<p>Since I switched from a technical high school to a virtual school despite the fact that I’m going to major in computer science, I want to write an essay for my applications about why I switched. One of the major reasons was the fact that the students at my old high school didn’t give a crap about science or technology (being around like-minded students was the reason I went to the school), and many of them were of the opinion that they’re “worthless and nobody uses them after high school”. Most of the people there were forced to go by their parents*. I couldn’t stand being surrounded by people who so openly devalued the subjects I care the most about (to put it simply), so I switched to virtual school.</p>
<p>I could pour a lot into this essay, but I really don’t want to sound whiny. When I think about it “omg high schoolers don’t like science?! ■■■ i’m switching schools” sounds kind of bad…</p>
<p>*That isn’t even me making assumptions based on a a few people. Once, at a beginning of the year assembly, our principal made a joke and asked “How many of you were forced to come here by your parents”? A good 90% raised their hands. It’s pretty much the joke of the school that nobody actually wants to be there.</p>
<p>Alan Gelb, an expert on admissions warns (and I totally agree) that you should NEVER use your essay to explain, complain, or brag. Sounds like you’re about to do all three.</p>
<p>Yeah, this sounds really bad. (I’m not sure how I’d be bragging, though… )</p>
<p>Anyway, I’m reread my post, and I want to take it back. The way I worded it makes the essay sound a lot worse that it would be.</p>
<p>This is more like what it would be like:</p>
<p>Virtual School was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made because…
-It allowed me to dedicate much more time to my passions, and exploring things that I’d never thought of before.
-I was much happier because the environment was better (here’s where I’ll note the part about the negative opinion of my favorite subjects at my previous school).
-It helped me develop multiple skills (time management, better work ethic, social skills (yes I’m serious), etc.) that I know will come in handy.</p>
<p>(But of course, when I actually write it, it won’t sound like an essay from 3rd grade. :P)</p>
<p>What I was trying to ask with this was whether or not including the fact that the attitude of my peers was a factor in it would make me come across as whiny.</p>
<p>Don’t criticize anyone in a college essay. </p>
<p>If you wish to draw attention to your peers, praise the like-minded peers at your new school. </p>
<p>I’m not really seeing, though, why you might want to write your main essay (if that is what you have in mind) on this topic. If this switch really needs to be discussed, perhaps your guidance counselor can do it. Perhaps, in an essay on a different topic, you can mention in passing why you switched. Perhaps you can submit this essay as a supplement, and write your main essay on something more revealing of you.</p>
<p>I think it would be worth further considering what you said in #3. Couldn’t there be an essay that reveals you in one of your passions? Couldn’t there be an essay that reveals you in your improved social skills, or time management, or work ethic?</p>
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