Does anyone have examples of Rutgers Honors College supplemental essays?
I'm starting to brainstorm ideas for the Rutgers Honors College supplemental essay but I'm having trouble figuring out what an ideal response looks like. I want to make sure that my essay stands out and truly reflects who I am.
If anyone feels comfortable sharing excerpts or full examples of successful essays (either their own or ones they've found online), I would really appreciate it. It would help me understand the tone and level of detail they're looking for.
Also, if you have advice on what the essay readers pay most attention to, I'd love to hear your thoughts. I want to make a strong impression in my application.
If anyone feels comfortable sharing excerpts or full examples of successful essays (either their own or ones they've found online), I would really appreciate it. It would help me understand the tone and level of detail they're looking for.
Also, if you have advice on what the essay readers pay most attention to, I'd love to hear your thoughts. I want to make a strong impression in my application.
2 months ago
•
211 views
Lydia Schooler
• 2 months ago
Advisor
While I can't share actual full essays, I can definitely guide you on what makes a strong Rutgers Honors College supplemental essay and offer an illustrative example excerpt. The Rutgers Honors College prompt tends to invite you to reflect on the concept of community, your values, and how you see yourself engaging with the Honors College cohort.
Readers are looking for authentic insights into your character and how you think. They care about concrete details (rather than broad platitudes), a clear sense of your voice, and evidence that you’ve reflected on what being part of the Honors College means. Specificity is key—write about a particular experience, belief, or aspiration rather than generic traits like "I’m hardworking."
For example, suppose the prompt asks about a time you contributed to community or overcame a challenge. Instead of generally saying you value diversity, you might write about an afternoon spent tutoring a classmate who recently immigrated and didn't speak much English. Describe your initial nerves, how you found ways to communicate (maybe using visuals or gestures), and the moment you both laughed over a math joke. Then connect that to your desire to be a resource for others at Rutgers and your excitement for the collaborative Honors environment.
Here’s a possible excerpt: "Last winter, during a tutoring session at the library, I quietly slid scratch paper across the table to Fatima, a recent transfer student from Syria. Neither of us spoke the other’s language fluently, and our first attempts at communication resembled an elaborate game of Pictionary. By the end of the semester, not only had her algebra grades improved, but we had built code words and inside jokes—proof that community starts with patience and small efforts. At Rutgers Honors College, I want to foster these connections, especially for students who, like Fatima, are navigating new territory."
To stand out, focus on a moment of growth or a challenge you faced, and be honest about any uncertainties or learning you experienced. Avoid vague writing or just listing your accomplishments. If you made a difference, show how it changed you as well as those around you.
Ultimately, the best essays are personal, grounded in real experiences, and forward-looking—demonstrating how you’ll contribute to and benefit from the Rutgers Honors College community.
Readers are looking for authentic insights into your character and how you think. They care about concrete details (rather than broad platitudes), a clear sense of your voice, and evidence that you’ve reflected on what being part of the Honors College means. Specificity is key—write about a particular experience, belief, or aspiration rather than generic traits like "I’m hardworking."
For example, suppose the prompt asks about a time you contributed to community or overcame a challenge. Instead of generally saying you value diversity, you might write about an afternoon spent tutoring a classmate who recently immigrated and didn't speak much English. Describe your initial nerves, how you found ways to communicate (maybe using visuals or gestures), and the moment you both laughed over a math joke. Then connect that to your desire to be a resource for others at Rutgers and your excitement for the collaborative Honors environment.
Here’s a possible excerpt: "Last winter, during a tutoring session at the library, I quietly slid scratch paper across the table to Fatima, a recent transfer student from Syria. Neither of us spoke the other’s language fluently, and our first attempts at communication resembled an elaborate game of Pictionary. By the end of the semester, not only had her algebra grades improved, but we had built code words and inside jokes—proof that community starts with patience and small efforts. At Rutgers Honors College, I want to foster these connections, especially for students who, like Fatima, are navigating new territory."
To stand out, focus on a moment of growth or a challenge you faced, and be honest about any uncertainties or learning you experienced. Avoid vague writing or just listing your accomplishments. If you made a difference, show how it changed you as well as those around you.
Ultimately, the best essays are personal, grounded in real experiences, and forward-looking—demonstrating how you’ll contribute to and benefit from the Rutgers Honors College community.