TMDSAS Optional Essay and submission date

[JRod17]

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G'day,

I am finishing up my optional essay for TMDSAS (the personal characteristics one). The first half of my essay described my experience overcoming small stature and others doubt in making the high school varsity football team. Is this okay to write about? I also won an award given to the player that demonstated character, integrity, and effort which I included. The season really was a significant time for me, but I know others have much more substantial experiences they are writing about and it makes me nervous. Thoughts and input appreciated.

Also, I will have the app submitted by this weekend. But is a June 21st submission or so still considered an early submission (i.e. considered for first round of interviews)?

Thanks!

 

[BabyShades]

I am applying to Texas school as well, however I don't think that would be a sufficient essay imo. I believe if the foot ball team carried through college, then it would contribute to diversity. I would say if it is better to leave it blank, then leave it back. Take my advice with a grain of salt though.

 

[tons_of_fart]

Here is what I found in 2005 "At a presentation at the UTMB MSFP program, the director of the TMDSAS stated that most schools prefer that you leave the optional essay unanswered unless you have a very special circumstance. He stated that some schools have even pushed to have it removed. The director of the UTMB admissions committee also stated that it is not looked at unless it is explaining a personal illness or string of bad grades." You can find it here.

 

[JRod17]

That's interesting. I emailed my University dental school advisor and she said that you SHOULD write the personal characteristics essay, while the other one is truly optional. I will follow her advice, as she has never steered me wrong. Perhaps it has changed since 2005. Thanks for the input though!

 

[tons_of_fart]

It's up to you but since you came on this forum to ask, my take on this is to leave it blank for your situation just as what BabyShades stated. If you re-read the optional essay, it asked for a "unique experience" and "challenging experience". Now look at your case, just think about it.

 

[JRod17]

You do have a valid point... Thanks for the advice

 

[Illfavor]

I would never, ever leave an optional essay blank in virtually any case in my life.

 

[DentalLonghorn2014]

Illfavor is right.
Anytime you see "optional essay", it really means "required essay". lol