Common App: Required explanation for interruption in your education.
This is required as part of the Common app because I switched schools. I don't want to put my real school names here so I replaced them with School #1,2,3. Please edit, make suggestions, or whatever. Thanks! :o)
During my freshman year at School #1, I started out strong academically but later developed symptoms of anxiety which took a huge toll on my attendance. School #1 was a small private school which did not have support services or counselors. Despite the challenges, and this being a highly competitive school, I managed to work hard and got grades to be proud of.
When I was diagnosed with Social Anxiety Disorder, my parents and I decided it was best to focus on treating the anxiety and not to focus solely on academics.
For sophomore year I transferred to School #2 for their special education program. Although I began in mostly mainstream honors classes with all A's, my anxiety drastically worsened which forced me to transfer into more alternative classes. This was a huge sacrifice because although I was intellectually capable of higher level classes, the special education program did not offer them in their alternative setting. This hurt my confidence, but I never lost motivation to work vigorously on my schoolwork. During junior year, with much determination, I was able to finish the year in mainstream classes.
As a senior, I was fortunate to receive placement at School #3, a therapeutic school with clinicians, emotional support, and schoolwork at my academic level. In the past few months I have overcome much of my anxiety. Finally I am thriving with great grades, significantly improved attendance, and fully equipped with coping skills. I am proud of my improved ability to be more assertive and advocate for myself. I am now enjoying things I never thought I would be able to do such as yearbook club, community service, and student council.
Despite the obstacles and small detours caused by anxiety, I am grateful that I could use high school as a learning experience, not only in academics, but in perseverance. Moving forward I am confident in saying I am ready for college.
Because I am not you, can you explain reasons why you developed anxiety? Like specific ones, and how they affected your attendance specifically?
Also, "mainstream honors classes" name any specific classes " While I took classes in AP US, AP bio, and AP Chemistry, this turned out to be a mistake as the course material was primary stressor that I was unable to handle." -specifics please.
However, the essay is good in the way that it helps me see your gradual improvement throughout your high school career.
