<p>Hi, I'm a junior right now and as of late I've been thinking about what I might write about in my college app essays. There are two instances in my life that I would like to write about, but I'm uncomfortable with sharing those moments with people I personally know. They're not particularly bad events; I guess they're just kind of emotionally charged events that occurred in the less happy parts of my life? People I know perceive me as being relaxed and carefree, and I'm uncomfortable with the idea of portraying myself in a vulnerable light... and I don't like being comforted. Like at all. It makes me feel really awkward. I feel that if I were to share this information with anyone, I would look really pitiful and I don't want that to happen. I've been told that I'm a good writer, and I would honestly prefer to write my essays completely on my own. </p>
<p>Wow, that took a long time to explain. Sorry everybody. I was just wondering if you know anybody who has done this, and whether this is a stupid decision.</p>
<p>It is a bad idea in my opinion. Feedback is essential. Now is the time to find a few people to trust. You will need letters if recommendations as well. Identify those teachers and ask them if they are also willing to read your essay. They will get to know you better through your essays and likely write better LOR. You could also bounce your ideas off of them this year so you can write your essays over the summer. If you are too shy to ask send emails.</p>
<p>Thanks for the feedback. I think I’ll try emailing my English teacher… it’s a lot better than direct communication haha</p>
<p>First of all, if emotionally charged = sob story, it’s probably not a good idea. You shouldn’t look too pitiful in your essays - even if you tell a sad story you should come out looking like a strong person that an admissions officer would want at their college. </p>
<p>As far as proofreading, I think it’s actually better to use someone who doesn’t know you very well (as in, not a relative or anyone who loves you) because they won’t feel as awkward about offering real criticism. There are lots of people in the College Essays forum here who will read your essays, and you don’t have to post them on a thread for everyone to plagiarize either. </p>
<p>“I’ve been told that I’m a good writer”</p>
<p>Be careful with that. A lot of times in high school, “you’re a good writer” just means you’re a better writer than average high school students who think “This is my essay” is an acceptable opening sentence. In any case, even brilliant writers have editors.</p>
<p>Yes, specifically if you have any grammar issues or mistake I’m your essay, it may be tossed into the no pile. If you don’t take the time to read your essay, why should the admission officers? Just have proofread by a teacher so it’ll be your best.</p>