<pre><code> I have things on my record which seriously need explaining (horrible gpa, lack of attendance, and expulsion), and the only way which I know how to explain these is by speaking the truth. I had a pretty terrible childhood characterized by abuse, yata yata yata. In high school, I rebelled and ended up hating myself. My aunt committed suicide, and that was directly followed by my own attempt. However, after that, a metamorphosis happened. My life did a 180. I volunteer, work, and make outstanding grades now. I read never to talk about things in your personal statement which could make the reader uncomfortable, such as suicide. Yet, that event shaped who I am. It has made me a fighter. I can't abandon it.
</code></pre>
<p>I know not to post the entire essay, but here is the beginning. Please tell me if you feel this would make admissions uncomfortable (and if it makes yourself feel that way as well)? Do you think this will do more to help or hurt me getting in?</p>
<p>Here's the beginning:
"I don't know who you are anymore" I say resentfully as I stare into my visor mirror. The air is surprisingly clear, yet I know my lungs bear the burden of carrying out this execution. CO2 fills the car, and in my final moments, I reflect back upon my life. </p>
<p>After that, I go into detail about my childhood/teen years...... it ends with something like this. </p>
<pre><code> After that moment, life became a miracle, a gift, a responsibility. Only I have the power to shape it. Now, I am proud to say that in this brief period of two years, I have managed to break away from my past. I have upheld a part-time and worked to become co-manager, volunteered within a multitude of communities, including my own, initiated a recycling program for businesses, helped to counsel other victims of suicide, and once again found my passion for education, or more specifically, physics. While I cannot boast of a perfect GPA or prestigious family, I can boast of my zeal for life, understand for others, and perseverance despite all odds. If there is one thing this world has taught me, its that nothing worth achieving comes without its battles.
</code></pre>