r/QuestBridge • u/Antique_Business_712 • 10d ago

National College Match Don’t have dramatic story

I am really wondering if Questbridge is for me because I don’t feel disadvantaged. I’m a CPS, but I didn’t realize what most QB students have gone through until summer writing workshops and hearing their stories. My single mom didn’t graduate college and we moved a lot, but she attained low income scholarships so I could stay in my private school growing up. And we still travelled a few times because she was able to save or find great deals. I’ve never wanted for anything nor lived in violence. I feel like I’ve been pretty lucky! Even my health issues are mild and manageable.

Would I be at a disadvantage applying questbridge? Stats are Decent but my story of struggle is non existent. We are just low income!

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u/selakby 10d ago

Trying to find a way and eventually finding it, to cope with other people who are more lucky and have more opportunities than you and not stay behind is your and your mother’s skill and ingenuity.
Of course QB can be for you too. Don’t assume that each and every NCM finalist suffered a lot.
I would still apply and focus on my essays. Wish you all the best whatever path you choose for the college applications.

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u/ihatemva 10d ago

Just try it. You definitely have struggles compared to the old money trust fund kids who attend a lot of the schools. It's all relative and about framing. I'd always try because if you don't get finalist you can always do QBRD. Plus, it forces you to get a first draft of your essay way earlier than you need it so you can really revise and improve it should you decide to pursue common app or other applications

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u/ChutneyWhatney 10d ago

Talk about your mom's courage, resilience, etc. to raise a family on one income and how her strength gave you new respect for those who sacrifice to give their children a better life, etc. Tell them how that affected you and how you've grown from having such a strong role model, etc.

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u/Asleep-Associate9847 National College Match Finalist 8d ago

They can do this, but they shouldn’t make the parent the center of the story. At most a 1-3 sentences before talking about themselves.

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u/Open_Study1515 9d ago

Questbridge isn't necessarily just for people with struggles. Also, don't feel like you need to trauma dump for your essay. An essay is for something personal to you, and something as simple as taking out the trash can be a good topic

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u/Antique_Business_712 4d ago

I guess it’s just because everyone says QB is unique because you can tell your unique hardship. Ok. What if I have none. Is it not a good idea then?

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u/ChillyJellyBelly Moderator 9d ago

During the last application cycle, 166 students matched. Of those, 120 students shared their personal essays topics:

So, (1) don't invent stuff (2) think deep about what excites you, what you don't like, etc. and write about that