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• Choosing Your College Essay Topic | Ideas & Examples

Choosing Your College Essay Topic | Ideas & Examples

Published on October 25, 2021 by Kirsten Courault . Revised on July 3, 2023.

A strong essay topic sets you up to write a unique, memorable college application essay . Your topic should be personal, original, and specific. Take time to brainstorm the right topic for you.

Table of contents

What makes a good topic, brainstorming questions to get started, discover the best topic for you, how to make a common topic compelling, frequently asked questions about college application essays, other interesting articles.

Here are some guidelines for a good essay topic:

• It’s focused on you and your experience
• It shares something different from the rest of your application
• It’s specific and original (not many students could write a similar essay)
• It affords the opportunity to share your positive stories and qualities

In most cases, avoid topics that

• Reflect poorly on your character and behavior
• Deal with a challenge or traumatic experience without a lesson learned or positive outlook

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Spend time reflecting on and writing out answers to the following questions. After doing this exercise, you should be able to identify a few strong topics for your college essay.

Writing about yourself can be difficult. If you’re struggling to identify your topic, try these two strategies.

Start with your qualities

After identifying your positive qualities or values, brainstorm stories that demonstrate these qualities.

Start with a story

If you already have some memorable stories in mind that you’d like to write about, think about which qualities and values you can demonstrate with those stories.

Talk it through

To make sure you choose the right topic, ask for advice from trusted friends or family members who know you well. They can help you brainstorm ideas and remember stories, and they can give you feedback on your potential essay topics.

You can also work with a guidance counselor, teacher, or other mentor to discuss which ideas are most promising. If you plan ahead , you can even workshop multiple draft essays to see which topic works best.

If you do choose a common topic, ensure you have the following to craft a unique essay:

• Surprising or unexpected story arcs
• Interesting insight or connections
• An advanced writing style

Here are a few examples of how to craft strong essays from cliché topics.

Here’s a checklist you can use to confirm that your college essay topic is right for you.

College essay topic checklist

My topic is focused on me, not on someone else.

My topic shares something different from the rest of my application.

My topic is specific and original (not many students could write a similar essay).

My topic reflects positively on my character and behavior.

If I chose to write about a traumatic or challenging experience, my essay will focus on how I overcame it or gained insight.

If I chose a common topic, my essay will have a surprising story arc, interesting insight, and/or an advanced writing style.

Good topic!

It looks like your topic is a good choice. It's specific, it avoids clichés, and it reflects positively on you.

There are no foolproof college essay topics —whatever your topic, the key is to write about it effectively. However, a good topic

• Is meaningful, specific, and personal to you
• Focuses on you and your experiences
• Reveals something beyond your test scores, grades, and extracurriculars
• Is creative and original

Yes—admissions officers don’t expect everyone to have a totally unique college essay topic . But you must differentiate your essay from others by having a surprising story arc, an interesting insight, and/or an advanced writing style .

To decide on a good college essay topic , spend time thoughtfully answering brainstorming questions. If you still have trouble identifying topics, try the following two strategies:

• Identify your qualities → Brainstorm stories that demonstrate these qualities
• Identify memorable stories → Connect your qualities to these stories

You can also ask family, friends, or mentors to help you brainstorm topics, give feedback on your potential essay topics, or recall key stories that showcase your qualities.

Most topics are acceptable for college essays if you can use them to demonstrate personal growth or a lesson learned. However, there are a few difficult topics for college essays that should be avoided. Avoid topics that are:

• Overly personal (e.g. graphic details of illness or injury, romantic or sexual relationships)
• Not personal enough (e.g. broad solutions to world problems, inspiring people or things)
• Too negative (e.g. an in-depth look at your flaws, put-downs of others, criticizing the need for a college essay)
• Too boring (e.g. a resume of your academic achievements and extracurriculars)
• Inappropriate for a college essay (e.g. illegal activities, offensive humor, false accounts of yourself, bragging about privilege)

Here’s a brief list of college essay topics that may be considered cliché:

• Extracurriculars, especially sports
• Role models
• Dealing with a personal tragedy or death in the family
• Struggling with new life situations (immigrant stories, moving homes, parents’ divorce)
• Becoming a better person after community service, traveling, or summer camp
• Overcoming a difficult class
• Using a common object as an extended metaphor

It’s easier to write a standout essay with a unique topic. However, it’s possible to make a common topic compelling with interesting story arcs, uncommon connections, and an advanced writing style.

If you want to know more about academic writing , effective communication , or parts of speech , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

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History of American Higher Education

History of American Higher Education: The Extra curriculum Importance from the Administrative Perspective

“Most of those concerned with the problems of higher education have not focused as specifically on how students are managed, Thus, when pressed for answers, both the professional and non-professional sectors say better teaching is the answer without realizing that much of what they consider as better teaching is really better managing. (Glasser, 1990).

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This could be one critical factor why the process of providing a system of curriculum review requires an approach that will involve all sectors in the school community such as the school administration, students, faculty members, alumni and industry practitioners. The involvement of all stakeholders in any form of curriculum review appears to have taken some form of mandatory requirement in the hope of creating a good balance between and among the needs of the students:  the explicit curriculum which is to preserve and transmit the culture and traditions of the past and anticipate the knowledge, skills and abilities needed to function effectively in tomorrow’s society. (Sadker & Sadker, 2005); the extra-curriculum which are activities comprising sports, clubs, student government and school newspaper, hobbies or as athletes which cause students to be interested in and take part in society. (Lee & Bricault, 2003);  the implicit, or hidden, curriculum, which emerges incidentally from the interaction between the students and the physical, social, and interpersonal environments of the school. (Sadker and Sadker, 2005)

Complementary to the role of faculty members, an administrator has an equally strong and compelling reason to actively participate and provide input into the curriculum review process. An administrator such as the Dean, Program chair, the accountant, or the non-academic personnel functioning within a school system are positions that has their own determinant and stake in the life of a student and a graduate. This means however, that administrators, having been given the authority and power to manage the curriculum and the student enrolled therein, do not encroach upon the roles of teachers in shaping and reshaping the lives of students. Both have distinct roles to play. Administrators are responsible for supervision, evaluation and control of teaching competence, faculty development programs, budgets and resource allocation for all forms activities, marketing of students, acquisition and maintenance of laboratories, library and capital equipment, hiring and training of support staff, to mention a few. Modern quality higher education need more than what the historical imperatives of the colonial universities had.

The comprehensive history of higher education (Veysey, 1965) details the profound shift that occurred in the late nineteenth century, when the American college emerged as the American university (from the colonial university) and the concept of a research university as a hegemonic model of higher education came as a positive phenomena. Collectively with the work of Rudolph (1962) (Lucas 1994), these works represented almost the major reference, and indeed, the canonical texts in the history of higher education. Here, students were described as slowly moving towards activism realizing that access to higher education has not been realized as planned. Students took notice of the problematic social environment and reacted through the student demonstrations of the 1960s and the 1970s. (Lucas, 1994). The implication of this segment of history in higher education to the curriculum emphasized the need of students to undergo formative training on areas other than the curricular component.

It is interesting to note that back in the 17th century, schools taught the “two Rs” and the three Rs” curriculum, emphasizing reading and religion and later writing. The only secondary schooling available was the Latin grammar school, which was open only to white male students who could afford the cost.  The eighteenth-century curriculum shifted toward the secular.  As a result of nationalism, democratization, and industrial development, the curriculum in the nineteenth century moved toward universal literacy, vocational competence, and preparation for citizenship.  In the first half of the twentieth century, however, the curriculum was influenced by John Dewey and the progressive movement. Creative expression, social skills, and a more integrated study of subject areas were stressed. By 1918, vocational course work had become an important part of the curriculum. In 1957, the poor performance of American schools was blamed for the country’s defeat in the race for space when Russia launched the Sputnik. As a result, the curriculum was revised, and toughened, particularly in math and science (Sadker, 2005) .

The development of the extracurricular component of student involvements was opened by the need to direct the students’ training towards a more involved, active social life. Hence, from the classroom milieu of the teachers, the venue of student development integrates the out-of-the-classroom activities which necessitated the direct involvement and management of administrators.

According to Lucas (1994), gone are the days when universities commencing from the 17th century colonial university were reluctant to move into the scientific inquiry area as well as the virtual refusal of universities to embrace new forms of knowledge or new ways of thinking, thus curtailing the inherent need of the students for a more comprehensive type of education. Although Lucas does not ponder on the reasons for such resistance, he offers his analysis on why faculties rebuff change making. The discussion of this reluctance is nevertheless intriguing. For example, when mentioning the failure of many seventeenth-century European universities to embrace science was due to very little interest in scientific discoveries. The curriculum then was limited by the educational priorities of the era.

The role of administrators in curriculum review therefore must be established as a critical link in expanding the roles of students in the social and professional areas and how student will confront the challenges within.  This now brings to the open the need of the students to fully develop their emotional intelligence not so much in the classroom learning process but in the social application phase. Administrators are in the best position to conceptualize and implement social activities as means of holistic development. Here, this becomes more of student and activity management than classroom instruction. The latter serves to prepare and enhance the student’s social preparation.

         More importantly, the implicit, or hidden curriculum called extra curriculum as advocated by Sadker, emerges incidentally from the interaction between the students and the physical, social, and interpersonal environments of the school. Although a voluntary part of school life, the extra curriculum has become a central part in the culture of American schooling, with 80 percent of all students participating in such activities as athletics, musical groups, and academic clubs. Proponents of the extra curriculum argue that it encourages student self-esteem and civic participation, improves race relations, and raises children’s aspirations, despite some sectors seeing extracurricular activities as having very little, if any, positive effect on achievement and personal development. (Sadker & Sadker, 2005) But ultimately accepting the role of the extracurricular in the total development of the students, brings the administrators along the firing line in active participation.

            Sadker however cautions administrators when the formal curriculum and the extra curriculum clash and controversy develops. Some states have instituted a “no pass, no play” rules, excluding low-achieving students from participating in varsity sports. Since these rules tend to affect minority students disproportionately, many people see these rules as making the extra curriculum exclusive and discriminatory. Others criticize the degree to which schools pour resources and attention into athletics, when that support could be going toward academics. Lucas, thus, outlines how the higher education curriculum adopted social subjects as well as application one such subject as agriculture. (Sadker, 2005)

            Thus, from the colonial era of the universities commencing from the Harvard establishment era, the shift of thinking particularly enters the modern era where key words clearly indicate the tone and scope of the subjects covered: multiculturalism, political correctness, loss of community, malaise, academic standards, and neglect of undergraduate studies, careerism, and fragmentation. The fact that many of these topics are frequently stories in major newspapers indicates the timeliness of the issues. (Lucas 1994).         Further, Lucas reminds us that until well into the nineteenth century, colleges used religious doctrine as a criteria for hiring or firing professors and presidents, antebellum southern colleges dismissed professors who espoused anti-slavery positions, pro-union stances cost professors their jobs at the turn of the century, and, as recently as the 1950s, the anti-Communist zeal of McCarthyism threatened academic freedom again. From the lay reader’s perspective, these factors may be the most relevant to the transition that faced universities.

            The need and the ultimate inclusions of the extra-curricular component in American education found some of its staunch adherents even back in the 18th century when Thomas Jefferson realigned state education. This helped ensue the period of the American brand of Enlightenment even if such advocacy took hold only towards the Civil War period through the Morril Land Act of 1862. (Thelin).  At the center of his philosophy was the belief “that education should reinforce republican politics by teaching citizens and leaders their rights and responsibilities” (Thelin on Addis, 2003). This 19th century era helped strengthen the need to include the liberal arts and sciences, the liberation from denominational and religious teaching and the recognition and expansion of the rights of marginal students such as women and the black minority as well as the period of elitism and inclusive education.

            For administrators, the preceding discussion, clarify their roles not only in the review of the curriculum, but also in the management and the initiatives needed to produce highly competitive graduates, highly employable ones, and ultimately strong decision-makers in a constantly evolving complexities in the world. Quality of education, it is believed and practiced, is not just an internal perception and certification of best practices and good standards of teaching. Best practices in instruction, faculty, community involvement, student services, laboratories, physical plant, library system and the administration component often represent the indicators of quality accreditation certification.  Such practices and standards should pass the periodic objective scrutiny of third party validation called accreditation in various levels. Considering that administrators are expected to be primarily responsible of setting the tone of the quality of the educational environment in the school, they are considered equally significant critical components of quality education just like the faculty area and instruction.  Education and the accompanying curricular management practices, from many observers produces higher quality results. (AACSB 2008). The synergy of curricular and extracurricular dimensions helps foster sensitivity and flexibility toward cultural differences in a global context. That is, students are given the opportunity of exposure to cultural practices different than their own.

List of references

AACSB (2008),  Eligibility procedures and accreditation standards for business accreditation, Florida: AACSB International – The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Glasser, W. (1990).  The quality school: Managing students without coercion, New York: Harper & Row Publishers, Inc.

Lee, H. & Bricault, Dr. (2003 Apr 24), Comparison of extracurriculum in Korea and United States: ESL 0980 Advanced Structure, Retrieved from the internet October 29, 2008, Website: campus.northpark.edu/home/documents/esl/Hyeillee.doc

Lucas, C. J. (1994) American Higher Education: A History, Second Edition, New York Barnes and Noble, John Hopkins University Press, Retrieved October 31, 2008,Website: http://www.press.jhu.edu/books/title_pages/8573.html

Rudolph, Frederick Rudolph, The American College and University: A History (New York: A. Knopf, 1962; reprint, Athens: University of Georgia Press, 1990); and Laurence R. Veysey, The Emergence of the American University (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1965).

Sadker, Sadker. Teacher, school, society. 7th Edition, On Line learning Center Retrieved October 31, 2008,website:  http://highered.mcgraw-hill.com/sites/0072877723/student_view0/chapter2/#

Retrieved from “http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Extracurricular_activity”

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Crafting a college essay can be a pivotal moment in your academic journey. It’s an opportunity to showcase your voice, share your experiences, and stand out from the crowd. 

Picking from a vast array of college essay topics can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled an exhaustive list of 100 college essay topics. These topics are categorized to boost your creativity and help you find the perfect theme that resonates with your story. 

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We’ve also given helpful tips on how to choose and write the perfect essay for college. So let’s start by understanding how to pick the perfect college essay topic:

How to pick the perfect college essay topic

Selecting good college essay topics is more than just finding a subject that sounds impressive. It’s about finding a genuine fit for your personality and experiences. Here’s how to identify the best college essay topics for your unique narrative:

Reflect on your passions: What excites you? What are you eager to explore further?

Consider your experiences: Which life events have shaped who you are?

Identify your growth: How have challenges and obstacles contributed to your personal development?

Think about relevance: Will this topic be engaging for the admissions committee?

Be authentic: Choose a topic that allows your genuine self to shine through.

With these considerations in mind, let’s dive into a curated list of essay topics for college students, designed to spark inspiration and provoke thought.

100 Best college essay topics

We’ve created a list of the unique college essay topics that stand out to help you ace your essay!

Argumentative college essay topics

Here is a list of top argumentative essay topics for college:

1. The role of government in regulating internet content.

2. Should higher education be a right or a privilege?

3. The ethical implications of gene editing in humans.

4. Are standardized tests an accurate measure of student intelligence?

5. The impact of social media on youth and society.

6. Should college athletes be paid for playing sports?

7. The viability of a four-day workweek.

8. Is a gap year beneficial before starting college?

9. The influence of advertising on consumer behavior.

10. Privacy vs. security: How much surveillance is too much?

Persuasive essay topics for college

Here is a list of top persuasive essay topics for college:

1. The importance of arts education in schools.

2. Why volunteering should be part of the college curriculum.

3. The benefits of bilingual education.

4. The necessity of making public transport free.

5. Why we must invest in renewable energy sources.

6. The case for banning single-use plastics.

7. Should voting be mandatory?

8. The importance of preserving historical monuments.

9. Why we need stricter regulations on animal testing.

10. The need for more progressive tax systems.

Compare and contrast essay topics for college students

Here is a list of top compare-and-contrast essay topics for college:

1. Living on campus vs. commuting: Which is better for college students?

2. Online classes vs. traditional classes: A comparison of effectiveness.

3. The pros and cons of private vs. public universities.

4. Western vs. Eastern philosophies of education.

5. Fast food vs. home-cooked meals: Implications on health.

6. Traditional vs. alternative medicine: A comparative study.

7. The leadership styles of two prominent figures in history.

8. Book adaptations: When the book or the movie is better?

9. Comparing two different approaches to environmental conservation.

10. The impact of different parenting styles on child development.

Cause and effect essay topics for college students

Here is a list of top cause-and-effect essay topics for college:

1. The effects of social networking sites on communication.

2. How does consumerism affect the global economy?

3. The impact of college debt on future life choices of students.

4. The effects of global warming on polar ice caps.

5. The causes and effects of insomnia during exam periods.

6. How does stress affect health and well-being?

7. The influence of diet on cognitive functions.

8. The effects of music on mood and productivity.

9. The impact of technology on the job market.

10. Causes and effects of cultural appropriation.

Creative college essay topics

Here is a list of top creative essay topics for college:

1. Imagine a day in the life of your favorite book character.

2. If you could invent something, what would it be and why?

3. The adventures of living in a parallel universe.

4. Writing a eulogy for a historical villain.

5. A world without smartphones: Chaos or calm?

6. If you could converse with an artist from the past, who would it be?

7. The experience of time travel to your most and least favorite historical periods.

8. What if you were the president for a week?

9. If animals could form their own society, how would it look?

10. A letter to a future generation about life in the 21st century.

College essay topics about life goals

Here is a list of top life goals essay topics for college:

1. How your career goals have evolved over time.

2. The influence of a family business on your professional aspirations.

3. The importance of role models in shaping your future ambitions.

4. A major life goal and the steps you’re taking to achieve it.

5. How overcoming a significant challenge has refocused your life goals.

6. The impact of travel on your personal and professional objectives.

7. The importance of lifelong learning in your career path.

8. The role of mentorship in achieving success.

9. How do you plan to give back to your community in your future career?

10. The pursuit of happiness: Defining and achieving your life’s goals.

Informative essay topics for college

Here is a list of top informative essay topics for college:

1. The history and impact of the feminist movement.

2. The process of neural network development in artificial intelligence.

3. Exploring the causes of economic recessions.

4. The role of genetics in determining personality.

5. The significance of the Green Revolution in agriculture.

6. The evolution of space exploration technology.

7. The impact of colonialism on modern-day global relations.

8. The fundamentals of quantum computing.

9. Understanding the human impact on ocean life.

10. The rise of virtual reality and its potential applications.

Research essay topics for college

Here is a list of top research essay topics for college:

1. Analyzing the efficacy of the current educational model in fostering innovation.

2. The role of social media influencers in shaping youth culture.

3. The effects of urbanization on biodiversity.

4. The relationship between mental health and modern work culture.

5. The impact of cryptocurrencies on global finance.

6. The evolution of gender roles over the past century.

7. The influence of climate change policies on international relations.

8. The effects of diet trends on public health.

9. The future of genetic engineering in medicine.

10. The role of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of employment.

Narrative essay topics for college students

Here is a list of top narrative essay topics for college:

1. The moment you overcame a profound fear.

2. An encounter that changed your perspective on life.

3. The experience of losing something or someone important.

4. A moment of failure that turned into a lesson of success.

5. Your first day at college and how it met your expectations.

6. A journey that was more than just travel.

7. A significant memory that defines your childhood.

8. The challenge of adapting to a new culture.

9. An act of kindness that left a lasting impact on you.

10. A situation where you had to stand up for what you believed in.

Personal essay topics for college students

Here is a list of top personal essay topics for college:

1. How has a book or movie influenced your understanding of the world?

2. The role of a particular extracurricular activity in shaping who you are.

3. A personal philosophy or mantra that guides your life.

4. The journey of self-discovery during your teenage years.

5. Overcoming a personal struggle to achieve a goal.

6. A cultural tradition that holds significant meaning for you.

7. The impact of a mentor or teacher on your life.

8. A pivotal moment of realization about your identity.

9. How do you cope with stress and maintain mental well-being?

10. The importance of a work-life balance in your personal vision.

Now that we have a list of 100 college essay topics that cover many types of essays and writing styles, let’s delve into how to write an essay , perfect for college!

How to write the perfect college essay

Writing an essay for college admission is not just about showcasing your knowledge; it’s about telling a story that reflects your identity, aspirations, and the value you can bring to a college community. Whether you’re starting an essay or aiming to conclude an essay , here are steps to ensure your essay stands out:

Understanding the prompt

Before you begin writing, understand the academic writing prompt thoroughly. Make sure you know what the question is asking and how you can address it in a unique way that showcases your strengths and experiences.

Choosing your topic wisely

Select a topic that resonates with you and allows you to share something personal and significant. Know which common college essay topics to avoid, and instead, choose unique college essay topics that allow your personality and voice to shine through.

Crafting a compelling introduction

Your introduction should hook the reader and set the tone for the rest of the essay. Start with an anecdote, a surprising fact, or a thought-provoking question to draw the reader in.

Developing a clear structure

Organize and format your college essay with a clear essay structure , including an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph should support the main thesis outline of your essay with evidence and personal reflections.

Showcasing your voice

Your essay should sound like you. Use your own voice and avoid overly formal language. The goal is to make the reader feel as though they are getting to know the real you.

Being honest and reflective

Be honest in your writing and reflect on your experiences. Admissions officers can tell when a student is being genuine versus when they’re saying what they think the college wants to hear.

Proofreading and revising

After you’ve written your essay, take the time to do essay proofreading and edit your essay if necessary. Look for grammatical errors , check for flow, and make sure your essay is clear and concise. It can be helpful to have someone else read your essay to provide feedback. You can also use tools like essay checkers to make your work easier.

Avoiding taboo topics

There are certain college essay topics to avoid, such as those that are overly controversial, inappropriate, or cliché. Choose a topic that is meaningful but also appropriate for a diverse audience.

Some examples of essay topics to avoid include:

1. Grandiose tales of heroism that seem exaggerated or implausible.

2. The story of your achievements without reflection on the journey or challenges.

3. Controversial topics that do not contribute to a positive discourse or understanding.

4. Overly polarizing political or religious topics that may not resonate with the reader.

5. Cliched volunteer experiences that don’t reveal anything unique about you.

Ending with impact

Your conclusion should wrap up your essay without simply summarizing what you’ve already said. End with a reflection on how the topic has shaped you or how you’ve grown from the experience.

Your college essay is more than an assignment; it’s a canvas for your experiences and dreams. Choose a topic that resonates with you, and let your passion shine through your words. And while AI essay writers can provide assistance with the initial stages of drafting, the real magic comes from your personal touch and insights. 

To ensure your essay truly stands out, consider the expert editing and proofreading services offered by PaperTrue. Our team can sharpen your narrative, correct any linguistic errors, and enhance your essay’s clarity, allowing your unique voice to captivate the admissions committee. Happy writing!

Keep on reading for more useful tips:

• Guide to a Perfect Descriptive Essay [Examples & Outline Included]
• What Is an Adverb? Definition, Types, Differences & Examples

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I’ve worked in higher education for 23 years, 4 months and 6 days. If you add college and grad school to the mix, I’ve been associated with universities for (let’s see... carry the five... plus two… equals) a long time.

So I’ve had plenty of opportunities to ponder our peculiar industry and consider why things are the way they are.

People always ask me that very question. Really -- they just come up to me at parties, shrug their shoulders and say, “Why?” I try not to think it’s some kind of existential query or it’s because I’m wearing a plaid jacket with a striped shirt and a polka dot tie. I might develop a complex or something.

No, I think we simply have more questions than answers. To wit:

• Why does our year end in June (or July, for some) when the rest of the world thinks in terms of, you know, January to December?
• Why, when we’re considering change of any sort, is the most frequently uttered phrase, “Because we’ve always done it that way”?
• Why, when communicating externally, do we use jargon and buzzwords only we understand?
• Why do we aim to obfuscate and befuddle in the Orwellian tradition?
• Why do some believe academic freedom extends beyond the normal boundaries of free speech and, for that matter, decorum?
• Why do we assume academic freedom doesn’t exist absent tenure?
• Why do we think the public understands tuition discounting and won’t have sticker shock?
• Why do birds suddenly appear…?
• Why don’t TV crews follow athletes from the field to the library after Saturday night’s big game to show that academic ability and athletic prowess can live in true harmony?
• Why does every campus community in America complain about parking as if it’s their own private hell?
• Why don’t we conclude that if it takes 10 months to fill an important administrative vacancy and the place doesn’t fold in the meantime, then perhaps we could do without it?
• Why are there no classes on Fridays?
• Why are there classes at 8 a.m.?
• Why does the Big 12 have 10 members?
• Why does the Big Ten have 14?
• Why does the Atlantic Coast Conference think the coast extends to South Bend, Ind.?
• Why does the Big East consider Chicago east?
• Why are résumés 2 pages and vitae 30?
• Why do no decisions get made and no work gets done during the six weeks known as “the holidays”?
• Why are we no longer permitted to utter the word “Christmas”?
• Why do we hire experienced experts whose first order of business is to hire consultants?
• Why do fools fall in love?
• Why can’t I find SEC hockey on ESPNU?
• Why do adjuncts adjunct under such conditions?
• Why does the media pay so much attention to universities that collectively enroll less than 1 percent of our nation’s students?
• Why don’t they pay more attention to systemic issues such as those adjuncts?
• Why do students never read the syllabus until something goes wrong?
• Why do employees never read the employee manual until something goes wrong?
• Why do all mission statements sound the same and yet say nothing?
• Why aren’t there more bowling scholarships?
• Why do we still value seat time over competencies?
• Why do we conflate administrative experience with ability?
• Why do we need 22 assistant directors of admissions?
• Why is an appendix more valuable to a book than to a human body?
• Why can’t we be friends?
• Why do textbooks cost more than my first car?
• Why do textbooks depreciate faster than cars?
• Why do people post what they had for lunch on Facebook?
• Why do we respond?
• Why isn’t college baseball more popular?
• Why do we continue blaming rising costs on external regulations?
• Why do we need climbing walls?
• Why do we celebrate snow days like we’re in middle school?
• Why don’t we have more snow days?
• Why are the paved pathways across the quad never the shortest route?
• Why don’t we do it in the road?
• Why do people confuse deciding with doing?
• Why do we fuss with the various Latin declensions of “alumni” when it’s easier to say “graduates”?
• Why do we all say we recognize charismatic leadership when we see it but can’t seem to define charisma?
• Why ask why?

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75 Interesting History Essay Topics

Do you wonder how ancient civilizations functioned and evolved through the years of inventions and innovation? History indeed teaches us so much about the people and communities that created an impact back then. While literary essay topics help you explore the nuanced writing forms, history essay topics are meant to nurture your research skills. The thirst to discover stories of war, victories of freedom fighters, and the smuggling of arms can be quenched by engaging in essay writing. 

History is vast, ranging from states to nations, from forts to ports and so much more. In such a case, you simply cannot be studying it all or exploring topics all of a sudden. Hence, it is important to know that history can be categorized into different types wherein you can choose the one that interests you the most. Writing history essays empowers critical thinking skills and builds a problem-solving mindset in everyday life. This article will take you through different history essay topics motivating you to discover varied perspectives, ideas, and ideologies of the past.

Engaging History Essay Topics 

Various creative writing topics for high schoolers tap into building their imagination skills and enhancing their thinking abilities. However, along with history websites , interesting history essay Topics enable students to dive deeper into the ancient world and discover evolution. It is important to provide students with the right topic that interests them thereby inspiring them to research and find facts. The below-mentioned topics are a combination of various parts of history that help teachers offer a comprehensive learning environment. 

1. General History Essay Topics

• The reasons behind the fall of the Roman Empire and its effects.
• The effects of the printing press on the Renaissance’s dissemination of knowledge.
• Propaganda’s function in World War II and its impact on public opinion.
• The historical contributions of ancient African civilizations.
• The Silk Road’s importance in promoting trade and cultural exchange between East and West.
• The elements that led to the Byzantine Empire’s rise and demise.
• How the Scientific Revolution affected the growth of modern science.
• Analyzing the social and cultural backdrop of the frenzy during the Salem Witch Trials.
• The Louisiana Purchase’s importance in influencing American expansion.
• The effects of the Spanish Inquisition on freedom and toleration of religion.
• The impact of Enlightenment thought on the French and American Revolutions.
• How the Mongol invasions affected the economies and societies of Eurasian countries.
• The consequences of the Protestant Reformation on politics and society in Europe.
• The artistic and governmental achievements of the ancient Persian Empire.
• The reasons for and effects of the Chinese and British opium wars.

2. Essay Topics on Ancient History 

• The pharaohs’ achievements offer a glimpse into the growth and fall of Egyptian civilization.
• The legacy of ancient Mesopotamia is the contributions it made to early human cultures and culture.
• What can we infer about the Indus Valley Civilization, a prehistoric culture, and its significance?
• The causes behind the rise, expansion, and ultimate destruction of the Roman Empire.
• The construction of China’s Great Wall and its significance.
• Ancient Rome’s aqueducts, roadways, and structures are feats of engineering.
• The development and significance of early scripts like cuneiform and hieroglyphics.
• Symbolism and purpose in the art and architecture of ancient civilizations.
• The impact of mummification methods on ancient Egyptian ideas about the afterlife.
• Beginnings and religious practices of ancient civilizations: A comparison.
• The importance of the ancient Olympic Games in promoting peace and harmony between city-states.
• Legendary stories’ cultural value to ancient cultures.
• Influence of the Persian Empire on regional trade and cultural exchange.
• Investigating the Mayan civilization’s triumphs and demise.
• Early Indian mathematicians’ contributions to mathematics.

3. Essay Topics on World History 

• How Europe’s intellectual and cultural development was fueled by the Renaissance.
• The effects of the Cuban Missile Crisis on the Cold War and world politics.
• The effect of the Mongol invasions on how medieval Eurasia developed.
• The legacy of ancient civilizations: Contrasting and comparing the contributions of the civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley.
• Gender rights and the position of women during the French Revolution.
• The causes of the Roman Empire’s collapse during its ascent and fall.
• The reasons for and effects of the 1917 Russian Revolution.
• The importance of the Silk Road in fostering commercial exchange.
• The contribution of the Enlightenment to world upheavals and reformations.
• China’s connections with the West after the Opium Wars.
• The effect of the Spanish Conquistadors on the Americas’ indigenous cultures.
• The causes of the Byzantine Empire’s collapse and its historical repercussions throughout Europe.
• Political and religious changes in Europe as a result of the Protestant Reformation.
• The emergence of empires in prehistoric Mesopotamia and their historical consequences.
• The Declaration of Independence’s importance in molding American history.

4. Essay Topics on Black History 

• The influence of the Harlem Renaissance on African-American culture.
• The importance of the Underground Railroad in aiding slaves’ freedom-related escapes.
• African-American participation in the Civil War and their struggle for freedom.
• The racial equality campaigns carried out by the Black Panthers.
• African-American aviators in World War II as the Tuskegee Airmen.
• The integration process of the first African American pupils into previously all-white schools.
• The history of Black History Month and its importance.
• The Civil Rights Act of 1964’s legacy and ongoing effects.
• The battle for desegregation by the Little Rock Nine.
• Black Lives Matter: Its Background and Importance
• The fight for voting rights and electoral participation by African Americans.
• Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs’): Background and Influence.
• Importance of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.
• The Black Arts Movement’s influence on culture during the 1960s and 1970s.
• The National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People’s (NAACP): Background and Significance.

5. Argumentative Essay Topics on History

• Was the American Revolution a true revolution or was it merely a fight for independence?
• Social and economic effects of the Industrial Revolution on the working class.
• Women’s participation and contributions to the war effort during World War II.
• The Mongol Empire’s legacy: Did it make a positive or detrimental impact on world history?
• The Declaration of Independence’s importance in influencing American values and administration.
• The benefits and drawbacks of imperialism.
• The effects of the Treaty of Versailles on post-World War I stability in Europe.
• The Black Death’s consequences on medieval society and how they affected Europe in the long run.
• The reasons behind the French Revolution and its effects.
• The reasons behind and effects of the Cold War’s Cuban Missile Crisis.
• Analyzing the civil rights movement’s effects on society and determining its effectiveness.
• The importance of ancient Greek and Roman culture in forming contemporary Western culture.
• The discussion around the use of atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
• The function of propaganda in World Wars I and II.
• Nelson Mandela’s contribution to the end of apartheid in South Africa.

Final Words

Drafting your thoughts about different history topics helps you explore a world of possibilities. Essay writing helps develop control grammar and language skills thereby strengthening communication.

With the above-mentioned history essay topics, you can choose the one that interests you the most. Ensure to pen down your thoughts and add new perspectives to the stories of the past. Students can also explore and play online history games to learn more about history and practice the same.

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Explore a plethora of invaluable resources and insights tailored for high schoolers at TheHighSchooler, under the guidance of Sananda Bhattacharya’s expertise. You can follow her on Linkedin

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113 Perfect Persuasive Essay Topics for Any Assignment

General Education

Do you need to write a persuasive essay but aren’t sure what topic to focus on? Were you thrilled when your teacher said you could write about whatever you wanted but are now overwhelmed by the possibilities? We’re here to help!

Read on for a list of 113 top-notch persuasive essay topics, organized into ten categories. To help get you started, we also discuss what a persuasive essay is, how to choose a great topic, and what tips to keep in mind as you write your persuasive essay.

What Is a Persuasive Essay?

In a persuasive essay, you attempt to convince readers to agree with your point of view on an argument. For example, an essay analyzing changes in Italian art during the Renaissance wouldn’t be a persuasive essay, because there’s no argument, but an essay where you argue that Italian art reached its peak during the Renaissance would be a persuasive essay because you’re trying to get your audience to agree with your viewpoint.

Persuasive and argumentative essays both try to convince readers to agree with the author, but the two essay types have key differences. Argumentative essays show a more balanced view of the issue and discuss both sides. Persuasive essays focus more heavily on the side the author agrees with. They also often include more of the author’s opinion than argumentative essays, which tend to use only facts and data to support their argument.

All persuasive essays have the following:

• Introduction: Introduces the topic, explains why it’s important, and ends with the thesis.
• Thesis: A sentence that sums up what the essay be discussing and what your stance on the issue is.
• Reasons you believe your side of the argument: Why do you support the side you do? Typically each main point will have its own body paragraph.
• Evidence supporting your argument: Facts or examples to back up your main points. Even though your opinion is allowed in persuasive essays more than most other essays, having concrete examples will make a stronger argument than relying on your opinion alone.
• Conclusion: Restatement of thesis, summary of main points, and a recap of why the issue is important.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Essay Topic?

Theoretically, you could write a persuasive essay about any subject under the sun, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should. Certain topics are easier to write a strong persuasive essay on, and below are tips to follow when deciding what you should write about.

It’s a Topic You Care About

Obviously, it’s possible to write an essay about a topic you find completely boring. You’ve probably done it! However, if possible, it’s always better to choose a topic that you care about and are interested in. When this is the case, you’ll find doing the research more enjoyable, writing the essay easier, and your writing will likely be better because you’ll be more passionate about and informed on the topic.

You Have Enough Evidence to Support Your Argument

Just being passionate about a subject isn’t enough to make it a good persuasive essay topic, though. You need to make sure your argument is complex enough to have at least two potential sides to root for, and you need to be able to back up your side with evidence and examples. Even though persuasive essays allow your opinion to feature more than many other essays, you still need concrete evidence to back up your claims, or you’ll end up with a weak essay.

For example, you may passionately believe that mint chocolate chip ice cream is the best ice cream flavor (I agree!), but could you really write an entire essay on this? What would be your reasons for believing mint chocolate chip is the best (besides the fact that it’s delicious)? How would you support your belief? Have enough studies been done on preferred ice cream flavors to support an entire essay? When choosing a persuasive essay idea, you want to find the right balance between something you care about (so you can write well on it) and something the rest of the world cares about (so you can reference evidence to strengthen your position).

It’s a Manageable Topic

Bigger isn’t always better, especially with essay topics. While it may seem like a great idea to choose a huge, complex topic to write about, you’ll likely struggle to sift through all the information and different sides of the issue and winnow them down to one streamlined essay. For example, choosing to write an essay about how WWII impacted American life more than WWI wouldn’t be a great idea because you’d need to analyze all the impacts of both the wars in numerous areas of American life. It’d be a huge undertaking. A better idea would be to choose one impact on American life the wars had (such as changes in female employment) and focus on that. Doing so will make researching and writing your persuasive essay much more feasible.

List of 113 Good Persuasive Essay Topics

Below are over 100 persuasive essay ideas, organized into ten categories. When you find an idea that piques your interest, you’ll choose one side of it to argue for in your essay. For example, if you choose the topic, “should fracking be legal?” you’d decide whether you believe fracking should be legal or illegal, then you’d write an essay arguing all the reasons why your audience should agree with you.

Arts/Culture

• Should students be required to learn an instrument in school?
• Did the end of Game of Thrones fit with the rest of the series?
• Can music be an effective way to treat mental illness?
• With e-readers so popular, have libraries become obsolete?
• Are the Harry Potter books more popular than they deserve to be?
• Should music with offensive language come with a warning label?
• What’s the best way for museums to get more people to visit?
• Should students be able to substitute an art or music class for a PE class in school?
• Are the Kardashians good or bad role models for young people?
• Should people in higher income brackets pay more taxes?
• Should all high school students be required to take a class on financial literacy?
• Is it possible to achieve the American dream, or is it only a myth?
• Is it better to spend a summer as an unpaid intern at a prestigious company or as a paid worker at a local store/restaurant?
• Should the United States impose more or fewer tariffs?
• Should college graduates have their student loans forgiven?
• Should restaurants eliminate tipping and raise staff wages instead?
• Should students learn cursive writing in school?
• Which is more important: PE class or music class?
• Is it better to have year-round school with shorter breaks throughout the year?
• Should class rank be abolished in schools?
• Should students be taught sex education in school?
• Should students be able to attend public universities for free?
• What’s the most effective way to change the behavior of school bullies?
• Are the SAT and ACT accurate ways to measure intelligence?
• Should students be able to learn sign language instead of a foreign language?
• Do the benefits of Greek life at colleges outweigh the negatives?
• Does doing homework actually help students learn more?
• Why do students in many other countries score higher than American students on math exams?
• Should parents/teachers be able to ban certain books from schools?
• What’s the best way to reduce cheating in school?
• Should colleges take a student’s race into account when making admissions decisions?
• Should there be limits to free speech?
• Should students be required to perform community service to graduate high school?
• Should convicted felons who have completed their sentence be allowed to vote?
• Should gun ownership be more tightly regulated?
• Should recycling be made mandatory?
• Should employers be required to offer paid leave to new parents?
• Are there any circumstances where torture should be allowed?
• Should children under the age of 18 be able to get plastic surgery for cosmetic reasons?
• Should white supremacy groups be allowed to hold rallies in public places?
• Does making abortion illegal make women more or less safe?
• Does foreign aid actually help developing countries?
• Are there times a person’s freedom of speech should be curtailed?
• Should people over a certain age not be allowed to adopt children?

Government/Politics

• Should the minimum voting age be raised/lowered/kept the same?
• Should Puerto Rico be granted statehood?
• Should the United States build a border wall with Mexico?
• Who should be the next person printed on American banknotes?
• Should the United States’ military budget be reduced?
• Did China’s one child policy have overall positive or negative impacts on the country?
• Should DREAMers be granted US citizenship?
• Is national security more important than individual privacy?
• What responsibility does the government have to help homeless people?
• Should the electoral college be abolished?
• Should the US increase or decrease the number of refugees it allows in each year?
• Should privately-run prisons be abolished?
• Who was the most/least effective US president?
• Will Brexit end up helping or harming the UK?

• What’s the best way to reduce the spread of Ebola?
• Is the Keto diet a safe and effective way to lose weight?
• Should the FDA regulate vitamins and supplements more strictly?
• Should public schools require all students who attend to be vaccinated?
• Is eating genetically modified food safe?
• What’s the best way to make health insurance more affordable?
• What’s the best way to lower the teen pregnancy rate?
• Should recreational marijuana be legalized nationwide?
• Should birth control pills be available without a prescription?
• Should pregnant women be forbidden from buying cigarettes and alcohol?
• Why has anxiety increased in adolescents?
• Are low-carb or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
• What caused the destruction of the USS Maine?
• Was King Arthur a mythical legend or actual Dark Ages king?
• Was the US justified in dropping atomic bombs during WWII?
• What was the primary cause of the Rwandan genocide?
• What happened to the settlers of the Roanoke colony?
• Was disagreement over slavery the primary cause of the US Civil War?
• What has caused the numerous disappearances in the Bermuda triangle?
• Should nuclear power be banned?
• Is scientific testing on animals necessary?
• Do zoos help or harm animals?
• Should scientists be allowed to clone humans?
• Should animals in circuses be banned?
• Should fracking be legal?
• Should people be allowed to keep exotic animals as pets?
• What’s the best way to reduce illegal poaching in Africa?
• What is the best way to reduce the impact of global warming?
• Should euthanasia be legalized?
• Is there legitimate evidence of extraterrestrial life?
• Should people be banned from owning aggressive dog breeds?
• Should the United States devote more money towards space exploration?
• Should the government subsidize renewable forms of energy?
• Is solar energy worth the cost?
• Should stem cells be used in medicine?
• Is it right for the US to leave the Paris Climate Agreement?
• Should athletes who fail a drug test receive a lifetime ban from the sport?
• Should college athletes receive a salary?
• Should the NFL do more to prevent concussions in players?
• Do PE classes help students stay in shape?
• Should horse racing be banned?
• Should cheerleading be considered a sport?
• Should children younger than 18 be allowed to play tackle football?
• Are the costs of hosting an Olympic Games worth it?
• Can online schools be as effective as traditional schools?
• Do violent video games encourage players to be violent in real life?
• Should facial recognition technology be banned?
• Does excessive social media use lead to depression/anxiety?
• Has the rise of translation technology made knowing multiple languages obsolete?
• Was Steve Jobs a visionary or just a great marketer?
• Should social media be banned for children younger than a certain age?
• Which 21st-century invention has had the largest impact on society?
• Are ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft good or bad for society?
• Should Facebook have done more to protect the privacy of its users?
• Will technology end up increasing or decreasing inequality worldwide?

Tips for Writing a Strong Persuasive Essay

After you’ve chosen the perfect topic for your persuasive essay, your work isn’t over. Follow the three tips below to create a top-notch essay.

Do Your Research

Your argument will fall apart if you don’t fully understand the issue you’re discussing or you overlook an important piece of it. Readers won’t be convinced by someone who doesn’t know the subject, and you likely won’t persuade any of them to begin supporting your viewpoint. Before you begin writing a single word of your essay, research your topic thoroughly. Study different sources, learn about the different sides of the argument, ask anyone who’s an expert on the topic what their opinion is, etc. You might be tempted to start writing right away, but by doing your research, you’ll make the writing process much easier when the time comes.

Make Your Thesis Perfect

Your thesis is the most important sentence in your persuasive essay. Just by reading that single sentence, your audience should know exactly what topic you’ll be discussing and where you stand on the issue. You want your thesis to be crystal clear and to accurately set up the rest of your essay. Asking classmates or your teacher to look it over before you begin writing the rest of your essay can be a big help if you’re not entirely confident in your thesis.

Consider the Other Side

You’ll spend most of your essay focusing on your side of the argument since that’s what you want readers to come away believing. However, don’t think that means you can ignore other sides of the issue. In your essay, be sure to discuss the other side’s argument, as well as why you believe this view is weak or untrue. Researching all the different viewpoints and including them in your essay will increase the quality of your writing by making your essay more complete and nuanced.

Summary: Persuasive Essay Ideas

Good persuasive essay topics can be difficult to come up with, but in this guide we’ve created a list of 113 excellent essay topics for you to browse. The best persuasive essay ideas will be those that you are interested in, have enough evidence to support your argument, and aren’t too complicated to be summarized in an essay.

After you’ve chosen your essay topic, keep these three tips in mind when you begin writing:

• Do your research
• Make your thesis perfect
• Consider the other side

What's Next?

Need ideas for a research paper topic as well? Our guide to research paper topics has over 100 topics in ten categories so you can be sure to find the perfect topic for you.

Thinking about taking an AP English class? Read our guide on AP English classes to learn whether you should take AP English Language or AP English Literature (or both!)

Deciding between the SAT or ACT? Find out for sure which you will do the best on . Also read a detailed comparison between the two tests .

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Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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Essays on Higher Education

Home / Essay Samples / Education / Higher Education

Essays on Higher Education

The types of problems normally discussed in a higher education essay includes among other issues: the challenges encountered including that of getting accepted to a higher education institution, funding the studies, obtaining a scholarship; the personal experience of studying for a particular qualification, in a particular program, or a particular high-level course; employment prospects after graduation.

Students might also choose to share what they learned throughout the program apart from the discipline-related content – they might focus on the soft skills acquired or the personality traits that they developed. Higher education is a challenging endeavor and it exposes people to fairly intensive stress – as part of this process, people often learn how to become more resilient, more efficient.

My Leadership Experience in College

College life is not just about academics; it's also an opportunity to develop essential life skills, including leadership. During my time in college, I had the privilege of engaging in various leadership roles and experiences that profoundly shaped my personal and professional growth. In this...

Why College is Important for Personal and Professional Development

College education has long been considered a cornerstone of personal growth and professional development. In this essay, we will explore the multifaceted reasons why college is crucial for individuals seeking to expand their horizons, cultivate essential skills, and embark on successful careers. One of the...

Why College Should Be Free: an Investment in Education and Society

Access to quality education is a fundamental right that should be available to all, irrespective of their socioeconomic background. However, the rising costs of higher education have made it increasingly difficult for many individuals to pursue a college degree. In this essay, we will explore...

Should College Be Free: Analysis of Benefits and Drawbacks

The question of whether college education should be free in the United States has been a subject of ongoing debate. Proponents argue that free college would increase accessibility and reduce the burden of student debt, while opponents raise concerns about the cost, potential devaluation of...

Why I Deserve the Scholarship:my Determination

As I reflect on my educational journey and the path that has led me to this point, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunities I have had and the challenges I have overcome. Receiving this scholarship would not only be...

Embracing Life after School's Journey of Growth and Discovery

Graduating from school marks a significant milestone in one's life. For years, school has been a structured environment, a place of learning, growth, and social interaction. As students step into the realm of life after school, they embark on a new journey filled with opportunities,...

College Convocation: a Celebration of Achievement

The day of college convocation is a momentous occasion, a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and growth. As graduates don their caps and gowns, they mark the transition from students to alumni, ready to embark on new journeys armed with knowledge, experiences, and...

How a Scholarship Will Help: Impact of a Scholarship on My Education

Receiving a scholarship would be a transformative turning point in my educational journey, bestowing me with opportunities that might otherwise remain beyond my reach. This essay expounds upon the manifold ways in which a scholarship would lend invaluable support to my academic pursuits and personal...

Graduating High School: a Milestone of Achievement

As I stood on the threshold of my high school graduation, a whirlwind of emotions swept over me. The journey that had spanned four years was culminating in a single, pivotal moment. The familiar halls that had witnessed countless lessons, friendships, challenges, and triumphs were...

Transformative Power of College: How Education Shapes Lives

Entering the realm of higher education brings forth a journey of personal growth, discovery, and transformation. This essay delves into the profound impact that college can have on individuals, exploring the avenues through which education can reshape perspectives, enhance career prospects, and contribute to holistic...

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• Scholarship
• Bachelor's Degree
• Distance Education
• Special Education
• Vocational Education
• Adult Education Program
• College Education
• Academic Achievements
• Academic Interests
• Academic Performance
• Academic Challenges
• Free Education
• College Life
• College Experience
• Nursing Scholarship
• Personal Statement
• College Goals
• After Graduation
• Brittany Stinson

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