Family Essays

Like Childhood Experiences questions, Family questions are usually easy and fun to write about. This is your opportunity to relate how you have been shaped by those closest to you—how that ten o'clock curfew really did keep you attentive to your studies and out of trouble.

Aside from discussing how your family has influenced you, you could choose to write about difficult situations, such as caring for an ailing parent or sibling. Such events can show a great deal about your character and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Thinking about the character traits of your family members can help you identify some of your values and where they came from. You might realize, for example, that your interest in social work originates from your mother's concern for the welfare of others. Do not worry if your experiences do not seem earthshaking. Often, everyday living can be most influential—and most interesting—to an admissions officer.