"Overcoming adversity" idea for college essay. Help?

College Essays
1

<p>I'm applying for UCSD as a senior high school student. The essay topic is this,
"Describe the world you come from — for example, your family, community or school — and tell us how your world has shaped your dreams and aspirations."</p>

<p>I really want to write about myself "overcoming adversity," but I don't want it to come off like a boo-hoo sob story. Could I get your opinions?
My mom's raised me and my brother our whole lives as a single parent. She never got a college degree, and she's made less than $20,000 a year every year. We were poor growing up, living off of a food stamps, hand-me-downs, etc. We even spent a few months homeless back in middle school. College was never emphazized as important to me as child because my mom didn't see it as possible with her income, and she was focused on keeping a room over our head, anyway. My grades aren't stellar(A-B average, like a 3.5gpa), but I go to a top magnet high school. I wanted the essay to focus on how we were poor, but I decided to use that to fuel me to overcome my circumstances and strive for a better education - something my mom never had the opportunity to do.</p>

2

<p>You’re essay will leave a lasting influence and impact on whoever decides to read it. It is very rare for a college to get an applicant who has overcome so much. I say that you should definitely do it. Something like this will push you over the edge. Also, don’t every worry about having to pay for college, some colleges will give you great financial aid (sometimes even a full ride) based on your family income. A-B grades ARE stellar!! You will do great in whatever future you plan to pursue!</p>

<p>P.S: I would love to read your essay whenever you’re done with it.</p>

3

<p>If you only complained about your situation, or used it as an excuse for low grades, I’d advise against it, but the way you describe it sounds very good. Colleges love to see how you’ve OVERCOME problems, not hear about them. Your essay would be well received.</p>

4

<p>wow- that sounds fantastic! and well done making it through that situation. just make sure you aren’t whining or complaining</p>