<p>I'm deciding whether I should mention depression in my common app essay and supplements. I'm applying to USC, UPenn, and Carnegie Mellon. I feel like I shouldn't even mention it, because it makes me look like I can't handle the work. Also, I know that colleges are probably really wary of suicidal students. On the other hand, depression is a big part of my life, and I indeed have overcome it (to some extent) as evidenced in my grades.</p>
<p>What should I do? Mention it or forget it? Btw I'm a transfer student</p>
<p>Is this a formally diagnosed condition or one of those depression bouts that many go through without ever going to doctor? Either way, if the application doesn’t specifically ask whether you have been diagnosed with depression, don’t volunteer information. </p>
<p>As a transfer student you shouldn’t mention it. It’s iffy for a high school student as there is concern that colleges are worried about unstable students. But I can see a case for it. But as a transfer your college record and college community participation plus the reason your target school fills a need for you are the major points here. I don’t think it is something that belongs in a transfer application at all.</p>
<p>thanks for the advice :)</p>
<p>Don’t mention depression in the college app essay. Do you have anything better to talk about?
You can probably mention it in the place of the app where they ask you to say anything you want to talk about that is important and have not had the chance to mention it in other places of your app. </p>