Optional Essay

[Guest]

Hi there,

I am wondering about the format/content of the optional essays. One of my recommenders is a former supervisor, not the most recent. This is because I spent the most time working for her (my other managers were all less than 12mths, due to company restructures and resignation). We remain in contact and she is aware of my progress - in my opinion she is best placed to provide my recommendation.
In addition, my ugrad GPA score was pretty dismal - it doesn't reflect my professional achievements, nor my recent strong GMAT score. I feel that this is the weakest part of my application, and feel this should be addressed in the optional essay.
What is your recommendation on content of the optional essay? Should I include an explanation of both my recommender choice as well as my GPA or use one only?

Thank you.

[MBAApply]

Address both in the optional essay. It's about disclosure and acknowledgement more than it is about rationalization and justification -- so keep it succinct and to the point.

Alex Chu
alex@mbaapply.com
www.mbaapply.com
http://mbaapply.blogspot.com