申请系统中的可选项

请问各位，在申请PhD项目时，系统中有两个optional的statements:(1)Please write a statement that identifies the distinctive qualities, characteristics, and life experiences you would contribute to your graduate program and to the education of fellow students at the University of Minnesota. You may wish to include examples that address your contribution to the diversity of the student body and illustrate your motivation to succeed by setting high standards for accomplishing intellectual and other goals, overcoming obstacles to achievement, and/or helping others to gain access to the resources necessary for success.
（2）If your grades and/or test scores are not strong, and you would like to provide an explanation, please do so.
请问这样的有必要提交吗？不提交会有影响吗？