<p>i'd love to get some advice regarding my common app essay. i'm applying to the University of Michigan (and possibly other schools, but that's my main focus) and hope to get my application in sometime next week. </p>
<p>i've mapped out what i'll be writing for the supplemental essays, so that shouldn't be too difficult. it's the common app essay i'm struggling with! </p>
<p>i've come to the conclusion that i'm going to write about my dad. he passed away when i was ten. i guess the best prompt choice would then be the significant influence one. </p>
<p>with that said, i have a few questions. first, how much emphasis is put on the common app essay vs the supplemental essays? </p>
<p>secondly, what do you think i should include in my essay? obviously none of you know the relationship i had with my dad, but i'm having some trouble. this essay is designed to get to know you aside from academics. well, do you think it would be okay to write about how my dad was the one who inspired me to work hard to achieve good grades and what not?</p>
<p>with that prompt, i'm not sure how much i should put about my dad and how much about myself. you know? do they want to know ABOUT the influential person or just HOW that person influenced you? or both?</p>
<p>this probably doesn't make a lot of sense, but if any of you get it, i'd love some advice. ha</p>