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On a practical level I agree with the general gist of these precautions. I am a parent and browsed CC since 05. I officially joined the community this year, even so i do not feel it necessary to ‘post’ if others are already saying what potentially amounts to what I would. On the other hand I have often cautioned posters sometimes via PMs when they present too much, or ask others the type of information that could make them vulnerable to crazies. I am hyper-vigilant about security (especially now with DD in college on sites such as Facebook).
In terms of in internet communities, I limit my self to few- a couple professional sites and CNN, but have found CCers to be some of the most supportive and courteous folks. I have recommended the site to just about all the parents in my many affiliations.
Personally, having been involved with pvt independent schools for over 15 years I am always assisting kids with thier high school and college application planning. I love doing it and never hesitate when asked.
So, although I agree 100% with being cautious about privacy, in terms of essays; let me remind you that there are hundreds of essay-planning books, comprised of selected candidates’ authentic winning-essays -. It would be all too easy to copy from those. However, I also feel the majority of kids in the CC community are conscientious, ambitious and motivated who understand that the individual's voice is measured across the total application including teacher’s recommendations.
It is not unusual that an application fails on the fact that parts just do not reconcile.
My bit of advice would be just use care, think about how much he information in your drafts will identify you, e.g. change identifiers such as your school’s name, your towns or work places etc. AND if you have no one to help you review your work, you might miss an opportunity to get some assistance. Finally, the number of posts is not necessary criteria on which to measure a genuine community member or their intention.
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