Applying to universities in the U.S.? Chances are, you’ve encountered the “Why School” supplement essay. This prompt appears in many applications, and it’s a very important one to get right. In this post, we’ll explore what the “Why School” essay is, what admissions officers are looking for, and how you can craft a standout response.
What’s a Super Supplement?
Many U.S. universities ask for supplemental essays in addition to the Common App personal statement. These supplements give admissions officers a chance to see more of your unique fit for their school. Among the most common and challenging of these is the “Why School” essay.
The “Why School” Supplement Essay: A Summary
This supplement requires you to explain why you want to attend a particular university. While it may seem simple at first glance, it requires deep thought and research. You’ll need to show not only that you’ve researched the school, but also how you’ll take advantage of the opportunities it offers and contribute to campus life.
What Admissions Officers Look for in the “Why School” Supplement
Finding Students that Fit
When reading “Why School” essays, admissions officers are trying to gauge whether you’re a good fit for their institution. They want to know if you understand the university’s values, culture, and academic offerings. Ultimately, they want to know whether you’ll thrive there. A generic essay won’t cut it, so you’ll need to show that you’ve done your research and have compelling reasons for applying to that specific school.
Important Components of Your “Why School” Supplement Essay
Detailed, Specific Knowledge: The 4 Cs
To write an exceptional “Why School” essay, focus on the 4 Cs:
- Campus: Talk about the campus environment. What excites you about it? Are there particular resources, such as labs, libraries, or extracurricular spaces, that draw you in? This could also be expanded to the city or town the campus is in. Is there room to engage with the surrounding community? How will you take advantage of that?
- Curriculum: Schools have different curricular structures. Take, for example Brown’s Open Curriculum, which allows total freedom in choosing electives outside one’s major, in comparison to Columbia’s core, which has classes all students are obliged to take. Think also about things like Consortiums, for instance the Claremont Consortium, and cross-registration–some schools let you take classes at nearby institutions, like Harvard and MIT. What curricular structures might work for you? Also discuss specific academic programs, departments, or courses that align with your interests. What will you study, and why does this school offer the best place for that?
- Classes: Go deeper and mention specific classes or professors that excite you. This level of extra detail shows that you’ve taken the time to really explore the curriculum in depth. It also shows your level of academic engagement.
- Culture: Schools have distinct cultures. Is the campus community collaborative or competitive? What social or extracurricular aspects appeal to you? How do you see yourself contributing to campus life with your own interests? Will you be joining a sports team, a cultural group? Imagine yourself at this university, and write about the ways in which you will fit yourself into its unique culture.
Why You Need to Do Your Research
The key to answering the “Why School” question well is research. Without a thorough understanding of the institution, it’s impossible to write a meaningful and detailed response that shows you to be a good fit for a school’s culture. Make sure to spend time exploring the school’s website, attending virtual tours, or talking to current students to gather all the information you need.
If there’s a college fair in your city or school, take the opportunity to speak to students and alumni, particularly about the university’s culture and student life.
IvyPrep US Admissions Consulting and Essay Support
If the prospect of writing the “Why School” essay is intimidating, reach out to us to explore options to access our expert essay writing support. Our consultants have years of experience helping students navigate the nuances of supplemental essays. We can guide you through the research process, help you develop your ideas, and ensure your essays stand out to admissions officers.
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