<p>I agree with Northstarmom that IF the colleges would be more interested in hearing about what you have to offer them as opposed to you writing an essay about the loss of your brother, then I would pick another topic. Your loss is way too personal and life altering for you to pour your heart and soul into not knowing if it will be appreciated and understood. I am sure the college admissions people want to get to know you through your essay but maybe not on this intimate of a level, unless of course you can write it in a way that could be interpreted that your own personal experience with losing your brother would in some way make you an asset to the colleges you are applying to. Good luck.</p>