You’ve written your personal statement—congratulations! 🎉 But for many colleges, the writing isn’t over yet. Supplemental essays are a key part of the application process, and they give colleges another window into who you are beyond grades and test scores. Here’s how to approach them with confidence.
✨ What Are Supplemental Essays?
Supplemental essays are additional writing prompts required by many colleges. They vary in length and style, but they’re designed to dig deeper into your personality, goals, and fit for a particular school.
Common types include:
- “Why Us?” Essays – Why are you interested in this college?
- Activity Essays – Highlighting an extracurricular or leadership experience.
- Community/Identity Essays – Exploring your background, culture, or values.
- Short Answers/Quick Takes – Fun, rapid-fire questions to show personality.
🖊️ Tips for Tackling Supplemental Essays
- Do Your Research
- Colleges want to know why them. Read about programs, professors, traditions, and campus culture. Be specific—mention what excites you and how you’ll contribute.
- Show, Don’t Tell
- Don’t just say “I want to attend because of your strong business program.” Instead, explain how their entrepreneurship incubator aligns with your passion project or future goals.
- Recycle Thoughtfully
- Some prompts look similar, but never copy-paste. Adapt essays so each one feels personalized to the school.
- Be Authentic
- Admissions officers want to hear your voice, not what you think they want to hear. Let your personality shine through, even in shorter responses.
- Keep Track of Deadlines & Word Counts
- Some supplements are 50 words; others are 650. Create a spreadsheet or checklist to stay organized.
✅ Final Takeaway
Think of supplemental essays as your chance to show schools the “why” behind your application. Done well, they connect your goals and experiences with what the college has to offer—and help admissions officers picture you as part of their community.
👉 Students: Which supplement are you most nervous about—“Why Us?” essays, short answers, or activity essays? Parents: How are you encouraging your teen to tackle these?
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