<p>I am very serious about school and ECs. However, in general I don't take myself (or most things) very seriously. As I have sat down to write my common app essay, everything I churn out seems way too SERIOUS. I am a seventeen year old who has experienced minimal hardship when compared to the world at large. Everything written in the sort of "memoir-esque" tone required of college essays sounds ridiculous. The only parts of failed essays that sound like something I could actually turn in are comical. Not like "I fell down and hit my face it was hilarious" funny; I just tend to make fun of myself and the situations around me. So is it appropriate to write a "funny" essay? I hate first person writing; everything seems to end up sounding contrived. But will colleges be like "Oh look she's trying to be funny. Reject."?</p>
<p>Generally, you’re on the right track. Treating a debate tournament like a life-or-death situation IS contrived. Humor is great. It’s generally listed as a “no-no” because 98% of kids aren’t capable of putting their humor in to words. Just don’t go over the top. Interject a witty observation, maybe some self-deprecation…well used humor will add a human tone to the essay, as if the adcom is conversing with you.</p>