Maximizing Your Additional Information Section on the Common App: Examples and Tips
As you fill out your Common App, you might feel that the Additional Information section is just a place to dump any excess information that doesn’t fit elsewhere. However, this section can be a powerful tool to showcase your unique strengths and experiences! In this article, we’ll explore how to make the most of the Additional Information section on the Common App, with examples and tips to guide you.
What Is the Additional Information Section?
The Additional Information section is an optional part of the Common Application, where you can provide details that don’t fit within the main sections of the application. This section can be used to explain extenuating circumstances, provide context for your achievements, or share additional experiences that make you stand out.
How to Use the Additional Information Section
When filling out the Additional Information section, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. First, make sure that the information you are providing is truly important and relevant to your application. Don’t include trivial or unnecessary details that don’t add value.
Second, use this section to provide context or explanation where needed. For example, if your grades were negatively affected by a personal circumstance, you could use this section to explain what happened and how you overcame it. Similarly, if you have a unique skill or achievement that isn’t reflected elsewhere, this section can be a great opportunity to showcase it.
Examples of Effective Use of the Additional Information Section
Let’s dive into some examples of how you can use the Additional Information section effectively:
– If you had a major illness or injury during your high school years that affected your grades, explain the situation and how you overcame it. This can be especially helpful for admissions officers to understand any potential challenges you faced.
– If you have significant extracurricular activities that you were unable to fit elsewhere in the application, use the Additional Information section to provide more detail and showcase your passions and commitments.
– If you come from a non-traditional background or have unique life experiences that give you a different perspective than most applicants, use this section to share your story and explain why it sets you apart.
Tips for Maximizing Your Use of the Additional Information Section
Finally, here are some tips to keep in mind as you fill out the Additional Information section:
– Be concise: You don’t want to overwhelm the admissions officers with too much information. Stick to the most important points and keep your explanations brief.
– Use bullets: If you have several items to list, use bullet points rather than a paragraph of text. This makes it easier for the admissions officers to scan through your information quickly.
– Be positive: Keep your tone positive and avoid using this section as an opportunity to make excuses or complain.
Conclusion
In summary, the Additional Information section on the Common App can be a powerful tool to showcase your unique strengths and experiences. By following the tips and examples outlined in this article, you can make the most of this section and stand out as a strong candidate for college admissions.
