How should I approach the Skidmore College supplemental essay?

The Skidmore supplemental essay can feel daunting because its open-ended nature invites both creativity and introspection. Skidmore really does value originality and self-reflection, so your response should highlight both who you are and why Skidmore is a great fit for your unique personality, interests, and goals.

If you’re interested in creative writing and psychology, consider combining these interests in your essay to show your authentic self. For example, you might write about a moment when you used creative writing to process an experience related to human behavior or mental health—maybe you wrote a short story in response to a psychology concept that fascinated you in class. This approach highlights both your academic interests and the personal drive underlying your studies.

Try to avoid the generic approach of simply listing your achievements or saying you want small classes and a liberal arts environment. Instead, tell a story or describe an experience that is meaningful to you, especially if it helped shape your curiosity or values. For instance, you could write about a day when leading your school's creative writing club helped you understand the psychology of motivation in others. Then, show how Skidmore’s unique programs (for example, their interdisciplinary focus and opportunities like Scribner Seminars or the Periclean Honors Forum) will help you deepen both passions at the same time.

Skidmore appreciates essays that tie your personal interests and experiences to what you would contribute to their community. Make it clear that you’ve researched Skidmore by referencing specific professors, courses, or extracurriculars, but do this in the context of your story rather than as a list.

Many successful applicants write about a unique challenge, an intellectual curiosity, or a quirky hobby to illustrate their multi-dimensional personality. One example: a student wrote about how their fascination with dreams (psychology) led to a poetry collection exploring the subconscious. This story worked because it was very personal and showed real enthusiasm for learning.

In summary, let your genuine voice come through, focus on specificity rather than broad statements, and connect your personal journey to what you hope to do at Skidmore. The more authentic and detailed you are, the more you'll stand out to admissions officers.