<p>I just took a look at the Yale supplement and noticed the bit about an optional essay. Is this really optional, or is it pretty much a requirement. I think the essay and short answer will be enough for me, but I don't want to appear incomplete or uninterested.</p>
<p>Optional if you don't want to get in, in my opinion. I think I remember talking with an Adcom about it whose attitude was along the lines of "Why wouldn't you take another opportunity to let us hear things in your own voice and identify you as unique?"</p>
<p>I didn't do it. I got in.</p>
<p>It couldn't hurt to do it...but it's definitely not a requirement.</p>
<p>well don't i feel dumb now haha</p>
<p>like i said though, just one more chance to show what you've got</p>
<p>The thing about college essays is that your first one is rarely your best. Once you've written a couple you'll find more than one good one that you would want to use ( I wrote 5 total and narrowed the ones I wanted to use down to 3 ). When you've spent quality time preparing your application, you should find no shortage of information or essays to share with adcoms.</p>
<p>Would it be acceptable to write an essay about the inspiration for an activity I started in the 11th grade? I started an oral history program in my town, and the project's inspiration would make a great essay. I just wonder if it matters that I've only been involved in the activity since the beginning of my junior year. Any thoughts?</p>
<p>what are your stats that you did not write an essay and still got in?</p>