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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]First, high schoolers aren’t good writers (with limited exceptions). Second, it’s significantly harder to craft a compelling narrative without a conflict. It’s not impossible but it’s not easy.

Finally, you have to remember that most college admissions officers significantly overestimate their ability to set aside their personal biases when evaluating essays. An emotional essay that shows determination and character (note that’s not the same a sob story) will carry more weight.[/quote]

No way, perennial essay readers have to be the most jaded people on earth.  Given high schoolers aren't great writers, even if they have overcome conflict, they run the risk of writing an overwrought, treacly essay.  If they focus on something mundane, they have a better chance of showing actual introspection, and purpose in their essay.  [/quote]

Admittedly, that is a concern but it's very avoidable. It's also important to be memorable, something the reader can associate the student with (e.g The kid who did X/The kid who overcame Y). If done properly will out perform a mundane essay (which will be completely forgotten after someone reads 50 essays).[/quote]

This sort of catch phrase memorable can backfire.  If all the essay does is convince the reader the student is capable of developing a theme, and is eager to do that at the college level, mission accomplished.[/quote]

Ok troll, thanks for playing.[/quote]

Not PP, but there's some truth to that. It *can* (not always) come off as gimmicky or tacky (and it also depends on the officer reading it). Of course, it *can* come off as brilliant and witty. It's a difficult balancing act. [/quote]

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