<p>Many colleges (ex: Caltech, Carnegie Mellon) ask you to write a short response about a book that you've read and that had an influence on you. I understand that most people will write about classical fiction novels like Crime and Punishment or something similar you might've read in your English class. However, I never really liked fiction and never read it outside of class. But I do read a ton of technical books, like "iPhone Application Development" or some math-related books, like "In Pursuit of the Traveling Salesman" (yes, I'm really into math and comp sci, and plan to major in it). I realize that this is a strange thing to write about, but how do you think will the readers react to such a response? Would it be safer to just write about one of the few fiction books I've read? Or would it be better to pick the most important/favorite technical or math-related one?</p>
<p>I would definitely write about your favourite technical book, hands down. The point of your application is to show who you are, so if non-fiction speaks more to you than fiction, don’t force yourself to write about fiction. If it’s a strange thing to write about, that’s great! If you can be honest and write a great essay about something very few applicants will write about, you’ll definitely stand out in a positive way. When it comes to college apps being “safe” is often more harmful than taking risks.</p>
<p>Okay, thanks a lot for the feedback. I’ll go pick my favorite technical book and get started on that short response. Meanwhile, does anyone have any other ideas on the topic?</p>
<p>Pick the one that you can write the best essay on. If it’s a technical book describing some math theory on hyperbolic space than so be it.</p>