How should I approach the Swarthmore College supplemental essays?

Great questions! Swarthmore’s supplemental essays can feel unique compared to other schools, and that’s intentional—the admissions committee truly wants to get a sense of whether you’ll thrive in their distinct, collaborative, and intellectually curious community.

When approaching Swarthmore’s supplements, research is definitely key. Spend some time exploring their website, reading about academic programs, student organizations, Quaker heritage, and the campus culture—anything you come across that sparks a genuine interest. Try to find a few aspects of Swarthmore that *really* resonate with you, whether it’s their close student-faculty relationships, open curriculum, or strong commitment to social responsibility.

For brainstorming, think about how your personal mission, interests, or values connect with Swarthmore’s culture. If you’re responding to the “Why Swarthmore?” prompt, go beyond general statements like "I want a small liberal arts college." Instead, get specific: maybe you’re excited about Swarthmore’s unique approach to Honors seminars or their support for activism. For example, a former student wrote about how Swarthmore's Peace Collection Library aligned with their interest in historical research and activism. That level of detail makes your answer stand out.

In terms of style: Swarthmore does value creativity and quirkiness, as long as it’s authentic to you. Don’t feel pressured to force humor or offbeat stories if that’s not your voice. But if you have a playful idea—a metaphor, an extended analogy, or a unique story—go for it, as long as it ties back to who you are and why Swarthmore matters to you. Storytelling can be powerful, especially if it highlights a specific moment that shaped your thinking or connected to Swarthmore’s values. For example, one applicant wrote about running a Dungeons & Dragons club as a metaphor for collaborative learning—tying it back directly to Swarthmore’s team-oriented academic approach.

However, straightforward academic answers can work, too, as long as you showcase what excites you intellectually and how Swarthmore’s programs relate. The key is specificity and honesty, not just reciting the course catalog.

To structure your essay, start with a hook or a moment that illustrates your interest (a brief story, question, or analogy), connect it to what you value, and then show why Swarthmore in particular is the right place for you. End with a forward-looking statement—how do you hope to grow, contribute, or learn at Swarthmore? That closes the loop nicely.

The best Swarthmore essays have a sense of intellectual energy and a clear "fit" with the school’s ethos. Be genuine and let your interests lead you, whether that’s with a touch of quirkiness or straightforward sincerity.