Can I write about a non-human for this essay?Answered
Hello.
Prompt (Texas A&M supplement): Tell us about the person who has most impacted your life and why.
Do you think it will be appropriate for me to write about a dog that changed my perspectives (that started my journey to become a dog-lover and grow beyond) on any things in life? Or do I have to strictly adhere to a "person"? I just do not want to sound cliche and say that my mum or dad or a friend/family/teacher impacted me the most. How flexible can I be?
Thank you!
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2 answers
What matters more than being creative and trying to not sound cliche is that you follow the instruction, which, in this case, is describing how a certain person has had a major impact on your life.
Although the admissions officers would really appreciate a dog-lover writing about their experiences with dogs (especially considering Texas A&M's mascot Reveille), it would not be a good idea to do so under this prompt.
If Texas A&M appears as a safety on your list, you don't need to stress too much on standing out through essays. Not answering the prompt can harm your chances of getting in, even if it's a safety.
Here are some sites to get you started!
https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-texas-am-university-essays-2022-2023/
https://www.thoughtco.com/who-has-most-influenced-you-788868
https://custom-writing.org/blog/essays-on-the-person-who-has-had-the-greatest-impact-on-your-life
https://www.collegeessayguy.com/blog/texas-am-supplemental-essays
Hope this helps!
Hi @AnanyaN, changing the question to fit your needs or assigning "personhood" to a pet to fit the needs of the prompt is in my opinion a risky proposition.
Why? Because Texas A&M is specifically asking for a person. And secondly, I find it hard to believe that a pet would have more impact and influence over your entire lived life than a human being. I think it's fairly obvious that you love your dog and vice versa but it's hard to believe your non-verbal pet can give you sanguine advice or guidance when you need someone to help you with your day-to-day problems and assist you with family issues, personal issues, relationship issues, mental health issues, schoolwork, co-curricular, etc.
If you do not agree, then I would contact the Texas A&M admissions office and ask them directly if you want to write about your dog instead of a person, would they support that decision?
Good luck.
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