<p>My GPA is low because in sophomore year I kind lost hope in life and was depressed about everything (and I was never diagnosed by a doctor). I'm much happier now and can add to a campus and things. But I want to explain my low GPA, but that essay would be sad, and I don't want admissions to think that I'm still so upset at the present. What to do?</p>
<p>I don’t think so. Trying to explain some sort of glitch/fault in your application because of extenuating circumstances can come off as complaining if you’re not careful. Certainly, a carefully crafted and elaborate essay will be good. But if it comes off as you complaining, then it’ll be much worse. I think the general consensus is to have your counselor talk about it.</p>
<p>But I’m not 100% sure about this.</p>
<p>Spin it in a positive light! Be like (if you’re Christian) before God created light there was darkness and use this as your intro paragraph. Then dedicate a paragraph or two to the darkness but two or three paragraphs to the lightness and what has changed. In other words focus more on the positive then light, but thoroughly explain the darkness.</p>
<p>While I certainly wouldn’t discourage the discussion of religion in your essay, I warn that the essay should be about YOU. I also agree that the essay should not be used to explain your GPA. Your essay should show the admissions office who you are, what you love, what you aspire to, what you cant live without, why you deserve admission. There will be other places on the application where you can explain your GPA. Usually, if not on the common app, college supplements usually have a section where they ask “Are there any extenuating circumstances that we should take into account when evaluating your application?” Your GC can also shed light on your specific circumstances in their recommendation/evaluation. Best of luck.</p>
<p>@ajoo95- That would have made a great allegory, but I’m not religious :p</p>
<p>Thank you all for your advice!</p>
<p>I think this would fit better in the “additional information” section. That’s where most people explain this sort of thing. As long as you keep it short, they’ll read it.</p>