How "risky" is too risky?

College Essays
1

<p>Hi all, </p>

<p>I'm writing my first draft of my Common App essay, and I wanted to talk about the way falling in love with my major of choice changed my life. I'm a decently strong writer, but I don't want to answer the question too "safely" - I don't want my answer to be simple and boring. </p>

<p>My question is: How "risky" can you get before colleges get sick of you? How much humor can you inject into the essay before it becomes tacky? I know this all depends on writing skill and placement, but what is a good guideline? Is it bad to say things like "I know what you're thinking." or "Is he really writing this in a college essay?"</p>

<p>~Thanks</p>

2

<p>I don’t think it’s necessarily bad to say things like “I know what you’re thinking”. An engaging writing style can get attention–in a good way. But I strongly recommend that you ask a trusted English teacher to review your essay. He/she should be able to make helpful suggestions and let you know if you are being too “risky”.</p>

3

<p>Thanks for the advice, Pootie. I’m definitely going to consult an English teacher on Monday, I just wanted to make sure I wasn’t doing something completely idiotic.</p>

<p>Thanks!</p>