I just read the new book Valedictorians at the Gate, written by a 13-year veteran AO at Dartmouth. She is a big fan of the additional information section. A quote from pg. 124 “Specifically, it’s in the best interest of a student to fill out the Common Application’s “Additional Information” section … Most students don’t complete this section, likely because they are not sure what to say. But this is an opportunity to speak about one’s school experience, family background, culture or personal story.” She then gives several examples of what types of info students can include. I believe the OP was only an AO for one year more than a decade ago. The author of this book did it for 15 years, leaving only a few years ago. Maybe the difference between between being an “extra” reader & a professional AO. Of course no guarantee who will read your app.
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