<p>if you've traveled to like 20 countries, is it bad to mention in a common app essay that you've done so?</p>
<p>It depends on how you “mention” it. If it’s just that, a brief mention: “Oh, by the way, I’ve traveled to twenty countries”–then don’t do so. It’s haughty, boastful, and out of place, and the adcoms will say, “That’s really cool, but why did you tell us like this?”</p>
<p>If, however, you can integrate it into your essay and it’s a cohesive aspect of your overall point, then by all means, let your uniqueness shine!</p>
<p>I agree with above. Also note that if you don’t put it in the right context you will seem less interesting and more privileged; not many kids your age could have ever afforded to travel so much so it’s not exactly an “accomplishment” in itself, just a display of wealth.</p>
<p>I agree with both responses. It’s what not you did, but the context and main idea of your essay.</p>