<p>While the optional essay is obviously optional, I feel that sending it in would be beneficial as I only have a 3.7 cumulative unweighted and 700CR/680M/710W. (I'm not sure how far being a not-very-stereotypical Asian and attending one of the top 400 public high schools will get me.) At the moment, my essay about reinventing my school is a bit of a diasaster (rambling about how people in my city are some of the most privileged people on the planet, pressure from wealthy and well-educated parents, and racial divisions), and it's tempting to go with the other option and write about something fun outside of school that I've done. The most interesting topic that I can think of is a study abroad program I did. However, my essay for the common app is also about the study abroad program. Is it okay to write a second essay about studying abroad, as long as I address a different aspect of my trip? Or is it better to keep working on the essay about my school, so that they know more about my perspective and where I come from?</p>
<p>Also, I've just put in a request for an interview. If asked about my music taste, should I avoid mentioning that I like a band where two of the members are Pomona graduates?</p>
<p>If you're having difficulty with topic a, topic b might be the better choice. When you think of something fun, it doesn't have to be something obvious, e.g., study abroad program. It could be something rather mundane, e.g., having fun with your friends or something you like to do on weekends. For all you know, it could even be sleeping in late on a Saturday morning!</p>
<p>Why should you avoid mentioning the band with the two Pomona grads? You should be who you are, and if you truly like the band, then mention them as well as other bands whose music you enjoy.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>i wouldn't do 2 essays on the same subject (study abroad), because it makes you look like you don't have much else to talk about. i would finish the reinvent my school essay because it really gives admissions a window into who you are and what you are looking for in a school (hint, hint)... don't write what you think they want to hear, but rather how you really feel, but be constructive. it is o.k. to say what you don't like as long as you say what you would do to make it better... also, reinventing your school shouldn't be a rant about the privileged people, but rather about what your ideal school is... good luck!</p>
<p>hmmm yeah, I don't think its a great idea to write about the same topic twice. if you want to use that prompt think of something else</p>