How should I approach the Union College supplemental essays for this application cycle?

Union College supplemental essays typically invite you to show why you’re a great fit for the college and how you’ll contribute to the campus community. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, but breaking each prompt down can really help. Start by carefully reading each question and asking yourself: What is Union really trying to learn about me through this prompt?

For example, if a prompt asks about your interest in Union or a specific program, be as specific as possible. Reference Union’s unique trimester system, their strong interdisciplinary programs, or a club or research initiative that truly excites you. The more you tie your response to Union’s distinct offerings, the more convincing your essay will be.

If there’s a choice between focusing on your academic interests or an extracurricular, choose the area that highlights your most authentic self—especially if it connects back to Union’s resources. For instance, if you’re passionate about environmental science and Union has a sustainability initiative that excites you, discuss how your high school experience inspired you and how you’ll build on that at Union. On the other hand, if your extracurricular is truly memorable and unique (think: starting a coding club for students with disabilities, or building a composting system at your school), don’t hesitate to write about it—just be sure to reflect deeply on what it meant to you.

Mistakes to avoid: don’t be overly generic or just copy-and-paste info about Union you could say about any college. Also, avoid restating your resume. Instead, focus on moments of growth, conflict, or curiosity. If you can, share a specific story—maybe a turning point in your academic exploration, or a time you initiated change in your community. For example, one successful applicant wrote about a single afternoon where they helped mediate a peer conflict in their youth activism group: the story was narrow but vivid, showing both leadership and empathy.

In summary, let your personal voice shine, anchor your answer in specifics, and show how you’ll take advantage of Union’s unique opportunities. Take some time to jot down a few stories or moments that really shaped your values or ambitions—those details will bring your essay to life.