<p>Hey guys,</p>
<p>I'm kind of torn between two different responses for the 150-word optional. One of them is the standard "something about my character" that is good, but definitely not unique by any means. The other one is a mock epic poem I wrote that ties into my drive and ambition, but it's definitely erring on the risky side. Should I send off my standard one or my creative one? I'm afraid if I do the poem it might rub off the wrong way. :S</p>
<p>Any input would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.</p>
<p>I’m working on the same thing right now! I’m taking a break haha. what I think is anything that your scared will rub off the wrong way, don’t do or try to find a better way to word it if you believe it really defines you. These essays are something to make you stand out so I am trying to shy away from the standard. I hope that was some help, I’m in the same boat as you so I don’t know how much help I could be.</p>
<p>@collegebound: thanks for the advice. On second glance, my poem is not really all that risky, just creative if they like that kinda thing. </p>
<p>Just wondering, what are you planning on doing for your optional?</p>
<p>I’m using to describe the way I identify and how my identity conflicts with the identity my environment gives me, and by environment I mean my high school</p>
<p>^ Elite colleges LOVE risky essays. With that said, “risky” means creative, not something that could be potentially harmful. The cut and dry essay will not be of much help to you because they’ll probably forget it. </p>
<p>I already wrote mine, and it was exactly 150 words. I had a certain theme going, but it wasn’t drastically unique. However, I think it showed how much I love what I do in a subtle way. The way I see it is, an optional essay needs to add something to your package. If you just write the standard response, you didn’t take advantage of that essay, and you might as well not have written it. “Standard” is a loose term, but after reading some of my peers’ essays, I can tell you that TONS of people’s responses end up sounding the same. Make yours different!</p>
<p>@DRose: thanks for that input! Now I’m feeling much more, well, safe haha.</p>