<p>about the essays, I have to say I agree more w/ Lirazel than OP, especially if you have a “familiar” EC/award that adcoms would recognize and understand quickly, there’s nbot much of a point in writing an essay about it. Generally they know the activity and they know the type of person who does it, spend your precious essay space on something more unique. </p>
<p>Also, about the writing about your culture no-no for Asians, I think it’s all in how you do it. I’ve read essays on heritage that I felt were very superficial because they feel like a tourist souvenier in terms of how “Asian” this person actually is but I chose to write my supplemental essay on it anyway. It’s not the best thing written but it’s one of the sbest that I’ve written. Yes, some topicsa are overdone but I think sincerity trumps overdoing the uniqueness. You do NOT want to look like you’re trying too hard.</p>