Is writing my college essay about my autistic brother a good idea?

As a Yale graduate and college admissions advisor with over 8 years of experience helping students choose and shape essay topics, I can tell you that writing about your autistic brother can absolutely work—if the focus stays on you. Admissions officers want to understand the person behind the application, so your brother should serve as a lens to show your growth, values, and identity, not be the main subject.

One effective approach is to center your essay on a single moment or challenge that captures your relationship with your brother. Instead of summarizing years of experiences, zoom in on a specific event—maybe a day you advocated for him at school, navigated a public situation together, or found a new way to communicate. This gives you the chance to highlight qualities like empathy, patience, leadership, or advocacy skills.

After setting the scene, shift the focus to your reflections and actions. How did this moment shape your perspective, influence your choices, or inspire you to take meaningful steps—such as joining a peer counseling group, studying psychology, or promoting disability awareness? The goal is to clearly connect his influence to your goals, ambitions, or personal growth.

For example, a student I worked with described organizing a sensory-friendly movie night after realizing the lack of local options for kids like her brother. The essay wasn’t just about the event—it showed how the experience ignited her passion for creating accessible spaces and making a broader impact.

Your brother can be a powerful part of your story if you use the essay to reveal who you are now and who you want to become. Done right, admissions officers will come away understanding both the important role he plays in your life and the unique person you’ve grown into because of it.

Over the past 8 years, I’ve helped thousands of students craft essays and applications that stand out at the most selective schools. I’m currently offering free consultations for new Sundial families, where we can review your goals, brainstorm essay ideas, and outline a clear application strategy. You can book one directly through my profile—spots this month are limited.