<p>So can I write about events in my life that happened BEFORE high school? Would it be ok to also present a few different events from separate times to show change and development?</p>
<p>It would be easier to answer your question if we had more information.</p>
<p>Is there a particular essay prompt you will be responding to?</p>
<p>Well, uhh I am actually a junior, so I am just planning general essays…</p>
<p>OK, then the answer is . . . it depends. Here’s why (and forgive me if I tell you something you already know): you’ll probably apply using the common application, which gives you 5 essay topics to choose from. Each college you apply to will probably also want you to write one or two additional essays. Often, these supplemental essays ask you to explain why College X is the perfect choice, etc. </p>
<p>So, assuming you are asking about the major essay on the common app . . . it’s OK to reference your pre-high school years and it’s nice to show growth and change. However, you have to do it in the right way. For example, talking about a mission trip you took to Guatamala after 8th grade to paint fences, and saying it made you really aware of how poor those people are is NOT a good essay. Talking about how in 8th grade you hated school and weren’t motivated to study at all, but all that changed in 9th grade because your parents started paying you for grades is NOT a good essay. Talking about how your best friend got leukemia in 8th grade, and about how you inspired thousands of people to join the bone marrow registry on his behalf and also started a successful “fund-raising for cancer” group at your high school, could be a good essay.</p>
<p>^^ Roflmao, exactly my plan. Well not exactly. Different disease. No friend got infected though (unfortunately hehehe). I also planned on incorporating that Spark nonsense too… I don’t know thought I’m still just experimenting.</p>