How should I approach the Columbia College essays?
I've been researching a lot about Columbia's supplemental essays, but I'm still not sure how to really nail them. The lists especially seem tricky—do I just mention everything I like, or is it better to focus on activities that are more unique or meaningful to me? For the other questions, is it better to be serious or show more personality?
I know Columbia is super competitive, so I want my essays to stand out, but I’m kind of worried about coming across as either too fake or too generic. For anyone who’s already gone through this, what tips do you have for handling the short answer questions and making your application memorable?
It’d be really helpful to hear what worked for other people, especially if you’re someone who got accepted or got an interview.
I know Columbia is super competitive, so I want my essays to stand out, but I’m kind of worried about coming across as either too fake or too generic. For anyone who’s already gone through this, what tips do you have for handling the short answer questions and making your application memorable?
It’d be really helpful to hear what worked for other people, especially if you’re someone who got accepted or got an interview.
1 week ago
•
14 views
Caroline Benson
• 1 week ago
Advisor
Columbia's supplements, especially the lists, are designed to understand your interests and how your mind works, rather than just having you show off impressive experiences or achievements. For the list questions (like 'List the books you enjoyed most recently' or 'List the cultural events you attended'), be honest and specific. Instead of trying to curate a list to impress the admissions committee, choose things you genuinely enjoyed or that truly shaped your thinking—even if they're not "academic." For example, you might list a graphic novel that challenged your worldview, a podcast that got you into social activism, or even an obscure YouTube series if it was meaningful to you. I’ve seen students successfully mention everything from classic literature to manga, from symphony concerts to open mic nights. The key is to show authentic curiosity and varied interests.
For the short essay responses, show who you are beyond your resume. Columbia loves applicants with personality and intellectual curiosity. Humor is fine if it feels natural, but don’t force it. If you’re answering ‘Why Columbia?,’ get specific about courses, professors, or campus traditions that connect with your interests or goals. For example, talk about how the Core Curriculum excites you because you want to discuss literature with people outside your major, or mention a club you’re eager to join that doesn’t exist elsewhere. Avoid generic statements like “Columbia is in New York City, so there’s a lot to do”—dig deeper into why that location matters to you, such as being near research opportunities or activism that aligns with your passions.
Definitely avoid making things up or name-dropping to look impressive. The risks of coming across as inauthentic are greater than missing out on a "unique" reference. I’ve known students who got interviews or admits because their essays revealed an honest passion—like one friend who wrote about discovering philosophy at a public library, and another who listed guilty pleasure reality shows alongside academic journals in the culture list.
When you re-read your answers, ask yourself: does this actually sound like me? Can someone else write the same thing? If not, you’re on the right track. Remember, Columbia sees tens of thousands of applications, so standing out comes from authenticity and thoughtfulness, not just unusual facts or big achievements.
For the short essay responses, show who you are beyond your resume. Columbia loves applicants with personality and intellectual curiosity. Humor is fine if it feels natural, but don’t force it. If you’re answering ‘Why Columbia?,’ get specific about courses, professors, or campus traditions that connect with your interests or goals. For example, talk about how the Core Curriculum excites you because you want to discuss literature with people outside your major, or mention a club you’re eager to join that doesn’t exist elsewhere. Avoid generic statements like “Columbia is in New York City, so there’s a lot to do”—dig deeper into why that location matters to you, such as being near research opportunities or activism that aligns with your passions.
Definitely avoid making things up or name-dropping to look impressive. The risks of coming across as inauthentic are greater than missing out on a "unique" reference. I’ve known students who got interviews or admits because their essays revealed an honest passion—like one friend who wrote about discovering philosophy at a public library, and another who listed guilty pleasure reality shows alongside academic journals in the culture list.
When you re-read your answers, ask yourself: does this actually sound like me? Can someone else write the same thing? If not, you’re on the right track. Remember, Columbia sees tens of thousands of applications, so standing out comes from authenticity and thoughtfulness, not just unusual facts or big achievements.
Caroline Benson
Brussels
Columbia University (BA); American University in Cairo (MA); Middlebury College (MA)
Experience
9 years