How to teeter the line between explanation and complaining?

[deleted993132]

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In a couple of secondaries the question of "explain this xyz bad grade" comes up. I have a W and a D that I would love to give context to because I worked full time throughout college however I can never find the right words to explain this. I fear that if I'm entirely honest it will give off the impression that I am whiny or I can't handle pressure. Any tips or do's and do nots for those looking to explain but not complain?? Thank You!

 

[Goro]

Telling the truth is usually the best response.

Your situation is also really, really common.

 

[deleted993132]

Telling the truth is usually the best response.

Your situation is also really, really common.

Thanks for your input! This is exactly my main concern that if I lean into the "worked a lot" thing too much I fear that the response will be, "well plenty of other people work full time so this is just an excuse for poor grades!"

 

[Goro]

Thanks for your input! This is exactly my main concern that if I lean into the "worked a lot" thing too much I fear that the response will be, "well plenty of other people work full time so this is just an excuse for poor grades!"

Classic overthinking

 

[LunaOri]

Working full time and becoming overextended is something that adcoms can understand. One D will not sink your application (what course was it in?)