essay about i am unique

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The “What Makes You Unique?” Essay

By Eric Eng

Checking for typographical errors in an essay.

The college application process is a journey of self-discovery, reflection, and articulation of one’s identity. The “what-makes-you-unique” essay is a pivotal opportunity to express who you are and what you bring to the table.

This essay is more than just a written document; it’s a window into your soul, a chance to convey your individuality, and a platform to showcase what makes you unique. It’s not about boasting or trying to impress with grand achievements; it’s about honesty, introspection, and the courage to share your true self with the admissions committee.

Why Is the “What-Makes-You-Unique” Essay Important?

In a sea of qualified applicants, the “what-makes-you-unique” essay serves as a distinguishing factor that sets you apart. Colleges and universities are not merely looking for high grades or impressive extracurriculars; they are seeking individuals who will contribute something special to their community.

What makes you unique is not just a catchphrase; it’s a question that invites you to delve into your passions, values, and the very essence of who you are. This essay is your chance to demonstrate how your unique perspective, experiences, and aspirations align with the institution’s mission and how you will enrich the campus culture.

Understanding the purpose of uniqueness in college applications

The concept of uniqueness in college applications goes beyond mere differentiation. It’s about showcasing your authentic self and how your individuality will contribute to the diverse tapestry of the college community.

Understanding what makes you unique requires a deep exploration of your interests, strengths, and the values that guide your life. It’s not about trying to fit a mold or conforming to what you think the college wants to see.

Instead, it’s about embracing your true self and articulating how your uniqueness will add value to the educational environment. This understanding guides the writing process, ensuring that your essay resonates with sincerity and relevance.

How do you write an essay about yourself?

How does one go about writing an essay about themselves? We get it. It’d be that boasting about oneself isn’t your thing, or that you just prefer to keep your personal anecdotes to yourself. Both of these are perfectly valid reasons.

a female student studying with her laptop and looking at the camera

But if you are honest about who you are and share your experiences, you may demonstrate to prospective colleges and universities, and even scholarship sponsors, who you are and why you ought to be given the coveted spot . When you are writing an essay about yourself, keep in mind the following points:

Make a List of Questions

After you have finished reading the scholarship essay prompt, take a moment to collect your thoughts and create a list of several questions that you are able to answer and that are connected to the main question posed in the essay prompt.

Let’s imagine the major question that prompts you to write your essay asks, “What were the obstacles or problems that you had to work hard to overcome?” The more specific inquiries could be anything along the lines of:

What is your background?

What makes you unique in terms of overcoming challenges? What’s your greatest accomplishment? How did you get there? How have previous challenges influenced your goals?

Consider each of these questions a little provocation on its own. They assist you in describing your tale and answer the main essay prompt with more details than you would be able to provide if you simply responded to the prompt without having a plan in place.

Conceptualize and Outline

After you’ve thought about the more specific questions, it’s time to come up with some replies. Take some time to respond to each of the mini-prompts, and for your convenience, you can either open a document on your computer or get out a pen and paper.

Arrange your answers in the following order:

Intro to the main essay prompt.
Answer about 3 mini-prompt questions.
To conclude, rewrite your response to the primary essay prompt, including a synopsis of how you addressed the supplementary essay questions.

You will be able to keep on topic and directly respond to the prompt with the assistance of this organization. Outlining can also help you be strategic about word count restriction because you can compartmentalize words within the mini-prompt questions/subtopics.

Be Vulnerable

In your essay, don’t be hesitant to allow your personality, including your skills, struggles, and personal tales, to show through.

Scholarship and admissions committees absolutely adore it when applicants demonstrate an awareness of either their own personal shortcomings or the ways in which they have developed as a result of the experiences they have had.

The best stories can be told through writing that is sincere.

Utilize Personal Examples

The essay is going to be all about you, you need to make sure that your response is as detailed as it can be!

Avoid making broad statements like “I’m really good at music” or “I’m really good at everything.” Rather than that, you should focus on making statements that are more individualized (for example, “My fourth-grade teacher Ms. Matay really pushed me to pursue my passion in the clarinet”). Your own specific examples are what will set your scholarship application essay apart from the thousands of others that have been submitted.

Write in the First Person

Since you are the one narrating what makes you unique, you should write it from your point of view. You can tell your story in narrative form. You are able to submit a summary of what you discovered from your various encounters.

No matter how you decide to respond to the question, we advise you to write in an active voice and make frequent use of the pronouns “I” and “me” throughout your essay.

Try to discuss more but stick to the topic

The majority of students are concerned about bragging too much about themselves in their essays, but we say go for it! This is your moment to shine, so make the most of it by highlighting your previous successes and qualities.

Young woman using a laptop while sitting.

Check over your essay to make certain that you are maintaining an informative tone and that you are staying on the topic at all times. (Brag about yourself when you’re answering the essay prompt; don’t just list random things about yourself that have nothing to do with each other but are remarkable!)

Show Personality

Given that this essay is all about you, it is important to convey your own message of what makes you unique. You are allowed to make light of the situation if you are the class clown. If you’re the type of person who wears their feelings on their sleeve, don’t be scared to show how you feel.

Making an effort to convey who you are as a person will have a significant impact on the panel deciding whether or not to grant you admission or a scholarship.

Know Your Audience

Always do your homework on the organization offering the scholarship before applying for it. This may not necessarily mean that you need to write an essay worthy of a Pulitzer nomination, but you need to be conscious of including vital information about the service or college in your essay.

Furthermore, highlight what sets them apart from other providers or colleges and what motivated you to choose them. For instance, many different scholarships are supported by private businesses in the form of product sales. You should probably make some sort of mention of those items in your essay.

Edit constantly

Checking your work again should be the final step in responding to the prompt for your essay. Even one misspelling can be distracting and make the people providing the scholarships scratch their heads while they are reading the essay. We can’t stress this enough, check for typos . In addition to checking for typos and grammatical mistakes, when you proofread, you should also examine whether the structure of the sentence or paragraph makes sense.

Are you skipping the appropriate paragraphs at the appropriate times? Are you able to effectively signpost your primary ideas by utilizing topic sentences? Does the essay read smoothly?

Also, take into consideration the following “larger” structural problems. You should also consider getting the opinion of a close friend, a member of your family, a teacher, or a guidance counselor regarding your essay. They might notice something that you missed the first time, and if they do, it could be something that truly helps your writing.

What are some ideas I could use in my personal essay?

Few people are aware of the ways in which they are unique. Because of nature, each individual human might have their own set of characteristics that are distinctive. If you are the kind of student who keeps to themselves in the classroom, always turns in their work on time, and leads a seemingly typical life, it may be difficult to appreciate how exceptional you truly are.

Having said that, everybody is odd in their own way. It is important to make sure that you ask yourself questions in order to produce the greatest possible essay. The questions will take you to the answers, which will reveal your true self. The following are some points to think about.

Where and with whom do you live?
What was your childhood like and how does it affect your life today?
What makes you unique as a family member?
What languages can you speak?
How committed are you to your religion?

If you are having trouble identifying the possible distinguishing characteristics that you possess, you can try the following:

Hear your friends out
Ask your classmates to describe you
Note down everything you know about yourself

What Are the Best Practices for Revising?

Revising your “what-makes-you-unique” essay is not merely a process of correcting errors; it’s an opportunity to refine your message, enhance your voice, and ensure that your unique qualities shine through. The best practices for revising involve a combination of self-review and external feedback, focusing on both content and form.

Young woman using a laptop in a library.

Seeking feedback from teachers, peers, or mentors

One of the most effective ways to elevate your essay is to seek feedback from those who know you well and those who have expertise in writing. Teachers, peers, or mentors can provide valuable perspectives on what makes you unique and how you’ve articulated it in your essay.

They can identify areas where your uniqueness may not be fully expressed or where additional examples or explanations might enhance your narrative. This collaborative process not only enriches your essay but also fosters a deeper understanding of yourself, as you see your unique qualities reflected through the eyes of others.

Reviewing for clarity, coherence, and grammar

An essay that explores what makes you unique must be clear, coherent, and grammatically correct to effectively convey your message. Clarity ensures that your unique traits and experiences are understood, coherence ensures that your ideas flow logically, and proper grammar ensures that your writing is professional and polished.

Reviewing your essay with these principles in mind requires careful reading and a critical eye. It may involve reorganizing paragraphs, rewriting sentences, or fine-tuning word choices. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that your unique story is told in a way that engages the reader and leaves a lasting impression.

Avoiding clichés and overused phrases

To truly capture what makes you unique, your writing must be fresh and original. Clichés and overused phrases can dilute your message and make your essay feel generic. Avoiding these pitfalls requires a conscious effort to express your unique qualities in a way that is genuine and distinctive.

Instead of relying on familiar expressions, strive to find your own voice and articulate your uniqueness in a way that is true to you. This doesn’t mean you have to be overly creative or unconventional; it simply means being authentic and thoughtful in your word choices.

By avoiding clichés and overused phrases, you ensure that your essay stands out, not because it’s flashy or extravagant, but because it’s a true reflection of what makes you unique.

How Can You Make Your Essay Stand Out Even More?

In the competitive landscape of college admissions, making your essay stand out is paramount. While articulating what makes you unique is the core of the essay, there are additional strategies to elevate your writing and make it truly memorable.

These strategies go beyond mere content and delve into the art of storytelling, the connection to broader themes, and the alignment with the college’s values.

Adding creative elements or a unique writing style

Creativity is not just about artistic expression; it’s about finding novel ways to convey what makes you unique. Adding creative elements or a unique writing style to your essay can transform it from a mere statement of facts into a compelling narrative.

Whether it’s through metaphor, imagery, or a distinctive voice, these creative touches add depth and texture to your story. They allow you to express your uniqueness in a way that goes beyond mere description, capturing the essence of who you are in a manner that is both engaging and insightful.

This creative approach not only enhances your essay but also reflects your ability to think outside the box and approach challenges with innovation and originality.

Connecting your uniqueness to broader societal or community themes

Your uniqueness is not an isolated trait; it’s part of a larger context that includes your community, society, and the world at large. Connecting what makes you unique to broader societal or community themes adds a layer of relevance and significance to your essay.

It shows that you are not just self-aware but also socially aware, recognizing how your unique qualities relate to larger issues or values. Whether it’s a commitment to social justice, a passion for environmental stewardship, or a dedication to community service, linking your uniqueness to these broader themes creates a powerful narrative that resonates with both personal authenticity and social responsibility.

Demonstrating how your uniqueness will contribute to the college community

Colleges and universities are not just looking for students with high grades or impressive resumes; they are looking for individuals who will enrich their community.

Demonstrating how what makes you unique will contribute to the college community is a critical aspect of your essay. It’s about showing how your unique perspective, talents, or values align with the institution’s mission and how you will actively contribute to campus life.

Whether it’s through leadership, collaboration, or innovation, articulating how your uniqueness will positively impact the college community creates a compelling argument for your admission.

Inspiring confidence in the application process

The college application process can be daunting, filled with uncertainty and anxiety. The “what-makes-you-unique” essay, however, is an opportunity to take control, express yourself with clarity and confidence, and make a compelling case for your admission.

By focusing on what makes you unique, you shift the narrative from trying to meet external expectations to expressing your authentic self. This approach not only enhances your essay but also inspires confidence in the application process. It shows that you are not just seeking to fit in but to stand out, contribute something special to the college community, and pursue a path that reflects your unique identity and potential.

This confidence is not just about believing in your ability to write a great essay; it’s about believing in your ability to make a meaningful impact, pursue your dreams, and create a future that is uniquely yours.

The journey of crafting a “what-makes-you-unique” essay is more than a mere exercise in writing; it’s a profound exploration of self, an opportunity to articulate your identity, values, and vision. Through this process, you not only answer the question of what makes you unique but also create a narrative that resonates with authenticity, insight, and purpose.

This essay is not just a gateway to college admission; it’s a reflection of who you are and what you aspire to be. By embracing the strategies and principles outlined in this article, you can craft an essay that stands out, not merely for its eloquence or creativity but for its truth, relevance, and impact.

Get Started With Your Scholarship Essay

It’s time to get started on that stellar application essay you’ll send off to dozens of universities. In order to help you achieve your goal of enrolling in the prominent university of your choice and subsequently pursuing your dream profession, AdmissionSight is here to help.

AdmissionSight has more than a decade of expertise assisting students just like you gain entry to their dream schools. Don’t hesitate to contact us right away so that we can set up your free initial consultation.

Want to assess your chances of admission? Take our FREE chances calculator today!

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36 Smart Answers to “What Makes You Unique?”

By Status.net Editorial Team on May 24, 2023 — 9 minutes to read

Interviewers ask the question “What makes you unique?” to determine how you stand out from other candidates: they want to know what specific qualities, skills, or experiences you possess that will bring success to the position they are filling. This question helps interviewers assess your self-awareness , confidence , and ability to effectively communicate your strengths .

Related: “What Sets You Apart”: Smart Answers

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Identifying Your Unique Qualities

To answer this question:

Start by reviewing the job description and pinpointing key skills or requirements for the position.
Identify your own experiences or qualities that align with these key attributes.
Focus on the aspects of your background, personality, or life experiences that make you uniquely suited for the job.

Emphasize aspects of your experience and skills that align with the position’s requirements, while also highlighting personal or life experiences that set you apart from other candidates.

36 Sample Answers to “What Makes You Unique?”

When asked, “What makes you unique?” you could reply: “I have a strong ability to identify problems and implement innovative solutions quickly. In my previous job, I was responsible for improving our customer support process, which led to a 30% increase in customer satisfaction. This shows my drive for excellence and my determination to always seek improvements.”
You might want to mention your enthusiasm as a unique trait: “I am extremely passionate about the work I do, and I bring this energy to every task I undertake. My enthusiasm positively influences my team members, and I have found it helps us achieve our goals more effectively. My passion drives me to consistently perform above expectations.”
Showcase your accomplishments as a factor that sets you apart: “My unique combination of skills led me to be recognized as the top salesperson at my previous company for three consecutive years. I expertly balance relationship building with a focus on meeting targets to drive growth and ensure success.”
You could emphasize your adaptability: “I am highly adaptable and can comfortably work in various environments or industry sectors. For example, I have experience in sales, marketing, and customer service, which has provided me with a well-rounded understanding of different business areas.”
Highlighting your dedication to lifelong learning might impress interviewers: “I’m committed to continually developing my skills and knowledge in my field. I consistently attend conferences, read industry publications, and take courses to stay updated on the latest trends and practices. This commitment allows me to bring fresh ideas and perspectives to my work.”
Perhaps you want to mention how you balance work and personal life: “I pride myself on maintaining an excellent work-life balance, allowing me to stay focused and productive during work hours but also having time to pursue personal interests and hobbies. This gives me a healthy perspective and positively impacts my overall performance.”
You could speak to your ability to communicate effectively: “My strong communication skills and ability to relate to people from diverse backgrounds make me highly effective in team environments. I have a proven track record of resolving conflicts and fostering collaboration, which makes our team projects successful.”
Draw attention to your ability as a mentor: “I enjoy mentoring and sharing my knowledge with others, which benefits both my personal growth and the development of my team members. I have a history of empowering and guiding colleagues to help them reach their full potential.”
Your resourcefulness could be a point of interest: “I am resourceful and creative when faced with challenges or limited resources. This enables me to find unique solutions and operate efficiently, regardless of constraints.”
Emphasizing your work ethic: “I’m known for my strong work ethic and dedication to always putting forth my best effort. I take pride in consistently delivering high-quality results and have built a reputation as someone my team can rely on to execute tasks on-time and accurately.”
Showcase your leadership skills: “I have developed strong leadership skills throughout my career, allowing me to effectively guide teams and make strategic decisions. My ability to inspire and motivate those around me helps to cultivate a positive and productive work environment.”
Or, you could focus on your attention to detail: “My meticulous attention to detail allows me to quickly spot errors and discrepancies that others might miss, ensuring the highest quality of work. This has saved my team considerable time and effort, as well as prevented potential issues.”
More examples: “My dedication to learning new skills sets me apart. I constantly seek opportunities to improve my expertise and apply that knowledge to my work.”
“I bring a unique combination of marketing and design experience, which allows me to approach projects with creative and effective strategies.”
“My bilingual background allows me to communicate seamlessly with diverse teams and clients, ensuring successful collaboration on projects.”
“I am an avid problem-solver who enjoys tackling complex challenges, and I have a track record of finding innovative solutions that drive success.”
“My exceptional time-management skills help me juggle multiple tasks without compromising on quality or deadlines, especially when working under pressure.”
“My strong interpersonal skills have allowed me to create and maintain great working relationships with coworkers and clients, fostering a positive work environment.”
“I pride myself on being very adaptable, making it easier for me to adjust to new situations, teams, and roles within a company.”
“As a lifelong volunteer, I bring a strong sense of community and empathy, which has aided me in understanding the unique needs of clients and coworkers.”
“Through my experience in diverse industries, I gained a well-rounded perspective that allows me to approach tasks and projects from different angles.”
“As a self-starter, I am proactive in identifying areas for improvement and taking the necessary steps to ensure the success of the team and the company as a whole.”
“My resilience and ability to bounce back from setbacks have allowed me to learn from my mistakes and continuously grow both personally and professionally.”
“I have a knack for storytelling, which helps me present complex ideas in a compelling way, making it more accessible and engaging for my audience.”
“ My background in both marketing and data analytics sets me apart from other candidates. This allows me to effectively analyze marketing data while also devising creative strategies for driving customer engagement.”
“As someone who has worked remotely for several years, I have developed strong communication and time management skills that would make me an asset to this team.”
“I am fluent in three languages, which makes me an asset in providing customer support to a diverse range of clients.”
“I am a certified yoga instructor, and I believe in incorporating mindfulness and stress reduction techniques into my work environment, leading to increased productivity and teamwork among colleagues.”
“I have an extensive background in nonprofit management, which includes grant writing, budgeting, and strategic planning. This experience makes me uniquely qualified to help grow and maintain the financial stability of the organization.”
“I have a strong track record of building rapport with clients in my previous sales role, consistently exceeding sales targets and receiving high satisfaction ratings.”
“With a background in both graphic design and writing, I have developed a creative approach to problem-solving that allows me to generate innovative solutions to business challenges.”
“As a military veteran, I have learned the importance of discipline, teamwork, and adaptability. These traits make me a valuable addition to any team.”
“I have experience working with both children and adults with special needs, making me uniquely qualified to meet the diverse needs of clients in this occupational therapy role.”
“In the past, I have taken on several leadership roles, engaging in volunteer work, and mentoring relationships. These experiences have helped me develop strong leadership and communication skills.”
“Having completed a coding bootcamp, I am skilled in multiple programming languages and have a strong grasp of best practices. This knowledge allows me to quickly adapt and contribute to various projects.”
“I have a strong background in both technical support and customer service, which enables me to give clients a seamless support experience while effectively troubleshooting and resolving any issues they encounter.”

Personality Traits

Adaptability.

Showcasing your adaptability can help set you apart. When asked “What makes you unique?” consider sharing an example of your ability to adapt quickly to new situations. For example, you could say, “I embrace change in the workplace and am always eager to learn new skills. In my previous role, my team had to switch to remote work unexpectedly, and I quickly became an expert in using remote collaboration tools to keep the team on track.”

Empathy is a valuable trait to demonstrate during an interview. A good answer that highlights empathy could be, “I’ve found that my ability to empathize with others allows me to build strong relationships with team members and clients. I actively listen to their concerns and strive to understand their experiences, which has helped me adapt my communication style to make others feel comfortable.”

Related: Examples of Empathy (and 38 Empathy Statements)

Enthusiasm can make a significant impact on a hiring manager. When answering what makes you unique, use an example that illustrates your excitement about the role, company, or industry. For example, you could say, “I am genuinely enthusiastic about my work and continuously seek opportunities to expand my knowledge. I recently completed a certification course in digital marketing, even though it wasn’t required for my previous position, because I wanted to deepen my expertise.”

Conflict Resolution

Conflict resolution skills are an essential aspect of effective teamwork. Prove your ability to handle difficult situations by sharing an example from a previous job. For example, “I have a strong ability to mediate conflicts and maintain positive team dynamics. In my last job, two coworkers were disagreeing over a project that was causing delays. I stepped in, listened to their concerns, and facilitated a solution that satisfied both parties and got the project back on track.”

Related: How to Choose a Conflict Management Style? [5 Styles with Examples]

By focusing on adaptability, empathy, enthusiasm, or conflict resolution you’ll demonstrate qualities that a hiring manager is likely to find attractive. Use examples from your experience to showcase these traits, and be confident in presenting yourself as a unique candidate.

Skills and Abilities

Technical skills.

When answering “What makes you unique?” in a job interview, you can highlight your technical skills that set you apart. For example:

“I have mastered HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and have successfully built several websites from scratch. This experience makes me a strong candidate for web development roles.”
“I am a certified project manager with a track record of completing projects on time and within budget. This demonstrates my ability to lead a team and ensure success.”
“My experience with data analysis and visualization tools like Tableau and Excel have allowed me to create impactful reports and make data-driven decisions.”

Soft Skills

You should also emphasize your soft skills which contribute to your uniqueness.

“I have excellent time-management skills and can juggle multiple tasks simultaneously. I believe this ability allows me to perform well in high-pressure environments.”
“My communication skills help me effectively convey ideas to colleagues and clients alike. I think this makes me an asset in collaborative projects.”
“I pride myself on my problem-solving abilities, which enables me to approach complex situations with clarity and determination. This skill helps me excel in challenging roles.”

Try to be specific about the skills and abilities you possess and how they contribute to your uniqueness in the workplace. Providing real-life examples of how you’ve applied those skills in your work history can make your answer more convincing and memorable to the interviewer.

The key to answering this question effectively is to focus on your personal strengths and abilities, providing specific examples that demonstrate how your unique qualities will benefit the company. By doing so, you’ll leave a lasting impression and increase your chances of landing the job. Good luck!

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10 things that make each person a unique, one-of-a-kind individual

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illustration of red stick figure among gray stick figures showing the concept of being a unique person

Every single person is a unique puzzle composed of pieces of personality, life experiences, knowledge, and emotions.

Every person has their own perspective and world view, largely fueled by the way they’ve experienced and navigated the world.

Regardless of the exact path one’s life has taken, the journey leaves its mark on the person and shapes the way they interact with the world today.

However, we are not condemned to a particular outcome.

The qualities that make every person a unique, interesting individual can be honed, improved upon, and made to grow as we continue our life’s journey.

Here are just some of the things that make YOU unique in this world.

What does it mean to be unique?

To be unique means to be a rare and precious gem in a sea of sameness.

It is to stand out in a crowd, to be noticed for something that sets you apart from the rest.

It is the feeling of being one-of-a-kind, of having a distinct identity that cannot be replicated or duplicated.

To be unique is to embrace your individuality, to celebrate your quirks and flaws, and to recognize that they are what make you truly special.

It is to be unapologetically yourself, to follow your own path, and to forge your own destiny.

In a world where conformity is often rewarded, being unique is a bold and courageous act of rebellion. It is a reminder that we are all different, and that our differences are what make us beautiful.

10 Unique Things About You

1. your personality.

An individual’s personality is something that is molded from the moment they are born right through to the present moment.

Every good and bad experience, every triumph and failure, every moment of strength and weakness, every bit of knowledge and wisdom we acquire…

…these guide us in how we move through the world.

No one else can or will have your exact collection of knowledge, experiences, and perceptions that causes you to be who you are.

No one else is going to respond to what you’ve experienced with the same emotions and thoughts that you had.

No one is going to make the same choices that you make.

Your personality is uniquely your own.

2. Your Attitude

A person’s attitude dictates how they perceive life and the actions of the people around them.

Both a positive and negative attitude can be infectious, influencing the people around you and pulling them in the general direction of what you are putting into the world.

That’s the foundation of self-help and motivational materials that talk about how your attitude can really limit what you can accomplish in life.

Because, the truth is that people with a positive attitude tend to shy away from those with more neutral or negative attitudes.

Your attitude is something that is formed by your emotional landscape unless you make an active choice to craft it into something better and more conducive to a happier present and future.

3. Your Experiences

A person’s past and future experiences have, without a doubt, the greatest influence on shaping who they are as a unique individual.

Every experience helps us determine how we will end up interacting with the world and other people in it.

People with negative experiences may find themselves feeling anxious and defensive when faced with situations similar to those in which they got hurt or when trying to avoid future harm.

And people seek out positive experiences to help improve their understanding of the world, the people in it, and how to best pursue a happy and content life.

That doesn’t mean that you are condemned to be held hostage by your experiences.

Certain negative experiences often contain shreds of wisdom that you can use to find a better path, make better decisions , and pursue a more positive future.

4. Your Habits

A habit is a thing we do with great regularity. The habits we have inform and determine what aspects of our unique person we develop.

A bad habit of eating unhealthy food and not exercising is going to cause lethargy and poor physical health.

A good habit of brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing is going to keep your mouth healthy and pain-free.

Forming habits such as reading, meditation, exercise, or trying new things can improve mental health and well-being.

Carl Jung famously said, “You are what you do, not what you say you’ll do.” And his words largely speak to how our actions and habits determine the person we become.

5. Your Creativity

Creativity is an interesting thing because there are so many different kinds.

You have a variety of arts that flex the creative side of your brain, from painting and drawing to dance and singing.

But then you also have creativity in other forms, like developing efficient systems, building a bookcase with your own hands, or planning an aesthetically pleasing landscape.

Every person has their own unique, creative gifts which are influenced by their own vision of what beauty is.

Sometimes, beauty isn’t a complicated thing. Sometimes creativity and beauty is simple effectiveness.

6. Your Perspective

Can anyone else in the world see the world exactly as you do?

No one else has lived your twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, three hundred and sixty-five days a year.

No one else has experienced life in the same way that you have.

No one else has the exact same body of knowledge that you have.

A person’s perspective is uniquely their own.

That’s why it’s so important to be open to other people’s opinions and ideas…

…not necessarily to accept them as right or wrong, but to help fill in the blanks and continue to develop your unique perception of the world.

An exchange of ideas with the right person on your perceptions of the world can unlock realization and wisdom, so don’t shy away from listening to or sharing your own perspectives and opinions.

7. Your Taste

What do you like? What do you dislike?

Though we can find common ground with other people on what constitutes quality or beauty, your tastes are largely a unique facet of your personality.

A person’s tastes will influence many of their choices in life, whether it’s what food to eat or what type of people they want to have a relationship with.

Exploring the different tastes of the world, in all their forms, is an excellent way to expand one’s horizons, learn new things, and continue to develop as a person.

An open mind and a willingness to embrace the tastes of others can introduce you to so many great things.

8. Your Goals

A person’s goals generally guide how they spend their time, energy, and effort.

The areas of life and endeavors where we invest our time, energy, and effort are going to be the things we have in mind most often, which will influence what we give back and take from the world.

Short, medium, and long-term goals provide us direction and motivation when we feel lost or like we are stumbling on our path.

Anyone can get more out of their life, grow as a person, and find clearer direction by finding some goals to work toward.

Journaling is a great companion to a goal-oriented, growth mindset , because it’s a place to speak your mind freely, map out exactly what you want, and develop a plan to get there.

9. Your Hobbies

What do you like to do for fun?

It’s a common question that people use as an icebreaker, and it speaks to the type of person you are.

Hobbies certainly don’t define a person, but what you spend your time doing informs others about what kind of person you are.

Do you like puzzles? Binge-watching shows on Netflix? Sports? Volunteer work? Gardening? Cooking? Gaming?

All of these things say something about you as a unique individual, your values, and how you seek happiness or meaning in life.

That also means that trying out and adopting new hobbies can help facilitate growth and personal development.

10. Your Passion

Passion is a magnificent part of the human experience.

There are so many things to be passionate about – art, nature, and humanity to name a few.

Passions can provide much needed direction toward a goal or experience that will allow us to leave our own unique mark on the world.

The things that stir the deepest emotions in one’s soul can speak to a higher calling to do something greater than oneself, even if they might be in a mental or emotional place where things aren’t that good at the moment.

Understanding your passions can help you find a direct, distinct path that is guided by your values and unique perception of the world.

Don’t let them cool down to nothing. Stoke and stir those flames from time to time, so they continue to burn and illuminate your path.

We are all unique individuals. We all have something unique and valuable to contribute to the world. It just may take some time to find that thing you are meant to contribute.

It’s The Mix That Matters Most

There will be individual elements of you as a person that you share with others.

You might enjoy the same cuisines, share hobbies, or hold similar beliefs or opinions to other people.

What makes a person different to all others is not these things by themselves, but the combination of these things that only you have.

You are unique. There’s no doubt about it.

How to come up with specific examples of unique things about you.

Coming up with specific examples of what makes you unique can be a daunting task, but it is also a powerful exercise in self-discovery.

Start by reflecting on your life experiences, your passions, and your talents. Think about the moments that have shaped you into the person you are today, and the skills that you have developed along the way.

Consider the things that you enjoy doing, the things that come naturally to you, and the things that set you apart from others.

Maybe you have a talent for playing an unusual musical instrument, or you have a passion for collecting vintage clothing. Perhaps you have overcome a significant challenge, or you have a unique perspective on a particular issue.

Whatever it is that makes you stand out, embrace it, celebrate it, and share it with the world.

Remember, your uniqueness is what makes you special, and there is no one else in the world quite like you.

Why we should embrace our differences.

We should embrace our differences because they are what make us human. They are the things that make us interesting, unique, and beautiful.

Embracing our differences means accepting ourselves and others for who we are, without judgment or prejudice. It means recognizing that diversity is not a weakness, but a strength.

When we embrace our differences, we open ourselves up to new experiences, perspectives, and ideas. We learn from each other, and we grow as individuals and as a society.

Embracing our differences also means standing up against discrimination and inequality. It means fighting for a world where everyone is valued and respected, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic.

In a world that often tries to make us conform, embracing our differences is a radical act of self-love and acceptance. It is a reminder that we are all unique, and that our differences are what make us truly special.

How to accept yourself and your unique set of characteristics.

Accepting yourself and your unique set of characteristics can be a challenging journey, but it is also one of the most rewarding.

Start by recognizing that you are not perfect, and that is okay. Everyone has flaws and imperfections, and they are what make us human.

Embrace your quirks and idiosyncrasies, and celebrate the things that make you different from others.

Practice self-compassion and kindness, and treat yourself with the same love and respect that you would give to a friend.

Set realistic expectations for yourself, and focus on your strengths and accomplishments, rather than your shortcomings.

Surround yourself with people who support and encourage you, and let go of those who do not.

Finally, remember that self-acceptance is a process, and it takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself, and keep working toward a place of self-love and acceptance.

When you accept yourself and your unique set of characteristics, you open yourself up to a world of possibilities and opportunities, and you become the best version of yourself.

About The Author

Jack Nollan is a mental health writer of 10 years who pairs lived experience with evidence-based information to provide perspectives from the side of the mental health consumer. Jack has lived with Bipolar Disorder and Bipolar-depression for almost 30 years. With hands-on experience as the facilitator of a mental health support group, Jack has a firm grasp of the wide range of struggles people face when their mind is not in the healthiest of places. Jack is an activist who is passionate about helping disadvantaged people find a better path.

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‘I Am Unique’ Essay Sample For Graduate School Application

EssayEdge > Blog > ‘I Am Unique’ Essay Sample For Graduate School Application

You cannot rely on uniqueness to outweigh a mediocre academic record, but it can often give you an edge. Admissions officers are interested in assembling a diverse class of unique perspectives, so you should highlight rather than downplay your differences. To an extent, all types of diversity will help, but you should aim to focus on how unique aspects of your background will enable you to contribute to the academic community.

The purpose of this lesson is to show you examples of how other people capitalized on their unique qualities. When it comes to your own essay, only you can identify the optimal strategy for making yourself stand out. One way to start is to look over your answers to the brainstorming questions and try to find aspects of your background that separate you from your peers. Ultimately, however, what will make the difference is your ability to assess yourself honestly and thoughtfully.

The examples that follow are not meant to be exhaustive. Rather, they represent the efforts of particular individuals to recognize the unique elements of their background and use them to their advantage. You should notice that these unique elements are often directly related to their academic interests, but can still be tied effectively to the applicants’ goals or integrated with their character and background.

This applicant starts by noting the diversity of his ethnic and religious background. When mentioning such points, you should not assume that such diversity is an end in itself. Rather, you should show how your background and culture have shaped your perspective and given you something unique to offer. This applicant does a good job of noting how Zoroastrianism has given him guiding principles, but he never follows through to discuss concrete examples. This essay would have benefited from more details to show his diversity in more tangible terms.

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This applicant’s story is fascinating, at times harrowing, and ultimately triumphant. From committed social activism to drug and alcohol addiction to a reengagement with the world, the author pulls no punches in telling his unique tale. While he does not whitewash his experience with drugs and alcohol, notice how he situates it in a larger context, showing both how it made him oblivious to the things he really cared about (Third World injustices) and how his reintroduction to those things helped him pull himself out of his downward spiral. In doing so, he demonstrates both a strong social conscience and a dedication to his beliefs. Additionally, his story makes him very hard for an admissions committee to forget. Just be careful that any discussion of past mistakes or difficulties leads to an indubitably positive conclusion.

This applicant shows that you do not need to be a true one-of-a-kind to demonstrate uniqueness in the admissions process. In fact, what sets him apart is a rather typical job in the computer industry. What makes his application unique, however, is that he is applying to a geological sciences program. His interest in mathematical modeling gives him a novel area of specialization to offer to the intellectual diversity of the program.

Finally, this applicant shows that a personal, revealing story can be enough to set someone apart. By recounting a particular episode that sparked her epiphany as a writer, she gives us an in-depth look at her unique approach to her craft. Again, this essay does not discuss exotic experiences, but instead succeeds by painting a detailed, deeply personal portrait that no one else could have written.

This set of samples isn’t supposed to show what a good paper should look like. The papers presented are different and represent individual approaches to graduate essay writing. Check them to boost your own inspiration and tackle this writing faster. EssayEdge is an admission essay editing service graduate applicants must use before submitting their papers.

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A Simple Way to Answer “What Makes You Unique?” in Your Job Search (Plus Examples!)

Imagine a hiring manager asks you in an interview: “Tell me, what makes you unique?” Does your mind immediately jump to some random fun fact about yourself—like how you can eat a whole jar of pickles in one sitting or your passion for arm-knitting blankets?

That can’t be what they’re looking for, can it? (Spoiler: It’s not.)

This doozy of an interview question can throw off any skilled candidate—don’t let that be you! Here’s everything you need to know about why this question gets asked, and how you can totally nail your answer. Plus, what to do when you encounter this question in an online application (because it happens).

Why Hiring Managers Ask “What Makes You Unique?”

Muse career coach and CareerSchooled founder Al Dea puts it plainly: “They genuinely want to know the answer.” In other words, they’re not actually trying to trip you up.

“Most times hiring managers are going to be looking at multiple candidates for a role, and generally speaking they’re probably going to...have to make some hard decisions,” he explains. “So being able to tease out what separates candidates is important.”

That means this is your prime opportunity to make yourself stand out from the pack—especially when the pack looks awfully similar on paper.

It’s also a simple test of your self-awareness and communication skills. “If a candidate can provide a very strong and compelling answer, it demonstrates to the hiring manager that the candidate…has done the thought and reflection that’s needed to understand what it would take for them to do the role and why they’re best positioned for it,” says Dea.

Basically, if you have no idea what makes you special—or you do but you can’t communicate it properly—how in the world is the hiring manager supposed to believe you’re a valuable hire?

How to Answer “What Makes You Unique?” in an Interview

You’ll need to figure out what your value proposition is and how to articulate it to the interviewer. Here’s how:

1. Consider the Company/Role/Hiring Manager

The most important thing to remember is when the hiring manager asks, “What makes you unique?” they actually want to know what makes you unique in the context of this job. So it’s important to “understand what that company, what that specific role, what that specific hiring manager is trying to optimize for,” says Dea.

The easiest place to start, he says, is the job description . What would you be doing in the role? What kind of person are they looking for? What skills or experiences do they emphasize as must-haves or would-love-to-haves?

“If you know what the company’s core values are, or the things that are true to them, you need to think about how you fit within that context,” he adds. You can easily pinpoint those by combing their website or social media or doing a quick Google search (or researching them on The Muse! ).

2. Get Outside Input

“Go out and ask five people what your strengths are, and tell them to give you a time where you exemplified that strength,” suggests Dea. You might find some answers more helpful than others, but this initial framework will help you parse together how others see you as unique or valuable.

If you don’t know if you can rely on your network, says Dea, instead ask yourself, “Why do people pick up the phone and call me?” or “What do people come to me for advice on, or help with?”

You can also look at your past performance evaluations. What kind of positive feedback do you consistently get? What are people saying about you at work? Use these as leverage as you move to the next step.

3. Reflect on Your Own

“There are different things that you bring to the job beyond your title and beyond your hard skills,” says career coach Theresa Merrill , so consider what other experiences, soft skills, or expertise you have beyond your direct work history that could make you a good fit for the role or organization.

As an example, Merrill is a career coach who comes not from an HR background but one in sales and marketing. This is what she emphasizes when talking about what makes her unique because it allows her to differentiate herself from coaches that offer similar services in interview or LinkedIn coaching.

4. Gather Proof

“Any type of data point, qualitative or quantitative,” says Dea, takes your response from just OK to great.

For example, explains Merrill, you don’t just want to say “I’m persistent, which makes me great at sales.”

“Demonstrating your persistence is much more powerful than just using that adjective,” she says. So, you’d want to explain how you’ve been persistent in your career and the outcome of that. Did it help you exceed goal? Attract a pool of great clients? Motivate the rest of your team to increase revenue?

5. Put It All Together

Take what you know about the company or role and what you know your strengths are and compare the two: Are there one to two skills that overlap? Those should be the focal points of your answer. You don’t want to just rattle off a laundry list of things that are great about yourself.

Here are a couple good sample responses to show what this looks like in practice:

“What makes me unique is that I basically taught myself animation from scratch. I was immediately drawn to it in college, and with the limited resources available to me, I decided to take matters into my own hands—and that’s the approach I take in all aspects of my work as a video editor. I don’t just wait around for things to happen, and when I can, I’m always eager to step in and take on new projects, pick up new skills, or brainstorm new ideas.”

“I actually started a career in editorial after transitioning from a role in the health and wellness industry to an internship at an online publication. Because I came in as a career changer and ‘started over’ in a more entry-level role, I have direct experience that can easily be applied to writing career advice. I know what readers want, what questions they have, and how they want that advice to be delivered because I was in their shoes, and going through that transition taught me so much about the job search and ignited my passion for helping others find a career path they love like I was able to.”

“I’m uniquely qualified for this role because I’m incredibly organized. And I’m not just saying that—I live for my planner (and my Google Calendar). In my past role as an executive assistant, I was constantly answering calls and responding to hundreds of emails a day, and thanks to my diligence, the CEO never had a missed message or mistake in their schedule.”

6. Tighten It and Practice It

Chances are you won’t nail your pitch after a minute of reading this article and pondering your thoughts. Like any interview question, answering “What makes you unique?” requires some self-reflection, brainstorming, and reiterating.

Merrill recommends “writing it down, scripting it, tightening it, saying it out loud, [and] hearing how it sounds.” The more you practice your response, she states, the more natural (and less rambly) it will seem, and the less flustered you’ll be when the question comes up. Time yourself to make sure it’s no longer than, say, 30 or 60 seconds, and run it by a friend to see what they think.

And if you need a gut check on whether or not your final answer is any good? “If anyone else could say what you’re saying, that is probably a sign that you can strengthen your answer,” says Dea.

(Looking for more interview advice? Read this article on answering other common interview questions you might face.)

How to Answer “What Makes You Unique?” in 150 Characters

You’ll sometimes see in online applications a question like, “In 150 characters or fewer, tell us what makes you unique. Try to be creative and say something that will catch our eye!” Since you’ve only got a sentence or two to make your point, you’ll want to boil your answer down to the essentials: a single strength and how it makes you perfect for this job.

So taking the examples above, here’s how you could condense them to answer the prompt effectively:

I taught myself animation from scratch in college. I don’t just wait for things to happen at work—I proactively and eagerly pursue them.

I started a career in editorial after transitioning from the health industry. Because I was in their shoes, I know what career advice readers need.

I’m incredibly organized and live for my planner—and as a result my old boss never had a missed message or mistake in their schedule.

What Makes You Unique Essays

Essays on the topic of what makes you unique.

One of the most wonderful things about being human is that we are all different. Writing an essay about what makes you unique is a great way to explore yourself and explain what makes you an individual. Additionally, it’s a great way to examine human traits, qualities, and characteristics.

Now, when you’re writing an essay about what makes you unique, you need to choose what your focus will be. For example, you can focus on your personality traits, abilities, opinions, habits, etc. You can also focus on the experiences that have made you different throughout life.

We are all impacted by our experiences and many of them mark a “before” and “after” in our lives. Given that we don’t all have the same exact experiences or the same exact response to those experiences, they make us unique and they help build a distinctive character in one way or another.

Once you know what you want to focus on for your essay on what makes you unique, you must conceptualize and outline your essay. This will help you keep a structure and explore the topic in a way that’s understandable and easy to follow for the reader.

Most importantly, you need to be vulnerable in your essay. Write in the first person and don’t be afraid to use personal examples. Show your personality through your writing to make the essay about what makes you unique a lot more compelling.

The more vivid your examples, the better. They will paint a picture for the reader and make your essay a lot more powerful. Also, keep in mind who your audience is to guide your writing a bit better and make a lasting impression on your readers.

Lastly, don’t forget to edit your essay. When you’re writing about yourself, it’s not difficult to overdo it or hold back to the point when your essay is no longer valuable. Make sure that what you’re writing is relevant and actually serves to explain what makes you unique. Otherwise, it will compromise the quality of your essay.

Use essay examples on this page for inspiration, and start creating your own piece!

Answering the Question of What Makes You Unique

Category: Psychology , Life
Topic: Individual , Personality

Pages: 1 (515 words)

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