I’m applying for colleges this fall and one of the essay topics is on the biggest difficulty I had to overcome. Unfortunately my biggest difficulty was getting over my bulimia. Is that appropriate to write about? Or should I not even mention it.
Medical and psychological topics are not inappropriate. The question is if they are being used primarily as an excuse to try to explain away deficiencies in academics (not a good essay). If your disorder led to your “growing” as a person as you confronted this disease and led you down paths that make you unique in a good way, it could make for a very good, maybe even compelling essay. If this is a condition that still plagues you, you might want to avoid the topic. Then it is a question for you and your medical professional whether going to college at this time is going to make your condition even more challenging.
I’ve heard that some AOs will view you as a liability for having had psychological issues. That being said, if you can write an awesome essay about it, you should prolly stick with it.
Based on what I’ve read on this website, it can be a good topic if written well. Also, congratulations on your recovery and good luck for your college admissions
It’s been done countless times. You have to remember the essay is for a college admissions review. Readers want to learn your strengths, what you’ll add in their college community. They don’t really want a self exposé about an eating disorder. It’s very hard for hs kids to know how to turn bulimia ir other life threatening challenges into an asset.
I agree…I think you can find a topic which does a better job of “selling” your application.
Does it make an admissions officer say, “Yes! I want this person on campus!” That is your goal. Don’t take the prompt too literally. Read this if you haven’t yet:
http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/college-essays/2003258-essay-tips-to-consider.html#latest