How should I approach the Williams College supplemental essay?

It’s normal to feel pressure with the Williams College supplement—the open-ended options can actually make it harder to know where to begin! Williams gives you several prompt choices, and you can even submit a past piece if it responds to their criteria. This flexibility means they really want to get a sense of your authentic voice and how you think, not just a list of achievements or a recap of your activities.

When choosing your topic, try to find a balance between academic interests and personal experiences by exploring moments where the two intersect. For instance, instead of just saying you love biology, maybe tell a story about how you used your interest in microbiomes to help a struggling community garden thrive. This kind of storytelling demonstrates your intellectual curiosity, initiative, and personal growth—qualities Williams values.

Williams appreciates clear, contemplative writing. They're less interested in flashy language and more drawn to sincere, thoughtful narratives. The most successful essays often zoom in on a very specific moment or conflict, bringing the reader inside your mind as you process or react. For example, one student wrote about a single afternoon spent translating for a relative at a clinic, unpacking layers of communication, trust, and family connection. Another chose the option to submit a creative work—a poem that revealed their playful but introspective approach to learning.

Avoid cliché topics (like sports injuries or just ‘working hard’), unless you have a truly unique angle or insight. Instead, aim for something only you could write. Maybe a quirky family tradition inspired your sense of humor, or a book you couldn't stand changed your perspective in an unexpected way. Those personal touches will stand out.

If you’re unsure if your topic is too generic, ask yourself: could my best friend tell immediately it was written by me? If not, dig a little deeper. Once you draft something, having someone read for tone and voice—not just grammar—can really help. If you want a more personal touch, feel free to share a section, and I can help you workshop it!

Remember, Williams is looking for intellectual depth, self-reflection, and a glimpse into who you are beyond your stats. Focus on being honest, specific, and a little bit vulnerable, and you’ll be on the right track.