Changing Names in Essays

College Essays
1

<p>My Common Application essay portrays a kid who, at least in the first part of the essay, is consistently rude and annoying. At the end of the essay, I introduce two new characters, and both of them are portrayed negatively as well.</p>

<p>Should I change names in the actual essay, and, if so, do I need to mention it? (My first draft hit 800 words, so I'd prefer not to mention it if at all possible.)</p>

2

<p>It would probably be safer to change their names, and it’s fine not to mention it. It’s normal to do that kind of thing when writing about your life.</p>