As in many instances here at CC, I am going to say something that is neither indicative or representative of typical interactions or outcomes, but is true for one of my kids.
One of my daughters had such positive, glowing responses to her college application essays that two of her early-writes made specific mention of how much the admission committee enjoyed reading them. One college’s note said that after reading her essays, they could not wait for her to bring that energy and spirit to their campus.
The college to which she matriculated presented a special moment for me when, at a gathering, I said my daughter’s name and one of the readers of her application turned to me and told me that my daughter’s statements in her essays were so emphatic, so formed a picture of who my daughter must be, that her essay both reflected who she was, resonated with those in the room, and made quite the introduction.
I know the details of only two of her essays, and know that in one she took such risks, was SO much herself, that I raised an eyebrow and told her it was her risk to take, but I wouldn’t do it.
She read fully the opportunity the application’s questions presented, and melded her
how-I-got-here
with her
where-I-want-to-go
and
how-I-want-to-get-there,
and wrote an essay using the proper punctuation, form, tone (+) and focus for getting done what she needed to get done.
My takeaway: with proper preparation, some confidence and consideration, and that unknown factor most of us will never know about, the kids can take a leap every once in a while and land safely.
As with all things…YMMV.