<p>For one of my admission essays, I wanted to basically write about the feeling of getting 2nd after winning 1st previously, mainly dealing with my computer science experience. I won state my sophomore year and then got 2nd my junior year. I wanted to frame the essay as it was a blessing to still win second even though it was so bittersweet, and because of that feeling I know I can only be happy with being the best. I want to conclude with how that feeling inspires me to win my senior year and go out with a bang. </p>
<p>I have several questions I would like to get opinions on…</p>
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<li><p>Both years I have been ranked around 15th in the state after district, ~8th after regionals, and then somehow always perform my best at state and surpass almost everyone. Would you consider that an interesting bit? I think it could show how I perform well under pressure and surpass expectations, but maybe that’s just my thinking.</p></li>
<li><p>Our team won 1st both years as well. Does it detract if I add that? For me, it may be construed that it diminishes the feeling of getting second. However, I do remember that after I figured out I got 2nd last year, the team title didn’t feel as good.</p></li>
<li><p>I’m having a hard time deciding if it’s more effective for me to start off with my sophomore or freshman year. My freshmen year I was horrible. I didn’t even make the team. But it might sound good to give it a “rags to riches” type of feel.</p></li>
<li><p>I was not on the varsity cross country team last year that won state, but I was this year and we got 2nd. We were not happy with the results because it was ours to lose and we lost it. Should I incorporate this into the essay? I am weary because I wasn’t technically on the varsity team before, but I did get a medal and ring. Plus, I don’t know if it will make the essay lose focus or strengthen it by using 2 examples</p></li>
<li><p>If you have anything else to add, please feel free to do so!</p></li>
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