Hi Max/
Frusciantenated:
I am so sorry to hear that you experienced this terrible situation, but pleased to learn you have endured!
There are few things to consider:
One, this idea that you might look weak or less resilient is absurd. In fact, it's the exact opposite. You survived and are enduring. Isn't that the definition of resiliency?
Two, you may want to reach out to the admissions office for the program to see if they make exceptions for truly unusual circumstances such as your own. My guess is they do, but it's best hearing it from the horse's mouth.
Three, if you do speak to the admissions office and find out that 25 is a hard limit regardless of your circumstances, you should absolutely pursue the fall intake. Any profile enhancements would be rendered irrelevant!
I strongly suggest you reach out to us at
Admissionado if you need consulting services around strategy and/or the application itself. This type of unique set of issues can best be dealt if we et to know you better and can assist you in an iterative fashion along the way.
https://admissionado.com/free-consultation/Have faith and keep pushing,
Seth