There are a few ways to write an essay for college. First you may want to see what personal statements appeal to you personally. This will make it easier to write, because no one knows you better than you.
After choosing a topic, create 5 sub topics that help support your topic. Most essays require you to write 5 paragraphs, so you're already off to a head start. You can use this as your outline as you add additional content.
Now with your 5 sub topics get creative with descriptions that will grab the reader. If its a sad story make them empathize, if its a happy tale do the same. Allow the reader to experience the story as if they were there.