<p>Hey CC, I wrote an essay responding to the 4th prompt of the Common App, and I was wondering if anyone could read it. It includes "risky topics" about homelessness and and alcoholism(not me). I know it's kind of a gamble but I think it would help me stand out from "when my family moved across the country" and "when my abuelita passed". Would any CC reader be willing to read it and input their thoughts?</p>
<p>bump…</p>
<p>I don’t read essays, but a couple of thoughts. You need to make sure your essay is about YOU, not about your family’s plight. You want to make the college want you on campus, so make sure your essay is giving them the most interesting, unique thing about you. Don’t take the prompts too literally… it isn’t a catharsis opportunity, it is a marketing opportunity for you. Now… 2nd thing about this. Some colleges do like the "overcoming adversity"story, BUT they also don’t want to get too dragged into a family with big drama. That can cause them issues… I often think the best place for this type of info is to ask your GC if they can include it in your recommendation, and then you write about something else. Just my two cents.</p>
<p>I am happy to give it a read and offer input. </p>
<p>@intparent I definitely agree. My essay might be swinging to far in the opposite direction, though, by taking it a little too lighthearted. Also, looking at it now, it might not be enough about me, either. Thank you.</p>
<p>@VSGPeanut101 pm’d</p>
<p>Homelessness is fine and since you don’t have the drinking problem I don’t see the “risk” in the essay. </p>
<p>Do colleges REALLY want students where their parents (who drop off on campus, show up for parent weekends, and often are responsible for part of the bills and/or paperwork) are serious alcoholics? I would pick the kid who didn’t come with that baggage that can spill over onto campus if I were a college…</p>