When I am working with students on their college application personal statements, one of the most common questions I get is "what do the colleges want to hear on the essay?" This question is understandable. Most students want to tailor their essays to meet certain criteria they think might give them a better chance to get into a particular university. Unfortunately, this way of thinking is misguided and often leads them write a muddled, impersonal, and generic essay. Instead of writing what you think colleges what to hear, write about what inspires you, what gives your life meaning. Don't worry about what you think the colleges want to hear. Keep in mind that these essays are your one opportunity to personally stand out, and the only way you can do that is by by expressing what truly matters to you. Now, I realize that you are young and many of you have limited life experience from which to draw; however, if you spend some serious time in self-reflection, and I mean serious, no phones, no computers, no TV's, you can discover what you value in life. If you're having trouble finding some quiet time to think at your house, I suggest that you take a walk outside in nature. Exercise and the outdoors inspire discovery and creativity. Lastly, remember if you're writing about something you love, you should be enjoying yourself. These essays shouldn't be drudgery, and if they are, you might want to consider writing about something else. Now, that 's not to say these essays are easy. They're not. They take serious time, effort and patience. But throughout the writing process, not matter how difficult, you should maintain a sense of excitement and joy that comes with self-expression. So as you begin the process of writing your college application personal statement , remember to be fearless, to be intimate, to be honest, and most importantly, to be yourself.