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iambroke
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On a related note, on one of the main essays, I am talking about the challenges i faced during college. Do I have to reintroduce those challenges in the optional essay, or can I just cut right to the chase?

So, if I've already introduced and talked about "X" in the main essay, can I just say, "Due to X, my GPA went down" vs telling them what 'X" is all over again?

Thanks,
M
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Always cut to the chase. Always always.

But do write the reason again. Meaning don't refer to another essay through text - "In essay xx I wrote about". Just write it again, but much briefer.
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I agree with Jon here - cut to the chase but make sure you always tell them what you're about to tell them.

On an another note - be very careful if you're selecting hardships faced during college for an essay topic. I'm not saying it's not a good topic but without knowing more I would caution you to make sure you've really gone through the brainstorming process thoroughly.

Bhavik