Is this the right interpretation of the first common essay prompt?

<p>"Some students have a background or story that is so central to their identity that they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story."</p>

<p>I am planning on writing mine about how my family being foreign has caused me to become more self-reliant because my parents are blue-collar workers with very little English knowledge. I essentially grew up taking the lead for them when they had to talk with doctors, billing companies, etc., translating and whatnot. This also pushed me to work harder in school and become who I am so I would be able to help them out.</p>

<p>Any thoughts or advice is appreciated. Thank you!</p>

<p>No, I don’t think so.</p>

<p>I’m a little confused as well as to the exact correct interpretation of this prompt. I’ve been tossing around two topics that would fit this essay, both of which I feel are VERY central to my identity as a person…I’m just not sure if they’re also central to my identity as an applicant, if that makes sense. One involves a lifelong EC of mine that I would elaborate on. The other is similar, although not at all the same, to the OP’s, involving a family member. OP, the way you interpreted it is what I was leaning towards as well though.</p>

<p>I’m going to disagree with IronFist. In my interpretation, the first prompt is basically a free prompt. If this self-reliance is a main theme in your life, there’s nothing wrong with writing about it.</p>

<p>I agree with nhdmaniac that the OP’s proposed topic is both appropriate and responsive to the prompt.</p>

<p>“background or story that is so central to their identity that they believe their application would be incomplete without it.”</p>

<p>it might fit, but I totally disagree that the above is a free response type of prompt. “so central” are the key words IMO.</p>

<p>I posted yesterday the prompts are lame and some kids will have a very hard time finding something that fits one of those 5. 3 of the 5 right off the bat could very easily not apply to many kids. That leaves place that you feel content???..yikes Where these created just by English teachers…jeez…talk about fluff.</p>