What One Thing Can Make You Standout

When your child dreams of attending an elite college, it’s easy to focus entirely on grades and test scores. After all, academic excellence seems like the ultimate ticket into prestigious institutions. But here’s the truth many parents overlook: a powerful college essay can make the difference—even for average students.

I’ve spent considerable time researching this exact scenario through forums like Reddit and College Confidential, where hundreds of real-life success stories demonstrate one clear pattern: exceptional essays regularly boost “average” applicants into extraordinary universities.

Let’s dive into exactly why essays matter so much, how average students use them to stand out, and actionable steps your child can take to craft an unforgettable essay.

Why Do Essays Matter So Much?

Think of your child’s application as a puzzle. Grades and test scores form the border—they’re essential, but alone they don’t complete the picture. Essays are the vibrant centerpiece that makes everything come alive. They offer a rare window into your child’s character, personality, and unique experiences.

Admissions officers at elite colleges read thousands of applications yearly, many with similar grades and test scores. Essays offer your child a chance to stand out genuinely and personally. In fact, Harvard admissions explicitly emphasizes the importance of essays in revealing an applicant’s true self.

As one admissions officer mentioned on Quora, “When students’ test scores look similar, essays become the crucial factor in distinguishing them from each other.”

How “Average” Students Have Thrived with Exceptional Essays (Real Stories)

Here are two real-life stories gathered from Reddit and College Confidential to show how powerful a great essay can be:

Story #1: From Reddit
An applicant shared:
“My grades and SAT were okay—not amazing. I honestly didn’t think I stood a chance at Cornell. But my essay told the story of how losing a family member transformed my perspective on life. It was authentic, vulnerable, and passionate. When I got accepted, the admissions officer wrote me a note saying my essay had touched her deeply.” (Read more here)

Story #2: College Confidential
A parent recounted their child’s journey:
“My son had decent grades, but nothing extraordinary. We weren’t even thinking about elite schools. But his essay on overcoming dyslexia was incredible. It showed resilience, creativity, and determination. He got into UC Berkeley, and we’re convinced the essay made the difference.” (Read more here)

These stories aren’t outliers. Great essays consistently provide opportunities for students who, on paper, appear average.

Common Mistakes Students Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Mistake #1: Writing What They Think Colleges Want to Hear

Admissions officers want authenticity, not generic statements. Encourage your child to share a genuine story that reveals something meaningful.

Mistake #2: Choosing Overly Common Topics

Topics like “winning a sports game” or “volunteering once” rarely stand out. Instead, pick something unique or unexpected, like a personal struggle or a small moment with significant impact.

Mistake #3: Overlooking Editing and Feedback

Great essays rarely happen overnight. Urge your child to seek feedback and revise carefully. Tools like Grammarly or professional editing services can help polish the final product.

How Your Child Can Craft a Standout Essay (Step-by-Step)

Here’s a straightforward guide to crafting a standout essay:

Step 1: Identify a Compelling, Personal Topic

Guide your child toward experiences that shaped their perspective—particularly ones highlighting resilience, growth, or uniqueness.

Step 2: Create a Clear, Engaging Narrative

A memorable essay reads like a captivating story. Use a compelling opening sentence, maintain a clear structure, and end with a thoughtful conclusion.

Step 3: Be Authentic, Not Perfect

Admissions officers connect with authenticity. Essays should feel honest and genuine, even if they describe imperfections or struggles.

Step 4: Show Reflection and Growth

A strong essay highlights personal growth. Admissions officers look for evidence of maturity and self-awareness.

Step 5: Edit and Revise Thoroughly

Encourage your child to get feedback from trusted adults or professionals and revise the essay multiple times.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: How personal should the essay be?
A: Very personal. Authenticity resonates deeply with admissions officers.

Q: Do colleges verify essay stories?
A: Rarely, but honesty is crucial. Exaggerations can be detected easily.

Q: How can my child pick the right topic?
A: Choose a story or moment that genuinely reflects who they are and how they’ve grown.