how to write vanderbilt scholarship essay

Vanderbilt University Merit Scholarship Essay Guide

In this Vanderbilt University merit scholarship essay guide, I will discuss some tips and tricks on how to respond to the 2020-2021 Vanderbilt University merit scholarship essays. Please keep in mind that you cannot apply to the Blair School of Music via the QuestBridge application. For more guidance on personal essays and the college application process in general, sign up for a monthly plan to work with an admissions coach 1-on-1.

For the Vanderbilt University Supplementary Essay Guide, click here .

Ingram Scholars Program

1. e. bronson ingram was known for his innovation in both the business world and through his philanthropic efforts. describe how you think innovation is best approached and how you have incorporated these principles into your own endeavors. in so doing, also describe how you will approach creating greater opportunities at the intersection of entrepreneurship and high impact philanthropy (250 to 500 words).

Part of the battle with this merit scholarship essay is that there are a lot of points to cover in 500 words or less. As you draft this essay, you should ensure that you are answering all three components of the prompt. The other part of the battle is understanding what “innovation” means to you. No one expects you to have found the cure to cancer or to have invented a device that stops global warming. Innovation can be finding a unique way to approach an everyday problem or identifying an issue and developing a method to address it.

As you write this essay, it would also be valuable to do some research on E. Bronson Ingram so you understand his approach to entrepreneurship and philanthropy. You do not necessarily need to include your findings; however, this research can help you understand characteristics that the Ingram Scholars Program values at Vanderbilt University.

2. Explore what you think it means for individuals AND businesses to, “serve the common good.” How might these commitments inform your personal career aspirations? (250 to 500 words)

When you explain your perspective on how both individuals and businesses should serve the common good, I recommend demonstrating your position through examples rather than a series of statements.

When you discuss the individual component, share an example of how you have demonstrated your belief throughout your own experiences.

When you discuss the business component, perhaps include an example of a specific company that showcases your position. This can then lead you into a discussion of your career goals. You don’t have to know exactly what you want to do; however, you can discuss characteristics you value in your future career beyond Vanderbilt University.

3. Describe a civic/community service project in which you have been involved that you believe may be scaled to greater benefit. In so doing, focus primarily on how that scaling could be achieved. (250 to 500 words)

With this prompt, briefly discuss the premise of your project while focusing on three or four characteristics that are vital for scaling the project to yield greater benefit. Depending on the project at hand, characteristics may include (but are not limited to) improving effectiveness, efficiency, and transmission to individuals. By focusing on a few characteristics, you have more space to better communicate how the scaling should be approached, while showcasing what you think is important to focus on when attempting to achieve more benefit.

Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship

Answer only one. If you are applying to more than one school, answer the question for your first-choice school only.

1. For applicants to the School of Engineering, Peabody College of Education and Human Development, and Blair School of Music: Recognizing that you have applied to a focused area of study, please comment on the reasons you are interested in your chosen academic program. In this context, discuss personal experiences, goals, and interests that relate to your choice of major. Please limit your response to 500 words.

The key to answering this scholarship essay prompt is to simply share the journey (past, present, and future) that led you to apply to the school of your choice. Since you are applying to a specific school, the admission committee just wants to make sure you have thoroughly thought about your decision.

To strengthen your essay, you can include specific information on aspects of Vanderbilt’s programs that interest you. However, do not only focus only on what Vanderbilt University can do for you. Use your journey and perspective to communicate how you can add to the community as well.

2. For applicants to the College of Arts and Science: The College of Arts and Science is a liberal arts school committed to introducing every student to a broad range of subjects in the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. How will you embrace the breadth of courses offered by the College of Arts and Science? How will this fit into your academic journey or life’s passions? Please limit your response to 500 words.

The best way to approach this merit scholarship essay is to get familiar with the broad range of classes that the Vanderbilt University College of Arts and Science has to offer. Based on your current interests and academic goals, it is valuable to find specific classes that could potentially support your exploration. For example, you may be a pre-medical student that plans to major in Biology and take a majority of classes in natural sciences, however, you can find classes in both social sciences and humanities that will help you grow as a future medical professional.

Chancellor’s Scholarship program

1. create a chart listing activities in which you have participated or actions you have taken that show your commitment to building a strong high school community by bridging gaps between economically, socially, and racially diverse groups. for each listing, please include the following information: activity, role, responsibilities, years of involvement, hours spent on project..

As stated in the essay prompt, this is a simple chart listing your activities. Include only the activities related to the mission of the scholarship. Your complete activity chart from your admission file is part of the review.

2. The values promoted by the Chancellor’s Scholarship are leadership, scholarship, diversity, and citizenship. Please describe how one of your activities from the list above has contributed to your understanding of these values. Please limit your response to 500 words.

By now, you’ve probably noticed that I’ve been emphasizing sharing stories and examples rather than broad statements. A story better communicates your understanding and development, especially of the four values discussed in this prompt. You may not have the word count to share four different stories to address each value independently. Instead, you can share one or two anecdotes, then briefly highlight how they showcase your interpretation of these values.

I would also do some research on the Chancellor’s Scholarship itself in order to determine why these four values are important and to better grasp the purpose of this merit scholarship essay.

For the next two merit scholarships, you are encouraged to also submit the application for Cornelius Vanderbilt merit scholarship to ensure consideration.

Curb Leadership Scholarship

1. tell a story using a collection of 7 items that demonstrate how you have combined your creativity, entrepreneurship, and leadership talents to create a positive contribution to your family, school, or community. you may include in your document additional links or images that demonstrate creativity in action. please limit your response to 2,500 words or less..

While this merit scholarship essay emphasizes creativity, a good thing to keep in mind is that your 7 items do not need to be special or complex contraptions. They can be everyday objects or symbols, ones that can help communicate your story of positive contribution. Furthermore, the prompt says to limit your response to 2,500 words; however, you are not obligated to use all that space.

Fred Russel-Grantland Rice Scholarship

1. please explain how you plan to use your vanderbilt experience to develop your anticipated career in sports journalism. include no more than 10 published samples of your work within your document. (no word count included).

Similar to the Cornelius Vanderbilt merit scholarship essay prompts, it is important to do research on the Vanderbilt experience (academics, extracurricular activities, special programs, etc.) to guide your response. With the opportunity to share samples of your own work, think about how your previous experiences can help to enhance your experience at Vanderbilt University.

This Vanderbilt University Merit Scholarship essay guide was written by Rashmi Bharadwaj , Vanderbilt University ‘21. If you want to get help writing your Vanderbilt application essays or Vanderbilt University merit scholarship essays from Rashmi or other CollegeAdvisor.com Admissions Experts , register with CollegeAdvisor.com today.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 5 tips for writing a stellar vanderbilt supplement essay.

College Essays

Vanderbilt is one of the United States' highest-ranked colleges. With an acceptance rate of just 7 percent, it's ranked as extremely competitive . It's no surprise—Vanderbilt is known for having a wealth of appealing programs, including its school of medicine, the Peabody College of Education and Human Development, and Blair School of Music.

Because it's extremely competitive, you'll need to set yourself apart as a prospective student . That doesn't mean just your grades and impressive extracurriculars; it also means writing a killer essay to go along with your application.

In this guide, we'll tell you everything you need to know about Vanderbilt's supplemental essay, including some ideal topics, some pitfalls to avoid, and even some analysis of past Vanderbilt essays that have worked.

Feature Image: Dansan4444 /Wikimedia Commons

The Vanderbilt Supplement Basics

Vanderbilt's application is fairly straightforward. They accept multiple application formats, including both the Common and Coalition Applications, as well as Questbridge.

What application you use is up to you. There are many reasons to choose one or the other , but regardless of which application you pick, you'll still be writing just one supplemental essay prompt from Vanderbilt. Choose whichever application works best for you.

In addition to the essays required for your Common, Coalition, or Questbridge Application, Vanderbilt requires one supplemental essay. There are two promp ts to choose from; you’ll select one to respond to in a short answer essay of no more than 250 words.

However, having just one supplemental essay means that you'll need to put a lot of attention into making your essay as good as it can be. You only have one chance to prove yourself in your essay, so make it count!

What Are the Vanderbilt Supplement Essay Prompts?

Vanderbilt has two prompts for their supplemental essay. You’ll be asked to select one and respond to it in 250 words or less . The prompts are as follows: 

Vanderbilt University values learning through contrasting points of view. We understand that our differences, and our respect for alternative views and voices, are our greatest source of strength. Please reflect on conversations you’ve had with people who have expressed viewpoints different from your own. How did these conversations/experiences influence you? Vanderbilt offers a community where students find balance between their academic and social experiences. Please briefly elaborate on how one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences has influenced you.

Each prompt asks you to describe and reflect on a different aspect of your experiences and values, so we’ll break down how to answer them individually.

Supplemental Prompt #1: Diversity

Vanderbilt University values learning through contrasting points of view. We understand that our differences, and our respect for alternative views and voices, are our greatest source of strength. Please reflect on conversations you’ve had with people who have expressed viewpoints different from your own. How did these conversations/experiences influence you?

In this prompt, Vanderbilt is asking you to describe how you interact with and learn from people who are different from yourself . College campuses are diverse communities filled with people of different races, ethnicities, nationalities, and religious and political beliefs. This essay is your chance to show Vanderbilt that you’re the kind of student who’s open to learning from and with people from many different backgrounds–and that you’ll be kind and compassionate in the process. 

To answer this question, think of a specific conversation (or series of conversations) you’ve had with a person or group who expressed views that are different from your own. You’ll want to tell a compelling story about the experience, so try to remember details like how the conversation started, why the people involved felt invested in the conversation, what the outcome was, and, most importantly, how you were influenced by the conversation. 

Rather than giving a play-by-play, “they said/I said” of the conversation, focus on describing how you and the other people involved expressed yourselves and treated each other . Did you have a shouting match in the hallway at school, then apologize later because you realized that yelling isn’t a good way to express your views? Did you have a heartfelt, tearful conversation wherein you finally came to understand someone you’ve been at odds with for years? And most important of all, how did you come to these realizations, and how have they affected who you are and how you treat people who are different from you today? 

Remember to keep your essay focused on the people involved in the conversation , how you treated each other, and how you were affected by the interaction . This essay isn’t the place to harp on how you were right and you totally owned your opponent with your awesome debate skills. Instead, Vanderbilt wants to see that you can engage civilly and empathetically with people who are different from you –and that you’re open to learning new things from others. After all, learning and growing with people from different backgrounds is a key part of the college experience. 

Supplemental Prompt #2: Extracurricular Activities

Vanderbilt offers a community where students find balance between their academic and social experiences. Please briefly elaborate on how one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences has influenced you.

The question is straightforward—Vanderbilt is asking you to discuss one of your extracurriculars in depth. This doesn't just demonstrate to the admissions office that you're dedicated to your interest, but also that you have passions outside of school. Vanderbilt wants to know that you'll bring something besides academics to campus, and this is the space to tell them about it.

Keep in mind that Vanderbilt isn't looking for a list of activities or just a short discussion of one of your extracurriculars. They specifically ask for one, but you have 250 words to cover—which means you should spend some time unpacking not just the activity itself, but why you do it and why it matters to you. Be thoughtful; really think about your activities and why you do them beyond that they look good on your college application.

Don't just pick the extracurricular activity that you think Vanderbilt would want to hear about. If you're a champion Mathlete but you really feel fulfilled when you're making short films with your friends over the weekend, you should be writing about the short films. If your short film was played at a local film festival but you find more meaning in the time you spend knitting, write about knitting!

It's not about being impressive here. Plenty of other applicants will be discussing their charity work or science team victories. Use this space to discuss yourself, and why the things you do matter to you. If the most impressive thing in your repertoire and the thing that's most personally meaningful line up, great! But don't feel like you can only write about things like academic success, leadership roles, or entrepreneurship. Write about what's meaningful to you and Vanderbilt will see your personality—which is really what they're looking for—shine through.

Vanderbilt Essays That Worked: Analysis

To give you a sense of what an effective Vanderbilt supplemental essay looks like, we tracked down an example of a successful Vanderbilt essay.

Keep in mind that this is a response to an older prompt. However, it still gives you a good idea of what admissions counselors are looking for in a thoughtful response. Consider this essay from an admitted Vanderbilt student:

Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (150-400 words). While all my extracurricular activities have helped me shape my values, there is one in particular I have enjoyed the most: picking tangerines from my grandmother’s orchard. Picking tangerines was often to me simply a burden. I had to wake up at six every Saturday and drive fifty miles to help my grandmother reap good tangerines. On the whole ride I would think to myself: I would rather be reading poetry and ponder upon ways to change the world. As far as I was concerned, reaping tangerines was not going to help me do so. The orchard belonged to my grandmother, who to save money had to “hire” me and my mom. There was no wage; the only working benefit was being able to taste a few fresh tangerines for free. At age thirteen, such benefit was enough. At seventeen, I was not so sure if it was. Working at the orchard usually involved scratches, itching, worms, climbing up the ladder, getting hurt, and demanding, long hours of physical labor. But as I worked through the years with tangerines, I began to recognize all the beauty my labor had. Everything in the orchard began telling their own stories. A tiny, pruned tree took pride in its small fruition, all the while a chunky tree demanded attention for its crooked children. Their offspring–tangerines–told by their taste who their trees were; some of them edgy, some of them warm, and some of them implicitly angry. Bugs would tell me which tree needs my help. No tree is without a hope. Within a few days of assistance, all the trees fought back those tiny enemies and always claimed victory. They became ever more proud, stronger, and complete. Enemies came back; but this time the trees didn’t need my help. Some tangerines would go bad–in extreme cases would give up under negligence. We grieve. But we simply carry on. We learn to proceed more carefully, and we let go. The orchard is for me a story of life–human life. It makes all the complications of our lives more simple, easier to grasp, and more available at my tongue, hands and feet. So as of right now, my Saturday is always booked for the orchard. I hope by next year this time around, however, my orchard will be at Vanderbilt.

This essay was successful--the applicant was accepted at Vanderbilt! The fact that it was successful shows you that it contains features that Vanderbilt likes to see.

The writer of this essay discusses the unconventional “education” they received while working in their grandmother’s tangerine orchard. This topic is striking because it’s an extracurricular/work experience that few other applicants have likely had. The applicant’s creative interpretation of “extracurricular activities or work experience” from the prompt makes their essay stand out from others that discuss more common experiences.

Not everybody had this same experience, but that doesn't mean that you can't use some of the same ideas in your own work. The writer draws a clear line between their experience working the orchard and the person they are now—you could do a similar thing by connecting the person you are with the activity you've chosen to write about. What have you learned about yourself because of what you do?

The writer is also able to connect what they learned through working the orchard to the kind of student they will be at Vanderbilt. By drawing an analogy between the tangerine trees and the challenges we go through in life, the applicant conveys their core values. More importantly, they write about where those values come from—something you could easily do by referencing the importance of the activity you choose.

What's most important to take away from this essay is the way that the writer connects the experience of working the orchard to the person they became. No matter what your education was or what activity you choose to write about, you can do a similar thing in your own essay!

5 Key Tips for Writing Your Vanderbilt Essay

Vanderbilt is a prestigious school, but there are some essay standards that hold true no matter where you're applying . Follow these steps to write an essay that's sure to impress!

#1: Start Writing

Starting is the step that sounds the easiest, but it's actually the hardest. No matter what you have to do to start writing, whether it's freewriting, brainstorming, or just pumping out a first draft as fast as you can, you need to do it. At this point, don't worry about quality or being impressive. Just get words down on paper so that you can edit them into shape later— if you spend too much time worrying about starting with a perfect beginning, you'll never make it past that point.

Step two is when you can start worrying about quality. Read your essay aloud and see if you can spot problems with word choice and flow. If you're struggling to read it, change words and add punctuation as necessary.

Also think about your overall point. Does it make sense? Are you able to trace your logic all the way through without a problem? If not, find ways to connect your thoughts from beginning to end.

Be thorough in cutting extraneous words. 250 words isn't a lot, and you'll want to make sure you're making your essay count by picking vibrant, active verbs and clear language. Don't worry about being flowery or busting out the thesaurus, but do be sure that your wording doesn't feel tired or dull.

#3: Seek Feedback

One of the best ways to find holes in your logic or other issues in your essay is to get others to give you feedback. Find people who want to see you succeed, but preferably not those who aren't going to give you criticism if you need it. Teachers and other mentors are a good choice, if they're available.

Don't feel like you have to use every piece of feedback you receive, but do consider all of it. Your essay should always be your own work, so try to rephrase suggestions in your own words or rewrite confusing passages how you would write them, not how others suggest.

#4: Take a Break

With deadlines looming and other essays to write, it may be tempting to just rush through after getting feedback and fix everything. But take some time away from your essay, focusing on other college application duties or on other things entirely. Anywhere from a couple days to weeks to months can be good for improving your essay, though do leave yourself time to revise.

Taking a break lets your mind forget what you've already written, so that when you come back to revise you do so with fresh eyes. This way, you can see holes in your logic or places where your language isn't as tight as it could be. You'll never be able to completely shed your attachment to your essay, but spending some time away from it can give you a whole new outlook on your work!

Now that you've had some time away and you have notes to incorporate, it's time to revise. Revision can be something you do multiple times, combing through your essay for errors and places to strengthen it, but eventually you are going to have to turn it in. Don't get caught up in perfection—focus on making your essay the best you can. Check it for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors to be sure it's clean and easy to read, and send it off!

What's Next?

Starting your essay is often the hardest part. If you're unsure where to begin, check out this guide to starting a college essay perfectly , and don't be afraid to just dive right in!

A good essay is just one part of a successful Vanderbilt application . If you want to really wow the admissions office, be sure your grades and test scores are up to snuff, too!

Vanderbilt University may not be an Ivy League school, but that doesn't mean your application can't be Ivy League-ready. Use these tips for getting into Harvard to shape your college application, and you'll have no problem getting into any school you choose!

Melissa Brinks graduated from the University of Washington in 2014 with a Bachelor's in English with a creative writing emphasis. She has spent several years tutoring K-12 students in many subjects, including in SAT prep, to help them prepare for their college education.

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How to Ace the 2023-2024 Vanderbilt Supplemental Essay

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Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

Vanderbilt University is a very competitive private school with a 7% acceptance rate . If you hope to gain acceptance into this top-tier school, you must have an exceptional application. Do not underestimate the importance of a stand-out Vanderbilt supplemental essay!

Let’s break down Vanderbilt’s prompt and how to craft a response that’s sure to impress. 

Also see: How to write an essay about yourself

What to expect from the Vanderbilt supplemental essay prompt

Vanderbilt University expects applicants to respond to one personal essay prompt and respond to one short answer question. However, do not worry because you actually only need to write one response for Vanderbilt! The personal essay they require of students is the Common Application or Coalition personal essay so there is no need to write anything additional for Vanderbilt’s personal essay requirement. 

There are two short answer questions you can choose from and only one needs to be answered. Regardless of which essay choice you choose, they need to be answered in approximately 250 words . 

Short answer choice #1

“Vanderbilt University values learning through contrasting points of view. We understand that our differences, and our respect for alternative views and voices, are our greatest source of strength. Please reflect on conversations you’ve had with people who have expressed viewpoints different from your own. How did these conversations/experiences influence you? (250 words)”

Try and think of a time in which someone had a different perspective on a topic you discussed or argued. Write about this conversation by detailing a narrative of what exactly the conversation was about. Describe your thoughts and feelings about the conversation and how it was resolved (if it was!). 

It does not have to be a life-changing argument about a controversial topic. Rather, it can be just a discussion in which someone has expressed viewpoints that differ from your own. 

Be careful not to focus too much on the negatives of this experience such as negative emotions towards the other person or group but rather you should discuss your feelings objectively. 

Once you have described this conversation and the admissions officer now has context, it is important to focus on how you dealt with this conversation and what you learned from it. Describe your emotions during this conversation and what you might have done differently if given the opportunity. 

Ultimately, Vanderbilt doesn’t want to hear you attack and berate someone for their differing perspective, rather they want to see that future Vanderbilt students understand that everyone has diverse experiences and perspectives. Use this essay as an opportunity to highlight how you are able to learn from and work with others even if they have different beliefs. Additionally, describe how you would use what you have learned from this experience to better your time at Vanderbilt. 

Questions to consider: 

• How did this conversation impact how you will communicate with others in the future? 
• What did you learn from this experience? 
• What will you do differently at Vanderbilt? 

Short answer choice #2

“Vanderbilt offers a community where students find balance between their academic and social experiences. Please briefly elaborate on how one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences has influenced you. (250 words)”

Unlike some schools’ intimidatingly broad prompts, this is as straightforward as it gets. Vanderbilt wants you to describe a particularly meaningful involvement you’ve had. However, it can be tricky when more than one engagement comes to mind. 

A good way to start is by looking at the Activities section on your Common Application. Highlight the experiences that have been most impactful to you. Jot down what you enjoy about each one and what they’ve taught you. Describe any anecdotes that you associate with them. Be sure to highlight progression throughout your participation in this activity, such as being elected to a leadership position. 

Since this is the only supplemental you will be responding to, be strategic with which activity you choose. If your intended major is computer science, it may be wise to discuss a related experience. You could describe the robotics club you were a member of in high school. It would be a great time to flex any awards you received at a robotics competition, too. 

On the other hand, you may want to showcase a different side of your personality that speaks more about your character. For example, discussing a volunteer experience that inspired a cause you now champion would also be a great avenue. 

Above all, pick an activity that is special to you, not what you think admissions wants to hear. Writing what you find important about your background will come across sincerely and ensure your voice can shine through. 

After you have chosen the perfect activity or work experience to write about, make sure you focus on how it has influenced you. Has this activity become a staple in your life? Do you hope to pursue this activity at Vanderbilt? Has this experience helped you realize what you want to do in your life? 

Ultimately make sure you are detailing an extracurricular activity or work experience that means something great to you and has influenced you in any way. 

Questions to consider:  

• Did you hold a job that solidified why you want to pursue your intended career path? 
• Has one of your hobbies taught you a new skill you cherish? Or allowed you to find community? 
• What has devoting much of your K-12 life to playing a sport instilled in you?

Next steps for students

After our deep-dive on the Vanderbilt supplemental, we hope your ideas are flowing. Get your thoughts out and don’t be afraid of a rough first draft. You can revise for writing quality and word count later, so get started!

Additional resources

As you apply to colleges, there are a lot of decisions to make in order to ensure you end up at the right school for you. Luckily, we can help you make them! Check out our guide on what looks good on college applications , how many schools to apply to , how to find safety, reach, and match schools , and how to schedule college visits . We can also help you fill out the Common App Additional Information Section and offer you an inside view of what happens inside an admissions office .

Finally, once you get your admissions decisions back, we can help you narrow down your choices. Try out our guide to making a college comparison spreadsheet , how to interpret your financial aid award letters , and how to appeal for more financial aid . We can also help clarify the differences between public and private schools and offer you some insight into making your final choice of a college . Good luck on your educational journey, and don’t forget to apply for all the scholarships you are eligible for!

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How to Write the Vanderbilt University Supplemental Essay 2017-2018

We’ve updated this guide for 2018-2019 !

Located in the midtown area of Nashville, TN, Vanderbilt University is one of the country’s premier private research universities. Founded by business magnate Cornelius Vanderbilt in 1873, the university is one of the oldest in the country and one of the most selective with an overall acceptance rate of 10.7% for the class of 2021.

There are three undergraduate colleges: the College of Arts & Sciences, Peabody College, and the School of Engineering. Known as the “Ivy of the South,” Vanderbilt’s location in Music City, its renowned sports programs, and its high quality of life make this school a very popular choice for high-achieving students all over the world. To help make you an extraordinary candidate, CollegeVine is here to provide some key tips to strengthen your supplemental essay.

Vanderbilt only has one supplemental prompt — so your essay needs to be great!

Want to learn what Vanderbilt University will actually cost you based on your income? And how long your application to the school should take?  Here’s what every student considering Vanderbilt University needs to know.

Vanderbilt University Application Essay Prompt

Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (400 words).

This common question seems to demand a simple, straightforward response. However, since this is Vanderbilt’s only supplement, it is important that your response illustrates your character and personality. Treat this prompt in the same manner that you would treat a more creative one. Use the same writing skills that you used in your common application: show don’t tell, vivid figurative language, detailed narration, etc.

Step 1: Choose the extracurricular.

Any activity that has mentally or physically changed your perspective on life will work, but the best ones are those that you’ve devoted a lot of time and effort to, and are preferably related to the theme of your application: surmounting challenges, learning to be a team player, adjusting to new environments, etc. However, your supplement does not have to directly connect to your major or your common application essay.

For example, if you’re planning to study biology on the pre-medicine track and your common application essay was about how volunteering at a hospital opened your eyes to the healthcare situation in this country, your supplement does not have to also be about something medicine-related. Perhaps it could be an artistic endeavor such as painting or photography that opened your mind to abstract thought and creative expression. In fact, it would add flavor to your candidacy if through this prompt, you can demonstrate your depth in multiple fields .

Notice how although medicine and art are very different, they both support the idea that you are an open-minded student who relishes the opportunity to look at and change the world with different perspectives.

Secondly, your activity does not have to be something that is seen as “prestigious” or something in which you’ve won many awards. Choosing something that you actually care about as opposed to an activity you participated in merely for awards will often lead to a more moving essay. If you’re a championship debater but your true passion is sailing in the summertime, a well-crafted essay about sailing and how it has served as your mind’s escape from this chaotic world would show the admissions team a relatable, worldly side of you apart from the high-achieving academic side that your activities and achievements list already demonstrate.

Keep in mind that this does not mean that you have to choose an out-of-the-box activity. You simply have to convey a common experience in an emotionally engaging way.

Step 2: Decide how you want to start your essay.

Instead of a paragraph describing what you do, you could use a tipping point in your journey to lead the discussion of the activity’s influence on you.

Weak example: In high school, I participated in model congress. It was very difficult for me at first, because I am not a great public speaker and don’t know much about politics. However, after a lot of research and many unimpressive performances at tournaments, I finally was able to overcome this at the Yale Model Congress tournament in my junior year where I was awarded best delegate after a speech in a full session of over a hundred students about environmental regulations, which I am very passionate about.

Stronger example: “ DECORUM! ” A hush falls over the room with the sound of the gavel pounding against the desk. “Speakers for a two-minute speech in negation,” the chairman of our committee demands, looking out toward the hundreds of students dressed in Western business attire with their placards held high in the air. Mine meekly joins them.

“Senator Smith?” The chairman points the gavel directly at me and my face grows hot under the realization that I will have to give a speech in front of hundreds of more talented, better-spoken peers. When I arrive at the podium, I thumb the engraving that reads “Yale Model Congress 2016” and open my mouth. No sound comes out so I clear my throat twice.

“Senator Jones,” I start out weakly. “This proposed piece of legislation reminds me of my aunt’s chihuahua. All bark, no bite.” Scattered bouts of laughter erupt in the room. Subtle attempt at humor, check. “ We all want to protect our environment, but this bill provides very little specifics, and the ones provided are a mere slap on the wrist for the huge corporations that pollute our rivers, lakes, air, and environment.”

You can clearly see how the beginnings of the two different essays differ in sentence structure, use of diction, imagery, and altogether effectiveness of displaying character and writing skills. Be careful to not go overboard with flowery language or fluff though; a 400-word limit requires you to be concise.

Your essay does not have to begin this way; you can start with a memory, a detailed description of an object or event you have built, or an excerpt of a speech or story you’ve penned. You have a lot of creative jurisdiction here, but the most important component to an introduction is the captivation of your audience.

Note: The stronger example weaved two different passions into one essay (model congress and environment conservation). You can definitely do this and it may lead to a stronger supplement, but be wary of trying to cram multiple unrelated extracurriculars into one essay. It will distract the reader from your message.

Step 3: Flesh out the idea that you’ve introduced.

Using the same writing skills, elaborate on why you chose to write about this activity. If woodwork in your basement was a peaceful way for you to spend quality time with your siblings, show your reader why family time is priceless to you.

Away from the banging on the bathroom door on weekday mornings, the loud thumps of feet rushing down the stairs to catch the bus, and the occasional stress-induced yelling match, the soft hum of the sander traversing the piece of wood in our basement on Saturday mornings was my solace. It was the only time during the week that I saw my sister crack a smile.

You can also use this area to include a few bragging points. If you founded a club or an organization that had grown in membership size, you can point out how the number of people who showed up to a meeting was overwhelming and further motivated you because you didn’t want to let them down. If you’ve won several awards, you could point out that the trophies did not compare to the process, as even before you started winning, you have pursued the activity for six years.

For example:

It wasn’t just about the teary eyes after I’d finished a sonnet, or the shiny trophy that exclaimed ‘Youth Poet Laureate 2016.’ It was about imbuing meaning into the abstract shapes we call ‘words’ on a page. It was about the inexplicable smile that props up my cheeks when someone else understands all my emotions without me having spoken a word, just by reading ink on a page. It was about being understood.

This step is the most important in revealing your character, so make sure you dedicate adequate space and time (more than 200 words).

Step 4: Relate this activity to how it has prepared you to…

After you’ve figured out what you want to write about and how you want to style your essay, the next step is to relate this activity to how it has prepared you to pay it forward in college and beyond.

Although the prompt only explicitly asks for a description of your extracurricular, the true purpose of the supplement is to see what kind of a student you would be at Vanderbilt. Therefore, it’s important to include this element as a form of reflection on how your activity has impacted you.

For example, if you participated in a cultural interest-based club in high school, you can discuss your yearning to be exposed to more cultures that are represented in your community, cultures that are present at Vanderbilt University due to its diverse student body. This is also a great spot to conclude by relating back to elements of your application theme, such as a change in attitude toward social responsibility.

We hope this guide has made the essay writing process a little easier!

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How To Write The Vanderbilt Supplemental Essay + Examples

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 4/25/24

If you need help writing the Vanderbilt supplemental essay, read this guide to learn everything you need to know about it, including essay prompts and examples! 

You may feel pressured before applying because of Vanderbilt’s competitive applicant pool. Don’t worry; everyone must start somewhere. If you need more assistance, read our comprehensive guide to getting into Vanderbilt University . 

As you start building your college list , you must decide what you look for in a school. You must balance the college application process well and spend enough time on each school. If Vanderbilt is on your college list, read this article to learn how to write the Vanderbilt supplemental essay. 

We will break down the question, share tips on answering the prompts, and provide examples of successful essays.

Vanderbilt University Supplemental Essay Prompts 2023-2024

In addition to the essay requirements for the Common, Coalition, and QuestBridge Apps, Vanderbilt has one required supplemental essay. Having to write one essay has its benefits and disadvantages. You can focus on your response and make it as excellent as possible. However, you may prefer to have more options to consider before writing.

The following prompts can be found on the Vanderbilt admissions page .

“Vanderbilt University values learning through contrasting points of view. We understand that our differences, and our respect for alternative views and voices, are our greatest source of strength. Please reflect on conversations you’ve had with people who have expressed viewpoints different from your own. How did these conversations/experiences influence you?”

“Vanderbilt offers a community where students find balance between their academic and social experiences. Please briefly elaborate on how one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences has influenced you.”

Both of these supplemental essay prompts have a 250-word limit. Make sure you choose the essay prompts you know you can answer well! 

How to Write Each Essay Prompt For Vanderbilt University

Here, we’ll cover how to write each essay prompt for Vanderbilt University. 

How to Write Vanderbilt University Supplemental Essay #1 + Analysis and Tips

Vanderbilt University prompt #1 : “Vanderbilt University values learning through contrasting points of view. We understand that our differences, and our respect for alternative views and voices, are our greatest source of strength. Please reflect on conversations you’ve had with people who have expressed viewpoints different from your own. How did these conversations/experiences influence you?” 

Analysis of prompt #1 : This prompt wants you to reflect on conversations you’ve had with people who have expressed viewpoints different from yours. The prompt is looking at how you handle discussions with people with different viewpoints. 

This prompt can also be considered a diversity essay, which Vanderbilt includes because the school values all walks of life. 

Here are some tips to help you write this prompt:

1. Tip #1: Choose a Conversation : To choose the best conversation to talk about in your essay, ask yourself the following questions:

• What are my beliefs and values?
• How do others respond to these beliefs?
• What is one belief I have that others contest or oppose?
• How has this belief changed over time?
• Has anyone influenced this belief? 
• What points of the opposition can I agree with?
• Why is it important to discuss differing views on things?

Remember, you aren’t simply relaying a conversation with a friend to the committee. You’re explaining how you respond to opposing views, demonstrate respect for differences, and, most importantly, how you grow because of them! 

2. Tip #2: Identify the Different Viewpoints : Clearly explain the contrasting viewpoints you encountered. Highlight the key differences between the viewpoints without judgment. You'll want to convey your ability to engage with diverse perspectives and how those interactions have shaped your thinking.

3. Tip #3: Highlight What You Learned : Explore how the conversation expanded your understanding of the topic. Discuss any new information or perspectives that you gained. Vanderbilt is looking to see if you’re willing to learn from opposing views, so if you learned anything from the conversation, make sure to add it! 

How to Write Vanderbilt University Supplemental Essay #2 + Analysis and Tips

Vanderbilt University prompt #2 : “Vanderbilt offers a community where students find balance between their academic and social experiences. Please briefly elaborate on how one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences has influenced you.”

Analysis of prompt #2 : This essay asks you to talk about one of your extracurriculars, so it should be an activity or experience that matters the most to you. Vanderbilt values extracurricular activity and emphasizes students having a balance when it comes to their academics. 

1 . Tip #1: Choose an Extracurricular : Start with a self-reflection and brainstorming session instead. Put together a list of everything you do outside of your schoolwork, even if it’s not with a formal club or job. It may be an initiative you started, a volunteering experience, or an internship. 

Your response should not list your extracurriculars since you have already done that in another part of your application.

2. Tip #2: Highlight Transferable Skills : Identify and highlight the skills you gained from the experience that are transferable to both academic and social settings. This could include teamwork, leadership, communication, or organizational skills.

3. Tip #3: Discuss Impact on Academic Performance : Explain how participating in the extracurricular activity or work experience positively impacted your academic performance. This could be through improved focus, discipline, or understanding of your learning style.

Examples of Vanderbilt University Supplemental Essays That Worked

Below, you’ll find some Vanderbilt University supplemental essays written by successful applicants who were admitted to the school! Let’s look at each one and discuss what worked about it.

Sample Essay #1

Prompt : “Vanderbilt offers a community where students find balance between their academic and social experiences. Please briefly elaborate on how one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences has influenced you.”

“I never would’ve thought joining my school’s DECA chapter would catalyze my entrepreneurial aspirations. Yet, three years later and now a [POSITION] of said DECA chapter, I’ve channeled this ever-growing tenacity toward not only being a fierce competitor, but also a fierce leader. Aside from defining my high school experience, DECA has helped me find my place in school and given me the bigger-picture purpose necessary to help me develop into who I want to be, who I’ve already been all along: an entrepreneur. 

As a freshman, I was daunted by the task of producing a business proposal that’d cover all aspects of a business, including financial statements I’d never even heard of before. However, I soon found myself thriving by taking on the role of a potential franchisee, working on each section of my business proposal separately and putting them together to watch my business grow on paper, like pieces of a puzzle fitting into place. Embroiled in the encapsulating realm of entrepreneurship, I was inspired by my first year in DECA to immerse myself in the world of business, seeking to involve myself in additional academic and real-world business-esque opportunities and experiences. 

Within the chapter, I’ve made strides as an officer and now a [POSITION] to increase our member engagement and provide resources for members to help guide them through their business proposal construction process. Recently, tasked with the responsibility of building a chapter website, I’ve channeled my problem-solving and marketing skills gleaned from DECA into constructing an innovative platform that communicates our chapter’s mission, conveys important dates for meetings and competitions, displays samples of officers’ past proposals, as well as highlights Great Neck North DECA alumni. 

With each new year, each new business proposal thrusts me into a new level of competition: from qualifying for the state competition as a timid freshman to qualifying for the international competition during my sophomore year to confidently presenting and defending my most recent business proposal as a competitor in the final round at the international competition during my junior year. Outside of competition, each new year in DECA has thrust me into a new level of exploration, personal growth, and mentorship as I continue to absorb as much business-related knowledge as possible while savoring my time in DECA as both a leader and a competitor, ultimately allowing me to flourish as both a student and a future entrepreneur.”

Why Essay #1 Worked

This is a great essay because the writer captures their feelings about joining DECA and how much it has impacted them. The essay also illustrates the DECA chapter’s mission, which helps showcase that the writer believes in it. 

Sample Essay #2

“Driving intoxicated in the waning hours of the night, he recklessly swerves in and out of lanes until he finally loses control and rams his car into a tree. Save for a few cuts and bruises, he escapes unscathed. His sister’s lifeless body is discovered the morning after the crime–or was it a crime? The light knock of the gavel summons the courtroom to its feet; parents, teachers, coaches, spectators and competitors all stand as the single hour that months were spent preparing for commences.

Having not placed in the regional tournament in a decade, Mock Trial was regarded as little more than a team just barely keeping its head above water, far past its glory years when I first joined the school’s organization. My admiration for the club stretched far beyond simply checking my name off as a member–being content with mediocrity would have no place as long as I was on the team. And so to prevent it from disappearing into oblivion, I began with myself, spending hours learning, polishing and perfecting the skills necessary to succeed. With this, not only did I grow tremendously as an individual and a competitor, but I also gained the respect and admiration of my teammates, earning a leadership role.

Revamping the way Mock Trial operated quickly became a full time job. But, within a year, we were able to secure a spot in the top three of the regional tournament and lift the organization back into prominence. So when the trial starts, have no doubt that the top is the only place we aim. ‘Your honor, opposing counsel, and members of the jury….’ Show time.”

Why Essay #2 Worked

This essay immediately grabs your attention with a detailed reenactment of a crime scene that is a mock trial tournament. The student shows us what this extracurricular means and how they have grown alongside it. They are specific in their accomplishments within the activity, which is a great way to leave a lasting impression . 

Get More Sample Essays Here!

Examining successful supplemental essays is an excellent method for uncovering effective strategies. Explore numerous samples in our comprehensive college essay database below to discover a wide range of examples!

Do you still have questions about the Vanderbilt supplemental essays? Below, we have frequently asked questions. 

1. What Is Vanderbilt University’s Acceptance Rate? 

Vanderbilt’s acceptance rate is 5.1% . Out of the 41,336 applicants in the 2024 cycle, only 1,512 were admitted. 

2. How Is the Admissions Process for Vanderbilt University? 

Vanderbilt uses a holistic admissions process , meaning one element does not make or break an application. The school considers all student evaluation factors, from test scores and grades to extracurricular activities and leadership roles. 

3. What Kinds of Applications Can I Submit for Vanderbilt? 

You can apply for Vanderbilt using the Common App, Coalition App, and QuestBridge program. Choose the right application system for you, as Vanderbilt has no preference. Carefully follow the instructions on their respective site. 

4. What Are the Other Application Requirements for Vanderbilt? 

Apart from the requirements of each application system, you must submit high school transcripts, a counselor's letter of recommendation, two teacher recommendations, and an application fee of $50. Fee waivers are available for qualified students, and standardized test scores are currently optional. 

5. Are There Any Other Supplemental Materials for First-Year Applicants? 

If you apply for Vanderbilt’s Blair School of Music, you must complete a separate application besides the Coalition or Common App. You must also submit at least one artistic recommendation, a headshot, a music resume, a repertoire list, and a pre-screening video. You can find more details on the Blair Admissions Page .

Final Thoughts 

The Vanderbilt supplemental essay asks you to focus on an experience with opposing views or an extracurricular activity that matters to you, whether it be a school club, job, internship, or volunteer experience. 

Since you only have one prompt to show the admissions committee your story, be thoughtful in your response and choose a topic that highlights your values and goals.

Writing an excellent essay is only one part of your application, so follow our ultimate guide on applying to Vanderbilt. Remember, the best essay is one where you can proudly share a meaningful conversation or activity that impacted your perspective for the better. 

Focus on what you want to show the admissions committee, not what you think the committee wants to read. You will craft a stellar essay if you draw on your unique experiences.

Access 190+ sample college essays here

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Vanderbilt University 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Early Decision: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 1

You Have: 

Vanderbilt University 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanations

Vanderbilt decided to keep it short and sweet, so we’ll follow suit. A one-question supplement means you’ve got one shot at perfection. No pressure, though.

The Requirements: 1 essay of 250 words

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Activity , Diversity

Please select one of the following short answer prompts in approximately 250 words: *

Vanderbilt offers a community where students find balance between their academic and social experiences. please briefly elaborate on how one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences has influenced you. .

This is a standard activity essay, much like the prompts of Brown , Tulane , and University of Michigan . So here’s the assignment: tell admissions something they don’t already know about you. When you pick your activity, make sure it doesn’t appear in other essays you’ve written (like your Common App personal statement, for example). This is a perfect opportunity to showcase leadership skills, extracurricular interests, or personal values. So choose an activity that is meaningful to you and through which you have grown in tangible ways (getting promoted) or intangible ways (learning the value of compassion). Oh, and that 250-word limit means you could easily recycle an activity essay you’ve written for another school. Just make sure you swap out any institution-specific details before you hit submit!

Vanderbilt University values learning through contrasting points of view. We understand that our differences, and our respect for alternative views and voices, are our greatest source of strength. Please reflect on conversations you’ve had with people who have expressed viewpoints different from your own. How did these conversations/experiences influence you?

Engaging others in meaningful conversations about important issues can be daunting. It can also be insightful or, unfortunately, polarizing. Vanderbilt wants to know about a time when you interacted with someone whose beliefs were different from your own. So think back to identify a time when you had a conversation with friends, family, or even mere acquaintances about a difficult topic. Maybe you challenged your uncle when he dismissed your concerns about climate change. Did you leave the conversation with a better understanding of his point of view? Were you able to effectively communicate your perspective? If you were to converse with someone on this topic again in the future, what would you do or say differently? 

You don’t need to have changed anyone’s mind to impress admissions here. You just need to show that you’re not afraid to speak up about issues that matter to you or communicate with those who have different opinions than your own. Vandy will present you with plenty of opportunities to meet and engage with people who are very different from you, so show admissions that you’re willing to have the hard talks.

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The Impact of Professional Scholarship Essay Writing Services on Academic Success

I t’s hard to overestimate the usefulness of writing services for someone who needs a good essay for a scholarship application. At the same time, there are some concerns about the probable negative impact of writing services on academic success. Let’s consider both the potential negative and positive impact of a scholarship essay writing service to decide what’s stronger.

One of the most widespread concerns about the impact of essay writing services is the ethical side of use. Evidently, it is improper if people will provide someone’s work as their own. Even though such concern cannot be called groundless, it’s a matter of choice. Writing service is a tool, and it’s only the customer's choice how to use it. A person can buy a knife to cut fruits and vegetables or to take someone's life. This is not about the tool but about the ethics and decisions of the particular person who uses the tool.  

Another concern is related to the dependency. When people overuse writing services and outsource their own tasks to other experts, it rather decreases their own skills that ought to be developed with the assignments. It’s once again about human conscience and ethics. In this context, it can be useful to compare writing services with coffee. Sometimes, this drink can be very useful to help you wake up or not fall asleep for longer. However, with excessive use, it can be harmful to health and be addictive. And, if you are regularly using coffee to wake yourself up or to stay awake, you probably have to reconsider your time management.

One more concern is about the money. Writing services obviously don’t provide their help for free. Hence, the frequent use of it can cause a financial burden for people who use such services. Thinking this way, one can assume that any type of purchase can cause a financial burden. Most writing services insist on price transparency and the absence of any hidden additional increase in the price. One can see the price before placing an order and deciding whether this money will harm the budget.

As you can see, although the concerns about writing services aren’t baseless, they’re more about the weakness of human nature than about the negative impact of writing services themselves. People who can act unethically will find their way with or without writing services. And if a person has trouble managing money it will be evident from the different aspects of life, not only the use of writing services. You can be careful using writing services, but not more careful than with anything else in life. 

Except for the concerns considered above, writing services can also positively impact academic success when used properly. A person who needs to write a scholarship essay often faces the problem of procrastination and blank page syndrome. In such a case, help from a writing service can be incredibly useful to overcome the problems. A person can use the paper from the writing service as an example to follow or, in contrast, decide that everything must be written differently. Most importantly, one will start working on the scholarship essay instead of waiting for inspiration or being lost in anxiety. 

• The positive impact on mental health comes from the previous advantage. Applying for the scholarship is a stressful process. A person is concerned about all the papers that must be gathered and forms to be filled out in the proper way, about the future if the scholarship will be obtained, and about the development of the events if not. Writing services that provide personalized examples of scholarship essays can help reduce stress and anxiety and, hence, have at least a small positive impact on mental health. 
• Expert guidance can be crucial for a person who needs a scholarship. Yes, you can find free examples of scholarship essays on the web, but you might not be sure which is most suitable for your particular case. Writing services have professionals who often write scholarship essays and know their specifics. In addition, a personalized example is the most useful one to understand what and how you can write to succeed. 
• Time management is the last but not the least point in this list. Writing services have short deadlines of just a few hours, which allows a person to get a ready example on the same day it was ordered. This saves time that a person might spend reading and understanding the nuances of the scholarship essay. Instead of that, one can take this time for other no less essential papers or activities related to getting a scholarship.

Final words

As one can see, scholarship essay writing services can potentially negatively and positively impact academic success. Such services can be a powerful tool to save time, avoid stress, and get a well-written personalized example of a scholarship essay. However, as well as in the case of any tool, it must be used wisely and ethically. 

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Spring 2024 Symposium of Student Scholars

How Long Is the Essay Supposed to Be, Professor? A Literature Review of Feasible Writing Expectations for University Students and In-Class Exams

Kris Duah , Kennesaw State University Follow Kenneth White , Kennesaw State University Follow

• Disciplines

Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research | Educational Methods | Scholarship of Teaching and Learning

Abstract (300 words maximum)

What is a reasonable amount of writing, in terms of number of paragraphs, that a professor can expect from university students during an hour-long, in-class essay exam? This study is a literature review that attempts to answer this question of how much or how fast a student can be expected to write during an in-class, timed exam. The goal is to summarize previous scholarship on this question using education databases available through Kennesaw State University's library system—particularly, ERIC (Educational Resources Information Center). Search terms include: “written exams,” “essay writing,” “writing speed,” “teacher expectations,” “test expectations,” and “student performance” among others. This study recapitulates existing literature on writing speed and exam expectations to determine a reasonable standard for how much students can be expected to write during an in-class exam. This information could help both students and instructors manage their expectations of writing quantity during timed, in-class exams.

Academic department under which the project should be listed

RCHSS - Sociology & Criminal Justice

Primary Investigator (PI) Name

Kenneth White

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Thirty-three students named in the inaugural awarding of the Provost Pathbreaking Discovery Award

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May 16, 2024, 9:35 AM

Thirty-three students were named in the inaugural awarding of the Provost Pathbreaking Discovery Award. This award, funded by the Enhanced Funding and Support Model for Doctoral Education , recognizes doctoral students who exhibit exceptional academic excellence in areas such as publications, awards, patents and other forms of national/international distinction.

Awardees have distinguished themselves as peer reviewers for prestigious journals, published authors and presenters at national and international venues. Among other professional and academic accolades, they have contributed significantly to field advancements through innovative research, volunteered within the community, mentored fellow students and demonstrated exceptional scholarship throughout their tenure as graduate students at Vanderbilt University.

Winners include:

• George Abitante, psychological sciences
• Bunmi Adegbola, religion
• Vera Borkowski, nursing science
• Mariah Caballero, community research and action
• Darian Carroll, molecular physiology and biophysics
• Marianne Casilio, hearing and speech sciences
• Abigail Ciriegio, psychological sciences
• Colton Cronin, law
• Kelly Cunningham, philosophy
• Ryan Fansler, microbe-host interactions
• Zahra Farahbakhsh, neuroscience
• Azuah Gonzalez, molecular pathology and immunology
• Monika Grabowksa, biomedical informatics
• Krista Haapanen, community research and action
• Sarah Hagaman, English
• Chancey Herbolsheimer, sociology
• Alex Hughes, chemistry
• Mirazul Islam, cell and developmental biology
• Liam Kelly, earth and environmental sciences
• Tara Mack, human genetics
• Lindsay Martin, biological sciences
• Kara McNamara, cancer biology
• Mellissa Meisels, political science
• Ludwig Noya, religion
• Koichi Oyakawa, mathematics
• Alexandra Reichert, anthropology
• Amy Stark, pharmacology
• David Storm, physics
• Shengxin Tu, biostatistics
• Paige Vega, cell and developmental biology
• Cong Wang, epidemiology
• Bethany Young, nursing science
• Xiaoyu (Lily) Yu, biochemistry

“In recognizing the exceptional achievements of our students through the Provost Pathbreaking Discovery Award, we celebrate not just their individual scholarship, but the collective impact they make on their respective fields,” said C. André Christie-Mizell, vice provost for graduate education and dean of the Graduate School. “These students embody academic excellence, setting new standards with their groundbreaking research, impactful publications and notable contributions to society.”

The achievements of these students not only reflect their dedication to their fields but also inspire future generations of scholars. Congratulations to these exceptional individuals for their outstanding contributions and well-deserved recognition.

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