Should I give a description of certain special circumstances which affected my

[Gillian]

grades in college applications? So for the common app and most applications there's a space which asks if you'd like to give any additional info regarding special circumstances, additional qualifications, etc... In sophomore year I was pulled out of private high school and had to go to public school since tuition was too high, which needless to say I was pretty heartbroken over. It made things (like getting involved and grades and all that) more difficult. That, coupled with intense family stuff, lead to my getting grades that aren't horrible but certainly aren't what I was capable of. Anyway, I'm wondering if I should try and explain this in my application. I'm afraid that I'l come off sounding like some issue-filled kid or maybe even as if I'm trying to provide excuses. Plus I'm not exactly eager to go into family issues and what not. I was just wondering what would be the best choice.