creative why us essays

37 Unique "Why This College" Essay Examples for Top-20 Colleges

Here's the secret to writing your "Why us?" and "Why this college?" essays:

Admissions officers ask these questions because they want to see if you'll be a good match for their school—both academically, socially, culturally, and otherwise.

Admissions officers are trying to answer these 4 questions about you with this essay:

• Are you genuinely interested in our school? Is there a good chance you'll go here if we accept you?
• Do you have what it takes to be a successful student here? What does this essay reveal about you that we didn't already know ?
• Are you a good fit for our school and the culture? Will you positively contribute to the school if you attend?
• Do you have an idea about what you want your future to look like, and will our school help you fulfill that vision ?

Biggest Mistakes Students Make in "Why This College" Essays

Most students approach these essays with generic answers that focus too heavily on the school itself.

Things like... "I want to go to Yale because it has..."

• "amazing academics"
• "world-class professors"
• "interdisciplinary education"
• "a hands-on approach to learning"

Then, most students throw in a few specific, but generic, qualities about the school, like...

• "I want to research with Professor Chiang about the impact of climate change on population decline"
• "I imagine joining the Yale Debate Team where I could continue my passion for public speaking"
• "I'd love to take ECON 142—Behavioral Economics as I'm interested in the intersection of psychology and economics"

This is generic .

It's super generic because it doesn't tell the admissions officer anything about you .

Anybody could write these things. Admissions officers already know these things about their school.

A Better Approach to "Why This College" Essays

A better approach is to focus on yourself .

Specifically, what's a unique, specific, and interesting idea that you can explore?

Exploring ideas always make for the best essays, because sharing your thoughts is what tells the admissions officer the most about who you are.

A better approach would be something like...

I've always been fascinated with abstraction. Whether within math, physics, or computer science, abstraction is what ties it all together. And at Yale, abstraction isn't an afterthought or begrudging obligation, but it's at the heart of learning. From the Engineering Physics Club, which focuses on abstracting the theoretical physics behind engineering feats and then instantiating those learnings to create new engineering solutions, to the Leitner Observatory, where I could work with astrophysicists and infers vasts amounts of knowledge from seemingly chaotic data, Yale embodies the cycle of learning I've come to love: abstraction and instantiation, understanding the mysteries of the universe and engineering solutions based on them.

So why does this approach work so much better?

• It focuses on an idea : a specific, unique reason that matters to you.
• It's not focused too heavily on the school itself, but rather what you value and how the school can help you fulfill that.
• It connects tangibly to the school's offerings, without just listing generically.

Find an interesting, unique, idea.

It could be...

• "solving systemic problems by taking full accountability"
• "promoting social justice through radical honesty"
• "reducing the latency of communication to deepen our learning experience"

Or any other ideas that matter to you.

Then, connect your idea to the school's offerings.

Any student could also mention the "Engineering Physics Club" or the "Leitner Observatory", but the difference in how you mention these things.

What do these opportunities represent? How do they tie into that idea ?

Now, let's look at some examples of "Why this college?" essays that worked for top-20 schools.

I've gathered 37 "Why us?" essays that range in topics, quality, and schools, so you can see what works and what doesn't.

Let's dive right in.

37 "Why This College" Essay Examples

1. "why northwestern" essay example.

Prompt: "Why Northwestern" Statement:

While other parts of your application give us a sense of who you are, we are also excited to hear more about how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community.

In 300 words or less, help us understand how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here. We are curious about what these specifics are, as well as how they may enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond. (300 words max)

I love Northwestern’s academic flexibility, including the freedom of the curriculum to explore a variety of fields and the emphasis on cross-department study. Also, the quarter system provides a faster pace of learning and the opportunity to take more classes than a semester school.

Specifically, I am excited by the Spanish and Portuguese department and the classes on Hispanic and Lusophone culture, literature, and phonetics. For example, the accelerated Portuguese program is a perfect way to pick up the language at a faster pace using my prior knowledge of Spanish. I intend to supplement my language acquisition through the study abroad programs offered at the Fundação Getúlio Vargas in Rio de Janeiro or an affiliate program in Santiago, Chile. Additionally, the GESI program in Costa Rica is another intriguing opportunity through its intersectionality. It will allow me to combine a practical application of my language skills with studies in environmental conservation that I find a pressing and interesting issue. As an open-minded learner keen to forge links between academic fields of study, I believe I would be an excellent fit for the program.

I am also interested in Linguistics and pursuing undergraduate research or possibly undertaking the coterminal BA/MA program. The opportunity to link my research to a modern language of choice and investigate, for example, regional variation in Latin American Spanish or how Portuguese loanwords have infiltrated native Amazonian languages sounds fascinating and exciting.

Finally, the unique sense of community at Northwestern captivated me when I visited campus. The residential college system, the school spirit at Wildcat games, and the friendliness of the students I met, one of whom described the school as “the most welcoming place ever”, were all emblematic of this atmosphere for me. I think I will thrive in such a dynamic and inquisitive place.

2. "Why Northwestern?" Essay Example

The only reason I fear going for lunch in a hotel is probably because I wouldn’t choose between fried chicken and roasted meat and so is my dilemma over my college major. The multifaceted whole brain approach at McCormick, however, grants me the perfect opportunity to pursue my interest in Computer Science whilst acquiring the appropriate skills in entrepreneurship to a one day startup as an innovator.

As a NU computer scientist, I particularly look forward to Software Development EECS 473 – NUvention: Web, through which I would not only learn intricacies of Software development, but have related studies in real time software development in relation to market requirements in CS+X that would form a base for a startup. That would also provide a bridge for me to join Prof Todd Warren at Farley Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation where I would specifically join the NUvention; Web + Media. Through this unparalleled program I would have the intimacy of working in a team with fellow wild cats towards an innovative business project. The results of which will be an introduction to the Northwestern Innovation and New Ventures Office (INVO) through which I look forward to gaining practical exposure in launching businesses to the general public.

Outside McCormick, I would be excited to pursue the Managerial analytics Certificate program at Kellogg to acquire intelligent business management skills, let off steam at SPARK exploring hacks while fostering entrepreneurial habits, and eventually joining preparations for the Benedictine Eagle Invite at the Henry Crown Sport’s Pavilion (SPAC) with the NU track club. I may not the best of singers, but I do have intense phases of music obsessions and where best to let it off than taking non major classes at Bienen and, joining one of the numerous Acapella groups as I await Armadillo day!

3. "Why Northwestern?" Essay Example

Why Northwestern? Because this introduction was so difficult to write; because I cannot possibly summarize these reasons in one introductory sentence. Simply put, my interests span across a wide range, and Northwestern has a place for them all.

As an enthusiastic programmer and advocate for positive minority representation in the media, I hope to combine both these interests and conduct research on the influence of media on society. To my delight as a prospective communications major, the School of Communication's research labs showcase project topics ranging from the depiction of STEM in media to improving digital communication. I look forward to taking advantage of the high-quality research, internship and even career opportunities offered to explore my ideas.

My multiple passions keep me creative and energetic, and I plan to continue pursuing them at Northwestern. With years of editing and writing experience for school publications under my belt, for instance, I hope to join the staff of Helicon and North by Northwestern . Last but not least is the constant school spirit and sense of inclusion present within campus. During my campus tour, each tour guide seemed genuinely excited to introduce prospective students to the school. As my particular tour guide described the quarter system and tradition of guarding and painting the rock with passion in her eyes, I knew that only at Northwestern could I find students as enthusiastic about the school itself as they are about their majors. I also spotted many students of color while visiting; as an Asian woman, Northwestern's focus on diversifying reassures me that not only will I not be judged for my background, but that I will get to meet students of all ethnicities and cultures.

College is a time of self-discovery, and I firmly believe I can see my dreams become reality at Northwestern.

4. "Why Northwestern?" Essay Example

I felt the cold sheets beneath me and the beeping sounds of a monitor next to my bed, my chest moving up and down and my body sinking into the mattress. I opened my eyes and was greeted with a plastic surgeon holding the cyst that was once in the corner of my eye. Medicine, I decided, was my destiny.

Flash forward to 8th grade, the year I decided to read 100 books. Emerson, John Green, Ernest Cline--you name the author, I read them. I became instantly inspired to learn to write like the wonderful authors I had read. So, writing, I decided (maybe), was my destiny.

Wait--or was it medicine? Well, perhaps it can be both.

The thing I find most striking about Northwestern is its emphasis on the word “AND.” Northwestern students can love computer science AND music theory, poetry AND Latin History, journalism AND business--I can love science AND English. At Northwestern, my interests would not be hindered by strict and unwavering guidelines. Rather, they could be effortlessly streamlined and integrated into one another. I could go from ​PSYCH 361--Brain Damage and the Mind to ENG 206 - Reading and Writing Poetry to Carol Clayberger’s Lab to continue my extensive research on T-lymphocytes, similar to that I conducted at UPMC. I would be learning each level of the human psyche, communicating my thoughts through writing, and putting them into action through my research.

At Northwestern, I plan to take advantage of the various resources that would enable me to pursue my passions, find new ones, and combine them into one, pulling from both sides of my brain. I know that I am right for Northwestern and Northwestern is right for me because we have a mutual understanding of what education should look like--emphasis on “AND,” not “OR.”

5. "Why Tufts?" Essay Example

Prompt: Which aspects of the Tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application? In short, "Why Tufts?" (150 words max)

The cross-curricular focus and freedom of study at Tufts would allow me to pursue an interdisciplinary major and draw together my love for Spanish, Portuguese, Linguistics, and the natural sciences. This unique ability to design my own major by combining elements from a variety of academic fields definitely excites me. To support this, I intend to participate in the study abroad program in Chile or a civic semester in Urubamba, Peru that will allow me to practice my language skills while also benefitting the local community and gaining an invaluable cultural understanding through intimate homestay experience. Other than the academics, the vibrant community at Tufts also attracts me, with the warm and compassionate students acting as flattering adverts for the school. One student I spoke with described the average Jumbo as “goofy and loving” which I feel accurately matches my own character and outlook.

6. "Why Tulane?" Essay Example

Prompt: Please describe why you are interested in attending Tulane University (optional). (50-800 words)

I need a meaningful education to be a meaningful educator. Tulane is unparalleled in its dedication to development of the students, on a personal and intellectual level. From when I touch the Victory Bell after Convocation all the way to when I say farewell at the Wave Goodbye Party at Commencement, I’ll have changed and grown, both in my mind and in my heart.

Why This Essay Works:

For "Why Us" essays, it's critical that you imagine how you'll be involved on campus. One strategy is to research specific initiatives, events, or programs already taking place. The more unique these are to the school, the better. Then, talk about how your personal interests would make you a perfect fit for participating in these opportunities. Don't reference too many (over 5 is pushing it) in a committal way (i.e. saying "I will do XYZ") because it can seem unrealistic. Instead, focus on a handful that you're most interested in, and then you can reference others as "possible" ways you'd get involved.

For "Why Us?" essays, one of the hardest parts is finding what is super unique about the school that other colleges don't offer. Most colleges have similar research, curriculum, sports, clubs, etc. While those can be good references (if unique to the school), it can sometimes be easier to find unique aspects by focusing on the intangibles: the culture, approach to education, values, character of student body, ideals they uphold, etc. Having a combination of both unique offerings (programs, opportunities, curriculum, etc.) and ways the school is unique in its approach will make for the most compelling reasons for "Why Us?".

What They Might Improve:

Avoid telling admissions officers what they already know about their school. You don't need to repeat the school's history or information about its faculty, unless there is something exceptionally unique about it that you're pointing out. Admissions officers will already know these facts, so instead jump into the "meat" of your point. Focus on the unique aspects that make you interested in the school, rather than the ones that could be said about almost any school.

7. "Why Tulane?" Essay Example

What starts with the letter P and is distinct to Louisiana and not the other forty-nine states? This question stumped my fifth-grade class when our resource teacher was giving a lesson on Louisiana culture. Among hands that threw out guesses, such as ports and Lake Pontchartrain, my minuscule fingers, like unwrapping a Christmas present, unveiled the correct response: parishes. It was this moment that sparked my awakening of Louisiana’s profoundly unique traditions and history, ranging the gamut of culture, such as food, music, and holidays.

From Gumbo to Zydeco to Mardi Gras, these distinctions made Louisiana my home when I emigrated at the age of three from Mexico, which, like Louisiana, shared the status of owning an inimitable culture; from an early age, I took comfort in this common characteristic. Basking in rich traditions, Tulane joins Louisiana and my Hispanic background to form a trio of diversity. With staple practices, such as swinging beads into a tree or Crawfest, Tulane fosters a living and learning experience that is grounded in unparalleled traditions, offering enlightening and invigorating undergraduate opportunities to explore social milestones.

In its liberation from normal college practices, Tulane encourages students to kindle a life that is eccentric but indicative of the individual beliefs of a student. Because of Tulane’s vigorous ties to special traditions, I would be humbled to have Tulane advise me in crafting my art piece adorned with decorations, my life adorned with personal values.

In addition to the customs on Tulane’s campus, another reason I want to attend Tulane is because of the university’s integration with the most vivid city in the United States: New Orleans. Inside this bright, bustling city, Tulane students participate in myriad festivals and celebrations, cultivating a new social perspective. Aside from the social revelations, New Orleans is Tulane’s classroom, inviting students to apply classroom discussions and academic theories to the neurons of interactions between individuals, businesses, agencies, and other entities.

Tulane returns the favor to New Orleans through community service, serving as a catalyst for students to aid a city often decimated by natural or social injustices. Moreover, Tulane emphasizes its commitment to community service throughout its undergraduate population. As a Louisiana resident, I am invested in Louisiana’s unique physique, whether it is being ecstatic for a super bowl win secured by the Saints or being sympathetic to victims of flooding. Heeding the advice of a stockbroker, it is wise to invest in a system that will provide a generous, satisfying return. Therefore, I would like to make an investment of my leadership potential, my academic excellence, my service dedication, and my social experiences into Tulane University. This investment would reap mutualistic rewards because I would be the beneficiary of a robust education and Tulane would be the beneficiary of a loyal student, who is pious to the university’s commitments to diversity, learning, and service.

8. "Why University of Michigan?" Essay Example

Prompt: 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? (100-550 words)

Growing up, I always pictured myself as a great teacher as an adult. With the second best secondary education program in the country and an emphasis on the liberal arts and undergraduate education, I am confident that U-M will shape me into the great educator I’ve dreamed of becoming since I was a kid.

Hallmarks of a liberal arts education include teamwork, problem-solving, clear writing, and effective communication. These are also skills that any exceptional teacher needs. U-M offers an unparalleled curriculum that prepares students to successfully run classrooms and obtain Provisional Teacher Certifications upon graduation, exposing students to diverse classes and people in Ann Arbor, and providing them with an invaluable liberal arts education along the way.

Being an effective teacher means connecting with and stimulating all students at its core. The liberal arts foundation I will receive in the College of Literature, Sciences, and the Arts (LSA), married with the experiential education and training the School of Education (SoE) will provide, will mold me into that great teacher—a mentor and role model for any student, regardless of creed—I’ve always aspired to become.

The Teacher Education Preferred Admission (TEPA) for incoming freshmen piqued my interest because the program is the crossroad between the liberal arts and teacher education; two components I was looking for in a college. TEPA will allow me to build a strong liberal arts base in LSA my first two years on campus before entering SoE, while also gaining beneficial experiences in the education field early on.

The education-oriented programs WE READ and Students Empowering Education specifically appealed to me because they will bridge my liberal arts education with my anticipated career as a high school English teacher. Similarly, my Spanish classes will have a practical application in the Ann Arbor Language Partnership, a program that immediately interested me as a potential Spanish minor.

During my first two years as a pre-admit, I'll be supported by my TEPA peers and staff, specifically from my SoE personal adviser. TEPA will take the large campus and make it feel smaller, allowing me to form organic connections with like-minded people and groups that can cultivate my interest in education before entering SoE junior year.

I need a meaningful education to be a meaningful educator. Truthfully, I could go to almost any college to become a teacher, but only schools that synthesize in- and out-of-classroom learning like SoE produce great ones. U-M ranking sixth in the country for undergraduate teaching bolstered my interest in the university and confirmed what I already knew: I will receive an education in LSA and SoE that will change who I am as a person and not just a student, and prepare me to provide the same for others as a teacher.

The great educator I’ve always envisioned myself becoming is one that can inspire without bounds. From my time as a student, I’ve come to realize that a truly influential teacher can work with students who have little in common with themselves and still be impactful. LSA's purposeful and broad curriculum, paired with SoE's hands-on courses and fieldwork, and the additional opportunities available through TEPA, will shape me into that life-changing teacher, for any student who walks through my classroom door.

9. "Why University of Michigan?" Essay Example

Growing up in a community that bleeds maize and blue, the community represented by the University of Michigan has always been one that I could see myself representing as both a student and alumni. From football games at the big house to classes at Ross, each and every opportunity available at U of M represents a piece of my life that I hope to continue to incorporate into my life for the rest of my life.

The opportunity to take courses that allow for enriched experiences in developing a real business is one that I intend to be involved in as soon as possible. I will use this type of class as a way to test my skills and learn where I need to become stronger as a leader and student. Watching others equally driven as me, their tactics that are successful and not successful will imprint on how I attack problems in the future and shape my overall leadership style.

By being involved in the Multidisciplinary Action Projects down the road as a graduate student, I hope to learn firsthand what it takes to run and be involved with real businesses. Firsthand exposure is the best way to learn how to solve problems- especially surrounded by peers who are equally as driven and dedicated as I am.

Filled with students striving for nothing but the best they are capable of is a community that I am certain I will enrich and fit into. By sharing ideas and collaborating together instead of against each other, each and every one of us will contribute to the business world as leaders and innovators.

The University of Michigan is a place I can see myself learning and growing as a leader for the next four years as I intend to use all of the tools at my disposal to become a top business person. The opportunities within the school I will be involved in and the peers that I will work beside only enrich the values of what being a Wolverine mean to me.

10. "Why University of Michigan?" Essay Example

The University of Michigan’s College of Engineering has a proactive approach to career path discovery and job search. While I do hope to aspire to a corporate attorney, an engineering degree from the University of Michigan would provide me the advantage of readiness.

U.S News and World Report published an article about challenges law school applicants with STEM degrees face. Number one was the lack of research skills. Michigan Undergraduate Engineering has research opportunities for all undergraduate students. I hope to even take advantage of The College of Engineering (CoE) International Internship Program. The chance to see the world and contribute to the world-class studies conducted by Michigan Engineering students is a unique quality. The article also reported that STEM applicants often lack job experience. Michigan Engineering hosts internship fairs, which even freshman can participate in. By utilizing the opportunity to work in a professional setting, I will be more adapt to presenting myself in a mature and respectable manor in a corporate setting.

Many people are puzzled by my aspirations to become a corporate lawyer with an engineering degree. While I enjoy learning about many areas of study, math and science have always peaked my interest. Like my attraction to law, I am drawn to the definitiveness of engineering specifically. While there is a right and wrong in methods and procedures, there is a chance to be creative; for the end goal is functionality. Law requires critical thinking, problem solving, and the questioning of presented facts and figures. These skills are also encompassed in Michigan Engineering. With a technical understanding of industry and engineering, I will be able to more accurately represent a corporation. Like the professors at Michigan Engineering, I hope to be an expert in my field. At Michigan Engineering, I will be educated by the best of the best. Professors that have been exposed to their fields in every aspect; allowing them to provide the best guidance to students. Instead of just presenting facts and figures in a courtroom, I will be able to understand and explain them.

11. "Why University of Michigan?" Essay Example

In my junior year microeconomics class, my teacher extensively explored the ways in which people from different socioeconomic classes were affected by our economic system. I was frustrated by the ways our country forces those living in poverty to spend the little money they have on taxable goods. I began to empathize with them. How can people pull themselves out of poverty if their government seems to be working against them? More than anything, I was frustrated that I felt powerless to help them in any way.

Those lessons inspired and motivated me. I had always looked at economics as nothing more than an analysis of business models and resource allocation. I began to see it as a way to fix fundamental problems in our society, from examining the effects of healthcare expansion on crime and poverty rates to studying how shifts in our political climate affect how our country’s financial process will change. I now see economics as a way to help those in need in my country and throughout the world.

I volunteered after school for Representative Dingell and had the opportunity to attend numerous events hosted by the Ford School. Again and again, I was impressed by the extent of the Ford School’s student involvement in critical issues. Through my work with the Congresswoman, I was able to gain a greater understanding of how different groups of people were affected by shifts in political and economic priorities. My goal is to become a civil rights attorney or study economics as a way to promote sustainable growth in developing nations.

I want to begin my studies at the University of Michigan in LSA to gain a foundation in economics and political science-related courses. After my first year, I hope to gain admission to the Ford School. The connections that LSA and Ford have to Poverty Solutions solidified by interest in the University of Michigan. If I attended these schools as an undergraduate student, I would be able to assist with research on the causes and ramifications of poverty. Professor Michael Barr’s research on policy initiatives and our financial system is fascinating from the perspective of a prospective economics major. At the University of Michigan, I would be able to join teams of renowned researchers working toward the betterment of our society and our world.

The range of schools working in connection with Poverty Solutions is evidence of the University’s devotion to civic engagement. I would be able to participate in groundbreaking research regarding issues I am interested in; I would have the ability to study poverty and ways to stunt or alleviate its effects in other countries. As someone hoping to pursue a career in public service, it is truly incredible to have the opportunity to join a research community specifically geared toward solving problems I am passionate about solving.

I want to join the University of Michigan’s legacy of innovators. I want to be part of the LSA community, studying economics and political science. I want to attend the Ford School and understand how policy in America and abroad has an effect on global poverty. I want to be involved with the Poverty Solutions Initiative, conducting groundbreaking research on the ways we can reform our financial system to better serve the lower and middle classes.

12. "Why Oberlin?" Essay Example

Prompt: How did your interest in Oberlin develop and what aspects of our college community most excite you? (250 words max)

“Give Oberlin a look” my father suggested. A school I knew little about. I casually added Oberlin to the long list of schools of which Tufts was perched atop. My father had gone to Tufts and I had convinced myself that I should follow.

Adding Oberlin to my list begat the serendipitous series of events that ultimately saw a fly-in invitation to Oberlin in my email inbox. My father encouraged me to go; “It doesn’t hurt to listen”.

The most influential component of Oberlin were the people. My host, Estrella, like every Oberlin student I met, was generous with her time and her experiences. It wasn’t 24 hours before I could imagine myself laughing with friends at the 10 pm dinner, dozing off on a swing bench in Tappan square, spending late nights at the library in a womb chair, or petting kittens in some little art store. Sharing a day with these people who were clearly in the right place brought some force to my mind that Oberlin was the right place for me. My short trip revealed that Oberlin offered me both the academic rigor I seek and the visceral experience of living in a community of people with broadly varying backgrounds─an experience that I had in this small Ohio town and nowhere else.

I don’t know whose essay I’d be writing right now if this opportunity had never presented itself, but I am very grateful it did.

13. "Why Dartmouth?" Essay Example

Prompt: While arguing a Dartmouth-related case before the U.S. Supreme Court in 1818, Daniel Webster, Class of 1801, delivered this memorable line: “It is, sir,…a small college, and yet there are those who love it!” As you seek admission to the Class of 2026, what aspects of the College’s program, community, or campus environment attract your interest? (100 words max)

I see myself nestled under the wooden arches of Sanborn Library in my Dartmouth EMT jacket too enthralled in my work to notice the snow flurries outside. I'll take a quick study break with some cross-country skiing at the outing club and then take my professor, Dr. Ackerman, out to lunch at the Hanover Inn to talk about her groundbreaking research in vaccine development. After a conversation on protein engineering and immunology, I'll stop by Foco for an infamous chocolate chip cookie with my friends from our unforgettable freshman hiking trip. I know I'm home when I am at Dartmouth.

14. "Why Claremont McKenna?" Essay Example

Prompt: Why do you want to attend CMC? (150-250 words)

I’ve been able to get to know CMC well, since my sister has relished pursuing her undergraduate studies at this amazing school. I’ve visited Claremont many times, and I’m certain this is exactly the school best positioned to both challenge and support me during this critical stage of my education.

The person I aspire to be in the wake of my undergraduate studies is a knowledgeable, accomplished and compassionate leader ready to take over our family business. The privilege of diving into CMC’s unique undergraduate major in Economics will certainly enable me to attain the knowledge I will need. The rigorous classes of the inimitable Finance Sequence will definitely challenge me, but I will savor this. My sister often talks about the exuberance with which professors at the Roberts Day School conduct their classes and I hope to experience this. More specifically, I want to study Financial Economics under Dr. Lisa K. Meulbroek and get an insight into the world of corporate finance by evaluating everything from mergers to investments.

A CMC education also complements my intellectual curiosity, since it would enable me to pursue a second major in Religious Studies. This is immensely important to me since I come from an area where religious tensions are spiraling out of control. In addition, to enable me to develop the hard and soft skills of leadership, CMC offers experiential projects and countless opportunities for me to take on leadership roles in clubs and societies I’m passionate about, like the Blockchain club.

15. "Why Indiana University?" Essay Example

Prompt: Describe your academic and career plans and any special interest (for example, undergraduate research, academic interests, leadership opportunities, etc.) that you are eager to pursue as an undergraduate at Indiana University. Also, if you encountered any unusual circumstances, challenges, or obstacles in pursuit of your education, share those experiences and how you overcame them. (200-400 words)

Walking into school on the first day of my senior year, the excitement about college was evident as I passed through the halls. While many students discussed the local options, the one name I heard that really drew me in was Indiana. Unaware of the tremendous opportunities that would be within my reach as a student there, I began to learn more information through both individual research and from discussion with alumni. This was how I knew Bloomington was the place for me.

Always interested in business, the characteristics of the Kelley School run parallel to those that I value in numerous ways. First, because I have taken Chinese for most of my time as a student, international experience is vital to me. While classroom learning is no doubt helpful, continuing my education of the language within the culture will teach me more meaning to the words that I am speaking. Tying in with business, it also will give me leadership experience dealing with planning and collaboration around the globe.

The collaborative community is another aspect of Indiana that I truly appreciate. Dating back to the first group activities I worked on at school, I have always appreciated the helpfulness in working with my peers rather than against them. Working with others to solve problems is not only how I have accomplished so many of my goals, but also how I have made some of my closest friends. Additionally, I will utilize this emphasis of collaboration with my professors at the Kelley School as a way to enrich what I have learned in their classrooms.

While in collaboration with my classmates, friends, and professors, I will begin connecting myself with the future alumna- and eventually become one down the road. Since the Kelley School has the largest alumni population of any other business school, the community I am entering into is sure to be influential in the future. This opportunity to enter this prestigious group will open up doors and give me access to some of the top people in business today.

I cannot wait to be a part of the community within the Kelley School: for not just the next four years of my life, but the rest of my life.

16. "Why New York University (NYU)?" Essay Example

Prompt: Why NYU?

We would like to know more about your interest in NYU. What motivated you to apply to NYU? Why have you applied or expressed interest in a particular campus, school, college, program, and or area of study? If you have applied to more than one, please also tell us why you are interested in these additional areas of study or campuses. We want to understand - Why NYU? (400 words max)

Living in a suburb my whole life, I've always felt as if I lived in a two-dimensional plane. I can go left, right, forward, and backward.

In a suburb, however, it is nearly impossible to get any meaningful altitude. Upon visiting New York City during the summer before my senior year, however, I found myself gazing up at the skyscrapers soaring high above me. I've always loved the views mountains and buildings; both from above and below. I also have spent time studying Mandarin, and Shanghai would offer a unique opportunity to further my linguistic studies while engaging in cultural immersion.

Beyond settings, NYU has the capacity and the resources available for me to engage in research in quantum computation. Playing video games got me into math and science beyond just playing with my calculator as a baby. There were practical applications of the numbers, and I wanted to understand how it all worked in order to get the best equipment and maximize ammo efficiency. I would watch "Mythbusters" and try to come up with my own hypothesis and see if it matched their conclusion.

In 8th grade, I figured out that I loved science along with math, but I didn't exactly know what science I loved. At the time I was in "physical science" and I did enjoy the class a lot, but I always thought of physics as "speed distance time" triangles which were no fun at all. I was convinced to take AP Physics in my junior year with my friends, and I loved it. It was almost every week we would learn something that completely altered my perception of the universe.

Once I learned about quantum physics and how it basically destroys our understanding of everything, I knew I wanted to pursue it further, and be at the forefront of quantum research.

At NYU, not only can I take courses to learn about the subject, but I can also participate in research through the "Center for Quantum Phenomena". Taking advanced courses and conducting research in a new setting, such as New York or Shanghai, can offer me a new perspective and a breath of fresh air. Conversely, I can help over NYU a new perspective on critical thinking and problem-solving. I chose to apply to NYU because NYU is fit for me, and I am fit for NYU.

17. "Why University of Michigan?" Essay Example

Riding the elevator to the seventh floor of Haven Hall, my heart was practically leaping out of my chest. I was meeting with Dr. Jenna Bednar of the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts Department of Political Science, and as I recalled her credentials- B.A. in Political Science from Michigan, M.A. and PhD in Political Science from Stanford- I felt increasingly out of place. As a junior in high school with limited political experience, I am grateful that she agreed to take time out of her day to meet with me and answer my numerous questions about LSA, Michigan, and political theory.

Upon entering her office, my eyes were drawn to bookshelves full of political literature, from the classics like De Tocqueville and Locke (which I read in a summer college program in 2017), to her own recently published work, The Robust Federation. Encouraged by her broad smile and having just completed an official campus tour, I launched into my questions. Dr. Bednar described the connections she and her students have made at Michigan, through LSA and in general.

This revealed to me that the faculty would take a personal interest in my academic career. We discussed the average class size in LSA and the Department of Political Science, her academic background, and how to survive Michigan winters. Dr. Bednar then brought my attention to the benefits that LSA Political Science gives its students.

For example, as head of the Michigan in Washington program, Dr. Bednar's passion for both political science and education was evident as she introduced me to one of Michigan's most influential academic programs. Although I hail from two miles outside the D.C. border, I aspire to participate in the Michigan in Washington program, to build on my internship of the past year with my delegate to the Maryland General Assembly.

Under his guidance, I conducted nationwide policy research, attended civic association meetings and development forums, and traveled to our state capitol to watch the legislative process unfold. Consequently, an internship at the federal level is my logical next step toward building the foundations of a political career.

Dr. Bednar, upon hearing about my internship with my delegate, suggested that I think about the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program. I believe that this research program offers a unique means of building my understanding of political science. I am eager to apply to the UROP program in hopes of furthering my research skills within the complex political landscape of today. Furthermore, the variety of courses that I can explore as a political science major is remarkable: from "Sports, Politics, and Society", to "Nations and Nationalism," the scope of topics will keep me engaged.

When I sat down with Dr. Bednar, I expected a five-minute chat; I received forty-five minutes of helpful advice, political theorizing, and well wishes. Leaving her office, I felt energized and ready to dive into LSA Political Science right there. Her demeanor helped to build my confidence to boldly seek connections in my search for knowledge. I saw the Michigan difference firsthand, from various undergraduate opportunities for political science, to a universal love for the school from students and faculty alike.

18. "Why University of Michigan?" Essay Example

My favorite class in high school was also my hardest. It was World Culture/World Literature, an hour and a half each day of seeing history, art, and literature not as separate entities but as intricately connected, one incomplete without the other. I learned to see humanism in Greek sculpture, religious propaganda in the chiaroscuro of Baroque paintings, disillusionment in modern art. Although seemingly unrelated to my STEM-leaning interests, the analytical skills I learned there would prove invaluable in neuroscience research. Connecting electroencephalography results to mechanisms for chronic pain relief wasn’t all too different from drawing links between historical movements and paintings; both required an intimate knowledge of background information and a willingness to take risks, to see new relationships and forge unprecedented connections.

LSA embodies precisely this mentality, fostering interdisciplinary learning and problem-solving. With classes like “Health, Biology, and Society: What is Cancer?”, bridging humanistic and biological approaches to disease, and graduation requirements ranging from Natural Sciences to Race and Ethnicity, LSA prepares students for the real world, where problems necessitate not just single-minded expertise but also a diverse understanding of other factors involved. My internship experience only confirmed the practicality of this perspective; we used mindfulness meditation alongside spinal cord stimulation technologies to treat chronic pain.

This mindset is not confined to learning inside the classroom. The LSA Opportunity Hub is robust, connecting students to internships at Nike, Forbes, and the US Department of Education, among other places. To intern as a research assistant at Mayo Clinic, to use mathematical models to predict brain tumor growth like current Michigan junior Tatum Doyle would be an unequalled opportunity. Her work in incorporating mathematical concepts in medical research personifies the LSA culture, where problems are best solved holistically. LSA’s interdisciplinary approach does not detract from fostering specialization and excellence in specific fields, but adds; its Biochemistry program promotes innovation and independence in its students and is ranked top in the nation.

I remember boiling down cabbage with my dad to make acid/base indicators. In elementary school, my teacher wrote that I had been spending too much time reading animal books and too little time playing with other kids. I loved (and still love) all things living, often marvelling at the complexity of the animal kingdom, the human body, the organs, and the cells that were the foundation for everything else. The first time I read about the process of translation, of rendering mRNA into proteins, my eyes filled with tears; this is what I wanted to do, to apply the chemistry that had defined my childhood to my love of biology.

LSA shares that passion, dedicating a plethora of resources, both intellectual and material, to its Biochemistry department. With equipment like atomic absorption spectrophotometers, classes in Endocrinology, and distinguished professors, the University of Michigan has everything any biochemistry undergraduate student would need, and much more. To research under a PI like Dr. Kopelman, winner of the J. William Fulbright Research Award, would be a dream fulfilled. His work in employing 5-dimensional chemical imaging to visualize and treat tumors does what LSA does best; it uses an interdisciplinary approach to make academic discoveries both relevant and essential in the real world. It is a culture I would be honored to take part in, should I be accepted.

19. "Why University of Michigan?" Essay Example

Sweat drips down my face onto homework in front of me.

I just got home from a soccer game; I’m not stressed. This is until I realize I still have a plethora of edits to make on my lab report as well as emails to write for an upcoming NHS event. AND I have three tests the next day.

Although stressful, I enjoy every minute of juggling a variety of academics and extracurriculars. I appreciate all the opportunities my high school offers to me and I take advantage of as many as I can handle. Thanks to my involved years of high school, I have received a great education as well as many experiences I would never trade away.

Entering my senior year and researching universities I may want to attend, there is one question which continuously presents itself. What do I want to major in when I get to college? It is a scary question and I have never known the answer. Despite participating in many extracurriculars such as National Honor Society, Science Olympiad, Math Honor Society, and Future Business Leaders of America, I still have no idea what I want to do with my life.

As a student at LSA, I would be able to use the abundance of resources to explore possibilities for life after college. Since I am one of the many college applicants who has not decided upon a major, a large, liberal arts college like LSA is the perfect place for me to discover more about myself, pursue interests, and find my purpose. I have considered medicine, business, economics, and law. The two courses I have enjoyed the most are biomedical sciences and US History. I am truly all over the map!

With so much variety at LSA, I would be able to change majors or take a diverse group of classes so that I could find what I want to study. LSA is unique from its University of Michigan counterparts because it offers a broader range of departments, majors, and courses. The flexibility at LSA would help me discover what I want my life to be like while supporting me through my journey.

Additionally, LSA provides students with multiple opportunities not found anywhere else at University of Michigan. One program that caught my eye was Michigan Learning Communities. This program appeals to me because having the resources of this large university, yet finding a niche in the community to challenge myself and others, can help me grow as a student and a person. Similarly, the Opportunity Hub at LSA jumped out at me as I researched the University and toured the school. I would take full advantage of the great connections the Opportunity Hub provides, as it could help me find an internship or job offer when the perfect time comes. MLCs, the Opportunity Hub, and the many other programs which LSA offers are the main reasons why LSA would be the best college fit for me.

I was initially drawn to the University of Michigan by the beautiful campus, great athletics programs, unmatched prestige, and massive alumni network. However, as I dove deeper, I discovered LSA, a school that can help me realize my purpose and passions while providing a focused learning environment to lead me to a bright future.

20. "Why University of Michigan?" Essay Example

Throughout my college search, I had yet to come across the perfect undergraduate school for my interests. The safe pick was always the standard “College of Arts and Sciences” or its equivalent, with the most varied options for me to craft my experience. Something was different about Michigan. I didn’t need to craft my own academic experience at another university when the perfect one was already designed here: The School of Kinesiology’s Movement Science program.

In my house, we never eat scrambled eggs. We eat denatured albumin and yolk proteins served with a sprinkling of sodium chloride; cooking was chemistry, not just a chore. From a young age, my parents have cultivated a sense of curiosity in me. So when I injured my left wrist in the summer before freshman year, it was so much more than just an injury. I researched more into my growth plate dislocation and radial fracture. I got to see the details of the procedure, the recovery process, and the gradual reversion of my X-rays to a normal wrist image. This fascinating journey got me through an otherwise disappointing summer: no basketball and no french horn.

While the seeds were planted during my injury, they didn’t start blooming until I spent a week shadowing Dr. Kesavan Ramanujan in the Royal United Hospital, Bath, England. I realized that the field of orthopedics was a field where I could visually identify a problem, come up with a solution, implement the solution through operation, and help someone progress to full recovery. The gratification on the doctor’s faces when their recovered patients came back to visit them was infectious. While this trip was my first time staying abroad without my family, the biggest takeaway for me was that I had found a career I was truly interested in.

My volunteer work at the Robert Wood Johnson Hospital Physiotherapy Clinic has only strengthened this notion. While my work as a volunteer may be the more routine tasks: making schedules, doing paperwork, cleaning the beds and the gym, setting up hot packs, cold packs, and stimulation pads, I have learned so much about the subtle details of patient interaction through what I absorb from the physical therapists. Even if a PT is having a bad day, they have taught me how important it is to have a smile on your face for the next patient coming through the doors. They have also taught me how much of an intersection there is between teaching and medicine/therapy.

These experiences draw me to the School of Kinesiology, and specifically the Movement Science program. The opportunity to actively engage with skeletomuscular system studies as opposed to solely classroom learning appeals to me, as do the extensive research opportunities. The specialized IONM Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Program-- the only accredited IONM program in the world-- would give me the chance to engage in an exciting, interdisciplinary curriculum that cannot be found anywhere else.

From scrambled eggs to broken bones; from British adventures to lessons learned in the RWJ clinic. Discovering my passion for orthopedics and movement science has already been an exhilarating ride; yet, these have all been just the beginning steps of my journey. I cannot think of a better place to continue than the University of Michigan.

21. "Why University of Southern California (USC)?" Essay Example

Prompt: 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. (250 words max)

All throughout my life, I always loved doing math no matter what the concept. My love for math led to me taking advanced math classes for my grade. I even had to take a bus to a high school when I was in middle school to take an advanced math class. I always knew that I would want to pursue a career dealing with mathematics, but I was not really sure until my junior year. I had not decided what I wanted to be in the future, so my uncle suggested being a CPA, and I looked into it. When I did my research, it interested me as they made a decent amount of money and they worked with numbers.

At USC, I would like to major in accounting and gain the opportunity to possibly receive an internship at one of the big accounting firms in Los Angeles through the networking of USC. If I were able to get an internship, I would be able to gain experience for when I graduate and search for a job. I would also consider going for a Masters of Business Administration as I know that USC has one of the best business programs in the country.

22. "Why University of Southern California (USC)?" Essay Example

I had never considered traveling across the country to pursue an education. In fact, living in Pittsburgh all of my life and growing up with people who are so adamant about staying put, forced me to believe that I too had to box myself into this small, yet evolving city. However, now I can confidently tell my friends and family that I want to travel to California for college (and ignore their odd looks).

What strikes me most about USC is its ability to maintain uniformity despite its diverse student body--in interests, ethnicity, and opinion. There are not many schools where I could be best friends with filmmakers, artists, photographers, chemists, potential CEOs, and writers. Although all of these people are spread across different schools, they still seem to maintain a cultural unity. Being surrounded by such a distinct trojan pride combined with the ambitious atmosphere would be both inspiring and propulsive.

At USC, I would not have to confine to merely one of my interests. I have always had aspirations of becoming a doctor and pursuing neuroscience, but have never felt comfortable ignoring the humanities. As a Trojan, I could pursue research at the Dana and David Dornsife Cognitive Neuroscience Imaging Center or even take part in PIBBS, while also honing my writing skills through the intricate Writing Program.

Much like the students, my interests could somehow be molded into a diverse uniformity, and I could prove my fellow Pittsburghers that perhaps they need to move around more.

23. "Why Cornell?" Essay Example

Prompt: Cornell Engineering celebrates innovative problem solving that helps people, communities…the world. Consider your ideas and aspirations and describe how a Cornell Engineering education would allow you to leverage technological problem-solving to improve the world we live in. (250-650 words)

For "Why Us?" college essays, one of the most important parts is to show ways you imagine being involved on campus. This student does a great job of showing that they've done their research about Cornell, by connecting their passion for studying heart disease to specific initiatives already taking place on campus. Try researching what events, research, or programs are being conducted. By referencing those specifics, you can create convincing reasons of why this school is fit for you.

When discussing your intended area of study, one effective strategy is to identify a problem that you see. This problem can be in the field itself, your community, or the world. Then, you can connect this problem to yourself by showing how you'd want to help solve it. Don't try to tackle it entirely yourself, but show how you'd "take bites" out of this larger problem. It is also important that you identify potential solutions to the problem. You definitely don't (and shouldn't) have all the answers, but what do you see as potential steps for combatting the issue?

Using technical language, such as referencing "semi-elliptical curves" and "modular form" in this essay, will help show your in-depth knowledge and passion. Don't be afraid to use technical jargon like this, and don't worry if admissions officers may not know all the terms. As long as they have context and knowing the terminology isn't critical to understanding your point, including "nerdy" language will make your essay more engaging and demonstrate your intelligence.

If you have personal connections to the school you're applying to (such as legacy, family members who work there, students or faculty you're close with), it can be a good idea to reference those connections. Showing personal connections to the school makes admissions think, "They're already practically one of us!" Just make sure that these connections aren't contrived: only write about them if you have a clear purpose within your essay for introducing them. In this essay, the student references their brother who attended Cornell, but does so in a way that naturally ties into the rest of their reasons for "why Cornell."

24. "Why University of Pennsylvania?" Essay Example

Prompt: Considering the specific undergraduate school you have selected, how will you explore your academic and intellectual interests at the University of Pennsylvania? For students applying to the coordinated dual-degree and specialized programs, please answer these questions in regard to your single-degree school choice; your interest in the coordinated dual-degree or specialized program may be addressed through the program-specific essay. (300-450 words)

As a child the world fascinated me. From questioning the makeup of the dirt I played in, to doubting the existence of gravity as I flew a kite, I was always thinking. Time passed, and my consciousness opened to more, like atoms, the Big Bang Theory, the psychology behind dreams, and the list goes on. Everything fascinated me; curiosity quickly became a part of my character. Some say ignorance is bliss, but I have to disagree. Ignorance is what fuels my curiosity; ignorance is what drives me to discover, learn, and initiate change. Living in a small rural town with my grandmother and disabled father, I have been limited by geography and socioeconomics. A perfect blend of humanities and factualities, the College of Arts and Sciences is an exploratory lab for all I do not know. At Penn, courses from Neurobiology of Learning and Memory to The Sociology of Gender allow me to rid my ignorance one class at a time. The unique and specialized curriculum provides a place to explore whatever I wonder and answer whatever I question. While my grandmother did not have the money for me to attend science camps, to visit museums, or to travel more than a few hours from my home, living in the country always provided me with endless exploration. My interest in trees in particular led me to specialize in the forestry portion of our Envirothon team for four years of high school. The passion I have for biology is second to my interest in helping others. Rural areas of Pennsylvania are in desperate need for physicians, especially in the field of women’s health. My goal is to return to my community and fill that need. As a low income, first-generation student, I have had limited opportunities, but I have seized any that I could and where there were none, I created some. As a seventh grader, I pioneered the colorguard of our newly formed high school marching band. Last year, as captain of 14 twirlers, I took my first plane ride to Disney World where my band performed. This experience taught more than I could ever learn in a classroom. Similarly, there are endless opportunities at Penn, both intra- and extra-curricular, and I plan to take advantage of all that I can to feed my fire.

25. "Why University of Pennsylvania?" Essay Example

This essay does a great job of conveying a thoughtful and candid applicant. Their phrasing, although verbose in some places, comes across genuine because the author walks you through how they learned about the school, what they're looking for in a school, and why the school would offer those specific things. Phrases like "I didn't know if I could honestly see myself studying that" are conversational and natural-sounding, which help create a sincere tone.

By referencing specific programs, like "Penn in Washington" as well as various minors and concentrations, it is clear this student has done their research about the school. One of the most important aspects for a "Why Us" essay is to find specific and unique opportunities and name them in your essay. These could be things like specific professors and their work, campus and its location, interesting classes, unique internship/study-abroad/job programs, special events, and many more. The key is referencing things that are entirely unique to the school and not many other schools too. Avoid broad terms like "renowned faculty" or "interdisciplinary studies" because virtually all colleges offer things like this, and these are some of the most over-used and artificial reasons used in "Why Us" essays.

This essay has many moments of repetition that are unnecessary. In general, avoid repeating your ideas and when editing, ask yourself of each sentence: does this add something distinctly new and important to my essay? There are two common mistakes that often create repetition: prefacing your ideas and summarizing your ideas. Unlike academic writing, you don't need to "prepare" the reader for what you're going to say, and you don't need to conclude it with a summary. By doing so, you only create unnecessary repetition and take up words which could otherwise be used to include new specific details or ideas.

This essay spends nearly half of its words explaining the "interdisciplinary" opportunities at UPenn. However, this reason is quite superficial and not at all unique to Penn, as almost all colleges offer some sort of interdisciplinary study (i.e. combining your interests or studying multiple fields). Talking about "interdisciplinary study" is one of the most common reasons students use in their "Why Us" essay, and it often comes across as generic and unoriginal. Instead, look for offerings that no other (or very few other) schools provide. Narrow down your reasons "why" to make them more specific to the school, even if they are smaller scale. You can mention things like "interdisciplinary studies" or "diverse student body" briefly as a reason why, but don't make them one of your primary reasons why, unless you have something particularly unique about it.

26. "Why Tufts University?" Essay Example

Prompt: Why Tufts? (100 words max)

What struck me most about Tufts was not only the warm, open, and energetic atmosphere, but also the students’ willingness to be walking contradictions. With the ExCollege ​encouraging interdisciplinary education through ​classes like ​EXP-0058-PS Health, Communication & Society, it is easy to be contradictory.

During my visit, I met Biological Poets, Singing Physicists, and Mathematical Artists. I know that Tufts is right for me because it preaches everything I believe about synergistic learning. Being a contradiction my entire life--the scientific, mathematically inclined, yet literature obsessed barista--it was comforting to find a community of people identical to and completely different from me.

27. "Why Tufts University?" Essay Example

Prompt: Which aspects of Tufts’ curriculum or undergraduate experience prompt your application? (100 words max)

Touring a college is not always enough to get a sense of what the college is like. But, I had the unique opportunity to meet with Professor Dennis Rasmussen and discuss Political Science at Tufts. He talked to me about the unique opportunities which Tufts students have, from the fantastic study abroad opportunities to a senior thesis which lets you dip your feet into research before moving onto higher education. The combination of Professor Rasmussen’s thoughtfulness and the school’s academic prowess proved to me that Tufts is the place to be.

28. "Why Northwestern?" Essay Example

Think Purple: Aspiring journalist dreams of being a Wildcat F​iled under ​A​dmissions​, ​Top Stories

After brochure browsing, website wandering, and campus canvassing what felt like hundreds of different schools, it took Daisy Conant exactly 32 seconds on the Northwestern University campus to realize she had found the one.

“Northwestern is undefinable in the best way, an addicting hub of intellectuality, creativity, and school spirit - something especially appealing to a football lover,” laughed Conant. “But what excites me most about NU is the opportunity to study at the Medill School of Journalism.”

A writer with hopes of becoming a foreign correspondent, Conant has always been drawn to people and their stories, especially those completely unfamiliar to herself and her experiences. Once learning she could start on day one at Medill acquiring investigative journalism experience writing an enterprise story and end on day 600 with a journalism residency and international experience already under her belt, she was hooked.

“Conducting groundbreaking research on the socioeconomic disparities in the CPS system for the Medill Justice Project, spending a semester abroad reporting on cultural crisis in Greece, interning at the Post - at Medill, my options are boundless,” remarked Conant. “I could explore the world of print news writing in-focuses for the Daily Northwestern, dabble in magazine editing laying out spreads for North by Northwestern, even try my hand at broadcast reporting for WNUR.”

A journalist at heart, Conant is fascinated with the intersections of other disciplines. As an NU student she would be free to engage her passions for international studies and business through outside concentrations in addition to investigative journalism, uncovering the adventures (and discovering the tenacious Wildcats) that lie between Evanston and the shores of Lake Michigan. “My story is just beginning,” said Conant. “And Northwestern is the perfect lede.”

29. "Why Notre Dame?" Essay Example

Prompt: What excites you about the University of Notre Dame that makes it stand out from other institutions? (200 words max)

Lou Holtz once said, “You don't go to Notre Dame to learn something; you go to Notre Dame to be somebody.” While I can hardly tell the difference between a linebacker, quarterback and fullback, I know that the advice from the former football coach rings true. Notre Dame will not only provide me with a wonderful education, but will equip me with the tools to pursue a career in government.

Notre Dame’s emphasis on a practical political science education is what first drew me in. The emphasis on equipping students with the ability to do research through the Research Apprenticeship Course and the ability to complete a thesis allow for an undergraduate to get hands-on experience in helping contribute to the body of knowledge in political science.

Further, the ability to obtain internships, especially with the U.S. Department of State and the City of Chicago Law Division emphasize the experiential learning I hoped for. Real-world experience will empower me to solve real-world problems and enter the workforce.

While I may never understand football, with a Notre Dame education I know I will learn to understand political science deeply and be equipped for a successful future.

30. "Why Notre Dame?" Essay Example

When I attended a Notre Dame information session, the admission representative, Zach, told us wonderful stories about campus life. One thing that especially stuck out to me was how diverse Notre Dame is. It was intriguing to think that I could sit down at a lunch table and there would be someone there from Hong Kong, Germany, and Korea. This nurtures my love of cultures different from my own. Also, I’ve spent my whole life in Kansas City, which is roughly 8 hours away from Indiana.

The idea of leaving everything that I’ve grown so familiar with frightens me. A family friend who attends Notre Dame says that you form a close bond with the people in your dorm, but it extends beyond that because it’s like everyone at Notre Dame is family. Even the Alumni stay involved long after they’ve graduated. People are proud to have graduated from Notre Dame, leading me to believe that when you attend Notre Dame, you become a family for life. Notre Dame has a history and legacy of greatness, and I would love to be a part of a school that changes lives like that.

31. "Why Ithaca College?" Essay Example

Prompt: Please tell us why you selected this specific academic program and what other academic programs interest you. (10-200 words)

Recording devices have been banned from the courtroom of the Supreme Court Building since 1946. Therefore, when the Court makes a landmark decision, interns must hand-deliver paper copies of the ruling to news organizations.

The interns often pair running shoes with their business attire, for the quarter-mile sprint from the Court building to the area where networks ​await.

When I first saw photographs of “The Running of the Interns”, I wanted nothing more than to ​be​ one of those people. I wanted to feel my running shoes beating against the sidewalks, to feel sweat staining my suit.

Why did this tradition attract me to journalism? Because it reminded me that the news is a race, a constantly-changing collection of stories shaping social and political development.

The opportunity to contribute to that collection is why, beyond Ithaca’s journalism program, I’m also interested in the College’s minors in Politics and Writing.

I think all of this desire to be part of a story defines what it means to be a journalist, a writer: When I become a journalism major at Ithaca College, and, later, perhaps a running intern, I get to be a contender in the race to change the world.

32. "Why Rice University?" Essay Example

Prompt: How did you first learn about Rice University, and what motivated you to apply? (250 words max)

I live in Ponchatoula, but I am from New Orleans. Most of my family is from there, including my parents, and as a result, I have grown up in a food-loving household. My parents and I decided to take a foodie vacation to Houston since we heard about how amazing the food is there. My mom suggested I research the schools in Houston so I could visit one while we were there. I will admit that I chose Rice simply because it was the highest-ranking school according to a quick Google search. I didn't do any further research.

However, as soon as I stepped through the Sallyport, my nonchalance faded, and I was entranced.

The beauty of the school was nearly enough for me to apply, but I was intrigued when my tour guide spoke about the importance of liberal arts at Rice because I have never been in an environment that held such respect for them. I also loved the housing system of Rice. It reminded me of the houses in Hogwarts from Harry Potter! I felt incredibly welcomed at Rice; I was pleasantly surprised when I asked the tour guide if I could visit the Shepherd School of Music by myself since it wasn't included in the tour, and she told me "of course." As I stepped through the unlocked doors and strolled through the maroon floors of the Shepherd School of Music, I didn't hesitate to inform my parents of my new dream school.

33. "Why University of Wisconsin-Madison?" Essay Example

Prompt: Tell us why you decided to apply to the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In addition, please include why you are interested in studying the major(s) you have selected. If you selected undecided please describe your areas of possible academic interest. (80-650 words)

This essay uses a lot of a great, specific references about UW Madison that show that the author has done their research and know the school well. Your reasons for applying in these "Why Us?" essays should be as specific as possible. This essay uses references to specific professors and their work, lab equipment ("biolayer interferometry"), courses, and features about campus. All of this works to create a compelling reason why this student would be a good fit, while also demonstrating strong interest in the school. When writing "Why Us" essays, doing your research to find unique and specific aspects is most important.

Even for "Why Us?" essays that don't explicitly ask you to write about your major, referencing your intended major is often a strong reason "why." By connecting what you want to study with what the school offers, you can show how your studies would be made even better. Admissions officers are trying to imagine how you'd fit into campus, so try showing them how you'd be engaged in the specific department. Researching the department is also a good idea, as often times it is easier to find unique qualities about a department (like "Biochemistry department") than it is to find about the school as a whole.

This essay starts off with a somewhat unserious introduction, referencing Wisconsin's reputation for cheese-making. Although this is casual and humorous, it serves as an engaging introduction into their main ideas about what the school offers. Using humor can show your personality, while also making it more fun for admissions officers to read. They'll be more likely to find your essay likable if you can include small moments of lightheartedness. This student also shows their personality through interjecting their thoughts (like this is doing here) using parentheses, which works to bring the reader into your thought process.

In this intro, the author sets up three points that they use as criteria for what they want in a school. However, this ultimately ends up creating unnecessary repetition because they later they discuss each of those points in detail. In general, avoid prefacing your ideas or thoughts. That is, you don't have to "prepare" or "introduce" what you're about to say to the reader. Instead, it is usually more compelling to just start with those juicy details rather than setting them up.

34. "Why Cornell University?" Essay Example

Prompt: Describe two or three of your current intellectual interests and why they are exciting to you. Why will Cornell's College of Arts and Sciences be the right environment in which to pursue your interests? (650 words max)

35. "Why Brown University?" Essay Example

Prompt: Why Brown, and why the Brown Curriculum? (200 words max)

I believe any college should equip you with tools as you embark upon your journey. Brown provides the necessary. That is what the capstone experience does (not to mention the importance of internships given to Brown Students). You can never know everything about anything. But quench the questions is exactly what the Capstone Experience fosters.

The Open Curriculum was obviously the first thing that caught my eye. In school, you are sometimes forced to take the subjects you don’t like. College shouldn’t be the same. It is supposed to be a fresh start and that is exactly why you should be allowed to take the courses that appeal to you. Here is where the S/NC option was interesting. Only if you know perspectives from all subjects, can you determine a solution; S/NC promotes this. Group Independent Study Projects is also unique. Getting into the course is something hard. But creating your own course is amusing.

I would love to be a part of The Society of Women Engineers because I had to fight with my own family to study Computer Science in the United States. If it means providing the help for people I wish I'd got, never better.

36. "Why UPenn?" Essay Example

Prompt: How will you explore your intellectual and academic interests at the University of Pennsylvania? Please answer this question given the specific undergraduate school to which you are applying. (650 words max)

37. "Why Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)?" Essay Example

Prompt: Why Carnegie Mellon? (650 words max)

With a strong background in computer science and communications, I hope to incorporate both into a future career of building data systems, conducting research, and consulting for organizations that serve underrepresented citizens.

Specific details and anecdotes will almost always be more compelling than less specific ones. In this essay, the student does a great job of including specific, "nerdy" details, such as "an association test between melanoma associated variants and survival outcome." These details demonstrate your in-depth knowledge of an area and make your essay more engaging.

This essay does a fantastic job of addressing real-world problems and emphasizing the "bigger picture" impact of their studies. Rather than just explaining what they want to study, this student explains how their education will help them have an impact on the world. Make an argument for what problems you see in the world and how you could potentially help solve them.

For "Why Us?" college essays, one of the most important parts is to reference unique aspects to the school. Almost all colleges have strong academics, great faculty, etc. So instead of referencing those points, reference what makes the school unique and different. In this essay, the student talks about "CMU's Technology Consulting in the Global Community" program, which is both highly specific to CMU and relevant to their own interests.

In general, you should avoid simply listing your achievements. This student has many remarkable activities and experiences, but it comes across less interesting because the first half of the essay is simply describing these accomplishments.

For "Why Us?" essays, it is also a good idea to reference the values the school represents. Each school has a different "culture" and type of student body, and admissions wants to know how you will fit in.

What You Can Learn From These "Why This College" Essay Examples

Ryan Chiang , Founder of EssaysThatWorked

Want to read more amazing essays that worked for top schools?

Hey! 👋 I'm Ryan Chiang, the founder of EssaysThatWorked.

Get our 5-minute free newsletter packed with essay tips and college admissions resources, backed by real-life examples from admitted students at top-20 schools.

Meet the Author

Ryan Chiang

I'm Ryan Chiang and I created EssaysThatWorked - a website dedicated to helping students write college essays they're proud of. We publish the best college admissions essays from successful applicants every year to inspire and teach future students.

You might also like:

20 Successful College Essay Examples + Why They Worked (2023)

25 Elite Common App Essay Examples (And Why They Worked)

20 Brilliant Personal Statement Examples + Why They Work

UCLA Acceptance Rate By Major & Program 2023

What do outstanding essays have in common? Here are our 23 most effective strategies based on lessons from admitted students.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

By signing up you agree to Terms and Privacy Policy

Now available for November 2023 ...

The College Essay Workshop

Join my on-demand step-by-step course for crafting outstanding college admissions essays, plus 1-on-1 help.

Here's everything needed to write essays worthy of Top-20 colleges.

Google Rating

Join our students who have earned acceptances to schools like...

See exactly how students wrote admitted essays for top schools.

Our 231 essay examples show you how ordinary students wrote outstanding essays that helped their applications - all in their own words.

These aren’t just essay examples - but real acceptance stories, from real students who share their most intimate details with you - down to their real essays and exact profiel stats.

How do I find a unique topic? How do I write a great essay? And how do I stand out?

Our 231 essay examples break down these exact questions. Every type of essay prompt, student, and school.

You’ll realize these students are just like you - and that, deep down, you can do it too.

Princeton Admitted Essay

People love to ask why. Why do you wear a turban? Why do you have long hair? Why are you playing a guitar with only 3 strings and watching TV at 3 A.M.—where did you get that cat? Why won’t you go back to your country, you terrorist? My answer is... uncomfortable. Many truths of the world are uncomfortable...

MIT Admitted Essay

Her baking is not confined to an amalgamation of sugar, butter, and flour. It's an outstretched hand, an open invitation, a makeshift bridge thrown across the divides of age and culture. Thanks to Buni, the reason I bake has evolved. What started as stress relief is now a lifeline to my heritage, a language that allows me to communicate with my family in ways my tongue cannot. By rolling dough for saratele and crushing walnuts for cornulete, my baking speaks more fluently to my Romanian heritage than my broken Romanian ever could....

UPenn Admitted Essay

A cow gave birth and I watched. Staring from the window of our stopped car, I experienced two beginnings that day: the small bovine life and my future. Both emerged when I was only 10 years old and cruising along the twisting roads of rural Maryland...

Over 200 more admitted essays like these...

Learn the secrets behind outstanding application essays.

College essays are confusing. And it's not your fault. You're not taught how to write them in school.

How should I structure my essay? Can I use humor? What makes a truly great essay?

There's so much conflicting advice out there.

And with people selling "magic formulas" and "structures" to follow... it's easy to be led astray.

You’ll get access to courses, live events, a dedicated essay coach, and countless resources to help you write your best essays.

You finally have a place where you can ask these questions, get advice, and see exactly how admitted students before you did it.

You’re no longer figuring out everything on your own. You're no longer stuck wondering.

Everything you get

231 essays analyzed

Explore our database of 200+ admitted essays from top-20 colleges. Filter by prompt, school, topic, word count, and more. Get expert insights into why they worked and what you can learn from them.

Exclusive access to essay editing

You'll get access to our essay editing services, which is only offered for members. You can get your essays reviewed personally by me (Ryan). I'll give you detailed feedback on how to improve your essays and make them stand out.

Dedicated essay coach & support

You'll get access to our private community, where you can ask questions and get help from me directly. I'll be there to answer your questions and provide unlimited personalized advice.

44 in-depth video lessons

Learn the secrets behind outstanding essays. We break down the entire process, from brainstorming to writing and editing. You'll learn how to write amazing college essays for any prompt, with step-by-step guides and actionable tips.

26 downloadable guides

Get our best tips and tricks in easy-to-read guides. Learn what makes great essays, how to brainstorm your best topics, and how to write specific parts like a powerful hook and memorable ending.

Tons of bonuses

Get the Ultimate College Application Planner, my 154-Point Essay Checklist, and more. You'll also get a free copy of my eBooks, including 23 College Essay Tips to Stand Out and more.

Don't take our word for it

Some names have been changed to protect the privacy of our students and parents.

" Ryan, I want to express our great appreciation to you for your help on George's application essays. You have provided invaluable resources! P.S. I will certainly recommend you to our friends. "

" Ryan—David got into The University of Michigan!!! Only 4 kids got in out of 200 that applied at his school!!! Thank you so so much for everything "

" Thank you for the incredible help Ryan - both Hannah and I have said repeatedly that we could not have done it without you! "

" Thank you for your help with my essays back in November, including my Yale supplements. Just wanted to let you know I ended up getting into and committing to Yale! "

" I feel so much more reassured to press the submit button now. I wish I knew about your site sooner! "

" ... Invaluable to me during the college admissions process! It gave me a different perspective to look at my essays. "

" Initially I was skeptical about my essay's idea and whether it was properly reflected in my writing. This gave me a clear direction! "

Don't miss out on writing your best college essays.

© 2018- 2023 Essays That Worked . All rights reserved.

Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms and Conditions , Privacy Policy , and Cookie Policy .

We have no affiliation with any university or colleges on this site. All product names, logos, and brands are the property of their respective owners.

How to write the "why us" essay

‍ Applicants tend to do poorly on “Why Us” essays — filling them with platitudes; showing only a cursory level of research (ex: praising US News rankings); and mentioning things that would apply at any school (ex: “great professors”). 

But there’s a simple “Why Us” essay strategy that works. Have your students:

Thanks for reading The Apply! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

write about their college-related interests,

do a little research on how the school matches those interests, and

aim their essay at demonstrating they’ll (1) be a good fit at the school + (2) likely attend if admitted.

In this newsletter , we’ll show that:

Colleges ask “Why Us” to see if students will be a “good fit” and are likely to attend.

Yes, students can reuse their “Why Us” essays for different colleges (mostly).

Students should take time to brainstorm their college-related interests. 

3 tips for showing how those interests match what the school has to offer.

A word on pulling it all together.

‍Colleges ask “Why Us” to see if students will be a “good fit” and are likely to attend. 

Colleges that require “Why Us” essays often care about yield — how many of the students they admit actually enroll. It’s a big factor in college rankings. A lot of surprising things help colleges determine a student will likely help their yield — for a deep dive, see our article on Demonstrated Interest . But ultimately, writing a great “Why Us” essay is the best way a student can show a college they’re serious about them.

In addition, colleges are looking to see if the student will fit well on campus. So have your students write with those two aims in mind.

Note : If the college asks why a student will major in, say, engineering at their school, it’s still a “Why Us” essay. (Ex: Cornell .) If the college is instead asking about students’ interest in a particular major, that’s a “Why Major” essay (Ex: MIT ). For a strategy for Why Majors , see our article.

Yes, students can reuse their “Why Us” essays for different colleges (mostly)

While students can't write the exact same thing for each school, they can often get away with similar essays. First, once they’ve done the work to articulate their college-related interests (see below), it’ll work for all schools. Second, once a student knows how to research a school for how it matches their interests, it’s not hard to do again.  

Students should take time to brainstorm their college-related interests 

The hardest part of “Why Us” essays sounds like the easiest part: figuring out the student’s college-related interests and writing about them well. That’s why they can’t skip a solid brainstorming session.

As you know if you follow Prompt’s method , we’re big on having students brainstorm first and write second, so they know exactly what is most compelling to write about.

In this instance, students need to figure out what interests they want to develop in college. They should brainstorm a few of these, in each case answering questions such as:

What most interests you about the subject?

What first sparked your interest?

How does this interest relate to your ambitions (if any)?

Are there classes related to this interest that you’d like to take at college? 

What big questions do you have about this interest? 

What are you most curious about within it? 

The student should end the brainstorm with 1-2 interests that feel right and fully fleshed out.

Then, they should do it all over again for their extracurriculars. While some “Why Us” prompts specifically ask about academics, many are broader. In those cases, colleges love having an idea of what students will get up to on campus outside of class. A little extra brainstorming can deliver.

Here are some questions students can use to generate great content:

What kinds of volunteering, clubs, or organizations do you hope to continue participating in during college? Why do you want to continue?

What kinds of volunteering, clubs, or organizations do you hope to try for the first time during college? What do you hope to gain from these experiences?

Are you looking for work or research opportunities in college? What kinds? 

How do you want your college to support you?

If you’re a maker and/or interested in creative pursuits, how do you hope to develop your skills in college? 

A word of caution on study abroad : students should avoid mentioning it unless they have a specific idea of where and what they want to study. It can come off as “I can't wait to go to this school so I can leave and go somewhere else!”

Researching how students’ interests match what the school has to offer is actually pretty easy

Now comes the part that seems difficult, but is actually relatively straightforward: research. Have the students begin with a Google of the department they’re most interested in.

They should look at the class offerings, research opportunities, fellowships, and anything else — and write down the things that jump out at them as interesting.

Note: the general curriculum is usually less exciting and tends to be similar across schools. Students should look at the more advanced, esoteric classes intended for junior/senior students.

Department sites often have articles about students and faculty who’ve done newsworthy things . Students should look into those that interest them and make a note.

Next, students should do a general search for the school’s organizations and clubs that relate to their interest(s). Again, all they have to do is note down the things that excite them. Finally, examples from a student’s campus visit make excellent fodder for this essay, so do tell students to use those experiences if they have them.

By the end of this process, students should have a number of particularized notes on what the college has to offer that genuinely excites them.

Use a super direct approach to turn brainstormed content into an essay

“Why Us” is an essay that needs a super direct approach : it’s straight geometry — we fit together. “ I’m interested in X, and you have Class and Activity that match X. ”

Here are some quick pointers for students: 

Follow the formula. Present your most important interests + how the school matches those interests. 

Start with academic interests. Extracurriculars should go further down. Social reasons should go last. 

If the school is your top choice (or a top choice), say so. As we know, schools ask “Why Us” to see if students will accept if admitted . (However, don’t say it if it’s not true.)

How to help your students write great college application essays

Prompt’s Essay Planning Tools help students identify what to write about and how to write about it. The tools are available for free for every student either by requesting a Prompt college application essay resource page for your school ( click here to request a page ) or through our integration with MaiaLearning.

Click here for a 12-minute video overview of Prompt’s Essay Planning tools.

In our next issue , Tips for the UC PIQs.

If you’re not a subscriber , please add your email address for more issues.

And if you enjoyed this newsletter, please forward it to other counselors .

Ready for more?

How to Write the "Why us?" College Essay

Many colleges, such as Tufts University, Bowdoin College, and Cornell University, assign the “Why us” or “Why this college” prompt as a supplemental essay. The purpose of this essay is for you to demonstrate, through concrete details and examples, why you are a great match for the school. It is also an excellent opportunity to demonstrate interest.

Colleges look for 3 main things in your “Why us” essay:

1. You understand the school and the opportunities it offers.

2. You have a plan of how you will make the most of these opportunities.

3. You can identify spaces where you can contribute to the school and its community.

Colleges rely a lot on this type of essay to determine how likely a student is to attend their school, which is a critical factor in their decision-making process as it affects their yield rate and other related statistics (acceptance rate, ranking, etc.). It is therefore important that you pay special attention to the way you craft your “Why us” essay. Read on for some Do’s and Don’t’s to help you get started.

Let’s start with some common mistakes and things to avoid.

#1 . Treat this as a “Why them” essay.

A lot of students make the mistake of only talking about the school and its cool opportunities. Great, that addresses number 1 on the list of what colleges look for in the “Why us” essay. However, it only addresses number 1, and not much else. The school knows it’s awesome. You don’t have to tell them how beautiful their buildings are, or how cool this one tradition is. They know.

Here are some common, stereotypical “Why them” statements:

1. Everyone tells me that attending your school will improve my job prospects.

2. Your faculty is world-class, and your facilities are state of the art.

3. I admire the prestige of your amazing institutions and professors.

4. Everyone knows your school and as a result I started looking at your YouTube videos and fell in love.

The reason why these statements are lacking is because they show no insight into 1) what the school is about (their values), 2) what the school offers (their resources), 3) how they would benefit you (connection to your values and interests) or 4) how you would benefit them (your contributions).

It is better to think of this essay as “Why us,” with us = college + you. Why are you perfect for each other? We provide concrete action items for how to avoid a “Why them” essay and craft a strong “Why us” essay below.

#2 . Write about school ranking, location, size, reputation, and weather.

Truth is, everyone notices those surface-level things right off the bat. Everyone knows Harvard is an Ivy League school with a reputation for academic excellence. Everyone knows Silicon Valley is in Stanford’s backyard. Chances are many other students are writing about these things, too, and you don’t want to blend in. Also, by dwelling on these things, you risk coming across as lazy for not doing deeper research.

#3 . Copy and paste from the school website or brochures.

It is critical to do careful school research, including reading the website and brochures carefully. However, don’t just simply copy and paste straight from their website. There is a chance that the person reading your essay is in fact the person who wrote the material on the website, and you don’t want this to happen. Instead, think about how you can rephrase key information in your own word, or better yet, elaborate on what these things mean to you.

#4 . Get niche information or proper names wrong.

Proofread, again and again. It already looks bad if there are typos or grammatical errors, but it would look much worse if a mascot name is misspelled, or if a niche information (such as a major) is inaccurate. If you are writing about how you are excited to work with a particular professor, triple-check that you got their name down correctly. Getting unique things wrong is the quickest way to reveal insufficient research.

Now that you know what to avoid, let’s get on with some concrete steps to write a “Why us” college essay that stands out.

#1 . Research extensively and carefully

Diligent research should be a given for any college essay, but especially so for the “Why us” college essay, as you must be able to provide specific examples for how you and the school would be a great fit for each other. While doing your research, here are a few topics you can dive into:

1. School culture (school values and vision, what the study body is like, spaces for specific identities, etc.)

2. Academic opportunities (majors, classes, professors, research opportunities & facilities, study abroad opportunities, initiatives, etc.)

3. Co-curricular activities and student organizations (student clubs, pre-professional organizations, internships and externships, fellowships, etc.)

4. Residential life (housing options, networking opportunities, food and dining, etc.)

Here are some ways you can learn more about a college:

1. Study their websites.

2. Talk to a current student or alumni. You usually can write to the college’s admission email address to ask to be connected with a student.

3. Talk to an admission officer, local rep, and/or professor.

4. Read expert reviews. Some resources you can check out are:

1. Princeton Reviews 2. Fiske Guide to Colleges 3. Colleges That Change Lives 5. Read student reviews

Unigo.com has great question prompts and a host of answers that can help you understand students’ perspectives if you don’t have the chance to talk to an actual current student or alum.

Reddit often has a subreddit that is specific to the school. You can get a lot of unfiltered thoughts about a school there.

6. Do an in-person or virtual tour 7. Attend college fairs. 8. To know about specific classes, read syllabi.

#2 . Fill out this chart (courtesy of The College Guy)

As explained above, an excellent “Why us” essay should be as much about how the college would be a good fit for you as how you would be a good fit for the school. This chart will help you organize your information and match the opportunities available at each institution with your interests, goals, and contributions.

The link itself contains columns that include a list of what you want, socially, academically and personally along with what the institution offers. This helps you correlate what you want with what the college offers, so you can connect the two in an essay. This kind of deep connection can sometimes be the make or break of acceptances at selective institutions. It will serve you well to pay attention here.

#3 . Use this opportunity to highlight your significant qualities and interests

Think of this essay as another place for you to really reiterate your significant qualities and interests, but in the context of a particular school environment. Does the college have a strong Education program with a lot of opportunities for research, student teaching, and hands-on experience? Awesome. However, this information is only relevant if you are passionate about education and want to engage in that field.

To really illustrate how you and the college would be a good match, first note down 2-3 things that you absolutely want colleges to know about you. This could be your academic interests, your personal characteristics, your niche hobbies, among other things.

Then, using your information in the chart and your 2-3 crucial things above, practice writing “Why us” statement using this formula: School feature + Connection to You = Why Us.

Example 1: The school’s emphasis on global engagement and diverse offerings of study abroad programs (School Feature) provide a platform for me to nurture my intercultural competence, which is vital to my identity as someone who has lived in four different countries (Connection to You).

Example 2: Project-based courses such as “Design Thinking & Communication” (School Feature) will help me grow as a designer (Connection to You) in developing, testing, and prototyping creative solutions while giving me the opportunity to make meaningful social contributions (Connection to You) by working with a local client to address a in the community.

#4 . Be specific

As much as the word count affords you, be specific. Provide concrete examples. Don’t just talk about general area such as “the Economics major” or “the various student clubs on campus.” Tell them what exactly about the Economics major interests you. Is it a particular class? A professor? How about research opportunities? Similar things can be asked about the “student clubs” feature.

Expand on your “Why us” statements above with more specificities. If you have mentioned your plan to pursue a particular major, follow up with a handful of classes that interest you and why, such as Example 2 above. If you are discussing the variety of student organizations, name 2-3 clubs you’d like to join that center around different interests. If you want to do research, name a center you want to be part of, or an opportunity you want to seize. In reviewing your writing, the key is to scan for capitalizations: you (almost) want to name drop!

If you only take one thing away from this blog, let it be that the “Why us” college essay should be about you and college together.

Recent Posts

What Matters in College Essays

How to Choose a Topic for the Personal Statement

Opmerkingen

Think you can get into a top-10 school? Take our chance-me calculator... if you dare. 🔥

Last updated March 21, 2024

Every piece we write is researched and vetted by a former admissions officer. Read about our mission to pull back the admissions curtain.

Blog > Essay Advice , Supplementals > How to Write a Why Us Supplemental Essay

How to Write a Why Us Supplemental Essay

Admissions officer reviewed by Ben Bousquet, M.Ed Former Vanderbilt University

Written by Alex McNeil, MA Admissions Consultant

Key Takeaway

The "Why Us" supplemental essay is an opportunity to show alignment with your chosen college. To effectively write this essay, conduct in-depth research on the school's academic programs, values, and unique features that relate to your interests. Craft your essay to showcase how these elements resonate with your personal, academic, and professional goals. Avoid common mistakes such as vague connections or focusing on unrelated aspects of the school.

This post is one in a series of posts about the supplemental essays. You can read our core “how-to” supplemental post here .

The “Why Us” supplemental essay prompt—also known as the “Why This College” prompt—is one of the most common types of supplemental essays you’ll write during your application journey.

At the most basic level, Why Us prompts ask students to describe why they have decided to apply to the college in question.

Why Us prompts are important for both colleges and applicants.

When admissions officers review applications, Why Us supplementals help them understand how a student’s background, goals, values, and academic inclinations align with the school’s offerings. They also help admissions officers assess how serious a student is about wanting to attend the institution in question.

For applicants, Why Us essays allow you to make your case for school fit. They are the perfect opportunity for you to stand (metaphorically, of course) in front of the admissions committee and explicitly explain why you belong at a school.

In short, Why Us or Why this College essays let you explicitly tell admissions officers how you align with a school so you don’t have to leave the guesswork up to them. Let’s get into how you can write a Why Us essay that stands out.

What is a Why Us Supplemental essay?

Why Us supplementals can have a few variations, but they all get at a common question. Take a look at the following three examples.

1: University of Chicago

How does the University of Chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future? Please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to UChicago.

2: Duke University

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.

3: University of Michigan

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?  (Required for all applicants; minimum 100 words /maximum 550 words)

Why Us Essay Strategy

To write a good one, you need to know something about the school—you’ll need to do your research.

By this point, you probably already know a bit about the schools you’re applying to. After all, you’ve hopefully built your school list based on schools that best align with your academic interests, stats like GPA and test scores, and personal interests like school type and location.

Now’s the time to put those key areas of convergence into action.

The key to writing these essays is to do some deep research into the school you’re applying to. If you’re focused on applying to schools that have esports programs, you need to find a compelling way to articulate your interests that aligns you with the school and its offerings.

A school’s offerings don’t always need to be academic, but it helps. They can also be social, athletic, or cultural.

Often, however, students have a harder time writing essays about cultural or social fit that don’t feel superficial. It’s not enough to write an essay about how nice everyone was when you took a college tour.

Instead of focusing entirely on a single experience you had while visiting the campus, talking to an alum, or being interviewed, do some serious research into the school and how it would fit you as a student and a member of the campus community.

How to do Why Us School Research

School research is an important step in writing good supplemental essays. But it’s absolutely essential for Why Us essays.

Why Us essays are all about making an argument for school fit. They’re your main opportunity to say, “Hey, admissions officer. I belong at your school!”

So what does any good argument need? That’s right—research.

Because schools want to see that you a) have taken the time to get to know the institution and b) can make a case for why you belong at the school, you’ll need to do good research and use it in a way that best supports your case.

The research you do may depend on the specific prompt Why Us prompt you’re responding to. But in general, there are two kinds of research you can focus on.

Method 1: Find Academic Alignment

The first place you can focus your research is, of course, on academics. Since colleges are schools, showing your academic alignment is a safe bet.

So what is “academic alignment” anyway?

Academic alignment means that your academic background, interests, and goals match up with what a school has to offer. Schools don’t want to admit students whose academic needs they can’t meet, and students shouldn’t seek out schools where they won’t be able to accomplish their academic goals.

This alignment can appear in a variety of places. Here are some of the most common:

• Major options
• Special concentrations or programs
• Faculty research and labs
• Student research opportunities
• Academic initiatives and projects
• Study abroad programs
• Community partnerships
• Classroom philosophies

To find this information, you’ll need to scour not just the school’s website but also the website of the specific department you’re interested in applying to.

In your research, there are lots of places you can look:

• Course lists
• Faculty biographies
• Faculty CVs (these are basically faculty resumes that list all the academic work they’ve done)
• Academic articles and books written by faculty members
• Research lab websites
• News stories about academic research and awards

With these facts in hand, you can write supplemental essays that draw specific points of connection between you and a school.

Method 2: Find Values Alignment

Academic alignment is an obvious and common approach to Why Us essay prompts. But there is also a less common approach. Take your Why Us supplemental essays a step further by looking at school values.

All colleges and universities have specific values that guide the institution. That’s why schools have mission statements that lay out what the institution is all about.

To find school values for your Why Us supplemental essays, look for a school’s motto, mission statement, or strategic plan.

Mottos sum up an institution’s values-based framework. School mottos are typically established at an institution’s founding. Often they’re in Latin and have English translations

Example: Yale’s motto is Lux et Veritas or “Light and Truth.”

Mission statements are statements about an institution’s values and purpose. They lay out and are occasionally revised or updated as institutional priorities change.

Strategic plans are documents published by university leadership. They establish a working plan the university will follow over the next several years. They often lay out strategic initiatives and reveal where the institution wants to invest the most time and resources. These initiatives often revolve around social

Brand identity is a way universities ensure all of their communications sound the same. While these aren’t always public, you can often look up a university’s brand guidelines. These guidelines are written for university employees who communicate to the public on behalf of the university. While there’s no specific way you can incorporate these guidelines into your essays, they can give you a very clear sense of how a university thinks of and markets itself. With that knowledge in hand, you can write an essay that shows exactly how you fit into the ethos of the institution.

Example: Vanderbilt has a comprehensive brand identity page.

Showing that your values align with those of an institution

Method 3: Find Other Alignment

Why Us essays don’t just have to be about academics and values. They can also be about areas of interest that you hold dearly, like music, community service, athletics, and more. If you’re a die-hard Scrabble player and notice that the school has a Scrabble club, then that’s a unique feature that you can draw out in your supplementals.

Pick your strengths and lean in. If you're a track star, find something about the athletic culture. If you're a musician, research the community music program. If you love creative writing... you get it. Schools love to see students who have a clear vision of where they're going and why.

Scour a school’s website and social media channels for these unique and compelling connections.

Step 1: Choose the major you THINK you’d like to study at the school. It’s OK to not know for certain!

Look at the majors and minors offered at the school and get a sense of what interests you. Once you have a decent idea about what specific program you might be interested in exploring…

Step 2: Do a deep dive into that program and learn about the work being done by faculty in the department.

What do the professors study? Are there any interdisciplinary centers on campus that you could see yourself participating in? Learn about what real students do on campus and familiarize yourself with what  specific  academic and extracurricular opportunities might be available to you on campus.

Step 3: Think about how these opportunities could be applied to your other interests and passions. Try to find an interdisciplinary connection.

Be creative here, and specific. Unlike the Common App essay, where reflection is key, in the Why X essay you are looking forward. Talk about what you  will  do if accepted. Be as specific as you can. Make your readers feel as if you’ve really done your homework and have a good reason for applying to the school.

Why Us Supplemental Essay Example

It helps to have an example, so I'll walk through how I would help a student research a school and write a Why Us supplemental essay.

To start, let’s say the student in question is interested in studying psychology and wants to get involved in prison abolition efforts.

To add extra granularity, let's pretend this student's top choice program is Lewis & Clark College.

Now let’s go step-by-step through the Why Us research process.

Step 1: Choose the major you THINK you’d like to study at the school.

Our first step is to explore L&C's psychology program. Our hypothetical student is academically inclined. Thus, our focus in the supplemental will be on demonstrating the strong fit between the school's academic climate and the student's intellectual interests.

So we google "Lewis & Clark psychology" and navigate our way to  the department page .

We know we want to do research while in college, so the "research" tab on the right side of the page jumps out right away. Let's navigate to that page and see what's up.

We quickly realize that L&C emphasizes research, and particularly emphasizes the opportunity for students and faculty to collaborate on research.

Cool. So now we have some ammo to work with in the supplemental essay. We can "demonstrate fit" by writing about our interest in pursuing research alongside a faculty member while studying psychology. Boom.

Scrolling through the page, I also notice that the L&C Psychology Department is touting their summer research opportunities and their history of placing students in nearby research labs. More stuff to say you're interested in.

Remember, by contrast with the Common Application essay, which is about your life, the supplemental is all about sketching a detailed plan for your undergraduate study.

The next step is to enrich your alignment with one of the department's core offerings (research) by finding professors who are conducting research that you'd actually want to help out with.

Read professor bios and take a look at which courses they offer. Or, start with a course catalog, find ones you're interested in, and then figure out which professors teach them.

Mention these folks by name. Talk about how they could enrich your education and help you become the student you hope to be in a few years' time.

Finally, I would recommend balancing out your essay by nodding to one of your extracurricular interests. In this case, our example student is interested in incarceration and prison abolition.

Given these interests, the student could talk about how she intends to study the relationship between early-childhood trauma and incarceration and co-teach psychology classes in L&C's prison education program.

By bringing her academic focus to bear on her interest, she is creating an interdisciplinary focus in her "Why X" essay that will help her stand out.

Most Common Why Us Mistakes

You’re almost ready to start writing. But before you begin, watch out for a few easy-to-make mistakes.

Not making any specific connections to the school.

Hopefully by this point, you know why this is a problem. A Why Us supplemental essay that makes no argument for why you belong at school isn’t adding much to your application.

Unlike a Common App essay that should be applicable to every school you apply to, Why Us supplemental essays should be customized to each school. They should have the school name and any relevant, specific details you want to include.

Feel free to explicitly state the name of a professor you want to work with or the title of a class you want to take. Including these specifics is much better than being overly general because the details show admissions officers that you’ve done your research.

Making connections that are too broad.

Other students try to make connections, but they make them far too broad.

Let’s say you’re writing a Why Us supplemental essay for a liberal arts college.

An inadequate answer to a “Why us?” question would be, “I want to go to your liberal arts college because of the small class sizes.”

While that may be true, it’s not a very good argument for why you’re a good match for the school. It needs to be more specific—about you and the school.

Focusing on features of a school that don’t connect with your background or interests.

The final major mistake students make when writing Why Us supplementals is choosing to focus on details that don’t actually connect to their backgrounds or interests. In other words, students go wrong when they call upon random facts and figures.

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. (200-250 words)

Contrary to popular belief, the Buddha didn’t say “life is suffering”. He said “life is dukkha ”, which roughly translates to anything impermanent , and clinging to that which is impermanent leads to suffering.

My interest in world religions led me to study Buddhism, which led me to practice meditation.(( The writer begins with a compelling hook and jumps quickly into answering the “Why Us” question.)) Soon, I was researching online what neuroscientists observe in the brains of meditators, which brought me to the Mindfulness Center at Brown. Over the past year, I’ve followed an infinite trail of links and videos from the Center’s website about how meditation, an ancient practice present in all religions, influences modern psychology, neuroscience, public health, education, athletics, medicine, and philosophy.

So, I became interested in Brown and just about every academic subject under the sun.(( These school connections are great because they show that the student was learning from Brown’s resources before they even began looking at colleges.)) I want to use my education and career to reduce suffering for others, and this goal transcends disciplines. Brown’s Open Curriculum would allow me to pursue my interdisciplinary interests while embracing my mission of improving lives.

To start, I’d like to branch out from psychology to neuroscience. My most likely path is to emulate neuroscientists like Brown’s Dr. Judson Brewer, who studies the brain on meditation and how mindfulness impacts habit change.(( This reference is specific, relevant, and incorporated seamlessly into the essay.)) I’d also like to try public health courses to learn how organizations impact communities, and biology and chemistry courses to grasp the basics of medicine. All I do is grounded in an understanding of ethics and religion, and I am also interested in the education concentration as I seek to share my ideas with others.(( This final sentence wraps up the essay beautifully by connecting everything back to the writer’s interests and values, which are related to those of the institution they’re applying to.))

Liked that? Try this next.

The Incredible Power of a Cohesive College Application

How to Write Supplemental Essays that Will Impress Admissions Officers

How to Write a Diversity Supplemental Essay

How to Write an Extracurricular Activities Supplemental Essay

"the only actually useful chance calculator i’ve seen—plus a crash course on the application review process.".

Irena Smith, Former Stanford Admissions Officer

We built the best admissions chancer in the world . How is it the best? It draws from our experience in top-10 admissions offices to show you how selective admissions actually works.

Calculate for all schools

Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, writing a 'why us' college essay.

Hello everyone, I need some help writing a 'Why Us' essay for my college applications. How should I approach this type of essay to sound sincere and make a good impression? Are there any examples or tips you could share?

Hello! Writing a 'Why Us' essay can seem challenging, but with the right approach, you can demonstrate your genuine interest and fit for the college. Here are some tips and strategies to consider:

1. Research the college: Spend time on the college's website, read the mission statement, explore academic programs, professors, student clubs, and other extracurricular activities they offer. Look for unique aspects that align with your interests, values, and goals. You may also want to attend a virtual info session, connect with current students, or read their student newspaper to gain more insight.

2. Be specific: Avoid generic statements about the college's reputation or prestige. Instead, focus on particular courses, professors, research opportunities, student clubs, or unique campus traditions that excite you. Mention specific aspects that you can connect to your past experiences, interests, or aspirations.

3. Show how you will contribute: Admissions officers want to see how you will add value to the campus community. Discuss how your background, experiences, or talents will enrich the college's academic and social environment. Connect your current involvements or passions to opportunities, clubs, or programs available at the college.

4. Reflect on why this college is the ideal fit for you: Explain how this college aligns with your academic, personal, and career goals. Relate it to hands-on learning experiences, supportive faculty, strong study abroad programs, or an exceptional career center.

For example, if you're planning to major in psychology, you might write something like:

"I was thrilled to learn about Professor X's research on cognitive development at University Y. As someone who has volunteered with children with learning disabilities, I'm eager to expand my knowledge of this field. I'm excited to join the Cognitive Development Lab, where I can engage in hands-on research and contribute to the ongoing efforts in understanding cognitive processes in children."

By putting in the effort to research and thoughtfully engage with the college's offerings, your 'Why Us' essay will display your genuine interest and make a great impression. Good luck with your applications!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

Our Services

College Admissions Counseling

UK University Admissions Counseling

EU University Admissions Counseling

College Athletic Recruitment

Crimson Rise: College Prep for Middle Schoolers

Indigo Research: Online Research Opportunities for High Schoolers

Delta Institute: Work Experience Programs For High Schoolers

Graduate School Admissions Counseling

Private Boarding & Day School Admissions

Online Tutoring

Essay Review

Financial Aid & Merit Scholarships

Our Leaders and Counselors

Our Student Success

Crimson Student Alumni

Our Reviews

Our Scholarships

Careers at Crimson

University Profiles

US College Admissions Calculator

GPA Calculator

Practice Standardized Tests

SAT Practice Test

ACT Practice Tests

Personal Essay Topic Generator

eBooks and Infographics

Crimson YouTube Channel

Summer Apply - Best Summer Programs

Top of the Class Podcast

ACCEPTED! Book by Jamie Beaton

Crimson Global Academy

+1 (646) 419-3178

Go back to all articles

How To Answer The “Why This College” Essay Prompt

The “Why This College” essay question and its variations are a popular supplemental essay prompt in college admissions. How should you approach this question? When asking “Why This College”, colleges want to know why you, specifically, are a great fit for their school. Read this blog post to learn how the “Why This College” essay prompt fits into the broader application, how to avoid a generic “Why This College” essay, and how to structure and write your essay. You’ll come away knowing exactly how to write an essay that stands out to admissions officers!  

To successfully answer the “Why This College?” supplemental essay, you must first understand the purpose of this question. You see, going to college is like entering a committed, long-term, and potentially expensive relationship. For your part, you have to decide where to live and work for the next 4 years. And the college has to decide whether you deserve a precious spot on campus. A spot that thousands of others are fighting for, too.

In the “Why This College” supplemental essay question, colleges want to know why you, specifically, are a great fit for this particular college.

This question seems straightforward at first glance. But despite its directness, it can be difficult to answer. Lots of answers are overdone, and many students miss the point entirely. In this blog post, we’ll show you a foolproof process for defining and conveying why a college is the *perfect *place for you.

Keep reading to find out how you can create an amazing “Why This College” essay!

What Do Colleges Look for in a “Why This College” Essay?

Going back to the relationship analogy: Imagine your partner asks you “Why do you like me?” You wouldn’t make them feel special if you answered, “Because you’re famous” or, “Because you live near the beach.” You’d make them feel special if you talked about how your unique personalities combine to form the ultimate dream team.

In the “Why This College” or “Why Us” prompt, colleges are looking to see that you know (1) what the school offers and (2) how it aligns with your interests, passions, and values. Your goal with this essay is to sincerely, authentically, and excitedly tell admissions committees:

• What you will get out of going to their school in particular.
• What you will contribute to their school as a student there.
• Which specific opportunities you’ll take advantage of.
• How you’ll bring your skills and past experiences to bear as a leader and collaborator on their campus.

Think of this essay as a bridge between you and the college. It’s your chance to express why you're drawn to it.

Examples of “Why This College” Essay Prompts

The prompts for the “Why This College” essay might differ from school to school. Here are a few examples of different prompts you might encounter.

Yale & Columbia

• What is it about Yale that has led you to apply? (125 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. (200 words or fewer)

Some schools, like Yale and Columbia , keep their prompts brief and open ended, often with a short word count. While the limited space can be a challenge, it also gives you an opportunity to focus on the most important reasons why you want to attend the school.

• We would like to know more about your interest in NYU. What motivated you to apply to NYU? Why have you applied or expressed interest in a particular campus, school, college, program, and or area of study? If you have applied to more than one, please also tell us why you are interested in these additional areas of study or campuses. We want to understand – Why NYU? (400 word maximum)

Other schools like NYU give a bit more detail in their prompts, helping to identify the categories they would like you to discuss: a specific campus, school, area of study, or academic and extracurricular programs. Because you have an expanded word count, make sure to discuss each of the points they ask for in as much detail as possible.

• How does the University of Chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future? Please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to UChicago.

UChicago’s prompt is unique in that it has an open word count. While this may give you the freedom to talk about many topics, your essay should still be concise, cohesive, and well organized to maximize its effectiveness. Notice that this prompt also specifically asks you to focus on your own desires and goals. The admissions officers want to know how attending UChicago will help you achieve these goals — not just what you find interesting about UChicago.

Interested in learning more? Attend one of our free events

Learn how to perfect your application essays for ultra-competitive colleges.

Friday, May 3, 2024 12:00 AM CUT

Discover insider tips and tricks for crafting a memorable personal essay and supplemental essays that stand out, from a Former Harvard Admissions Interviewer and a Northwestern Application Reader!

REGISTER NOW

How the “Why This College?” Essay Fits into the Holistic Application Review

Admissions officers use a holistic approach when evaluating applicants. This means they don’t make decisions based on just one factor. Instead, they consider multiple aspects of your application: academic performance, standardized test scores, recommendation letters, and extracurricular activities.

The "Why This College?" essay plays a unique role in this process. While grades and test scores provide valuable quantitative data, this essay serves as qualitative information that can't be distilled into numbers. It's your chance to breathe life into your application by showcasing your personality, ambitions, and potential contributions to the college community.

Think of this essay as the human touch, where you can share your narrative and explain why you're not just another student — you’re a valuable addition to their campus.

The Admissions Committee's Perspective on the “Why This College?” Essay

To truly master the art of writing the "Why This College?" essay, put yourself in the shoes of the admissions committee. These dedicated professionals aren't just sifting through a stack of papers. They're curating a diverse and vibrant class for their college. They’re looking for students who will not only thrive academically but also contribute to the campus culture

This perspective shift reminds you that this essay isn't just about what you can gain from the college; it's also about what you can give back. Imagine you're sitting at the table with the admissions committee, and your goal is to convince them that you’re an excellent fit for their institution.

The Equation for a Perfect “Why This College” Essay

If you take away only one thing from this article, let it be this: This essay answer isn’t meant to be a song of praise about the school OR an additional list of your achievements. Rather, it’s meant to show how aspects of you complement aspects of the school in mutually beneficial ways.

Your Values and Goals + This College’s Offerings = a Successful “Why This College” Essay

Research: The Key to Avoiding a Generic “Why This College?” Essay that Flops

Sorry to say this, but admissions officers can spot a generic essay from a mile away. ChatGPT can’t write it for you. And nothing signals disinterest more than vague, recycled information.

To craft a compelling essay, you must immerse yourself in the college's culture, values, and offerings.

But before you crawl down the research rabbit hole, let’s give you two questions to guide your focus.

Question 1: “What does this school do that nobody else does?”

Every university has its distinct identity and strengths. It's your job to identify and showcase these unique aspects that resonate with your academic and personal goals.

Highlight what makes this institution stand out for you personally. Is it their groundbreaking research opportunities, renowned faculty, or commitment to community service? Maybe it's the vibrant campus culture, specific majors, or innovative programs. These unique qualities will form the core of your essay, making it authentic and memorable.

“Finding opportunities that you can’t find elsewhere is a great way to tackle [the Why This College] question,” says Eileen Dougherty, a Former Admissions Officer from UPenn. “You don’t want to say, “I’m excited for internships and studying abroad.” You can find those anywhere, so you’re not making a strong case for fit in those responses.”

Once you answer this question, move on to the second question.

Question 2: “How does that particular thing help me become who I want to be?”

More so than any other school, tell them why this thing is the springboard for the rest of your life. To answer this question, you’ll need to tie in aspects of your own personality and goals. This will help admissions officers see how you fit into the life legacy of the college.

Example: A Successful “Why Yale” Essay

Let’s take a look at the way one student addressed both of the above questions in her “Why Yale” Essay:

“My challenges are what fuel my identity and at Yale I would be able to challenge myself further through research. Within the computer science department, I want to expand my knowledge on the creation of various artificial intelligence models, and learn more about how they can be utilized for other pressing classification purposes. I believe under the right mentorship at Yale through their STARS (Science, Technology and Research Scholars) research experience, I can improve not only my skills, but potentially gain insight on how they can be applied to solve other major global issues. As a home to discovery, I would live up to Yale's next generation of innovators in order to continue its mission to improve the world.”

This student refers to the computer science department. She signals she’s aware of the strong reputation of its opportunities to learn about artificial intelligence. She also mentions a specific research program, STARS. At the end, she nods to Yale’s mission to foster innovation and have a positive impact on the world.

The first 7 words of the essay immediately give the reader a glimpse into who this student is. This student doesn’t shy away from challenges — in fact, they live for challenges. Which is great, because studying computer science at Yale will be challenging!

The student expresses their personal interest in artificial intelligence and shows they’re already thinking about how to apply what they’ll learn ( “other classification purposes” ). They finish strong by expressing their desire to solve problems and impact the world, which aligns with Yale’s mission.

Thorough research is the cornerstone of writing an effective "Why This College?" essay. Let these two questions guide you in conducting laser-focused research on your chosen school.

Top 3 "Why This School?" Essay Tips

Tips for Finding Relevant Information

Level 1: Novice Tips

1. College Website: Start with the official college website. You’ll find detailed information about academic programs, faculty, campus facilities, mission statements, and core values. Take notes on what resonates with you. Certainly don’t regurgitate this information word-for-word in your essay — but it can be a good starting point.

2. Tours and Webinars: It’s ideal if you can get to a school to see it in person. If not, take advantage of virtual tours to get insights into campus life, student experiences, and the college's philosophy. Check out:

• A Day in the Life at top colleges Youtube series
• CampusTours
• Tours on your chosen school’s website

3. Speaking with Current Students and Alumni: Reach out to current students or alumni if possible. Colleges often have a network of representatives who are happy to talk to prospective students. Check their website or give them a call to ask about these opportunities.

4. Reading Student Reviews: Websites like Niche and College Confidential feature student reviews and discussions. Read these to gauge the sentiment of at least some students. They are opinions, so take them with a grain of salt!

Level 2: Expert Tips

• Google “unique courses at [university name]”. If you fancy yourself a Wordle champ, you might be itching to join Princeton’s “Wordplay: A Wry Plod from Babel to Scrabble.” Or perhaps you excel at procrastinating — then UPenn’s “Wasting time on the Internet” might be your time to shine.
• Google “[university name] traditions”. You know, like Georgetown’s Healy Howl or Cornell’s Dragon Day. Not that you should write your essay about this tradition — it’s likely overdone. But it could give you inspiration and help you capture the school’s character in your essay.
• Call the admissions office. Seriously, you can just do that. You’ll be able to talk to a rep who can answer your questions. And they might even be the one who eventually reads your application! As a general rule, don’t ask them anything that you could just Google. Ask thoughtful questions tailored to your situation. You may get some great inspiration for your essay.
• Find a syllabus. If you dig around long enough, you should be able to find a syllabus for a course taught at the school. Mention a detail from it in your essay.

Organizing Your Research

As you gather information, organize your research. Create a system that allows you to access key details quickly when you're ready to start writing. Below are categories you might want to note for each school.

Research Categories

• Majors and Minors Offered
• Unique Academic Programs
• Notable Faculty
• Research Opportunities
• Class Sizes and Teaching Styles
• Extracurricular Activities
• Clubs and Organizations
• Campus Events and Traditions
• Campus Facilities (Libraries, Labs, etc.)
• Student Demographics
• Geographic Location
• Proximity to Urban Areas
• Regional Opportunities
• Local Culture and Attractions
• Acceptance Rate
• SAT/ACT Score Averages
• Admission Requirements
• Application Deadlines
• Financial Aid and Scholarships
• Special Programs (Honors, Study Abroad, etc.)
• Notable Alumni
• Awards and Recognitions
• Campus Sustainability Initiatives
• Community Engagement
• Your Personal Observations
• Thoughts and Feelings During Virtual Tours
• Insights from Conversations with Students and Alumni
• Overall Campus Vibe

Organization Tips

• Digital Notes: Create a digital document (Word, Google Docs) with these categories and add your findings under each one as you research. Use bullet points or numbered lists for easy readability.
• Color Coding: Assign a specific color to each category for visual organization. Highlight or tag information with the corresponding color to quickly locate details.
• Separate Documents: If you prefer a more detailed approach, consider creating separate documents or folders for each college you're researching. Inside each folder, have subfolders corresponding to the categories listed above.
• Spreadsheets : Use spreadsheet software (Excel, Google Sheets) to create a table with columns for each category. This allows you to input data systematically and sort information easily.
• Note-Taking Apps: Utilize note-taking apps such as Evernote or OneNote to organize your research digitally. Create notebooks for each college, and within them, separate notes by categories.
• Physical Binder: If you prefer a tangible approach, use a binder with dividers for each category. Print and organize physical materials like brochures and handwritten notes.

With this organized system, you'll have a clear overview of the colleges you're researching so you can easily craft a compelling "Why This College?" essay.

Creating a Personalized List of Reasons

“Personalized” is the key word here. After conducting thorough research, hopefully you can come up with at least 3 honest reasons why you want to go to this school in particular . (If not, maybe you shouldn’t be applying there!)

List out your personalized reasons for wanting to attend this school. Now you can begin crafting your essay around them.

How to Structure Your "Why This College" Essay

One of the primary objectives of the "Why This College?" essay is to demonstrate how your academic and personal goals align with what the college has to offer. Admissions officers want to see that you can articulate precisely why you think this college is the ideal place to pursue your ambitions. Discuss specific programs, courses, or opportunities that the college provides and how they directly relate to your goals. Whether it's access to renowned professors, cutting-edge research facilities, or unique extracurricular activities, highlight the aspects of the college that make it the perfect fit for your future.

Here’s a suggestion for the general architecture of the essay:

1. Introduce your reasons for applying to this particular college.  

2. Follow this up with facts about the college that attracted you. Include a few reasons why the college is a great fit for your interests and goals. 

3. Conclude by expressing why you would be a great addition to the school. 

Make sure that your essay is well organized and concise. Provide real reasons why the school is a perfect match for your talent and aspirations. With some thoughtful planning and research, you can craft an impressive essay that will surely help your application stand out.

Tips for Writing a Compelling Introduction to the “Why This College” Essay

Admissions officers appreciate essays that engage them from the very beginning. This makes them eager to learn more about the applicant behind the words. Below are some strategies for starting the essay.

1. Anecdote or personal story: Share a brief personal story that relates to your interest in the college. It could be an experience that sparked your curiosity or a moment when you realized the college's unique offerings aligned with your goals.

Example: “One step on Dartmouth’s campus and I knew it was somewhere to be treasured. On that November day, I was far from my California home, but it felt warm, despite the snow.” 

2. A relevant quote. Sometimes, a well-chosen quotation or a surprising fact can serve as an excellent opening. Ensure that it's directly related to your reasons for choosing the college, as this sets the stage for what follows.

Example: "Feminism is not a job or a mask you can take off at the end of the day. Feminism is a lifestyle." –Alina Cebotari, Moldovan Intersectional Feminist. I keep remembering the feminists that have raised me, while I immerse myself in Barnard’s trailblazing alumnae community. 

3. A thought-provoking question. Engage your readers with a thought-provoking question. Make it relevant to the college and your aspirations. This approach encourages your audience to reflect on the question and seek answers within your essay.

Example: “Have you ever experienced a sense of awe that transcends the ordinary?” 

This student goes on to tell the story of the moment she knew she wanted to study architecture and connects with specifics of Cornell’s excellent architecture program.

Do’s and Don’ts Your “Why This College” Essay

• DO connect your goals and values with those of the school. Discuss the college's commitment to diversity, community engagement, or any other values that resonate with you. Share personal experiences or beliefs that demonstrate your dedication to upholding these values.
• DO articulate your academic aspirations. Explain how your intended major or field of study aligns with the college's strengths.
• DO showcase a commitment to personal growth. Highlight how the college's unique opportunities will contribute to your personal development. Whether it's the chance to engage in research, participate in leadership programs, or immerse yourself in a vibrant campus community, emphasize how these experiences will help you grow as an individual.
• DO discuss specific programs, courses, or professors. Go beyond generic statements and mention specific programs, courses, or professors that have captured your interest. Whether it's an innovative research project, a renowned professor's work, or a unique interdisciplinary course, show you’re aware of what sets this college apart academically.
• DO describe extracurricular activities and clubs. This is your chance to showcase which campus groups you're eager to join. Discuss clubs, organizations, or extracurricular activities that align with your interests or values. Describe how you envision yourself getting involved and making a meaningful impact. Admissions officers value applicants who show a clear intention to contribute to the college's vibrant campus life.
• DO mention *specific* internship, research, or study abroad opportunities. Explain how these experiences will enrich your education and prepare you for future success. Discuss any specific projects, organizations, or destinations that have piqued your interest.
• DO demonstrate knowledge of campus resources. Discuss how access to *specific* libraries, research centers, or academic support services will help your studies. ****
• DON’T write about the school’s size, location, or weather. Many schools are beautiful. Plenty of schools have great weather or are near the beach. For any school you apply to, you can find at least 20 that are the exact same size. Avoid these generic features. Instead focus on why this specific school calls to you.
• DON’T make generic or vague statements . Avoid phrases like "your esteemed institution" or "world-class faculty," which are too generic to hold any real meaning. Instead, be specific. Specificity adds authenticity and depth to your essay, demonstrating your genuine interest in the college.
• DON’T use clichés. Admissions officers read countless essays with worn-out phrases like "dream school" or "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity". To stand out, use original language and anecdotes that reflect your personal connection to the school.
• DON’T focus solely on prestige and rankings. Admissions officers want to see that you're genuinely excited about what the college has to offer — beyond its reputation. Instead of excessively praising the school or listing rankings, delve into specific details about its programs, values, and community that align with your goals.
• DON’T repeat other parts of your application. Every word on your application takes up precious real estate. Avoid reusing personal experiences, achievements, or even school’s resources that you have mentioned in other essays or sections of the application.
• DON’T forget to proofread and edit. Nothing kills an otherwise lovely essay like careless errors! After drafting your essay, take the time to proofread it carefully and have someone else review it.

Final Thoughts

The “Why This College” Essay is an important part of your application. It’s one of the best places for admissions officers to learn who you are and why you’re dying to go to their school. Although it requires a lot of research and thought, a strong “Why This College” Essay will make a compelling argument for why you would be a great addition to that specific campus.

Going through the research and writing process for this essay might even be a great opportunity for you to figure out what you’re looking for in a school!

By identifying specific resources, crafting detailed descriptions of how they align with your passions and ambitions, and using an authentic writing style, you’ll be on your way to creating a unique, personal, and effective “Why This College” Essay.

If you want to get feedback on your “Why This College” Essay and find out if it's strong enough for the school you're applying to, consider getting it reviewed by a professional using Crimson Education’s Essay Review Service .

Further Reading:

• Free eBook: Write the Perfect Personal Essay
• Free eBook: US Application Supplemental Essays - Everything You Need To Know
• Blog: New Supplemental Essay Prompts 2023-24
• Blog: Can You Answer These Bizarre (But Real) College Essay Prompts?

What Makes Crimson Different

More Articles

What would megan fox's (hypothetical) harvard essay look like.

Unleashing Creativity in Research: How High Schoolers Can Find Unique and Engaging Research Topics

Can Colleges See How Many Times You’ve Taken the SAT?

Start Your Journey To A Top University Today!

Crimson students are up to 7x more likely to gain admission into their dream university. book a free consultation to learn more about how we can help you.

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, how to write an excellent "why tufts" essay.

College Essays

If you're applying to Tufts University, you should already have an answer to "Why Tufts?" But answering the "Why Tufts?" essay question as part of your application requires more than acknowledgement that it's a good school.

This guide to the "Why Tufts" essay prompts will guide you through the requirements, expectations, and strategies you need to write an exemplary essay.

Feature Image: HereToHelp /Wikimedia Commons

What's the Purpose of a "Why This School?" Essay?

To craft a good "Why Tufts?" essay, you need to understand the prompt. It's not about listing a school's qualifications or discussing how beautiful the campus is—a good essay will explain not just why the school is good, but why the school is good for you .

This essay is a common one at many schools. Colleges want to know what brings you to them specifically, including what interests you and how you'll contribute to the student body. Though the question of "why" may feel simple, it's a lot more complex than it appears at first glance .

First of all, the college admissions office wants to know what sets their school apart from others. In Tufts' case, that could be their history as a research university , which puts undergrads in closer contact with graduate students and encourages more communication between people in different fields of study. It could also be their emphasis on interdisciplinary studies , or a positive experience you had while touring the campus .

Use the question of "why" as a starting point . Don't stop at, "because I like that I can study engineering and English." Develop that idea further—What does that mean to you? Why does it matter?

The "Why This College?" essay also invites students to think about how they'll fit into the academic environment. Schools want to know that you're a good fit—it's to their benefit to recruit students who are passionate and committed to getting the most out of their college education.

If it wasn't, Tufts wouldn't have an acceptance rate of around 11 percent . They want students who will contribute to the learning environment and bring creativity, innovation, and curiosity to the classroom. Read and understand Tufts' mission statement before writing your essay so you're informed about what these traits mean, and how you can contribute to realizing their vision as a student .

But it's not just about whether you'll fit in—it's also important that Tufts is a good fit for you. That doesn't mean having your major or whatever clubs you might want to join, but also that your goals align with theirs. The interdisciplinary approach isn't right for every student, and others may prefer the more classic separation of undergrads and graduate students. Having a clear idea about your goals as well as theirs will help you excel, and Tufts will appreciate the clarity .

Your "Why Tufts?" essay isn't just good for the school, it's good for you, too. When you think deeply about why you want to attend a particular school, it makes you even more excited to attend, and that passion is precisely what schools want to see.

Thinking in-depth about your college choices also makes you learn more about schools and how they support your goals, which is instrumental for choosing the right school.

As you're thinking about your Tufts essay, you might learn things about the school that may not be a good fit, and it's better to learn that now than six months after you've moved onto campus. Though one or two missed checkboxes in your dream school criteria isn't necessarily a reason to pull your application, having realistic expectations for your college experience will set you up for a more positive time at the school of your choice.

What Is the "Why Tufts?" Essay Really Asking?

"Why Us?" essays may look as if they're asking a simple question—why do you want to attend this school—but there's more to it than that. These essays are also often asking one of two questions: "why us?" or "why you?"

In essence, these essays want you to describe why they're the right school for you, or why you're the right student for them . Paying attention to how the question is framed will give you a better sense of what kind of answer they're looking for, which will help you shape your essay.

Tufts actually has two versions of the "Why Us?" essay, depending on which department you're applying to. Each one asks a different version of the question, with one version emphasizing your role as a student in a community ("Why You?") and what appeals to you about the school ("Why Us?").

To figure out which one you'll be responding to, use Tufts' Majors and Minors page . This tool allows you to select which programs you're interested in and displays the school department beneath.

If You're Applying to the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Engineering, or 5-Year Tufts/NEC Combined Degree:

This prompt has a 100 to 150 word limit. The prompt asks:

Which aspects of the Tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application? In short, "Why Tufts?" (100-150 words)

This prompt is a pretty standard "Why X School?" style of essay. Notice that the prompt is asking you to discuss certain aspects of your undergraduate experience. That means the prompt expects you to talk about one or two elements of attending Tufts in detail, not write a laundry list of the things you love about the school.

Put another way: this essay wants you to be specific about why you want to go to Tufts and prove to the admissions committee that it's the right school for you!

If You're Applying to the BFA or 5-Year BFA+BA/BS Combined Degree at the SMFA:

This prompt, also 100 to 150 words, applies to students who are on one of the above listed fine arts tracks. This prompt reads:

Which aspects of the Tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application? Why SMFA at Tufts? (100-150 words)

This question still asks about your application, but pay attention to the focus—it's more interested in why you want to be part of the SMFA program in particular. In answering this question, stay away from blanket statements about the university as a whole, like the robust number of extracurricular programs or Tuft's other undergraduate degree offerings.

Your answer should discuss what draws you to this program, not the school in general. Look through their mission statement, the experiences of other applicants, and preferably visit the campus for a tour to help you better explain why this school draws you in over others .

Because you're applying to the SMFA, you need to know what that is and how it differs from the rest of Tufts University. Why this program specifically? What will the SMFA add to your experience that education at a different school would not?

How to Write your "Why Tufts?" Essay, Step by Step

With only 100 to 150 words to answer these prompts, you'll likely need to go through multiple essay drafts to get your response into prime shape. Not only do you have a low word count, but these are also complex topics. Though planning might feel like more work in the short term, it'll help you write a stronger essay from beginning to end .

Step 1: Brainstorming

Start by reading the question. Not just reading the words that are there, but really striving to understand the question beyond the prompt.

Spend some time writing down different potential angles, then sort through them to find the one that works best for you. Your essay should be clear and specific to Tufts— if you can substitute in the name of another school and have it make sense, your essay isn't specific enough .

During brainstorming, come up with as many ideas as you can. Set a timer for five to ten minutes, and think of lots of different answers to the prompt. Don't worry if they're kind of out there or undeveloped; you can always cut them or expand later !

The General Prompt

For the first prompt, consider how which aspects of going to Tufts make it the best school for you. To do this, it helps to reframe the question like this: "What can Tufts do for me that no other school can?" It's also worth thinking about how you can contribute to the school in ways that are...well, uniquely you!

Maybe you're interested in tackling issues related to climate change, and you want to be part of Tufts's research on water purification because you know clean water will become a scarce resource. Or maybe you want a career in museum curation and education, so Tufts's Museum Education combined degree is perfect for you.

The point is that you need to be specific and clear about how Tufts is the only school that can help you achieve your goals.

Along with researching programs and professors, it's also a good idea to cite specific moments from tours, if you've taken them. If you haven't taken a tour, you could refer to alumni who inspire you, courses you find on the website, or other features unique to Tufts. "Unique" is key—whatever you say, Tufts' curriculum, mission, or other specific features should support it .

For example, you could mention the school's emphasis on interdisciplinary learning. Does it matter to you that your education at Tufts will be inclusive of other disciplines rather than focused entirely on your field? Why or why not?

The SMFA Prompt

For the prompt that's SMFA focused, consider the program and what makes you want to be part of it. Why an art degree? Why an art degree at Tufts? Why an art degree at Tufts in the SMFA program, specifically?

These might seem like redundant questions, but considering every angle of "Why SMFA?" will lead to a stronger essay . Look through the course catalog and see what it has to offer—courses like "Creative Futures: Business Essentials for Artists" are unique to this program, and it's worth understanding what they offer that other programs don't. Tying that into your essay along with why you want an art degree proves that you're serious about your discipline and understand what exactly Tufts will add to your education.

Also consider how the SMFA and Tufts University intersect. SMFA is a school within a school, and it's important to understand how it differs from the School of Arts and Sciences.

Again, cite moments from a tour if you can, or be specific about particular artists, artworks, or other features of Tufts that inspire you to attend there. The more you can tie your response specifically to Tufts rather than any other school, the better .

Step 2: Avoid Generalities

When writing, avoid being too general. Again, if you can substitute in the name of another school and have your essay still make sense, you need to make it more specific . The question is, "Why Tufts?" so be sure that you answer that as thoroughly as possible—and stay within your word count, of course.

Some students default to talking about sports or campus appearance to set the stage. Avoid that, if you can. Tufts already knows about their sports teams and how pretty the campus is, and if other people are doing it, you don't want to follow suit. Your essay should be uniquely you !

"Why Tufts?" may be the question, but avoid being too shallow. Think beyond academics and reputation; your essay should consider how Tufts will help you, and how you'll help Tufts .

Step 3: Write Efficiently

The essay is short, so you're really going to have to hone in on one particular feature or event . Be prepared to edit and revise multiple times—have people you trust look over it and give you feedback, and do your best to follow it.

Eliminate extra words; in the first sentence in the previous paragraph, I could easily change "you're really going to have to hone," into "you'll have to hone" and save myself three words. It's a small change, but three words means a lot when you only have 150!

Summarize any experience you want to draw on quickly so you have time to talk about why it matters. Be brief; you want to expand where it matters rather than spending a lot of time on scenic details ("The sun was rising as I first arrived in Medford, my hands trembling from nervousness and too much coffee on an empty stomach," is great detail, but if it's not telling the school "Why Tufts?" then it has to go!).

In short, every word should be pulling weight in your argument rather than taking up space .

"Why Tufts?" Essay Writing Checklist

As you progress through each draft, run through this checklist to be sure you're on target.

Are You Being Specific?

Can you rewrite the essay with the name of another college? If you can, be more specific.

Have You Mentioned Real-Life Experiences?

Tying your essay to a specific, real-life experience (such as a tour of the college) or a person (a representative of Tufts that you've spoken with, someone who's graduated, or similar) gives it more specificity. Concrete detail will make your essay feel more solid.

Have You Answered What Makes the School Special?

Think beyond academics, sports, or prestige. What makes Tufts the right school for you above all others? Why not Columbia , UC Berkeley , or the University of Minnesota ? You don't have to answer "why not?" in your essay, but you should know the answer when you're writing.

Have You Connected What Makes the School Special to Your Interests?

Readers should be able to draw a clear line from the answer to "Why Tufts?" to you as a student. Okay, so you met an adviser who not only got your love of botany, but who understood exactly how a love for grass-type Pokemon led you to pursue gardening and eventually botany. What does this mean to you, and how does it contribute to your desire to attend Tufts?

Have You Demonstrated an Understanding of School Culture?

Tufts is quite clear about their campus culture—intellectual curiosity, research, and interdisciplinary learning are all core parts of their mission. If you can demonstrate this in your essay, you'll be set to impress!

What Does a Great "Why Tufts?" Essay Look Like?

One of the best ways to understand what Tufts is looking for in responses to their "Why Tufts?" prompts is to see what people who have gotten in have written. Thankfully, Tufts makes this easy, putting several essays that worked online for you to read . Keep in mind that the prompts for these essays may have been phrased slightly differently, but at their heart, they're all "Why Tufts" essays...which means good essays in this category all share the same characteristics!

Here's an example of a successful "Why Tufts?" essay:

As a girl interested in computer science it's common when visiting university websites to utter "you go, girl" to the lone female faculty member smiling proudly amidst a male-dominated CS department. However, Tufts is a unique community that not only encourages minorities in STEM, but actively recruits female faculty like the spunky and inspirational activist/engineer/professor/entrepreneur Dr. Laney Strange, who I met at Girls Who Code. With my passions ranging from multimedia art to Latin American culture to CS, Tufts excites me since it's where diverse interests are celebrated and where I can have stimulating conversations with anyone I meet on campus.

Let's go through this essay using our checklist to understand exactly why it worked.

Notice how this essay uses specific faculty (and a specific experience with that faculty member) to discuss what appeals to the writer about Tufts. Substituting the name of another school in for Tufts wouldn't work, because this essay goes out of its way to be clear that this is something Tufts offers that other colleges don't.

Participating in Girls Who Code not only demonstrates the writer's interest in computer science, but also gives her a connection to the school beyond its reputation. That tie to Tufts gives her some additional insight into campus culture.

This writer frames her essay around empowering women in computer sciences, but, more importantly, how Tufts excels in a way that many schools do not.

As a female computer sciences student, prominent female faculty in the CS department is clearly important to the writer—something that comes through because of how neatly she ties her field to her specific experience and again to Tufts.

The writer not only cites female faculty in the CS department, but also the school's interdisciplinary education. She clearly has a familiarity with Tufts educational goals, making this essay an excellent example of not just, "Why Tufts?" but also "Why You?"

As you can see, this writer ticked all the checkboxes for a great "Why Tufts?" essay ...which is the goal!

Let's take a look at an SMFA-specific essay that worked. Another writer answered the "Why SMFA?" prompt like this:

As an artist, I believe that one's work should reflect the world beyond it. Thus, I'm most attracted to Tufts SMFA's combination of rigorous artistic study with a challenging liberal arts curriculum at the School of Arts and Sciences. I want to inform my art-making with in-depth exploration of sociology, justice, and international relations, creating works that comment on global issues--a prospect uniquely possible at Tufts SMFA. With numerous opportunities for combining art and community work on campus and in Boston, the SMFA program shows art isn't only meant for the classroom; it's meant for the world.

This student shows familiarity with the specifics of SMFA, the kind of works the organization produces and showcases, and also how the program is also part of the larger Massachusetts community. While many schools have great art programs, the specificity here ties it uniquely to Tufts.

The previous essay mentioned faculty the student had met with, which isn't always possible. This student may not have had the opportunity to tour campus or meet with representatives, but they still go out of their way to situation Tufts within a place—the wider area of Massachusetts. The more specific you can get, especially mentioning a community, as this writer did, the better.

The last line is particularly good, as it starts out quite specific and balloons out to a wider statement about art's place in the world. The mentions of SFMA's "rigorous artistic study" in conjunction with the "challenging liberal arts curriculum" show that the student has a good understanding of what this program entails, and how it will help them reach their goals.

This essay doesn't mention a particular field, but it does begin with a statement—"I believe that one's work should reflect the world beyond it"—and then goes on to demonstrate how that's true of Tufts. This short essay reads a bit like a condensed five-paragraph essay: thesis, supporting details, and conclusion that tie the whole theme together.

References to SFMA and the School of Arts and Sciences curricula show that the student knows the difference between the two and how they feed into one another. They've clearly done their homework, and it shows in a polished, well thought-out essay that got them into Tufts!

Once again, this writer hit all the important parts of the "Why Tufts?" essay, which ultimately showed admissions counselors that Tufts is the perfect school for them.

What's Next?

The "Why Tufts?" essay is just one of the essays you'll be writing for your application. It pays to understand them ahead of time, so check out this handy guide to the Tufts supplement !

If you need help writing essays for other colleges, this compilation of tips and tricks will help get your writing on track.

Tufts University uses the Common Application, so you'll also be writing essays in response to those prompts as well. This guide will help walk you through the Common Application prompts as well as best practices for answering them!

Melissa Brinks graduated from the University of Washington in 2014 with a Bachelor's in English with a creative writing emphasis. She has spent several years tutoring K-12 students in many subjects, including in SAT prep, to help them prepare for their college education.

Student and Parent Forum

Our new student and parent forum, at ExpertHub.PrepScholar.com , allow you to interact with your peers and the PrepScholar staff. See how other students and parents are navigating high school, college, and the college admissions process. Ask questions; get answers.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Improve With Our Famous Guides

• For All Students

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 160+ SAT Points

How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 800 on Each SAT Section:

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading

Score 800 on SAT Writing

Series: How to Get to 600 on Each SAT Section:

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading

Score 600 on SAT Writing

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For?

15 Strategies to Improve Your SAT Essay

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 4+ ACT Points

How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 36 on Each ACT Section:

36 on ACT English

36 on ACT Math

36 on ACT Reading

36 on ACT Science

Series: How to Get to 24 on Each ACT Section:

24 on ACT English

24 on ACT Math

24 on ACT Reading

24 on ACT Science

What ACT target score should you be aiming for?

ACT Vocabulary You Must Know

ACT Writing: 15 Tips to Raise Your Essay Score

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

Is the ACT easier than the SAT? A Comprehensive Guide

Should you retake your SAT or ACT?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Looking for Graduate School Test Prep?

Check out our top-rated graduate blogs here:

GRE Online Prep Blog

GMAT Online Prep Blog

TOEFL Online Prep Blog

Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”

How to Start a “Why This College” Essay – With Examples

Introduction.

Just when you think you are done with discharging your sweat, tears, and blood in writing your personal statement, then you are hit with a “Why this college” supplemental essay. The query may appear easy though a very critical part in numerous college applications.

The “Why This College” essay aims to show detailed illustrations of why you match a particular college’s requirements.

What does the “Why Us” essay aim to decipher about you? How can you effectively respond to this query without making the same mistake as most rookies do?

In this article, I’ll give you a guide on why colleges need you to respond to “why” you’ve made the application.

I’ll show you how to brainstorm the relevant topics about the question and ensure you sound committed and sincere. Also, I’ll walk you through the “why us” essays do’s and don’ts and provide top examples from previous students as well. However, in case you chose to skip this guide due to reasons such as a busy schedule, our premium writers are ready to ace that “Why this College” essay for you. All you need to do is placing an order with us.

Inside College Admissions

College institutions desire students who desire them. Showing academic interest is crucial even when the given school aims at a higher yield (i.e., the percentage of admitted students who have chosen to enroll).

Yield is both a ranking and financial concern and is seen as a determinant in admission. When there are two equally qualified students, the particular school will choose the most likely to enroll.

Finally, not only will you enroll, but will you be content and happy during your campus days. When the students are satisfied, they, in turn, determine the success of the college – both in a good alumni base and reputation.

Through the admission officer’s minds, while reading student applications, they aim to find many students who will flourish at the college. Even though enrollment and college rankings are significant.

So, you need to prove you and the college are the perfect matches. But how do you do that?

First, I need to reassure you about the demands of writing the essay. Do not despair just because you want to apply to more than one college.

Here’s some good news: use the initial part of the essay for all the essays. Then tailor-make the other half to fit each college. It will reduce your workload a great deal!

Why Colleges Require You to Write the “Why Us” Essay s

The school admissions officers have gone through a pile of student essays to have the best class eventually. So you’ll realize that all they will ask you to state is important as well as meaningful.

The essay is essential in two ways. First, how you manage to answer this question will give the college admissions officers an understanding of whether you value and know the school.

Consequently, when you verbalize why you applied to the school grants you the chance to think about what you intend to achieve in college. It will examine whether the target college fits your aspirations and goals.

What Do Colleges Achieve Out of Scrutinizing Your “Why Us” Essay s

Schools have the intention of understanding three necessary items when they study your essay.

First, they intend to see that you clearly understand what makes that particular school unique and different.

• Have you figured out how the college approaches its learning process?
• Do you understand the school’s values, history, and mission?
• Are you okay with the traditions of the school and how it feels to be a student there?

Secondly, they need to prove that you are the best fit for the school

• What will be your contribution to your college life? How will you set yourself apart in the school?
• What are your interests? Do they agree with the strengths of the school?
• Is there an attribute about you that perfectly synchronizes with some of the school aspects?

And finally, they need to evaluate if the college will, in turn, be your perfect fit.

• Will you become an academic success? Is the school a suitable learning environment?
• What do you intend to take advantage of in the school (e.g., extracurricular clubs, internships, travel/volunteer opportunities, academic programs, etc.)?
• What do you intend to achieve from college? Will the college cater to those needs? Will the school contribute to your future success?

What You Achieve From Writing the “Why This College” Essay s

All through the gruelling procedure of adequately stating the solutions to the queries above, you still stand to win crucially:

• You build your excitement in regards to the college

When you discover opportunities and programs at the school you already are excited about will offer you a firm sense of control when you join it.

Consequently, when you describe the lower schools on the list, you’ll boost the enthusiasm for most colleges.

• It ensures you make the most suitable choice for you

When you write the “Why Us” essays, they will act as your moment of clarity. You may be unable to come up with reasons which make you apply to a certain school. If it still feels that a school may not be the right fit, this will be an appropriate indicator that the school is not your best fit.

The Two Types of “Why This College” Essay Prompts

The essay best depicts a back and forth between the college and yourself. Thus, you’ll answer separate yet related queries.

• “Why us?”   – In this query, you will state why you feel the school is your perfect choice. You will mention what attracts you to it and what you think you will achieve while there.
• “Why You ?”  – In this, you mention why you feel you fit in the school and what abilities/talents/skills/unique qualities you will contribute as a student. You will also explain how you think your future may be impacted by being part of this school.

The colleges will make good use of either of the two queries. The essay leans heavier on the query that is most favoured in the prompt.

For instance, when a prompt leans on “why us?” you’ll need to pay attention to giving the school praises. When it focuses on “why you?” you’ll need to focus on your potential and fit into the school.

Always keep in mind that the two prompts are the two sides of a similar coin. You can work on why you apply for a school to suit each of the two queries.

For example, you wish to get a chance to be tutored by the renowned Professor Y. The “Why Us” essay will, in this case, dwell on how amazing it will be to have a chance to learn from him and how well he leads his department.

Meanwhile, the “why you” essay will show that your future career goals and academic credentials make you a good student for professor Y.

Next up, let’s look at real-life illustrations of the two approaches:

Prompts on “Why Us”

You’ll identify this prompt from the phrases below:

• What do you like best about [this school]?
• Why [this school]?
• Why are you interested in [this school]?
• Why do you want to attend [this school]?
• Why is [this school] a perfect choice for you?

Check out some examples of actual “why us” essay prompts:

• The Tufts University : “How will the features of the Tufts Undergraduate experience prompt you to apply? In Short, “Why Tufts?”
• The Tulane University : “Kindly explain why you have interest in joining this university.”

Prompts on “Why You?”

This particular command slightly changes the situation. The prompt asks questions in the following lines:

• Why are you making this college application to [this school]?
• Why are you at [this school]?
• Why are you a good fit/match for us?
• What do you intend to study, and how will its correspondence be to our program?
• What are you interested in, and how do you intend to pursue them at [this school]?
• How or what will be your contribution?

Below are some relevant examples to this version of a college essay:

• Kalamazoo College: The college community of Kalamazoo is a bustling, thriving community, home to more than 350,000 residents that makes the difference between the other private-owned organizations and us. What are you looking forward to investigating at Kalamazoo in your time?”
• Colorado College: “What drives your wish to join Colorado College, and what do you intend to impact it?”
• Brown University: “In Brown, you’ll learn as much in academic spaces as you will from your peers. How do you intend to contribute to the community at Brown?”
• Babson College: “Your moments are here. Share the experiences or moments which have geared you to make an application to this College.

How to Start a “Why This College” Essay

Regardless of how the college words the prompts, the essay is a give-and-take between the college and you and what you can offer each other.

You will need to quickly check your key ideas and apply both detail and precision to look authentic, sincere, and excited.

How should you efficiently state the advantages you will get from the college?  What additions will you bring to the dream school as an international student?

And how do you ensure you can achieve this with the one or two paragraphs you have been given?

In the following section, we will share a step-by-step process of going about the writing process.

First, I’ll discuss how you need to prepare to write the essay. Next, I’ll show you how to brainstorm your essay topics (and the topics you need to avoid).

I’ll then guide you on how to transform the research and ideas into an actual essay.

Step One: Research the College

Before you can describe the college, you need the information to make the school stand out and appeal to what interests you. So, where do you find this information? And where do you discover the details you need?

Below are some ways to know more about the school.

• Visit the campus in-person

If you happen to go on a campus visit, you will have the best opportunity to get the information you need concerning the college. Take note of the following:

• The name of the tour guide
• The unusual features such as traditions, history, layout, sculptures, and buildings.
• One or two enthusiastic, surprising, or funny things the guide will mention about the school.

You can also try to connect with the faculty while there. If you happen to tour a particular class, remember who teaches it and which one it is.

Try to chat with a student to understand what they love most about the school.  Don’t forget to take note of the answers to the questions you ask.

You might forget if you don’t. Because you might have several campuses to visit.

• Virtual Tour

If you cannot visit the campus personally at the moment, do an online tour from other websites such as YouTube, CampusTours, YOUniversityTV, or the school website.

In the same manner, you can also connect with other students from the college. On various college admissions process websites, you will get the contact information of the already enrolled/ accepted students. You can ask them questions about their experience in that school.

Or, where you are aware of the activity, sport, or department, you are keen on joining, request the admissions office to put you through to students with similar interests.

• Interview the Alumni

If you are slotted for an interview, remember to ask questions about their experience at the college and how joining the school has impacted their lives since they graduated. As usual, write down notes.

• College Fair

If given a chance to attend college fairs, and the college you are interested in has its representation, don’t just pick the college brochures.

Engage the representatives and, where necessary, ask questions in regards to the uniqueness of the school. Take notes on the fascinating details they share with you.

• The School’s Materials

Colleges make publications of different kinds. All this will be essential for your research.

Here are some of the publications you should use in your research. You can also find the resources online.

• Course catalogue and college brochure – Study the school’s mission statement. Check whether their educational philosophy aligns with your own. Are there activities, departments, classes, and programs that seem tailor-made for your needs?
• Alumni magazine – Are there any highlights of the professors? Has the research they have done connected with an activity you have engaged in in the past? On some occasions, the magazine will highlight the intention of the college to expand. They could also be a column for the alumnus. Do any of their experiences stand out?
• School/Campus Newspapers – Students will write mainly about the hot news in school. Thus, the articles are on the best and worst things in school. This will give you enough insight into the life of a student and the available opportunities students are predisposed to on and off campus.
• School social media – The target college most definitely has a page on the major social media sites like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Follow the pages to see what they are posting.

Wikipedia is a good information source when you need to find basic information about a school’s values, traditions, and history. Check out College confidential to get information about the college you are researching.

Another option to take advantage of is to Google essay-worthy topics. You can use examples like “What students have to say concerning [school name]” and [School Name] student forums.

You’ll get a broad perspective, views about particular courses and programs, and insights into students’ real lives.

Step Two: Brainstorming Ideas on Topics of Essay

Now that you have completed the research, what next? You are supposed to use the research in developing a connection point between you and the school of your choice.

• Find the Key Elements in the Research

You have all the information you need with you. From information on the web to lessons from the school publication to conversations with the school representatives and students, and your personal experience in the school.

Sift through the information you have and establish three to five attributes that speak to you. Take that information and link the school’s environment, approach, and life.

That way, it doesn’t matter if the school’s prompt focuses on the “why us” or “why you” aspect of the give and take. You will have a point of entry into the college essay.

But what should you have for the three to five things about the school? What should you focus on in establishing the gem that should be the topic?

You should focus on what interests you and what makes the school unique. Do the research, and establish a multi-dimensional connection with the school.

The school does not need comprehensive statements of how beautiful the historic buildings seem to be. Neither is the school interested in how the brick pathways look.

You should also not rehash the information on the website. Note that all institutions have similarities. Talk about the uniqueness in your school of academic interest.

• Check your gathered information for clarity and colour

Ensure that the three to five things you have established are unique to the school and not similar to any other school.

It would be best if you understood these pointers from your perspective. The point is not to give empty praises to the school but to explain why your experience there will be unique.

The uniqueness you establish about the school should be more meaningful to the college and more specific to you.

For instance, if you have your attention on academics (like the educational philosophy, opportunities, instructors, and courses), link them to your future aspirations or previous work.

The points should not be non-specific or shallow. Do you wish to live in a city? You will find plenty of colleges in one city.

Explain why this particular college in a city with so many other options is suitable for you. Love the school’s stunning architecture?

Many other learning institutions are beautiful too.  Dwell on why the school feels like no other.

Build a more profound connection than just the good geographical location of the school and why you will enjoy the beach and skiing.

• Convert the gem discovered to an essay topic

Each “why this college” type of essay will address both the “why you” and the “why us” bits in this forward-and-back scenario.

Subject to how your focus school worded the prompt, dwell more heavily in that direction.

Since there are two sides to one coin, one can always flip the ideas to have them perfectly work for another prompt.

For instance, the “why us” type of essays can talk about how a school’s project on interdisciplinary is and why it perfectly gels with your project.

In contrast, the “why you” essay will flip the same kind of idea. It’ll state how you’ve taken lessons from your senior projects on how to have a deep value of the school’s interdisciplinary approaches to academics. Thus, this makes you a good fit for the school.

Examples of “Why Us” Topics of Essays

• How specific programs of internship/study-volunteer/ requirement connections will aid you in furthering your intended career goal?
• The college’s approaches to your future choices of major (if you already have an idea) or a combination of several disciplines as your major fit with interests and academic work.
• The laid out infrastructure for the low-income students and how the schools handle financial aid, and what translates to you in opening doors in the future.
• How do you manage to overcome initial disinterests in schools (minimize these negative impressions)? Did you perform adequate research? Learned about the college’s commitments to the community? Did you learn something interesting?
• The positive engagement you performed with the on-session students, faculty, or staff. It should not be about how friendly the people you met were, though.
• An exciting experience you had during the campus tour. Did any of the information surprise you? Was the tour guide passionate? Is there something that happened to change your idea about particular campus life in a positive way?
• Have you discovered any exciting interdisciplinary work in the school which connects your previous high school work/career aspirations/academic interests?
• The school’s history if it has some meaning to you. Has the school taken some unpopular but morally right stance at a critical time in its history?
• An engaging professor from who you cannot wait to get nuggets of wisdom. Is it a professor who has published a book that made you finally understand a topic you had been struggling with?
• A fascinating class in your area of study. You will have additional bonus points in an event where you have on-session students on record talking about it.
• School equipment and facilities such as a specialty library, fleet of boats, or an observatory.
• A certain curriculum you have interests in because it will provide you with excellent knowledge or is articulated uniquely.

Where the college boasts of NASA planes, fit this somewhere, too.

Examples Topics for “Why You” Essay

• Do you intend to proceed with a project you had begun in your high school? Discuss where precisely in your present course, clubs, and programs offered that your project would fit. Why do you qualify as the best addition to the school?
• Do you engage yourself on a project in a community service that is being undertaken in school? Discuss how you will integrate campus life and the community surroundings.
• Are you interested in taking advantage of internship programs?
• Are you a perfect candidate for an opportunity to further study abroad (for instance, since you can speak in foreign languages or you have set your sights on an international career)?
• Do you qualify for the specific undergraduate school research projects (e.g., since you may be interested in pursuing research as a career)?
• Is there something you have a passion for that the college does not offer? You can contribute to starting a club once you join the school.
• What programs do you intend to take part in once you have joined the university, and what uniqueness will you bring on board?
• Create a personal statement as a mini version that you never got a chance to write. Take advantage of the college essay as a way to showcase your passions, talents, and skills that may not appear in a college essay.

Essay Topics for the College which is Not the First Choice

• Focus on the impact the course will have on your career life. Do you see yourself succeeding, helping others, or changing some existing systems?
• Discuss how the school connects with you in terms of its values philosophically, environmentally, socially, or academically.
• Discover one or two features that excite you about the schools you have on the list. If you can’t find reasons to entice you enough to join the school, maybe the school will not fit you.

College Essay Topics to Avoid

• Avoid writing about the school’s general and apparent characteristics, such as location and weather.
• Please do not discuss the sports team you wish to join because it has been overused, and it is not reason enough to want to join the school.
• Avoid copying descriptions from the school website. The admissions officer is not keen on praise but rather on how connected you are with the school.
• Don’t use the school ranking as the reason you would want to go to the school. Give your reasons why you prefer the school over another.
• If you intend to write about your major, explain why that school is your choice for studying that particular course. Do not limit yourself to what you intend to learn and your reasons.
• Don’t be poetic about how pretty you found the campus community to be. Discuss what the school offers differently from other schools.

Step Three: Succeed in the Execution

Once you have come up with your ideas and put them together to respond to the “why us” question, create a memorable essay. Here are top tips on how to achieve that:

• Go straight to the point. This type of college essay is short and thus does not need an introduction or conclusion. Have the first paragraph discuss maybe one or two reasons for making the application. In the second paragraph, in minor detail, discuss reasons two or three to five.
• Be true to yourself and write in your voice. Ensure sincerity in what you are stating. Believe it or not, the reader can tell when you are honest or not.
• Make the school admission officers understand that you have done your research well. Indicate the unique details you have discovered about the school.
• If you have an open plan of attending the school once admitted, make sure you indicate it. Colleges bother about the acceptance numbers, and it helps when they know you are willing to join the school.
• Avoid copy-pasting the same essay for many schools. Personalize each essay to fit the perfect description of each school.

An Outstanding Example of “Why This College” Essay

Here is a “Why Tufts” Essay to help you see how you can come up with an answer to this question:

So, why is this essay so effective? Here are the main reasons:

• Interaction with on-session students. The applicant discusses his interaction with the team and is intrigued to meet them.
• He talks about his conversation with the guys at the cross country to show how he is a good fit at Tufts.
• He uses the conversation to depict that he appreciates the opportunities offered by Tufts (the discussion about movement patterns, Asian Geography, and other activities they got involved in at the campus).
• He lists the things that are of specific value to him. The student has a particular interest in entrepreneurship; hence, the Entrepreneurship Society and the Entrepreneurship Leadership courses interest him.
• He is aware of the school’s events. He shows his knowledge by mentioning the new program in Computer Science.

Do’s and Don’ts: When Responding to the “Why This College” Essay

There is no right or wrong way of responding to this essay. Your choice in approaching the prompt may be more artistic, creative, analytical, or mathematical.

It only matters most that you answer this question in a manner that best describes who you are.

You will also need to explain what you aim at achieving from the school and what you will have to offer the school.

Consider the criteria below in articulating your response and make an effort to avoid the common mistakes and pitfalls:

• Mention Specifics

If the school uses a program/course/major that intrigues you, discuss it! This will show that you’ve done considerable research and can relate your interest rate to what the school has to offer.

Make sure to note what makes this institution’s offering distinct from various other institutions.

If you might alter the university’s name in your reaction to one more university and your response still works, you are not specifying enough.

In addition, having the ability to discuss particular buildings/resources/opportunities around campus.  It could probably be a teacher you would love to meet who will undoubtedly make your essay stand out.

Use the school’s sites and academic department web pages to explore what programs, as well as tutors, pique your rate of interest.

And also, if you’re unable to make a school visit, consider a virtual excursion. You can access virtual scenic tours straight on Youvisit.com.

This site has accessibility to over 1,000 colleges and university campuses. If a college you’re searching for isn’t on the website, you can constantly look on the institution’s website for digital excursions.

• Connect back to yourself

When providing specifics concerning an institution, ensure it is clear why you value that the college has a specific possibility, worth, or characteristic.

It is inadequate to mention the distinct high qualities of a school. You need to certify why such points are essential based on your particular rate of interest. Mention also previous experiences, as well as future ambitions.

• Clarify just how you’ll contribute to the school

Colleges are looking for trainees that can make influence their campus as well as its surrounding neighbourhood.

Research study their clubs, organizations, and exactly how you can make a difference by being a part of areas and teams on and off-campus.

• Demonstrate fit in both dimensions

Talk about how you are an excellent suitable for the institution. It would be best to discuss what you like about the school, yet what the school will undoubtedly value about you as a trainee there.

• Speak about the school’s culture

If any of the college’s values straighten with your very own, the institution will want to know. Colleges might have a backing for social justice and also advocacy.

For instance, Brown College has an abundant history of many students taking part in on-campus picketing to promote university-level adjustments. They also take part in off-campus protests to promote modification at the state and national levels.

Other institutions are devoted to offering their neighbourhoods. Georgetown University, as an example, offers perfect of service to others. It has more than 100 university-sponsored solution opportunities functioning within the D.C. area and beyond.

• Mention the college’s eminence, size, track record, or location

The school doesn’t wish to listen to that they are highly competitive or popular. They know this.

The college additionally doesn’t intend to hear arbitrary truths regarding its background, geographic positioning, or demographics.

If you do point out any of these things, there needs to be an individual and a crucial reason.

For instance, you might point out the place if you have grown up in the location and wish to cultivate collaborations between the college and neighbourhood organizations you presently deal with.

• Misstate individuals, locations, or points unique to the college

When making factual declarations regarding a college, do not puzzle their course titles, faculty, mascot, or facilities on school, keeping that of another institution. Fact-check everything.

• Make use of psychological language to justify fit

You will not encourage an admissions officer that you are an excellent fit for their school by telling them that you “feel” like you are or that you can inform them the first moment you stepped into school.

Give them concrete reasons that their school is an excellent fit.

• Recycle language from the website

Use your very own words to make your points. Do not duplicate language from the website, article, sales brochures, or anywhere else.

• State the apparent

When describing the reasons a school is excellently suitable for you, you might think that the admissions officer knows the general background, offerings, and customs of the institution.

You do not, for instance, need to discuss with UChicago what Scav Search is. You could, nevertheless, describe why you appreciate the ethos of the custom or why you want it to be part of your college experience.

Writing the “Why This College” Essays When Not Decided on the Course

I have some excellent news for you: you can still craft a good “Why This College” essay when clueless about your career path.

Here are some top tips on how to go about it:

• You can include a thesis that indicates two or three areas of interest, or it can state that you are not sure what you’d like to study. In the thesis, show what you want, and the school’s name (E.g., “I’m interested in A, B, and C, and I am certain that the best place to discover these interests is The University of Michigan.”)
• Start your essay with an excellent hook to showcase your creative ability and as a distraction because you are unsure of your intended course of study (which is fine).

Here’s a suitable example to illustrate the above:

Here’s how to explain the points stated above:

Dear 2017 Grande,

It’s the year 2027. I have arrived at the G20 summit after presenting an annual report on population stability and the demographic transition.

All through your eighteen years of life, you have been bombarded with plenty of choices: Is the answer A or B? What airline seat to pick? Is the attire black/white or gold/white? Either way, you will have to decide what allows you to harness and apply your knowledge in reality—the choice to join Johns Hopkins University.

Up to now, you have lived in the USA, India, and U.K.: a multicultural exposure that changed your view of the world. You are not sure what you want, but you strive to synchronize fields and ideas in your heart. You will discover all that at John Hopkins.

Precisely, the Hopkins Center of Humanities will present you with a more flexible approach to interdisciplinary studies: which is crucial because you value the need for exploring before making your decision.

You can find this at Homewood and globally through studying at the Sciences Po Campus in Paris. It outlines the interconnection between areas like finance, urban policy, and law.

In the United Nations Model, you advance skills in collaboration and reaching consensus and pluralism through working with many students from all over the country. At John Hopkins, your knowledge and skills on international relations in Professors Hanchards’s and Moss’s lecture, Nation, Race, Politics, and diaspora, will be enhanced.

You will get great insights into how history determines the understanding of today’s geopolitical challenges, from the human rights and political sociology discussions to the fall of late 19 th century empires.

In as much as you stuck your nose into the waters of politics and governments while taking part in your internship program at Senator Brown’s office, Hopkins will provide you with a deep dive into your field through their program on international studies. There are also more opportunities at the Nitze School in Washington D.C. and Nanjing Center, China.

Locally, you can extend your service politically by running for the Hopkins Student Government Association. Here, you will continue to provide a forum for discussion and recognition and represent diverse points of view.

You also have the opportunity to keep working with the Red Cross and joining the Chesapeake Regional Chapters and the JHU to give back to the Baltimore Community. You will get access to speakers like Dr. Benjamin Richard, the Red Cross Chief Medical Officer, and Dr. Olsen Jody, the Marine Peace Corps Former Director, once you join the Public Health Student Forum.

From understanding behaviour in making decisions to building community, all your life’s experiences have emerged from One. Single. Choice. Without JHU, you wouldn’t be the expert in global policy change, taking part in events like the G20 Summit.

I acknowledge that the world has dramatically changed in the last ten years. But John Hopkins believes in this fluidity, and with you, Grande will steer the importance of integrated studies.

Future Grande

You may also want best scholarship essay format

Is Your Essay Strong Enough?

Essays account for around 25% of your admissions choice. They’re your chance to humanize your college application process as well as set yourself aside from other applicants with solid profiles.

The “Why This College” essay is critical, as it allows you to reflect on your fit with the college. Your supplement requires demonstrating your rate of interest in the college and suggesting just how you’ll contribute both academically and socially.

To recognize if your essay is solid enough, you can enhance your very own writing abilities by assessing various other students’ essays.

You may also want to check ACT writing prompts !

Conclusion – Write a Great “Why this College” Essay

The “Why This College” essay technically shows three attributes:

• Proof that you have an understanding of what makes the school unique and different
• Evidence that you are the perfect fit for the target school
• Evidence that the target school will, in turn, be the perfect fit for you

The prompt will appear in two ways: “Why you?” or “Why us?” You can address the queries regardless of the style used.

Writing the essay will require you to perform proper research on the specific characteristics and unique qualities of the given school which please you.

You will find such information by doing the following:

• Visiting the campus virtually or in person and interacting with the faculty and a current student on the session.
• Posing questions to the representatives at college fairs or your college interviewer.
• Reading the school’s published material such as the school website, brochures, school campus newspaper, social media, and alumni magazines.
• Checking other websites which discuss the college

To discover the appropriate topic for your essay, find up to five things that resonate with you about the college. Link each of them with yourself, your strengths, goals, and intellectual and academic interests.

Do not use clichés that would be relevant to any college, such as sports teams, weather, geography, or architecture.

Focus instead on the details that will make your target college different from all the other colleges.

Thank you for reaching this far. In case you’re still in doubt, click the green button below, follow the simple steps, and leave the hurdle of writing that essay to our top tutors!

Similar Posts

How to Write 1000-word Essays- With Examples

Essay writing is an exercise that every student has to undertake at some point in their school days. A regular academic paper is anywhere between 500 to 2500 words. A thousand words may seem like a small number for an essay. However, it requires extensive research on the subject matter and a coherent flow of…

Attention Getters for Speech that Actually Work

Attention getters are used in speeches to capture the attention of the audience and keep them engaged throughout. The best ones are often quick, memorable, and presented with enthusiasm. Attention getters can be anything from a startling statement or joke to something as simple as an action that gets people on their feet. The most important thing is that they work…

Top 100 Cause and Effect Essay Topics

Cause and effect essays can be a little tricky, but they’re not impossible to write. The trick is finding a topic that’s interesting to you as well as relevant enough to write about. One of the best ways to do this is to find topics that you’re interested in but aren’t necessarily common knowledge –…

The Best Music Essay Topics

The music industry is a lucrative business that has been on the rise for quite some time now. Currently, there are a lot of music sales globally, and the industry in itself is an important factor in the economy of several countries. Students doing Music Education are expected to participate in academic writing to culminate…

Top 4 Profile Essay Examples

A “profile essay” is a reflective essay that provides insights about a person, a place, or an event. It is a descriptive piece that can be used to answer questions like “Who am I?” or “What is the purpose of education?” Some students find it challenging to write profile essays, but with some practice and…

Classification Essays Topics

College students will be required to complete several various types of essays throughout their academic careers. Essay writing can be challenging for students who are just learning how to write. However, with the right tools and knowledge, any student can develop good essay writing skills. A classification essay is one of the many academic papers…

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

UChicago Essay Examples (And Why They Worked)

The following essay examples were written by several different authors who were admitted to University of Chicago and are intended to provide examples of successful UChicago application essays. All names have been redacted for anonymity. Please note that CollegeAdvisor.com has shared these essays with admissions officers at University of Chicago in order to deter potential plagiarism.

For more help with your UChicago supplemental essays, check out our UChicago Essay Guide ! For more guidance on personal essays and the college application process in general, sign up for a monthly plan to work with an admissions coach 1-on-1.

Question 1 (Required; Choose one) How does the University of Chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future? Please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to UChicago.

When I visited UChicago, a friend invited me to step into her Comparative Literature class: Monstrosity and the Monstrous. Desperate for refuge from the cold (as a Bay Area resident, I hadn’t packed for the Chicago winter), I quickly obliged. I expected to silently observe, but when I mentioned that I’d read Antigone , her professor was thrilled–he immediately invited me into the discussion. For an hour and a half, we weighed the pros and cons of civil disobedience: did Antigone’s actions permanently destabilize Thebes, and in the modern day, when does protesting against a government cross the line? Was Antigone justified in interpreting the will of the gods? And, if so, would Sophocles support pardoning well-intentioned criminals? Beyond the enthralling analysis of the play, I was captivated by the spirit of UChicago: a campus that invites everyone (including a loitering high school student) to contribute and develop their ideas.

Now, it’s surreal to imagine taking “The Economics of Crime” from someone as renowned as Professor Levitt (I’ve been a fan since reading Freakonomics ) and staying after class to clarify the finer points of the latest Freakonomics podcast (I particularly enjoyed “Speak Softly and Carry Big Data,” on using data analysis to perfect foreign policy decisions). I hope to add to UChicago’s legacy of pushing the boundaries of our economic understanding by participating in undergraduate research, and perhaps put my findings to use through crafting social policy for the Harris School’s Public Policy Practicum. Prior to graduating, I’ll sample tastes of future careers through the Fried Public Policy and Service Program or the Trott Business Program. Simultaneously, as someone who enjoys conversing and respectfully challenging ideas, I look forward to immersing myself in the Core Curriculum and obtaining a strong foundation of knowledge. Above all, I appreciate that UChicago teaches students how to think, encourages dialogue, and prompts students to question norms.

Beyond an unparalleled education, UChicago boasts an incredible student body. Whether it’s over $1 milkshakes, at a desk beneath the stunning glass dome of the Mansueto library, or over a game of pick-up basketball, students at UChicago have a reputation for cultivating the most interesting conversations, both miscellaneous and profound. I hope that culture will only intensify within groups like the student government, Muslim Student Association, or the (undefeated) Model United Nations team. Though I look forward to Scav, the prospect of another scavenger hunt is even more enticing; over the next four years, my peers and I will discover the impact we intend to have on the world. Whether I end up delving into politics, finance, or the nonprofit sector, I know UChicago will guide me through that process–more importantly, as a member of a campus of visionaries, I hope to learn how I’ll change any field I enter. I look forward to four life-changing years–this time, with a warm winter coat.

Why this UChicago essay worked, from an ex-admissions officer

The author of this essay did a great job highlighting their familiarity with the faculty’s research and the university’s traditions. In doing so, admissions officers know that this student conducted the necessary research and is not solely interested in the university based on its rankings and reputation but rather the intangibles- the things that set UChicago apart, from other colleges/universities.

A few days ago, I had the pleasure of visiting UChicago’s campus. What I found was exactly what I’d hoped for: an absurdly specific and drawn-out debate over which poem was better, The Iliad, or The Odyssey.

It happened in a dorm. After my official tour, a good friend of mine, Lizzie, who I’d met two summers ago on a writer’s retreat offered to show me around campus. The insider tour: coveted by many, enjoyed by few. As we were leaving the common space on her floor in Max P., we were discussing our respective class schedules. We came to find that we were doing similar coursework with regard to Classical studies, and with a simple groan at my mention of the adventures of Achilles in Ilion, the battle began.

Quickly, I found myself drawing my spear—the initial jab: “The portrayal of Odysseus in The Odyssey is lackluster and inconsistent with prior descriptions at best.”

She dodged, “Maybe, but The Iliad is just a bunch of gore. I want a real story.” The phalanxes were starting to form; war cries echoing, bouncing off doors which held the empty beds of students wintering at Mansueto, I stopped.

“Listen,” I said, with a ring reminiscent of a sword being gloriously drawn from its sheath. “Homer may not have even been the mind behind much of The Odyssey . On top of that, how do you reconcile Odysseus’ supposed military genius spanning ten years with his seemingly cavalier attitude towards his men’s safety on the voyage home?” In turn, she threw her arms up with a sigh of exasperation—a shield, a deflection.

“Maybe, but Achilles’ melodramatic fits aren’t worth reading. If I wanted to witness overwrought pouting, I’d go find a four-year-old. Besides, an inconsistency doesn’t damn a story to the pits of inadequacy.”

Round and round we went, like Achilles and Hector around the city of Ilion, neither of us gaining an inch, and neither of us drawing nearer escape. But then, for us, escape wasn’t the point, was it? It was the chase. The Iliad would have been far less exciting had Achilles settled for glory, fought for Agamemnon, and killed Hector immediately. Likewise, The Odyssey is nothing but a story of a journey, and therefore wouldn’t have a leg to stand on without the chase. From my point of view, this is what UChicago is all about—the chase; the journey—the questions asked and examined, not only those answered. Lizzie and I never came to a conclusion about which poem is better (thankfully we could agree that The Aeneid was objectively well written, and well told), but we had a riveting, impassioned conversation on a dime. My favorite part of this? It happened on the way to her Physics discussion.

That’s why I love UChicago; this is what I crave. The perpetual hall pass to unapologetically geek out with fellow cats whom curiosity didn’t kill, but strengthened. To walk by the chapel, and hear the bells playing Kiss the Girl, to sit in the Reading Room and write, to marvel at the marketing genius behind the naming of Grounds of Being ; to have conversations with poetry nerds, language lovers, people who can rant about the beauty of the C7 chord or the curvature of a parabolic function. I can only see myself in a place that emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, that offers a slew of majors, minors, and career courses—that not just allows, but encourages exploration—that finds its students discussing Homer on the way to a physics class. I would not be able to function without the camaraderie that comes with the $1 shake, or the friendships born of mutual vitriol at the notion of their disappearance. This community is not tied, but melded together—one that challenges, one that nips stagnancy in the bud. So, paint me maroon and point me towards Axelrod; I’m ready to join this Odyssey-loving, manhole-cover-thieving, Royal Tenenbaum-esque family.

In this essay, the writer connected her seemingly random conversation with a friend to the interdisciplinary focus of the university and the ways in which, others challenge her views. Oftentimes, when we think of a college education- there is so much focus on the rankings, reputation, and major, career opportunities, return on investments, and salary– all of which, are very important; however, one could argue that that true purpose of college is to challenge yourself, to step outside of your comfort zone, meet new people and challenge others as well. This writer understands those values are paramount to an education at UChicago. The admissions officer reading this essay, knows this student will thrive at UChicago, but most importantly, this student will leave UChicago in a better place than where they found it by challenging those around them.

Question 2: Extended Essay (Required; Choose one)

Editor’s Note: The UChicago supplemental essays change each year, as the University is known to reach out to newly admitted and current students for essay prompts. These are examples of previous successful approaches to essay prompts.

2017-2018 UChicago Essay Prompt

What’s your armor.

I won’t knock on wood for luck if the wood isn’t demonstrably pure as the waters of the Piscine Molitor. When I say I won’t, I don’t mean that I will knock on a table, or a bench occasionally through gritted teeth if I’m in dire need of cosmic intervention, no, I mean I will not, under any circumstance, on a train, a plane, or even in Spain, knock on anything other than natural, uncoated in any way, wood. I recognize the scientific irrationality, not just of superstitions, but of being picking nits within a particular superstition. I have my reasons.

Two years ago, while scrolling through my Instagram feed, I stumbled across a disconcerting “fact” that probably wasn’t a fact . The post asserted that more than ninety-percent of all wooden tables, benches, chairs, etc are not, in fact, strictly wooden. Rather, they are a mix of synthetic materials and wood. Granted, in most cases, the synthetic is likely just a coat of protective varnish, but you see, that tarnishes the product for the superstitious. It was a moment of earth-shattering ramifications. In a matter of three seconds, I questioned every bit of trust I’d ever placed in the universe. It all seemed futile, meaningless. Now, I’m not knocking on wood, I’m knocking on wood that has been coated once, twice, ninety-six times with preservative varnish. At that point, it’s just a synthetic graveyard with a foundation of wood. There is no luck to be found in an ungodly cemetery of bones like that. I might as well knock on glass, or grass, or a plastic container. It surpasses trivial in the scheme of things, but imagine I were to have something especially important looming, something that has the potential to frame the context of the rest of my life, something like college applications. Why would I take a chance on something that merely resembles pure wood for luck? I wouldn’t. I’d run straight outside, find the nearest tree (the only real guarantee), and knock until my knuckles resembled shredded calf-liver. It’s really not worth the risk.

Why does it even matter, though? Who, and/or what enforces frivolous matters like outdated pseudo-religious compulsions? I like to imagine that there is a being in charge of each superstition, both the common and obscure. The Being of Repetition would oversee all attempts to cheat one’s destiny by uttering a word thirty-seven times, the Being of Self-Induced Discomfort would superintend those who hold their breath while they cross bridges or drive past cemeteries, and the Being of Sylvan Knocks would assure that not a single soul who bops their knuckles on a tarnished, synthetic-wood abomination receives their prize of favor. This being watches and keeps tabs on those foolish enough to put their faith in the preternatural equivalent of fool’s gold, and shames them by leaving their worlds deservedly unaltered. However, those who are devoted enough to search out the nearest tree and give it a few raps for good measure, will find magnificent rewards from their generous karmic sugar daddy. Call me a purist, call me ridiculous, but I’m convinced that this is the indisputable truth.

So convinced, in fact, that those closest to me have picked up on my idiosyncratic neurosis. I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy the friendship of observant souls, one of whom, named Jack, happens to be a skilled woodworker. Upon confessing to him my cognitive dissonance of being vehemently non-superstitious, while also controlled like a marionette by this irrational belief, he took it upon himself to, at the very least, ease the inconvenience of finding a tree in my panic. He gave me a teardrop-shaped, knuckle-sized piece of pure wood. Not just that, but he put a small hole in it so that it would fit on my keychain. I carry it everywhere. I give it a little knock every now and then just for the extra luck. Knowing that no matter the place, no matter the scenario, I’m always in the good graces of the Being of Sylvan Knocks means that I never again have to add “find a tree” to my mental to-do list. It means release—means freedom.

Maybe one day I’ll get over my manneristic malady, but until that day comes, I’ll keep carrying my teardrop everywhere I go, and hope that Jack never tells me that my charm is anything less than Piscine pure, unadulterated luck. Knock on wood, right?

2013-2014 UChicago Essay Prompt:

The mantis shrimp can perceive both polarized light and multispectral images; they have the most complex eyes in the animal kingdom. human eyes have color receptors for three colors (red, green, and blue); the mantis shrimp has receptors for sixteen types of color, enabling them to see a spectrum far beyond the capacity of the human brain. seriously, how cool is the mantis shrimp:  mantisshrimp.uchicago.edu . what might they be able to see that we cannot what are we missing.

The red and purple hues of the sunset warm the chilly summer evening; the soft pastels blend perfectly under my fingers to emanate the photograph; each Van Gogh and Renoir mesmerize me as I creep through the brightly lit museum. Photographs and paintings capture the beauty that we see with our eyes. Our almighty sense of sight allows us to be immersed by the extraordinary, but at the same time, it hinders us.

Although breath-taking to witness, the mantis shrimp, majestic as a unicorn or narwhal from the outside, relates more closely to a soul-sucking dementor. Its mighty claws enable it to chomp nearby prey instantaneously. Is it possible that the violent behavior of a mantis shrimp is related in someway to its heightened abilities of sight?

Segregation, discrimination, isolation; so many “tion”s can be attributed to our sense of vision. In elementary school, the concept of being popular is already engrained in our minds. As a first grader, I got my first glimpse of this when a girl was forced to tell her best friend that they couldn’t hang out anymore because she “wasn’t cool enough.” And what deems someone to be popular? Of course, attitude and self-confidence are key, but popularity is equally derived from having the newest backpack and sparkly shoes that light up with each step. In the 1940s, having “the look” meant blonde hair and blue eyes with the emanating threat of concentration camps and execution. America, the land of the free, cannot forget its very own history of segregation that nearly split the nation in two. People were belittled and harassed due to the color of their skin. Throughout history, mankind has associated superiority with skin color and race. Our sense of sight has limited us oftentimes to fixate on seeing instead of understanding.

The kaleidoscopic exoskeleton of the mantis shrimp indicates its very own evolutionary emphasis on beauty. Why else would one attempt to look so radiant if not to mate and produce heirs? I would probably be pretty picky too if I had such a powerful pair of eyes—fixating on each segment, each tentacle, each antenna. Over the centuries, the selectivity of the mantis shrimp possibly eliminated less attractive members from the gene pool. It never thought “Oh well, maybe she has a nice personality and a good sense of humor.” In a world of plastic Barbie dolls and glossy magazine covers, I would hate to see an even greater emphasis on aesthetics.

As a child, I read A Wrinkle in Time and journeyed to the planet Ixchel where Madeline L’Engle’s fictional character Meg tries to explain the concept of seeing to a creature with no eyes. In response the beast states, “We do not know what things look like, as you say… We know what things are like. It must be a very limiting thing, this seeing.” As a child, I pondered the difficultly of explaining sight to someone incapable of it and all the words that a person wouldn’t understand—light, dark, colors, shades. When I initially read this prompt about the mantis shrimp, I was reminded of this passage. The difficulty of imagining all that the mantis shrimp can see is possibly just as difficult as it is for someone who is blind to imagine the red of a robin’s belly, the illustrious light blue sky, or the shades of skin tones. I was originally perplexed by the idea that seeing can be “a very limiting thing.” Over half a decade later, as I reread Madeline L’Engle’s words, I find the truth in this phrase. We do not need sight. It is convenient being able to color coordinate files and match shoes with shirts, but the ability to see can often overpower our other senses. We judge and make first impressions by the way a person dresses, often neglecting what that person says or thinks or knows.

Perhaps the mantis shrimp’s eyes allow it to see further than our color spectrum, into infrared, ultraviolet, or radio waves. Maybe this allows it to see its predators inching closer before they devise an attack. The shrimp’s vision could possibly replace its sense of feeling and hearing—observing sound waves in the wavy, salty sea or having thermal imaging abilities. However, the extent to its abilities is far greater than we can perceive. It would be impossible to imagine the full capabilities of the mantis shrimp without having a “Freaky Friday” moment and switching brains. As humans, we have become too accustomed to our perception of superiority that it is difficult to imagine abilities greater than our own. What we lack, we attempt to compensate for with technology and scientific advancements. We have escaped the mentality of our cavemen and cavewomen ancestors—scavenging for food and hiding from predators. Machine guns and others weapons of mass destruction have given humans the mindset that we are on the top of the food chain.

The short novel Flatland by Edwin A. Abbott was enforced upon my Geometry class over spring break. Although initially a lesson about the multiple dimensions, Flatland also explores the challenge of explaining higher realms to those who cannot experience it. The king of Pointland is so narrow-minded and insular that he refuses to believe that there are objects larger than he is. When confronted with a square, all he sees is another point. As humans, our abilities are limited as well. We do not have the innate skills of the mantis shrimp with its sixteen receptors; however, centuries of innovation have made us inept to fully perceive the skills we are incapable of.

The mantis shrimp can see a greater spectrum of rays and waves and possibly some great unknown, but perhaps, it is better that its abilities remain a mystery. At this time, we are probably not ready for such visual capabilities; our current ones have already proven to be overbearing. Maybe the best things in life are not meant to be seen because they must be felt or understood.

These UChicago essay examples were compiled by the advising team at CollegeAdvisor.com . If you want to get help writing your UChicago application essays from CollegeAdvisor.com Admissions Experts , register with CollegeAdvisor.com today.

Personalized and effective college advising for high school students.

• Advisor Application
• Popular Colleges
• Privacy Policy and Cookie Notice
• Student Login
• California Privacy Notice
• Terms and Conditions
• Your Privacy Choices

By using the College Advisor site and/or working with College Advisor, you agree to our updated Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy , including an arbitration clause that covers any disputes relating to our policies and your use of our products and services.

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

How to Write the Emory University Essays 2023-2024

Emory University has two required essay prompts for applicants, one of which is the same question for all applicants with the other having six different options for applicants to choose from. The prompts are relatively short, clocking in at 200 words and 150 words, respectively, which means every word counts towards making your application stand out.

Read these Emory essay examples to inspire your writing.

Emory University Supplemental Essay Prompts

Prompt 1: What academic areas are you interested in exploring at Emory University and why? (200 words)

Prompt 2:  Please answer one of the following questions: (150 words)

• Option A: Which book, character, song, monologue, or other creative work (fiction or non-fiction) seems made for you? Why?
• Option B: Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness.
• Option C: Emory University aspires for all students to flourish on campus. Reflect on what flourishing at Emory means to you.
• Option D: Emory University’s core mission calls for service to humanity. Share how you might personally contribute to this mission.
• Option E: 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.
• Option F: Reflection is a central tenet of Emory University’s values. Craft a personal email giving advice to yourself in your first year of high school.

Before You Begin

As Emory’s website states in regard to these essays, “ We encourage you to be thoughtful and not stress about what the right answer might be. We simply want to get to know you better.” This space is an opportunity for you to present yourself as a complex and unique human being.

Remember that before reading your essays and recommendations, your admissions officers will only have seen data points and test scores that describe you. While these numbers are important, you are so much more than a test score . Admission officers want to sympathize with you. They want to root for. They want you to give them a reason to admit you. And this is such a great place for you to give them one! Don’t be afraid to be your true, gloriously weird self.

It’s worth noting that the word limit for these essays is only 150 words. That’s not a lot of space, so the name of the game is brevity . This is not the place for purple prose or modifiers — instead of very hungry, try famished. Consider using sprinted instead of ran as fast as possible. It may seem like a small change, but every word is important here. We recommend that you try to get as close to the 150 word count as possible, and stay within 10-15 words of the limit. 

What academic areas are you interested in exploring in college? (200 words)

This is a very straightforward “ Why This Major? ” prompt that should follow the typical structure for an essay of this archetype. A good response needs to do three things: (1) show your interest in the major through an experience, (2) explain how the major will help you achieve your goals, and (3) demonstrate what resources at the school will help you achieve your goals.

1. Show your interest in the major

You want to start your essay by showing admissions officers your excitement and engagement in the major you have chosen. What positive (or even negative) experiences have you had with this subject that have influenced you? 

A student interested in Creative Writing might talk about how she sees characters in people walking down the street, mythical lands in the places she’s traveled, and new stories that must be told whenever she listens to conversations around her. 

A student interested in Nutrition Science could describe how understanding the science behind the food he ate through independent research helped him turn around his life and lose weight. The easiest way to convey your interest is to use a strong, detailed, and meaningful anecdote.

2. Explain how this major will help you

What do you want to be when you grow up? It’s okay to not know exactly what you want, but you should have a pretty decent idea of what field you are interested in or what type of work you see yourself enjoying. 

If you know that you want to generate cleaner forms of energy to solve the climate crisis, you would mention how majoring in Environmental Sciences will teach you not only the ecological origins of issues facing the world, but how to think creatively to develop feasible solutions. 

Maybe you’re not sure what you want to do, but you are deeply concerned by racial injustice. You could describe how the African American Studies major will allow you to learn about the history of oppression in this country, so you can gain a better understanding of where you could devote your time to do the most good one day. For this section, it’s important you establish a link between your current interests and your future.

3. Demonstrate how Emory can help you

This final step shows the admissions officers that you are genuinely interested in their school and took the time to do outside research. You will want to include resources (classes, professors, research opportunities, study abroad, extracurriculars, etc) that are specific and unique to Emory that you plan to take advantage of while on campus. Just casually mentioning three different resources you will use doesn’t add anything to your essay. You need to connect these resources to your future goals by elaborating on how they will help you. 

For example, a student who is fascinated by the economic causes of war could say they want to work with Professor Caroline Fohlin on her research of pre-war Germany to learn how the economy can predict conflicts. 

Another student who wants to apply AI to smart homes one day would write about their excitement to take the Artificial Intelligence class at Emory since it is solely dedicated to a topic they are interested in. Remember, what you choose to highlight should align with your reasons for applying to this major in the first place.

You can think of the entire essay like a bridge. On one side you have your past experiences and passion for a topic. On the other side, your future career goals and aspirations await you. The only way to get to the other side is by studying your intended major at Emory and utilizing the resources available to you, or crossing the bridge.

Prompt 2, Option A

Which book, character, song, monologue, or piece of work (fiction or non-fiction)  seems made for you why (150 words).

This is a great prompt for people who have a piece of media that they feel really strongly about—and let’s face it, most of us are at least a little obsessed with some kind of media. Think about a piece of media that you feel like you can identify with on a deep, personal level. You should then go a step further and think about why you identify so strongly with that person or thing. What does it say about you? 

Once you have your what (or who) and your why , search for an anecdote that explains your personal connection to this piece of media. For example, maybe you really identify with Katniss Everdeen (your who ) because you’re super protective of your little sister (your why ), so then you can tell the story about that time that you drove 45 minutes late at night to pick your sister up because she was uncomfortable at a party. The more specific the anecdote, the more the admissions officers will get to know you (“Wow what a responsible and selfless sibling this applicant is!”). 

A really easy trap to fall into with a prompt like this is to give the answer that you think admissions officers are looking for. Like maybe you think the admissions officers are looking for you to say that you just love studying so much , so you choose Hermione Granger even though you don’t even like Harry Potter. As in life, you should always be true to yourself in your essays because a) you’re amazing as you are, so you should let people get to know the real you and b) admissions officers will be able to identify essays that are not authentic, so writing a disingenuous response will only reflect poorly on you.

Prompt 2, Option B

Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness. (150 words).

This prompt is ideal for those who have prioritize cultural sensitivity and/or have engaged with people from diverse backgrounds, as you are being asked to think about a time when you intentionally expanded your horizons, and how that deliberate action catalyzed your growth.

So, think of a time when you consciously made the decision to expand your cultural awareness. For example, perhaps your lab partner was a foreign exchange student whose first language was not English, and rather than simply getting through the term as best you could, you used it as an opportunity to recognize your privilege as a native English speaker, and appreciate the culture of a non-English speaking country.

Do be careful that you don’t come across as self-absorbed by suggesting this experience taught you everything there is to know about cultural awareness. Admissions officers aren’t expecting that, and if anything taking that stance could make you come across as naive to the world’s complexity. Instead, acknowledge that you will never know everything there is to know about other cultures, but you are committed to continually growing and learning, as that openness is what colleges do value.

Along those same lines, as you brainstorm, keep in mind that college essays, like any other genre of writing, have cliches . Many applicants have had a “voluntourism” experience — that is, a service trip that benefited the student more than the community they were visiting. Not only are voluntourism stories cliche, they can also make you sound privileged and condescending. Every admissions officer has read countless “I was there to teach them, but really they taught me” essays. 

That said, you can still talk about your service trip experience! Just try to put a unique spin on it, by focusing on a personal anecdote that only happened to you. The more specific, the better. Acknowledge your privilege and explain how you grew from it, and make sure your reader comes away actually knowing something substantive about your personality, not just that you once spent a month in Thailand.

Finally, with a prompt like this, it’s easy to accidentally spend too much of the essay talking about someone else (such as your lab partner). But remember that you only have 150 words, and ultimately you’re the one applying to Emory, so you should be the protagonist of this story. If you’re wondering if you’ve fallen into the trap of spending too much time describing someone else, look at your verbs. You should be the subject of most of those verbs, because you are the star of the story.

For example, you might consider changing “My lab partner taught me about her culture and allowed me to grow” to “By engaging in vulnerable conversations about the challenges of communicating in a new setting, I became more empathetic to the challenges non-native English speakers face every day in the United States.”

Prompt 2, Option C

Emory university aspires for all students to flourish on campus. reflect on what flourishing at emory means to you. (150 words).

This is a variation on a typical “ Why This College? ” essay, but rather than simply asking you why you want to attend Emory, the prompt instead asks what it means to “flourish” at Emory – essentially, what it means to be an Emory student. As such, this is a great prompt to answer for students with an unusually special connection to or interest in Emory, particularly those who want to showcase that Emory is one of their top choices without necessarily applying Early Decision.

This question requires both self-reflection, like any college essay, and a bit of research. Start with the self-reflection, by asking yourself what you hope to gain from your college experience. This can be at Emory specifically, or just at college in general. Are you hoping to find your passion? Do you already know what you want to do and want to connect with professors and mentors in your field of interest? Do you hope to get involved in tons of student organizations and extracurriculars on campus? Or start your own? Really imagine your dream life at college, and think about what makes you most excited to start your journey in higher education.

Once you feel like you have a grasp on why you want to attend college in general, it’s time to narrow your focus to Emory in particular. Browse the school’s website, to find different resources Emory has to help you reach your goals. For example, if you’re interested in studying film, you could write about the “Emory Cinematheque”, a series of professional film screenings open to all Emory students that features various directors, genres, and eras of film. 

To avoid simply name-dropping something that sounds cool, make sure you expand on exactly how a particular resource would help you reach your goals. In this example, you could write about how the Emory Cinematheque and related opportunities would help you synthesize your class material in new and exciting ways, and give you insight into films and media that you previously haven’t encountered.

The last and most important thing to keep in mind when answering this prompt is that you must address the word “flourishing”. Reflect on what that word means to you, and make sure to go into some depth–your goal in this essay is to distinguish yourself from other applicants, and just saying you want to get good grades won’t do that. Rather, what particular skills do you hope to gain that you haven’t already learned in high school? What experiences do you hope to have that are going to move you closer to your personal and professional goals? The more specific you can be, the better. To give you an idea of what we’re talking about here, here’s an example of what you could write, based off the example given above:

“ Engaging with resources such as the Emory Cinematheque would give me access to knowledge I wouldn’t otherwise encounter, and connect with people who can offer different perspectives on that knowledge. Flourishing on campus means being unafraid of the unknown, so that I can take full advantage of the innumerable resources available at Emory that will help me become an iconoclastic yet conscientious film director one day.”

Prompt 2, Option D

Emory university’s core mission calls for service to humanity. share how you might personally contribute to this mission. (150 words).

This is a standard “ Community Service ” essay, which asks you to share how you will embody Emory’s commitment to community service and humanitarian efforts. It’s a great option if you have a robust history with community service, or even just one experience that was highly formative.

Brainstorming Your Topic:

Research opportunities for service that already exist at Emory. The school’s website summarizes service opportunities for students, from break trips, to organized volunteer efforts in Atlanta, to service trips abroad. 

You can also think about things you’re personally invested in, even if nothing on Emory’s site quite aligns with it. For example, if you’re passionate about children’s literacy, maybe you want to talk about your goal of organizing a book drive for elementary school students in Atlanta.

Remember you’re not expected to save the world in your response. In fact, the simpler and more feasible your proposed service opportunity is, perhaps the better. Emory admissions wants to hear what you’re genuinely most interested in, and how you will actually make an impact in the Emory community, and writing about something you could realistically accomplish in college will answer those questions better than saying you’d like to wipe out world hunger.

Tips for Writing Your Essay:

Once you have an idea of what you want to write about, it’s time to organize it into a response. The best way to start is by sharing a little bit about yourself and your connection with community service. This can come in the form of a personal anecdote about a time you volunteered, an issue you’ve encountered in your community or elsewhere that has inspired you, or something you’ve found on Emory’s website that resonates with you on a personal level.

After you share your personal connection with service, tie in the initiative you brainstormed, while also explaining the importance of service to your life as a whole. Here’s an example of how to do that:

“I grew up in a town bordering the Ohio River, well-regarded as the most polluted river in America. As such, I’ve been involved with sustainability efforts since I was little. My parents would take me on river sweeps,’ where we’d travel up and down the river, clearing the water of any debris or litter we could find. At first I thought of it as just a family bonding activity, but now I see environmental service as the foundation upon which my future, and the future of the world, depends. At Emory, I will remain committed to building towards a greener future, by rallying my peers for river sweeps at the Chattahoochee, joining Emory’s various sustainability organizations such as AltKEY, and using my electives to take courses in the Environmental Sciences program. I’m ready to make an impact not just on the community where I grew up, but on Atlanta as well, and eventually, communities all across the country.”

Mistakes to Avoid:

One of the biggest mistakes students make in “Community Service” essays is talking about yourself as a savior to an “underprivileged” community or a community “in need”. Doing so paints a self-aggrandizing portrait of your efforts, which can make admissions officers question your motivation for engaging in service work. To avoid this, focus less on the differences, economic or otherwise, between yourself and the community you helped, and more on what you learned from the experience, rather than projecting an exaggerated sense of gratitude onto the recipients of your service work.

Prompt 2, Option E

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. (150 words).

This prompt tasks you with describing a community that has both helped you grow, and given you the opportunity to shape its future. Unlike the previous prompt, this is not a “ Community Service ” essay, as your job is not to talk about how you served a community, but rather how you fit into one.

“Community” can be defined in many different ways. It can be an extracurricular that you’ve been involved with for many years, an aspect of your identity that you feel is important to you, a cultural, religious, or ethnic background you share with others, or something else you’ve sought out as a way to belong. Community is what you define it as, so don’t limit yourself when brainstorming your topic. Instead, think about what you would say to someone who asked you to introduce yourself and explain the kind of things you’re interested in. What comes to mind? What could you not imagine living without? Or, who could you not imagine living without?

You could also approach the prompt by thinking about some of your personal achievements that you’ve been proud of. This is a two-pronged prompt: you’re tasked with describing not just a community you’re a part of, but also your own contributions to that community. If anything, the second piece of the prompt is the more important one, as Emory admissions officers want to know how you’ll contribute to their overall campus community and the smaller communities that exist all across the college. So it’s imperative that whichever community you choose to write about is one that you’ve been actively engaging with for some time.

As such, it’s perhaps better to do away with writing about family or anything else that you don’t plan to take with you to Emory. While sharing that you and your family’s weekly Shabbat dinners have been a stable outlet for you to lean on your family and get in touch with your religion and wider religious community shows a thoughtful, touching sentimentality, it doesn’t actively exemplify how you’ve changed or shaped a community at large. 

That being said, perhaps you’ve invited friends from school to your dinners, or attended some of theirs. You could write about how what started as a family tradition eventually led you into a much broader community, and how you hope to attend Shabbat at Emory Hillel to broaden your Jewish community even further.

As with many other prompts, starting with an anecdote is a surefire way to quickly engage the reader and put them into your shoes. You can write about the time you found or joined the community, a time you felt most proud of your community, or a time you felt most indebted to or grateful for your community. Whatever you choose to do, remember details – what did you see, feel, taste, smell, and so on and so forth.

“ Standing on stage, with our foreheads sweating under the bright spotlights, I looked around at my castmates and felt I was home.”

Without having to say it explicitly, it’s obvious that the student’s chosen community is a theater group, and that the community gives the student a sense of great pride and comfort. Now it’s time to dive into greater detail about the significance of this community.

“But it’s hard not to think about how recently I was a freshman in the ensemble, feeling in over my head, not knowing a single soul, but feeling they were all more talented than me. But the seniors, who were all cast as leads, made it a point to make me and the other freshman feel not just included, but like an essential part of the machine.”

Here, the student starts to explain not just what the community is, but how it has helped them grow, and which lessons they’ll take from their experiences in it to college. To continue answering these more specific questions, they might go on to say something like:

“ When I became an upperclassman myself, I knew I had big shoes to fill. Whether it be by organizing movie nights outside rehearsal, having younger cast members lead warmups, or even just encouraging the cast to sit together at lunch, my goal is that whenever any member of our group looks at the stage, they’ll know they’re a part of a community that will last forever.”

Prompt 2, Option F

Reflection is a central tenet of emory university’s values. craft a personal email giving advice to yourself in your first year of high school. (150 words).

This is an open-ended prompt that gives you the chance to reflect upon your high school experience, both its triumphs and failures. The purpose of this prompt is to show the admissions reader your growth throughout high school and how you would approach it differently, if at all, if given a second chance.

The prompt may initially feel overbearingly profound, but your answer can really be quite simple. The more honest you are in your response, the more accurate a picture you will paint for Emory admissions officers, and while it may feel strange to show vulnerability to a complete stranger, remember that you’re not expected to have all the answers–you’re simply being asked to give advice to a past version of yourself.

That being said, it’s important to show perspective throughout your response. What lessons has high school taught you? Which moments were most pivotal? What aspects or experiences will you carry forward into college? Most specifically, reflect on your freshman year and what assumptions about high school you had that may have proved to be inaccurate. What fears did you have going in? Where did you find community, and how did you find it? What obstacles did you face and how did you overcome them? There are so many routes to follow when answering this prompt, which is exactly why it’s so important to be genuine, as if you try to write “what they want to see”, you’ll be cutting yourself off from some promising approaches.

Unlike many of the other options here, your letter requires no introduction or conclusion, connection to Emory or college in general, or acknowledgment that it’s even hypothetical. Treat the prompt as reality, and write exactly as if you were writing to your freshman year self.

Due to its informal structure, don’t be afraid to incorporate niche aspects of your personality, or even a touch of sarcasm or some other distinctive tone, into your letter. In fact, we recommend doing so as much as you can, as that will showcase a side of you that probably doesn’t show up anywhere else in your application. Whether by relying on humor, sincerity, or bluntness, make this response truly your own. Certainly, keep in mind that the people reading your essay will be complete strangers, but as long as you aren’t saying anything offensive, get in touch with what you would actually say to your past self. For example:

“Dear Robby,

I know how you must be feeling. I know, because, well, I’m you. You’re wide awake, watching Steph Curry highlights at 3 am while trying (and failing) to imagine him as an anxious teenager before his first day of high school. Unfortunately, I have to be honest with you–even now, you’re no closer to being the greatest shooter of all time. Actually, you’re probably further away… you ended up as the manager of the team, not the star. Sorry about that. But that shows what you have become: unafraid to embrace an unexpected path forward, and humble enough to contribute to things you love in a way that won’t make any headlines. So try to get some sleep tonight. Most of us will never be Steph, but nobody would ever know how many points he scored if his manager wasn’t keeping track.

Love, Yourself”

Where to Get Your Emory Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your Emory essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools.  Find the right advisor for you  to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

site categories

Bethenny frankel puts divorce podcast on pause following mom’s death.

• ‘Baby Reindeer’ Star Jessica Gunning Talks Mastering Accents & Her Debut Writing Credit On ‘The Outlaws’

By Max Goldbart

Max Goldbart

International TV Co-Editor

More Stories By Max

• Channel 4 Makes Final Greenlight Decision On Two Of Its Biggest Entertainment Launches Of 2023
• UK’s Pact & Equity Urge Government Intervention On AI

Baby Reindeer star Jessica Gunning has been generating headlines aplenty for her creepy turn as Martha in Netflix’s stalking thriller series, but she’s imminently set to return to screens on both sides of the pond in the third season of the BBC /Amazon’s The Outlaws .

Gunning talked the Creative Cities Convention through her role as community services officer Diane in Stephen Merchant ‘s hit dramedy.

Related Stories

UK's Pact & Equity Urge Government Intervention On AI

Netflix UK Boss Says She Will Not Change Course When Streamer Stops Reporting Subs Numbers

“I love working with Stephen and he does let us add bits [of writing] here and there,” she said. “I was lucky enough to be in the writers room for Season 3 and I learned so much behind the scenes. I was honored to be a part of that.”

In Season 3, Gunning’s character returns with new sidekick Stan, played by Ten Percent’s Harry Trevaldwyn, who Diane is training up while doing a night class in criminology.

Gunning’s role as Martha in Netflix chart-topper Baby Reindeer about comedian Richard Gadd’s real-life experience of being stalked has dominated the cultural zeitgeist over the past few days. Gunning has garnered plaudits aplenty for her performance including her Scottish accent, and the Pride and Back star detailed today how she has mastered a strong Bristol accent in The Outlaws, which is set in the English city in the south west.

“I work with an accent coach and try and do as much work as I can,” she said. “And it’s amazing having so many crew from Bristol, so I would ask them, ‘How do you say this?’ or, ‘How do you say that?’.”

When she was first given scripts to The Outlaws several years ago, Gunning said she had thought it was a straight drama and had performed her audition in this vein.

“I said, ‘Oh, I wasn’t trying to be funny’ and the people auditioning me were in fits,” she added. “The way Stephen writes his comedic voice is so familiar to me and I knew what he wanted from [the character].”

Gunning was joined on stage by fellow Outlaws cast members along with EP Kenton Allen, who runs Big Talk Studios.

‘The Offenders’ in LA

The show swiftly moved to Bristol, drawing on The Office co-creator Merchant’s experience, before picking up a big financial contribution from Amazon, which allowed for the casting of the likes of Christopher Walken .

Allen said the city of Bristol, which is playing host to the Creative Cities Convention this year, “had not really been filmed contemporarily in drama for a long time.”

“ Bridgerton is shot here but there are lots of amazing locations, stories and characters so that was part of the sell,” he added. “And the BBC likes to spread its tentacles far and wide to represent different parts of the country.”

Allen scotched the notion that the cast’s strong Bristolian accents bemuse U.S. viewers, pointing out that global audiences are “becoming more used to leaning into the specifics of a story” and that subtitles are more commonly used in the streaming era.

The Outlaws team were speaking at the Creative Cities Convention after a talk from Mr Bates vs the Post Office director James Strong.

Must Read Stories

Zendaya-palooza: ‘challengers’ opens as ‘dune: part two’ returns to imax.

Post Malone & Platinum Dunes Team With Vault Comics For Medieval-Set IP

Julie cohen & betsy west dig into participant shutdown, “several” injured in accident on set of amazon’s eddie murphy film ‘the pickup’.

Subscribe to Deadline Breaking News Alerts and keep your inbox happy.

Read More About:

Deadline is a part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2024 Deadline Hollywood, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Recommended

Breaking news, columbia university faces calls for tuition refunds as school moves to hybrid classes for rest of term in wake of anti-israel protests.

• View Author Archive
• Email the Author
• Get author RSS feed

Contact The Author

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Columbia University has announced that classes at its main campus will be held remotely for the final weeks of the semester — as critics blasted the “weak” administration for allowing anti-Israel student protesters to shut down the college “in essence” and called on parents to seek tuition refunds.

“It’s vital that teaching and learning continue during this time. We recognize conditions vary across our campuses and thus are issuing the following guidelines,” provost Angela Olinto wrote in a Monday night notice to students and faculty as the anti-Israel encampment on campus neared the seven-day mark.

Classes on the university’s Morningside Heights campus will be hybrid — “technology permitting” — through the end of the spring 2024 semester on April 29, the letter said.

Faculty without the means to provide hybrid classes were urged to consider the fully remote option, and to “provide other accommodations liberally” in the final days of the semester.

“Safety is our highest priority as we strive to support our students’ learning and all the required academic operations,” Olinto wrote.

Those on campus, however, said the move was disappointing.

Junior Michael D’Agostino, 22, said the hybrid classes were frustrating given “the amount we pay to be at this school to learn from these amazing faculties and professors.”

“I’m studying applied physics and applied math and those are classes I really benefit from being in-person. I went through COVID  and all that when we were online for about a year and it really disrupted our education,” he added.

“I really think it’s disheartening to see how our education is being punished as a result of this,” he said of the school’s response to the protests. “I think it’s really sad.”

Former White House press secretary Ari Fleischer slammed the decision to move to hybrid classes for the end of the semester, writing that “’protesters’ have in essence shut down Columbia University.”

“It’s terrible how weak the school’s leaders – and especially its faculty – are,” Fleischer wrote on X . “The school should be fully open (no remote classes) and students who disrupt other students should be expelled.”

Follow The Post’s coverage of the anti-Israel protests at Columbia University:

• Columbia cancels in-person classes to ‘reset’ as anti-Israel protests raise tensions
• Columbia’s most outspoken critic of anti-Israel protesters, Prof. Shai Davidai, refused entry to campus for pro-Jewish rally
• Elise Stefanik, all NY House GOP lawmakers demand Columbia President Minouche Shafik resign immediately
• Columbia Jewish alumni demand firing of president Shafik for failing to protect students on campus

Meanwhile, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee slammed the university for allowing the anti-Israel protesters “to roam around spewing genocidal chants.”

“If a parent has a child at Columbia, they should demand a refund and then sue for breach of contract,” Huckabee wrote on X .

Classes at Barnard College, the historically women’s college affiliated with Columbia, are still in-person, the Columbia Daily Spectator noted .

Israel War Update

Get the most important developments in the region, globally and locally.

Thanks for signing up!

Please provide a valid email address.

By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy .

Never miss a story.

Columbia and Barnard held remote classes on Monday to “de-escalate the rancor” on campus, university president Manouche Shafik announced early that day .

“I am deeply saddened by what is happening on our campus. Our bonds as a community have been severely tested in ways that will take a great deal of time and effort to reaffirm,” Shafik wrote. 

Meanwhile, the college appeared to be beefing up security on its main campus.

One security guard said the university’s contractor, Apex Security Group Inc., was recruiting more workers for its 7 p.m.-to-7 a.m. shift at a rate of $240 a day.

“It’s my first day. We need it,” the worker told The Post.

Columbia became the nexus of pro-Palestinian efforts on campuses across the country last Wednesday, when a tent encampment emerged on one of the lawns in front of Butler Library.

Jewish students reported feeling unsafe due to the antisemitic language of some of the protesters and their supporters who gathered outside the campus gates.

“We’re all Hamas … Long live Hamas!” one off-campus agitator could be heard yelling in a video posted on X by the watchdog Stop Antisemitism .

On Thursday, Shafik took the extraordinary step of requesting the NYPD enter the campus and break up the protest, which resulted in the arrest of over 100 participants .

The move immediately drew backlash from the pro-Palestinian students’ supporters and faculty members — while others insisted that the university is still not doing enough to protect Jewish students from harassment and harm.

Antisemitism controversy at Columbia University: Key events

• Columbia University president Minouche Shafik  was accused of “gross negligence” while testifying before Congress. Shafik refused to say if the phrase “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” is antisemitic.
• More than 100 Columbia professors signed a letter defending students who support the “military action” by Hamas.
• Antisemitic posters depicting Israel as a skunk appeared on campus — which experts liken to a propaganda poster used by the Nazis in World War II.
• Columbia students erected 60 tents on campus to demand that the university divest from Israel.
• More than 100 other protesters were arrested after Shafik announced the campus’s closure.
• Israel-born professor Shai Davidai was barred from campus after he attempted to lead a pro-Jewish rally.
• Every New York House GOP lawmaker demanded that Shafik resign immediately .
• Columbia University’s Jewish Alumni Association also called for Shafik’s resignation .

The arrests also sparked a series of similar encampments at other universities, including Yale and NYU.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul stopped by the Morningside Heights campus, where on Monday she met with university officials and the NYPD about the public safety crisis.

“The recent harassment and rhetoric is vile and abhorrent. Every student deserves to be safe,” she shared on X .

Also on Monday, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft announced his bombshell decision to withhold donations from the school due to the recent unrest.

One of Kraft’s many past contributions to his alma mater was the Kraft Center for Jewish Life, home to Columbia and Barnard’s Hillel.

Share this article:

Advertisement

• Share full article

Why the World Still Needs Immanuel Kant

Unlike in Europe, few in the United States will be celebrating the philosopher’s 300th birthday. But Kant’s writing shows that a free, just and moral life is possible — and that’s relevant everywhere.

Credit... Illustration by Daniel Barreto

Supported by

By Susan Neiman

The philosopher Susan Neiman is the director of the Einstein Forum in Potsdam, Germany.

• Published April 17, 2024 Updated April 18, 2024

When I arrived in Berlin in 1982, I was writing a dissertation on Kant’s conception of reason. It was thrilling to learn that the apartment I’d sublet turned out to be located near Kantstrasse, though at the time I wondered in frustration: Why was there no James Street — Henry or William — in the Cambridge, Mass., I’d left behind; no streets honoring Emerson or Eliot? Were Americans as indifferent to culture as snooty Europeans supposed? It didn’t take long before I, too, could walk down Kantstrasse and turn right on Leibniz without a thought.

It’s harder to ignore the way Germany, like other European nations, sets aside entire years to honor its cultural heroes. This century has already seen an Einstein Year , a Beethoven Year , a Luther Year and a Marx Year , each commemorating some round-numbered anniversary of the hero in question. Federal and local governments provide considerable sums for events that celebrate the thinkers in question and debate their contemporary relevance.

Years before Immanuel Kant’s 300th birthday on April 22, 2024, the Academy of Science in Berlin, to which he once belonged, organized a conference to begin preparations for his tercentennial. A second conference published a report of the proceedings, but when I urged colleagues to use the occasion to create programs for a wider audience, I was met with puzzled silence. Reaching a wider audience is not a talent philosophy professors normally cultivate, but conversations with other cultural institutions showed this case to be especially thorny.

It wasn’t just uneasiness about celebrating “another dead white man,” as one museum director put it. The problems became deeper as the zeitgeist changed. “ Immanuel Kant: A European Thinker ” was a good title for that conference report in 2019, when Brexit seemed to threaten the ideal of European unification Germans supported. Just a few years later, “European” has become a slur. At a time when the Enlightenment is regularly derided as a Eurocentric movement designed to support colonialism, who feels comfortable throwing a yearlong birthday party for its greatest thinker?

Nonetheless, this year’s ceremonies will officially commence on April 22 with a speech by Chancellor Scholz and a memorial lunch that has taken place on the philosopher’s birthday every year since 1805. Two days earlier, President Frank-Walter Steinmeier of Germany will open an exhibit at the presidential palace devoted to Kant’s writing on peace.

The start of the year saw special Kant editions of four prominent German magazines. A Kant movie made for television premiered on March 1, and another is in production. Four exhibits on Kant and the Enlightenment will open in Bonn, Lüneburg, Potsdam and Berlin. The conferences will be numerous, including one organized by the Divan, Berlin’s house for Arab culture.

But why celebrate the Kant year at all?

The philosopher’s occasional autobiographical remarks provide a clue to the answer. As the son of a saddle maker, Kant would have led a workman’s life himself, had a pastor not suggested the bright lad deserved some higher education. He came to love his studies and to “despise the common people who knew nothing,” until “Rousseau set me right,” he wrote. Kant rejected his earlier elitism and declared his philosophy would restore the rights of humanity — otherwise they would be more useless than the work of a common laborer.

Chutzpah indeed. The claim becomes even more astonishing if you read a random page of his texts. How on earth, you may ask, are human rights connected with proving our need to think in categories like “cause” or “substance?” The question is seldom raised, and the autobiographical remarks usually ignored, for traditional readings of Kant focus on his epistemology, or theory of knowledge.

Before Kant, it’s said, philosophers were divided between Rationalists and Empiricists, who were concerned about the sources of knowledge. Does it come from our senses, or our reason? Can we ever know if anything is real? By showing that knowledge requires sensory experience as well as reason, we’re told, Kant refuted the skeptics’ worry that we never know if anything exists at all.

All this is true, but it hardly explains why the poet Heinrich Heine found Kant more ruthlessly revolutionary than Robespierre. Nor does it explain why Kant himself said only pedants care about that kind of skepticism. Ordinary people do not fret over the reality of tables or chairs or billiard balls. They do, however, wonder if ideas like freedom and justice are merely fantasies. Kant’s main goal was to show they are not.

The point is often missed, because Kant was as bad a writer as he was a great philosopher. By the time he finishes proving the existence of the objects of ordinary experience and is ready to show how they differ from ideas of reason, the semester is nearly over. Long-windedness is not, however, the only reason his work is often misinterpreted. Consider the effects of a bad review.

Had Kant died before his 57th birthday, he’d be remembered by a few scholars for some short, early texts. He withdrew from writing them in 1770 to conceive and compose his great “Critique of Pure Reason .” After what scholars call his “silent decade,” Kant pulled the text together in six months and finally published in 1781. For a year and a half, Kant waited for responses. When one finally appeared, it was a hatchet job accusing him of being a Berkeleyan solipsist: someone who denies the existence of ordinary objects.

Any author can imagine Kant’s dismay, and most likely his rage. In haste to refute the distortion of his life’s work, Kant wrote a second edition of the “Critique of Pure Reason,” and more fatefully, the “Prolegomena .” Since the latter is much shorter than the main book, it’s read far more often, and this has skewed the interpretation of Kant’s work as a whole. If the major problem of philosophy were proving the world’s existence, then Kant surely solved it. (Richard Rorty argued that he did, and that philosophy has little more to offer.)

In fact Kant was driven by a question that still plagues us: Are ideas like freedom and justice utopian daydreams, or are they more substantial? Their reality can’t be proven like that of material objects, for those ideas make entirely different claims on us — and some people are completely impervious to their claims. Could philosophy show that acting morally, if not particularly common, is at least possible?

A stunning thought experiment answers that question in his next book, the “Critique of Practical Reason .” Kant asks us to imagine a man who says temptation overwhelms him whenever he passes “a certain house.” (The 18th century was discreet.) But if a gallows were constructed to insure the fellow would be hanged upon exiting the brothel, he’d discover he can resist temptation very well. All mortal temptations fade in the face of threats to life itself.

Yet the same man would hesitate if asked to condemn an innocent man to death, even if a tyrant threatened to execute him instead. Kant always emphasized the limits of our knowledge, and none of us know if we would crumble when faced with death or torture. Most of us probably would. But all of us know what we should do in such a case, and we know that we could .

This experiment shows we are radically free. Not pleasure but justice can move human beings to deeds that overcome the deepest of animal desires, the love of life. We want to determine the world, not only to be determined by it. We are born and we die as part of nature, but we feel most alive when we go beyond it: To be human is to refuse to accept the world we are given.

At the heart of Kant’s metaphysics stands the difference between the way the world is and the way the world ought to be. His thought experiment is an answer to those who argue that we are helpless in the face of pleasure and can be satisfied with bread and circuses — or artisanal chocolate and the latest iPhone. If that were true, benevolent despotism would be the best form of government.

But if we long, in our best moments, for the dignity of freedom and justice, Kant’s example has political consequences. It’s no surprise he thought the French Revolution confirmed our hopes for moral progress — unlike the followers of his predecessor David Hume, who thought it was dangerous to stray from tradition and habit.

This provides an answer to contemporary critics whose reading of Kant’s work focuses on the ways in which it violates our understanding of racism and sexism. Some of his remarks are undeniably offensive to 21st-century ears. But it’s fatal to forget that his work gave us the tools to fight racism and sexism, by providing the metaphysical basis of every claim to human rights.

Kant argued that each human being must be treated as an end and not as a means — which is why he called colonialism “evil” and congratulated the Chinese and Japanese for denying entry to European invaders. Contemporary dismissals of Enlightenment thinkers forget that those thinkers invented the concept of Eurocentrism, and urged their readers to consider the world from non-European perspectives. Montesquieu put his criticisms of French society in the mouths of fictitious Persians; Lahontan attacked European politics through dialogues with a Native American.

At a time when the advice to “be realistic” is best translated as the advice to decrease your expectations, Kant’s work asks deep questions about what reality is. He insisted that when we think morally, we should abstract from the cultural differences that divide us and recognize the potential human dignity in every human being. This requires the use of our reason. Contrary to trendy views that see reason as an instrument of domination, Kant saw reason’s potential as a tool for liberation.

He also argued that political and social relations must aim toward justice rather than power, however often those may be confused in practice. We’ve come to better understand how racism and sexism can preclude genuine universalism. Should we discard Kant’s commitment to universalism because he did not fully realize it himself — or rather celebrate the fact that we can make moral progress, an idea which Kant would wholeheartedly applaud?

In Germany, it’s now common to hear that the Enlightenment was at very best ambivalent: While it may have been an age of reason, it was also an age of slavery and colonialism. This argument ignores the fact that, like progressive intellectuals everywhere, Enlightenment thinkers did not win all their battles. It also neglects the fact that they fought for them anyway, despite the risks of censorship, exile and even death.

Significantly, many contemporary intellectuals from formerly colonized countries reject those arguments. Thinkers like the Ghanaian Ato Sekyi-Otu, the Nigerian Olufemi Taiwo, the Chilean Carlos Peña, the Brazilian Francisco Bosco or the Indian Benjamin Zachariah are hardly inclined to renounce Enlightenment ideas as Eurocentric.

The problem with ideas like universal human rights is not that they come from Europe, but that they were not realized outside of it. Perhaps we should take a lesson from the Enlightenment and listen to non-Western standpoints?

Arts and Culture Across Europe

Our theater critics and a reporter discuss the big winne r —  Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Sunset Boulevard” — and the rest of the honorees at this year’s Olivier Awards .

New productions of “Macbeth” and “Hamlet” in Paris follow a French tradition of adapting familiar works . The results are innovative, and sometimes cryptic.

The internet latched on to 16-year-old Felicia Dawkins’ performance as The Unknown at a shambolic Willy Wonka-inspired event . Now she’s heading to a bigger and scarier stage in London.

When activists urged Tate Britain in London to take an offensive artwork off its walls, the institution commissioned Keith Piper  to create a response instead. The result recently went on display.

The new National Holocaust Museum in Amsterdam has been in the works for almost 20 years. It is the first institution to tell the full story  of the persecution of Dutch Jews during World War II.

At a retrospective of John Singer Sargent’s portraits in London, where the American expatriate fled after creating a scandal in Paris, clothes offer both armor and self-expression .

Advertisement