<p>By far the most exciting thing I did in High School, was found the Young Democrats a club. We later went on to meet Hillary, and help our local congressman squeeze out a 1% victory.</p>
<p>While I think this is the best direction to go for an essay, I'm afraid of discussing something as controversial as politics in my essay. What if some neoconservative works in admissions? </p>
<p>Is there a general rule of thumb to avoid hot button topics in college essays?</p>
<p>Thanks,</p>
<p>D</p>
<p>I think that sounds like a great topic. Make sure to keep the focus on you and your accomplishments, even though the vehicle for the accomplishments has been a political club. You don't have to delve into politics, aside from perhaps saying why you felt the Democratic party was right for you. You're not recruiting votes for anyone now, you're putting the spotlight on yourself so you can get into a college.</p>
<p>If you're worried about the neocons, make sure you speak respectfully of all Republicans, such as the local congressman's opponent. No thinly veiled jabs at Bush, even if it might feel good. Keep the essay upbeat, with all political emphasis on your well-formed ideas for solutions (policies you support) rather than on obvious problems (the current administration.) Regardless of the beliefs of the admissions reader, you'll come across as a mature young person truly interested in bettering the country.</p>