In one of the college I applied, I wrote an essay that is relevant in current affairs which I really want to expand and publish it as an op-ed. However, note that I’m not worried about people stealing the essay because the deadline for the application has passed and that it’s very specific to my circumstance that it will be hard for people to use it. Moreover, in the op-ed I won’t mention that it’s actually a college app essay or any reference to the college I’m applying, however I will notify the college that I’m publishing it as op-ed. Is this appropriate?
I don’t see a problem with this. If anything, someone might plagiarize you, as they would with any published work.