KNIGHTTIME NEWS: Fall 2025
Express Yourself: Understanding the Different Essay Types
As a former admissions officer, one of the most exciting parts of my role was reading student essays. It may sound cliché, but it’s where I got to know a student beyond their grades and test scores—their accomplishments, experiences, and the lessons they’d learned.
ELENA WONG Associate Director of College Counseling
Now, as a College Counselor, I recognize that it’s also where the application process can feel most challenging. We’re not trained to write about ourselves, let alone craft an essay that captures who we are. But that’s exactly what colleges want. The key is to understand the different types of writing involved.
There are three main types of writing you’ll encounter during the application process: the personal statement, supplemental essays, and the UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs). Each has its own purpose and style, and understanding these differences can help you craft compelling and genuine responses.
The Common Application Personal Statement
This is your main essay—a 650-word opportunity to tell your story. There are seven prompts and you choose one to write about. This might seem intimidating, but the goal isn’t to pick the most complicated one. Instead, it’s about choosing a topic that allows you to be honest and reflective. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you need a monumental story about curing cancer or a traumatic life event to stand out. The most memorable essays often focus on small, personal moments that reveal a deeper truth about you.
When I read essays from students, a few that I can remember are ones who wrote about the simple act of having dinner with their family every night, or a twin who found their individual identity through their love of theater. Admissions officers want to know what’s important to you and why. If a story, experience, or lesson is meaningful to you, it’s worth writing about.
Supplemental Essays
Supplemental essays are a way for colleges to get to know you better and see if you’re a good fit for their specific community. They often ask questions like, “Why are you interested in our school?” This is your chance to show you’ve done your research. A generic response that could be used for any university is a wasted opportunity. You need to be specific.
My advice: dig deep. Read the college’s mission and vision statements. Look at their unique traditions, specific programs, and the opportunities that excite you. Then, connect your own interests and goals to what the school offers. Show them how you would not only fit in but also contribute to their campus community.
Lately, many schools are also asking for short-answer questions, like “What’s your favorite snack?” or “Who is your ideal roommate?” These are designed to be a fun, quick way for admissions officers to get a feel for your personality. The best approach is to trust your first instinct and be yourself. Don’t overthink it—there are no wrong answers here.
The UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs)
The University of California system has its own application with eight Personal Insight Questions (PIQs), from which you will choose four to answer. At 350 words each, these are shorter and more direct than the personal statement. The UCs want clear, factual answers—they aren’t looking for a long, adjective-heavy story.
Think of these as an interview on paper. They want you to get straight to the point. Focus on providing direct, concise information without a lot of flowery language or lengthy descriptions. The best PIQs read like a conversation—simple, straightforward, and to the point.
Getting Started
The most daunting part of writing is often just starting. To find your voice and get the words flowing, try a few of these questions. Don’t worry about word counts, grammar, or even a clear introduction or conclusion. Just start writing, and see where your thoughts take you.
- What’s a family tradition that is important to you and why?
- What’s a hobby you’re passionate about?
- What’s an experience you’ve had that taught you a valuable lesson?
- What is a book, movie, or song that has influenced you?
- What’s a place you’ve traveled to that you’ll never forget?
The college application process can feel overwhelming, but remember, you don’t have to do it alone. We are here to help, and we love working with students on their essays. Please connect with your college counselor to talk through your ideas and get started!
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