Quote by Barack Obama; UVA sup/ What piece of literature has unsettled you?

"Strange how a single conversation can change you. Or maybe it only seems that way in retrospect. A year passes and you know you feel differently, but you're not sure what or why or how, so your mind casts back for something that might give that difference shape: a word, a glance, a touch." This is the most profound quote in Barack Obama's magnificent autobiography, Dreams from my Father. Reading about Barack Obama's life and his transformation from an unmotivated high school student into a graduate of the prestigious Harvard Law School completely unsettled me and helped me reach a harsh truth about myself. I was becoming a person that I despised. I was not putting in my best effort at school, destined for a community college and the life of an average Joe. Dreams from my Father helped me realize that I did not want to grow up and become a nobody. I was living the life of Obama before he became successful: unmotivated, lazy, and carefree. From that point on, I decided that I would put my best foot forward and try my very best. This is reflected in my ACT and SAT II scores. I worked extremely hard to achieve the best scores and am very proud of my effort. Dreams from my Father can benefit all that can understand its subliminal message. It is never too late to chase and fulfill your dreams as Obama did when he reached Harvard Law School after a disorderly childhood.

critical feed back please!!1

I wouldn't use a quote that takes up that much of the essay. You can put it in, but I think you need an intro, a hook.

"Dreams of My Father" should be italicized

"This is reflected in my ACT and SAT II scores."
If they are good then they will be able to see that. I don't think you need to point it out to them.

It's a pretty good essay otherwise.

yeah but how do i say that it caused me to do better on my act scores?

I guess in regards to your act score, maybe speak about how reading about Obama's life has improved your test taking skills or how you perform for exams. Then specifically mention either your ACT or SAT II scores and how you felt you performed to the best of your ability

Or you could choose to just remove any mention of your ACT and SAT II scores. The essay is fine without it. Maybe switch that topic to your school performance