I was deferred EA, and I didn’t do the optional essay.
Should I write the optional essay and send it in, or should I not?
Write it if you have something to say. Don’t if not.
Would the admissions committee be irritated if I sent in the optional essay?
It can’t hurt if it is a good essay. More accomplishments would probably help more. UChicago defers a lot of students, and only accepts a small number of those. You can keep sending them stuff, but make sure you give your other apps the focus they deserve, as your odds are higher at those schools.
I’ve already emailed my admissions counselor with all of my updated accomplishments. i’ve published another book (just got my first check for the funds earned!), won 7 more debate awards, starred in a school sketch comedy, founded a club, wrote another book, and became VP of a club. I’m signing up to interview, so maybe I’ll write the essay and see how it looks from there…
My other applications are all done, thank goodness.