I am starting my applications for Full Time Programs beginning in Fall 2020 and have run into a question regarding the optional essay that schools offer and my GPA. My undergraduate GPA was a 3.26 in Engineering from a top 20 Public University, but looking deeper there is a downward trend in my Junior and Senior years (3.1 average). Additionally, I have a two W's (Withdraws) for courses in my Junior year that I chose not to pursue (After my Sophomore year I attempted to switch from engineering to a pre med track that I eventually decided not to pursue the next semester. I ended up withdrawing from the courses as they had nothing to do with my major).
Is this something I need to be concerned about? Do I need to write an optional essay explaining this? Most of the schools I am targeting are in the 18-30 range and have an average GPA between 3.3 and 3.4. Additionally, I have strong WE/LOR's and a fairly strong GMAT (690) to go along with my profile.
Thanks!