WashU Supplemental Essays Advice?

Hey everyone! I'm working on my WashU application and was wondering if anyone had any tips for writing the supplemental essays. What aspects of the school and my interests should I focus on to make my application stand out? Thanks!

Hello! For your WashU supplemental essays, it's important to not only showcase your interests and passions but also demonstrate how those align with the opportunities offered at WashU. Here are some tips to help you craft a compelling response:

1. Research: Start by researching the specific aspects of WashU that align with your interests. This can include academic programs, research opportunities, clubs, community service opportunities, study abroad programs, or campus events. When you reference these in your essay, it shows that you've done your homework and you're genuinely interested in WashU.

2. Be specific: Instead of just mentioning that you appreciate the strong programs or beautiful campus, dive deeper into the specific offerings that make WashU the place where you believe you can grow both academically and personally. This helps admissions officers see the strong connection between you and the university.

3. Combine interests: Talk about how different aspects of your interests or academic pursuits can be combined at WashU. For example, if you're passionate about both biology and social justice, you could discuss your excitement about the opportunity to work at the Gephardt Institute for Civic and Community Engagement while also pursuing a major in Biology, weaving together your intersecting interests.

4. Share personal experiences: Use anecdotes or personal experiences to illustrate your points. This can help make your essay more engaging and show admissions officers how you've already been involved in activities related to your interests, which would continue at WashU.

5. Be genuine: College admissions officers can tell if you're just trying to impress them or if you genuinely connect with the university. Make sure that your excitement for WashU comes through in your writing and that you're authentic in showcasing who you are and what you have to offer.

6. Proofread and revise: After you've written your essay, take the time to proofread and revise it. Make sure your grammar, spelling, and punctuation are correct, and that your essay flows smoothly. Getting feedback from someone else, such as a teacher or parent, can also be helpful to make sure your essay is capturing the connection between your interests and WashU effectively.

By focusing on the specific aspects of WashU that align with your interests and passions, and by sharing personal experiences and genuine enthusiasm, your supplemental essays will help you stand out in the application process. Good luck!