<p>Now that some apps are out, my friend and I have been working on some essays, particularly the personal statement and editing it.</p>
<p>I am editing her essay as we speak, and she discusses being abused by a parent (which later resulted in a divorce). However, this was relatively recent, and I'm wondering, should I advise her not to discuss this?</p>
<p>I'm thinking that it was a big part of who she was, and a big struggle to hide it and survive it. Yet, I am also thinking that this may be inappropriate for her to say in an essay. </p>
<p>it depends on the effect it had on her, obviously divorce and abuse must have had a huge impact on her, just make sure that she can effectively talk about how she grew from the struggles, etc.</p>
<p>If the basic point of other essay is a sad story to evoke pity, she should find another subject. Adcoms read essays to learn about applicants' strengths and interests, not to join a pity party/</p>
<p>If the point is why she has, for instance, decided to become a family therapist, then it could be a strong essay.</p>
<p>Hm...I'd advise against it. I chose something somewhat touchy for my essay and I didn't get into my top choice. Now I sometimes wonder if my essay had anything to do with it. If she doesn't get in she might have the same possible regrets. I wouldn't want her to pore her heart and soul into this type of an essay, get rejected for that or other reasons, and then feel even worse about it. Choose another topic.</p>
<p>An application for anything should show your strengths and why you would succeed and be a great addition to the "team" (whether that be a college, company, etc....). Personal problems are PROBLEMS with the potential to distract an employee (or college applicant). </p>
<p>An essay should reflect your growth, passions, interests, abilities and potential (to add to th the institution that you are applying to). </p>
<p>While the abuse probably resulted in personal growth and change - I wouldn't choose it for my topic.</p>