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Is a college essay about an admired family member unoriginal?

I am currently writing my application essay, and I plan on writing it about my relationship with my father and the positive impact he has on my upbringing through sports, school, and life skills. Is this a commonly seen essay that college admissions may be tired of reading?

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Michel’s Answer

I believe that most college essay ideas have been done. That being said it is not always about the topic, but the reasoning. If that person truly impacted your life and created who you are today that is exactly what a school is looking for. If you can spin an interesting idea or concept with your essay that is what is going to be important. Talk about how he inspired you to be the best person that you could be. You are going to do amazing just make sure to have people edit it and see if it is impactful to them.
Thank you comment icon Thank you for the advice!! Emmie
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Dino’s Answer

Hello Emmie, thanks for getting in touch with us! It's fantastic that you've already chosen a topic for your essay. This could very well be a question that comes up later, so it's great that you're prepared. College entrance exams often include a variety of components, and the essay portion is one of them. The purpose of this essay is to assess your communication skills, logical and critical thinking abilities, motivation, and problem-solving skills. So, make sure to highlight your strengths in your essay with supporting details. Remember, clarity, precision, and conciseness are key. Best of luck to you!

Dino recommends the following next steps:

Read essays either online or in the library try to look the techniques on how the writers develop their topics.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much, Dino! Emmie
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Nicolas’s Answer

To answer your question: I wrote about "my hero" in about 4th grade from a computer in an office room at my dad's and it was about my dad. I don't think the topic ever gets old, though. It would be a good idea to add other people to the paper too to show you have some type of support system and explain why you mentioned these specific people. This way the university knows it's not only your dad who you look up to and who helps you, but a variety of people who all contribute to your well being.
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Adriana’s Answer

The college essay is always about you. As you write about your father, remember the point is to say what you have learned, gained, and achieved because of his direction; the essay is NOT about him.
I realize that sounds harsh but an admissions office does not want to hear about your father's accolades that want to know about you.
The college essay is where you are to 'show off' your best qualities and why your university of choice would be amiss if they do not accept you as a student.

Take your time when you write. Proofread, once, twice, three times! Embrace this time and enjoy the process.
Thank you comment icon This was super helpful, thank you! Emmie
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DaSabria’s Answer

A compelling college essay reflects your character and uniqueness. While numerous topics have been overdone, writing about what sets you apart demonstrates how you stand out from the crowd. Illustrate how sports, school, and life lessons have molded your identity and where you discovered your drive in these fields. Feel free to include your father in your essay, but remember, the spotlight should remain on you. A helpful hint is to keep the focus on yourself by emphasizing a particular instance where you learned and exhibited a trait that your father instilled in you. Best of luck!
Thank you comment icon Thank you for the advice. Emmie
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Michelle’s Answer

Hello, Emmie -

I would say that your specific essay about an admired family member is as original as it gets ! Go for it ! No other person has had your exact same familial, social and environmental experience so your story is very original. I can't speak for admission office staff, but i think your essay will have certain nuances and content that have never been read before. You are unique.

First, find out the length the essay should be from your particular school and adhere to all the guidelines they want. Practice writing a first draft and see how you can condense it to fit the guidelines. Spend time proof reading the final draft and let a couple of other people proof read it, too. I think you are on the right track with reflecting that your father is someone who has greatly provided growth and beneficial experiences for you. Emphasize how his influence has brought you to your values and beliefs. Since there are usually word limits to these essays, mention the sports, life skills and schooling and than choose one to focus on. These are just some ideas. You sound very inspired and that you are not having trouble with structure or content, so I think you will be fine.

Best wishes with writing a wonderful essay and I wish you much happiness with school.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much for your feedback! Emmie
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Thank you comment icon You a very welcome, Emmie ! Michelle M.
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Alan’s Answer

I wouldn't worry about the theme being common. It's the message that matters. How your father inspired you in ways that are applicable to your being a desirable student and member of the college community would be very relevant. But build on that, from your father to you, as it's not your father that they're interested in recruiting. You want to be presenting yourself as your own person now. How did his inspiration and lessons translate into concrete things you've accomplished or the demonstrable character traits you would bring? As you rightly don't want your essay to be like a thousand others, avoid cliches and focus on the more unique and touching aspects of your relationship. Inspire the readers.
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