When applying to colleges, you might encounter questions labeled as “optional” on applications like those for Elon University or the College of William and Mary.
For instance, Elon’s application reads: “You may also write an optional personal statement if there is more you would like to tell us about your background or any circumstances that might inform your academic information.” Similarly, the College of William and Mary offers an optional essay prompt: “Beyond your impressive academic credentials and extracurricular accomplishments, what else makes you unique and colorful?”
So, should you I do the optional essay for college applications? Does “optional” really mean you can skip it? The answer is both “yes” and “no,” depending on your circumstances and how much you want to strengthen your college application.
On the “Yes” Side…
If you choose to skip the optional essay, it could save you valuable time. The senior year of high school is notoriously busy, filled with academics, extracurricular activities, and other responsibilities. Every additional task adds to the stress.
Therefore, by not doing the optional essay, you can allocate that time to other pressing matters, whether it be focusing on another application, studying for an exam, or simply taking a much-needed break. After all, the word “optional” suggests that completing the essay isn’t a strict requirement, right?
On the “No” Side…
However, when you see the word “optional,” consider it more as an “opportunity” rather than a pass to skip the question. The optional essay provides an invaluable chance to showcase your personality, background, or experiences in a way that the rest of your application might not fully convey. It’s an opportunity to make your application stand out.
Why the Optional Essay Matters
- Showcasing Unseen Strengths: The rest of your application—grades, test scores, extracurriculars—might already be impressive. However, the optional essay allows you to highlight something unique about yourself that doesn’t fit into the other sections of your application. This could be an unusual hobby, a formative life experience, or a personal achievement that you’re particularly proud of.
- Explaining Discrepancies: The optional section on applications, like the additional information section on the Common Application, is an excellent place to address any discrepancies or weaknesses in your academic record. For example, if you had a challenging semester due to personal circumstances, the optional essay is your chance to explain this context to the admissions committee. Without this explanation, they might make assumptions that don’t fully reflect your situation.
- Demonstrating Interest: Completing the optional essay shows that you’re willing to go the extra mile. Colleges often use optional essays to gauge a student’s interest in their school. By taking the time to craft a thoughtful response, you signal to the admissions committee that you are genuinely interested in attending their institution and are willing to put in the effort to make your application as strong as possible.
- Building a More Holistic Profile: Colleges are increasingly looking for students who are not just academically capable but also bring a diverse set of experiences, perspectives, and passions. The optional essay can add depth to your application, helping to present you as a well-rounded candidate.
- Competing with Other Applicants: Remember, other applicants might choose to complete the optional essay, and if you don’t, your application might not stand out as much as theirs. Admissions committees read thousands of applications, and any extra piece of information that highlights why you’re a great fit for their school can be crucial.
How to Approach the Optional Essay
If you decide to tackle the optional essay, here are some tips to make your response impactful:
- Be Genuine: Write about something that truly matters to you. Your authenticity will come through in your writing and make your essay more compelling.
- Stay Focused: Even though the essay is optional, it’s still important to stay on topic and answer the prompt directly. Avoid going off on tangents.
- Highlight Your Fit: Use the essay to explain why you are a good fit for the school. Mention specific programs, values, or opportunities at the college that align with your goals and interests.
- Proofread: An optional essay should be treated with the same level of importance as any other part of your application. Proofread carefully to avoid any grammatical errors or typos.
- Be Concise: While you want to be thorough, make sure your essay is concise and to the point. Admissions officers have a lot of applications to read, so clarity and brevity can be your friends.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the term “optional” might suggest that you can bypass certain questions on your college application, doing so might mean missing out on a valuable opportunity. The optional essay is a chance to enhance your application, clarify any concerns, and demonstrate your commitment to the school.
So, should you do the optional essay for college applications? If you’re serious about your chances of getting into your dream school and want to present the best possible version of yourself, the answer is a resounding “yes.” Treat every part of your application as an opportunity to stand out, and you might just find that the effort you put into that optional essay makes all the difference.
