<p>For the common app essay I chose the personal influence of another individual. I chose my father, however he passed away a few years ago. I'm under the impression that an essay of this type could fall between the piles of other essays concerning tragedy's influence, but I can't think of a topic of larger significance to myself. Thoughts Please?</p>
<p>I think the most important thing when writing an admissions essay is to write about something that you care about and that shows who you are. Don't decide not to write about this topic just because you think it's been overdone. Millions of kids are writing essays--so many, many things have been written and re-written about. The important part is to make the essay unique to you. Make it something that shows who you are. Write about your father, because that's what you care most about--that care will shine through in your essay and admissions officers will see that. Good luck! :)</p>
<p>I agree with poetrygirl. Also, I highly doubt several kids have fathers who have passed away. Also, your relationship with your father is unique and different from someone else's relationship with their father. Although the general perspective will be the same and so will the topic, you will have your own unique spin to it that no one else can have. Admissions officers will see that.</p>
<p>Sorry I do not mean to be asking this on this thread, but do many people really write about dead loved ones; I'm asking because I see random postings saying to refrain from it (however, how can you if it is your own parent)? How many are there (grandparents, extended family included) that truly pass away in the 17/18 years that one has lived? I mean why would this even be that common?</p>
<p>It is not the topic, it is what you do with the topic.</p>
<p>There are some comments and sample essays about death at</p>
<p>I was visiting with the dean of admissions at a college the other day. He told me that when I write my essay, he wants me to write about something I like and am passionate about. He can tell if people aren't passionate about their topic or if they're just writing what they think the college wants to hear.
So as long as you put your heart into it and know this is what you really want to write about, then you should be good.</p>
<p>Question: What do college admissions counselors think about charming essays about "small" topics? Do they favor essays about poverty, alternative energy, world peace, tragedy-or can an applicant write about something little-say their passion for playing Monopoly or eating raspberries. If these essays reflect the writer's personality and are well written will they hurt the applicant?</p>
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If these essays reflect the writer's personality and are well written will they hurt the applicant?
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<p>Not in my opinion. I think that personal, detailed, honest, and revealing essays usually work best.</p>