I wrote a really good personal essay a while ago that I think would fit prompt 7 of common the app essays (7. Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.) I know it says share an essay on any topic but I’ve read that writing about literally anything isn’t worth it.
My topic is about a clause in the Constitution, its rulings throughout history and how it represents my ideas of adapting and evolving our lives to fit fickle decisions. That’s basically the gist of it but I’m just wondering if that’s too political? It’s not really about politics per se, but it involves the government and laws so I don’t know…
Also, it’s not a close-minded essay and doesn’t give a one sided view on things, very open and objective.
I would not really worry about the “too political” part, but I’m not sure that an essay along the lines you describe does much to make you stand out as a person – although I have to admit that “fickle decisions” is a very intriguing concept. This 66-year-old lawyer would be happy to read it and give you my impressions. It’s not really possible for me to give you a helpful response in a vacuum. You do not have enough posts to PM me, but I will send you one that you can reply to or you can email me: my name here @ gmail.
It’s hard to say much without seeing it or knowing what schools you are planning on applying to. That being said, the essay should be about you. If you use this as a lead-in that can be fine, by I wouldn’t make the constitution the topic. Also, I wouldn’t try to argue for a thesis–its hard to do so in the space provided and would probably sound immature in comparison to a college-level essay.
No, writing about a clause in the US Constitution is not controversial. My concern, however, is with your use of the word “fickle” in connection with this topic.