Which is a better topic for my personal statement?

<p>On the common app they have that 150 word statement thing. Anyway, I am stuck between two choices: </p>

<p>1) Softball - I have been playing softball since the age of 7 and was captain of my JV team sophomore year and i am captain of varsity softball as well as a senior. Softball is basically my life. I made my varsity team, after only pitching windmill for one year, and I led my team to the playoffs for the first time in like a decade. I adore softball and its taught me so much. I also was named Co-MVP my sophomore and junior year. Also, how I learned to be a team leader and really matured because of softball. Also, how it helped my dad and I have a great relationship. My fear is that it might not be a standout essay. </p>

<p>2) Camp - For the past two summers I've worked as a camp counselor at a camp that I had been a camper out for seven years. This summer, I worked in a program area, which I hated as a camper blah blah. I learned to like it, also my connection with the campers. I think this may be a stronger essay and show that I have many skills. Also, I feel that this one would be more concise and not as run of the mill as the softball one. </p>

<p>I am interested in playing softball in college and have already been in contact with two coaches. I am afraid that I need to really show my passion for softball. </p>

<p>Anyway, which is the better choice, btw these are the schools I would be sending it to:
1) Skidmore
2) Clark ( i don't care about this school, its an ultra safety)
3) Hampshire College
4) University of Vermont. </p>

<p>Also, my main essay, will be about going from a huge liberal middle school, to an all-girls catholic high school, whose total enrollment was equal to one grade in my middle school.</p>

<p>Any advice would greatly be appreciated!!!</p>

<p>Anyone????</p>

<p>Hmm. Personally, I'd write both and see which one is stronger. I don't know why you think the camp essay would be stronger, as you obviously have more passion for softball, and that would likely make for a better statement.</p>

<p>The best topic is the one that allows you to be the most personal, detailed, honest and revealing about yourself.</p>

<p>On softball: you only have 150 words, you can only go into one thing in any depth. Your softball achievements won't be personally revealing, but the leadership idea, or the dad idea, might be.</p>

<p>I don't think that the 150-word essay has to be the place for showing your passion for softball. Since you are in contact with coaches, you have the opportunity to reveal that side of yourself to someone who might be in a position to help you.</p>

<p>The camp idea also could work; it sounds like you feel the camp idea could be more personal.</p>

<p>In making your choice, imo remember: personal, detailed, honest, revealing.</p>

<p>Regarding the main essay: make sure that the essay is about you, not about the school or schools.</p>

<p>Good advice about essays:</p>

<p>U.Va</a>. Office of Admission Essays</p>