<p>While I don't feel my chances at harvard are particularly good, I am applying. I was about to submit my application and supplement, but then I got to thinking about the optional essay. They make it seem truly optional, but I'm wondering whether I should actually put some effort in and write a good essay to try to help me out. So, how important do you guys think the extra essay is, are you doing it, and should I do it?</p>
<p>Also, I know they wanted the app in by dec 1, will it hurt me to submit it today or later?</p>
<p>i meant essay, not essays in the title</p>
<p>I did the essay. And you should too. It's a chance to take initiate, and reveal more about yourself. You don't even have to write an entirely new essay, you can recycle another college essay, possibly with some amendments. Put some effort into it and it just might make the difference between you and that other generic applicant.</p>
<p>It will not hurt to submit it after December 1 (as long as you get it in by the deadline), but they prefer if you submit the common app part, and then send in your additional essay later so they can start arranging interviews.</p>
<p>I would definitely do it. I wrote mine and submitted it a week or so ago with the supplement.</p>