Hi,
I’m currently revising my supplemental essays for the colleges I’m applying to RD, and for one certain college one of the essays I wrote focuses on how I like it when I get things wrong (sort of an ‘I have an open mind/can deal with not always having the right answers’ idea). I use this as a theme throughout, but the part I’m worried about is that my main point is that on first glance, I wasn’t really a fan of this particular college. Because the word count is limited, I don’t get to fully explain why this was, and instead I go into what changed my mind about the school/why it’s now my first choice. I’m worried though that this might be a bit too risky, as AdCom might wonder if I truly am a good fit since I used to not be able to envision myself at this college. Any thoughts?
Can you simply write the essay about why you like the college rather than include why you didn’t at first?
I could. I use the theme to elaborate on what I expected vs. the fantastic reality of the school that I discovered, bringing in examples specific to the school, things I didn’t realize I would actually love until some time into the college search process. I like the idea and I believe I pull it off, plus it is honest, which I’m hoping they respect. Obviously I’m biased, though, so if others think it’s a bad idea I’ll find a way to rewrite it.
I don’t know if I’d focus too much on a theme if getting stuff wrong and then changing your mind. One example of it is good. Multiple examples make it look like you have poor judgement. I’d say you should take it out of the Why X essay.
I think it makes more sense to just focus on why you would like to go to that particular college, my personal opinion.
You’re making it too complicated. Just explain why you love it.
I’ve seen this “content that I can change my mind” theme and agree with intparent, it’s tough to pull off without seeming overly focused on a string of anecdotes about yourself. And you don’t get much bang for your buck telling a school why you doubted them. Nor do you come across as having deeply/appropriately considered their assets, in the first place.
It’s like romance. You don’t get far telling your beloved about past lukewarm feelings about her or him.
I appreciate the responses I’ve received! I’m going to look into changing it. I recognize how much potential there is for it to go astray, which is why none of my examples shows poor judgment except the one about the school. One example is how I never expected to be grateful for toll roads (I don’t think anyone would call that poor judgment! **), except they allowed me the opportunity to learn stuff I otherwise wouldn’t have about the school (and I do realize how weird that sounds).
The point that got me is that I don’t “come across as having deeply/appropriately considered their assets, in the first place,” which is what I was concerned about. That obviously does show not-so-great judgment/care on my part, that I don’t see a way to explain away.
Thanks!
Yes, sounds weird. What sort of colleges?
Even the examples one picks need to make sense. Lots of kids write about changing an attitude, but the good writing ends up showing off assets or qualities the college wants. Neat and sweet, show not just tell. E.g., the kid took a chance, evolved, is activated, it’s reflected in commitments. Not just, “And now I see things differently.” Or in your case, not just, “And now I love you.”
There’s a way to rework your idea, but you need to ensure the point will make sense to them.
PM me your essay and tell us your accomplishments to help us gauge whether you actually should write about something as high risk high reward like this. This could go either really, really well or really, really wrong depending on how well it is written.
No, let a trusted adult be your guide.
Thanks everyone, your input was incredibly helpful! In the end I chose to scrap it, and I’m much happier with the essay I wrote in its place.