Optional? Essay

<p>Haha, this is my 2nd thread today (I need a life). But anyway, I've heard people say that the UNC optional essay really isn't too optional. Can anyone clarify on this point. And if it is good to write one, what kind of thing would someone write for it? It seems to ask about any additional experiences and what not, but could someone just put in another one of their essays from another college if they thought it was good?</p>

<p>anyone???</p>

<p>Write something if you have something to say. If you don’t, then don’t write anything.</p>

<p>but say I had a third essay that I thought was good, could I put it there or do you think they wouldn’t like that?</p>

<p>I have not looked at an application to UNC since 2003 so I am not sure how many total essays they require these days.</p>

<p>Don’t exceed what they are asking for or have already approved. If your “good” essay can be the optional essay, then use it. Your essays are the ONLY way they can see beyond the stats and numbers, and the only way you have to humanize yourself.</p>

<p>Adding an extra essay on top of the optional essay would be a mistake. The ADCOMS already have far too much to do and far too many essays to read; it can work against you.</p>

<p>just my $0.02</p>

<p>When I applied last year, I used that as an opportunity to tell the admissions folks about what I thought I couldn’t fit anywhere else. First generation college student? Overcome obstacles? However, be aware of what eadad said though. Make sure you have good subject matter before you write something that just takes some time from the admissions people</p>

<p>ok, thanks a lot guys. I know what I’m gonna write in the optional section now</p>