Boston University Optional Essay Forum

[kitmitzi]

"In addition to your personal statement, you may wish to provide another essay. This essay is your opportunity to discuss any background of your background or life experience that you believe will enhance your ability to contribute to the diverse BU classroom experience and community."

This seems to be asking for a diversity statement, but might be phrased to be more open ended. I have no claims to diversity in any way, so would it be best to leave blank? I don't want to hurt my chances by leaving it blank, and I suppose I could write something about traveling or studying abroad...but that will probably seem boring and trite compared to other people's optional essays.

So: leave it blank or might as well get a few extra words in?

[JJDancer]

Leave it unless well-crafted.

[hncsarge34]

I left it blank and was accepted. I would just focus on making your personal statement a strong as possible.

[kkklick]

These optional essays are death traps. They are best avoided unless your situation fits exactly what they are looking for.