need advice from parents about nasa sharp application!

<p>I would like to apply to nasa sharp. Right now i am a rising junior. I looked at the application and it only asks for one 300 word essay on technology.</p>

<p>Here is my problem. Due to personal issues I am forced commute a little over hour to a public school. My grades/test scores are not as good as some of the other applicants because of this(and other various family issues). </p>

<p>The only reason i thought i would have a chance at sharp is because i read they place less emphasis on grades and more emphasis on socio-economic backgrounds etc compared to other summer programs. </p>

<p>Would it be ok if i wrote an additional essay explaining my circumstances? Is there a more appropriate way of letting them know about this? Do you think it will have a large impact on their decision?</p>

<p>thanks</p>

<p>The program is intended to involve underrepresented groups in engineering and science so complete the application and write a great essay...they are looking for potential not necessarily past accomplishments...</p>

<p>that right Lbtg--my D was accepted to NASA summer of 2003. She loved it. The advice from frazzleddad is right--complete the application and right a great truthful essay!!! It was a great experience for her!! Good luck</p>

<p>maybe i didnt phrase my question correctly</p>

<p>the application only asks for one 300 word essay related to technology.( <a href="http://www.mtsibase.com/sharp/afterclose.html%5B/url%5D"&gt;http://www.mtsibase.com/sharp/afterclose.html&lt;/a> )</p>

<p>how would i be able to inform them of my special circumstances (family problems + little over an hour commute to school)</p>

<p>if i didnt inform them of these circumstances i wouldnt stand a chance. Im a white male. Im poor but i dont think that will be enough to seperate me from the rejects. Would a supplemental essay be ok even if they didnt ask for one on the app? If so how long should it be?</p>

<p>Ask the people writing the recommendations to include the info.</p>