Should I Do the Optional Essay for College Application? And Why Not Consider Writing It While Wearing a Unicorn Onesie?

Should I Do the Optional Essay for College Application? And Why Not Consider Writing It While Wearing a Unicorn Onesie?

When it comes to college applications, the optional essay often feels like the cherry on top of an already overwhelming sundae. Should you add it? Should you skip it? And, more importantly, could wearing a unicorn onesie while writing it somehow boost your creativity? Let’s dive into the multifaceted world of optional essays and explore why this seemingly small decision can have a big impact on your application.

1. The Opportunity to Stand Out

The optional essay is exactly that—optional. But in a sea of applicants with similar GPAs, test scores, and extracurriculars, it’s a golden opportunity to differentiate yourself. Think of it as your chance to tell the admissions committee, “Hey, I’m more than just numbers and a list of activities.” It’s your space to share a story, a perspective, or a passion that didn’t fit into the rest of your application. And if that story involves a quirky hobby like collecting vintage lunchboxes or training squirrels to do parkour, even better.

2. Demonstrating Interest and Effort

Submitting an optional essay signals to the admissions committee that you’re serious about their institution. It shows that you’re willing to go the extra mile to present yourself in the best possible light. This can be particularly impactful for schools that value demonstrated interest. Plus, it’s a subtle way to say, “I really want to be here, and I’m willing to put in the work to prove it.”

3. Addressing Potential Weaknesses

Not every application is perfect. Maybe you had a rough semester due to personal circumstances, or perhaps your test scores don’t fully reflect your academic abilities. The optional essay can serve as a platform to address these issues head-on. It’s your chance to provide context and explain why that one blip on your transcript doesn’t define you. Just remember to keep it concise and focus on how you’ve grown from the experience.

4. Showcasing Your Writing Skills

Let’s face it: writing is a skill that’s valued in almost every field. By submitting an optional essay, you’re giving the admissions committee a glimpse of your ability to communicate effectively. A well-crafted essay can demonstrate your creativity, critical thinking, and ability to articulate complex ideas. And if you can make them laugh or cry in the process? Even better.

5. Exploring a Unique Angle

The optional essay allows you to explore topics that might not fit into the standard prompts. Maybe you want to talk about your obsession with astrophysics, your journey as a competitive yo-yoer, or how you once organized a flash mob in your local library. These unique angles can make your application memorable and give the admissions committee a deeper understanding of who you are as a person.

6. The Risk of Overdoing It

While the optional essay can be a powerful tool, it’s not without its risks. If your essay feels forced, repetitive, or irrelevant, it could do more harm than good. The key is to ensure that your essay adds value to your application. If you’re just rehashing information that’s already covered elsewhere, it might be better to skip it. Quality always trumps quantity.

7. Time Management Considerations

Let’s not forget that college applications are a time-consuming process. Writing an optional essay requires time and effort, and you need to weigh whether that investment is worth it. If you’re already stretched thin, it might be better to focus on perfecting your required essays and other application components. On the other hand, if you have a compelling story to tell and the time to tell it well, the optional essay could be a worthwhile endeavor.

8. The Unicorn Onesie Factor

Now, let’s address the elephant—or rather, the unicorn—in the room. Could wearing a unicorn onesie while writing your optional essay actually help? While there’s no scientific evidence to support this, there’s something to be said for creating a comfortable and inspiring environment. If slipping into a whimsical outfit helps you get into the right headspace, why not? After all, creativity often thrives in unconventional settings.

9. The Final Decision

Ultimately, the decision to write an optional essay comes down to your individual circumstances. If you have something meaningful to share that will enhance your application, go for it. If not, don’t force it. Remember, the goal is to present an authentic and compelling picture of who you are. Whether you’re wearing a unicorn onesie or not, the most important thing is to stay true to yourself.

Q: Should I write an optional essay if I don’t have anything unique to say?
A: If you don’t have a compelling reason to write the optional essay, it’s better to skip it. Forced or repetitive essays can detract from your application.

Q: Can the optional essay make up for a low GPA or test scores?
A: While it can provide context for any weaknesses in your application, it’s unlikely to completely offset a low GPA or test scores. Focus on highlighting your strengths and growth.

Q: How long should the optional essay be?
A: Typically, optional essays should be concise—around 250-500 words. The goal is to add value without overwhelming the reader.

Q: Is it okay to be humorous in the optional essay?
A: Absolutely, as long as the humor is appropriate and enhances your message. A well-placed joke can make your essay memorable, but avoid overdoing it.

Q: Should I write an optional essay for every school?
A: Not necessarily. Tailor your approach to each school’s requirements and your own circumstances. If an optional essay makes sense for a particular application, go for it. If not, don’t feel obligated.