Explaining extenuating circumstances on NursingCAS?

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I'm a college senior in the process of applying to ABSN programs for fall 2016. I'm nervous about my applications because the grades for my pre-reqs average around a 3.2, which is not too impressive. However, there's a reason behind that-- I took all of my pre-reqs my sophomore year of college, which is coincedentally the year my mom was diagnosed with and passed away from lung cancer...

Is it appropriate to mention this somewhere on my application? I remember when I was applying to college there was a spot on the CommonApp to explain extenuating circumstances like this... Is there somewhere to do this on NursingCAS? A friend suggested that I mention it in my personal statement but I feel like that's kind of tacky and it doesn't really fit in with the rest of the content, if that makes sense.

Any input would be greatly appreciated! :)

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Specializes in Dialysis.

Unfortunately, probably will not make a difference, but you can try. I wouldn't. I would retake any prereqs that I could

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Specializes in PACU.

I would try and retake those prerequisites, personally. Nursing schools hear a lot of "extenuating circumstances" as everyone has them. This is not meant to belittle your experience, it's just realistic. You have to think about the other students you are going up against.

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Specializes in ICU.

Every, single, person has a story. Everyone. Do not mention it as it looks like you are making excuses.

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