<p>For the common app essay, I'm leaning toward using prompt #4, the one about a place where you are "perfectly content" and why it is "meaningful" to you. When I first decided to do this prompt, I immediately thought of writing about feeling perfectly content when performing on a stage. Dance is my passion and this would truly be where I feel most content. I know I could make it pretty descriptive, and I could definitely explain why it's meaningful to me. However, after looking up some tips for this prompt online, a lot of sites are saying to try to write about a place where most people would not feel content in order to stand out. With this in mind, I was going to write about feeling content while taking a test because I like the challenge and the time to gather my thoughts without distraction. I think writing about this would make me stand out more than writing about performing because obviously most people aren't too fond of test taking and I'm not the only person who loves to perform, but I don't know whether to go for the unique option or to be completely honest and write about what I'm passionate about. Is it more important when applying to selective schools to stand out or to really give them a piece of what makes you you? All opinions are appreciated!!</p>
<p>Stick with your passions! :)</p>
<p>You answered your own question didn’t you? “really give them a piece of you” – that’s what it’s all about! Absolutely write about what is true for you. What will make you stand out is the authenticity that will come through when you are genuinely sharing something meaningful. Writing something in an effort to ‘stand out’ is going to come across like a gimmick. Go with your first instinct!</p>
<p>Definitely write about the dance. Be your authentic self. I know that sounds cheesy but I would much rather read an essay about how happy someone is when they are dancing vs. another kid talking about taking tests. Remember the admission counselor’s are trying to get to know you the person beyond your scores and grades.</p>
<p>If you still aren’t convinced go on Yale’s site. They offer video advice on the essay portion and the counselor has a great story about a girl who sounds a lot like you!</p>
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<p>And you somehow have the idea that a stage doesn’t qualify? I’ve got news for you . . . you may be comfortable on a stage, but I certainly wouldn’t be, and I know I’m not alone! You may not have realized it, but you live in a world full of people whose knees turn to jello at the very thought of having to perform on a stage in front of people. For me, it’s right up there with rappelling off the side of a cliff . . . :eek:</p>
<p>You’ve got a gift . . . write about it! :)</p>