Yes or No: P. 217 Essay

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of Pennsylvania
1

<p>So, I'm applying to Penn CAS, still undecided as to ED or not, and I'm debating whether or not to do the optional page 217 autobiographical essay. I realize that it's truly optional - I know at least two kids who've been accepted without writing it - but I'm nevertheless unsure as to what I should do.</p>

<p>I have a particularly long Common App essay - 2.5 pages double spaced at size 11, and I feel like between the personal statement, required supplemental essay, and short answer Common App, I've essentially covered most of the bases. Beyond that... the P217 might just be able to help me better address career goals in research, and possibly highlight the fact that I did research at UPenn this past summer. Nevertheless, I'm not sure if it's really worth the work and will make all that much of a difference.</p>

<p>What do y'all think?</p>

<p>(I've included basic credentials just for perspective.)
Basic stats:
3.96 GPA (unweighted)
National Merit Semifinalist
10 APs
800 Math - 790 Reading - 780 Writing
Debate captain (plus national recognition)
Newspaper editor
Principal cellist in school orchestra
Private piano instructor
Varsity tennis</p>

2

<p>Only do it if you make it really good. If you are not going to put the effort in don’t bother. I do not think it will hurt you if you do not do it but it could help if you do a really great job and bring something interesting and fresh to the table.</p>

3

<p>Wow! A cellist? Yay! I’m principal cellist of the Penn Symphony, so consider this a shameless recruitment plug: Come to Penn =)</p>

<p>In any event, absolutely, unequivocally do the optional essay. Not doing it sends adcoms the message that Penn isn’t a priority. I have no doubt you can put in an adequate effort, so just do it!</p>

4

<p>Wow, I suddenly feel hopelessly inadequate. At least skillwise as a cellist. Advice well taken; I think I will do it… although it’ll probably be related to stem cells or something.</p>

5

<p>Why hopelessly inadequate? Ridiculous. Your credentials are Ivy material through and through.</p>