I want to write an essay about self-improvement. I guess I had some troubled circumstances when I was younger, but it led to behavioral problems. I would write about my journey from there and how I ultimately changed as a person.
Clearly, a self-incriminating topic to write about. The reason I consider it is because of how important and personal it is to me, and I believe I could write a very strong essay on it.
So my question is: should I write it? Or should I start over?
I also want to be clear on a few things.
Anyway I’d really appreciate any opinions. Thanks
Topics about personal growth and change are great to show your dynamic personality and how change and growth is something you value. It reflects that goal of a college as well-- to be a dynamic and ever-changing environment full of diverse perspectives and experiences. You mention that it is about a troubled circumstance so I assume you will discuss how you overcame it, which will really help to show your resilience.
If this topic will really show your uniqueness as an applicant and help you stand out from all others, it will do you good. A piece of advice I have always received and passed on to others is: if this essay was presented without your name on it, someone should still be able to identify that YOU were the one who wrote it.
This is something I would also take up with someone who knows you very personally.
I would say that if it is something that you know colleges must know to see the whole of you and really understand you as both a human and an applicant, I say go for it. But no one on this site will know you better than you or another person in your life. Good luck!