<p>I've written my common app essay on a prompt of my choice but it has received much criticism by CCers so I've decided to change topics. I have decided to use the influential person prompt and write about Richard Dawkins. I want to write about his passion for what he does and how he's so articulate in what he says. Thing is, how can I connect it to ME? given that colleges want to learn about me, not someone else. Also, how can I go into talking about Dawkins? Thanks</p>
<p>& does anyone know if writing about someone else is a good idea?</p>
<p>If you can’t think of how it connects to you, I wouldn’t write it.
If you’re going to write about someone else, I would have it be someone you actually know so that it’s more personal. Essays about famous people usually get pretty generic.</p>
<p>Write about Richard Dawkins…that’ll impress them…</p>
<p>^not sure if being sarcastic</p>
<p>Hi there! I’m a total Dawkins fan too. I’d say it’s fine to write about ANYONE who has influenced you. Think about this:
- What do you want to study/major in at college? Did you make this decision based on anything you read by Dawkins are learned from him?
- Has his passion for his work inspired you to be passionate in what you do?
- Do you feel you have anything in common with Dawkins?
- Is there anything about yourself that has changed because of Dawkins? For example, have you learned a lesson from him?</p>
<p>I think colleges like to read essays where you have an epiphany, learn something about yourself, or go through something that changes your behavior/perspective. If you can make your essay apply to something along these lines, the admissions officers will love it.</p>
<p>I think that if you can’t think about how this person connects to you then you might not want to write it. maybe you do really like what this person does, but if you don’t know a connection, then maybe a different topic may be better. just an opinion but good luck! :)</p>
<p>You need to write about something that you connect to. It doesn’t have to be mainstream or try to hard. They want to read something that gives them an insight to who you are as an individual. If you felt really good about the essay that you wrote originally and you totally connected to it, make it better and use it! If not then keep writing until you know you’re writing about a part of you you want them to meet. Good luck!!!</p>