The Common App's "Additional Information" section can be a powerful tool, allowing you to address any concerns admissions committees might have or to highlight aspects of your application that weren't fully captured elsewhere. This isn't a required section, but using it strategically can significantly boost your chances. This post will explore effective strategies and provide a compelling Common App additional information example.
When to Use the Additional Information Section
This section isn't meant for padding your application. Use it judiciously. Here are key scenarios where it shines:
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Explaining Gaps or Inconsistencies: Did you have a drop in grades? A break in your extracurricular activities? This is the place to provide context and demonstrate your resilience. Avoid making excuses; instead, focus on lessons learned and growth.
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Highlighting Unique Circumstances: Did you face significant challenges, like a family emergency or a health issue, that impacted your academic performance or extracurricular involvement? Use this space to humanize your application and demonstrate your ability to overcome adversity.
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Providing Further Detail on a Passion: Did you briefly mention a significant project or achievement in another section? The additional information section lets you expand, showcasing your dedication and skills in more detail.
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Addressing a Misunderstanding: If there's anything in your application that could be misinterpreted, this section provides clarification.
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Showcasing a Significant Achievement Not Elsewhere Highlighted: Did you win a prestigious award that wasn't explicitly mentioned elsewhere? This section offers a platform to feature it.
What NOT to Include in Additional Information
Avoid using this space for:
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Repeating Information: Don't reiterate what's already in your essays or other application components.
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Making Excuses: Focus on solutions and growth, not blaming external factors.
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Including Unnecessary Details: Keep it concise and focused on the most relevant information.
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Addressing Minor Issues: Save this space for significant matters that warrant explanation.
Common App Additional Information Example: The Unexpected Internship
Let's say your application highlights your passion for environmental science, but your extracurricular activities primarily focus on academic clubs and volunteering. You could use the additional information section to explain how you secured an unexpected, unpaid internship at a local environmental non-profit, despite limited prior professional experience.
Example:
"While my extracurricular activities primarily reflect my academic pursuits within environmental science, I seized an unexpected opportunity this past summer. Through networking at a university environmental conference, I secured an unpaid internship at the Green Initiatives Project. Despite the lack of formal experience, my dedication and proactive approach led to significant contributions, including [mention specific tasks and quantifiable results – e.g., 'developing a social media campaign that increased engagement by 30%']. This experience solidified my commitment to environmental conservation and demonstrated my ability to navigate a professional setting with initiative and resourcefulness."
This example showcases:
- A specific achievement: The internship and its results.
- Context: Explains why this achievement isn't prominently featured elsewhere.
- Growth and learning: Highlights skills and dedication.
- Conciseness: Keeps the explanation brief and impactful.
Crafting a Compelling Additional Information Statement
- Be Concise: Keep it brief and to the point (under 200 words is ideal).
- Be Specific: Use concrete examples and quantifiable results.
- Be Honest and Authentic: Let your personality shine through.
- Proofread Carefully: Errors undermine your credibility.
The Common App's additional information section offers a valuable opportunity to enrich your application. By strategically addressing concerns or highlighting unique achievements, you can showcase your full potential and leave a lasting impression on admissions committees. Remember to always tailor your response to your individual circumstances and ensure it adds value to your overall application.
