Well, I’m planning on volunteering at the child crisis center (it’s basically a place where kids go after CPS takes them away from their parents for whatever reason or if one or both of the parents dies, or if the parents are having a custody dispute and the child needs to be taken away) once I turn 16. This is very special to me because my dad died when I was 8, my moms been through a divorce, and someone tried to abuse me when I was younger (he was from the big brothers program). Im going to be playing with the kids and talking to them and such. I do have a few questions however.
Should I even mention this on a college application (Im going to volunteer there regardless but I’m just wondering). Im specifically talking about the reasons for doing it. I dont want to seem like I’m <em>damaged</em> in some way or not ready for college because of personal issues.
I also dont want to try to play the sympathy card as I know I’m not the only one who’s had bad stuff happen to them.
<p>If you don’t want to seem damaged, simply don’t write like you are. Sound like you have handled these things maturely (you do here).</p>
<p>As far as the sympathy card thing goes, I’d just make sure the essay focuses more on the fact that you’re helping out now and less on the things that happened before.</p>
<p>I agree with pillow. Fine to mention that you were inspired to volunteer because of your own experiences being abused. Just make sure that instead of detailing and highlighting your own experiences being victimized, your essay highlights your work with the children and how you’re helping the children and what you’re learning from the experience.</p>
<p>Suppose you were to write you 500 word essay on your volunteering, you SHOULD note that your personal experiences were what inspired you to undertake this activity in the first place, which immediately sets you apart by adding a different dimension to your community service. You should, however, confine this reference in as few words as possible. It’s one of those things where you don’t actually have to describe it in detail, but the other person (admissions official) knows exactly what the situation entails and all the hardships associated with it. If you were to talk about it in-depth (even in 2-3 sentences), then it could easily come across as, erm, for lack of a better term, “whiny.” Hope that helped, best of luck,</p>
<p>Binder,
we’re all damaged in some way - it sounds like you have come a long way toward healing and strength. You have received excellent advice here already. Best wishes on college admissions and life!</p>