Would this fit into my personal statement?

Question

Writing about my obsession with aquatic animals. Would that fit into the cultural awareness I've developed, a personal hardship I've overcome, or a character-defining moment?

Answer 1

I don't think your neptunian obsession would fit into any of those categories you have mentioned.

Aquatic animals wouldn't have much effect upon any 'cultural awareness' you may or may not have developed. Cultural awareness is more about noticing the behaviour of people around you, the traditions of your ancestors and the history of your people, and the daily goings-on of the civilization you are a part of. If aquatic animals were walking around amongst your people and were contributing to your civilization in some way; perhaps politically, in the arts, in business, involved in literature; then maybe you would be able to say that these animals have contributed to your 'cultural awareness'.

As for personal hardship, if you can think of some instance where a shark or a walrus, for example, were somehow involved in one of your personal hardships; which you eventually overcame, then yes, you might then be able to incorporate these animals into your story.

Did you once dive overboard from the ship you were on; grab the dorsal fin of a nearby blue whale and go on a fantastic ride as the blue whale swam through the ocean, diving down dozens of metres, then rising and jumping out of the water in a spray of foam? If you did, then this probably would have changed your life - it may have helped you to gain confidence, or it might have helped you to understand the world and your place within it. An experience like this would probably qualify as a character-defining moment, and any water mammals involved would be welcome in your story.

Answer 2

I don't think aquatic animals qualifies for that but if you have grown from it as an individual then it has definitely helped you become who you are, so maybe if it is its up to you.