"Details of Circumstances Not Reflected in the Application"

Applying to College
1

Ok.

So, in December, my younger brother (14) passed away. A lot of my colleges ask if I want to include an extra thing about anything that happened that’s not reflected in my application, and I’m not sure what to do. I wrote my common app essay about his death, and my counselor and teachers will likely mention it in their letters.

I don’t want to keep hitting these schools over the head with the “death in the family” bit, but I’m wondering if I should still include something about it? My grades did suffer because of his death (I got three B+'s), and this section is as good as any to say something, but I can’t think of anything else to say that won’t be or isn’t already reflected, except for maybe the grades thing and the fact that my Junior year was more or less shot from that point on due to that fact that I was flipping exhausted all day every day.

What should I do?

2

@natmadison - sorry to hear about your loss. IMHO - you should mention about how you went through and overcame challenges due to this. This IS a significant incident in your life.

3

Yes, you should mention it. My condolences. My niece and nephew lost their big brother last year. I would encourage you to go a counselor if you haven’t already. You need to be able to talk about your feelings. Good luck!

4

Ask your GC to address it.