Last Updated on 04/29/2026 by Ethan Sawyer
The Values Exercise is a signature brainstorming framework developed by College Essay Guy. It’s designed to help students build a deeper sense of self through reflection and to bridge the gap between life experiences and the core principles admissions officers prioritize.
WHAT DO I VALUE?
Exercise: Select 10 values you connect with most. Of those 10, choose 5. Then your top 3.
These values become the foundation of your application and essays. You’ll want them clearly illustrated throughout your application, so a reader can develop a strong sense of who you are and what you bring to a campus and community.
Once you have them, you’ll want to use them in conjunction with other exercises such as the
to develop content for your personal statement and supplemental essays.
For a how-to guide to writing your college essay, head here.
For guidance on a ton of supplemental essay questions, check out our CEG Supplemental Essays page.
And if you want to see a bunch of college essays that illustrate the authors’ values, head here.
| – Personal Development – Recognition – Accountability – Inspiration – Music – Helping Others – Peace – Diversity – Expertise – Vulnerability – Global Awareness – Hunger – My Country – Sleep – Productivity – Intuition – Culture – Healthy Boundaries – Second Chances – Listening – Family – Excitement – Travel – Adventure – Laughter – Entrepreneurship – Wonder – Health And Fitness – Love – Close Relationships – Humility – Art – Responsibility – Grace |
– Autonomy – Loyalty – Courage – Self-love – Ritual – Purpose – Privacy – Freedom – Quiet – Compassion – Cooperation – Growth – Authenticity – Practicality – Nature – Objectivity – Leadership – Wisdom – Respect – Strength – Flexibility – Financial Stability – Empathy – Belonging – Equity – Resourcefulness – Decisiveness – Competence – Collaboration – Spirituality – Social Change – Honesty – Mindfulness |
– Safety – Wealth – Creativity – Knowledge – Inclusion – Curiosity – Gratitude – Faith – Communication – Interdependence – Efficiency – Stability – Humor – Truth – Order – Excellence – Religion – Beauty – Meaningful Work – Trust – Self-expression – Fun – Rationality – Democracy – Self-control – Balance – Adaptability – Success – Independence – Variety – Community – Patience – Challenges |
How to cite this exercise
Ethan Sawyer/College Essay Guy (2016, July 1). College Essay Guy’s Values Brainstorming Exercise. College Essay Guy. https://www.collegeessayguy.com/blog/the-values-exercise
