Should supplemental essays be creative?

Hi there! Working on my college applications and wondering, should I be creative with my supplemental essays or should I stick to a more formal tone? What's the best approach here? Thanks for any advice!

Hi! Great question. The tone and style of your supplemental essays largely depend on the prompt and the college you're applying to. Generally, it's a good idea to strike a balance between creative and formal. Here's a quick breakdown to help you decide:

1. Consider the prompt: If the prompt encourages creativity, such as "Invent a new holiday and explain how it's celebrated," or "Write a letter to your future roommate," it's a good opportunity to showcase your unique and original ideas while still being thoughtful and structured in your response.

2. Know the college: Research the culture and values of the college. Highly selective colleges with a reputation for valuing intellectual curiosity and creativity may appreciate a more creative approach. In contrast, schools with a more traditional or conservative atmosphere might prefer a formal tone.

3. Stay focused: Creativity should not come at the expense of answering the question. Always keep the prompt in mind and ensure that your writing is relevant and focused.

4. Be genuine: Be true to yourself and your authentic voice. Do not force creativity if it does not come naturally to you. Your essay should reflect your personality and values, whether that means being more creative or sticking to a formal tone.

Remember that, while creativity can make your supplemental essays more memorable and engaging, it's essential to stay on-topic and effectively communicate your intended message. Remember that your goal is to help admissions officers learn more about you and understand why you're a great fit for their college. Good luck with your applications!