the same fervor as your chosen historical icon.

In a world evolving faster than you can say “AI,” the opportunity to dream up an invention for the future is electrifying. This prompt demands creativity and foresight that bridges the gap between today’s realities and tomorrow’s possibilities. So, what sci-fi-worthy invention are you imagining? A teleportation device? Perhaps a universal language translator? Or maybe you’re rooted in practicality, dreaming of a fully renewable energy grid. Whatever your choice, it’s your ingenuity, your ability to dream big, and your grasp of current technological trends that will make your essay stand out.

According to the World Economic Forum, we are on the brink of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, driven by advances in AI, robotics, and nanotechnology. Imagine leveraging these advancements to create something extraordinary. A healthcare robot that can diagnose illnesses with 99.9% accuracy, perhaps?

“The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” — Alan Kay

The International Federation of Robotics reported that the number of installed industrial robots had increased to approximately 3 million units in 2020, with an expected growth rate of 14% per year. These facts don’t just serve as a backdrop; they are the launching pads for your proposed invention. Consider these examples:

• A device that reverses environmental damage. With climate change being one of the most pressing issues of our time, a device that can clean oceans or convert CO2 into breathable air could potentially save our planet.
• Virtual reality classrooms. As remote learning becomes the norm, imagine a virtual reality classroom where students can interact as if they were physically present, breaking down geographical barriers to education.
• Universal Health Detectors. Inspired by today’s wearable tech, such a device could continuously monitor health metrics and alert individuals to potential health issues before they become serious.

Feel free to get quirky; sometimes the most unexpected ideas are the most innovative. And don’t forget to ground your invention in realistic scientific principles—it will show that you are both a dreamer and a pragmatist, a combination that colleges find irresistible.

Discussing a treasured possession in your college essay can unlock a wealth of personal stories, values, and deep emotional connections that you might not share in everyday conversation. It’s like opening a window into your soul for the admissions team, giving them a glimpse of who you really are beyond the grades and test scores. Here’s why this topic can be particularly impactful:

• Personal Stories: Perhaps it’s a worn-out book gifted by your grandmother, symbolizing the timeless bond you share. Or maybe it’s a simple, handmade bracelet from a childhood friend that recalls to mind the carefree summers you spent together.
• Values and Traditions: The object can reflect your cultural heritage or family traditions. Imagine describing a piece of jewelry passed down through generations—a tangible connection to your ancestry and the values your ancestors have instilled in you.
• Emotional Connections: You could talk about how a battered old guitar is your stable companion throughout the vicissitudes of life, or how a simple keychain reminds you of a pivotal moment of independence, like moving away for college.
• Showcasing Personality: It’s also a sneak peek into your quirks and interests. Do you cherish an obscure vinyl record collection that speaks to your eclectic taste and also your appreciation for history and artistry?

“Objects are not merely things; they are repositories of our meanings and experiences.” — Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

Consider incorporating subtle humor to keep the readers engaged. For instance, you might describe a treasured childhood toy like, “My beloved teddy bear, Bosco, has seen better days—he’s missing an eye and his paw is deflated having lost all its stuffing, but to me, he’s still the best after-hours raconteur of my childhood.”

Writing about your most treasured possession may help you to showcase your values and demonstrate what truly matters to you.

Try on this age-old interview question and you’ll see how the prospect of having dinner with three iconic figures, dead or alive, is enough to give you a burst of creative energy. It’s a window into your admiration and aspirations, the values you hold dear, and the conversations you find significant. To craft a compelling essay around this prompt, consider blending personality, historical knowledge, and humor.

Start by introducing your chosen guests:

• Albert Einstein: Not just for his contribution to science but for his philosophical insights. Imagine discussing the theory of relativity over dinner! “The important thing is to not stop questioning,” I would tell Albert. “Curiosity has its own reason for existing.”
• Oprah Winfrey: An embodiment of resilience and empowerment, Oprah’s life story is rife with adversity overcome and the selfless championing of social causes. Her presence at your fictional dinner table suggests you appreciate stories of triumph and the power of media. “Turn your wounds into wisdom,” I hear her say, as I shove a bite of steak in my mouth.
• Amelia Earhart: A pioneering aviator whose disappearance still sparks curiosity, including Amelia introduces a spirit of adventure and ambition. “The most effective way to do it, is to do it,” she says.

As you dive into your chosen guests, elaborate on why their presence matters to you personally. This type of introspection showcases your social intelligence and reveals the dynamics of what sparks your interest. Then bring us into the scene to show what this eclectic dinner conversation might entail. By painting a vivid picture of this imaginative dinner scenario, you not only entertain but also grant your reader a deep understanding of your passions and personality.

This prompt encourages risk-taking and innovation. By sharing out-of-the-box ideas and your journey to pursue them, it reveals your creative thinking, determination, and problem-solving approach.

When crafting your essay, consider including:

• The spark: What triggered your unconventional idea?
• The journey: Describe the process you took, complete with challenges and triumphs.
• The outcome: Was your idea successful? What did you learn?

For instance, you can detail how a science fair project turned into a community initiative. You might write:

“It all started with a simple question: What if we could power our school entirely with renewable energy? Armed with nothing more than curiosity and a few solar panels, I embarked on a year-long project that not only reduced our school’s carbon footprint by 30%, but also inspired neighboring schools to go green.”

Using personal anecdotes and hard data can add weight to your narrative. Humor also has its place, like recounting the time your DIY robot almost trashed your kitchen. Admissions officers love seeing authenticity and a dash of personality.

Ultimately, choosing a unique and compelling essay topic is a strategic way to capture the attention of college admissions officers. The unusual prompts not only allow you to stand out but also offer a platform to express your individuality and insights. Approach these unconventional questions with creativity and thoughtfulness, and you’ll be well on your way to crafting an essay that truly stands out.

For addition tips and tricks, take a look at our other posts on Mastering the UC System’s PIQs, What you can learn from AI LLMs, and Expert Tips and Tricks.