The University of Washington has a “required” essay topic, as well as 2 “optional” supplementary essay topics.
Would they rather me just do the required essay topic or include extra pages for the 2 optional ones?
<p>I wouldn't write the optional essays unless you make sure they are interesting in some way... so that they aren't just "extra paper" for the adcoms to read through. Also don't write them if you don't think they wont add anything to your profile. But a benefit of writing them, and writing them well, is that you will be able to show your interest in the school. You took the extra time to write these extra essays. I'd do them.</p>
<p>I wrote on the second of their questions. The "Obstacle you've had to overcome" essay.</p>
<p>I figure when they say, "We encourage" that really means, "Please do." Good luck at UW though. Might see you in Montlake next year.</p>
<p>Hey, how much are you writing for the short answer questions that ask you to explain your EC's? I've been doing 3-5 sentences for each one (five total).</p>
<p>I just finished and sent out the app, I decided to opt to not do the optional essays because I feel like they would come out as just padding and I wouldn't do a good job on them. </p>
<p>For the cover letter you mean? I put down the activity, the hours, then I made like a 6-7 sentence paragraph with the responsibilities and my input on it. I only put 3 because they were my strongest (all having to do with animals, zoology is my major).</p>
<p>I doubt I will get accepted :( cuz i'm just like that I doubt I will get accepted to any of the 8 schools I will be applying to AHH</p>