<p>Okay, so I know that all colleges say that they want you to be you--they want your personality to come through in your essay. A lot of people say you shouldn't worry about impressing the college admissions officer, you should just try to write the truth. But, how good is this advice really? I'm just asking, because in lit class, we peer reviewed each other's college essays. My college essay topic is a very personal topic. It's about how I managed to overcome some insecurities about myself by putting my problems in perspective. I don't think I've ever written anything so honest in my life. I am really putting myself out there. Yet, I noticed that other people's essays were much lighter in tone...they were funny and clever and witty and quirky, not serious and personal. Am I doing the right thing in submitting a very honest essay? Or am I perhaps revealing too much information? Should I try to write about something easier and less personal?</p>
<p>Well, I would say it really depends on what you want to convey to the admissions officers. Do you want to convey yourself as someone who rose above a difficult struggle, or as someone who is lighthearted and humorous?</p>
<p>Some warnings: Many students write college essays about overcoming adversity and inecurity. Yours will have to stand out among many like it. Also, you don’t want the adcoms to think you’re trying to buy their pity, so focus on your strengths more than your weaknesses. Regardless of which approach you take, you must always be sincere and honest. How personal your essay is is up to your discretion.</p>