Supplemental essays for Harvard

Hi! I'm working on my supplemental essays for Harvard, and I was wondering if anyone who got accepted could give me some tips or advice. How did you approach these essays, and how were you able to express your personality and interests effectively?

Hey there! While I'm not a Harvard admit myself, I can still share some useful advice and strategies for approaching Harvard's supplemental essays.

1. Tailor your essay to Harvard: Do your research on the university and specific programs or resources that genuinely interest you. Show that you’ve thought about your fit with the school and how you’ll take advantage of the opportunities offered at Harvard. Remember, the admissions committee wants to see that you're not just applying to Harvard for its prestigious name but because it's the right place for you to grow and flourish.

2. Focus on a unique aspect or story: Avoid cliches and instead, choose an authentic, personal topic that truly represents you. Harvard's optional essay, often referred to as the "freewrite" or "intellectual curiosity" essay, gives you the freedom to delve into whatever you're passionate about. You can share an anecdote about a hobby, an intellectual pursuit, or a personal experience that has shaped you.

3. Showcase depth: While the essay prompts may feel broad, it's essential to focus on a specific event, project, or aspect when writing your essays. By delving deep into one topic rather than touching on many, you'll be able to demonstrate your dedication and provide a richer and more thoughtful response.

4. Be genuine and authentic: Admissions committees can typically tell when an essay is overly polished or manufactured. Write in your own voice and be true to yourself. Share the emotions, reflections, and growth that are important to you. At the same time, you should ensure that your essay is still well-structured and has a clear focus.

5. Revise and proofread: Finally, make sure to spend ample time revising and proofreading your essays. A well-polished essay showcases your attention to detail and dedication to your application.

For example, if you're passionate about linguistics, you could discuss an independent research project you conducted that led to a new understanding of language acquisition. You could describe how you drew inspiration from Harvard's Linguistics Department and how you look forward to learning from its accomplished faculty members or participating in relevant extracurricular activities, such as the Harvard College Linguistics Review.

Remember, the key is to demonstrate your genuine interests, passions, and fit with Harvard. Best of luck with your essays!