The sad part is we’ve made college today an arm’s race. OP. if you go to a perceived lesser college you will be ok. If you don’t go to college you can be ok. So if it’s Southern Illinois and not Stanford it’s ok. And no I’m not saying you can only get in SIU. You can get I’m great schools.
As for the essay topic everyone has told you it’s a no go. Read about essays. People have to come up with three, four, five ideas. Have you brainstormed ? If everyone is telling you no there is a reason. You either have to take everyone’s knowledge and move on. Or take your shot knowing others are saying this is a no no. But you asked a question yet don’t want to hear the answer because it’s not the one you hoped for.
No matter how you write this, it can only hurt your chances. It will not help. As many of us have said, colleges are businesses. They are risk averse. The mere mention, no matter how you phrase it, won’t work. I’ll take a look if you want to forward but….
Essays Dont have to be serious and needn’t relate to your major. In fact it’s likely better if it doesn’t.
Good luck