<p>So I'm trying to get started on my common app essay but I'm stuck trying to choose between the first (background story) and last (transition to adulthood). I'm going to write my essay on how my mom was diagnosed with advanced stage cancer and how it inspired me to get involved in the fight against cancer and really changed my outlook on life. I know this will fit in perfectly with the first prompt but I think going with the last prompt might answer the first and then go farther into describing how I changed for the better because of this. I'm just worried about the part where it says how it "marked your transition from childhood to adulthood within your culture, community, or family" because I feel the change was more internal than external. I mean yeah I'm more involved in community service dealing with cancer and closer to my family but the biggest change had to do with me. Any thoughts?</p>
<p>bump 10 char</p>
<p>You are on the right track. I think you can address the prompt and still make the point about YOUR personal transition to adulthood. Keep writing and rewriting until you are happy with it.</p>