What types of essays do colleges ask for and how are they different?
I'm starting to work on my college applications and I'm a bit confused about all the essays I might need to write. I know there's the main Common App personal statement, but then every school seems to have its own set of essays too?
For example, I've heard about supplemental essays, "why us" essays, and sometimes short responses or even portfolios. Are there actual types or categories of essays that I should know about so I can plan ahead? Any advice on how to approach each one differently would really help!
Would love to hear examples of what a school might ask for and how you decided which topics to use for each type.
For example, I've heard about supplemental essays, "why us" essays, and sometimes short responses or even portfolios. Are there actual types or categories of essays that I should know about so I can plan ahead? Any advice on how to approach each one differently would really help!
Would love to hear examples of what a school might ask for and how you decided which topics to use for each type.
4 months ago
•
17 views
Camille Luong
• 4 months ago
Advisor
You're right—colleges can (and often do!) ask for several different types of essays as part of your application. Knowing what each kind is, and what they're looking for, can help you plan ahead and avoid repeating yourself. Here are the main categories you’ll likely encounter:
1. Main Personal Statement (Common App/Coalition/Core Essay):
This is the big one—usually 650 words for the Common App. It’s meant to showcase who you are beyond grades and test scores. Your topic can be anything that reveals your personality, growth, values, or passions. For example, you might write about how a particular experience changed your perspective or a challenge you overcame in a unique way.
2. Supplemental Essays:
These are additional essays that individual colleges request. They tend to be shorter (ranging from 100 to 400 words) and are tailored to specific prompts. Common types you’ll see include:
- “Why Us?” Essays: These ask you why you want to attend that specific college. It’s important to research the school and mention programs, opportunities, or aspects that genuinely excite you. For example, you might write about a unique internship program only they offer or a particular professor whose work aligns with your interests.
- Community and Diversity Essays: Here, you might be asked how you’ll contribute to campus diversity or describe a community you’re part of. Be personal and authentic—share a story or moment that shows what you bring.
- Academic/Intellectual Curiosity Essays: Some schools want to know about your academic interests or a time you explored a subject deeply. For this, you could describe a self-driven research project or an unusual hobby that demonstrates a love of learning.
- Extracurricular or Impact Essays: Sometimes you’re asked to elaborate on an activity or a challenge. Instead of summarizing your resume, focus on an experience that shaped you—like helping your community set up a local initiative.
- Short Answers/Quick Takes: These can be anything from “What’s your favorite snack?” to “Describe yourself in three words.” They’re meant to add personality quickly, so have fun with them!
3. Portfolio or Creative Submissions:
Some colleges (usually for art, music, or architecture programs) might ask for portfolios. Follow their guidelines exactly and choose pieces that reflect your best and most authentic work.
When choosing topics, make sure each essay says something new about you. For instance, if your main essay is about your passion for robotics, don’t focus all your supplements on technology. Instead, let the “Why Us?” essay highlight your love for the liberal arts aspect or campus culture.
Example: For MIT, you might write your main essay about building your own drone, but use a supplement to describe how you helped younger students at a science camp. This shows different sides of you—your skills and your mentorship abilities.
Plan ahead by making a chart of which types of essays each college requires. Start with your main essay, then tailor each supplement to highlight fresh aspects of you. Ask yourself: "What haven't I told them yet that matters?"
Approaching the process this way will keep your application cohesive but not repetitive. Good luck—you’ve got this!
1. Main Personal Statement (Common App/Coalition/Core Essay):
This is the big one—usually 650 words for the Common App. It’s meant to showcase who you are beyond grades and test scores. Your topic can be anything that reveals your personality, growth, values, or passions. For example, you might write about how a particular experience changed your perspective or a challenge you overcame in a unique way.
2. Supplemental Essays:
These are additional essays that individual colleges request. They tend to be shorter (ranging from 100 to 400 words) and are tailored to specific prompts. Common types you’ll see include:
- “Why Us?” Essays: These ask you why you want to attend that specific college. It’s important to research the school and mention programs, opportunities, or aspects that genuinely excite you. For example, you might write about a unique internship program only they offer or a particular professor whose work aligns with your interests.
- Community and Diversity Essays: Here, you might be asked how you’ll contribute to campus diversity or describe a community you’re part of. Be personal and authentic—share a story or moment that shows what you bring.
- Academic/Intellectual Curiosity Essays: Some schools want to know about your academic interests or a time you explored a subject deeply. For this, you could describe a self-driven research project or an unusual hobby that demonstrates a love of learning.
- Extracurricular or Impact Essays: Sometimes you’re asked to elaborate on an activity or a challenge. Instead of summarizing your resume, focus on an experience that shaped you—like helping your community set up a local initiative.
- Short Answers/Quick Takes: These can be anything from “What’s your favorite snack?” to “Describe yourself in three words.” They’re meant to add personality quickly, so have fun with them!
3. Portfolio or Creative Submissions:
Some colleges (usually for art, music, or architecture programs) might ask for portfolios. Follow their guidelines exactly and choose pieces that reflect your best and most authentic work.
When choosing topics, make sure each essay says something new about you. For instance, if your main essay is about your passion for robotics, don’t focus all your supplements on technology. Instead, let the “Why Us?” essay highlight your love for the liberal arts aspect or campus culture.
Example: For MIT, you might write your main essay about building your own drone, but use a supplement to describe how you helped younger students at a science camp. This shows different sides of you—your skills and your mentorship abilities.
Plan ahead by making a chart of which types of essays each college requires. Start with your main essay, then tailor each supplement to highlight fresh aspects of you. Ask yourself: "What haven't I told them yet that matters?"
Approaching the process this way will keep your application cohesive but not repetitive. Good luck—you’ve got this!
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Camille Luong
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Stanford University, BAH in Urban Studies
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