Hey guys, I'm working on my college apps right now, and some schools have 'optional' supplemental essays. Should I spend my time writing them, or just focus on the required ones? Would love to hear your thoughts!
Hey there! Writing optional supplemental essays is generally a good idea, as it can demonstrate your genuine interest in the school and give you an opportunity to showcase more aspects of your personality, experiences, and goals. By taking the time to write these optional essays, you're sending a message that you've put thought and effort into the application, which can help you stand out from other applicants.
That being said, it's important to prioritize the required essays first, as these are essential components of your application. After you've completed the required essays, you can shift your focus to the optional ones. Make sure you produce high-quality content for these essays, as submitting poorly written or generic responses could do more harm than good. It's better to submit nothing than a poorly executed essay.
If you have limited time or are feeling overwhelmed by the application process, it's okay to be selective about which optional essays you tackle. Choose the ones that allow you to share unique or compelling information that wasn't addressed in other parts of your application and can strengthen your case for admission.
In summary, optional supplemental essays can be beneficial if you approach them with care and thoughtfulness. Prioritize required essays first and make sure to write optional essays only if you can commit to producing strong content that adds value to your overall application. Good luck, and happy writing!
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