<p>I recently thought of a topic but I'm concerned it wouldn't make for a good essay because it was more about how I changed over a period of time than one specific event in an exact time frame. It seems most of the essays I've read are in the format of a specific story followed by a reflection. Is it okay to stray from this format or will the admissions counselors see it as airy and lacking in concrete details?</p>
<p>It’s fine to stray from the format. There are no rules. It is true that anecdotes add a lot to an essay, though (Like anything else, you have to use them correctly).</p>
<p>It’s definitely okay to deviate from the anecdotal format and try a more creative approach. However, try not to be too vague and give a few concrete examples/details that illustrate exactly HOW you’ve changed.</p>
<p>While it is okay to stray from the standard format, it is important to remember that details are what will make your essay stand out. Leave them out them at your own risk. </p>
<p>I would advise you to try to include a good concrete comparison of how you have changed if possible. You should be able to do this and still stick with the topic you’ve chosen. Good luck.</p>
<p>Sure you can. You can make anything work in an essay, but bear in mind that</p>
<p>“Over the last x years I’ve 1. become [flattering adjective], 2. learned to [positive aspect of adult behaviour], and 3. come to realise that [Christian value] is more important than [act of self-interest].”</p>
<p>is less informative than</p>
<p>“Over the last x years I’ve 1. become [flattering adjective], 2. learned to [positive aspect of adult behaviour], and 3. come to realise that [Christian value] is more important than [act of self-interest]; when I was y years old, I once [specific but not too horrifying instance of idiocy/anti-social behaviour], but now I would never even consider it because [concrete proof that emotional/intellectual maturation has taken place].”</p>
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<p>I actually lol’d.</p>
<p>You can write your essay however you want to. Many great essays are on anecdotes because that offers an incisive look into you. If you think you can write a terrific essay over a general topic, go for it.</p>
<p>The anecdote format is just to avoid being too vague. You can pick any style you choose, but you should make sure to be specific enough that the adcoms get a picture of who you are.</p>