<p>So I know that some topics seem to be total no-no's... the generic "big game" essay, the rant about abortion, the "woe is me" essay, etc. But I was wondering if it would be a good idea to write an essay that portrays me as unstimulated and unchallenged by school. Specifically, I considered writing an essay that details my thought process as I sit in a boring class -- not paying attention to the teacher, consumed by my own thoughts, and doodling. </p>
<p>At first, I was wary of this idea. But then I realized it would be backed up by good SAT scores (already got a 2230, retook today expecting to go up) as well as recommendations that I expect to be excellent (including one from a grad student at Stanford who taught me philosophy this summer). </p>
<p>First of all, your essay should not badmouth anyone. </p>
<p>Beyond that, you’ve studied philosophy, you are very smart, and the most personal, detailed, and revealing things you have to say about yourself is that you are bored and self-absorbed, and that you doodle? </p>
<p>Any topic can conceivably lead to a personal, detailed, and revealing essay, but from what you’ve described so far: I am skeptical. </p>
<p>I understand your point, but the link you provided doesn’t really seem to corroborate what you’ve said. Rather, the link makes it seem like the success of my essay hinges on my ability to “show” rather than simply “tell.” And I think I can do this in a way that really gives the reader an insight into my mind rather than simply saying “I’m smarter than this stuff.”</p>
<p>And, to be honest, it might be. I’m not the kind of guy who’s into the “personal” or “revealing” or “meaningful.” Every time I try to think of essay topics along those lines – say, using a personal experience to elucidate some broader “lesson” that I learned – it reads like child’s tale and, more importantly, it just feels wrong.</p>
<p>I didn’t say that you couldn’t do it. I said that I am skeptical. If you can pull it off, more power to you. Make sure that you have someone read it for you. If you ever want to PM it to me, I would be happy to read it. I’ve read hundreds of essays on this site.</p>