The secret to writing a great essay is making significant what you believe to be insignificant. Surely in your 17 or so years, SOMETHING has happened that has changed your way of thinking or influenced you in some way, whether it be the death of a grandparent, or a really great conversation with a grandparent, or something that didn’t work out for you that you really wanted (such as membership on a team sport). I would start by thinking back to some really great days–the days you thought you were invincible, the days you thought nothing could go wrong–and some really bad days–the days you cried into your pillow and wish you could crawl into a hole. I think you’ll find your life is more interesting than you thought.

(other ideas: the best day of your life, your thoughts on the war in Iraq, what constitutes as a significant experience and why you think you have or haven’t had any)

ie. “Unfairness” got some ladies “worked up”. And they started big political changes when they took a stand on one issue, and then another..It was “unfair” that women could not vote. It was “unfair” that women get paid less on the job than men, for the same job..etc. Women’s Lib became a force for change, all because one lady complained to another, and the passion spread..

Great ideas are like that. An essay is just another way to express a point..What “reaches you”?

as far as a college admissions essay i would write about your major and why you chose it (ex: i want to be a social worker bc i have a desire to help people) or write abuot a big influence on your life such as a future president, parent, etc…

good luck!!!