Hello, as I’m starting to write my essays for 2019-2020 after a completely disappointing and unsuccessful application season, I want to think about some possible topics that are appropriate.
Since last year, my approach to essays have changed. No more big words, no more fancy metaphors; just straight to the point with a clear thesis since this seems to be much more personal and genuine.
With that being said, I would like to talk about whether writing about “Hot Wheels” is something appropriate. Of course, it isn’t just my love for hot wheels, but really some of the more specific things like the times I spent with a family searching for certain hot wheels, how cheap hot wheels are ($1) and the like.
It’s important to know your audience, adjudicators for higher education systems, so I feel like maybe “Hot Wheels” are not an appropriate subject-matter in college applications.
But then again, someone wrote about their experiences shopping at Costco with their mom and still got into multiple Ivy Leagues, so we’ll see.
If you are still an international looking for money, it isn’t your essays that is the real hurdle. Your real need is to apply to schools that are appropriate.
I say avoid clever and think real. What is it that really makes you tick. What motivates you to be your best self. Write an essay that you would give to a future spouse to really know you. Or a young child you may never see again. Would it be about hot wheels or a more authentic you. Not schmaltz or melancholy. A snapshot of what makes you different and important. Science and your family. Their hard work and your opportunities. Etc. Going back to Asia and the different life it would be if you couldn’t return. What would you miss the most.
Don’t overthink it. I love the idea of clear and flowing.
Hot Wheels is a fine topic. I wrote mine about riding roller coasters with my cousins.
IMHO “the times I spent with a family searching for certain hot wheels, how cheap hot wheels are ($1) and the like” are not useful details to include. Your essay should talk about you, and Hot Wheels is just the lens through which you talk about you.
@Sybylla Oh trust me, I know that for sure… 
Ah I understand. I may not be expressing what I actually wrote correctly (for “safety” reasons), but yes definitely it is framed around me and my values.