What to write in the "Additional Information" section

Applying to College Common and Coalition Application
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<p>"Include any additional information that you would like to provide regarding special circumstances, additional qualifications, etc."</p>

<p>I'm curious what would be acceptable. For example, I suffered from extreme cystic acne in high school and was prescribed 60 MG a day of Accutane for 8 months.</p>

<p>Basically, it was like living as a cripple. If you're unfamiliar with the drug, it can be incredibly debilitating and painful. Living life was an arduous experience; sunlights hurt on the skin, and joints constantly ache. It would, I feel, be a decent explanation for my less-than-stellar GPA Junior year (the year I began treatment). However, I know that going for pity in your application is not a good idea.</p>

<p>Also, while not directly related to me, my dad (one following the other) had cancer, was treated through chemotherapy, had a heart attack, and had a triple bypass. This...extremely disrupted our family life (he was responsible for the finances).</p>

<p>Anyways, what exactly is appropriate for the "Additional Information" section? I don't want to look like I'm asking for pity, but it would certainly fit under "special circumstances" part.</p>

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<p>Both are exactly what the Additional Information section is for. As long as you word it properly, without using them as whiny excuses, then you’re perfectly fine.</p>

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<p>I feel like you should’ve asked your guidance counselor to write this in her/his recommendation. It makes the circumstance sound more serious and gives it more merit. But yeah, you can write that there. That’s appropriate. Note that there is not much space though.</p>

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