The Challenge Essay Question

[pillowsnice]

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How significant of a challenge is appropriate for this type of essay? Can it be something like not being accepted into a club during undergrad or should it be something more serious like the death of a grandparent?

 

[777137]

Well in my opinion, it has to be something that was significant in your life. If the club was just a thing to do and you didn't get in, don't mention it. If the grandparent was significant and you can explain its effects, go with that. It doesn't need to be some Shakespearean drama, but it should be something that had a fairly large effect on you.

 

[Nontradunderdog]

Yeah there is no standard answer as it will vary greatly among applicants in the pool. 1st time traditional applicant biggest challenge may be moving OOS for undergrad, where as a reapplicant the previous cycle and no acceptances could be theirs and a non-trad like myself may be work related or juggling school and family. Just be honest and try not to put exaggerated emphasis.

 

[MilaKunisDoe]

Tell them the time when you talked to your crush for months and in the end she told you that she just wanted to be friends

 

[pillowsnice]

Well in my opinion, it has to be something that was significant in your life. If the club was just a thing to do and you didn't get in, don't mention it. If the grandparent was significant and you can explain its effects, go with that. It doesn't need to be some Shakespearean drama, but it should be something that had a fairly large effect on you.

The club was something that I tried to do twice, but failed twice. It was very competitive on campus and I really wanted to do what the club was doing. I didn't give in though and sought out other ways I can do what the club did but off campus. I succeeded in that and am still participating in it. So it was kind of important to me and it was a let down when I didn't get in twice.
The grandparent was also significant of course, but I feel like every applicant can relate to a grandparent passing away, so I am also hesitant. I was very close to my grandma and her passing was fairly sudden and quick. It took me about a month to get over, but friends and family definitely helped support me.

Which would be a better topic?

 

[njtrimed]

The adversity essay is usually optional. If there is no obvious answer, just skip it.