Would writing my common application essay about lessons learnt through going to the gym be a good topic? Such as both my physical and mental transformations and increase in confidence
Interesting, unique and personal… Meets my requirements. I think this can be a very good essay topic if done correctly. It could be kinda fun also. Have someone at school like an English teacher read it though. Remember at some point you need to bring it back to the school and your intended major if you can. I like the correlation of the two also.
For a college admit? Cornell or GT?
I’d reconsider the point of the Common App personal statement.
For the common application essay (650 word one), I am picking the open prompt
You still need to be careful this is relevant to their admissions review. It’s not ordinary writing.
Many agree the other prompts are just starting points. You don’t have to strictly answer them. It’s not like writing for a teacher, who might subtract points, if you don’t. But even the open topic needs to show them what the sort of traits they look for. “Show, not just tell.” As they read, they want to see for themselves, not just take you on your word. So, be cautious.
It’s one of those topics that can work or not. It’s not overwhelmingly original, but if you can pull out some examples that show how you changed/grew, it might be a nice essay.