Hey everyone, I'm applying to Brown University and they have an essay prompt asking why I want to attend their school specifically. I was wondering if any of you have any tips or suggestions for answering this question? What are some unique characteristics or aspects of Brown that I could highlight in my response?
It's important to focus on the specific aspects of Brown University that align with your interests and goals when writing the 'Why Brown' essay. Here are some unique characteristics and aspects of Brown that you could consider incorporating into your response:
1. Open Curriculum: Brown has a flexible, open curriculum that allows students to explore their academic interests without the constraints of core requirements. This freedom to shape your own academic path can be a central theme in your essay, especially if you have interdisciplinary academic goals or specific courses you'd like to take.
2. Collaborative Environment: Brown is known for its cooperative and non-competitive atmosphere among students. Emphasize your desire to learn from and work with your peers in a collaborative setting, and how this environment will help you grow personally and academically.
3. Research Opportunities: Brown offers various research opportunities across different departments and fields. If you have a strong interest in conducting research, mention specific research centers, labs, or professors you'd like to work with and how their work aligns with your interests.
4. The Brown-RISD Dual Degree Program: If you have a passion for both liberal arts and design, the Brown-RISD Dual Degree program could be an exciting option. This unique program allows students to receive a Bachelor of Arts (AB) from Brown and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) in five years. Discuss your creative interests and how this program would enable you to pursue them in tandem with an academic focus.
5. Focus on Diversity and Inclusion: Brown has numerous initiatives, programs, and spaces dedicated to diversity and inclusion. If this is something important to you, talk about your commitment to fostering an inclusive community and how you'd like to engage with these resources and organizations.
6. Study Abroad and International Opportunities: Brown offers various study abroad and international internship programs in different countries with the aim to enhance students' global perspectives. If you have an interest in experiencing diverse cultures and gaining international exposure, explain how these programs would contribute to your educational and personal development.
7. Campus Life and Clubs: Brown has a vibrant campus life with over 400 student-run clubs and organizations covering a wide range of interests. Mention specific clubs you're interested in joining and how you plan to contribute to and participate in these organizations during your time at Brown.
Remember to connect these unique aspects of Brown to your personal interests, goals, and experiences, and avoid generic-sounding statements. Showing a genuine understanding of the university's core values and demonstrating how attending Brown will help you achieve your goals is key to crafting a compelling 'Why Brown' essay.
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