If you complete your personal statement and still feel that you have more to share, an optional statement
provides you with an opportunity to do so
. Here is our advice to determine whether submitting an optional statement is the right choice for your application.
How do you write an optional statement?
- The best defense is a good offense. …
- Offer context for a low GPA. …
- Address recommender choice. …
- Show that you have grown. …
- Offer any excuses or blame. …
- Write a novel. …
- Ramble on to other areas. …
- Address problems that don't exist.
What is an optional personal statement?
Let's start with a definition: Optional essays are
essays that the school lists in the application in addition to the personal statement
. They can come in many shapes and sizes: “Describe how you will add to the diversity of the student body at XYZ Law School.”
Should I write an optional diversity statement?
Yes, every applicant is required to write a personal statement explaining their transition into law school, but law schools like to throw out the phrase “
optional
” when it comes to writing additional essays.
What is an optional essay?
“Optional” essays which aren't optional
Writing the optional essay
demonstrates that a student has initiative and is serious about attending
. In addition, a strong “optional” essay gives the admissions officer more information to consider in their decision.
What does a good personal statement look like?
Tell the reader why you're applying – include your ambitions, as well as what interests you about the subject, the course provider, and higher education.
Think about what makes you suitable
– this could be relevant experience, skills, or achievements you've gained from education, work, or other activities.
How do you start a personal statement about yourself?
Start with why you're the perfect fit for a place on your course. Mention the most important aspects of your relevant
skills
and experience early. Prove the points you've introduced – it's here you'd talk about your current and previous studies, your skills, and your work experience.
Is an optional statement?
If you complete your personal statement and still feel that you have more to share, an optional statement
provides you with an opportunity to do so
. … A personal statement is required. An optional statement, as the name suggests, is not.
What should I write for Tmdsas optional essay?
- PROBLEMS WITHIN YOUR APPLICATION. A well-written optional essay can explain and compensate for the shortcomings of your application. …
- PERSONAL STORIES. …
- FAMILY CIRCUMSTANCES. …
- DIVERSITY & CULTURAL COMPETENCE. …
- UNIQUE ACHIEVEMENTS.
Should I answer optional questions on college application?
For serious applicants, completing optional components of your applications are
about as optional as brushing your teeth
. Likewise, leaving optional fields blank on college applications, especially at competitive institutions, will undoubtedly decay your prospects of winning the admissions game.
What is a diversity statement examples?
Example 1:
“Diversity is important but I can't do it because my discipline is based on dead white men
.” Example 2: Or “I believe in diversity, but I have not been in a leadership position where I might make decisions. I would be supportive if there were some people of colour.”
What is a good diversity statement?
A diversity statement is a personal essay that is a
depiction of your past experiences
and explains how these experiences have contributed to your personal and professional growth. It allows the applicant the opportunity to explain to a search committee the distinct qualities and commitment s/he can bring to the table.
How long is a diversity statement?
In general, I would recommend anything
between 100-150 words
would be enough to share your belief, experience, and future plan about diversity. It is an important topic, but a lot can be said within 150 words or 3 paragraphs.
How long should an optional essay be?
Before you go, here are a few final quick tips and tricks to always keep in mind if you do write an optional essay: DO stick to the word limit (if none, it shouldn't be longer than your personal statement).
About 250 words will usually suffice
.
Are optional law school essays really optional?
It is truly an optional statement
and you will not be penalized for choosing not to submit one. Many law schools offer applicants the opportunity to use a separate “Why ‘X Law School'?” essay in order to articulate specific reasons why the applicant believes the school would be a strong fit.
How do you end a common app essay?
- Make it memorable. An essay conclusion should aim to stay in the reader's mind whether that's because it's a great story, the thought of what may come next or you've left a resounding impression. …
- Think ahead. …
- Avoid making jokes. …
- Get feedback. …
- Further information.
