Apply REA. Your stats are strong. I believe you will be accepted early. Best of luck!
The “Rudy” essay is essentially your retelling of the Rudy story, how you overcome some athletic adversity to be the star of the game. I think @Ruby789 is right - put yourself in your essay - don’t make it dry - tell your story. Think about it and let it resonate with you and about you. It’s not easy, but you can do this. Also, let others read it, to proof it, or to offer suggestions about whether it is personal, etc. I read all 4 of my kids essays, and I didn’t change any, but if I didn’t understand or I thought it was odd, I discussed it with them, until they felt the essays were as strong as they could be. It’s not an aspect of the application I would rush.
Again, though, I do think you should apply REA.
Thanks for all of your advice! Please pray for me if possible during this time as I make a huge decision in my life. Hopefully I get in with all of your tips and suggestions!
also applying to nd this year! i’m applying ea but just a bit worried because i know its a more competitive applicant pool - have you heard the same?