Does anyone have examples of successful Providence College supplemental essays?

While most colleges—including Providence—don’t publish successful supplemental essays, there are definitely some patterns and tips you can follow, especially since Providence College’s supplemental prompt usually asks about your alignment with their values or why you want to attend.

Think of Providence as wanting to see your authentic voice, strong self-awareness, and specific connections to their mission. Their essays are typically just 250–500 words, so they’re looking for focused, genuine snapshots of who you are. It’s less about using fancy language and more about showing thoughtfulness and fit with the school.

Here’s an example framework (not from a real essay, but captures what works):

Let’s say you’re active in your church and love biology. You might start with a moment: volunteering at a local clinic through your youth group, where you realized how science and faith can intersect to serve others. Then, connect that to Providence’s strong emphasis on service, faith, and academics. Maybe mention a specific Providence program that blends community outreach and biology, like the Feinstein Institute for Public Service.

An effective structure is: start with a vivid personal moment, reflect on how it shaped you, then connect directly to a Providence resource or value.

A quick sample excerpt:

"When I organized a youth group trip to the community health fair, I saw firsthand how science could be used as a tool for change. Taking blood pressures or explaining nutrition basics wasn’t just about facts—it was about making people feel cared for. I’m drawn to Providence because of programs like Health Policy and Management and the strong commitment to community partnerships. I want to deepen my understanding of biology in a place where service, learning, and faith are all equally valued."

If you still feel stuck, a good step is to read essays for schools with similar mission-driven prompts. But most importantly, focus your own essay on a vivid anecdote, genuine reflection, and a specific connection to Providence’s values. Admissions wants to see how you’d grow in—and contribute to—their unique community.

Let me know if you want help brainstorming! And for privacy reasons, most admitted students won't post their full essays online, but you can often find snippets or reviews on forums. Just be cautious about using them too closely; your voice matters most.