The optional essay?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Penn State
1

<p>I am hating this optional essay because I really don't want to do it and I'm even having trouble even figuring out what to write, but it is always suggested so I guess I'll do it. I have heard that people used their common app essay in place of this. However, I don't know if my common app essay would really answer the prompt. My essay is basically about my struggle to balance my two cultures and I don't think that would answer the prompt because it isn't really about success. So, do you guys think that I should just still put the essay there or maybe is there anything you think I can add to it..if so, what?</p>

<p>Note: The prompt is, "Please tell us something about yourself, your experiences or activites that you believe would reflect positively on your ability to succeed at Penn State This is your opportunity to tell us something about yourself that is not already reflected in your application or academic records."</p>

2

<p>If you have come to terms with balancing your two cultures, that would count as success in my book.</p>

3

<p>I agree with Slipjig–balancing your two cultures would be a great topic. Remember, it doesn’t have to be very long, either.</p>

4

<p>Thank you for your responses. I was getting worried about this essay because not only did I REALLY not feel like writing it (lol), but also the topic is just so ambiguous, it makes it really difficult to write anyway. So, thank you guys for the reassurance.</p>