What are some tips for writing the Smith College supplemental essay?

Great questions! Smith’s supplemental essay is your chance to show how you and the college are a great match—not just academically, but as a full person.

First, aim for balance in your response. Definitely mention what excites you about Smith’s STEM opportunities, like a specific research center (say, the Clark Science Center), the open curriculum, or unique programs such as the Praxis internship initiative. However, don’t stop at academic fit. Smith values community and engagement just as much.

It’s a smart move to include non-academic reasons you’re drawn to Smith. Mentioning the house system, for example, can be powerful—maybe living and learning in close-knit houses appeals to you because you value collaboration and friendship. If you connect this to something about yourself (for instance, having led a club or project that brought diverse people together), it can feel personal and genuine.

Campus culture is also important. Smith’s student body is known for activism, inclusivity, and leadership. If you have experience organizing around a cause or supporting women in STEM, explain how you’d build on that at Smith. Think of it like storytelling: show who you are, not just what you want to study.

Here’s a strong example approach: you might write about witnessing the impact of women mentors in your robotics club and how you plan to support other women in STEM at Smith through organizations like the Society of Women Engineers or by mentoring local girls in STEM.

In short, be specific about both what draws you and how you’ll add to campus life. Tie in your past experiences to what you’ll do at Smith—admissions officers love seeing a clear link. Be authentic, include a unique detail or tradition that truly resonates with you (maybe Mountain Day or your favorite aspect of house life), and make sure your passion for joining the Smith community comes through.

Last tip: Avoid laundry-listing; instead, weave a narrative that shows why Smith is a fit for both your goals and values. And always reread for clarity and conciseness—Smith’s word limit is strict, so make every word count!