Writing a college essay about death

I'm considering writing my college essay about the death of a loved one, but I'm worried it might be too personal or too sad of a topic. What do you guys think? Should I go for it or find a different topic?

I understand your concern about writing an essay on such a personal and emotional topic. The key to deciding whether to write about the death of a loved one is to consider how this experience has significantly shaped you, your perspective, or your personal growth. If it has had a meaningful impact on your life, then it might be an appropriate topic to share with admissions officers.

When writing about a sensitive topic like death, it's essential to strike a balance between telling your story and avoiding melodrama. Focus on demonstrating how this experience has helped you grow and develop, perhaps in terms of empathy, resilience, or a new understanding of yourself and others. Colleges are looking to admit students who demonstrate personal growth and the ability to overcome challenges.

Remember to convey your unique perspective and voice in your essay. This topic is already quite personal, so focus on how it connects to your identity, passions, motivations, and goals. If you can identify a meaningful connection between this experience and your aspirations as a college student, you'll have a strong essay topic.

Lastly, consider seeking feedback from a trusted teacher, family member, or friend to ensure that your essay strikes the right balance between being heartfelt and constructive. It can be helpful to get an outside perspective when writing about emotional experiences.

In summary, it is possible to write about the death of a loved one in a college essay if you can effectively convey personal growth, maintain a balanced tone, and demonstrate a meaningful connection to your identity and aspirations.