<p>I initially wrote a common app essay about my first time doing a formal presentation of a research project, and how it helped me conquer my fear of public speaking.
Would this be too "boring" or "commonplace" for colleges? I'm applying to Washington Univ in St Louis and Duke (+ some others) and they're big research schools, so I thought I'd write about that. I guess I also wrote about it b/c public speaking was a major issue I had and I personally felt accomplished to get over that. Should I use this topic? (btw, this is for the significant experience essay on CommonApp)
Thanks!</p>
<p>Don’t pick an essay topic based on whether or not you think it will impress a certain school. Pick a topic that says something about yourself as an individual.</p>
<p>That said, it seems that this topic could say something about you, depending on how it’s written. If you feel that this was a significant enough accomplishment to merit an essay about it, no one’s going to tell you that it isn’t. If you think can put a fresh spin on this essay in a way that is uniquely you, go for it.</p>