Dear Class of 2022,
The Essay Season is officially open.
The Common Application has released its essay prompts, which ultimately remained the same except for one question. The past question concerning "a problem you've solved or a problem you'd like to solve and explain its significance" has been omitted and replaced with "Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?" You may wonder why one question has changed. According to Common Application, "The new prompt is inspired by scientific research on gratitude and kindness, specifically the benefits of writing about the positive influence of other people in our lives."
Honestly, I love this concept! Way to go, Common Application! I love that we as a community think about the student's well-being. I hope this question will be answered the most and send a wave of kindness and gratitude out in this world.
To learn more from the Common App, check out their blog.
2021-2022 Common Application Prompts:
Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.
The optional COVID-19 question, which was new to this past common application, will remain available for students in the Additional Information Section.
Williams Educational Consultants can help students connect to an essay and guide their creation. Nothing gives me more pleasure than assisting students in spreading kindness and sharing their gratitude with others!