<p>For the Common App I plan on answering the 4th prompt, "Discuss an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, that marked your transition from childhood to adulthood within your culture, community, or family." I am going to write about how getting my first job made me take on more responsibility and turned me into an adult. Is this too cliche? Should I pick something more unique to me?</p>
<p>The first job idea may be a cliche but only if you make it that way. Focus on making your essay something only you could write. If somebody in your class or teacher in your school can’t identify that you wrote it then it may be cliche. </p>
<p>That is a rather safe route. It could be great if you find a unique aspect to your specific job experience, but it would probably be more personal and interesting if you reflect on a negative experience that transitioned you – then maybe focus on how that experience forced you to mature.</p>
<p>Would writing about my parents divorce be any better?</p>
<p>The job is better than parent’s divorce. I am sure my kids’ first jobs definitely was a stepping stone for them to adulthood.</p>
<p>Yeah I agree, my first job has definitely had a bigger impact on my movement into adulthood than my parent’s divorce, I just didn’t know if it was too overused</p>
<p>Divorce is overused AND sometimes uncomfortably personal for admissions officers to read. I like the job idea.</p>
<p>Thanks for the help</p>
<p>I agreed with the others. A first job experience fits the prompt well. Best still away from divorce.</p>