Is this topic too personal/sad/not appropriate?

College Essays
1

(sorry if this is long)
Hi, I am a high school senior currently filling out applications. I want to write the optional supplemental essay for Penn State (prompt is “tell us something about yourself, your experiences, or activities that reflects well on your ability to succeed at Penn state”).

I am considering writing my essay about caring for my type 1 diabetic mother (she has been hospitalized multiple times during my high school career). My parents are divorced, so this has been something that has mainly been put onto me to worry about, essentially making me a caretaker for my mother while in school.

One reason I wanted to write about this topic is because it gives more of an insight into why my grades aren’t straight A’s. However, the fact that they are still relatively good despite this struggle I have had shows that I am hardworking and able to balance multiple priorities. I also have taken honors and AP courses throughout high school, which I can mention as a part of the story to show that I am willing to take on challenges despite stress in other areas of my life.

Obviously the topic is something important and emotional to me, which can build my character to the school (or schools if I use it for another supplemental essay).

I am just scared that the topic may be too much because while I was in AP lang, my teacher put the thought into my mind that topics relating to mental health, family issues, etc are too much for a college essay.

2

This is an excellent topic as it reveals many positive qualities about you that do not appear elsewhere in your application.

3

It tells the admissions office something about you that has been an important part of your life and is not captured in other materials. I wouldn’t write it from the perspective of “this is why my grades aren’t all A’s”. But a well-written story will convey the chronic nature and the compassion, scarifice, frustration, etc. Which could be a very powerful statement.

4

A well written essay of any kind can be a plus. Yes, it can be a good topic that adds another dimension to you. Even better if your GC mentions this in REC. Don’t make it an excuse for your grades, however. If that connection is made, it cannot be direct or it can spoil the integrity of the essay.

However, Penn State doesn’t put much weight on essays or even recs. Three numbers determine admissions: test score, gpa/class rank , date of application. Get that app in ASAP. People have finger on send button for instant they start accepting apps