What are some tips for writing a strong 'Why College' essay?

Writing a strong 'Why College' essay is all about showing the admissions team why you're a great fit for their school, and—just as importantly—why their school is a great fit for you. The goal is to avoid sounding generic or just regurgitating what’s on their website. Instead, focus on specific, personal reasons that connect your goals, interests, or experiences to what the college offers.

Start by identifying 2-3 aspects of the college that truly excite you. This might be a unique academic program, a course only they offer, a student club that aligns with your passions, research opportunities, or a particular approach to learning (for example, project-based classes or a tight-knit residential college system).

Take it a step further by making it personal. If you’re interested in a neuroscience major because you interned at a memory-care clinic and the college has an undergraduate neuroscience research group, explain that connection. You might write: "As someone who’s spent weekends organizing music therapy sessions for Alzheimer’s patients, I’m excited by [College’s] Cognitive Aging Lab—and hope to work under Professor Smith, whose research on memory is directly connected to my experiences and goals."

Go beyond academics by mentioning something that makes the campus culture appealing to you—maybe it’s a quirky tradition, a service-focused community, or the chance to combine multiple interests (like filmmaking and social activism) through specific student organizations. Show how you’ll contribute, not just what you’ll take. For example: “As co-founder of my school’s Mindfulness Club, I was delighted to learn about the guided meditation sessions held every Friday on the quad. I look forward to both participating in and eventually leading these gatherings to support campus well-being.”

Avoid just pulling copy from their website or listing generic traits like “renowned faculty” and “beautiful campus.” The more specific your details, the more authentic your essay will feel. If you're finding it hard to brainstorm, look through course catalogs, faculty pages, or student blogs for inspiration.

A strong 'Why College' essay will convince the reader you’ve done your homework and thought deeply about how you hope to grow at their school. Let your personal story shine through—admission officers want to see your genuine excitement and envision you thriving on their campus.