How to Approach the Common App Essay on Questioning or Challenging a Belief

Writing a compelling college application essay is all about showcasing your ability to think critically and reflect deeply. One of the most thought-provoking Common App prompts asks students to:

"Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?"

This prompt is an opportunity to demonstrate intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and the courage to stand up for what you believe in. Admissions officers want to see how you engage with complex ideas and how your perspective has evolved over time.

In the example essay below, you’ll see how a student tackled this prompt by sharing a personal experience that highlights their ability to question, reflect, and grow. Pay attention to how the story unfolds, what prompted their thinking, and the ultimate outcome of their challenge.

Building Robots, Bridging Differences

In my junior year, I embarked on a challenging journey as part of my school’s robotics team. The thrill of designing and constructing a robot from scratch was matched only by the thought of competing against other schools. However, during our third week into the project, what should have been an exhilarating experience turned into a rather frustrating ordeal. We found ourselves embroiled in heated discussions about the design — precisely, the type of motor we should use. I strongly believed that a specific motor would best suit our needs. My teammate, however, adamantly insisted that a different motor would be more effective. What should have been a creative collaboration quickly escalated into a clash of opinions, breeding an atmosphere of reluctance and discouragement.

As tensions flared, I observed a critical shift in the dynamics of our team. Creativity stifled, the enthusiasm we had at the beginning dwindled. Our project stagnated as we remained stuck in our respective positions, unwilling to budge. It was in these moments of silence and avoidance that my perspective began to transform. I recalled a comment from another teammate who noted that every idea has its merits and deserves consideration. This planted a seed in my mind, prompting me to challenge the commonly held belief that conflict is detrimental to progress. Why not explore the differences rather than shy away from them?

With this newfound perspective, I proposed that we hold an open discussion to air our differing opinions without judgment. It was a risk. Would my teammates embrace the suggestion, or would it further entrench the divide? To my surprise, they welcomed the idea. The meeting sparked cathartic conversations, where each member felt empowered to express their perspective. We laid out the strengths and weaknesses of both motor types. As we communicated openly, I realized that neither of our ideas was truly flawed; rather, we needed to synthesize our concepts to create a more effective solution.

The breakthrough came when we considered merging the features of both motor types. By integrating aspects from my preference and those of my teammate, we developed a hybrid design that outperformed our individual ideas. This collaborative effort not only advanced our project but also restored the team’s morale. We had gone from a dwindling group to a well-oiled machine, united by a fresh prototype.

What struck me throughout this experience was more than just the improved design; it was the realization that conflict, when approached thoughtfully, can serve as a catalyst for innovation. I emerged from the project with a deeper understanding of teamwork. The belief that harmony is the only way to ensure productivity eroded, replaced by the recognition that diversity of thought fosters creativity and problem-solving. Our robot was not only a testament to mechanical prowess but also a reflection of the complexity and beauty of collaborative work.

The lessons I learned have since heightened my appreciation for differing perspectives in all facets of life, including academics, friendships, and community engagement. I now value each viewpoint as an essential component of the bigger picture, especially in an ever-diversifying world.