<p>Is it only ok to write hardship essays if the thing you want to write about is immensely tragic? Or is it fine as long as you got something out of going through whatever you went through? Also, how do you approach this without seeming whiny? I don't mean to complain in my college essays (I don't gain anything and certainly it will most likely hurt me), but it seems to me that it is almost unavoidable in a way? Any tips on how to make absolutely sure that there is no tone of blame or complaining?</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>Also, it would be helpful if anyone could contribute ideas for a "tell me about yourself" essay (essentially a "write about any topic you would like, as long as it reveals something interesting about yourself"). I have a sort of list of possible approaches, but I am not sure what to do. What have you guys found has worked/what are you thinking of writing of, if you have a "free choice" essay?</p>