Should I Include a Doctor's Note in my Common App?

dodgersmom
Mon, 14 Oct 2013 17:12:11 +0000

Medical information is private. It’s appropriate to share it with your GC. It is not appropriate to share it with a stranger . . . particularly one who didn’t ask for that info.

I understand that your GC mentioned your situation briefly in his/her letter, and in a very positive way. But it would be helpful if he or she either (a) adds a short paragraph explaining the extent of the problem and the impact on your performance for the past 6 months or (b) sends a short follow-up email to all your schools explaining the situation.

Do not send medical records (including a “note” from your doctor) to someone who didn’t ask for them. It’s just TMI (too much info).

In the unlikely event that your GC isn’t willing or able to do this, or you’re unable to reach him or her before you hit the “submit” button, put a short note in the “additional info” section stating that medical treatment you’ve been undergoing for the last 6-7 months has impacted both your 4th quarter grades and your SAT scores, but you are optimistic that you will soon be back to your old self. (I’m guessing here, and hoping this is, in fact, the case.) One sentence is plenty. Then add, “If you need any further information, please ask.” At that point, if they need anything further, they’ll ask. :)

Best of luck to you!!!