Bringing Personal Growth Through Unlikely Essay Topics: The Case of Hairties
When students consider potential essay topics for college applications, they often reach for the obvious. However, diving into less traditional subjects, such as something as simple as a hairtie, can offer a unique opportunity to showcase your personal growth and creativity. This article explores the viability of writing about hairties for college essays and the value of such an unlikely topic.
Understanding the Context: University Essays vs. Other Applications
The context in which you are applying to university is crucial in determining the appropriateness of your essay topic. For instance, if your application is aimed at a British university, the typical expectation is that you focus on your intended field of study. In contrast, American universities often provide applicants an opportunity to answer a set of open-ended questions to gain insights into their personality, aspirations, and personal growth.
The Pros and Cons of Using a Hairtie as an Essay Topic
Writing an essay about your hairtie can be both a high-risk and high-reward proposition. On one hand, the unique nature of such a topic can set your application apart from the others. On the other hand, if the essay is not well-written or does not add substantial value to your application, it could backfire. Here are some key considerations:
High-Risk, High-Reward Approach
The best essays often weave a personal story with a universal message, making the applicant stand out. If you can craft an essay that cleverly ties your hairties to broader themes of life choices, cultural trends, or personal development, it could produce a memorable piece. For instance, you might explore how the diversity of hairties you have collected reflects your openness to new experiences and cultural influences. Alternatively, you could delve into the personal story behind a specific hairtie, such as its significance in a family tradition or a memorable personal event.
Challenges and Pitfalls
It’s important to break down why a hairtie might not be the ideal topic. Simply describing what a hairtie looks like is unlikely to capture the essence of an effective personal essay. The essay should reflect a deeper aspect of who you are, share insights about your personal growth, or demonstrate your self-realization and aspirations. If the essay focuses too much on the mundane or fails to illustrate your unique qualities, it may not resonate with the admissions committee.
Creating a Compelling Essay
To make your essay about hairties truly compelling, it needs to be well-written and insightful. Here are some steps to follow:
Relate the topic to your personal journey: Explain how your interest in hairties has evolved over time and why it holds personal significance. Dig into the motivations behind your choices and the stories behind the hairties you’ve accumulated. Use metaphor and symbolism: Rather than sticking to literal descriptions, use hairties as a metaphor for bigger life themes. Perhaps your journey with hairties mirrors your academic journey or your personal quest for self-discovery. Showcase your writing skills: Demonstrate your ability to craft a coherent narrative and make the essay engaging. Use vivid language, anecdotes, and examples to bring your story to life. Reflect on your growth and aspirations: When you conclude your essay, tie it back to who you are as a person and what you hope to achieve in the future. Explain how your passion for hairties has influenced your personal growth and how it ties into your broader goals and aspirations.Conclusion
Writing about a hairtie can be a fascinating and thought-provoking topic if approached creatively and authentically. While it carries risks, a well-crafted essay has the potential to make a lasting impression on the admissions committee. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can use this seemingly ordinary subject to showcase your personal growth, creativity, and unique perspective.