Common app essay - how does this topic sound

<p>I'm an international, so I'm not sure whether my essay topic is fine. I am planning to write about my hobby of rubik's cube and solving various similar puzzles. </p>

<p>While I've developed my hobby for the past 4 years, and have competed in competitions, and winning some events and setting a national record, I am not only going to talk about me developing my hobby so that I am good at it. </p>

<p>Over the years, I have made use of my hobby to go down to the science centre and put up an exhibit with a friend of mine, to display my talent, teach anyone, as well as educate people about facts related to this art.
Furthermore, I have also helped to organize a competition and helped as one of the judges for the competition. </p>

<p>Would this form a good essay, for top schools, like berkeley, Gatech, purdue, cornell, umich, unc chapel hill, uiuc, etc?</p>

<p>If it does, what areas should I focus on that would bring about my personality more, and which should I avoid elaborating too much??</p>

<p>Also, for the essay, are we supposed to focus on one of our interests or achievements, like I've listed above, or should I pick one personality trait that I believe is good, and elaborate on it by giving examples from things I have done, like extra curriculars, or other things?</p>

<p>Also, I have another idea that I might want to talk about, because I will probably only list it in the common app, without much explanation. This was some volunteer work I did at a children's society, I interacted with children of various age groups who were disadvantaged in different ways, financially, mentally, etc. I taught them school work, and organized games, etc, for them, for 1 year, like every week. This has impacted me positively, so should I talk about this??</p>

<p>Which is better and if anyone could answer my other questions as well, I would really appreciate it. Thanks!!!</p>

<p>Bump…anyone??? Please help…thanks.</p>

<p>That could actually be a pretty good topic. AdComs like hearing about little things you are passionate about, but you have to make sure you can connect the Rubik’s cube to YOU and what makes YOU special. So you can solve it in five seconds… sweet, but big deal. So your fascination with the Rubik’s cube reflects your love of puzzles and constant desire to understand life’s idiosyncrasies? That sounds like a great candidate.
Personally I would go with the Rubik’s cube over the little kids. Volunteer work can be a cliche essay topic.
If you want a reader / have more questions feel free to PM me!</p>

<p>I agree with skiguurl21. Volunteer topics are trite. The rubik’s cube sounds like it is more up your alley - especially because it seems like you’ll be applying as a science major…?</p>

<p>Thanks for the replies…anyone else who could advise?? Thanks!!</p>

<p>It’s original, so I think you have a good idea.</p>