<p>In the fall of 2013, I discovered the beautiful thing that is acting. I auditioned for our school's fall production at the insistence of my friends and ended up landing a lead role. I fell in love with the stage, the people, and the overall atmosphere of a theater community.</p>
<p>It was my hope to describe our Little Theatre (the home base for the drama club) as a place where I am perfectly content (common app essay topic #4), because it is where I feel like I can truly be myself without fear of retribution. However, I do not plan to pursue a career in acting or musical theater, because I know how extremely competitive the field is and I do not have a decade of experience like other teenagers I know.</p>
<p>Do you think that it would be acceptable to still describe the Theatre? What are some potential risks? Benefits? I'm thinking it could show my willingness to try and be comfortable with new things, but it could also show a lack of dedication to science, which is what I'm intending to pursue.</p>
<p>I think that you’re overanalyzing your topic choice. If theater has truly been an integral part of your life there is no loss using that as your topic. You’re making your application more interesting in my opinion. How many scientists do you know that are also actors? I think that you should go ahead and write about theater.</p>
<p>Yes, you certainly can write about acting without compromising your dedication to science…which I am sure is conveyed by your grades, scores, and other ECs. Actually, your passion shows even in your post above…I think that is much more interesting and personal than a cliche, trying-to-fit-a-mold essay. Go for it!</p>
<p>I think the point of this essay question is to find out about your hobbies and passions quite apart from your career goals. You know what advice everyone gives to grad students who are pursuing science as a career? Make time for hobbies outside of school/work, because those hobbies will save your sanity when work is driving you crazy.</p>
<p>I ended up writing about the Little Theatre, and my essay received a lot of great feedback from teachers, grad students, and peers. I think it turned out well.</p>