To write or not to write: The Optional Essay

Question

I'm in the process of writing my essays for 5 schools to which I'm applying in R2. I'm having an internal debate regarding whether I should address my lowish GPA in the applications. My GMAT was a 750 and my GPA is a 3.06.

If I were to write the optional essay to address my GPA, I would explain the ways that being active on campus in undergrad was a higher priority for me than achieving a certain GPA each month. While I believe I learned as much if not more than every other student, I know now that this approach was shortsighted and that I look forward to approaching business school in a different fashion.

So, what do you all think? should I write the optional essay?

bakfed · Answer

I think that if you're targeting some top b-schools, you should address the 3.06. If you're gearing for University of Pheonix, it'll take you with your 3.06 with no questions asked.

irishequine · Answer

Good point, I should have clarified. I'm applying to McCombs, Darden, Haas, Stanford and Notre Dame. I take it you think I should address the GPA as most of these schools are considered top tier.

bakfed · Answer

To be honest with you, my GPA is very similar to yours. I graduated with a cumulative of 3.11. I've only explained to those that I consider extremely hard to get in (with an average GPA of 3.5). I did not explain on my Darden application and I received an interview invitation. If I were you, I'd really only explain it on Haas and Stanford GSB, though this is really just a personal taste.

thisguy310 · Answer

I would recommend doing it. I was in a similar boat as you and opted to write the optional essays, highlighting my involvement in undergrad and how I recovered.

tfincham86 · Answer

I'm in a similar situation as you. My GPA is lower than I would like.

I'm explaining mine as I had some 'different' circumstances during one semester of undergrad that really pulled my grades down.

Also, I am going to use it as a way to show how I have grown from it.

piggles · Answer

I took seven college courses to offset my lower GPA and used the optional essay to show personal growth between collegiate me and current me. If you can do something similar, albeit not on the same scale, I think that makes the strongest essay. Saying you're better today is one thing, proving it is another.

Maybe a quick online calc class over the holiday at a somewhat reputable university?

Maybe a quick online calc class over the holiday at a somewhat reputable university?

riverripper · Answer

If you have a convincing story to tell then tell it but dont bring attention to something if you are unable to make a compelling arguement. Don't waste a readers time with a bunch of BS, they have heard it all before and probably will see right through a lot of excuses.

To write or not to write: The Optional Essay

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