I'm struggling with the topic of my optional essay and would love to hear everyone's input on it! I've heard mixed opinions about using the optional essay to write about GPA. I understand that you don't want to highlight the "zit" of the application. But here's my situation: I didn't do so great in my undergrad so I took 2 years off working in a lab and by the time I left I was able to submit a paper. Then I went back to school to get my master's and will be graduating with a 4.0. So for this essay, should I highlight the things I've learned through the mistakes I've made in undergrad?
I also heard that some people write about their hobbies for this essay. For me, I've been running 8-miles a day (most days out of the week) ever since high school. Should I use this essay to write about that and what it has taught me (i..e resilience)?
I also heard that some people write about their hobbies for this essay. For me, I've been running 8-miles a day (most days out of the week) ever since high school. Should I use this essay to write about that and what it has taught me (i..e resilience)?