Should discuss 'a bad grade year' in app essay?

my-3-sons
Fri, 08 Aug 2008 12:20:08 +0000

I don’t think an explanation of bad grades is an appropriate topic for a main essay. Main essays should focus on giving the reader a new insight into you not found elsewhere in the app. I once read that for “tell us about yourself” essays, write as if the reader will need to pick you out of a crowd based on the personality traits you revealed, not a laundry list but an indepth reflection. Show what makes you, you.

An explanation of grades is more a subject to be covered under “additional information”, and one concise paragraph is about right. Accept responsibility and tell how you have learned from the experience.

Don’t sacrifice essay quality in a rush to get apps in early. Take your time and really let your S think it through. It’s quality, not timing that will get him into the schools. Good luck.