Is the Ross MSBA optional essay only for weaknesses like low GPA, or can I use it to highlight extra achievements?

Question

T Mehta · Accepted Answer

The Ross MSBA optional essay is not limited to weaknesses like low GPA or employment gaps; it can also be used to highlight achievements that don&rsquo;t fit elsewhere. Admissions mainly designed it for context around academic or professional concerns, but strong applicants often use it to add depth. For example, mentioning a research project, certification, or entrepreneurial initiative that doesn&rsquo;t fit neatly into the main essays can strengthen the application.
The key is to keep it focused and relevant. Adding achievements that directly show analytical skills, leadership, or teamwork is more effective than general awards. If the GPA is lower, then it&rsquo;s smart to address that first, but the space can still highlight extra achievements once the concern is explained. Think of it as a chance to round out the application with something meaningful, not just as a place for damage control.

Mohit C · Answer

A lot of applicants assume the optional essay is only for explaining problems, but Ross actually leaves it open-ended &mdash; which means it can be used strategically.

If there&rsquo;s a low GPA or a gap in work experience, it&rsquo;s definitely the right spot to explain it briefly.
At the same time, it can showcase something impressive that didn&rsquo;t fit into the main essays, like publishing research, winning a data competition, or building a side project.
Admissions officers prefer concise writing here, so one strong example carries more weight than listing everything extra.
The essay should always connect back to how the achievement or context makes the applicant better prepared for Ross MSBA.
Applicants who skip the optional essay altogether aren&rsquo;t penalized, but using it well can give a subtle edge.

So it&rsquo;s flexible &mdash; it can either explain weaknesses or bring forward unique strengths that might otherwise get overlooked.

S Raghav · Answer

Yes, the optional essay for the Ross MSBA is not just for explaining weaknesses like a low GPA. It&rsquo;s also a great opportunity to highlight extra achievements that may not have been addressed elsewhere in your application. If you have accomplishments that showcase your skills, leadership, or experiences relevant to the program, this is your chance to highlight them.
Use the optional essay to present yourself as a well-rounded candidate by emphasizing your unique strengths and how they&rsquo;ll contribute to the MSBA cohort. Just be sure to keep it relevant and focused on how your achievements align with your goals and the program.

V Ritik · Answer

Yes, the Ross MSBA optional essay can definitely be used to highlight extra achievements, not just to address weaknesses. Consider using it for the following:

Unique accomplishments: If you&rsquo;ve had leadership roles or taken on special projects that demonstrate your potential, this is a great place to share them.
Academic or professional achievements: Any extra certifications, awards, or successful initiatives that weren&rsquo;t mentioned elsewhere in the application.
Skills or experiences: Highlight anything that strengthens your application and shows how you&rsquo;ll contribute to the program, especially if it&rsquo;s relevant to data analysis, business, or leadership.

Just ensure that whatever you include is directly tied to your goals and how it will contribute to your success in the MSBA program.