Writing your college application essays can feel daunting, especially when it comes to figuring out the right tone and style for your writing. Unlike the academic essays you’ve written in high school, your college applications essays are your chance to share your story, your experiences, and what makes you unique.
When it comes to personal storytelling, a common question students ask is: Should you use “I” in your college essay?
While you may have been taught to avoid the first-person perspective in school, college application essays are a different story. They are your chance to showcase your experiences, growth, and perspective, and using first-person voice often makes that easier.
In this article, we’ll break down the reasons why using “I” in your college essay isn’t just okay—it’s the key to writing a compelling and personal story.
Should You Use “I” in Your College Essay?
So, should you use “I” in your college essay? In short, yes! Using “I” helps center your personal experience, growth, and resilience in your Common App personal statement, ensuring it truly showcases you.
But wait—you might be thinking, I’ve always been told never to use “I” in an essay! So, what makes college essays different? Great question. Keep reading to explore five key reasons why using “I” in your Common App essay is not only acceptable but essential.
Reasons to Use “I” In Your College Essay
Using “I” in your college essay helps you tell your story in a clear and authentic voice. Here are a few key reasons why it’s essential:
Your College Essay is About You
Remember that your college essay is your chance to highlight who you are to colleges. The Common App personal statement, in particular, allows you to showcase your individuality, resilience, growth, and perspective. Using “I” in your Common App personal statement will allow you to express your personal story, thoughts, and values in a way that naturally centers your experience. Without the first-person perspective, your essay may feel distant or too impersonal.
Enhances Clarity and Directness
Many students worry about making their essay stand out among thousands of other applicants, but trying to avoid “I” in your essay can make your writing feel unnatural, overly complicated, or confusing.
For example, avoid writing, “One must learn to grown from failure.” Instead, simplify it to, “I grew from my failures.” Using “I” keeps your writing direct, making it easier for admissions officers to follow your story.
Strengthens Your Voice and Perspective
Your essay should reflect your thoughts, emotions, and insights. Colleges don’t just want to hear what you’ve done—they want to understand how you think. Writing in the first person allows you to present your experiences through your own lens, making your essay more engaging and personal. It also leaves room for deep, meaningful reflection, which is necessary for a compelling personal statement.
Avoids Generic or Formal Language
Some students think they need to write in a formal or highly academic tone in their college essay, but this is NOT advised. Your essay isn’t a research paper—it’s a personal statement. Using “I” helps keep your writing conversational, warm, and engaging. A natural and personal tone will make your essay feel more genuine and memorable.
Encourages a Stronger Connection with the Reader
Admissions officers read thousands of essays each year, and many blend together. What makes a college essay stand out is its ability to create a personal connection. Writing in the first person invites the reader into your world, allowing them to experience your thoughts, emotions, and growth firsthand. A well-written, first-person essay makes it easier for admissions officers to see you as a real person—someone they can picture on their campus.
Do I Have to Use “I” in my Common App Essay?
For most of your college essays—including your Common App personal statement and many supplemental essays—you should use “I” to clearly communicate your experiences, growth, and perspective. First-person storytelling is the most direct and effective way to highlight who you are.
However, a handful of more creative supplemental essays, such as UChicago’s extended essay, might lend themselves to alternative approaches. Some students choose to write in a more experimental or narrative-driven style that doesn’t rely on the first-person perspective. If you take this route, it’s crucial that your essay still reflects your perspective in a way that admissions officers can easily understand.
If you’re unsure whether your approach is effective, consider working with an Essay Coach to ensure you’re tackling the prompt in a way that strengthens your application.
Conclusion
When it comes to your college essay, the first-person perspective isn’t just allowed—it’s encouraged. Using “I” helps you tell your story authentically, create a personal connection with the reader, and showcase your unique perspective. While a few creative supplemental essays might call for a different approach, most of your application essays should center your experiences and growth.
That said, writing about yourself can be challenging. While there are general guidelines for crafting a strong Common App personal statement, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Working with an experienced Essay Coach can help you navigate the writing process and create an essay you’re truly proud of. To learn more, schedule a free consultation with HelloCollege today.
