Can I Write About My Cat for My Common App Essay? (Spoiler Alert: Maybe, But It’s Tricky!)
So, you’re staring at the Common App essay prompt, the weight of your future academic career pressing down on you, and your brain screams, “I should write about my cat!” Hold on, tiger (pun intended!), let’s dissect this feline fantasy.
The Short Answer: You CAN Write About Your Cat, but It’s Not a Guaranteed Admission Ticket
The Common App, in its infinite wisdom, basically says, “Write about anything you want, as long as it shows who you are.” So, theoretically, a well-written essay about your cat could work. But, like a cat who’s just discovered a box of yarn, it’s not as simple as it seems.
Why Writing About Your Cat Can Be a Good Idea (If Done Right):
- You’re Passionate: If your cat is your soulmate, your furry therapist, your reason for living, then your passion for this four-legged friend can translate into a compelling essay. Think about how your cat has affected your life, your personality, your growth.
- Cats Are Surprisingly Complex: You can explore themes of responsibility, compassion, resilience, even existentialism through your cat. Have you learned patience from watching your cat stalk a dust bunny? Did your cat help you overcome a difficult period in your life? These are prime essay fodder!
- It’s Unique: Let’s be honest, everyone writes about their favorite sport, volunteer work, or that one time they aced a challenging test. A well-crafted cat essay could stand out from the pile.
Why Writing About Your Cat Can Be a Terrible Idea (And How to Avoid the Cat-astrophe):
- It’s All About YOU: The essay is about showcasing you, not your cat. Make sure it’s not just a cat story, but a story about you through the lens of your cat. Don’t get lost in the fluff (pun intended again!).
- Avoid the “Cute” Trap: We all love adorable cat videos, but those won’t get you into college. Your essay needs depth, introspection, and a clear connection to your character and values.
- Don’t Overdo It: Your cat should be a part of your story, not the entire story. It’s a balancing act between your cat being the catalyst for a meaningful reflection and becoming the centerpiece of your essay.
Here’s the Thing: Your Cat Can Be a Powerful Metaphor
Your cat, in all its feline glory, can be a way to explore themes that resonate with college admissions officers. Think about:
- Responsibility: Did you learn about dedication and commitment from caring for your cat?
- Creativity: Did your cat inspire you to write a poem, draw a picture, or even compose a symphony?
- Resilience: Did your cat teach you how to bounce back from setbacks, like that time it leaped onto the counter and knocked over your favorite vase?
But Remember, It’s Not Just About the Cat
The essay isn’t about showing off your cat’s cuteness or your cat’s ability to perform tricks (though those are definitely bonus points for your personal entertainment). It’s about using your cat as a springboard to reflect on your own growth, your experiences, and your values.
Here’s a Sample Essay Snippet to Spark Your Imagination:
“My cat, Whiskers, is a creature of contradictions. She’s both fiercely independent and impossibly cuddly. She’s a master of the nonchalant stare, yet her purr is a symphony of contentment. Watching Whiskers navigate the world, I realized that I, too, am a creature of contradictions. I yearn for independence, but I also crave connection. I’m confident in my own abilities, but I also fear failure. Whiskers, in her own feline way, taught me to embrace these contradictions, to see them not as flaws but as the essence of who I am.”
The Bottom Line: Let Your Cat Be Your Muse, Not Your Essay’s Entire Focus
If you choose to write about your cat, make sure it’s not just a fluffy anecdote. Use your cat as a tool to showcase your unique personality, your intellectual depth, and your ability to reflect on your own life. Remember, the Common App essay is your chance to tell your story, and your cat, if used wisely, can be a powerful part of that narrative.
Need More Help?
If you’re still unsure about how to approach your Common App essay, or if you need more guidance on how to write about your cat (or anything else!), feel free to reach out to us at the JobLoving community. We’re here to help you navigate the sometimes confusing world of college applications and write a compelling essay that will get you noticed.