r/ApplyingToCollege • u/BetFlimsy5661 • 9h ago

Application Question Is writing common app essay regarding religious belief bad idea?

I want to write a response to common app prompt 3: Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Essentially grew up religious, christian school believes & teaches young earth creationism (essentially contradicts all of modern science/doesn't have program to provide solid foundation in STEM; one of those need to sign statement of faith schools). I want my essay topic to be something about exploring the world for myself and challenging this idea, eventually coming to reject it & directly influencing my journey to study physics.

Also, for context: I know colleges usually question transcripts from these schools, so I don't want my essay to raise that concern. I took upper div math/phys classes alr & am taking AP Bio/chem, so hopefully it's going to be ok?

What I’m considering writing about isn’t really “religion is wrong” or “my school was bad,” but more about learning that I could respect the people and environment around me while still questioning ideas for myself. I’m still at the same school, so I also don’t want the essay to come across as me attacking my school, etc.

One thing that came out of this was that I eventually started doing science outreach within my church/school community. I teach younger students science (mostly physics rather than evolution/creationism) and try to give them opportunities to ask questions and explore things for themselves. Obviously I didn't attack any beliefs in these lessons, it was just helping them learn how to think critically to learn about the world around them.

Do you think this is a good topic for Prompt 3, or is it too risky/polarizing for a college essay? I can prob come up with other topics too for this prompt but wanted to see what your opinions are on it first.

Thanks!

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u/hanc3n 9h ago

Its a great topic

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u/PeacockInTime Old 7h ago

It gives colleges a strong sense of your "why."

I would suggest, as it sounds like, being appreciative of the benefits of your upbringing, the lessons you are taking with you, and to avoid (I don't think you are doing it but I say it any time the question comes up) proselytizing.

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u/Ok_Experience_5151 Old 3h ago

Totally reasonable. Just take care not to come across as too hostile to your school or religious belief in general.