Additional Information section on the CommonApp, should I use it?

Applying to College
1

<p>I have already heard many people say that I should only use the Additional Information section on the Common App if there is a reason why I had grades that I did if I went through a hard time, or if there is other information that cannot otherwise be expressed in the other sections of the Common App. I am just wondering if it is to my advantage to use that section.</p>

<p>In my second semester of freshman year I was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease, which isn't deadly or dangerous, but is extremely painful. I had a hard time transitioning into my treatment and went through a lot of pain in my stomach as I slowly got it under control with medications. Additionally, my grandmother passed away that semester. My grades reflect this, as that semester left me with a 2.9 GPA while the rest of my semesters were marked with 3.7 or 3.8. Is it to my advantage to add this to the Common App, and will they be asking me for documentation?</p>

<p>I am worried that colleges won't take this seriously, anyone could lie about something like this and put it in the Common App, couldn't they? </p>

<p>I am applying to U of Michigan Ann Arbor, Boston College, and George Washington University. </p>

<p>Thanks so much!</p>

2

<p>Definitely add it to your additional information. I doubt that the colleges will ask for documentation, but if they do, they’ll ask your guidance counselor who can vouch for you. </p>