<p>I suffered from drug addiction in high school but overcame it in my fresh year of college. I'm trying to transfer into Rice and I was wondering whether the topic is too tabboo, is it true that sob stories tend to be looked down upon?</p>
<p>That’s what I’ve heard. They might even worry that you’ll relapse (though I personally doubt you will - congratulations by the way). Go for something more positive.</p>
<p>But I am no admission officer, so that is just my two cents.</p>
<p>I think the great thing about the College Essay Process it that any topic you write about has the potential to open the admissions door. I’ve read quite a few on here an for friends in person and I can tell you that a person that ‘noticed a leaf falling’ in an essay has as much chance of getting in as a person that ‘saved a small village in africa’. Colleges are not interested in what you have done as much as interested in who you can become. A great story told poorly is just another bad essay to add to the stack. A boring event told correctly can inspire and stir emotions.</p>
<p>Addiction borders on the taboo (along with criminal record’ mental health’ eating disorders) and a ‘sob story’ should not be used (who wants a sobby college student). However a story of strength’ effort’ redemption’ and success could be a winner. SImply write it in such a way that an admissions officer will want to meet you and shake your hand. If you cant do that then find a new topic.</p>
<p>Good luck.</p>
<p>(comma not working’ using this thing>’ instead.)</p>
<p>Oh god don’t.</p>
<p>I wouldn’t–like mental health or crime, it becomes a liability, something the college has to worry will happen again. </p>
<p>That, however, does not take aware from your incredible turn-around. Congrats, and best of luck!</p>