I don't want this to sound hypocritical, because it isn't, but I wouldn't "Air Dirty Laundry" in the open. Even if it's just to a selection board for the academy.
If it was something from the "Past", that would probably be ok. But what you're talking about is something that is "Currently" in affect. The fact that you're an airman and you're talking about a military problem to a military board you're trying to get favor with, is also a side reason not to.
But for what it's worth, I'd say the say exact thing to a civilian. EXAMPLE: If you wanted to talk about an abusive parent that happened when you were younger, and the abusive parent either got help or is no longer in the family; then that would be fine. If you're wanting to talk about an abusive parent who is "CURRENTLY" abusing you, then that is NOT FINE. You're handling the issue, that's good. But keep the handling and process private.
So, to answer your question. Choosing the "Re-application" as a topic is a great idea. Writing about a "Current" situation that you are trying to work out, is never a good idea.
SubtleSealy,
Cristcorp is right on with this. During a college app seminar we attended with our eldest son (traditional college route), one of the things discussed was the "challenge to over come or hardship" type essays. They said whenever writing about it
1) It needs to be a past a event. If you are still dealing with it as you write it, then you have yet to over come it; you are still in the "handling" phase.
2) Don't let it turn into a "poor me" essay. The emphasis should be on what was done to over come and what was learned and not on the actual event itself.
3) Don't get mired in negativity. This can signal not having really gotten past or fully dealing with a situation. It can come across as if you still have baggage (negative) as opposed to gaining a new life lesson or skill(positive)
4) Admit any fault or contribution to the situation if appropriate. No one is fault free. We do make mistakes that can contribute to a situation or make it worse. We can also initially miss-handle the situation, as it can take time to find the right way of dealing with it. It's not about the mistake, its about correcting and learning from the mistake.
5) Don't poop where you eat. Don't write about a highly charged and/or highly controversial situation and submit it for review by any organization involved.
6) Stay away from politics
7) Adding humor is not necessarily a bad thing. However, it should be appropriate and within context. Also, what one finds funny, another can find offensive. So use it in terms of adding flavor (metaphors, similes, etc..) if and when **appropriate**. My eldest enjoys adding some humor to his writings, so advice on this was sought.
Good luck with your essays!
Opps...almost forgot. Know your audience! Realize who you are writing this for. Your audience can influence how you deliver your message.