<p>I've been working on a great (or at least I think it is...) essay for the common app, but it doesn't really fit any of the listed prompts. Of course, there's always prompt #6, "write about a topic of your choice". I've been wondering, however, if choosing that prompt hurts applicants in any way. Does it make admissions officers suspect that I don't have the ability to answer any of the more specific prompts? I know it's probably an unfounded fear, but I thought it wouldn't hurt to see what others think.</p>
<p>Of course not. The specific prompts are not perfect in covering the possible ways an applicant can talk about and convey him/herself</p>