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1 | List of 2023 - 2024 supplemental essays from college essay advisors | How to write the "why college" essay from the Essay Guy | Fill in the Blank - 5 options | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
2 | Institution | Instructions | Question 1 | Question 2 | Question 3 | Question 4 | Question 5 | Question 6 | Question 7 | Question 8 | ||||||||||||||||||
3 | University of California | 350 words; Choose four of eight; | Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time. | Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side. | What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time? | Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced. | Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement? | Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom. | What have you done to make your school or your community a better place? | Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California? | ||||||||||||||||||
4 | American University | One prompt (250 words) | American University students identify as changemakers and describe themselves as passionate. Describe a belief, hobby, idea, issue, or topic about which you’re excited. (250 words) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
5 | Amherst College | One essay of 350 words (three choices) ... or submit a graded paper, or talk about experience at A2A | What do you see as the benefits of linking learning with leadership and/or service? In your response, please share with us a time where you have seen that benefit through your own experience. | In what ways could your unique experiences enhance our understanding of our nation and our world? | Tell us about an intellectual or creative passion you have pursued; what did you learn about yourself through that pursuit? | |||||||||||||||||||||||
6 | Babson College | Two essays: One essay of 250 words and one essay of 500 words ... or a one-minute video | The Babson education prepares students for all types of careers across business, entrepreneurship, social innovation, and more. Tell us about your interest in this area of study and in Babson specifically. (250 words) | A defining element of the Babson experience is learning and thriving in an equitable and inclusive community with a wide range of perspectives and interests. Please share something about your background, lived experiences, or viewpoint(s) that speaks to how you will contribute to and learn from Babson's collaborative community. (500 words) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
7 | Bard College | Refer to the "Bard Examination" on their website | Optional: Why Bard? (250 words) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
8 | Barnard College | Three essays: One essay of 200 words and two essays of 150 words | Barnard College is an extraordinary community of women committed to fostering curiosity and the exploration of new experiences and ideas. By utilizing the resources of our campus, our Foundations curriculum, and New York City, our students expand their world and discover their own capabilities. How do you envision these intersecting components of Barnard shaping your academic and personal journey? (200 words) | Barnard College students engage in the bold questions that define their generation. Choose one question that you have about the world around you, and explain why it matters to you. (150 words) | In college, you will encounter others with diverse viewpoints and experiences. Describe an instance where you engaged with someone who held a different opinion and explain how it shaped your perspective on the issue. (150 words) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
9 | Bates College | Common App essay only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
10 | Boston College | Answer one of the five prompts (400 words) ... special question for students interested in engineering | Each year at University Convocation, the incoming class engages in reflective dialogue around a common text. What book would you recommend for your class to read and explore together – and why? | At Boston College, we draw upon the Jesuit tradition of finding worthwhile conversation partners. Some support our viewpoints while others challenge them. Who fulfills this role in your life? Please cite a specific conversation you had where this conversation partner challenged your perspective or you challenged theirs. | In her November 2019 Ted Talk, “The Danger of a Single Story,” Chimamanda Ngozi Adichi warned viewers against assigning people a “single story” through assumptions about their nationality, appearance, or background. Discuss a time when someone defined you by a single story. What challenges did this present and how did you overcome them? | Boston College’s founding in 1863 was in response to society’s call. That call came from an immigrant community in Boston seeking a Jesuit education to foster social mobility. Still today, the University empowers its students to use their education to address society’s greatest needs. Which of today’s local or global issues is of particular concern to you and how might you use your Boston College education to address it? | Human-Centered Engineering (HCE) Applicants only: One goal of a Jesuit education is to prepare students to serve the Common Good. Human-Centered Engineering at Boston College integrates technical knowledge, creativity, and a humanistic perspective to address societal challenges and opportunities. What societal problems are important to you and how will you use your HCE education to solve them? | |||||||||||||||||||||
11 | Boston University | One essay (two choices) in 300 words or less | Option 1: Reflect on a social or community issue that deeply resonates with you. Why is it important to you, and how have you been involved in addressing or raising awareness about it? | Option 2: What about being a student at BU most excites you? How do you hope to contribute to our campus community? | Additional Information (optional): Please use this space if you have additional information, materials, or writing samples you would like us to consider. | |||||||||||||||||||||||
12 | Brandeis University | One essay (250 words) | Brandeis was established 75 years ago to address antisemitism, racism, and gender discrimination in higher education, and today, the university remains dedicated to its founding values of inclusivity and justice. How has your educational experience shaped your perspective on these values? | Optional: Submit a resume | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
13 | Brown University | Three prompts (200 - 250 words); Four short answers | Brown’s Open Curriculum allows students to explore broadly while also diving deeply into their academic pursuits. Tell us about any academic interests that excite you, and how you might use the Open Curriculum to pursue them while also embracing topics with which you are unfamiliar. | Students entering Brown often find that making their home on College Hill naturally invites reflection on where they came from. Share how an aspect of your growing up has inspired or challenged you, and what unique contributions this might allow you to make to the Brown community. | Brown students care deeply about their work and the world around them. Students find contentment, satisfaction, and meaning in daily interactions and major discoveries. Whether big or small, mundane or spectacular, tell us about something that brings you joy. | What three words best describe you? (3 words) | What is your most meaningful extracurricular commitment, and what would you like us to know about it? (100 words) | If you could teach a class on any one thing, whether academic or otherwise, what would it be? (100 words) | In one sentence, Why Brown? (50 words) | |||||||||||||||||||
14 | Bryn Mawr College | One essay (250 - 500 words) | Bryn Mawr students bring their authentic selves to campus. What do you know about yourself to be true—and what in your background or experience led you to that truth? (250 - 500 words) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
15 | Bucknell University | One essay (250 words) | Please explain your interest in your first-choice major/undecided status and your second-choice major, should you opt to list one. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
16 | California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | Three essays (250 words) | Why did you choose your proposed area of interest? If you selected ‘other’, what topics are you interested in pursuing? (200 words) | Regardless of your STEM interest listed above, take this opportunity to nerd out and talk to us about whatever STEM rabbit hole you have found yourself falling into. Be as specific or broad as you would like. (150 words) | Tell us how you initially found your interest and passion for science or any STEM topic and how you have pursued or developed this interest or passion. (200 words) | Tell us about a STEM-related experience from the last few years and share how and why it inspired your curiosity. (200 words) | The creativity, inventiveness, and innovation of Caltech's students, faculty, and researchers have won Nobel Prizes and put rovers on Mars. But Techers also imagine smaller-scale innovations every day, from new ways to design solar cells to how to 3D-print dorm decor to experimenting in the kitchen. How have you been a creator, inventor, or innovator in your own life? (250 words) | Caltech’s values include respect for a diversity of thoughts and ideas. How have you cultivated this value in your own life? (200 words) | Four optional short answers | |||||||||||||||||||
17 | Carnegie Mellon University | Three essays (300 words each) | Most students choose their intended major or area of study based on a passion or inspiration that’s developed over time – what passion or inspiration led you to choose this area of study? | Many students pursue college for a specific degree, career opportunity or personal goal. Whichever it may be, learning will be critical to achieve your ultimate goal. As you think ahead to the process of learning during your college years, how will you define a successful college experience? | Consider your application as a whole. What do you personally want to emphasize about your application for the admission committee’s consideration? Highlight something that’s important to you or something you haven’t had a chance to share. Tell us, don’t show us (no websites please). | |||||||||||||||||||||||
18 | Case Western Reserve University | Common App essay only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
19 | Chapman University | Two essays (200 words), one optional essay, and short answers | Please explain your interest in the major(s) you selected. (200 words or fewer) | Out of the thousands of universities and colleges, why are you interested in attending Chapman? (200 words or fewer) | Personal Values or Personal Growth: Our committee would like to hear about a personal value, experience, or lesson that has shaped your identity, behavior, aspirations, or commitment to a sense of belonging. How did it develop and/or change over time and how would it add to the diverse and welcoming fabric of our campus community? Part of the Chapman experience is to help students evolve their perspectives. What types of personal growth do you hope to explore at Chapman and how can Chapman help in your growth? | Short answer questions here. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
20 | Claremont McKenna College | Two essays (250 words) | CMC’s mission is to prepare students for thoughtful and productive lives and responsible leadership in business, government, and the professions. With this mission in mind, please explain why you want to attend Claremont McKenna College. | Describe a time when engaging with someone about a specific topic resulted in you changing your attitude, belief, or behavior, or you changed the belief or behavior of someone else. What was the change that occurred for you, and what facilitated that change? What did you learn from that experience, and how has it informed how you engage with others? | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
21 | Clark University | One prompt (250 words) | Choose one of the two prompts: 1) The communities we belong to shape our values, our aspirations, and who we are as people. Share a story of the community that has impacted you the most and how it will influence what you will bring to the Clark community. | Choose one of the two prompts: 2) At Clark, we are a force for change. We work together to improve the lives of others and the future of our planet. Share a story of how you’ve worked with others to make a positive impact. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
22 | Colby College | Common App essay only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
23 | Colgate College | Respond to any or all of the three prompts (available on the portal after submission): | On Colgate’s campus, students engage with individuals from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds, races, ethnicities, religions, and perspectives during the course of their educational and social experiences. In 200-250 words, please share the benefits you see in engaging with a diverse body of students, faculty, and staff as part of your Colgate experience. | Colgate students immerse themselves in social and intellectual pursuits that inspire them. Tell us in 200-250 words what inspires you and why you want to pursue that at Colgate. | Please complete the following so we can learn a bit more about you. Each response should be no more than 13 words. I am fascinated by… My favorite book, movie, or television show is… My role model is… In the future, I hope to … One historical figure I would like to meet is… My favorite food is… One thing I would change is… I am most challenged by… My favorite place is… I am drawn to Colgate University because… | |||||||||||||||||||||||
24 | Colorado College | One prompt (300 words) | Colorado College values creating an equitable, environmentally conscious, and healthy community. Choose one of these areas – antiracism, sustainability, or wellness – and describe your experiences and the specific ways you plan to get involved in this area at CC. (300 words) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
25 | Columbia University | Five short answers | List a selection of texts, resources and outlets that have contributed to your intellectual development outside of academic courses, including but not limited to books, journals, websites, podcasts, essays, plays, presentations, videos, museums and other content that you enjoy. (100 words or fewer) | A hallmark of the Columbia experience is being able to learn and thrive in an equitable and inclusive community with a wide range of perspectives. Tell us about an aspect of your own perspective, viewpoint or lived experience that is important to you, and describe how it has shaped the way you would learn from and contribute to Columbia’s diverse and collaborative community. (150 words or fewer) | In college/university, students are often challenged in ways that they could not predict or anticipate. It is important to us, therefore, to understand an applicant's ability to navigate through adversity. Please describe a barrier or obstacle you have faced and discuss the personal qualities, skills or insights you have developed as a result. (150 words or fewer) | Why are you interested in attending Columbia University? We encourage you to consider the aspect(s) that you find unique and compelling about Columbia. (150 words or fewer) | What attracts you to your preferred areas of study at Columbia College? (150 words or fewer) * This prompt changes if you apply to the school of engineering | Optional: Before completing this section, kindly review our instructions on supplementary materials. Have you completed research with a faculty member or mentor in an academic discipline such as science, engineering or other academic interests (e.g., humanities, social sciences or languages)? | ||||||||||||||||||||
26 | Cornell University | One prompt (650 words) ... dependent on your major One prompt about community (350 words) | We all contribute to, and are influenced by, the communities that are meaningful to us. Share how you’ve been shaped by one of the communities you belong to. (350 words) | 650 word essay specific to the school within Cornell to which you are applying ... | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
27 | Davidson College | Two prompts (250 - 300 words) | There are just under 4,000 4-year colleges and universities in the United States. Being as specific as possible, what interests you most about Davidson College. | Davidson encourages students to explore curiosities in and out of the classroom. What is a topic, activity or idea that excites you? Tell us why. Examples may include hobbies, books, interactions, music, podcasts, movies, etc. | Optional: Submit a resume | |||||||||||||||||||||||
28 | Dartmouth College | One prompt (250 words); Two other prompts (choose one of the options -- 250 words) | As you seek admission to Dartmouth’s Class of 2029, what aspects of the college’s academic program, community, and/or campus environment attract your interest? How is Dartmouth a good fit for you?(100 words or fewer.) | In 250 words or fewer, choose one of these two: There is a Quaker saying: Let your life speak. Describe the environment in which you were raised and the impact it has had on the person you are today. "Be yourself," Oscar Wilde advised. "Everyone else is taken." Introduce yourself. | In 250 words or fewer, answer one of these six prompts: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
29 | DePaul University | Common App essay only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
30 | Drexel University | Common App essay only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
31 | Duke University | One prompt (250 words); One required, zero - two optional essays; | What is your sense of Duke as a university and a community, and why do you consider it a good match for you? If there’s something in particular about our offerings that attracts you, feel free to share that as well. (250 words) | 1. Perspective response (Optional) We believe a wide range of personal perspectives, beliefs, and lived experiences are essential to making Duke a vibrant and meaningful living and learning community. Feel free to share with us anything in this context that might help us better understand you and what you might bring to our community. | 2. Intellectual experience (Optional) Tell us about an intellectual experience in the past two years that you found absolutely fascinating. | 3. Beliefs & values (Optional) We believe there is benefit in sharing and sometimes questioning our beliefs or values; who do you agree with on the big important things, or who do you have your most interesting disagreements with? What are you agreeing or disagreeing about? | 4. Being different (Optional) We recognize that “fitting in” in all the contexts we live in can sometimes be difficult. Duke values all kinds of differences and believes they make our community better. Feel free to tell us any ways in which you’re different, and how that has affected you or what it means to you. | 5. Orientation, identity, expression (Optional) Duke’s commitment to inclusion and belonging includes sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. Feel free to share with us more about how your identity in this context has meaning for you as an individual or as a member of a community. | ||||||||||||||||||||
32 | Elon University | Four prompts: First three are 30 words, last one is 250 words | What aspect of your identity do you find most meaningful, and why? (200 words) | Name three songs from your perfect playlist. | Offer a top 5 list of anything you want and explain your list. (150 words) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
33 | Emerson College | Two prompts: Complete the first question and then one of the next two (100 - 200 words). | As you know, the academic programs at Emerson College are focused on communication and the arts. Please tell us what influenced you to select your major. If you're undecided about your major, what attracted you to Emerson's programs? Please be brief (100-200 words). | Much of the work that students do at Emerson College is a form of storytelling. If you were to write the story of your life until now, what would you title it and why? Please be brief (100-200 words). | At its best, how does community benefit the individual, the whole, or both? (100-200 words). | For the Honors Program: We often use metaphors to help us understand our world and persuade others. Write about a metaphor that you think is powerful, and explore its potential to be helpful and/or harmful in your thinking. (400-600 words) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
34 | Emory University | 1 essay of 200 words, 1 essay of 150 words | What academic areas are you interested in exploring in college? (200 words) | 4 options: Which book, character, song, monologue, or piece of work (fiction or non-fiction) seems made for you? Why? OR Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness. | OR Emory University's core mission calls for service to humanity. Share how you might personally contribute to this mission. OR Emory University has a strong commitment to building community. Tell us about a community you have been part of where your participation helped to change or shape the community for the better. | |||||||||||||||||||||||
35 | Fordham University | One essay (three options) (300 words) | Option 1: At Fordham, we expect students to care for and engage with their communities and be active citizens for positive change. Please share an experience you had that caused you to develop a new perspective, change your point of view, and/or empower you to take an action or be courageous. Your response should include examples of your personal growth (e.g., what did you learn, did your point of view change, did you develop new skills or strengths?). | Option 2: Fordham, as a Jesuit university, recognizes the dignity, uniqueness and potential of each person. A Fordham education is student-centered and rooted in close collaboration among students, faculty, and staff. Describe how you would contribute to our campus community as an actively engaged learner and leader. Specifically draw on your personal story, identity, experiences, strengths, and perspectives. | Option 3: Our motto is “New York is my campus, Fordham is my school.” New York City is a diverse and global city that provides Fordham students with a special kind of educational experience, full of both challenge and opportunity. What has prepared you to embrace the unique opportunity of living and learning in New York City? | Option 4: Is there something that you are proud of that you would like to share with the Admission Committee? | ||||||||||||||||||||||
36 | George Washington University | Optional: Answer one of two (500 words) | At the George Washington University, our students frequently interact with policymakers and world leaders. These experiences and those of our alumni can shape the future of global affairs. If you had the power to change the course of history in your community or the world, what would you do and why? | The George Washington University encourages students to think critically and to challenge the status quo. Thus, civil discourse is a key characteristic of our community. Describe a time when you engaged others in meaningful dialogue around an issue that was important to you. Did this exchange create change, new perspectives, or deeper relationships? | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
37 | Georgetown University | Four prompts: First is 250 words, second is a half-page single spaced, third is a full-page single spaced, and the last is dependent on the college, one-page, single spaced | Indicate any special talents or skills you possess. (250 words) | Briefly discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved. (1/2 page, single-spaced) | As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief essay, either personal or creative, which you feel best describes you. (1 page, single spaced) | For Georgetown College: What does it mean to you to be educated? How might Georgetown College help you achieve this aim? (1 page, single spaced) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
38 | Georgia Institute of Technology | One prompt (300 words); | Why do you want to study your chosen major specifically at Georgia Tech? | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
39 | Goucher College | Dependent on academic interest (see link) | In approximately 100 words, describe what has motivated you to apply to Goucher College? | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
40 | Grinnell College | Common App essay only (only disciplinary infractions) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
41 | Hamilton College | Common App essay only | We will send you a follow-up email and link to a personalized applicant portal where you can make sure we have received all of your required materials, as well as monitor some optional supplemental materials (like arts supplements, interviews, or short answer essays) | Hamilton invites applicants to supplement their applications (with a link to a personal URL, studio or performing arts portfolio, response to a video prompt, or answer to a short-answer question) and will provide options and instructions to candidates in their Hamilton Application portal after application submission. Interviews are encouraged, and can be scheduled in advance of submitting your application. Our short answers can be completed during application submission. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
42 | Harvard University | One long essay with no word limit, two 150 word essays | Harvard has long recognized the importance of enrolling a diverse student body. How will the life experiences that shape who you are today enable you to contribute to Harvard? (150 words) | Describe a time when you strongly disagreed with someone about an idea or issue. How did you communicate or engage with this person? What did you learn from this experience? (150 words) | Briefly describe any of your extracurricular activities, employment experience, travel, or family responsibilities that have shaped who you are. (150 words) | How do you hope to use your Harvard education in the future? (150 words) | Top 3 things your roommates might like to know about you. (150 words) | |||||||||||||||||||||
43 | Haverford College | 250 words for the first; 150 words for the second; | Tell us about a topic or issue that sparks your curiosity and gets you intellectually excited. How do you think the environment at Haverford and the framework of the Honor Code would foster your continued intellectual growth? (150 - 200 words.) | We have highlighted for you some of the values that shape the Haverford community. What are some of the values you seek in your next community? How do Haverford’s values, as demonstrated through our Honor Code, resonate with you? As you think about how to answer this question, you might draw from how you have been influenced by other communities you have been a part of, experiences you may have had within your communities, or opportunities you have had to shape or even change your communities. (150 - 200 words.) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
44 | Hobart & William Smith Colleges | Common App essay only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
45 | Howard University | 4 essays of 250 words each, 1 essay of 750 words | The year is 2030, and you have been invited to be the keynote speaker at an event of your choice. If you were to give this very important speech, what would it be about? You may reflect on a passion of yours, an important personal/global issue, or something that piques your interest; please feel free to be as creative as you’d like. (250 words maximum)* | Presume there was only one spot left in your first choice major program. Given you have thoroughly researched said program, why should we offer the spot to you over another student? Please feel free to discuss your reasons for pursuing your first choice major, your unique talents & skills, and/or how said program aligns with your long-term goals. (250 words maximum) | If you had the chance to meet any one of the over 100,000 Howard University alumni (living or dead), who would you choose and why? (250 words maximum) | Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (250 words) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
46 | Indiana University Bloomington | Common App essay only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
47 | Johns Hopkins University | One prompt (300 words) | Tell us about an aspect of your identity (e.g. race, gender, sexuality, religion, community, etc.) or a life experience that has shaped you as an individual and how that influenced what you’d like to pursue in college at Hopkins.? (This can be a future goal or experience that is either academic, extracurricular, or social). | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
48 | Kenyon College | Common App essay only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
49 | Lafayette College | One prompt (20-200 words) | Students identify Lafayette as an excellent fit for countless reasons. In your response, be deliberate and specific about your motivation for applying to Lafayette. (20-200 words.) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
50 | Lehigh University | One essay of 200 words; One essay of 300 words | How did you first learn about Lehigh University and what motivated you to apply? (200 words) | Reflect on how your personal background—be it academic, cultural, extracurricular, family, gender, racial, religious, or another aspect—will contribute to Lehigh's aim to make it new, make a difference, (and/or) make it together. (300 words) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
51 | Lewis & Clark College | One essay (two options) (300 words) | Option 1: Most colleges have mottos - a word or phrase that expresses the ideals that guide their actions. Lewis & Clark’s motto is Explorare, Discere, Sociare - to explore, to learn, to work together. Tell us about your personal motto and how it guides you (Latin not required). | Option 2: At Lewis & Clark, we strive to be an inclusive community in which students benefit from exchanging ideas with people whose perspectives may differ from their own. Reflect on a time when you engaged with someone whose background or life experiences are different from yours and share with us what you learned from that experience. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
52 | Loyola Marymount University | One essay (500 words) | Share with us why you are interested in LMU and/or why you chose your specific area of study or major. (500 words) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
53 | Loyola University Chicago | Common App essay only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
54 | Macalester College | 2 optional essays (2 conditional essays: disciplinary violation, fluctuation in grades) | Four values permeate Macalester’s mission and purpose: academic distinction, internationalism, multiculturalism, and service to society. Guided by this mission, Macalester is a learning environment that affirms different identities and experiences and prepares graduates to work toward a more just and peaceful world. In what ways do your lived experiences, perspectives, or hopes for your college education connect with Macalester’s mission/learning environment? | Macalester is one of a few highly selective liberal arts colleges located in the middle of a metropolitan area. Students benefit from the strong sense of community on campus and opportunities to engage in academic, social, and civic engagement options in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. In what ways might Macalester's urban location enhance your academic, social, and/or community experiences? | Optional: Submit a resume | |||||||||||||||||||||||
55 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 4 essays of 200-225 words each, 1 essay of 100 words | Rather than asking you to write one long essay, the MIT application consists of several short response questions and essays designed to help us get to know you. | We know you lead a busy life, full of activities, many of which are required of you. Tell us about something you do simply for the pleasure of it. | Describe the world you come from (for example, your family, school, community, city, or town). How has that world shaped your dreams and aspirations? | MIT brings people with diverse backgrounds and experiences together to better the lives of others. Our students work to improve their communities in different ways, from tackling the world’s biggest challenges to being a good friend. Describe one way you have collaborated with people who are different from you to contribute to your community. | Tell us about a significant challenge you’ve faced (that you feel comfortable sharing) or something that didn’t go according to plan. How did you manage the situation? | Pick what field of study at MIT appeals to you the most right now, and tell us more about why this field of study appeals to you. (100 words or fewer) | ||||||||||||||||||||
56 | Miami University (Ohio) | Common App essay only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
57 | Middlebury College | Common App essay only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
58 | New York University | One prompt (250 words) -- Optional (but not really) | In a world where disconnection seems to often prevail, we are looking for students who embody the qualities of bridge builders—students who can connect people, groups, and ideas to span divides, foster understanding, and promote collaboration within a dynamic, interconnected, and vibrant global academic community. We are eager to understand how your experiences have prepared you to build the bridges of the future. (250 words) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
59 | Northeastern University | Common App essay only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
60 | Northwestern University | One prompt (300 words) Two of five prompts (200 words) | We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background (your identity, your school setting, your community, your household, etc.) have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise? (fewer than 300 words) | Choose two of the five: Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why? | Choose two of the five: Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators? | Choose two of the five: Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus. | Choose two of the five: Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why? | Choose two of the five: Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus? | ||||||||||||||||||||
61 | Oberlin College | Common App essay only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
62 | Occidental College | One essay of 250 words (3 options) | Option 1: Why are you applying to Occidental? Why do you think Occidental, and our location in Los Angeles, is the right place for you to pursue your interests? | Option 2: Occidental’s central mission emphasizes the value of community amidst diversity. What do you value in a community and how do you see your perspectives and life experiences enhancing it? | Option 3: Research is an integral part of an Occidental education. Completing a senior comprehensive is a requirement of every Occidental student and there are a myriad of opportunities for research throughout your four years. Imagine you were just awarded one of our research grants for a project of your choice. What are you researching and why? | |||||||||||||||||||||||
63 | Pepperdine University | One essay of 500 words | Pepperdine is a Christian university where all are welcomed and encouraged to challenge each other in the pursuit of truth. Students, faculty, and staff members from all backgrounds participate in conversations of faith inside and outside of the classroom. Considering that Pepperdine is a Christian university, why are you interested in attending and how would you contribute to conversations of faith on campus? | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
64 | Pitzer College | 1 essay of 650 words, 1 essay of 250 words | At Pitzer College, five core values distinguish our approach to education: social responsibility, intercultural understanding, interdisciplinary learning, student engagement, and environmental sustainability. As agents of change, our students utilize these values to create solutions to our world’s challenges. Find out more about our core values. Please choose from the following prompts and answer: Option 1: Describe what you are looking for from your college experience and why Pitzer would be a good fit for you. | (OR) Option 2: Reflecting on your involvement throughout high school or within the community, how have you engaged with one of Pitzer’s core values? (OR) Option 3: Pitzer is known for our students’ intellectual and creative activism. If you could work on a cause that is meaningful to you through a project, artistic, academic, or otherwise, what would you do? | As a mission-driven institution, we value and celebrate the synergy created by our differences and similarities. We welcome you to write about distinctive aspects of your background, identity, or personal interests that you would bring to Pitzer, and how you plan to engage in our community. (250 words) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
65 | Pomona College | One prompt (of three choices) (150 words); One prompt (of three choices) (250 words); | Choose one of three prompts and answer in 150 words: At Pomona, we celebrate and identify with the number 47. Share with us one of your quirky personal, family, or community traditions and why you hold onto it. What item are you excited to bring with you to college? Describe a time where you felt empowered or on top of the world. | Choose one of three prompts and answer in 250 words: In the past few years, is there something that you have changed your mind about? Why? Reflecting on a community that you are a part of, what values or perspectives from that community would you bring to Pomona? What strength or quality do you have that most people might not see or recognize? | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
66 | Princeton University (will become available later) | 1 essay of 200 words, 2 essays of 250 words, 3 short responsesAll others must be answered by all applicants | Activities: Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences that was particularly meaningful to you. (Response required in about 200 words.)As a research institution that also prides itself on its liberal arts curriculum, Princeton allows students to explore areas across the humanities and the arts, the natural sciences, and the social sciences. What academic areas most pique your curiosity, and how do the programs offered at Princeton suit your particular interests? (Please respond in about 250 words.) | For B.S.E Degree Applicants: For A.B Degree Applicants or Those Who are Undecided: As a research institution that also prides itself on its liberal arts curriculum, Princeton allows students to explore areas across the humanities and the arts, the natural sciences, and the social sciences. What academic areas most pique your curiosity, and how do the programs offered at Princeton suit your particular interests? (Please respond in about 350 words) | For B.S.E Degree Applicants: Please describe why you are interested in studying engineering at Princeton. Include any of your experiences in, or exposure to engineering, and how you think the programs offered at the University suit your particular interests. (Please respond in about 250 words) | Please respond to each question in an essay of about 250 words. 1.) At Princeton, we value diverse perspectives and the ability to have respectful dialogue about difficult issues. Share a time when you had a conversation with a person or a group of people about a difficult topic. What insight did you gain, and how would you incorporate that knowledge into your thinking in the future? | Please respond to each question in an essay of about 250 words. 2.) Princeton has a longstanding commitment to service and civic engagement. Tell us how your story intersects (or will intersect) with these ideals. | Please respond to each question in 75 words or fewer. There are no right or wrong answers. Be yourself! What is a new skill you would like to learn in college? What brings you joy? What song represents the soundtrack of your life at this moment?What is a new skill you would like to learn in college? What brings you joy? What song represents the soundtrack of your life at this moment? | ||||||||||||||||||||
67 | Purdue University | Two essays of 250 words or fewer. | How will opportunities at Purdue support your interests, both in and out of the classroom? (Respond in 250 words or fewer.) | Briefly discuss your reasons for pursuing the major you have selected. (Respond in 250 words or fewer.) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
68 | Reed College | One prompt (500 words) | For one week at the end of January, Reed students upend the traditional classroom hierarchy and teach classes about any topic they love, academic or otherwise. This week is known as Paideia after the Greek term signifying “education” – the complete education of mind, body and spirit. What would you teach that would contribute to the Reed community? | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
69 | Rice University | 2 essays of 150 words; 1 essay of 500 words; 1 image | Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected. (150 word limit) | Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? (150 word limit) | In keeping with Rice’s long-standing tradition (known as “The Box”), please share an image of something that appeals to you. See the Help Section for more information. | |||||||||||||||||||||||
70 | Santa Clara University | 2 essays of 150-300 words | At Santa Clara University, we value our diverse and inclusive community. Our campus learning environment is enriched by the lived experiences of people from different backgrounds. What people, places, events, or circumstances have shaped the individual you are today and how you could contribute to our community? (150 - 300 words) | At Santa Clara University, we push our students to be creative, be challenged, and be the solution. Think about an ethical dilemma that you care about that our society is currently facing. This can be something happening in your local community or more globally. How can an SCU education help you prepare for and address this challenge? (150-300 words) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
71 | Sarah Lawrence College | 1 essay of 500 words (choose one of three prompts) | Optional: We know that there may be elements of who you are as a person and student that you may not feel are conveyed fully in the other sections of this application. If you wish to showcase a little more about your particular interest in Sarah Lawrence College, please respond to one of the prompts below. | Prompt 1: Sarah Lawrence students are often described as hyphenates: filmmaker-sociologist-historian, environmentalist-photographer, psychologist-novelist, economist-poet. In 250-500 words, tell us about seemingly disparate interests you have brought together, or hope to bring together at Sarah Lawrence. | Prompt 2: Students at Sarah Lawrence are asked to design their own research questions directly with faculty, and then answer them through intensive semester-long projects that frequently inspire a blend of intellectual rigor and creativity. In 250-500 words, tell us about a text, problem or topic you would love to explore over a semester or a year, and what you would hope to achieve through that work. | Prompt 3: In the syllabus of a 2023 majority decision of the Supreme Court written by Chief Justice John Roberts, the author notes: "Nothing prohibits universities from considering an applicant’s discussion of how race affected the applicant’s life, so long as that discussion is concretely tied to a quality of character or unique ability that the particular applicant can contribute to the university." Drawing upon examples from your life, a quality of your character, and/or a unique ability you possess, describe how you believe your goals for a college education might be impacted, influenced, or affected by the Court's decision. | Prompt 4: Residential colleges and universities are opportunities to live and learn with peers from very different world views. Think about a time that you encountered someone with an opinion or a position that you felt was contrary to either your belief or understanding of a topic. Describe the situation, and if the encounter did not end with a mutually agreed upon resolution, how might it have? | |||||||||||||||||||||
72 | Scripps College | One essay of 200 words; one essay of 300 words (3 choices) | Why have you chosen to apply to Scripps College? (200 words) | Option 1: If you could trade lives with someone (fictional or real) for a day, who would it be and why? (300 words) | Option 2: You’ve invented a time machine! When and where is your first destination and why? (300 words) | Option 3: You have just been invited to host your own podcast. What will you talk about and why did you select that topic? (300 words) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
73 | Seattle University | [Optionall]: Two essays (250 words); | [Optional]: Located in one of the world's top cities for technology and innovation and deeply rooted in 500 years of Jesuit tradition, a Seattle University education is innovative, rigorous, global and holistic. We encourage students to challenge preconceived notions, reflect before they react, and strive for the greater good. What is it that drew you to apply to Seattle University? Where do you hope a Seattle University education will take you? | [Optional]: At Seattle University we are inspired by the diversity of our campus community and are committed to a culture where equity, inclusion, and belonging are hallmarks of who we are. Tell us about an experience you have had involving equity, inclusion, or belonging—whether through celebration, inspiration, challenge, or adversity—and why it was meaningful to you and how it would demonstrate your unique ability to contribute to the University. (250 words) | Required Essay for Nursing Applicants The Nursing program at Seattle University is a competitive program that admits students directly to the four-year Nursing cohort. The College of Nursing’s mission is to educate and inspire leaders to transform healthcare for a just and humane world. Why are you applying to the Nursing program at Seattle University and what aspects of the profession uniquely excite you? Please limit your response to 250 words or less. | Required Essay for Business and Law Applicants The Business and Law program at Seattle University is a competitive dual degree in which students can earn both a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Juris Doctor (law) degree in a six-year span (instead of the traditional seven). Why are you applying to the Business and Law program at Seattle University and what experiences have prepared you to be successful for the rigor and accelerated pace of the program? You may highlight prior influences or internship experience as well as future career goals and aspirations. Please limit your response to 500 words. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
74 | Skidmore College | N/A | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
75 | Smith College | One essay (250 words) | What personal experiences, background or abilities would you bring to this residential environment to share with your neighbors and what would you hope your neighbors would share with you? | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
76 | Spelman College | One essay (250 words) | Why Spelman (250 words) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
77 | Stanford University | 3 essays of 100-250 words; 5 short answers of 50 words | The Stanford community is deeply curious and driven to learn in and out of the classroom. Reflect on an idea or experience that makes you genuinely excited about learning. (250 words) | Virtually all of Stanford’s undergraduates live on campus. Write a note to your future roommate that reveals something about you or that will help your roommate — and us — know you better. (250 words) | Please describe what aspects of your life experiences, interests and character would help you make a distinctive contribution as an undergraduate to Stanford University. (250 words) | All of these (50 words): What is the most significant challenge that society faces today?; How did you spend your last two summers?; What historical moment or event do you wish you could have witnessed?; Briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities, a job you hold, or responsibilities you have for your family.; List five things that are important to you; | ||||||||||||||||||||||
78 | Swarthmore College | Two essays of 250 words each | What aspects of your self-identity or personal background are most significant to you? Reflecting on the elements of your home, school, or other communities that have shaped your life, explain how you have grown in your ability to navigate differences when engaging with others, or demonstrated your ability to collaborate in communities other than your own. | Tell us about a topic that has fascinated you recently – either inside or outside of the classroom. What made you curious about this? Has this topic connected across other areas of your interests? How has this experience shaped you and what encourages you to keep exploring? | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
79 | Syracuse University | One essay of 250 words. | Please be sure to answer both parts of the prompt: Explain why you are interested in Syracuse University and describe a personal experience in which you persevered through adversity, rejected discrimination, learned a lesson, or were inspired by the courageous actions of others and how you will apply what you learned to our community in a positive way. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
80 | The New School | Two essays of 400 words each | If you could choose a social issue to impact or change, what would you choose? When addressing this prompt, imagine how your studies and experiences at The New School could help you affect change. (400 words) | What specific aspects of The New School’s academic programs or community drew you to apply? Please pay particular attention within your essay to the college, program, and/or campus to which you have applied. (400 words) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
81 | Trinity College | One essay of 300 words or fewer | The identities you claim, the challenges you face, and the successes you enjoy shape the background for your college experience to come. What is an aspect of your background that you are excited to share and/or explore as a member of the Trinity community and why? | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
82 | Tufts University | One essay (Why Tufts in 100 words) and one out of three prompts (250 words or fewer) | I am applying to Tufts because… (100 words) | Prompt 1: It’s cool to love learning. What excites your intellectual curiosity? | Prompt 2: How have the environments or experiences of your upbringing – your family, home, neighborhood, or community – shaped the person you are today? | Prompt 3: Using a specific example or two, tell us about a way that you contributed to building a collaborative and/or inclusive community. | For SMFA Students: Art has the power to disrupt our preconceptions, shape public discourse, and imagine new ways of being in the world. What are the ideas you’d like to explore in your work? | |||||||||||||||||||||
83 | Tulane University | One essay of 250 words | Describe why you are interested in joining the Tulane community. Consider your experiences, talents, and values to illustrate what you would contribute to the Tulane community if admitted. (250 words) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
84 | Union College | Common App essay only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
85 | University of Chicago | One essay of a 1- to 2-page response | Prompt 1: We’re all familiar with green-eyed envy or feeling blue, but what about being “caught purple-handed”? Or “tickled orange”? Give an old color-infused expression a new hue and tell us what it represents. | Prompt 2: “Ah, but I was so much older then / I'm younger than that now” – Bob Dylan. In what ways do we become younger as we get older? | Prompt 3: Pluto, the demoted planet. Ophiuchus, the thirteenth Zodiac. Andy Murray, the fourth to tennis's Big Three. Every grouping has something that doesn’t quite fit in. Tell us about a group and its unofficial member, why (or why not) should it be excluded? | Prompt 4: "Daddy-o", "Far Out", "Gnarly": the list of slang terms goes on and on. Sadly, most of these aren’t so "fly" anymore – “as if!” Name an outdated slang from any decade or language that you'd bring back and explain why you totally “dig it.” | Prompt 5: How many piano tuners are there in Chicago? What is the total length of chalk used by UChicago professors in a year? How many pages of books are in the Regenstein Library? These questions are among a class of estimation problems named after University of Chicago physicist Enrico Fermi. Create your own Fermi estimation problem, give it your best answer, and show us how you got there. | Prompt 6: And, as always… the classic choose your own adventure option! In the spirit of adventurous inquiry, choose one of our past prompts (or create a question of your own). Be original, creative, thought provoking. Draw on your best qualities as a writer, thinker, visionary, social critic, sage, citizen of the world, or future citizen of the University of Chicago; take a little risk, and have fun! | ||||||||||||||||||||
86 | University of Colorado, Boulder | One essay of 250 words | What do you hope to study, and why, at CU Boulder? Or if you don't know quite yet, think about your studies so far, extracurricular/after-school activities, jobs, volunteering, future goals, or anything else that has shaped your interests. (250 words) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
87 | University of Miami | One essay of 250 words | Please describe how your unique experiences, challenges overcome, or skills acquired would contribute to our distinctive University community. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
88 | University of Michigan | Two prompts (300 words for the first, 550 for the second) | Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it. (300 words) | Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (550 words) | Special Requirements for the Ross Business School | |||||||||||||||||||||||
89 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) | 2 essays of 200-250 words each, | Discuss one of your personal qualities and share a story, anecdote, or memory of how it helped you make a positive impact on a community. This could be your current community or another community you have engaged. (250 words) | Discuss an academic topic that you’re excited to explore and learn more about in college. Why does this topic interest you? Topics could be a specific course of study, research interests, or any other area related to your academic experience in college. (250 words) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
90 | University of Notre Dame | Choose two of three prompts (150 words each) ... and three of the five short answers (50 words each) | Everyone has different priorities when considering their higher education options and building their college or university list. Tell us about your “non-negotiable” factor(s) when searching for your future college home. (150 words) | Choose three of the five prompts (50 words each): 1. How does faith influence the decisions you make? 2. What is distinctive about your personal experiences and development (eg, family support, culture, disability, personal background, community)? Why are these experiences important to you and how will you enrich the Notre Dame community? | Continued 3. Notre Dame’s undergraduate experience is characterized by a collective sense of care for every person. How do you foster service to others in your community? 4. What compliment are you most proud of receiving, and why does it mean so much to you? 5. What would you fight for? | |||||||||||||||||||||||
91 | University of Oregon | One optional essay of 500 words and one mandatory if applying to the Honors College | Optional essay with two choices (500 words): Describe an experience with discrimination, whether it was fighting against discrimination or recognizing your contribution to discriminating against a person or group. What did you learn from the experience? In what ways will you bring those lessons to the University of Oregon? OR The University of Oregon values difference, and we take pride in our diverse community. Please explain how you will share your experiences, values and interests with our community. In what ways can you imagine offering your support to others? | If applying to the Honors College (500 words): Please tell us about a specific enthusiasm that showcases your curiosity and intellectual engagement with the world. Your chosen enthusiasm or passion can be from any domain—academic, artistic, scientific, cultural, or any other area that has captivated your interest. Be thoughtful and provide concrete examples to support your response. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
92 | University of Pennsylvania | Three essays of 200 words (one is college-specific) | Write a short thank-you note to someone you have not yet thanked and would like to acknowledge. (We encourage you to share this note with that person, if possible, and reflect on the experience!) (150-200 words)* | How will you explore community at Penn? Consider how Penn will help shape your perspective and identity, and how your identity and perspective will help shape Penn. (150-200 words)* | Dependent on the school to which you apply: Considering the specific undergraduate school you have selected, how will you explore your intellectual and academic interests at the University of Pennsylvania? (150-200 words) | |||||||||||||||||||||||
93 | University of Puget Sound | Common App essay only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
94 | University of Richmond | One essay of 350-650 words | Prompt 1 You have a platform to create change. What is an action or policy you might propose to address an issue of social injustice in your school or local community, or on a national or global scale? | Prompt 2 Tell us about a time you learned something unexpected. What did you learn, and what happened next? | Prompt 3 Richmond welcomes students from various backgrounds, perspectives, and lived experiences. What is at least one way you will contribute to our community that is not already mentioned in your application? | |||||||||||||||||||||||
95 | University of Rochester | One prompt that can be answered with an essay (250 words) or in other ways ... | The University of Rochester benefactor, entrepreneur, photography pioneer and philanthropist George Eastman said, “The progress of the world depends almost entirely upon education.” In what ways do you envision using the curricular flexibility and co-curricular opportunities at the University of Rochester to promote progress and change within the communities you inhabit? | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
96 | University of San Diego | Two essays (350 words each) -- first one is mandatory, second one provides three options | Mandatory First Year Essay Prompt (350 words): Throughout the first year and beyond, we engage students in this exploration through our Core Curriculum and Learning Communities, connecting them with faculty who will guide them as they become global citizens. What excites you about the academic opportunities at USD? You can learn more about our Core Curriculum and Learning Community programs by clicking on the respective links. | Essay Prompt Option #1: Our Horizon Project is a call to action, ensuring that we are dedicating the time, energy and resources necessary to build an ever more diverse, inclusive and equitable campus community. What contribution have you made to your current school and/or local community that best exemplifies your awareness of and commitment to these ideals? | Essay Prompt Option #2: As a proud Changemaker Campus, the USD experience emphasizes changemaking through care for our common home, social justice efforts, civic engagement, social innovation, creativity and a global perspective. Write about one of the challenges facing humanity today. Why does it matter to you? What experiences or insights have you had that speak to the urgency of this issue? | Essay Prompt Option #3: Share some of your ideas about the role of faith or spirituality in your life or the life of someone you know. As a contemporary Catholic university, we welcome and celebrate students from every background and faith tradition, including those who do not identify with a faith tradition. We devote great time and energy to ensuring all students feel connected to the vibrant USD community, including opportunities to grow in their relationship with God while considering who they are, what they believe and who they are called to become. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
97 | University of San Francisco | Common App essay only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
98 | University of Southern California | 250 words plus short answer questions | Required Prompt #1: Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests and why you want to explore them at USC specifically. Please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections. (Approximately 250 words) | Short Answers (25 characters each) Describe yourself in three words. What is your favorite snack? Best movie of all time Dream job If your life had a theme song, what would it be? Dream trip What TV show will you binge watch next? Which well-known person or fictional character would be your ideal roommate? Favorite Book If you could teach a class on any topic, what would it be? | Advice on answering the short answer questions: Similar to Essay 1, Choice 3, this is a chance to make a personal connection with an admissions officer. Don’t overthink these or pick movies, books, songs, or trips that you think an admissions officer will find impressive. Just be genuine. For #1, try to avoid words like “interesting” that are…well, not very interesting. For #10, don’t pick a general topic in a traditional discipline. Instead, pick something about which you are passionate. This could be a blend of pop-culture and academics or a highly esoteric topic that you happen to be obsessed with (e.g. the Beatles 1965-67 mid-career era, the history of jai-alai, or how to groom a ferret). | Optional (only if it applies): Starting with the beginning of high school/secondary school, if you have had a gap where you were not enrolled in school during a fall or spring term, please address this gap in your educational history. You do not need to address a summer break. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
99 | University of Texas at Austin | 1 essay of 500-700 words; 2 essays of 250-300 words | All freshman applicants must submit a required essay, Topic A in ApplyTexas and the UT Austin Required Essay in the Coalition application. Please keep your essay between 500–700 words (typically two to three paragraphs). Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today? (500-700 words) | Required Short Answer 1: Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major? | Required Short Answer 2: Think of all the activities — both in and outside of school — that you have been involved with during high school. Which one are you most proud of and why? | Required Short Answer 3: Please share background on events or special circumstances that you feel may have impacted your high school academic performance. If your response to this question is similar to one of the Common App Personal Essays, feel free to simply copy and paste the important parts of your essay here. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
100 | University of Vermont | 1 essay of 500 words (choose one of the five prompts) | Prompt Options: 1. Why UVM? 2. Established in Burlington, VT, Ben & Jerry’s is synonymous with both ice cream and social change. The “Save Our Swirled” flavor raises awareness of climate change, and “I Dough, I Dough” celebrates marriage equality. If you worked alongside Ben & Jerry, what charitable flavor would you develop and why? | Prompt Options (cont.): 3. UVM is a community that celebrates the unique identity of every student, faculty and staff member. Tell us how your identities have shaped the ways you interact with the world. 4. From the Green Mountains to Lake Champlain to our campus, UVM students are inspired by our location to think about their relationship to the environment. What does your relationship with your environment look like? | Prompt Options (cont.): 5. If you could pick one song to be the soundtrack of your life, what would it be? What is your connection to the song? 6. What is your favorite sentence from your application essay? |