How should I approach the Holy Cross supplemental essay?

Feeling like your 'Why Holy Cross?' essay sounds generic is a really common challenge, but the good news is the way to stand out usually comes down to specificity and connection to your own story. When Holy Cross asks why you want to attend, they want to know not just that you’ve done your research, but why the particular things at Holy Cross connect with you on a personal level.

First, definitely mention concrete aspects of the school—professors you’d love to learn from, unique programs in political science (like the Washington Semester, or the Thomas More Lecture Series), coursework that excites you, or organizations like the Holy Cross Political Science Student Association. But it’s not enough to list these; what will make your essay pop is tying them to something meaningful about your interests or experiences.

For example, instead of saying, “I want to join the Washington Semester program,” try something like, “Ever since I interned at my city council office and saw the impact of policy decisions up close, I’ve sought ways to merge hands-on government experience with my classroom learning. Holy Cross’s Washington Semester program, with its direct placements and weekly seminars, fits exactly what I want for my next step.”

Campus culture is a great angle too, especially if you draw from a campus visit, a virtual info session, or a conversation with a current student. Maybe you noticed the collaborative vibe, heard about the Montserrat first-year experience, or learned about a particular tradition—say, the annual Unity Week—that aligns with values you genuinely hold. If you can show how you see yourself contributing to or benefiting from these aspects, it reads as much more authentic.

People who got accepted often included very specific details, like referencing a conversation with a professor, a moment from a campus tour, or a service program they hope to join and why. It’s less about being exhaustive with Holy Cross facts, and more about connecting one or two elements of the school deeply to who you are and what you hope to do.

To sum up: Pick 1-2 things that are unique to Holy Cross and connect them directly to your experiences, values, or goals. The more vivid and personal your connections are, the less generic your essay will sound. If you’re writing about political science, maybe focus on a particular class, a local project or study opportunity, and how you’ll engage with the Jesuit commitment to service and ethics as part of your academic journey.

A quick example: 'During my high school’s Model UN, I realized how important it is to combine intellectual rigor with ethical reflection—values that shape the political science department at Holy Cross. I’m especially drawn to Professor Matlak’s seminars on American political thought, and I hope to contribute to SPUD’s civic engagement initiatives, continuing my passion for public service in a community shaped by Jesuit values.'

That’s specific, tied to personal experience, and demonstrates a real connection to what makes Holy Cross different. Good luck!