Additional Comments
The "Additional Comments" section of the UC application lets you share important information that enhances your application. Use it to address unique circumstances affecting your academic performance, clarify any irregularities in your history, and highlight achievements not mentioned elsewhere. You can also express interest in specific campuses or programs and outline your future goals. Keep your comments concise and focused, and proofread for clarity to help the admissions committee understand your strengths.
Address Unique Circumstances
If you’ve faced personal challenges, such as financial difficulties, health issues, family responsibilities, or other hardships, this is the place to provide context. Explain how these circumstances have shaped you and influenced your academic journey.
For example, if you had to take time off to care for a family member or if your grades suffered due to a personal issue, briefly explain the situation and how you’ve grown from it.
Clarify Academic History
Use this section to explain any irregularities in your academic record. If you experienced a dip in grades during a particular period, provide a brief explanation (e.g., illness, family issues) to help the admissions committee understand the context.
If you took less rigorous courses in high school for specific reasons (e.g., personal challenges, lack of access to advanced courses), mention this and how you’ve since demonstrated your abilities.
Highlight Special Achievements
If you’ve received awards, recognitions, or accomplishments that didn’t fit into other sections, mention them here. This could include achievements in competitions, significant volunteer work, or leadership roles in clubs that are not detailed elsewhere.
Emphasize how these experiences have contributed to your personal development or academic interests.
Express Continued Interest
If there are specific aspects of a UC campus or program that excite you or align with your academic and career goals, mention them. This can demonstrate your genuine interest in the school and how you see yourself contributing to its community.
If you’ve attended campus tours, workshops, or reached out to faculty members, sharing this information can show your proactive approach and commitment.
Share Future Goals or Aspirations
Briefly outline your future academic or career goals, especially if they connect to your intended major or the programs offered at the UC campuses. This can give the admissions committee insight into your motivations and aspirations.
Discuss how you plan to leverage your education at UC to achieve these goals, highlighting any specific interests in research, internships, or extracurricular activities.
Stay Concise and Relevant
Keep your comments clear, concise, and focused. Aim for a brief explanation—typically no more than a few sentences to a paragraph. Avoid repeating information already provided in other sections.
Use this space to enhance your application, not to provide a lengthy narrative. Stick to the most important points that you believe will add value.
Proofread Your Response
As with all parts of your application, make sure to proofread your response for clarity, grammar, and spelling. A well-written comment reflects your attention to detail and commitment to the application process.
The "Additional Comments" section is an opportunity to present a fuller picture of who you are beyond your grades and test scores. Use it thoughtfully to address unique circumstances, clarify your academic history, highlight achievements, express interest in specific programs, and outline your future goals. By providing meaningful insights, you can help the admissions committee understand your journey and the strengths you will bring to the UC community.