Here’s the obvious: describing yourself in three words sounds simple. A bit too simple, perhaps? Pick three words, any words, and you are all set, isn’t it? Anyone who has struggled to face a completely blank page understands that this process is never easy. How exactly does one encapsulate their whole self in just three words?
The prompt (made with grueling considerations by college admission authorities) is deceptively tricky. It’s also an opportunity in disguise. Those three words? Your chance to give admission councils a snapshot of who you are. What you value and how you see the world also gets revealed in the due process. If you do it right, they’ll remember you long after they’ve put down your applications.
Why Three Words Matter
Let’s give it to you straight: the three-word tactic isn’t just a gimmick. Colleges ask this question for a reason.
It’s a snapshot of who you are
Three words forces one to focus on the very essence of their personality. A quick peek into your soul is what you will lend (at least for a little while) to the admissions committee.
It shows self-awareness
Right word choices demonstrates that one knows their capabilities (strengths, values, and what makes them unique).
It’s a creative challenge
Colleges love to see someone who is apart from the norm, since they peruse thousands of applications. Explaining your trio word choices shows off creativity and writing skills.
What Are The Core Words That Describe You In Three Words
It’s a whole process picking the so-called three words. Here’s how to go about it:
Get going with jotting down words that come to mind when thinking of yourself. We’d recommend you not overthink things, just let the ideas come to you. Think about:
- Your personality traits (e.g., curious, resilient, empathetic)
- Your passions and interests (e.g., creative, analytical, adventurous)
- Your values (e.g., honest, loyal, ambitious)
Example List
Creative, determined, curious, compassionate, adventurous, analytical, optimistic, resilient, thoughtful, ambitious.
Narrow it Down
Glance at your list and ask:
- Which words truly define me?
- Which words line up with my story and experiences?
- Which words will stand out?
Cross out the ones that just do not feel uniquely you.
Think about Balance
The three words should work in tandem and paint a picture of who you are as a whole. For example:
Creative, Analytical, and Compassionate shows:
- A mix of creativity and intellect.
Whereas – Adventurous, Resilient, and Optimistic highlights:
- A go-getter attitude and a positive outlook.
Avoid picking three words that are too similar (take, for instance kind, caring, and empathetic). They won’t show your full range and bog down things.
Test them Out
Once you’ve sorted out and finalized the word choices, try out something that most do not. Explain them to a friend or family member. Do they make sense? Do they feel authentically you? If these boxes aren’t ticked off, go back to the drawing board and start the process over again.
Here Is The Best Way To Describe Yourself In Just Three Words
Still stuck? Here are a few examples to get your ideas flowing:
The Lifelong Learner
You are a Curious, Collaborative, Compassionate Person
- Curious: You’re asking questions and wanting to learn more.
- Collaborative: You are a people person who enjoys working with others
- Compassionate: You love people and want to make a difference.
Why this works: This pair demonstrates intellectual curiosity, teamwork, and empathy — attributes colleges seek in a student.
The Dreamer and Doer
Word Choices: Resilient, Ambitious, Creative
- Resilient: You faced challenges and came out the other side, stronger.
- Ambitious: Someone who works hard to achieve their goals.
- Creative: You think outside the box, and always come up with new ideas.
This trio of choices shows your capacity to dream big and remain persistent.
The Explorer with Heart
Choice of Words: Adventurous, Thoughtful, Determined
- Adventurous: Love of trying new things and shattering comfort zones.
- Thoughtful: You are considerate in your actions.
- Determined: You just don’t quit once you’ve set your mind to it.
Why it Works: Shows a quality of boldness and introspection.
How to Explain your three words in your Essay
You can move forward with implementing your selected words as the foundation of your essay composition. Here’s how to do it:
Start with a Hook
Immediately hook the reader with something to capture their attention. For example:
“I would say I’m curious, collaborative and compassionate would be the third, if I had to answer the three words question. But I prefer to look at the words akin to a lens through which I see the world.”
Tell a Story for Each Word
Usage of specific example cannot be overstated (for the purpose of illustrating each word that is). For instance:
Curious: Describe a time you went down a rabbit hole researching something you were passionate about.
Collaborative: Ask about a time you helped bring a group together to reach a shared goal.
Compassionate: Describe a moment in time when you stood up for something you cared about.
Tie it all Together
Finish by linking your three words to your future goals or how they will help you to contribute to the college community. For example:
“I believe that being curious, collaborative and compassionate has defined who I am today and I can’t wait to bring these strengths if selected.” In the classroom, on the field, or in the community, I am ready to make an impact.”
Mistakes to Avoid : Describe Yourself in Three Words
- i) Being too Generic
Descriptors like nice, smart, or funny are too general. Get more creative and choose words that accurately describe who you are.
2. ii) Overloading with Jargon
You are going to sound very awkward if you think that you have to use complex words to prove how smart you are. Make it relatable and real.
3. iii) Forgetting to Explain
Don’t stop at just a listing of your three words; be sure to say why you chose the three words you did and what they mean to you.
It may seem like a cliché to describe yourself in three words, but it’s far from being effortless. Choosing words with meaning and substance will leave a positive impression on the admissions committee.
Our recommendation is to take a step back, explore possibilities, and let your personality flourish.
Now we pass the baton on to you, what three words will you end up going for?
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