Optional Essays Forum

[FutureInLaw]

What are people's thoughts on optional essays? Should they extend beyond DS and "Why x"?

Right now, I'm contemplating whether to do all 3 Northwestern optional essays. Some questions I'm coming across:

1) If the end of your PS touches upon the "Why X", then it's not necessary to do an additional "Why X" essay, correct? That would just be redundant?

2) If your numbers are on the cusp, should I be sure to do all the optional essays?

I was for sure going to do them, but grew hesitant after reading this: http://www.annaivey.com/iveyfiles/2010/ ... s_too_much

[tourdeforcex]

1) if the PS makes the Why X very clear, probably redundant
2) numbers on the cusp, i'd write as many optional as i think would contribute

basically: if compelling and contributes, write; if not, don't

[ATR]

1) if the PS makes the Why X very clear, probably redundant
2) numbers on the cusp, i'd write as many optional as i think would contribute

basically: if compelling and contributes, write; if not, don't

+1