<p>So I'm just about ready to hand my application in, but I decided not to write an optional essay for the "what have you created" prompt, and my dad is telling me this is a bad idea. I have the main essay, and a supplemental one on running (xc/track). But, my dad says that I really have to write the other one because MIT really values creativity and I would be at a disadvantage without one. I dunno though, if I wrote one now it might be a little forced, but I guess I could think of something creative.</p>
<p>How much does not writing this essay disadvantage you from the other applicants? THanks for the replies</p>
<p>It’s optional, so not writing won’t be a disadvantage at all. If you don’t have anything meaningful that can be added through writing the essay then don’t force it; the admissions staff is extremely busy, and don’t want to be rereading the same things that you’ve said somewhere else. That being said, if you have something meaningful you can add to your application, it could help a lot.</p>
<p>Really, don't make things up if you think you don't have anything pressing to say. The MIT admission process and the application is really as transparent as you think it is - if they say it's optional, then it's REALLY optional. It's just if you have done something really significant and you felt led to talk about it, then you should utilize your space effectively.</p>
<p>I don't have anything super cool to write about ( either some website i made for my art stuff or robotics labeling for the robot that everyone else refuses to do)
can i leave it blank for now
and maybe submit one after the deadline?
even if it won't be reviewed for EA, will they look at it for Regular Action?</p>
<p>I can see what your dad is thinking. You aren't exactly disadvantaging yourself, but you're losing a good chance to set yourself apart in MIT's super competitive pool. I mean, if there are two guys with similar stats, scores, and ECs but one guy has written about how he spent a year writing a chess engine or something and how much he learned from the process, who do you think they are gonna take? MIT does value creativity, initiative, and a desire to learn so if I were you I'd put something down unless you've already got a superb resume thats stand out. It can't hurt.</p>
<p>oh well I've submitted it already, and I don't think I was going to write anything too meaningful/significant in the next few days. Maybe I'll send one in if I get deferred EA. Thanks for the advice though</p>