I’ve written one of my college essays about my experience overcoming my extreme shyness and finding my voice. The prompt said to elaborate on a struggle that has helped to shape who I am. This particular issue had been my biggest affliction in my life so far and I honestly can’t think of any other struggle that comes close to being as important to who I am, but I’ve read that writing about such things can paint you in a bad light? I’m no longer shy by any means and I’m going to elaborate on that in my essay, but I certainly don’t want to give the reader the impression that I’d contribute negatively to the campus.
I think if you write the essay with a sense of humor and with a style that illustrates you are truly out of a shell then it would be fine, especially since you have not obvious better alternatives. Also discuss how you being out of your shell would translate into participation/contribution to the campus culture.