A supplementary essay is an additional written component that some colleges or universities may require as part of the application process. While the main college application typically includes general prompts and information, supplementary essays are specific to each institution and are designed to gather more personalized and detailed insights about the applicant.

Supplementary essays focus on specific aspects of the college or university. These essays provide an opportunity for applicants to showcase their knowledge, interest, and fit with the institution by addressing topics such as why they are interested in that particular college, specific programs or courses they are drawn to, how they can contribute to the campus community or any unique experiences or perspectives they bring.

The purpose of supplementary essays is to allow applicants to demonstrate their research about the institution and articulate their genuine interest and alignment with the college’s values, academic offerings, and community. It provides a chance for applicants to stand out and present a more tailored case for their admission to that specific college or university.

In this blog post, we will be discussing some of the most popular supplementary essay questions.

1. Why are you interested in our college/university? What specific aspects of our institution appeal to you?

This question is asking why you are interested in attending that specific college or university. It seeks to understand what specific aspects or features of the institution appeal to you and have influenced your decision to consider it as a potential choice for your higher education.

To answer this question you can talk about the following:
Discuss how the institution’s strong academic programs align with your educational goals. Discuss specific departments, courses, or professors that particularly interest you.
Emphasize any unique programs, research opportunities, internships, or study abroad options offered by the college/university that align with your academic or career interests.
Discuss the college’s values, student organizations, or extracurricular activities that resonate with your personal interests or passions. Talk about how you believe the campus community will support your growth and provide a welcoming environment.
If the college or university is situated in an enticing locale, such as a dynamic city or in close proximity to specific industries or research centers, elaborate on how the location can enrich both your educational and personal endeavors. If you come from an urban background and the campus itself reflects an urban environment, or if you come from the suburbs and the campus is nestled in a suburban area, discuss how this alignment will contribute to a seamless integration. However, if the campus location differs from your upbringing, express your curiosity and enthusiasm to explore this new experience and the opportunities it may bring.

2. How will you contribute to our campus community? What unique perspectives, talents, or experiences do you bring?

When addressing the question, “How will you contribute to our campus community? What unique perspectives, talents, or experiences do you bring?” It is important to showcase your potential impact and what sets you apart.
Begin by reflecting on your past experiences, both inside and outside of academics. Consider any leadership roles, community involvement, or extracurricular activities you have participated in. Talk about the special skills that you possess and how you can contribute to the university.
Consider your background, cultural heritage, or personal experiences that have shaped your perspectives. Think about how these perspectives can contribute to a more diverse and inclusive campus community. If you are an international student, discuss how you can see the world through a different perspective.
Identify your specific talents and skills that can benefit the campus community. These could include academic strengths, artistic abilities, athletic accomplishments, or any other expertise you possess. Explain how you can use these talents to contribute to campus activities, clubs, or projects.
Highlight your ability to work well with others and your willingness to collaborate. Discuss any instances where you have contributed positively to a team or group project. Express your desire to actively engage with the campus community and support your fellow students.

3. Reflect on a personal experience that sparked your interest in a particular field of study or career path. How do you plan to pursue this passion in college and beyond?

When reflecting on a personal experience that sparked your interest in a particular field of study or career path, it’s important to approach your essay in a thoughtful and genuine manner. Here are some general pointers to help you craft a compelling response:
Select an experience that had a significant influence on your decision to pursue a specific field of study or career path. It could be an event, a personal encounter, a project, or any other situation that left a lasting impression on you.
Set the scene by providing specific details about the experience. Engage the reader’s senses and emotions to help them understand the significance of the event. Use descriptive language and storytelling techniques to make your essay more engaging.

After describing the experience, articulate why it sparked your interest in the field of study or career path. What about the experience resonated with you? How did it connect with your values, skills, or aspirations? Clearly convey the cause-and-effect relationship between the experience and your passion.
Show that you have taken the initiative to learn more about the field of study or career path you’re interested in. Discuss specific aspects, concepts, or achievements related to the field that excites you. This demonstrates your genuine curiosity and dedication.
Explain how you plan to pursue this passion in college and beyond. Discuss specific academic programs, research opportunities, internships, or clubs at the college that align with your interests. Additionally, mention potential long-term goals and how you envision making an impact in your chosen field or career.

Admissions officers value authenticity and want to understand who you are as an individual. Reflect on your personal motivations, values, and goals, and demonstrate how they align with your chosen field of study or career path.

Credit:

This blog has been contributed by Nandini Sachdeva, an alumna of PPRO EED and now a student at Rutgers University-New Brunswick, New Jersey.