monisha2208 wrote:
Hi,
Need help in understanding how to utilize the optional essay space. What information can I incorporate in the same. How much does it count in the application if optional essay is provided?
Use the optional essay to highlight any weakness in your profile before the admissions committee identifies it. You can explain about the actions you plan to take to overcome your weakness. Or if you are already taking an action, what results you have seen. But please ensure that these are genuine issues which will highlight some aspect of your personality. Your weakness may be a low GMAT, low GPA, a gap in your work, or any thing which you feel should be elaborated.
You can also use the optional essay to highlight some extra ordinary achievement, which is not elaborated in your resume. Your personality should shine through the optional essay. If you don't have anything so significant, it is advisable that you don't write this optional essay. The assume that the admissions committee would appreciate this gesture.
You can also connect with the admissions committee for more information. Let me know if they have a very opposite view from what I have mentioned.
All the best !