<p>hi like a month ago i sent to harvard my application supplement on paper without the optional essay. nevertheless i have heard that this is a huge minus. do you think that i could send them the additional essay via common app? or am i pretty much screwed?</p>
<p>no it's not a problem. the optional essay is truly optional, it's not like you'll be at a disadvantage if you don't submit it.</p>
<p>i dont know about that, are you sure? do you think that they would accept it if i sent it again with the essay via commonapp?</p>
<p>If you think the optional essay will give more info about you to the admissions officials, then send the optional essay.</p>
<p>Usually, the mandatory essays give enough info, according to the admissions web sites and amissions officials I've seen.</p>