TED Talks Daily The rise of the "trauma essay" in college applications | Tina Yong
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Apr 7, 2023 
Tina Yong, a passionate politics student, tackles the troubling trend of trauma-focused essays in college applications, particularly affecting marginalized youth. She exposes how these narratives pressure applicants to commodify their pain for acceptance, creating an ethical dilemma in admissions. Yong proposes a shift towards a more equitable process that values academic achievements and personal stories free from trauma. She advocates for empowering students to share their identities authentically, challenging institutions to rethink their approach to admissions.
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Trauma Essay Example
- Tina Yong shares a common narrative used in college applications, where immigrant children describe overcoming hardship.
- She highlights the pressure to present a 'trauma to triumph' story, even if it doesn't reflect their full experience.
Pressure to Share Trauma
- Many applicants feel pressured to write about trauma, believing it's the only way to stand out.
- Admissions counselors often encourage personal stories, sometimes directly suggesting trauma as a topic.
Admissions Counselor Influence
- Admissions counselors significantly influence essay topics; applicants follow their advice.
- Be mindful of advice that promotes trauma sharing; consider its potential impact on applicants.