Common App "Additional Information" essay - discuss struggles?

<p>Hey all - my S is trying to complete all his Comm App pieces so he can apply EA to a few favorite schools. He isn't the greatest student, partly because of struggles with ADD (inattentive, non-hyperactive) and auditory processing issues. It isn't for lack of trying and he is at a very competitive high school. He did fairly well on the ACT. </p>

<p>So the question are, for the additional information piece 1) do you even need to fill it out? 2) what are good topics when so much is covered in the regular essay and other app questions 3) should he discuss his academic struggles? I feel like admissions people have probably heard that one a million times. </p>

<p>The additional information does not need to be filled out but can be used to elaborate on something that cannot be adequately addressed in the application itself, or is not addressed through the essay. For example, my D used it to elaborate on her involvement with music since the space allowed under the ECs simply did not allow her to truly flesh out the depth and breadth of her commitment. She perhaps added 150-200 words on that. </p>

<p>I would think the ADD/struggles might best be handled by the guidance counselor and would encourage you to have your son talk to them. But also have him look at the application carefully since there are places in the application and/or supplements to address specific hardships/challenges. </p>