<p>Would it be wise to begin a college essay with a quote from a president? Possibly from Obama? I will be relating it to my essay topic, so I am not sure if it will raise issue if my admissions reader is a Democrat or a Republican.</p>
<p>I would avoid it, not even because it could hurt if the reader was a Republican, but because opening an essay with a quote is seen as weak. Admissions officers have told one of my English teachers that they usually can tell by the first paragraph and often the first sentence whether or not the student should be admitted to the university. In times where admissions is getting more and more selective each year, colleges put more and more emphasis on the essays to take a more holistic approach to admissions. You want to wow them from the start, and opening with words that do not show your own voice could hurt you. I’d avoid it at all costs, but wait to see what others have to say on the matter. Good luck!</p>
<p>Thank you for the great reply CoffeeAddict. I very much agree with your statement of opening with my own words. Thanks for answering my question, and if I have any more I will be sure to ask them here!</p>
<p>yup i agree with coffee. Avoid religion and politics.</p>