<p>The essay is well written, I’ve been told. I don’t mean to sound cocky. I am just scared that admissions officers wont care how good the common app essay is if it’s not personal. Is that true? I mean it is kind of, but it’s just not all about me.</p>
<p>If it’s all about your grandmother, then it’s bad and impersonal. If it explains the great impact your grandmother had on forming your character and unique qualities as an individual, you have nothing to be scared of. Answer these questions:</p>
<p>Does it reflect the qualities that make you distinct and a strong applicant?
Is it evident that you are a good communicator?
Does the essay show passion as a human? </p>
<p>Those are the three key elements that make a good essay imo 
good luck!</p>
<p>I talk about a trip i took and how it reinforced my goal that i’ve had since i was a kid, but the trip added a new perspective that changed the goals details. I’ve been told it seems to be more about the trip environment than me. </p>
<p>Yeah, that’s sort of an issue. I think you should tailor it to your life and make you the FOCUS. If the environment is essential to explaining the significance of the trip (your reactions etc) then keep it. If not, as harsh as it sounds, I’d cut it.</p>