Optional short essay: to do or not to do?

Applying to College
1

<p>Hey,</p>

<p>On some of the applications that I have (ND and Northwestern) there is an optional writing you can do of 150 words if you feel you have "missed something".</p>

<p>7th grade through my junior year I struggled knee problems - I had 3 surguries in that time period - while trying to pursue my basketball aspirations. All the rehab, lifting, and extra b-ball practice pretty much consumed my life for a few years -- and as a result, my other ECs are not what they could have been.</p>

<p>My question is this: Is my experience relevant information for the application? And, if so, how should I convey it? Through the optional 150 word writing? Have my former basketball coach write a letter to touch on it some? Other ways? </p>

<p>Thx.</p>

2

<p>to me your circumstances is rather tough to be written in 150 words. maybe you can ask your coach to write? a supplementary letter.</p>

3

<p>So you think I should definitely include that info?</p>