adversity/challenge essay topic?

[marykatemkay]

trying to prewrite secondaries and it seems like several schools ask about overcoming adversity. i'm trying to decide what to write my adversity essay about:

1) emotionally abusive relationship in high school --> overcame self-esteem issues in college and came out of my shell, taking on leadership roles --> tie it into meaningful interactions with SA/DV victims in EMS/homeless shelters. -- worried it'll be a red flag

2) working at daycare w preschooler with autism, frequent displays of aggression and a workplace injury while trying to block him from hurting himself and other students on playground, advocated for treatment plan, over time our school implemented different techniques ('calm down' time and space + headphones to help with sensory issues) -- not rlly about myself so idk if this works

3) financial instability in college due to death in the family + poor financial decisions within extended family placing burden on my family. worked through college to support myself (briefly mentioned this in OIE essay)-- seems cliche

4) grief- lost my uncle a few months ago. -- even more cliche

help pls!!!

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[CBass2288]

if the essay is asking about YOU overcoming adversity, then:

1. could work, but i agree too risky for potential red flag
2. definitely not for this question, is a great essay for another topic, you should use it! but wouldn't put you in the place of adversity in that scenario
3. this is the strongest example. you got put into a bad scenario and did what it took to survive.
4. not nuclear family = not as big of an impact, also happened recently so i'd avoid it. im not sure you'd even have much content for this one.

 

[LunaOri]

1. Shows growth. Not a red flag!
2 and 4 aren’t adversity. 2 would fit a secondary about advocating for someone.
Not sure 3 shows change or growth in response to adversity.

 

[Mr.Smile12]

1. If you are emotionally mature enough to discuss this topic, you can try. Please do not interpret such prompts as opportunities to dump traumas.
2. I feel a little awkward pinning a challenge considering the child is neurodiverse.
3-4. Deaths in the family. Is the challenge about overcoming grief? Does one ever overcome grief?

1,3,4. are emotional-based. I would prefer a challenge where problem-solving is more highlighted. I prefer adversity being more about something out of your control that made you change plans, like having your shadowing opportunities get shut down during the COVID pandemic, or recovering from Hurricane Helene.