<p>I just drafted a new essay because earlier this month my brother died unexpectedly on a hike. I can't think about much to write about, because everything else seems kind of insignificant in comparison.<br>
I've been told though that colleges don't want to read about overcoming obstacles, they want to read more about goals, accomplishments, etc. Also I've been told that the best essays are on small topics.
I could probably try to work with a less huge topic, because I don't want it to seem like I'm looking for sympathy, but here's basically what I've got right now:
Talk about my brother and how he encouraged me to hike, and describe a hike we had together and it's impact on me.
Reveal his death, and how I at first felt betrayed by the mountains hiking that caused his death, and considered never hiking it again.
Talk about how I now realize that hiking is a way to feel close to him, and what he would've wanted me to do.
Is this too sympathy seeking? I'm trying really hard to avoid that. It's also a lot to cram into 500 words.</p>
<p>I feel that as long as you focus on how is death affected your identity today (love of hiking) and how he inspired you it should be okay. I just would not focus on him actually dying and how its been a hardship in your life.</p>
<p>That sounds good. Just don’t make it too sob story. Don’t focus on the death too much just how you reacted and overcame it</p>
<p>Yeah in the (terrible) draft I have now it’s mostly about how he influenced me when he was alive, I don’t even mention he’s dead till the last third and I briefly talk about my feelings now towards hiking and the mountains, not so much about mourning and dealing.</p>
<p>i have an essay like yours too. just focus a lot on overcoming the obstacles, and it should be fine.
and im sorry about your brother 
that must suck so much</p>