<p>I'm a junior, about to become a senior since school is practically over. I've been thinking about what to write my essays on. I really like automobiles, and want to discuss something about my love for them in my essay, since I'm considering majoring in Mechanical Engineering. </p>
<p>But I've also had a terrible life experience, so I'm wondering if somehow adding that into my essay will increase my chances. When I was 9 or 10 my Dad developed a cocaine addiction, and eventually ended up committing suicide when I was 11 or so. It was a really traumatic time. So I have lived with my mom only for a while now. Plus I'm an African American male, so I guess that could help me sell the whole "black kid with no dad" image. </p>
<p>What should I do?</p>
<p>Many admissions officers think that the whole “death” theme is cliche. However, that does not mean that you can make a compelling essay out of it. Check out this website [Essays</a>, Admission Information, Undergraduate Admission, U.Va.](<a href=“http://www.virginia.edu/undergradadmission/writingtheessay.html]Essays”>http://www.virginia.edu/undergradadmission/writingtheessay.html)
It gives an example of both a good and bad essay on death.</p>
<p>Has it shaped your life? How has it made you a better person? What perspective does this give you that will be able to contribute to the diversity of a college class?</p>
<p>Don’t think that they will let you in out of pity, and don’t make yourself such a cliche. In fact, I think your characterisation of yourself and your exploitation of your father’s death is actually rather repugnant.</p>