What are some tips for writing Pomona College's supplemental essays?

Pomona's supplemental essays are a great opportunity to show who you are beyond grades and test scores, so it’s smart to focus on personality and honest reflection. Their prompts are usually open-ended to encourage creativity and deeper thinking, but you don’t need to force yourself to be quirky or abstract if that’s not your style. The key is authenticity and a specific connection to Pomona.

For the “Why Pomona?” essay, dig deeper than surface-level features like location, small class sizes, or broad academic offerings—those are true for many liberal arts colleges. Instead, focus on the unique aspects of Pomona that genuinely excite you, such as specific courses, research opportunities, a professor whose work you admire, or student organizations/programs available only at Pomona. For example, maybe you’ve looked into the Pomona College Organic Farm and you’re eager to join their sustainability projects because of your interest in permaculture. Or perhaps you’re fascinated by their Intercollegiate Ethnic Studies program and the chance to take classes at the other Claremont Colleges.

If the prompt is more creative or asks for a story (like “Which book has influenced you the most?”), convey your personality and values directly and honestly. Show admissions a piece of who you are by sharing an anecdote or insight. For example, one student wrote about collecting and restoring vintage radios, tying that hobby to curiosity about how different voices can connect across time—a metaphor for seeking connection at Pomona.

Analytical vs. creative doesn’t matter as much as voice and sincerity. If you’re analytical, maybe use that strength to break down a problem you care about and how you’d address it at Pomona. If you’re creative, let your language or approach reflect that. Don’t write what you think they want to hear—write what you want them to know about you.

Specificity always helps essays stand out. Instead of "great professors," try "I’m inspired by Professor Grinnell’s research on ethics in the digital age, and I’m eager to enroll in her Philosophy of Technology course to explore these questions firsthand." This both answers the 'why Pomona' prompt and gives a sense of what you will bring to the community.

Lastly, you can ask a mentor or reader to check if your essays are both answering the prompt and capturing your individuality. When in doubt: show, don’t just tell. Use stories or examples from your life to anchor your points, even if you’re talking about abstract qualities.

Good luck drafting! Just remember that Pomona values students who are intellectually curious, collaborative, and ready to take initiative—so don’t be afraid to share how you’ll make an impact on their campus.