What am I supposed to talk about in an optional essay?

I'm working on an optional essay that requires for 'additional information that is important in the evaluation of the application'. Then should I talk about some good qualities in me or should I try to explain some of my weak points?

There are only two essays required and I somewhat want to make full use of every essay.

Thank you very much!

9 Comments
 

its mostly used to explain weak points in your resume, like gpa, whatever...

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TsubakiThanks a lot. Then is it ok to talk about my lack in work experience? (Still an undergraduate now.)

They'll probably both know and understand that you lack work experience if you are coming straight out of undergrad. May want to think about using the essays to explain some aspects of your resume further (both defiencies and highlights)

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What if you failed a math class (think calc 2, stats 2), retook it, and made a D the second time...but your cum. gpa is above a 3.35? Is it neccessary to mention that in the optional essay? This for good, but not quant-heavy (ie not princeton, or WUSTL) MSFs.

 

the optional essay should only be used to address big question marks that are not answered elsewhere.

"Good' qualities and/or weaknesses do not fall in that category. I highly encourage you check out Montauk's book, especially with respect to this subject.

The issue of "why the hell is this infant trying to go to business school straight out of undergrad" should be addressed in the stock "why mba/here/now" essay.

No additional required.

A failing grade would be a good candidate, a C would not.

 
Cartwrightthe optional essay should only be used to address big question marks that are not answered elsewhere.

"Good' qualities and/or weaknesses do not fall in that category. I highly encourage you check out Montauk's book, especially with respect to this subject.

The issue of "why the hell is this infant trying to go to business school straight out of undergrad" should be addressed in the stock "why mba/here/now" essay.

No additional required.

A failing grade would be a good candidate, a C would not.

Thank you all for helping!

Then what if I talk about my volunteer experience? as I have done a couple of volunteer work, not related to finance at all. I guess I just feel uneasy if an essay is left blank...

 

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