<p>So i have been working on my common app essay about a significant person, and i have spent about 200 words telling a story that segues into a description of the person and how they have influenced me, but i feel like it hasnt really shown anything aside from the fact that i am a good writer. the basic jist of my essay is this: my cousin passed away and he influenced my love of cooking since he was a chef so i talk about how it is a huge part of me and i tell an anecdote about serving one of his recipes that no one used since his passing and how it really made my passion not just about me but my family and is a way to honor him. its a very strong piece but i am not sure if just writing about something that is important to me “sells” myself in any way…thoughts?</p>
<p>The risk of the “important person” essay is that you, the applicant, can get lost. You might consider a topic that allows your personality to come forward a bit more and doesn’t pressure you to honor a dead relative.</p>