MSF Optional Essay

I have a few questions about the optional essay part of the MSF application.

First, do I need to address why I'm not using my current manager for a recommendation (using two former professors for recs)? I graduated in June and have only been at my job 2 months so I assume it goes without saying that my manager isn't really the best source. Will adcoms recognize this or do I need to say it?

Second, how in depth do you need to go in explaining extenuating circumstances regarding grades? I dealt with severe depression my first few years of school and my grades suffered because of that. I was on the dean's list every semester after I got help and worked through it.

 

No on the first one, moderately in depth on the second.

Explain why your grades were impacted and how you tackled this problem. Don't spend the whole essay making excuses or dwelling on it. People have issues and those issues cause an impact on performance, but you want to use this as a building experience.

 

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