How to Tackle this Common App Prompt: “Reflect on a time when they challenged a belief or idea. What prompted you to do so and what was the outcome?”

College admissions officers are looking for students who can critically engage with their surroundings.

This is why the Common App prompt “Reflect on a time when they challenged a belief or idea. What prompted you to do so and what was the outcome?” is so important. It shows college admissions officers that you are an independent thinker who can meaningfully interact with and critique abstract ideas.

Many students misinterpret this prompt. They think they need to write about a time when they changed their mind about something. But that’s not what the prompt is asking.

What the prompt really asks of you is to critically engage with someone else’s ideology and take specific steps to challenge it. In asking this question, college admission officers want to see your maturity of thought and your passion for your beliefs.

Essentially, you need to show them that you can not only engage with your environment but also drive change.

By writing an essay about a time when you challenged a belief or idea, you can show college admissions officers that you are an independent thinker who is not afraid to question the status quo and stand up for what you believe in.

Contact us to learn more about how you can reflect your critical thinking through your application.