How do you write a strong 'Why This Major?' essay?

A strong 'Why This Major?' essay should blend your personal journey with clear, well-researched connections to the college’s academic offerings. Your goal is to show the admissions reader not just that you’re passionate about chemical engineering, but why—what moments or experiences set you on this path—and how their specific program is the right fit for you.

Start your essay with a concise story or insight from your personal life that sparked your interest in chemical engineering. It’s totally okay if your inspiration came from your brother or a high school chemistry class—what matters is to make it personal and honest, and to focus on a moment that feels meaningful. For example, rather than just saying your brother tinkered with electronics, you might write, “When I watched my brother assemble his first homemade radio, I was captivated by the idea that we could rewire the world around us. This fascination pushed me to take apart an old toaster, desperate to understand what made it tick. That curiosity led me to my chemistry class, where I finally had a framework for how elements and reactions come together.”

Once you’ve anchored your essay in that personal motivation, bridge it to the college. Research the chemical engineering program at each school. Mention a specific course, lab opportunity, professor, or club you find exciting. For example: "I’m eager to work in Professor [X's] sustainable polymers lab, where research into biodegradable materials aligns with my passion for environmental solutions."

Balance is key. About 40-60% can be personal background and inspiration, and the rest should highlight the particular features at that school that suit your goals. Try to avoid sounding like you copied the website—focus on why those opportunities feel personal or exciting to you.

It’s also smart to briefly mention career goals, especially if those goals relate to the school’s resources. For example, "I hope to use my chemical engineering degree to develop cleaner manufacturing techniques. With the university’s Center for Clean Energy as a resource, I know I’ll gain hands-on experience in this area."

In short: lead with a specific personal experience, connect it to your academic interest, then show how the major at THAT school will help you grow and work toward your goals. That combination will make your essay both compelling and memorable.