<p>One of the common app prompts is to write about something so “central to your identity” that it needs to be mentioned. A few of my friends have said they’re going to write about how growing up Indian/black/Chinese/whatever has shaped them and their life. I was considering writing something to a similar extent, but with a twist. So my question is, is the race card just as overused as “my trip to Europe” or “my gran’s death” or “my volunteer work in some South American country”? If so, have you seen different treatments of the topic that are creative an unique?</p>
<p>bump</p>
<p>The topic isn’t as important as how well you write it. If you do it extremely well, it could work. If you don’t believe in your writing ability in full confidence, then I’d try to find something related to a more unique and specific personal experience.</p>
<p>Yes, it is overused. You might think that your “twist” makes your essay unique but, chances are, admissions officers will have read MANY of that type of essay. If you want to make a positive impression with your essay, then choose a more original topic. </p>