Hey, writing some introspective pieces here and one has this 'who am I' type of prompt. How deep do people usually go with these? I mean, are we talking deep dark secrets, achievements, personal philosophies? Just trying to gauge the right angle without oversharing or being too bland.
In a 'who am I' college essay, there's definitely a fine line to walk. You want to be personal and authentic, but remember that this essay is still a professional document. Think of it as a heartfelt pitch to a stranger about what makes you, well, you. It should touch on aspects of your character, values, and perhaps pivotal moments or experiences that have shaped you.
Avoid sharing anything that you wouldn't be comfortable with an admissions officer knowing. For example, I had a student who wrote about overcoming a challenging family situation which highlighted her resilience and maturity without diving into inappropriate details.
Your achievements can be part of the narrative if they've genuinely played a role in defining your identity, but don't reiterate your resume. Personal philosophies can be great, as long as they're tied back to real-world examples that show you walking the walk. Aim for the sweet spot that shows self-reflection and growth.
And don't discount the smaller stories either—in the mundane can often be found the profound. A moment of everyday empathy or an interaction that set the stage for a new perspective can be just as powerful as any grand revelation.
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