<p>Is there a way to address personal/family problems, such as a serious illness of a family member, on a college applications? I would like to let the colleges know that I had a difficult time dealing with it, and it affected my performance in school. However, I don't want to make it seem like an excuse for mediocre grades...
I would prefer not to write about it in my essay...</p>
<p>Ask your GC to mention it in their evaluation, it's usually easier for a 3rd party to explain the situation. Good luck.</p>
<p>If it's that significant, touching on it in your essay would help. Counselor explanation is way more important, though.</p>
<p>Good luck.</p>