For years, students and parents have focused on grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities as the main pillars of a strong college application. But there’s a secret weapon that can set a student apart in ways those numbers never could: writing.

Strong writing showcases not just skill with language, but depth of thought, originality, and self-awareness. When I was a student at UC Berkeley, I wrote for the Daily Cal, covering everything from campus protests to rock concerts. I learned quickly that writing wasn’t just about words — it was about making sense of the world and sharing that perspective with others. That habit, developed during college, became a lifelong asset.

In today’s admissions landscape, writing is more critical than ever. As colleges move away from standardized tests and focus on holistic reviews, essays take center stage. A strong essay offers a glimpse into an applicant’s mind: how they think, what they value, and how they interpret their experiences. Unlike a GPA or test score, an essay is by definition unique.

Students often believe they need a dramatic story to impress. In truth, the most memorable essays often emerge from ordinary experiences seen through an insightful lens. For example, a student who covers Friday night football games for the school paper might describe the energy in the stands, the feeling of community, and the quiet determination of players beyond the scoreboard. Another student might write about covering homecoming — the behind-the-scenes planning, the creative float designs, or the unexpected mishaps that reveal human resilience.

Some students write video game reviews for the school paper or a personal blog. A thoughtful analysis of a game’s storytelling, character arcs, or social themes can demonstrate critical thinking and originality. I’ve worked with a student who wrote about the moral choices in his favorite game, tying them to broader questions about ethics and personal responsibility. That essay resonated with admissions readers far more than a list of awards ever could.

Covering school events like spirit week or talent shows also offers rich material. One student I knew wrote about the vulnerability performers show on stage and the courage it takes to share a piece of oneself publicly. That piece not only captured the spirit of the event but also revealed the writer’s empathy and appreciation for others’ bravery, which are traits colleges look for.

Even straightforward news stories, like a feature on a new cafeteria menu or a profile of a beloved teacher, can serve as powerful essay material. A student might explore how a new lunch program highlights food insecurity, or how a teacher’s dedication inspired deeper curiosity. These stories show an ability to look beyond the surface and find meaning in the everyday.

Writing builds confidence and sharpens thinking. Students who learn to express ideas clearly become stronger communicators — a skill that serves them well beyond college applications. The discipline of writing and revising mirrors the intellectual rigor they will face in college.

Parents can encourage this growth early. Support your student in pitching stories to the school paper, starting a blog, or even submitting op-eds to local newspapers. Writing for a real audience — classmates, teachers, or the community — challenges students to consider how their words will be received and to take ownership of their narrative.

When I covered stories at Berkeley, I learned to navigate competing viewpoints and articulate my own perspective — skills that proved invaluable in law school and beyond. Today, as an admissions consultant, I see a clear pattern: students with authentic, practiced voices stand out. They don’t write what they think admissions officers want to hear; they write to understand themselves and connect with others. That honesty cannot be manufactured, and it resonates deeply with readers.

Students who embrace writing often discover unexpected interests. One student began with game reviews and found a passion for narrative design. Another started with sports recaps and discovered an interest in sports journalism. These journeys don’t just strengthen college applications; they shape future goals and identities.

In a world obsessed with metrics and checkboxes, writing remains a deeply human art. It connects us to others and to ourselves. So, if you’re looking for that secret admissions weapon, look no further than the simple act of putting pen to paper — or fingers to keyboard.

Write about what excites you: the roar of the crowd on game night, the emotional arc of a video game character, or the hidden struggles behind a pep rally. Share these stories with your school and community. The habit of writing will not only strengthen your application but also help you discover who you truly are.

Gerald Bradshaw is an international college admissions consultant with Bradshaw College Consulting in Crown Point.