How do you write an effective 'Why This College?' essay?
I'm starting to draft my 'Why this college?' essays, but I'm struggling to figure out what colleges are really looking for. I've read a bunch of advice online about avoiding generic statements, but it still feels tricky to make my answer feel personal and specific.
For example, I want to mention the great research programs and campus culture at some of my top choices, but doesn't everyone say that? How can I go beyond just listing things that sound impressive and actually show that I'm a good fit for the school?
Would love to hear how others have approached this part of the application. If you've already written your essay or went through this recently, what details did you focus on to make your response stand out? I’m just hoping for some tips so my essays aren’t too basic or cliché.
For example, I want to mention the great research programs and campus culture at some of my top choices, but doesn't everyone say that? How can I go beyond just listing things that sound impressive and actually show that I'm a good fit for the school?
Would love to hear how others have approached this part of the application. If you've already written your essay or went through this recently, what details did you focus on to make your response stand out? I’m just hoping for some tips so my essays aren’t too basic or cliché.
3 months ago
•
15 views
Camille L.
• 3 months ago
Advisor
The key to a standout 'Why This College?' essay is showing—not just telling—why you and the school are a great match. Admissions officers really want to see that you've done your homework, and that your reasons go far beyond surface-level facts or rankings.
Start by digging into specific programs, classes, professors, or opportunities that genuinely excite you. For example, instead of saying "I want to do research at your great biomedical facility," you could write, "As someone passionate about cancer immunotherapy, I was thrilled to read about Dr. Lin's recent publication in Nature Medicine. I hope to contribute to her research lab, especially the project exploring CAR-T cell therapies." This shows you've taken time to research and gives a strong, personal reason for your interest.
Try connecting your own experiences or goals to what the college offers. If you're interested in campus culture, mention particular traditions, student organizations, or events—and explain how they tie into your personality. For instance, "I was drawn to the annual Lantern Night at Barnard because as the founder of my own poetry reading series, I value intimate community rituals that celebrate student voice." That level of detail makes it clear you aren't copying and pasting the same paragraph for every school.
When I wrote my 'Why College X?' essay, I highlighted a conversation I had with a current student about a history seminar that doesn't exist anywhere else. I wrote about how that class fits my specific academic interests, and even tied in an essay I wrote last year that hit on similar themes.
Avoid vague praise like "prestigious faculty" or "vibrant campus life," which could describe almost any school. Instead, look for little details on the school's website, course catalogue, professors' bios, or student blogs. Sometimes, referencing a quirky club or a unique campus resource (like an art studio, makerspace, or urban farm) can make your essay memorable and genuine.
Ultimately, the best 'Why This College?' essays reveal not only why you want the school, but also what you’ll add to their community. If you can make that connection—using specific examples and tying them to your own passions—you’ll be well on your way.
Start by digging into specific programs, classes, professors, or opportunities that genuinely excite you. For example, instead of saying "I want to do research at your great biomedical facility," you could write, "As someone passionate about cancer immunotherapy, I was thrilled to read about Dr. Lin's recent publication in Nature Medicine. I hope to contribute to her research lab, especially the project exploring CAR-T cell therapies." This shows you've taken time to research and gives a strong, personal reason for your interest.
Try connecting your own experiences or goals to what the college offers. If you're interested in campus culture, mention particular traditions, student organizations, or events—and explain how they tie into your personality. For instance, "I was drawn to the annual Lantern Night at Barnard because as the founder of my own poetry reading series, I value intimate community rituals that celebrate student voice." That level of detail makes it clear you aren't copying and pasting the same paragraph for every school.
When I wrote my 'Why College X?' essay, I highlighted a conversation I had with a current student about a history seminar that doesn't exist anywhere else. I wrote about how that class fits my specific academic interests, and even tied in an essay I wrote last year that hit on similar themes.
Avoid vague praise like "prestigious faculty" or "vibrant campus life," which could describe almost any school. Instead, look for little details on the school's website, course catalogue, professors' bios, or student blogs. Sometimes, referencing a quirky club or a unique campus resource (like an art studio, makerspace, or urban farm) can make your essay memorable and genuine.
Ultimately, the best 'Why This College?' essays reveal not only why you want the school, but also what you’ll add to their community. If you can make that connection—using specific examples and tying them to your own passions—you’ll be well on your way.
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Camille L.
Nomadic
Stanford University, BAH in Urban Studies
Experience
5 years
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5.0 (4 reviews)