<p>Okay, I have a really big question to ask, which is a lot to ask because this is my first post. Basically, I became a member just to ask this question. </p>
<p>My father molested me when I was in freshman year in high school. It only happened once, because that day, I told my mom. The thing is, is that it's a family secret, and he isn't reported or anything. I'm thinking about writing about this for my personal statement, but I have no idea how to go about it without making it overly sentimental or cliche. Do admissions officers get these kind of mushy-mushy tragic, woe-is-me types of essay often? And if you guys think I should write about my experience, I need to somehow not say that my father did this to me, because as twisted as it sounds, my mother and I feel like we need to protect this secret and honestly, I don't want him to go to jail or anything. But the problem is, is that one of the HUGE and important complications of the aftermath is the fact that he is my father, and not some neighbor. </p>
<p>Also, I'm an Asian female whose upper-middle class who is probably going to apply to some lower tier Ivy-leagues. Yes, I am taking advantage of my situation here: do you think this would raise my chances of getting into some of them if I pull it off?</p>
<p>imo, speak with a lawyer about the legal ramifications of your proposed essay. One thing that comes to mind is that in many places, professionals such as guidance counselors are required by law to report instances of abuse of minors that they learn of in the course of their professional work. That may or may not be true in your specific situation; therefore, imo, consult a lawyer.</p>
<p>As for the topic itself, remember that in college essays, it is not the topic, it is what you do with the topic. While your proposed topic may gain some attention, the bottom line will be that the quality of the essay, not the nature of the topic, will determine the effect of the essay on your chances of admission.</p>
<p>Therefore, whatever topics allow you to be personal, detailed, honest and revealing about yourself, your genuine, whole, self, will be good topics for you. "Mushy-mushy, woe-is-me", by itself, imo will not help you because such essays seem to seek admission on the grounds of pity and sympathy rather than by offering solid reasons that the writer is worthy of admission. </p>
<p>P.S. Also consider posting your question on the CC Parents Forum. There are many thoughtful and concerned parents there who may be able to help you.</p>
<p>Thanks for your advice ADad! It seems that no one else want to help me out, though :( Oh well, I'll do post as you suggested in the CC Parents Forum, and hope I get some results there.</p>