How do you approach the University of Washington supplemental essays using advice from College Essay Guy?

The University of Washington’s supplemental essay prompts are a great fit for some of the techniques College Essay Guy recommends because they ask for stories that highlight your individuality and lived experiences. A lot of applicants have found his brainstorming exercises, like "3-2-1 Brainstorm" (three life values, two favorite memories, one challenge you've faced), and "Essence Objects," to be really productive for uncovering unique topics for the main UW prompt on community, identity, and values.

For example, one student used the "Essence Objects" exercise (listing items that are deeply meaningful) to realize how her old tennis shoes represented her commitment to tutoring refugee kids after school. That story became the basis for a focused, specific essay about the intersection of service and cultural identity, which stood out because she tied a concrete object to her values and experiences.

Another hallmark of College Essay Guy’s approach is the "Feelings and Needs" exercise. For UW’s diversity or community involvement prompt, try making a chart: in one column, describe what happened in a story or environment, and in the second, jot down the feelings and needs behind your actions. This method can help your essay dig deeper than surface-level descriptions. For instance, writing not just about leading a club, but why you stepped up (empathy? A sense of justice? A wish to empower others?) gives your story more depth and authenticity.

When it comes to structure, many UW applicants benefit from the "Narrative Structure" College Essay Guy outlines (set the scene, describe the challenge, show how you responded, and the outcome or lesson learned). UW essays are short, so staying focused and choosing a single, vivid anecdote is key. Don’t try to cover your whole resume—zoom in on a memorable moment that encapsulates your identity or impact.

Finally, revision checklists from College Essay Guy can be very helpful. He recommends reading your draft aloud to ensure it sounds like you, and having a friend or family member read it to highlight sections where your voice or message shines (or could be clearer).

In sum: Use his brainstorming tools to find your most authentic stories, structure your essays tightly around a singular insight or transformation, and revise for voice, clarity, and impact. This approach can help you write responses that feel personal but also compelling to UW’s admissions readers.