<p>If it's very well argued or demonstrates considerable intellect, etc. but harshly criticises a certain policy (though it may reveal lots of personal anecdotes along the way) -- can it be too harsh?</p>
<p>Although, if someone selects common app long essay option #2, aren't there bound to be harshly critical essays (in talking about various issues?)</p>
<p>It depends on what the policy is…</p>
<p>If you are simply taking a side on a highly controversial topic, I think you should be fine… it shows you are opinionated and would actually bring your unique perspective to the college (On the other hand, if you are endorsing the burning of books and slaughtering of puppies, I would reconsider the essay…)</p>
<p>Well, I sound quite angry about the prejudice and restrictions that plural monoculturalism (I accuse it as a “false multiculturalism”) places upon me. Maybe you’d like another read? 
</p>
<p>(And why did I just not post this in that other thread? This is a separate concern. ;))</p>
<p>That topic sounds fine to me. “Plural monoculturalism” isn’t exactly a topic the average high school student would tackle, so I think it would show colleges that you are well-informed.</p>
<p>Yes, you can be too scathing. </p>
<p>If you sound angry, close-minded and opinionated in your essay, you may give the impression that you will be angry, opinionated and close-minded in interacting with your classmates and hallmates.</p>
<p>^ hmm… that’s true, but galoisien, from in essay you sent me a while ago, I don’t remember you sounding angry or close-minded.</p>
<p>and ADad-- isn’t opinionated a good thing? Every college wants a unique individual-- they don’t want followers who simply agree with what everyone else is saying.</p>
<p>Hmm, but I’ve dramatically changed the tone of the essay though …</p>
<p>I do not know if I am sounding close-minded, but I am worried it sounds a bit too bitter.</p>
<p>The purpose of college essays imo is to convey the person, not the person’s opinions. </p>
<p>No, I don’t consider “opinionated” to be a virtue. Thinking is a virtue, listening is a virtue, having opinions is fine, but being “opinionated” suggests an unwillingness to listen that can be fatal to the whole college enterprise.</p>
<p>If it’s well-argued…?</p>
<p>Can you read mine, perhaps?</p>
<p>You can PM it to me if you want</p>
<p>When is it due?</p>
<p>In four hours. </p>
<p>It is my most “genuine” (heartfelt) essay, but if it is too harsh I will replace it with another one.</p>
<p>If it’s your “most heartfelt” one, you should probably use it! When you are passionate about what you are writing, your writing will reflect it (in a positive way!)</p>
<p>OK, PM it to me, I’ll see what I can do.</p>