Issue of importance essay - should it be related to our major?

Hi everyone. This is just a general question Univ. of Texas's Essay B. "Choose an issue of importance to you-the issue could be personal, school related, local, political, or international in scope-and write an essay in which you explain the significance of that issue to yourself, your family, your community, or your generation."

I was just wondering if our response has to be related to our major. I'm majoring in aerospace engineering, whhich does'n really have any "hot button" issues to write about like racism, gay marriage, etc. Would it look wired if I'm majoring in aero engineering, but my essay is about aleviating poverty, for example? Thanks in advance for all your suggestions!

Just a note about essays. While it looks nice when you can combine your major/career goals into an essay, it is not necessary. I would be in awe if you could write how alleviating poverty in your community connects with your future major.

As long as you adequately answer the prompt, I think that should be good. About Prompt A for UT, is that a more personal essay?

Thanks for your response Johnathan. As for your question, I think both essays are supposed to be pretty personal, since the point of a college essay is so they will get to know more about you.

Like Jon said, it is good but not necessary. Another purpose for this kind of essay prompt is to see how well you can express your ideas. Just do a great job! However, your career as an engineer must reflect something about your philosophy of life... if you had no strong opinions, you would not know what profession appeals to you. So... those same opinions manifest in other ways related to social issues. You can find a common denominator. :-)

I agree with both Kevin and Jonathon on the topic. The resons for the essay are to get a deeper understanding of the kind of person you are. If you could connect your major into a meaningful topic that is relevant in todays global spectrum then that would be great. What you need to focus on is something that shows your values and character through the beliefs you hold.

Hope it helps!