<p>I’m applying early decision to Vanderbilt and regular decision to Duke, Emory, Lehigh, and Northwestern. I know I’m cutting it super close with my commonapp essay since November 1st is in 4 days. Oops.
Anyway, I FINALLY started writing the commonapp essay. I’m writing about the impact that growing up with a mentally handicapped older brother has had on me. I’m trying to avoid playing the sympathy card by talking about how growing up with my brother has made me a more compassionate, responsible, and accepting woman. Should I just pick a different topic? What should I talk about the most and what should I avoid? Any advice?</p>
<p>I think that this could be a great essay, jsut make sure that you don’t spend too much time talking about your brother, focus on your self and how you have changed beacuse of it. Also, it might be helpful to add in some examples and specific expiriences about your relationship.</p>