Suggestions about Appeal content

<p>So I have a very general question about the whole appeal process. I'm going based off mostly the information Ms. Sun provided in Ms</a>. Sun's UC Admissions Blog - Transfer Appeal Guidelines.</p>

<p>It says the appeal is intended for new and compelling information, which I do have. It's solely related to my academics though. Been talking to counselors and friends who also agree I have a strong case. Recently, however, I was diagnosed with cancer. It's very treatable, and I'm scheduled to have surgery soon.</p>

<p>I guess I'm looking outside opinions more than anything, given the word limit for an appeal. I haven't had to deal with any chemo or radiation stuff yet, so there's not much to write about in terms of "hardships." So most of what I'd write about would come from the feelings, thoughts, and revelations that came with the knowledge of having cancer.</p>

<p>I want the focus to be on the new academic information and not the cancer, and even doing the above would be tricky. I feel it'd be kind of awkward to, among the new academic info, throw in the cancer stuff. It'd feel very superficial/cursory.</p>

<p>So do you think I should keep it only to the academic info, split it half-way with the diagnosis, or maybe just mention the diagnosis in passing? Any and all advice appreciated. </p>

<p>Thanks in advance!</p>

<p>If I was you, I would write about the cancer first, how it will not affect who I am and will be as a student/person, and ultimately back that up with your previous academic performances. Like the personal statement, you should appeal to whoever read your appeal that no matter what happens, you will be strong and you can overcome this. People don’t like to see begging. They probably see thousands of those appeal letters. Make your case stand out by showing your confidence to overcome any obstacles. Good luck!</p>

<p>Thanks!
And you know what, I had a sort of epiphany last night about how to link the two together, and it’s pretty much what you’re suggesting. You’re right about the begging. The last think I want it to be is a “waa cancer poor me pity me pls,” thing, even in subtext.</p>

<p>I hate to be the guy who bumps his own thread, that said I’m still doing it. Anyone else have any other insight? Have a quasi-end product that seems more encompassing than what I had before, following Waterox’s suggestions and some of my own ideas.</p>