Hi I am currently in the process of writing a college essay for UT Austin. The prompt is “What was the environment in which you were raised? Describe your family, home, neighborhood, or community, and explain how it has shaped you as a person.” In 2009, my father was kidnapped and my family and I have not heard of him since. I plan to write about this life changing event on my essay, but I have seen that admission officers don’t really appreciate tragedy stories. However, that is the only thing I can think of when looking at the prompt. Also, I do not know how to begin it. I was thinking of starting with a simple word like “Fear.” or with a question, but I have also read that those are overused and cliche things to do. I am in a dilemma and would appreciate feedback. Thank you!
I’m sorry to hear that about your father and I hope he is safe wherever he is.
I think it’s certainly worth writing about. It’s something you lived with through almost half your life. You’re entitled to explore how it affected you and share your story with admissions. However you write it, I would put yourself in the shoes of admissions. How would they perceive you after reading this? As someone who lives under the constraints of fear or as someone who’s handled it?
I think the kidnap story rises to the level that would be interesting to ad coms. But make sure the essay is about you, and “shows” (not just tells) the impact on you.
If they’re asking about hour home environment, I can’t imagine how you could NOT tell that story.
But, as @intparent said, make sure the essay is about YOU, and not your dad.
Don’t sweat the intro. For right now, just get it down on paper. You can always go back and revise.
My prayers for your family.
Thank you all so much on your feedback and condolences. It really helped me get a clear direction on how and what I want to write about. Thanks!