How to Use Additional Information on Common App: A Comprehensive Guide with Examples
If you’re a high school senior applying for college, chances are you’re using the Common Application (also known as Common App) to streamline the process. One of the features of this application is the Additional Information section, which allows you to provide context and highlight important aspects of your background to admissions officers. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain how to use the Additional Information section effectively, with examples to help you get started.
What is the Additional Information section?
The Additional Information section of the Common App allows you to share any relevant information about your academic, personal, or extracurricular background that may not have been covered in other sections of the application. This can include anything from learning differences or special circumstances to an explanation of a low GPA or unfinished grades. The section also provides a space for you to share achievements or experiences that are important to you but may not fit elsewhere in your application.
How to Use the Additional Information section
Before you start filling out the Additional Information section, it’s important to understand the purpose of this section. This section is not meant to be a place to reiterate what’s already on your application, nor is it intended to be a space to complain or make excuses. Rather, it’s an opportunity for you to provide context and additional information that may help admissions officers gain a better understanding of who you are and what you bring to their college community.
With this in mind, here are some tips for using the Additional Information section:
1. Be concise and to the point
Admissions officers have a lot of applications to read through, so it’s important to keep your Additional Information section brief and focused. Stick to the key points and avoid getting into too much detail.
2. Use professional language
While you want to be authentic and true to yourself, it’s important to communicate in a professional manner. Avoid using slang or informal language that may be off-putting to admissions officers.
3. Be honest and transparent
If you have a particular circumstance or challenge that has impacted your academic performance, don’t be afraid to address it in the Additional Information section. However, it’s important to be honest and transparent, and avoid making excuses or blaming others.
4. Highlight achievements and experiences
The Additional Information section is also a great place to highlight achievements or experiences that you may not have been able to include elsewhere in your application. For example, you might use this space to talk about a research project or a community service effort that was particularly meaningful to you.
Examples of Effective Additional Information Sections
To help you get an idea of how to effectively use the Additional Information section, here are some examples:
Example 1: Explanation of a Drop in Grades
“My sophomore year, I experienced a personal tragedy that had a significant impact on my academic performance. While I was able to maintain passing grades, my GPA suffered. Since then, I have been working with a therapist and have developed strategies to better cope with my grief. I am proud to say that my grades have improved steadily since then.”
Example 2: Highlighting a Passion
“I am an avid marathon runner, and have completed three marathons in the past two years. Running has become a crucial part of my life, providing me with a sense of accomplishment and a much-needed outlet for stress. I believe that my discipline and determination on the pavement translate directly to my academic and personal pursuits, and I hope to continue to pursue my passion as a part of the college community.”
Conclusion
The Additional Information section of the Common App can be a valuable tool for communicating important aspects of your background to admissions officers. By following the tips outlined above and providing thoughtful, concise information, you can help provide context and highlight your achievements and experiences. Remember, this section is about adding value to your application, not simply repeating what’s already been said.
