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I was just wondering if it would be a good idea to do this if you are unsure about your chances at a school. I feel like it could only help.

Can't hurt, might help.

Sourpunch wrote:Can't hurt, might help.

Actually, it can hurt, depending on the school. The HLS Admissions dean, for one, said that a "Why Harvard?" essay weakens an application. IMO, people on here tend to be too caviler about throwing extra materials in with their app. There are adcomms (and professors, who review apps at some schools) who get annoyed at unsolicited essays. Be cautious.

sotomayor wrote:I was just wondering if it would be a good idea to do this if you are unsure about your chances at a school. I feel like it could only help.

depends on the school... and there is a slight downside (it wont hurt like an F will, but it can detract from the rest of your application if it's not very compelling [and most Why X essays aren't])

good points. but is it not possible that maybe if you mention some of the programs that are specific to the school and why you are interested in those programs that an essay like that can help. especially if youre trying to show actual interest and trying to separate yourself from other applicants who threw an app at the school just to see if they would get in.

Would it hurt at Cornell? It's my absolute dream school - even if I had a 175 plus LSAT, I'd only have eyes for Ithaca. I've already written my essay, but I want to know if it could hurt somehow - they give you a 3-line Why Cornell question in the application, but that's not nearly enough.

don't send things that are not asked for!

(except for LOCI after enough time has passed)

It depends on the school. I wouldn't send one if they give you the option of a second optional essay and you choose not to write it. I also wouldn't send more than your PS + one additional essay. Else may be overkill