How should I approach Bowdoin's supplemental essay for the Common Good prompt?
I’ve been brainstorming ideas for Bowdoin’s supplemental essay, the one that asks about the Common Good, but I’m really stuck figuring out what they want to see. I get that the school puts a lot of emphasis on making a positive impact, but how personal is too personal?
Does anyone have advice on how to structure the essay or what kinds of experiences are best to share? For example, should I talk about a service project I led with my school’s environmental club, or is it better to focus on a time I supported a friend in a tough situation? Just trying to figure out what Bowdoin is hoping to learn about me here, and any tips would help!
Does anyone have advice on how to structure the essay or what kinds of experiences are best to share? For example, should I talk about a service project I led with my school’s environmental club, or is it better to focus on a time I supported a friend in a tough situation? Just trying to figure out what Bowdoin is hoping to learn about me here, and any tips would help!
3 weeks ago
•
8 views
Anonymous
3 weeks ago
You're on the right track by noticing how much Bowdoin values the idea of the Common Good—it really is central to their campus identity. The prompt is looking for more than just generic volunteering stories; they want to see how you personally define and contribute to the Common Good, and how that connects with your values and identity.
For structure, start by choosing a moment or experience that authentically reflects your understanding of the Common Good. This could be a big initiative (like leading the environmental club) or something small-scale but meaningful (like supporting a friend). Both can work—what matters is your insight and reflection on the impact. If you led a service project, don’t just list what you did. Dive into why you cared about the cause, what challenges you faced, and how it changed your perspective.
Sometimes the smaller, personal moments can stand out, especially if you can show empathy, growth, or an unconventional angle. For example: maybe you noticed a classmate struggling with language barriers and decided to start lunchtime language buddy meetups, reflecting both personal initiative and a broader effect. Or, if you helped a friend through a tough time, explain how that experience shaped your view of responsibility and the ripple effect support can have on a community.
A good approach is to weave in both the personal and communal. Bowdoin is interested in people who see themselves as part of something larger, but who also act from a place of authentic care. Use details and anecdotes to bring your story to life. Then, connect your experience to Bowdoin’s mission—maybe you’re motivated to join a campus group that aligns with your values, or your experience made you want to keep contributing to the Common Good in college.
Most importantly, don’t worry about being 'too personal'—as long as you’re comfortable sharing, personal insights show maturity and genuineness. The Common Good often starts from individual moments. Whenever possible, be specific—describe a particular challenge or turning point, and show how it clarified your sense of what serving the Common Good really means to you. And finally, leave a brief reflection on how you’ll bring this mindset to Bowdoin.
Example: ‘When I started a recycling initiative at my school, I thought I was just helping the environment, but the real impact was how it brought students and custodians together. We built a routine that sparked new friendships and volunteerism. I realized that the Common Good is about building connections, not just checking off service hours.’
For structure, start by choosing a moment or experience that authentically reflects your understanding of the Common Good. This could be a big initiative (like leading the environmental club) or something small-scale but meaningful (like supporting a friend). Both can work—what matters is your insight and reflection on the impact. If you led a service project, don’t just list what you did. Dive into why you cared about the cause, what challenges you faced, and how it changed your perspective.
Sometimes the smaller, personal moments can stand out, especially if you can show empathy, growth, or an unconventional angle. For example: maybe you noticed a classmate struggling with language barriers and decided to start lunchtime language buddy meetups, reflecting both personal initiative and a broader effect. Or, if you helped a friend through a tough time, explain how that experience shaped your view of responsibility and the ripple effect support can have on a community.
A good approach is to weave in both the personal and communal. Bowdoin is interested in people who see themselves as part of something larger, but who also act from a place of authentic care. Use details and anecdotes to bring your story to life. Then, connect your experience to Bowdoin’s mission—maybe you’re motivated to join a campus group that aligns with your values, or your experience made you want to keep contributing to the Common Good in college.
Most importantly, don’t worry about being 'too personal'—as long as you’re comfortable sharing, personal insights show maturity and genuineness. The Common Good often starts from individual moments. Whenever possible, be specific—describe a particular challenge or turning point, and show how it clarified your sense of what serving the Common Good really means to you. And finally, leave a brief reflection on how you’ll bring this mindset to Bowdoin.
Example: ‘When I started a recycling initiative at my school, I thought I was just helping the environment, but the real impact was how it brought students and custodians together. We built a routine that sparked new friendships and volunteerism. I realized that the Common Good is about building connections, not just checking off service hours.’
Your story matters — let’s make it shine
Our advisors have reviewed thousands of essays and can help you today.
