<p>I'm planning to write something (haven't decided yet, but most likely about this topic) about how my parents keep dismissing my passion for dance as a waste of time, but they don't realize what it means to me and how it has helped me. </p>
<p>First of all, is it a good idea to use this topic, and portray my parents in a slightly negative light? Also, does the topic sound a little too cliche? Thanks.</p>
<p>I would tread carefully here.</p>
<p>Only if you could do in a way that does not come off as bitter or too negative.</p>
<p>As a mom, paying for college expenses, I agree with Ohiomom. I dont know if you need your parents to pay for college or not, but something to consider.
Also, I dont know what your major is, but if it is dance, I am not sure it would look good to college admissions that you are applying for a degree that your parents do not support. They may wonder about financial support from your parents if they do not support you getting a degree in dance also (if you need it, and if you are majoring in dance).
The only other thing is what ohiomom said about being bitter and negative. If you do go in this direction, make sure there is a positive spin on it, talk about how their lack of support helped you learn perserverence (or whatever), and hopefully you can talk about how they came around in the end to eventually support your decision. You want this to be more of a “what I did for love and how it made me a better person” rather than “What I was able to do despite my evil parents”.</p>
<p>Thanks for the replies. </p>
<p>@vlines: Surprisingly, I’m not going to major in dance or anything arts-related for that matter. Dance is just a passion to me just like science or basketball may be for another student. I’m planning to use my parents’ disparagement as an example of how people make judgments on concepts that they don’t understand, which will also be a theme in my essay. I’m not just trying to single my parents out as not supportive. Does that sound a little better?</p>
<p>If you go that route, try to be gracious and show some empathy for parents, don’t put them in too negative a light, and focus on your determination, despite all obstacles. It could be a good essay. Good luck!</p>