<p>I know that, with college essays, the rule of thumb is “the more distinct, the better” but I think my choice may be way too out of the box. </p>
<p>I’m applying to Princeton, TCNJ, and Fordham. Princeton and TCNJ are my two top choices. Obviously, I expect myself at TCNJ considering the acceptance rates. My Fordham and TCNJ apps are done and for Princeton, I’m doing the “significant person” essay. I realized that I was having way too hard of a time writing it. My Significant is my brother, who I was very close to. I knew it was going to be called “The Anatomy of A Mountaintop” because of a story he told me while at boot camp for the Marines where he was sent to Isolation and forced to perform an exercise called “mountain climbing” for an hour. I wanted to describe how he influenced me; that he challenged preconceived notion; that he was troubled, had low self esteem, rebelled, but in the end, made something great of himself; that I love him and that I can sincerely say that the thought of making him proud is motivation enough. </p>
<p>I’m rambling. The point: it was an emotional topic (he passed away after boot camp at 19) and I didn’t feel comfortable formatting it into what colleges look for (an unforgettable opening, a life lesson, etc). It felt too much like using his memory for my own means, which I know is ridiculous, but still. So to warm up and brainstorm how to start this essay that I really did not feel like writing, I wrote a letter to him instead. And it came out organically. His impact, his importance, the mountain climbing story, everything. It’s heartfelt, genuine, and personal but it’s not exactly an essay. I’ve read about girls who have submitted eulogies instead of essays and taken other risks like that, but I don’t know if it’s appropriate. The Common App does have a “topic of your choice” option…</p>
<p>I’m willing to PM anyone the letter, if they want to read it? </p>
<p>What do you guys think? You all would know best.</p>