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How to Write the University of Miami Essay 2023-2024

The University of Miami has one required supplemental essay prompt for all applicants. The prompt asks about how your life experiences, challenges you’ve overcome, or skills you’ve acquired would contribute to the UMiami community.

Since UMiami receives thousands of applications from academically strong students, your essays are your chance to stand out. In this post, we’ll discuss how to craft an engaging response to this required prompt.

Read these UMiami essay examples to inspire your writing.

University of Miami Supplemental Essay Prompt

Located within one of the most dynamic cities in the world, the university of miami is a distinctive community with a variety of cultures, traditions, histories, languages, and backgrounds. the university of miami is a values-based and purpose-driven postsecondary institution that embraces diversity and inclusivity in all its forms and strives to create a culture of belonging, where every person feels valued and has an opportunity to contribute., please describe how your unique experiences, challenges overcome, or skills acquired would contribute to our distinctive university community. (250 words).

This prompt is rather open-ended in that you can essentially discuss anything! Unique experiences, challenges overcome, and skills acquired are the three explicitly stated categories of things you might want to discuss. Given the introductory paragraph about diversity, you may want to consider writing about a unique life experience that highlights an aspect of your identity. That said, we will go over writing a diversity essay and an “overcoming challenges” essay so that you can write to your strengths.

Writing a “Diversity” Essay

Note that diversity encompasses several disparate aspects of identity, including ethnicity/race, country of origin, language, gender or sexual identity, geographical location, income class, disability or illness, personality trait, extracurricular interest, or something else entirely!

An aspect of diversity might also be something that taught you or inspired your passions, something that you were born into, or something you’re just now learning that you’re a part of. The life experience you write about simply needs to represent a part of yourself that is genuine.


A quick note if you intend to write about your racial background: In June 2023, the United States Supreme Court struck down the use of affirmative action in college admissions. The ruling, however, still allows colleges to consider race on an individual basis, which is one reason many schools are now including diversity prompts as one of their supplemental essay prompts. If you feel that your racial background has impacted you significantly, this is the place to discuss that.

Once you’ve chosen the life experience or aspect of your identity you want to write about, reflect on the impact that it’s had on your life and begin weaving that into your response. Think about the lessons you’ve learned along the way, the people you’ve met, and the skills you’ve learned. Consider this example:

“Ever since I was a little kid, stories have run rampant in my mind. I would make up stories in the car, in the shower, when I would close my eyes to go to sleep. They’d play out like movies in my head, and I got overwhelmed by not knowing what to do with them, so I turned against myself and wished that I would stop. That’s when I found the Creative Writing Club at my school.

Finding other people who shared the same inherent reflex I did not only made me feel normal again but made me feel accepted. I found that my habits were not unhealthy, but inspired. I suddenly found an outlet for 16 years’ worth of pent-up ideas and creativity. I had people to share my stories with, but more importantly, I was a person with whom they could share theirs. Swapping stories became a way for us to learn about different perspectives, cultures, and identities, and in doing so, it has made us all more worldly and empathetic.

I wish to join the Written In My Soul club to share in the experience of using creative writing as an outlet for emotions and ideas. I am excited by the idea of joining a new vibrant community of writers that is so different from the ones I have been in before.”

Writing an “Overcoming Challenges” Essay

Besides life experiences, aspects of diversity, and interests, you can choose to write about a challenge you’ve overcome. This topic can reflect your ability to handle difficult situations and learn from them.

To write an effective response, you’ll want to construct an anecdote that goes through both the challenge and your thought process during and after it. Start with a brief description of the challenge. Next, describe the steps you took to approach the challenge.

Also make sure to discuss the outcome of the situation and show the admissions officer how you matured from this experience, specifically identifying what you have learned from it. The most common mistake students make is to focus too much on the challenge, rather than their thought process, emotions, and growth as a result of overcoming it.

As you brainstorm and begin drafting your response, here are some questions to direct your thinking:

• Why was this challenge so important to you? What is its significance?
• At that moment, what was your reaction to the situation? How did it affect you (thoughts, emotions)?
• Were the steps you took to manage the situation successful? Why or why not?
• How did this challenge allow you to grow and mature as an individual?

Try to avoid “challenges” that are too trivial; although you may be upset that you got a B on that one calculus test, this is not a significant enough challenge to analyze. For this prompt, it’s important to demonstrate personal growth and maturity, as these are traits that will help you contribute to the UMiami community.

You should also avoid challenges that are clichés , such as:

• A sports injury
• Working hard in a difficult class
• Adjusting to a new culture or school
• Facing tragedy (death, illness, abuse)
• Romantic relationships and breakups

To get you thinking, here’s an example of a hypothetical student’s experience:

A student who is passionate about robotics wanted to start a competitive robotics club at her school. She gathered a group of interested students and began the process of getting the club approved by the administration, but to your disappointment, the club was rejected. Instead of accepting defeat, she and her peers petitioned the school in hopes of having the board members reconsider their decision.

While she ultimately didn’t win over the school board, the student discovered her talent for persuasive speaking in the process, and decided to join the Debate Team. She has since won several awards and even got to give a local TED Talk. She wants to major in Communications at UMiami and hopes to share her knowledge and expertise with her future peers on the Debate Team.

A Final Note

Whether you decide to write about an aspect of your identity, a life experience, a challenge you overcame, a skill you acquired, or something else entirely, be sure to describe how your topic served as an opportunity for learning and personal growth. Also don’t forget to address the final part of the prompt by stating how you will contribute to the UMiami community. This contribution can take a variety of forms, but it’s best to find a specific resource or opportunity at UMiami that you can see yourself being a part of.

Where to Get Your University of Miami Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your UMiami essays? After rereading your essay over and over again, it can be difficult to determine where your writing might be improved upon. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

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University of Miami Supplemental Essays 2023-24

Wondering how to write your University of Miami supplemental essays? For many students, writing the University of Miami essays can feel like a daunting task. Luckily, CollegeAdvisor has the expertise and resources to help you write a standout University of Miami essay.

The University of Miami is a private college located in Miami, Florida. Indeed, UMiami is one of the top colleges in Florida . To get in, you’ll need to write strong UMiami supplemental essays. 

In this article, we’ll discuss which University of Miami essays are required to apply, as well as tips for how to write a standout University of Miami essay. By the end, you’ll have all the resources you need to write winning University of Miami supplemental essays.

UMiami Supplemental Essays: Quick Facts

Umiami supplemental essays quick facts.

• University of Miami Acceptance Rate:  27%–  U.S. News  ranks University of Miami as a  most selective  school. 
• 1 (250 word) essay
• UMiami Application:  Students must submit their University of Miami application through the  Common Application . Make sure to have all of your University of Miami supplemental essays and other  required application materials  ready when applying. 
• Early Decision I and Early Action: November 1
• Early Decision II and Regular Decision: January 1
• University of Miami Essay Tip:  Since there is only one University of Miami supplemental essay to complete, answer as thoughtfully and authentically as you can.

Please note that essay requirements are subject to change each admissions cycle, and portions of this article may have been written before the final publication of the most recent guidelines. For the most up-to-date information on essay requirements, check the university’s admissions website.

Does University of Miami have supplemental essays?

Yes, the University of Miami has one supplemental essay. The UMiami supplemental essays seek to gather more information about you and how your experiences or interests fit with the school’s resources and culture.

The University of Miami supplemental essays focus on community. Indeed, UMiami prides itself on its diverse campus. Located in Miami, UMiami’s student body reflects the diversity of the city it calls home. In fact, more than half of its student body identify as students of color. Additionally, nearly half of students speak a second language. Furthermore, more than two-thirds of students come from out-of-state. As we can see, UMiami attracts students from all different walks of life.

So, how does one write the University of Miami supplemental essays? We’ll share the University of Miami essay prompts and how to address them later. But first, we’ll explore how the UMiami supplemental essays fit within the broader admissions process.

University of Miami Requirements

The University of Miami, like many competitive schools, uses a holistic admissions process to build its incoming class. But what, you might wonder, is a holistic admissions process?

A holistic admissions process takes every factor into account when evaluating a student’s application. This kind of process does not simply rely on academic achievement.  Instead, the process seeks to evaluate who you are as a whole student. 

This means that the University of Miami supplemental essays form a critical piece of your application. They offer a fuller picture of your personality, strengths, and experiences. So, pay attention to the University of Miami essay prompts, as they can make a major difference in the admissions process. 

Additionally, a holistic admissions process seeks to build an incoming class composed of students from different backgrounds. When reading UMiami supplemental essays, the admissions team aims to ensure that their students will collectively represent a cross-section of society. In this, each student adds to the strength of an incoming class through their own unique lived experiences. 

Understanding the UMiami requirements

The University of Miami requirements are multifold. To apply, you will need to submit a completed Common Application, your high school transcripts, a school report completed by your counselor, a letter of recommendation, a personal statement (Common App essay), and your University of Miami supplemental essays. 

Many students wonder how SAT or ACT scores factor into admissions decisions. The University of Miami is still test-optional as of 2023-24, meaning that students can opt to not submit test scores. However, this does not mean the University of Miami admissions is becoming less selective. On the contrary, the University of Miami acceptance rate has declined in recent years. In fact, choosing not to submit test scores means that other factors—like your University of Miami supplemental essays—may weigh more heavily in your application review. So, strong University of Miami supplemental essays can make a major difference in the admissions process. 

University of Miami Personal Statement

In addition to writing your University of Miami supplemental essays, you’ll submit a personal statement . A personal statement is a more general introduction to who you are. On the Common Application, which you will use to apply to the University of Miami, there are seven essay topics. You’ll choose one of these prompts for your personal statement. Additionally, note that the word limit for this essay is 650 words. 

We recommend choosing a personal statement prompt before writing your University of Miami supplemental essays, since you should not repeat ideas in both essays. In addition, since your personal statement goes to all the schools you apply to using the Common App, make sure to choose a topic that showcases core parts of your personal brand .

Choosing a personal statement prompt

You might be wondering, how do I select an essay prompt? The key is to choose a topic that you feel passionate about. So, look at each of the Common App prompts. Which ones connect with a story you have that reflects a key part of your identity? Moreover, how can you use these prompts to showcase who you are and what makes you unique?

If you are passionate about the topic, you’ll write a compelling essay. Additionally, don’t be afraid to try your hand at multiple prompts. Sometimes, you need to redraft an essay multiple times in order to find the right topic. Check out these sample essays to see how other students approached writing their personal statements.

Once you have any idea of what to write about in your Common Application personal statement, you can think more specifically about your University of Miami essay. Overall, your University of Miami essay should highlight a different part of your identity than your Common App essay. So, look for things UMiami should know about you that don’t come through in the rest of your application. 

University of Miami Essay: Community Essay

The University of Miami supplemental essays include just one 250-word essay—the diverse community essay. This type of essay seeks to understand what makes you a unique and diverse candidate. You might recognize this kind of essay prompt from other schools. 

Here is the prompt for the diverse community essay:

Community Essay Prompt

Located within one of the most dynamic cities in the world, the university of miami is a distinctive community with a variety of cultures, traditions, histories, languages, and backgrounds. the university of miami is a values-based and purpose-driven postsecondary institution that embraces diversity and inclusivity in all its forms and strives to create a culture of belonging, where every person feels valued and has an opportunity to contribute., please describe how your unique experiences, challenges overcome, or skills acquired would contribute to our distinctive university community., umiami supplemental essays – understanding the prompt.

With this prompt, we see how the University of Miami supplemental essays aim to determine not only what makes you unique, but how your life experiences will add to UMiami’s diverse community. The prompt itself also highlights what kind of community UMiami seeks to cultivate. So, strong UMiami supplemental essays will clearly address how a student will contribute to UMiami’s diverse campus culture. 

Indeed, as a UMiami student, you’ll be exposed to students from all walks of life and be encouraged to value and respect your peers’ experiences. So, writing your UMiami supplemental essays can allow you to reflect on whether the school is a good fit for you.

So, think about how you would benefit from—and contribute to—a diverse campus environment like UMiami. Then, you’ll be ready to approach the University of Miami supplemental essays. In the next section, we’ll talk about how to craft strong University of Miami supplemental essays.

How to write the University of Miami supplemental essays

Writing your University of Miami supplemental essays might seem daunting. However, if you think critically about how to approach the UMiami supplemental essays, you can make the most of your supplements and increase your admissions odds. 

Here are some important steps in writing your UMiami supplemental essays:

1. Reflect upon your identities

The college admissions process is all about reflection. Indeed, reflecting should be the first step in writing your University of Miami supplemental essays. In this essay prompt, UMiami highlights how it values “diversity and inclusivity in all its forms.” So, don’t get stuck on race or ethnicity, even if this is what most people think of when they hear diversity. Also, don’t feel the need to exaggerate experiences or focus on parts of your identity that aren’t meaningful to you.

Instead, think about all the life experiences that have truly shaped you and taught you valuable lessons. For example, maybe you lived in eleven different states as a child. Or perhaps, you had a learning disability when you were starting out in school. Any of these aspects of your experience are valid to highlight in your UMiami supplemental essays—as long as they are important to you.

2. Free-write

Once you have which aspect of your life experience you want to highlight, do a free write. This can help you get used to writing about your experiences. As such, it’s a great way to learn how to approach the University of Miami supplemental essays.

A free-write is when you write for a set amount of time, such as 10 minutes, and don’t stop even if your thoughts feel jumbled or pointless. The purpose of a free-write is to remove the anxiety that comes with trying to find perfect words for your University of Miami supplemental essays.

After your free-write, take a look at what you’ve written. Do any ideas stand out? You don’t need to use any information from your free-write in your UMiami supplemental essays. However, you might still find a useful idea to refine as you begin drafting. 

3. Revise for key ideas

Once you have completed a free-write, review your writing to identify themes you wish to keep. For example, maybe as you moved around as a kid, you realize that you were constantly worried about making new friends. In this case, you may write your UMiami supplemental essays about how to relate to people from different backgrounds. 

Once again, don’t be afraid to write multiple different University of Miami supplemental essays. The more you write about your experiences, the easier it will become. 

4. Highlight examples and details

As you revise your University of Miami supplemental essays, ensure that you use specific examples and details to make your story come to life. We sometimes call this process “showing, not telling.”

For example, instead of saying “I was nervous to start at a new school,” say “I walked into class with my head low, trying to avoid locking eyes with anyone.” This detail shows us, rather than tells us, how you are feeling.

5. Have a takeaway

In the revision process for your UMiami supplemental essays, focus on sharing what you learned from your experience. Indeed, this essay prompt asks how your experiences will help you contribute to the UMiami community.

No matter what you write about, the University of Miami admissions officers want to understand how you’ve grown and changed as a person. Moreover, they want to see how your growth and experiences will allow you to enrich their community. 

Tips to make your UMiami essay stand out

Each year, the University of Miami receives about 48,000 applications. As such, it is critical that your University of Miami essays stand out. 

Here are a few tips to ensure you write intriguing essays :

1. Be honest

The best way to stand out in the admissions process is to be yourself. University of Miami admissions officers can see through inauthentic answers. So, instead of writing UMiami supplemental essays you think admissions officers want to read, be authentic. Think critically about what experiences make you who you are. Then, make sure these experiences shine through in your University of Miami supplemental essays.

2. Find a hook

Make sure to have a compelling start to your UMiami supplemental essays. For your University of Miami supplemental essays, a hook can take many forms. For instance, you might place the reader in the middle of a story, or you might include a surprising thought upon which the rest of your essay expands. 

3. Edit for clarity and grammar

Since the University of Miami acceptance rate is low, you’ll need to demonstrate strong writing skills to stand out. As such, always have at least one to two trusted people read your essay to help you fix grammatical errors and refine your ideas. The best UMiami supplemental essays won’t be written overnight, so give yourself plenty of time to edit and redraft. 

When is the University of Miami application due?

There are several UMiami application deadlines . While all of them have the same University of Miami requirements, including the same UMiami supplemental essays, they have different dates . 

The first major decision you’ll want to make when applying to UMiami is whether you wish to apply early. Applying early may increase your odds of admission, as it demonstrates to UMiami that you’re serious about attending the school. Further, you can learn about your admissions status earlier when you apply by one of the two early deadlines. 

There are two ways to apply early to UMiami, both of which have November 1 deadlines:

Early Decision I

Early Decision is a binding application program. By applying Early Decision, you are stating that you will definitely attend UMiami if admitted. While applying Early Decision can increase your odds of admission, it is only recommended if financial aid is not a deciding factor for you in the college process. Indeed, if you are admitted Early Decision, you are bound to accept whatever financial aid the school offers. Since UMiami has an average annual price of $30,742 , you should be comfortable with paying this amount or more when you apply Early Decision to Miami.

Early Action

Early Action is another way to apply early to the University of Miami. Applying EA may not increase your odds of admissions as much as Early Decision. However, it is also not a binding application. In this sense, it is a better option if cost is a major factor in deciding where to attend college.

Choosing an application deadline

There are many reasons why you may not wish to apply early to a college. First, you may not yet be sure whether you want to attend, which makes applying ED difficult. Secondly, you might wish to have more time to work on your University of Miami supplemental essays or boost your GPA by raising your grades in the fall of your senior year. 

If you wish to apply by the regular deadlines for Miami, you have two options. Both application deadlines are January 1:

Early Decision II

Though this deadline is called Early Decision II, it is not actually an early deadline. In fact, you have till January 1 to apply Early Decision II. However, like Early Decision I, your acceptance to UMiami is binding if you apply Early Decision II. But, if UMiami is still your top choice by the time January 1 approaches, you may wish to apply Early Decision II to increase your odds of admission.

Regular Decision

Regular Decision is a standard way of applying that does not confer any of the advantages or restrictions of the early deadlines. However, if UMiami is not a top choice for you, then applying Regular Decision may make the most sense. 

Regardless of which deadline you choose, your application must be clear and compelling. Moreover, it should demonstrate why you are an ideal student for the school to admit. Well-crafted University of Miami supplemental essays form a critical part of any strong application.

University of Miami Supplemental Essays – 5 Takeaways

By now, we hope it’s clear how important your UMiami supplemental essays are in your application.

Here are five key takeaways as you prepare to write your University of Miami supplemental essays:

1. Show your authentic self

Whether you are writing your UMiami supplemental essays or putting together your activities list, showcase what makes you unique. From the University of Miami essay prompts, we can tell that the school values individuality and diversity. Don’t fall into the trap of trying to sound impressive, as this will hinder the authenticity of your application. Instead, be honest about why you belong at UMiami. 

2. Learn about the school

Before you write your UMiami supplemental essays, ensure that you know a lot about the institution. This will help you craft an application that showcases how your strengths align with UMiami’s offerings. Visit the school, follow their social media, and read the University blog to stay on top of admissions news .

3. Develop an application strategy

As you prepare your application to UMiami, you must decide whether applying early to the school makes sense. If you truly wish to attend this well-regarded school, you’ll want to take whatever steps are possible to increase your odds of admission. Still, be sure that you’ve considered financial aid implications if you decide to apply early. In addition, your application strategy should include developing a personal brand, writing strong UMiami supplemental essays, and getting recommendation letters that highlight your academic and personal strengths.

4. Start early

Even if you don’t apply early to UMiami, you should start preparing for the application process well before the deadline. The earlier you start, the better. With more time, you’ll be able to do deeper research, spend longer on your UMiami supplemental essays, and reach out to the admissions office if you have questions. 

5. Get help

While the college admissions process can be overwhelming, you’re never alone. Consider all the people in your community who can help you, from family and friends to teachers and guidance counselors. If you want personalized support, our team at CollegeAdvisor.com is here to help. Our experts will guide you through every aspect of the admissions process, from completing the Common App to crafting your UMiami supplemental essays to applying for scholarships.

In this article, we reviewed how to write your University of Miami supplemental essays. We took you through the University of Miami essay prompts and offered tips for making your University of Miami essay stand out. With thoughtful reflection and careful writing, you’ll surely put together a University of Miami essay that stands out from the rest. Good luck!

This essay guide was written by Senior Advisor Courtney Ng . Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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University of Miami Supplemental Essays 2024 | Strategies and Insights for Success

The University of Miami, once renowned for its football prowess in the 1980s and ’90s, has evolved into a powerhouse on the academic front in the 2020s. With close to 50,000 applications flooding in and an acceptance rate dwindling to just 19%, U Miami has transformed into a highly selective institution, challenging even top-performing students to secure admission. In the competitive landscape of 2023-24, the University of Miami supplemental essay emerges as a critical component of the application process, offering applicants a platform to distinguish themselves in a sea of impressive credentials.

Despite featuring only one general essay prompt, the University of Miami’s supplemental section remains a vital opportunity for applicants to showcase their unique qualifications for admission. As applicants gear up for the 2023-24 admissions cycle, let’s delve into U Miami’s supplemental prompt and offer insights on crafting a winning composition.

Also read University of Miami Acceptance Rate | Strategies and Insights for Admission Success 2024

University of Miami Supplemental Essays

Prompt 1: Contributing to a Diverse Community (250 Words) Nestled within one of the world’s most vibrant cities, the University of Miami prides itself on fostering a diverse and inclusive community, where every individual is valued and empowered to contribute. In 250 words, share how your unique experiences, challenges overcome, or skills acquired would enrich our distinctive university community. Consider aligning your response with U Miami’s mission of embracing diversity, inclusivity, and creating a culture of belonging. Reflect on your familial, social, or personal experiences, highlighting their impact on shaping your perspective and readiness to contribute positively to U Miami’s vibrant tapestry of cultures and backgrounds.

The language used in the prompt offers valuable insights into what your essay should address. Pay attention to U Miami’s emphasis on being a values-based, purpose-driven institution that prioritizes diversity and inclusivity. Craft your response to showcase how you align with these values and how your experiences will shape your role as a member of the U Miami community.

As you tackle the University of Miami supplemental essays, consider exploring various facets of your identity and experiences, such as:

• Your familial or social role.
• Challenges overcome and lessons learned.
• Formative experiences or realizations.
• Evolving perspectives or opinions.
• Cultural, religious, or community influences.
• Impactful skills you possess.

Once you’ve chosen a direction, delve into the lessons learned from your experiences and how they contribute to U Miami’s mission of diversity, inclusivity, and belonging. Showcasing humility, open-mindedness, and a willingness to learn and grow will resonate positively with the admissions committee, highlighting your potential as a valued member of the U Miami community.

Also see University of Miami Transfer Acceptance Rate 2024 | Strategies and Insights for Success

The Importance of the UMiami Supplemental Essay

The UMiami supplemental essay, alongside the Common App essay, holds significant weight in the evaluation process, rated as “very important” by the admissions committee. Alongside factors like coursework rigor, GPA, class rank, recommendations, and extracurricular activities, the quality of your supplemental essay plays a crucial role in shaping the admissions decision. Thus, aspiring UMiami applicants must recognize the immense value placed on crafting a compelling supplemental essay that aligns with the university’s mission and values.

The University of Miami supplemental essays for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle offer applicants a pivotal opportunity to showcase their unique experiences, perspectives, and readiness to contribute to a diverse and inclusive community. With the prompt emphasizing the university’s commitment to embracing diversity and creating a culture of belonging, applicants are encouraged to craft responses that resonate with these values. As the admissions committee places immense importance on the quality of the supplemental essays, aspiring UMiami applicants must approach this task with diligence, humility, and a genuine desire to share their stories and insights. By thoughtfully addressing the prompts and aligning their responses with UMiami’s mission, applicants can enhance their chances of standing out and securing a place in this dynamic and vibrant academic community.

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Essay Writing Tips from Charles Cammack

By UM Admission 09-06-2023

Here are three quick things that we all should strive for to improve our writing; check them out below:

Effectiveness

If you had to choose between writing an essay or giving a speech, which would you choose? Or maybe you would rather play a musical piece, play a sport or even perform a dance? Whether you recognize it or not, you are communicating in some way, shape, or form through these activities.

Just because you have convinced yourself that you’re not a good writer or maybe you just don’t enjoy it, does not mean you have a lack of communication skills. The effectiveness of your essay writing might come more naturally if you first identify your best form of communication and then translate what you are communicating in that form to words on the page.

Remember when you needed to explain to the person at the store or at the random gas station that you needed directions to the bathroom? You were specific and straight to the point. The individual knew exactly what you were trying to communicate. Using more words does not always make your story stronger.

So now, imagine that the people who are reading your essay only have a limited amount of time to do so; how can you help them get to the “bathroom” sooner?

Your unique story and perspective are enough. You are enough. I know it is tempting to try to figure out what the college or university wants to hear, but the fit will come with the institution that identifies and appreciates who you are as much as you appreciate who they are. Write your essay as you and for you.

I could absolutely say more, but that wouldn’t be efficient , now would it? Feel free to write me anytime if you are looking for a little more guidance!

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Our Analysis of the 2023-2024 Supplemental Essay Prompts

This year's batch of supplemental essay prompts was released on august 1st. here's what those prompts reveal about the changing priorities at colleges and universities..

Thanks to the perceived essay loophole Chief Justice Roberts’ Supreme Court decision language created—establishing that students can write about racial identity when tied to other experiences and characteristics—there has been much speculation that colleges would scramble to add diversity-related questions to their applications. Now that the Common App has reset for 2023-24, we can see colleges’ new supplemental questions. Did this bear out? So far, we’d say: yes. Yes it did. Here are a few overall trends and changes we’re noticing in the 2023-2024 supplemental essay prompts.

An increase in DEIB-related essays

This comes as no surprise. It’s important to note that many colleges already had prompts that asked students to reflect on their identities, on their communities, or on how they would contribute to diverse campuses; schools like Duke, Michigan, and Syracuse have included questions like this on their supplements for years now. But other schools have made notable changes since June’s decision: University of Miami, for example, replaced their question about the ibis (which, admittedly, we are not terribly sad to see go); American University scrapped their “why AU?”; and UVA retooled the essay questions they had only just retooled last year (even though UVA’s Dean J admitted she really liked last year’s version).

Here are the new versions of those schools’ supplemental essay questions:

University of Miami

“Located within one of the most dynamic cities in the world, the University of Miami is a distinctive community with a variety of cultures, traditions, histories, languages, and backgrounds. The University of Miami is a values-based and purpose-driven postsecondary institution that embraces diversity and inclusivity in all its forms and strives to create a culture of belonging, where every person feels valued and has an opportunity to contribute. Please describe how your unique experiences, challenges overcome, or skills acquired would contribute to our distinctive University community.” (max 250 words)

American University

“At American University, Inclusive Excellence is a cornerstone of the academic experience for our students, and we deeply value the learning that is inspired by the diversity of backgrounds and life experiences that all our community members bring with them. Please share why you would like to join this community.” (max 150 words)

All Applicants (300 words or less):

“What about your background, perspective, or experience will serve as a source of strength for you or those around you at UVA?”

(…and read more about UVA’s new legacy-based optional question here ).

More choice for students

Many colleges who have introduced new questions have included these questions as one of several choices. BU, for example, introduced a new question—“Reflect on a social or community issue that deeply resonates with you. Why is it important to you, and how have you been involved in addressing or raising awareness about it?”—but kept their classic “Why BU?” as an alternative option. Offering prompt choices—which schools like Tufts, Boston College, Villanova, Emory, and University of Richmond have done for quite some time—allows for students to write about their identities if they wish and on their own terms.

…Except at Harvard

As one of the defendants in the Supreme Court case, Harvard has lots of eyes on its post-SCOTUS decision making. Its response to the decision? Eliminating the previous optional (er, “optional”) essay and instituting five required essays. Very Harvard of them. And yes, one of them is directly about diversity:

“Harvard has long recognized the importance of enrolling a diverse student body. How will the life experiences that shape who you are today enable you to contribute to Harvard?”

Less emphasis on “why us?” essays

While this isn’t true everywhere, we saw a few surprising changes at some “why us?” stalwarts. Perhaps most notably, Tulane’s “why us?” essay—which, for many years, famously had an 800-word limit—is now a mere 250. And while last year Tulane had three different robust supplemental essay questions, now it’s just the one. Truly, our jaws are on the floor (yes, at this time of year, this counts as Very Exciting News. We essay editors don’t get out much in August). Equally shocking: no “why Indiana?” question for Indiana University in Bloomington. In fact, no supplement at all! That’s one way to lower the barrier to entry and boost application numbers (just ask Northeastern).

For tips on how to tackle these essay questions, check out our College Essay Hub . And if you’re looking for more in-depth, one-on-one support, reach out to our college admissions team!

Caroline Hertz

Calculate for all schools

Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, advice on u miami supplemental essays.

Hey guys! I'm currently working on my application for the University of Miami, and I'm struggling with their supplemental essays. Anyone have any advice or tips on how to write a strong supplemental essay for this college? Thanks in advance!

Sure, I'd be happy to help! The University of Miami is known for its strong emphasis on research, community involvement, and experiential learning. To write strong supplemental essays for this college, you should focus on aligning your values and experiences with the university's mission and opportunities.

Here are a few tips to consider:

1. Research the school: Browse the University of Miami's website and learn about the specific programs, clubs, or resources that stand out to you. Mentioning these in your essays signals to the admissions committee that you've done your homework and have a genuine interest in attending the university.

2. Demonstrate your fit: Show how the University of Miami's offerings align with your interests, experiences, and future goals. Make connections between your past experiences and the opportunities available on campus. For example, if you've been involved in environmental initiatives, talk about how you could contribute to the university's sustainability efforts.

3. Share personal anecdotes: Use specific examples and personal experiences to illustrate your points. Doing so will enable you to create a more compelling and memorable essay. For instance, if you've worked on a community service project that impacted you, share that story and explain how it shaped your perspective on the importance of giving back to the community.

4. Stay focused and concise: Each supplemental essay has a word limit, so ensure you answer the prompt thoroughly while staying within that limit. Be concise and focused in your writing, and avoid adding unnecessary fluff or tangential information.

5. Revise and edit: Like any piece of writing, your supplemental essays should go through several revisions before submission. Be meticulous in editing your work for grammar, spelling, clarity, and flow. Ideally, ask someone you trust (such as a teacher or counselor) to review your essay and provide you with feedback.

6. Showcase your personality: Use your own voice and tone throughout your essays, allowing your personality to shine through. The admissions committee is looking to get to know you better through your writing, so be yourself.

Remember, the supplemental essays are an opportunity for you to show the University of Miami why you're a great fit for their community and what you can contribute to their campus. By following these tips and tailoring your essays to the school and your experiences, you should be able to write strong supplemental essays that stand out.

Best of luck with your application!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

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Admission Process for Veterans

1. complete the application.

If you have not earned any college credits after high school graduation or are a military/veteran  dependent  who is graduating from high school, you should apply as a first-year student .

If you have taken college credits after high school graduation, regardless of how many credits earned, you should apply as a transfer student  and abide by all transfer deadlines and requirement.

Complete and submit the  Common Application . Upon submitting, you will be asked to pay a $70 nonrefundable application fee. We provide fee waivers for active military members and veterans. Be sure to note your military status on your Common Application  for this waiver to apply . 

In the Common Application, you will be asked to respond to a prompt using 650 words or less. The essay portion of the application gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to develop your thoughts, to communicate them clearly, and to write them concisely conveying your unique voice.

• First-year applicants are asked to respond to one of seven prompts. First-year applicants will also be required to submit a  supplemental essay .
• Transfer applicants are asked to provide a statement that addresses their reasons for transferring and the objective they hope to achieve.  Detailed instructions can be found in the Common Application. 

If applying for Spring or Fall 2024, you will be required to submit a   supplemental essay  of 250 words or less. 

Supplemental essay prompt: 

Located within one of the most dynamic cities in the world, the University of Miami is a distinctive community with a variety of cultures, traditions, histories, languages, and backgrounds. The University of Miami is a values-based and purpose-driven postsecondary institution that embraces diversity and inclusivity in all its forms and strives to create a culture of belonging, where every person feels valued and has an opportunity to contribute.

Please describe how your unique experiences, challenges overcome, or skills acquired would contribute to our distinctive University community.

We also ask that you list your involvement in extracurricular activities, outside of school involvements and/or commitments; these will be evaluated as another factor in the admission process.

Please note : You must use the same email address for every part of the application process, including registering for standardized tests.

Once you submit your application, it will take approximately three days for us to receive and begin processing it. Please allow us several weeks from the application deadline to process your documents. During our busiest application periods,  the Applicant Portal  is your best resource, as we are continually updating students' applications and documents. 

2. Send Official Transcripts

If you are applying as a first-year, submit your official high school transcripts directly from your high school.  If you have attended one or more colleges/universities, please request that your college or high school submit your official transcripts. We will not review transcripts/credits that are indicated as transfer credits to your current institution.  If electronic submission is not possible, these documents can be mailed to one of the following addresses:

Mailing Address University of Miami Office of Undergraduate Admission P.O. Box 249117 Coral Gables, FL 33124-9117   

If sending via FedEx, DHL, UPS, or courier University of Miami Office of Undergraduate Admission 1306 Stanford Drive University Center, Suite 2275 Coral Gables, FL 33146 

3. Complete the College Report

Transfer applicants are required to provide a  College Report   through the  Common Application . This report must be completed by the dean of students office, the registrar’s office, or college official (such as an academic advisor) who has access to your academic and disciplinary records.

4. Letter of Recommendation

If you are applying as a first-year, y ou are required to submit one letter of recommendation/evaluation, which can be from either a school counselor or a teacher.

Transfer applicants have the option to submit an instructor/professor evaluation (letter of recommendation) but it is not required. If you have not been enrolled at a college/university within the past year, you can submit a letter of recommendation from your direct supervisor or commanding officer within your current military unit.

The most expedient way to submit your letter electronically is through the Common Application, Slate.org, Scoir, or Parchment.

*5. Send Reports/Scores

(*Transfers with Fewer Than 30 College Credits)

If you attended an institution outside the military and you've earned fewer than 30 credits, please also submit:

• Official high school transcripts
• Spring and Fall 2023 first-year and transfer applicants with fewer than 30 post-secondary credits at the time they are applying for admission will  not be required  to submit SAT/ACT test scores.
• If you’ve graduated from high school in the past three years, and elect to submit your scores. Have your official scores sent directly from the testing agency. The Admission Committee will consider all official test scores from multiple test dates. We will use the highest composite score from among each test that you've taken. This is called super scoring. There is no limit to the number of test scores you may submit to us for your application.

UM Codes: 

• SAT Code: 5815
• ACT Code: 0760

6. Additional Requirements for Special Programs

If you are applying to any of the programs below, complete the supplemental application, submit a portfolio, and/or schedule an audition.

• Bachelor of Architecture  - Portfolio required if not submitting ACT/SAT scores
• Frost School of Music   - Audition and Supplemental Application Required
• Health Professions Mentoring Program (HPM) *   - Supplemental Application Required
• Theatre Arts B.F.A.   - Audition and Supplemental Application Required

Supplemental applications are available in the applicant portal. Access to the portal will be granted once your admission application is received .

*First-Year applicants only

7. Educational Activities

If you have a time gap of three months or more during your educational career or from the time you graduated high school to the date of your intended University of Miami enrollment, you must submit an Educational Activities statement in the Common Application explaining the reason for the gap(s), including if this was due to your time serving in the military, and include the dates.

If you are unable to provide this information within your Common Application, you can submit it through the applicant portal under the "Materials Upload" section, or by emailing it to  [email protected] . If emailing, be sure to include  “Educational Activities” in the subject line and your full name and date of birth on all correspondence. This information is required to complete your application file.

8. Submit your DD214 Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty

We will award up to six elective credits with the submission of the DD 214 form as long as you were honorably discharged. Please submit via the applicant portal or email to [email protected] . If you are currently serving and do not have your DD 214, please submit this form once you have received it. Once it is processed in our system, your applicant portal will be updated. 

9. Check Your Eligibility for VA Benefits

Every case and every individual is different in terms of your benefits. We recommend speaking to a VA representative by calling the VA Educational Student Hotline at 1-888-442-4551 or by visiting the website at www.va.gov .

10. Check Your Application Status

After submitting your application, please allow 3-4 business days for the University of Miami to receive it. Upon receipt, we’ll send you an acknowledgment email containing your CaneID and instructions about how to log in to the applicant portal. Please remember to check your spam, junk, and clutter folders for this email.

Y ou can check your application status and add all supporting documents through your Applicant Portal. 

After Admission

Once you have been admitted to the University of Miami, the Office of the University Registrar can answer questions regarding your specific benefit chapter and what will be covered by VA.

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73 Best Colleges Without Supplemental Essays – 2024

May 27, 2024

When college application season arrives, it’s easy for students to become overwhelmed about the essays. There’s the personal statement , which many students have a general idea about, and then there are the supplemental essays. Supplemental essays can cover a range of college-specific prompts that help the colleges better understand why you’d be a great fit . Due to how personal and varied the supplemental essays can be, students often end up spending weeks, if not months, writing them.

However, across the country, there are colleges that do not require supplemental essays at all. For some students, applying to colleges without supplemental essays can make the overall application process much smoother. Benefits include experiencing less stress in their application preparation and diversifying prospective colleges while focusing more on their priority schools. Sometimes, though, these schools do ask for program-specific essays or optional essays, depending on the applicant.

Best Colleges without Supplemental Essays

1) albion college.

At Albion College, the application essay is not required, but it is recommended. Students are encouraged to provide any more details that they believe the admissions team should consider.

2) Allegheny College

As noted on their website, Allegheny College has not required the supplemental essay since their 2013-2014 application cycle. Students will find more essay questions in the Member Questions section of the Common Application.

3) Augusta University

Augusta University joins the list of colleges without supplemental essays as they do not require a personal essay at all. They do still require SAT or ACT scores and GPA.

4) Bates College

Since 1984, Bates College has not required SAT Subject Tests or ACT scores in their applications. There is an optional arts supplement for students who are applying to study art, creative writing, dance, film, music, and theater.

5) Case Western Reserve University

At Case Western Reserve University, the Common Application personal essay is required. However, if you’re applying to the Pre-Professional Scholars Program, then you’ll have to write supplemental essays.

Best Colleges Without Supplemental Essays (Continued)

6) clemson university.

Clemson University does not require students to complete a personal essay with the Common or Coalition Application. There is also a test-optional policy that may appeal to some students.

7) Coe College

At Coe College, the personal essay is optional for students who meet the college’s minimum academic standards. Coe College joins the list of colleges without supplemental essays that also have a test-optional policy.

8) Colby College

Colby College accepts the Common Application, Coalition Application, and QuestBridge Application, and they do not have any additional writing supplements. Test scores are optional for applicants at Colby College, and there is no application fee.

9) Colgate University

Colgate University is one of the colleges without supplemental essays required, but there is the option to write them. As stated on their website, “These prompts are not meant to feel like essays; they are simply an added perspective.

10) College of the Holy Cross

College of the Holy Cross does not require supplemental essays, but the following are optional: personal interview, SAT or ACT scores, and supplementary materials.

11) Denison University

Denison University joins this list of colleges without supplemental essays. Their website states that they wish to provide “equal access” to a Denison education, and they are also test-optional.

12) DePaul University

For first-year student applicants at DePaul University, personal essays are not required but optional. They have also been a test-optional university since 2012.

13) Dillard University

Dillard University is the oldest HBCU in Louisiana and is one of the colleges with no supplemental essay requirements. However, if students do not meet the minimum GPA and standardized test score requirements, then they must submit two letters of recommendation and a personal statement.

14) Drew University

At Drew University, a personal statement is required, along with a counselor evaluation, teacher evaluation, and high school transcript.

15) Drexel University

Drexel University joins the list of colleges without supplemental essays. They do require all students to complete the 250 to 650 essay on the Common or Coalition Application. However, the short answer question is optional.

16) Fairleigh Dickinson University

At Fairleigh Dickinson University, all essays, résumés, and recommendations are optional.

17) Florida Gulf Coast University

The only essay required by Florida Gulf Coast University is a two-page personal essay that discusses academic performance, special talents, and what the student can contribute to the campus.

18) Florida State University

Although Florida State University is one of the colleges without supplemental essays, students should invest time into the Common Application personal statement.

19) Fordham University

At Fordham University, the Common Application essay is required, but there are also optional writing sections. If students choose not to write in these sections, they will not be penalized.

20) Franklin and Marshall College

Franklin and Marshall College joins this list of colleges without supplemental essays. They do require the personal essay in the Common Application, as well as standardized test scores, recommendations and other materials.

21) Furman University

At Furman University, first-year applicants do not need to submit a personal essay, and they are also test-optional.

22) Gannon University

Gannon University does not require students to submit a personal statement. It is optional but recommended for students to submit a statement. However, it is required for LECOM 4+4 Medical Program applicants.

23) Gettysburg College

Although Gettysburg College joins the list of colleges without supplemental essays, it does require a personal statement on the Common Application.

24) Grinnell College

Grinnell College does not require supplemental essays and it also does not have an application fee. Standardized test scores are also optional.

25) Hamilton College

Although Hamilton College joins this list of colleges without supplemental essays, the optional essays are still encouraged.

26) Hampshire College

Hampshire College only requires supplemental essays from international students applying as first-year or transfer students.

27) Hanover College

Hanover College states on their website that the essay or personal statement is optional, alongside test scores, letters of recommendation and résumé.

28) Hollins University

At Hollins University, for first-year students no personal statement is required and standardized test scores are optional.

29) Howard University

Howard University requires students to complete the Common Application essay and there is one optional supplemental essay.

30) Indiana University – Bloomington

Students applying to Indiana University – Bloomington must write the one essay in the Common Application or through Apply IU.

31) Kent State University

At Kent State University, first-year students are not required to submit a personal essay or a letter of recommendation. Test scores are also optional.

32) Kenyon College

Kenyon College joins this list as it is one of the colleges without supplemental essays. For first-year and transfer students, test scores are optional and flexible.

33) Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University does require the Common Application personal statement, but as of its most recent admissions cycle, no supplemental essay is required.

34) Mercer University

At Mercer University, applicants who wish to be test-optional must complete the supplemental essays. They must also have a 3.5 GPA and letter of recommendation.

35) Miami University

Miami University, not to be confused with the University of Miami, requires the Common App personal statement but not the supplemental essays.

36) Michigan State University

Michigan State University requires students to write only one essay on the MSU application, Common Application or Coalition Application.

37) Middlebury College

Middlebury College is one of the best colleges without supplemental essays. They do still require the personal statement on the Common Application.

38) Muhlenberg College

Muhlenberg College requires students to submit the personal essay but no other supplemental essays.

39) New College of Florida

New College of Florida is one of the many colleges with no supplemental essays. However, they do still require a personal statement.

40) New Jersey Institute of Technology

New Jersey Institute of Technology only requires a personal statement included in the Common Application. There is no supplemental essay requirement.

41) New York Institute of Technology

Students applying to the New York Institute of Technology are required to write a 300 to 350 word essay as their only essay. They may require test-optional applicants to submit a graded essay.

42) Northeastern University

Northeastern is one of the best colleges without a supplemental essay requirement. They do require a personal statement, alongside other materials.

43) Nova Southeastern University

At Nova Southeastern University, the essay is entirely optional, and students can self-report their test scores.

44) Oberlin College

Oberlin requires a personal statement, but does not require any supplemental essays.

45) Ohio State University

Ohio State University only requires a personal statement. However, they also offer a COVID-19 impact statement on the Common Application for interested students.

46) Ripon College

At Ripon College, the personal statement itself is optional for applicants, along with other materials.

47) Rhodes College

Rhodes College does not require a supplemental essay, but they have the option for students to record an optional “ Elevator Pitch .”

48) Rowan University

Rowan University requires a personal statement in the Common Application, but joins this list as a college without supplemental essays.

49) St. Lawrence University

St. Lawrence University has no supplemental essay requirement, but it still requires the personal statement essay. They are also test-optional, depending on the applicant.

50) St. Mary’s University (San Antonio)

For students applying to St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, the personal statement is only required if they choose not to submit test scores.

51) Seton Hall University

At Seton Hall University, the personal statement is required, but there are no other supplemental essays.

52) Siena College

Siena College has made the personal statement (open topic) optional for students applying.

53) Skidmore College

While Skidmore College does not require supplemental essays, students do often send in supplemental materials to further support their application.

54) Stony Brook University

At Stony Brook University, only a personal statement is required. However, students applying to the Honors, WISE, University Scholars, Scholars for Medicine, and Scholars for Dental Medicine must write supplemental essays.

55) Sewanee: The University of the South

Sewanee does not require supplemental essays and SAT/ACT scores are also optional.

56) Susquehanna University

Susquehanna University only requires supplemental essay materials for students applying to the creative writing, graphic design, studio art, and music programs.

57) Temple University

Temple University offers an optional essay as part of the Common Application for students to tell more about themselves beyond grades or test scores.

58) Union College

Union College does offer an optional supplemental essay question as part of their application.

59) University of Alabama

At the University of Alabama, essay submissions and letters of recommendation are not required but they are optional.

60) University of Albany

University of Albany joins the list as one of the colleges without supplemental essays. However, it does require a personal essay of at least 250 words on the Common Application of SUNY Application.

61) University of Arkansas

At the University of Arkansas, first-year students are not required to submit a personal essay. They accept self-reported test scores and letters of recommendation are also not required.

62) University of Arizona

Although the University of Arizona does not require an application essay, they strongly encourage students to submit the 500-word personal statement.

63) University of Cincinnati

Students applying to the University of Cincinnati are required to write the Cincinnati personal statement and the Common Application personal statement. However, there are no other required essays.

64) University of Colorado-Denver

University of Colorado-Denver requires the personal statement on the Common Application, but not other supplemental essays.

65) University of Connecticut

The University of Connecticut joins this list as one of the best colleges without supplemental essays. The university does require a personal essay on the Common Application or the Coalition Application.

66) University of Dayton

The University of Dayton does not require any supplemental essays, although it does require a personal statement. The university is also test-optional.

67) University of Denver

The University of Denver only requires the personal statement on the Common Application.

68) University of Houston

Students who apply to the University of Houston without a test score must submit a short admissions essay and extracurricular activities.

69) University of Iowa

The University of Iowa does require a personal statement as part of their application, but there is no supplemental essay requirement.

70) University of Kansas

The University of Kansas is a college without supplemental essay requirements for first-year students. However, students applying to the Honors Program or the Engineering SELF Program must submit their responses.

71) University of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky requires students to write one personal statement from seven of their given writing prompts.

72) University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

For first-year students applying to the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, the personal essay is not required, although it is encouraged.

73) University of Nebraska-Lincoln

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln does not require a personal statement for first-year students. However, those applying to the Honors Program must write a 300-600 word essay.

Whether for the personal statement or any supplemental essay, writing college application essays can prove to be a challenging task. But if students plan ahead about how they want to approach the essays, it helps tremendously. Those who are about to apply to a college without supplemental essays can focus any extra time on other schools that do require them. It’s also great for students who wish to be considered primarily for their grades, test scores, personal statement and other reasons.

Best Colleges Without Supplemental Essays – Additional Resources 

• 10 Instructive Common App Essay Examples 
• How to Write a Body Paragraph for a College Essay
• UC Essay Examples
• Good Safety Schools
• College Search/Knowledge

Joanna Hong

With a BA from Pitzer College and an MA from University College London, Joanna has worked in London, Berlin, and Los Angeles covering many cultural and political issues with organizations such as Byline Media, NK News, and Free Turkey Media. A freelancer for The New York Times, her work has also appeared in Newsweek, Dazed and Confused Magazine, and The Guardian, among others. In addition, Joanna was the recipient of the 2021 PEN America Emerging Voices Fellowship in Fiction and is currently completing her first novel.

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College of Business

How to nail your scholarship application essay.

When it comes to applying for scholarships, the task can be immediately overwhelming. Where do you find scholarships? How do you apply? What do they each require? This is going to take forever!

But at Colorado State, we do things a little differently. We’re so proud of our one-and-done scholarship application process. Almost all CSU scholarships live in the same place, and can be applied for with one application, one time, and that’s it. The Colorado State University Scholarship Application (CSUSA) takes a big hurdle out of your path right off the bat. Completing the CSUSA enters you for nearly every scholarship at CSU that you’re eligible for. Now all you have to do is nail that application essay … and we’re here to make that part easy, too. Here are some insider info, tips, and even a few essay excerpts to help you as you tackle your essay.

#1. It’s less formal than you think

Did you know that your scholarship application essay is meant to help us see the most-authentic version of you, your journey, and your goals? We’re not looking for a formal essay here. You won’t need to analyze anything, look for metaphors, or even write a structured outline when you start (but you can if it helps you).

The essay prompt might ask you to tell your story, highlight your ambitions, and explain how you see yourself succeeding in this big ol’ world. Essay prompts range from what kind of career you see yourself in, and how college might help you get there. They might ask you to describe a challenging event, explain how you navigated it, and how it inspires you to go forward in life. The essay is so much more your story than anything else. The more YOU you are, the better. Don’t worry too much about intros, transitions, structure, or formal conclusion paragraphs when you first sit down to write. Let it flow and be you.

• Tip : Write your first draft like you’re talking to your best friend, your favorite teacher, your mentor, your coach. Your voice/tone should be genuine, passionate, and infused with the vibe you’d give if you were telling your biggest dreams to your biggest cheerleaders. We’re rooting for you here.

#2. Vulnerability is your superpower here

Perhaps the biggest tool in your toolbox when it comes to writing a genuine, powerful essay is your willingness to be vulnerable. While vulnerability may seem like a weakness in some arenas, it’s your superpower in the scholarship application essay. So what exactly is it, and how can you use it to your advantage?

Vulnerability, by definition, is the willingness to show emotion or to allow one’s weaknesses to be seen or known. There can be some risk involved in being vulnerable, and that’s often why it has such a big impact. You’re essentially giving away your armor, and that allows you to create connection at a deep, emotional level. To put vulnerability to work in a story or experience, try to remember how you felt in that moment, and what was running through your head. Instead of just recounting events as they happened, retell them as YOU experienced them. Let emotion guide your story instead of rehashing a timeline of events. The story, told as it moved through you, is what makes the connection.

• Tip : As you recount an event or moment in your essay, try to incorporate the senses. What did you see, hear, smell, feel? Let emotion be your guide, but paint the picture fully.

#3. Word choice matters (and not in the way you might think)

One question you should ask yourself as you draft your essay is if the words you’re using actually suit you. Would you use these actual words if you were talking to someone? One thing that can derail your authenticity in writing is trying to use big or “impressive” words that wouldn’t naturally flow from you in your daily life. We’re not saying you shouldn’t use a thesaurus, but be choosy. If the word doesn’t “fit” you when you’re casually speaking, we’re going to feel that in your essay, too.

• Tip : Read your essay aloud while recording yourself. Does it flow? Are there words that you stumble over as you read them? If so, put those words into the thesaurus and see if anything comes up that doesn’t trip you up as you read. It should feel as natural to read it as it would if you were talking to a friend.

#4. Always, always, always get a proofreader (or two)

While it’s not the most-glamorous advice, we cannot stress enough the importance of having someone — and, preferably, multiple someones — review your essay. Even the most-seasoned professional writer will make errors, even after multiple drafts. Typos, missing words, tense errors, and even disorganized thoughts can distract readers from your beautiful, unique story. Our advice is to find a proofreader who can dial in your punctuation and grammar, and another who can help you with the more-subtle aspects of good writing, like flow, tone, and structure. You want to start and end strong, plus have a robust, visually and emotionally stimulating middle.

• Tip : Draft your first version raw without any expectations of yourself. Answer the essay prompt as if you’re writing in your journal. Then find a reliable proofreader (preferably outside the house, like a teacher) to help you level it up and polish it up. After you’ve done a little spiff, show it to a second proofreader. Fresh eyes mean everything.

Some essay excerpts to inspire you

Ready to learn more about the csu scholarship process.

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Prairie Smallwood

Prairie Smallwood is a writer and content creator for the Office of Admissions at Colorado State University. She is passionate about education and exploration, and knows that going to college can be both an adventure and an overwhelming experience. She aims to create content that helps students through that journey — the wonderful, the scary, and everything in between.