Should I Answer the COVID-19 Question on the Common App? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Not a Trick Question!)
Ah, the Common App. It’s that glorious, soul-crushing beast of a college application, filled with essays that make you question your life choices and a section dedicated to listing your extracurriculars (which, let’s face it, probably involves a lot of “watching Netflix” after all those AP classes). But then there’s the dreaded, ever-so-slightly-intimidating COVID-19 question. The one that makes you wonder, “Should I even bother?”
Well, my fellow college application warriors, let’s dive into the murky waters of this question and see if we can’t find some clarity. Firstly, take a deep breath, because it’s not as scary as it seems. The Common App isn’t trying to trick you. They’re just trying to understand how this whole pandemic thing has impacted your life, especially your academic record.
Think of it this way: The Common App is like a nosy neighbor who wants to know all the juicy details about your life. But, unlike your nosy neighbor, the Common App actually wants to use this information to help you. They’re not trying to judge you, they’re trying to understand you. And honestly, who wouldn’t want a bit of understanding in this crazy, chaotic world?
So, Should You Answer the COVID-19 Question or Not?
Here’s the deal: the COVID-19 question is completely optional. It’s like those free samples at Costco – you’re not obligated to take them, but man, they’re tempting. So, if you feel like your experience with COVID-19 hasn’t significantly affected your life or your academic record, then you can happily skip this question. No judgment here, pal.
But, if you feel like you’ve got a story to tell, something that explains why your grades might have been a little off or why you took a different path than you initially planned, then this question is your chance to shine.
Just remember, this isn’t a free-for-all essay on your pandemic woes. It’s a brief 250-word window into how COVID-19 has affected your life. Think of it as a concise elevator pitch for your pandemic story.
Here’s a breakdown of how to approach this optional question:
1. Ask Yourself the Right Questions:
- What would I want my admission counselor to know that is not explained anywhere else in my application? Think about the unique challenges you faced during the pandemic. Did you have to deal with unreliable internet access, unexpected family responsibilities, or a shift in your educational path? This is your chance to provide context.
- Was my family adversely affected beyond what was typical for everyone else in my school or community? If your family faced job losses, illness, or other significant challenges, this question can help you explain the impact on your academic performance or your extracurricular involvement.
- What information about my experience of the pandemic would put the rest of my application in context? Think about how your experiences during the pandemic have shaped your goals, interests, and overall perspective. This question can provide a valuable insight into the person behind the application.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Get Personal:
The pandemic has affected everyone in different ways. There’s no right or wrong answer here. Be honest about your experiences, and don’t be afraid to get a little personal. It’s okay to be vulnerable, as long as you remain respectful and focused on the academic context of your story.
3. Focus on Your Growth and Resilience:
The Common App wants to see how you’ve adapted and grown during this challenging time. Highlight the skills you’ve developed, the lessons you’ve learned, and the positive changes you’ve made. It’s about showing them that you’re not just someone who survived the pandemic, but someone who thrived despite it.
4. Keep it Short and Sweet:
Remember, you only have 250 words. Get to the point quickly, use strong verbs, and avoid unnecessary fluff. Show, don’t tell, through specific examples and anecdotes.
5. Don’t Be Afraid of a Little Humor:
Let’s face it, the pandemic was a wild ride. If you have a funny anecdote or a lighthearted observation to share, go for it! Humor can be a great way to connect with your reader and leave a lasting impression.
When Should You Not Answer the COVID-19 Question?
If you’re pondering whether or not to answer the COVID-19 question, here are a few scenarios where you can confidently hit the “skip” button:
- If COVID-19 didn’t significantly impact your life or your academic record. If your life went on pretty much as usual, then there’s no need to force a response. Let your other application materials speak for themselves.
- If you’re worried about sounding like you’re complaining. This question is about explaining the context of your experiences, not about whining about the hardships you faced. Focus on your resilience and growth, and you’ll be good to go.
- If you’re not sure what to say. It’s better to leave a question blank than to force a response that feels insincere or irrelevant.
Remember, The Common App isn’t trying to trick you. They’re trying to understand you.
So, if you feel like your experience with COVID-19 is something you want to share, then go for it. Use this question as an opportunity to showcase your resilience, your adaptability, and your unique perspective. And if you’re not sure, well, that’s okay too. There’s no pressure to answer this question if it doesn’t feel right for you.
Remember, you’ve got this!
And if you need more personalized guidance on navigating the Common App or any other college application puzzle, feel free to connect with us at JobLoving community. We’re here to help you unlock your college dreams (and maybe even crack a few cheesy jokes along the way).