Columbia’s supplements are daunting me. They’re known for being intellectual and reflective, and I'm not sure how to begin. Can anyone share how they connected their personal narrative with Columbia’s core values or academic culture in their essays?
Absolutely, the supplemental essays for schools like Columbia can indeed seem intimidating, but remember, these prompts are an opportunity for you to showcase aspects of yourself that aren't evident elsewhere in your application. Start by reflecting on the academic subjects or extracurricular activities that you're most passionate about. How have these experiences shaped your worldview?
Then, delve into Columbia's specific offerings - perhaps a particular class, research opportunity, or part of the Core Curriculum speaks to your interests. Draw connections between what excites you and what Columbia excels in offering. For example, if you're passionate about social justice, you might connect that to Columbia's Center for Justice and initiative like Beyond the Bars that you hope to get involved in to further your interests with the local NYC community.
Be genuine and concise. Admissions officers appreciate authenticity and the ability to communicate clearly and effectively. And lastly, remember to let your personality shine through. If you are a light-hearted person, don't be afraid to add some humor to your essay! Good luck!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.