I'm applying to college and need to brainstorm my Common App personal statement (650 words). About me:
- Background: [brief: where I grew up, family, culture]
- Interests: [academics, clubs, hobbies, jobs]
- Challenges or turning points: [anything that changed my perspective or motivated me]
- What I care about and why: [values, goals, what I want to study]
Help me:
1. Identify 2–3 possible "angles" or stories I could center the essay on.
2. For each angle, list 2–3 concrete details or moments I could include.
3. Suggest a hook or opening line for my strongest angle.
4. Remind me what to avoid (generic praise, listing achievements, sounding like someone else).
Tone: reflective and specific, not braggy.