Although many already know this, I think it’s worth mentioning that you must be extremely careful writing about politics/the election in your essays. This is especially true this year. I’ve read several essays people have sent me, and many are unnecessarily veering off-topic.
Inevitably, just like many essays in 2001 were about the September 11 attacks and in 2009 were about the Great Recession, many essays this application cycle will be written about the presidential election/politics––in some form or another. Anti-Trump/effects of racism/gun control/populism/Bernie Sanders/political parties/etc are all going to be common themes and will likely lead to weak/cliched essays.
If you really want to write something related to politics, it must take a unique approach and involve you. These essays have a real chance to stand out. Curious to see what other CC members think about this topic.