Controversial Essay Topic

College Essays
1

<p>I am thinking about writing an essay about when I got caught stealing. Due to the controversial nature of the topic, I was wondering if it would be ok to write about it or would this topic actually hurt my chances of getting in. I feel like this can be seen as a character issue and a college might hold this against me when reviewing my application. </p>

<p>The gist of my story is basically this. My parents were really strict and made many rules like not being able to use sites like ebay to exchange goods over the internet. (I was interested in making money this way) I started breaking their rules, and because I didn't get caught, I continued to do more and more behind their back. Eventually, I lived by a "cheating the system" mentality which led to stealing. I would steal small things at first until I had confidence to steal more and more until finally, I got caught. After going to court, my parents loosened up on their rules and I was allowed to use ebay, started my own small business and made money in a legal manner.</p>

<p>What do you think of this essay idea? Will it flow well with the admissions offices? I think that some of the information revealed in my essay contributes to my interest in pursuing business and this was also a key experience in my life. I am unsure if I should write about it because what I did was a pretty big crime. </p>

<p>Thanks in advance for any responses.</p>

2

<p>hmmm, larceny. how fascinating.</p>

3

<p>any help??</p>

4

<p>I think it could work.</p>

5

<p>I don't know, it could go both ways.</p>

<p>Write it, see how it turns out - it has to focus on the positives, not the negatives.</p>

<p>But wouldn't a college already know if you've committed a crime? If this is the case, it would ** definitely ** be a good idea to write this.</p>

6

<p>It is a sealed record so I was told by the judge that schools would not be able to access it. This essay would be for a non common app school since I have already indicated on the common app that I didn't commit any misdemeanors/crimes. </p>

<p>I am focusing on how I changed for the better and I also want to note how I see this experience as a blessing instead of a regret.</p>

7

<p>I think you should try it for one school, so that there's really no harm done.</p>