<p>Hi I’m beginning to write my college application essay in my advance comp, and for the prompt “Some students have a background or story that is so central to their identity that they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.” I thought of the time I overdosed on oxycontin as a sophomore. I was in a dark time in my life and turned to drugs for awhile, After the overdose I got my priorities straight and became an all conference tennis player and honor roll student. I am not sure if this would be a red flag to colleges, but i really would like to know what you think. </p>
<p>I am applying to competitive colleges (Wisconsin, Santa barbara, Iowa) in case that matters</p>
<p>Seeing that nobody has bothered to answer, here goes…</p>
<p>I would highly advise you to pick a different topic. Although I understand the premise of it, and I do think it is great you have made a great change to your life, college admissions do not want to here about somebody’s drug use, sex life, depression, etc.</p>
<p>I wouldn’t advise this topic, either–unless there are other things in your application that will suggest it. For example, if there are disciplinary records from the school, or a period of low grades, that you have to explain, it might pay to be proactive and explain it. But it would be better to focus on something more positive.</p>
<p>No, as compelling a story as you have, it is a bad idea. Talking about drug use is just a bad idea. The risk is too high that you will just be seen as a risk factor.</p>
<p>Save that particular story for your memoir. For college, they are looking at writing ability, and also looking at your judgement and stability. Stick to what’s relevant. If you were applying for a college that specializes in working with kids with substance abuse, then it would be relevant.</p>
<p>I have to agree. Although it may be extremely pertinent to your life, on the off chance that Adcoms question it, they will pretty much auto deny you because you might be a risk. You never know though. If the school is a real reach then I would try it but not with match schools or even low reaches.</p>