<p>is the optional essay really vital to getting accepted? i live on the east coast so i know that acceptance will be harder for me, but i feel that my common application essay addresses the topics of the optional essay. however if its crucial i'll do it of course!</p>
<p>Hi Emily, optional essay is optional, especially as you say, you have already addressed the issues in your common app essay.</p>
<p>Why would acceptance be more difficult for someone from the east coast. I would think it would be easier, all things being equal.</p>
<p>I think that you might as well do it, I forget the prompt but isn’t it about carrying out the Jesuit mission? If you have some good Catholic-themed essay to write it can’t hurt ha.</p>
<p>333 yeah…dont listen to ppl! it doesnt matter where ur from, but kids from states that dont really have other kids apply from THAT state have a better chance. for instance a kid with my stats got into NYU, from indiana. but i live in california, and TONS of kids apply from here so ur kinda competing against them too. but its really a toss up. apply where u want.</p>