I’ve narrowed down my list of college essay topics but I’m still wavering between two specific topics
As a parent who attended dozens of information sessions, including almost all of the top ranked colleges and universities, I would let you know that several of them specifically mentioned how they had seen more essays on the topic of grandparents than they could stomach. In some cases, they used the topic as an example of how a kid writes the wrong essay - too often the essay became about their grandparents - who are not applying to college - instead of the actual applicant. But when school admin officers say things like “We all love and/or miss our grandmothers” it makes one wonder how an essay dealing with a relationship/appreciation of one’s grandparents has a chance of standing out.
I am certain you can write a great essay about either of the topics you mention. As for your first topic, be mindful of avoiding the “woe is me” approach, because you don’t want to give the wrong impression (I don’t think you were planning to do that, but this comment is also directed towards any others who may be reading this as well).
I also remember how one ivy-league admissions officer talked about how the essay does NOT have to have a happy ending - she said this seems to be a common misconception and too many kids try to force a happy ending into an essay where it doesn’t necessarily fit. You are still on a journey, you don’t have an ending yet, so don’t feel like you have to shove one into an essay because that’s really not what the schools are looking for. They are looking for kids who can find a way to tell something about themselves that makes us understand part of who they are as people. And she added “and for gosh sakes, while we understand that a lot of kids play sports, it seems incredible that so so many of you are in championship games”
Best of luck to you as you write your essay, and enjoy your senior year.