bowdoin college essay prompts

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How to Respond to the 2023/2024 Bowdoin College Supplemental Essay Prompts

Cait Williams is a Content Writer at Scholarships360. Cait recently graduated from Ohio University with a degree in Journalism and Strategic Communications. During her time at OU, was active in the outdoor recreation community.

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The Bowdoin College supplemental essays may look a bit intimidating at first. After all, there are four of them and they’re not exactly traditional questions. Only two of the four prompts are mandatory, but optional essays are important if Bowdoin is your top choice.

So, let’s see what the school is all about, and dig into each of the Bowdoin College supplemental essays!

Bowdoin’s mission

Located in Brunswick, Maine, Bowdoin’s campus looks like it’s something out of a novel. Their goal is to create a diverse learning environment by actively working to admit students of all backgrounds through their need blind application process. 

“Offer to College”

Unique to Bowdoin College is what they call the “Offer of the College.” The Offer was written in 1906 by Bowdoin’s seventh president, William DeWitt Hyde. In this statement, Hyde outlines what Bowdoin promises to offer their students during their time in college. Bowdoin wants their students to know that they are committed to providing the resources, community, and faculty needed to achieve their goals.

Bowdoin’s philosophy to learning

Studying abroad and real life application of the learning you do are key components that Bowdoin encourages all of their students to be a part of. They know that while classroom education provides a vital foundation, so does pushing students to take the reins and get out in the world! In addition to education, they are also committed to the natural environment around them and the preservation of their historic campus. 

With this context, we can now jump into our supplemental essay prompts!

The Bowdoin supplemental essay prompt 

Generations of students have found connection and meaning in Bowdoin’s “The Offer of the College.” To be at home in all lands and all ages; to count Nature a familiar acquaintance, and Art an intimate friend; to gain a standard for the appreciation of others’ work and the criticism of your own; to carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket, and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake; to make hosts of friends…who are to be leaders in all walks of life; to lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends – this is the offer of the college for the best four years of your life. -William DeWitt Hyde, 7th President of Bowdoin College, 1906 Which line from The Offer resonates most with you? (Select an option.) To be at home in all lands and all ages To count Nature a familiar acquaintance… …and Art an intimate friend To gain a standard for the appreciation of others’ work and the criticism of your own To carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket, and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake To make hosts of friends… who are to be leaders in all walks of life To lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends

Bowdoin is going outside of the box with this essay prompt! First off, it’s actually not much of an essay. They want you to read the above quote lines and choose what line resonates with you most. Pretty simple, right?

Well, it seems simple. However, there are two things you should think about before just choosing a random line and pressing copy and paste. 

• First, “The Offer” is an integral piece of Bowdoin’s history. Their website has more information about where this quote came from and why it has become so important. So, take some time to do a little research before answering. 
• Second, it’s true that there is no right or wrong answer to this question, however, you should still be putting some deep thinking behind your answer. Putting in the work upfront always pays off. As soon as you move on from this question, you’ll see why.

How to choose a line from the quote?

So, how do you go about actually choosing a line from this quote? We recommend you start by reading this quote once through in its entirety. As you read, take note of any lines that jump out at you or stick in your head. After, go back and look at the lines you have noted and make sure you understand what the speaker is saying. Once you’ve done so, you will have your answer! 

Optional essay prompt that expands upon line from the offer you chose

The Offer represents Bowdoin’s values. Please reflect on the line you selected and how it has meaning to you. (Limit 250 words)

Here’s where that critical thinking and research you just did a few minutes ago pays off. This essay might say “optional,” but if you’re seriously considering Bowdoin, this prompt is far from optional. 

This question is a great way to show your values to Bowdoin! And guess what? You don’t have to talk about your major or career goals at all. All you have to do is talk about your answer to the previous prompt. Do you want to talk about what the arts mean to you or how important adding to the community around you will be? Go for it! 

Remember, your response is limited to 250 words. So, take your time and think carefully about what you want to share. There is no right or wrong answer here–simply expand upon the answer you chose for the previous prompt. Strive to be as genuine and purposeful as you can, and you’ll be just fine.

Additional resources  

Once you’ve finished the Bowdoin College supplemental essays, give yourself a pat on the back! But remember, your admissions process is far from over. Luckily, we have some tools to help you through it. We offer a number of free and informative articles to help you through the college admissions process. Here are some to get started:

• 10 Tips for successful college applications
• How to answer the Common App essay prompts
• What Does “Test Optional” Mean ?

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How to Write the Bowdoin Supplemental Essays

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 8/14/23

If you’re applying to Bowdoin, you’ll need to know how to tackle their supplemental essay. Read on to learn more about the Bowdoin prompt, how to answer it, and to see examples to draw inspiration from!

The Bowdoin supplemental essay is optional, but you’re highly encouraged to answer it, as it serves as an additional platform to showcase your personality, passions, and unique perspective beyond what your application already covers.

It's an opportunity to strengthen your application further and demonstrate how your values align with the college's community and mission! So, now that we’ve convinced you to write this optional essay , let’s delve into how to ensure your essay stands out and leaves a lasting impression on the admissions committee!

Bowdoin Essay Prompt

Bowdoin only has one supplemental essay prompt :

“The Offer of the College represents Bowdoin’s values. You have the option to reflect on the line selected and how it has meaning to you. Here is the Offer :

Generations of students have found connection and meaning in Bowdoin’s ‘The Offer of the College.’

To be at home in all lands and all ages;

To count Nature a familiar acquaintance, and Art an intimate friend;

To gain a standard for the appreciate of others’ work

And the criticism of your own;

To carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket,

And feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake;

To make hosts of friends…Who are to be leaders in all walks of life;

To lose yourself in generous enthusiasms

And cooperate with others for common ends -

This is the offer of the college for the best four years of your life.”

Your answer to this prompt must be short! With a 250-word limit , it’s crucial you keep your response focused, precise, and to the point!

How to Write the Bowdoin Supplemental Essay

So, how do you ensure you make the most out of these 250 words? Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to crafting a compelling and concise essay!

Step One: Fully Understand "The Offer"

Before you begin crafting your Bowdoin supplemental essay response, read “the Offer” several times to truly immerse yourself in it. Take time to understand the profound values and ideals the poem aims to capture.

Go beyond the surface meaning and try to read between the lines, discerning the deeper values and ideals that underpin Bowdoin's educational philosophy. 

Step Two: Choose the Line that Speaks to Your Soul

As the prompt states, you can only choose one line to center your answer on, so choose wisely! Among these inspiring lines, one must have resonated with you on a deeper level. 

Listen to your intuition to select the line that encapsulates your aspirations and reasons for applying to Bowdoin. Perhaps it's the longing "to be at home in all lands and all ages," or the desire to "carry the keys of the world's library in your pocket." Trust your instincts and choose the line that evokes a genuine emotional response within you.

Do not simply choose the line that you believe will be the easiest to explain. Choose the path less traveled to show off your impressive critical thinking and writing skills!

Step Three: Reflect on the Meaning Behind Your Chosen Line

Now comes the moment of reflection. Delve into the reasons behind your connection to the chosen line. Explore how it has influenced your personal growth, shaped your worldview, or sparked a passion within you. 

Briefly share personal anecdotes or experiences that illustrate the impact this line has had on your life. Be vulnerable and sincere in expressing why this line speaks to your soul! But, keep the word limit in mind. 

Do not create a laundry list of all the experiences that tie into this line. Choose one or two that stick out the most and focus on connecting these experiences to your chosen line. 

Step Four: Make Your Essay Personal and Vivid

As you write your essay, remember that authenticity is key. Infuse your response with your unique voice, style, and personality. Use vivid language, descriptive imagery, and storytelling to bring your essay to life. 

Captivate the reader with your insightful reflections and consider showing instead of just telling!

Step Five: Connect with Bowdoin's Values

Your response should not only showcase your personal connection to the chosen line but also demonstrate your alignment with Bowdoin's values and mission. Illustrate how your chosen line reflects the shared ideals and principles between you and Bowdoin. 

Emphasize how Bowdoin's vibrant intellectual community and commitment to diversity resonate deeply with your own values and aspirations and show that you’ve deeply considered your college choice!

Step Six: Emphasize Your Potential Contributions

Bowdoin seeks students who will make meaningful contributions to its community. Articulate how your chosen line reflects your potential contributions to Bowdoin's campus life, academic pursuits, and extracurricular involvements. 

Highlight how your passion for exploration, collaboration, and leadership can enrich the Bowdoin experience for all. Share one or two concrete examples of how you plan to engage with Bowdoin's resources, programs, and organizations.

Step Seven: Remember to Keep It Concise

While you may be overwhelmed by how many attributes you should add to your essay, know that each component should only be a couple of sentences long! Keep your ideas as concise as possible, and avoid using unnecessary language that will waste valuable space!

Step Eight: Edit, Edit, Edit

Once you've poured your thoughts onto the page, take a step back and revise your essay. Reread your response with a critical eye, ensuring clarity and coherence.

Trim any repetitive parts and focus on conveying your ideas concisely. Use strong and effective language to make your points, and ensure that your essay flows smoothly from start to finish. 

Don’t be afraid to start over if you feel like your essay fails to convey your voice! You may need to write multiple drafts until you’re confident you’ve written the best essay possible!

Step Nine: Seek Feedback and Refine

Share your essay with trusted individuals—friends, family, or teachers. Seek their honest feedback and insights. Embrace constructive criticism and use it to refine and strengthen your response. 

A fresh set of eyes is more likely to catch mistakes, pick up on awkward sentences, and offer ways to further polish your essay!

Step Ten: Stay True to Yourself

As you write your Bowdoin supplemental essay, remember that this essay is an opportunity to showcase your authentic self. Don't feel pressured to conform or write what you think the admissions committee wants to hear. Be genuine, celebrate your individuality, and let your true self shine through in every word!

Bowdoin Supplemental Essay Examples

Here are some compelling Bowdoin supplemental essay examples to act as aids in your writing journey!

Example One

"I’ve called several places home over the last 10 years. First, it was my birthplace Kerala, then Delhi, briefly Yanbu, and finally Maine. Accordingly, the line “To be at home in all lands and all ages" resonates with me profoundly. This line encapsulates my journey of embracing diverse cultures, bridging gaps between traditions, and finding a sense of belonging in unfamiliar territories.

I have faced the challenge of adapting to new environments several times, and this line reminded me of the value in cultivating a global perspective. Moreover, this line reminds me of the importance of immersing myself in the cultural tapestry of my surroundings. By embracing diversity, I discovered a shared humanity that binds us all together. This understanding has influenced my academic pursuits, leading me to explore courses that delve into the histories and traditions of different societies.

As an immigrant, I recognize the privilege of having access to a wealth of knowledge and perspectives from around the globe. This drives me to seize every chance to learn and contribute, embracing education as a means of breaking down barriers and making a positive impact in the world.

"To be at home in all lands and all ages" encapsulates my immigrant experience—a journey of growth, intercultural understanding, and embracing the richness of diverse perspectives. Embracing this ethos, I am eager to contribute to Bowdoin's vibrant community, to learn from and with my peers, and to be a bridge-builder between cultures and ideas for the betterment of our shared future."

Why It Works

This Bowdoin supplemental essay works for several reasons:

• Engaging introduction : The essay starts with a captivating introduction that immediately grabs the reader's attention. This creates a sense of curiosity and sets the stage for discussing the line that resonates with them the most.
• Addresses the prompt : They respond to the prompt by stating that the line "To be at home in all lands and all ages" profoundly resonates with the applicant. Students often get distracted by the essay itself and forget to follow the prompt! They often discuss more than one line or analyse the entire poem!
• Includes personal experiences : The applicant delves into their personal experience as an immigrant, explaining how they have adapted to multiple environments and cultures. They link this experience to the idea of cultivating a global perspective, emphasizing the importance of embracing diversity.
• Shares their academic goals : The essay discusses how the line relates to the applicant's academic pursuits of exploring courses that delve into the histories of different societies. This shows their commitment to broadening their understanding and engaging with diverse perspectives.
• Recognizes the applicant’s privilege and purpose : It demonstrates the applicant's awareness of the privilege they have as an immigrant with access to a wealth of knowledge from around the world. It shows their driven approach to education, viewing it as a tool for breaking down barriers and making an impact.
• Embraces Bowdoin’s values : Throughout the essay, the applicant repeatedly emphasizes how the line aligns with their values and beliefs, encapsulating their growth, intercultural understanding, and commitment to embracing diverse perspectives. This demonstrates a genuine connection to the college's mission.
• Looks forward : The essay concludes by expressing the applicant's eagerness to contribute to Bowdoin's vibrant community, learn from their peers, and be a bridge-builder between cultures and ideas. This forward-looking approach showcases their enthusiasm for being a part of Bowdoin's community.

Overall, this response is well-structured, concise, and directly addresses the prompt. It effectively communicates the applicant's unique experiences, values, and aspirations, making a compelling case for why they are an ideal fit for Bowdoin College!

Example Two

“Knowledge is what separates good doctors from excellent ones. If you want to be an excellent physician, Delilah, you need to apply yourself and commit to learning.” These are the words that have stuck with me since I received my first D in my freshman year Biology class after I admittedly gave my studies 70% of my attention instead of 100%.  

Ever since that pivotal moment, my attention has been directed towards the unwavering pursuit of knowledge and continuous learning, which is why the line “To carry the keys of the world's library in your pocket" resonates with me.

In the vast realm of medicine, knowledge is not only power but also the key to unlocking doors that lead to healing and understanding. The library, in this context, symbolizes the wealth of medical knowledge and resources that I aim to carry with me throughout my academic pursuits and professional career.

This line represents a lifelong commitment to learning and continuous improvement. In the rapidly evolving field of medicine, staying abreast of new discoveries and advancements is essential. As a pre-med Bowdoin student, I aspire to immerse myself in the vast resources available to me, forge meaningful connections with like-minded peers and mentors, and ultimately become a healthcare leader who makes a positive impact on the lives of patients and the broader community. 

Bowdoin's values of intellectual curiosity, service, and leadership align seamlessly with my aspirations, and I eagerly anticipate embracing this enriching academic environment."

This answer to the Bowdoin supplemental essay prompt works exceptionally well because it showcases the applicant's personal connection to the college's core values and future aspirations. Here are the most successful parts of this essay:

• Captivating hook : The essay uses a unique hook by sharing harsh words spoken to them by a teacher that has stuck with them and influenced their perspective on learning.
• Passion and commitment : The essay exudes a genuine passion for the medical field and emphasizes the applicant's unwavering commitment to continuous learning. This passion is evident in their determination to “carry the keys of the world's library” and seek knowledge to become the best physician.
• Reflective and self-aware : The applicant demonstrates a high level of self-awareness by acknowledging their past academic challenges and using them as a catalyst for growth. This reflective aspect of the essay adds depth to their character and showcases their ability to learn from experiences.
• Clear career goals : By stating their aspiration to become a healthcare leader who positively impacts patients and the broader community, the applicant presents a clear vision of their future role in the medical field. This clarity highlights their sense of purpose and commitment to making a difference.
• Involves Bodwon’s mission : Throughout the essay, the applicant aligns their personal values and ambitions with Bowdoin's mission, emphasizing how they will actively contribute to and enrich the college's academic and social environment.
• Unique voice : The applicant's writing style and voice add a personal touch to the essay, making it stand out and allowing the admissions committee to connect with their story on a deeper level.
• Evident research and understanding : The essay showcases the applicant's research and knowledge of Bowdoin's values, illustrating that they have taken the time to understand the college's culture and align themselves accordingly.

This essay has an engaging narrative that demonstrates the student’s passion and interests. It shows clear direction and effectively demonstrates their potential to thrive in Bowdoin's community!

FAQs: Bowdoin Supplemental Essay

For any remaining questions about the Bowdoin supplemental essay, read on to find your answers!

1. How Many Supplemental Essays Does Bowdoin Require?

There is only one optional Bowdoin supplemental essay.

2. How Important Is the Bowdoin Supplemental Essay?

Since the supplemental essay is optional, it won’t necessarily make or break your application. However, writing the essay can be beneficial as it will demonstrate the following:

• Interest and fit : Writing the supplemental essay shows that the applicant has taken the time to research Bowdoin and understand its values and culture. By addressing specific aspects of the college in their essay, applicants can demonstrate their genuine interest in attending Bowdoin and fit.
• Personal insight : Applicants can provide a more personal and nuanced perspective of themselves beyond what can be conveyed through test scores and academic records. It offers an opportunity for students to share their unique experiences, aspirations, and challenges. 
• Differentiation : The application process is highly competitive, and many applicants have strong academic records and extracurricular achievements . A well-crafted supplemental essay can set an applicant apart from others, helping them stand out as a unique and compelling candidate.
• Writing skills : The supplemental essay evaluates an applicant's writing skills, clarity of thought, and ability to articulate ideas concisely. Effective communication is a valuable skill in college, and the essay provides a platform for applicants to showcase their proficiency in this area.

Ultimately, the Bowdoin supplemental essay lets applicants present themselves beyond their academic credentials and convey their unique qualities and aspirations!

2. How Long Should the Bowdoin Supplemental Essay Be?

You have a 250-word limit on your Bowdoin essay, and you’ll likely need to reach this maximum to fully explain the meaning of your chosen line! 

3. How Do I Ensure My Bowdoin Supplemental Essay Stands Out?

Here are some tips to make your Bowdoin essay shine:

• Make it personal : Start by genuinely reflecting on the quote from "The Offer of the College" and how it resonates with your own experiences and values. Make a personal connection to the quote and let your passion for the topic shine through in your writing.
• Open with a hook : Start your essay with an intriguing hook that will urge the admissions committee to read on. Consider using a quote that resonates with you, a short anecdote that relates to your story, or a philosophy you live by!
• Offer a unique perspective : Avoid generic responses and focus on what makes your perspective and story unique. Consider what sets you apart from other applicants and how your experiences have shaped your aspirations and values.
• Avoid vagueness : Use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate your points. Show, don't just tell the admissions committee about your journey and how you embody the values expressed in the quote. Be descriptive and think outside of the box!
• Share your goals : Use the essay as an opportunity to highlight your future goals and how your time at Bowdoin will help you achieve them. Emphasize how the college's resources, community, and values align with your aspirations.
• Be authentic : Write in your own voice and be true to yourself. Avoid trying to fit into any preconceived mold of what an applicant "should" be like. Let your personality and passions come through in your writing.
• Avoid clichés : Stay away from overused phrases or clichés—the admissions committee has seen it all before and won’t be impressed. Instead, strive for originality and sincerity in expressing your thoughts and feelings.

By following these tips, you can create a standout Bowdoin supplemental essay that showcases your unique qualities and ability to fit in at this college!

Final Thoughts

Now you've got the tools to craft an amazing Bowdoin supplemental essay that truly reflects who you are and what you’re passionate about! Each line will mean something different to you, so take your time to decide which one to focus on and ensure your personality is highlighted throughout!

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Writing the Bowdoin College Supplemental Essays

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2023-2024 Bowdoin College Supplemental Essays

Previously Published on July 23, 2013:

Bowdoin College has released its essays for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle. In addition to The Common Application ’s Personal Statement, applicants to Bowdoin’s Class of 2028 will be required to write one supplemental essay of up to 250 words. Applicants are also offered the chance — although it’s deemed “ optional ” — to write an additional supplemental essay of up to 250 words and submit a video. Of course, nothing deemed optional in elite college admissions should ever be interpreted as optional. So, what are this year’s essay prompts?

2023-2024 Bowdoin Essay Topics and Video

Required essay.

The first essay prompt, which is required of all Bowdoin applicants to the Class of 2028, reads as follows:

Generations of students have found connection and meaning in Bowdoin’s “The Offer of the College,” written in 1906 by Bowdoin President William DeWitt Hyde.

To be at home in all lands and all ages;

to count nature a familiar acquaintance,

and Art an intimate friend;

to gain a standard for the appreciation of others’ work

and the criticism of your own;

to carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket,

and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake;

to make hosts of friends…who are to be leaders in all walks of life;

to lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends –

this is the offer of the college for the best four years of your life.

Which line from The Offer resonates most with you?*

• To be at home in all lands and all ages
• To count nature a familiar acquaintance……and Art an intimate friend
• To gain a standard for the appreciation of others’ work and the criticism of your own
• To carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket, and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake
• To make hosts of friends… who are to be leaders in all walks of life
• To lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends

The Offer of the College , a staple of the Bowdoin supplement, makes for a beautiful essay prompt — one of the most memorable of any school’s for applicants to the Class of 2028.

It offers students the opportunity to write about their appreciation of nature. After all, Bowdoin is situated in picturesque Maine. Or students can write about how they will admire the work and thinking of their fellow students and be open to receiving feedback on their own work. Or students can write about their love of all they can learn from books. Or what they’ll value in their relationships with their fellow students. The possibilities are endless.

Optional Essay

The second essay prompt, which is optional for applicants to respond to in up to 250 words, reads as follows:

Bowdoin believes that only through building a more diverse and inclusive campus community will the College best prepare graduates to be contributing and useful citizens of the world. Every graduate of this institution should be confident in their preparation to be able to navigate through differences and in all sorts of situations. A Bowdoin education does not guarantee these skills, but it does impart a set of tools necessary to bravely enter unfamiliar conditions with the confidence to deal effectively with ambiguity.

If you wish, you may share anything about the unique experiences and perspectives that you would bring with you to the Bowdoin campus and community or an experience you have had that required you to navigate across or through difference.

This second essay prompt is a straight-up-the-middle community essay. While the United States Supreme Court outlawed the practice of Affirmative Action , Chief Justice John Roberts penned a loophole in the majority opinion .

Chief Justice Roberts wrote, “Nothing in this opinion should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicant’s discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise.”

The loophole led many schools, including Bowdoin, to ask applicants to write about their backgrounds, experiences, or where they come from to demonstrate how they will contribute to Bowdoin’s diversity.

Optional Video

Bowdoin College extends you the opportunity to add a video response to your application materials. Instructions for completing the optional video response will be available in your application acknowledgment email and in your Bowdoin Application Portal.  Learn more about it.

The video essay does not have to be extremely well-edited. In fact, we at Ivy Coach strongly discourage applicants from making any fancy schmancy adjustments to their videos as it will only reek of privilege, rendering them less likable.

While applicants should prepare their answer in advance, they should not sound rehearsed. So, it should sound like the student is speaking off the cuff — but their response, which should showcase their intellectual curiosity and not repeat anything they’ve written about previously, should be planned out in advance.

Ivy Coach’s Assistance with Bowdoin Essays and Video

If you’re interested in optimizing your case for admission to Bowdoin by submitting compelling essays and a video that sways admissions officers to root for you, fill out Ivy Coach ’s free consultation form , and we’ll be in touch to outline our college admissions counseling services for seniors.

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Bowdoin College Essay Guide 2020-2021

Bowdoin College is a classic New England liberal arts college located in Brunswick, Maine, just 3 miles from the ocean, 30 minutes from Portland, and 2 hours from Boston. Bowdoin has a total enrollment of approximately 1800 students, putting each class a little under 500. The tiny size fosters a warm and close-knit community and incredible access to academic and extracurricular resources.

Bowdoin often tops the charts in rankings, both among liberal arts colleges for its academic prowess and student satisfaction, as well as topping national lists for its delicious food! Last year, the acceptance rate sank below 9%, and the college continues to become more competitive every year. The caliber of students admitted to Bowdoin is formidable, but the college does a fantastic job of keeping competitive energy to a minimum. Students feel motivated to compete with themselves far more than with their classmates.

Bowdoin has a breadth of strong departments, notably Government, Environmental Science, Africana Studies, and Neuroscience. The college offers an Arctic Studies program, born from the legacy of Arctic exploration among early twentieth century alumni, and has an unparalleled coastal studies program. The college boasts two coastal studies labs, one just 20 minutes from campus on Orr’s Island, and one in the Bay of Fundy in Canada, which has some of the most extreme tides in the world. The college’s position on the coast and accompanying commitment to studying the fascinating and varied coastal ecosystems demonstrates its remarkable commitment to place.

Bowdoin is an exceptional school and combines a fantastic array of academic pursuits with a tremendous commitment to the community. The school continues to grow its endowment and shrink its admission rate, and this dynamic energy will only propel the college to new heights. 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 2020-2021 Bowdoin College Essay Guide, click here .

Bowdoin College Essay Prompts:

Required: how did you first learn about bowdoin (140 characters).

This essay is not an essay at all, but a sentence. Don’t worry too much about it – the admissions office wants to know how to reach students in the future and is trying to learn from you. If you have a fun connection to Bowdoin, like a friend or relative who is a student, definitely mention it, but if you just found Bowdoin through your college counselor or online, that’s absolutely fine to say too.

Optional: The Offer represents Bowdoin’s values. Please reflect on the line you selected and how it has meaning to you. (250 words)

TO BE AT HOME in all lands and all ages;

To count Nature a familiar acquaintance, and Art an intimate friend;

To gain a standard for the appreciation of others’ work

And the criticism of your own;

To carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket,

And feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake;

To make the hosts of friends… Who are to be leaders in all walks of life;

To lose yourself in generous enthusiasms

And cooperate with others for common ends –

This is the offer of the college for the best four years of your life.”

Adapted from the original “Offer of the College”

by William DeWitt Hyde, President of Bowdoin College 1885-1917

The Offer of the College, quoted above in full, is a central pillar of Bowdoin’s understanding of itself and comes up a lot throughout the Bowdoin College experience. This prompt is a great opportunity for you to reflect on why Bowdoin is right for you, and to find something specific that stands out to you about Bowdoin.

You could approach the prompt in a number of ways. The most obvious is to choose a line from the Offer that relates to your academic interests. Interested in English? Talk about carrying the keys of the world’s library in your pocket. Passionate about environmental science? Expound upon your desire to count Nature a familiar acquaintance.

Another way to approach the prompt is by relating a line from the Offer to your extracurricular interests, particularly those that serve the common good or are service-oriented. The concept of “generous enthusiasms” is a big deal at Bowdoin, and choosing that line to speak to your passion for working with children or your interest in advocating for increased accessibility in the classroom, to name two examples, could be a great option.

The Offer as a whole is an articulation of what Bowdoin hopes it will give you to take beyond your college graduation, so remember to ground your essay in the big picture . If you hope to study English, why? What will you do? If you love working with kids, how will you make that happen, and why do you think it’s important? Think big. That said, this essay is only 250 words. That’s just about two paragraphs, which is not enough time to lay out your greatest goals and aspirations. If you have trouble picking just one line, that’s a good thing – it means the Offer resonates with you! Keep your essay brief, but your enthusiasm big . This essay is optional but DEFINITELY submit it . It is a short and sweet opportunity to express your specific interest in what makes Bowdoin special.

This essay guide was written by Eliza Goodpasture , Bowdoin College Class of 2018. If you want to get help writing your application essays from Eliza or other CollegeAdvisor.com Admissions Experts , register with CollegeAdvisor.com today.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, thoughts on bowdoin's application process.

Hey everyone! I'm looking into Bowdoin and I was wondering if they have any supplemental essays as part of their application. Thanks in advance!

Hello! Bowdoin College does have supplemental essay prompts as part of their application process. CollegeVine has a breakdown of all the prompts to help you write the best essays you can. You can find this breakdown here: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-bowdoin-college-essays

When responding to this prompt, it's important to choose a line that resonates with you personally and provide a thoughtful explanation on how it relates to your interests, experiences, or aspirations. Good 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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Bowdoin College essay prompts

How to Write the Bowdoin College Essay 2021-2022 Bowdoin College , College Essays , Essay Breakdowns , Essay Guides 2021-22 7 min read

How to Write the Bowdoin College Essay 2020-2021 Bowdoin College , College Essays , Essay Breakdowns , Essay Guides 2020-21 7 min read

How to Write the Bowdoin College Essay 2019-2020 Bowdoin College , College Essays , Essay Breakdowns , Essay Guides 2019-20 7 min read

How to Write the Bowdoin College Supplement Essays 2018-2019 12th Grade , Bowdoin College , College Essays , Essay Breakdowns , Essay Breakdowns 9 min read

How to Write the Bowdoin College Supplement Essays 2017-2018 College Essays , Essay Breakdowns 6 min read

Bowdoin College 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Guide

Early Decision: Nov 15

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 5

You Have: 

Bowdoin College 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: One essay of 250 words, one essay of 650 words, and one short answer of 140 characters.

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Oddball , Short Answer , Diversity

Don’t let the looks of this short, quirky supplement fool you: it will push you as a writer. But why should we expect any less from one of the best liberal arts colleges (according to US News and World Report )? To tackle this tricky supplement, give yourself plenty of time to think, tinker, and wordsmith.

How did you first learn about Bowdoin? (Limit 140 characters.)

Who knew 140 characters would still be relevant in a world of #longtweets? In case you don’t remember the prehistoric days of Twitter’s more limited character count, we’ll give you a tip: 140 characters is still enough space to write a full (if succinct) sentence. In other words, this short answer question is still an opportunity for you to show admissions a glimmer of personality or new information. Your answer should go beyond simply the name of the person or publication that first informed you of Bowdoin’s existence. In fact, you might even be able to sneak in one of the key reasons you’re applying. If your dad is an alum, maybe you can explain how you grew up hearing stories about this paradise in Maine. Or maybe you’re a hockey player with a penchant for poetry and your English teacher encouraged you to pursue both at Bowdoin. Believe it or not, each of those sentences came in under the character count!

Generations of students have found connection and meaning in Bowdoin’s “The Offer of the College.”

To be at home in all lands and all ages;, to count nature a familiar acquaintance,, and art an intimate friend;, to gain a standard for the appreciation of others’ work, and the criticism of your own;, to carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket,, and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake;, to make hosts of friends…who are to be leaders in all walks of life;, to lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends –, this is the offer of the college for the best four years of your life., -william dewitt hyde, 7th president of bowdoin college, 1906, which line from the offer resonates most with you (select an option.).

Bet you weren’t expecting to take an English exam on your application! This is really a two question prompt, so skip down to the next question for our full walkthrough.

Optional: The Offer represents Bowdoin’s values. Please reflect on the line you selected and how it has meaning to you. (Limit 250 words)

Gotcha! This optional prompt (as is the case with most optional prompts) is not optional in our eyes. It’s a key opportunity for you to tell admissions more about who you are, so take it! Plus, if you answer the first question, you ought to be able to defend your answer in the second. So here’s another crucial tip: although Bowdoin has given you a multiple choice question, there’s actually no right answer. Or rather, the only right answer is the one you choose genuinely, and without overthinking it. We know it might sound out there, but go with your gut. What line leaps out at you right away? Which lines connect with your life? Us, personally? We love the idea of “the keys of the world’s library,” a line you could take quite literally or more figuratively. A student writing about this line might have a longstanding love of actual libraries. Maybe you’ve always retreated to the library as a sanctuary, and to you, this line means that a college education will turn the whole world into your sanctuary and make you feel brave. On the other hand, maybe you see it as an invitation to explore: to study in other countries and learn from people in all fields. Either way, you can make your case with evidence from the text and your own life. The point is, you don’t have to give a full-scale close reading; tell a story about yourself instead.

Optional: Writing About Navigating Differences

Bowdoin believes that only through building a more diverse and inclusive campus community will the college best prepare graduates to be contributing and useful citizens of the world. every graduate of this institution should be confident in their preparation to be able to navigate through differences and in all sorts of situations. a bowdoin education does not guarantee these skills, but it does impart a set of tools necessary to bravely enter unfamiliar conditions with the confidence to deal effectively with ambiguity., if you wish, you may share anything about the unique experiences and perspectives that you would bring with you to the bowdoin campus and community or an experience you have had that required you to navigate across or through difference.  (250 words).

Admissions wants to know what has made you into the person you are today and how those experiences will affect the way you engage with and contribute to the Bowdoin community. Start by thinking about the kinds of experiences you’ve had in the communities you’ve been a part of thus far. Then, once you’ve identified the life experience(s) that has had a meaningful impact on you, think ahead to how that will affect your time at Bowdoin. 

If you opt to write about an experience where you had to navigate through a difference, be sure to summarize the experience as succinctly as possible; that way, you can focus on reflection and what you learned from it. Admissions wants to invite students to campus who are excited about the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life and won’t shy away from newness and difference.

Whichever route you go, make sure your response to this prompt shows that you have put some serious thought into the experiences that have shaped you and how you will apply those lessons and experiences to your time at Bowdoin next fall.

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Should everyone answer this "optional" essay?

Is this a truly optional essay or a regular “optional” essay. D torn between wanting to do everything ,even if optional, she could certainly right something about difference, but doesn’t want to portray herself as having non existent hardship. Help!

Bowdoin believes that only through building a more diverse and inclusive campus community will the College best prepare graduates to be contributing and useful citizens of the world. Every graduate of this institution should be confident in their preparation to be able to navigate through differences and in all sorts of situations. A Bowdoin education does not guarantee these skills, but it does impart a set of tools necessary to bravely enter unfamiliar conditions with the confidence to deal effectively with ambiguity.*

If you wish, you may share anything about your personal background not otherwise captured in your application or your experience navigating through difference. (Optional, with a max of 250 words.)

What’s her topic? To me, this seems primed for applicants who have experienced “difference” in the form of the racial, economic or cultural divides of our time.

That said, if she has a compelling experience (where the stakes were reasonably high) where negotiating strong differences led her to understand that curiosity, empathy, willingness to confront her own assumptions and then change when she has new information are part of being in a diverse community, then it’s probably worth writing.

My 2 cents.

Yes. That’s not optional. 42% of last years attendees are POC and 11% international. What has your child done to show that u can contribute to this melting pot ?

I agree with @Wjs1107 and it’s a slippery slope because you may not have anything which depending on your child’s background may be limited.

Will they not get in if they don’t do it ? No

It’s a tough topic for some to do. But I would do it - or advise my child to - at least in my opinion.

Difference can be height, color, sexuality, left handedness - you name it.

Great question. Yes, I agree that she should answer the question. The more information they have, the better picture they have of her, at least on paper.

" share anything about your personal background not otherwise captured in your application or your experience navigating through difference. "

• any experience/challenges through school, family, friends, etc., that she could give her perspective about others and/or herself could go here. It does not have to be necessarily about hardship. Good luck to her!

Does she have anything to write about that answers the prompt “navigating thru difference”, that isn’t covered elsewhere in the app? I would not create hardship where there isn’t any, or use ‘hardship’ from pre-HS years, or duplicate other things she’s already written about.

I do think this essay is truly optional, whereas I would not treat any of the other Bowdoin essay prompts as optional, and would encourage her to do the video response if that is at all appealing to her.

Make sure she watches this short ‘applying to Bowdoin’ video on this page: Apply | Bowdoin College

and this youtube video: Optional Application Materials Information Session 10.3.22 - YouTube

I’m of the opinion that this essay isn’t truly optional for most people who will apply to Bowdoin. It is a variation of the diversity prompt. It’s actually pretty nuanced though, clever and thought provoking. A student shouldn’t answer this without considering the context provided by the wording before the prompt.

This is a chance for a student to disclose something about how they approach diversity, differences, etc… The student shouldn’t just add, for example, how much joy they got by teaching themselves to juggle. But maybe they could add that they taught juggling to a bunch of local kids whose families are Somalian immigrants, and how through those kids they got to know something about the community.

This link gives info on how to approach a diversity essay, and other essays as well. Supplemental essay tips (plus the COVID question on the CA)

Hardship does not have to be an element of the answer, IMO. Here is a skeleton of the prompt with just what I think are the most relevant words for someone who hasn’t experienced meaningful hardship:

Bowdoin…building a more inclusive campus community…be able to navigate through differences…in all sorts of situations…the confidence to deal effectively with ambiguity…you may share anything about your personal background not otherwise captured in your application OR your experience navigating through difference.

Everyone has experience navigating through SOME kind of difference even if they’ve somehow always been around people of the “same background” as applies to race, gender, sexuality, political/religious beliefs, socioeconomic status, etc. if a kid doesn’t want to talk about something on that typical “diversity”list, the prompt allows for any kind of “difference”. I think this is similar to the Princeton prompt about difficult conversations. Good luck. I only chimed in here because my kid had similar qualms about not wanting to pretend to be a victim, and also not wanting to pretend to be some kind of exaggerated advocate/hero.

I think she has to be very careful about this one. If one is a member of the majority race/religion, writing about one’s experience navigating a difference that others would see as trivial could easily come off badly. And unless she did something like found and build up her school’s Best Buddies club, stories of helping to include someone who is different could come off as patronizing.

what what do you think about writing about being jewish and leading jewish cultural club in school where not many jewish students?

@Cloudybay23 I think that is a good topic. It provides cultural background that is probably not in the rest of the application (provide details on that if there is room) as well as an account of navigating difference.

That is a difference for sure…but also if they’re like every other kid, the jewish jokes, slams, and being left out of things that come with not being the dominant religion. Most Jewish kids, even if Jewish areas as I was growing up, face anti semitic behavior - even if others don’t realize.

Bowdoin shows (per Hillel if accurate which it isn’t always) a 9% Jewish population.

Coming from a school where they’re the only Jewish student or one of few - it’s a difference - and everyone experiences things differently.

I do agree with @parentologist that - “difference that others would see as trivial could easily come off badly.”

But it’s based on your perspective - and if it’s honest and authentic - I see no reason why - but it becomes a question of how did you handle this difference…i.e. navigate.

So to me that works…

It certainly fits the bill, but again, you never know how it will come off with the admissions committee. I know people who grew up in areas with few Jews, who experienced at the very least social isolation and rejection, and at best outright antisemitism, and were scarred by it. I know a Jewish family from the bible belt who had to fight against their children being repeatedly and continually harassed in school by “Christian” fundamentalists’ proselytizing. I know others who were bullied in antisemitic manners, even in areas where there were some other Jewish students. And we all know about antisemitic attacks on Jews, synagogues, and other places where Jews congregate. And yet, you can never be sure how an admissions committee would react. After all, when it comes to college admissions, Jews are not considered a discriminated-against minority.

Personally, if described as a support group for the small population of Jews in the school, and if inter-religious or inter-racial outreach or any type of inter-minority programming was part of the club’s agenda, then I think it could come off very well.

she would NOT write as a support group for an oppressed community but rather as leading a group that help to education school community through education about traditions and discussions about current issues etc. would that work?

IMHO (as a Jew), yes.

Of course, that’s my perspective - I’m not an AO.

I think it’s ok to note antisemitism, separation, and the like as well - my daughter did and got into Washington & Lee…so not Bowdoin but not far off.

I think if you take a struggle and turn it into a positive as you are doing, it’s legit.

My white, straight DS is also struggling a bit with this prompt. He started writing a short essay about his experiences being VERY colorblind (as an athlete he can’t see the lines on the field sometimes). The idea is that he literally sees the world differently. He wants to tie it into his appreciation for his highly religiously and racially/ethnically diverse school, and the idea that everyone has different experiences. It’s been a tricky essay for him to write successfully.

He hasn’t submitted it and we’re wondering if he’s better off not doing it.

I don’t know that they are looking for you to come up with a difference or hardship, per se. In many of these real life situations, it’s these false equivalencies that derail the conversation. But they ARE looking for evidence that you are sensitive to the fact that not everyone is like you and are eager to engage and learn.

Fwiw, I think that a student who is essentially "of privilege " trying to equate something about themselves with hardship, unless they can do so very humbly, shows a certain tone-deafness. But if they can articulate their desire to expand their horizons, perhaps explain a less than spectacular previous attempt, or even struggles with how to do this, they come across as open. Bowdoin needs those students in the mix too!

But that’s just me. And I’m not a reader for Bowdoin!

Yes, sounds good.

They are not going to ding his app for telling them about this very personal experience. It’s a difference. It adds something to his app. It probably isn’t going to tip anything one way or another, but if he is a decent writer, it won’t hurt.

From the Bowdoin prompt.

They aren’t mandating that someone must submit something about a very challenging or life shattering circumstance. Being frank, most applicants won’t have much to add if that is what the college is expecting. That’s why I say this is a subtle prompt.

He should submit.

I don’t think this essay is truly optional. My son is a first year this year. He did all of the “optional” items last year - including the video interview prompt. When he arrived on campus for the admitted students day in April, the AO who watched his video recognized his face, and ran over to tell him how his answer to the video prompt really moved her. Don’t ask me what the question was or what he said - he never told me. My point is - you never know what will catch someone’s attention. Use all of the opportunities they give you to let your personality shine.

As for this question, I think folks may be overthinking it. Bowdoin has admitted very diverse classes in recent years and will continue to do so. They want to ensure that the students they offer admission to will be comfortable in and embrace an environment where not everyone looks the same, sounds the same, dresses the same, or has the same cultural, socio-economic, religious, racial, gender, or geographic background. So, encourage your student to embrace the question and not show any discomfort with it. They should answer honestly - there is no “right” answer and an insincere but carefully constructed answer will likely come off as such. The student doesn’t have to have experienced “hardship” to be able to say they are comfortable with and see the value of difference.

I would think yes. Is there any angle that shows her as reaching out to understand other people’s differences, in addition to educating others about her own group?

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Lunch with Six Supporters Serves Gratitude and Inspiration

Bowdoin’s Lunch with Six Supporters was held Thursday, May 9, 2024, bringing together more than 220 students and the donors—alumni, families, and friends of the College—who have provided the financial support that makes a Bowdoin education possible for them.

Those who have supported financial aid at Bowdoin were invited to Barry Mills Hall to celebrate the impact they have had and to connect with current students who benefit from such generosity. “The principles of access, and of support for each other, are woven into the fabric of the College,” said President Safa Zaki in her welcoming remarks. “They are a huge part of what is so special about this place, and they are the commitments that we have come together to celebrate today.”

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