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A Guide to the UChicago Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

August 8, 2023

As you prepare to apply to the University of Chicago, we all know that admission is far from guaranteed, with an acceptance rate of approximately 5%. However, the challenge doesn't stop there. The essays required for UChicago are anything but ordinary. While i t's clear that UChicago's unique essay prompts deviate from the norm, their underlying goal remains the same as any other university: to gain insight into your perspective, understand your goals, and determine if your values align with what UChicago seeks in its students. To guide you through each of the prompts, I have outlined the questions, how to go about tackling them, and more tips to help you write the UChicago supplemental essays 2023-2024 .

The UChicago Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

UChicago prides itself on its thought-provoking supplemental essay prompts. Use these as an opportunity to introduce yourself, what you’re passionate about, and your ambitions and goals. Although there is no set word limit for any of the prompts, InGenius Prep counselor Natalia Ostrowski, who worked as the Assistant Director of Admissions at UChicago, recommends that you limit the first essay (“Why UChicago”) to a page (double-spaced in 12-point font). The second essay—the more unusual one of the two—should be about two pages, double spaced, and in 12-point font. 

Natalia also adds, “Remember, this is not the time to write another personal statement or about your extracurricular activity, research, or summer experience. Regardless of the question you choose to address, this is a chance for you to show the reader how you think. They want to see how your brain works, how you explore and connect ideas and concepts.” 

Question 1 (Required)

How does the university of chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to uchicago..

Although there is no strict word limit on this “why UChicago” essay, don’t go overboard with what you like about the university. Admissions officers already know it’s a great school. When reading your response to this question, admissions officers are looking for whether you’ve done your homework on UChicago to determine how much you’d fit into the college. Below are a few questions that Natalia suggests you ask yourself to brainstorm for this essay:

• Why is the Core important to you? (And don’t just copy/paste what you wrote for Columbia and vice versa—they’ll know) 
• What specific majors are you interested in and why? 
• Has it always been your dream to work with [ insert professor here ] or study abroad in [ insert location here ]? Why? 
• Which activities are you excited to contribute to? Why do you want to be a Maroon (yes, UChicago has sports!)?

Emphasize the community aspect —how do you hope to find your people on campus? Is it the opportunity to participate in student organizations such as Humor Magazine or the intramural wiffleball team that call out to you? Or are you keen to explore Chicago’s Revival Community Improv Theater within walking distance of the college? You might want to continue your community involvement work from high school by participating in the Neighborhood Schools Program, The Civic Knowledge Project, or one of the college’s several organizations that help give back to the greater Chicago community. 

Since you have space, you can provide context on who you are, your passions, and the kind of values you hope to bring to UChicago. Whatever you choose to write about, make sure you prioritize what you’re looking for from your college experience and how UChicago is the ideal place to explore these interests or goals. Show admissions officers that you have done your research and can convincingly argue for your place at the school, clearly outlining the parts of campus you wish to commit to.

Question 2: Extended Essay (Required; Choose One)

Now we get to the more peculiar essays. But where do you even start? Natalia affirms that “Admissions officers want to see how your brain works. It doesn’t matter what you write about or which question you answer—your ideas and how you write about those ideas is what matters.” She also adds that from your essay, “Admissions officers will be able to have a glimpse of who you might be in the classroom, or when you’re deep in discussion in the dining halls or dorms, or walking through the snowy Harper Quad on your way to get some hot chocolate at Hallowed Grounds.”

The takeaway for admissions officers reading your UChicago supplemental essays should be to understand what makes you tick and how you are going to contribute to the community. This is the goal you should keep in mind throughout your writing process.

Essay Option 1

Exponents and square roots, pencils and erasers, beta decay and electron capture. name two things that undo each other and explain why both are necessary. – inspired by emmett cho, class of 2027.

There are two key words in this prompt: undo and necessary. When we undo something, we reverse or negate its effects, essentially returning it to its original state or erasing its impact. On the other hand, the term necessary refers to something that is essential, required, or crucial for a particular purpose or outcome.

In the context of this prompt, it is crucial to recognize that in each pairing of things that undo each other, something must first be created or established before it can be undone. This raises two essential questions that need to be addressed: 1. Why is it necessary for the first thing to exist at all? In other words, what purpose or function does the first thing serve that makes it indispensable? For example, consider the use of pencils. Pencils are essential tools for writing, drawing, and expressing ideas. The existence of pencils enables us to visually communicate, create art, or simply jot down our thoughts. Without pencils, the act of writing or drawing would be significantly hindered, limiting our ability to convey information and express ourselves effectively.

2. Why is it necessary to have the ability to undo this creation with the second thing? Once the first thing is created, there is a need for its potential reversal or correction. This is where the second thing comes into play. Taking the example of pencils and erasers, erasers are essential tools that allow us to correct mistakes or make adjustments to our writing or artwork. Mistakes are an inherent part of the creative process, and having the ability to undo or erase them gives us the freedom to refine our work, improve accuracy, and strive for perfection. Without erasers, the permanence of mistakes would hinder our progress and limit our creative freedom.

When selecting two "things" to discuss in response to this prompt, it is important to choose items that offer ample room for exploration and analysis. The chosen "things" should be able to be examined from multiple perspectives and angles, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of their significance and the necessity for their existence and subsequent undoing. 

Essay Option 2

“where have all the flowers gone” – pete seeger. pick a question from a song title or lyric and give it your best answer. – inspired by ryan murphy, ab’21.

Aside from potentially sharing your taste in music, this prompt invites you to pick a question that you really want to answer! There is no right or wrong song to pick (and no wrong or right answer to the question), but you should find a song that allows you to play with different ideas -- “play” being the key word here!

When selecting a question from a song title or lyric, consider the themes and messages conveyed in the song. Is there a question that stands out to you, one that raises intriguing possibilities or challenges conventional wisdom? Perhaps it's a question about identity, societal norms, or the human condition. Whatever question you choose, make sure it ignites your passion and allows you to think outside the box.

Then, approach the question from various angles, drawing on different disciplines to provide a well-rounded analysis. Consider the historical context, philosophical implications, psychological interpretations, or even scientific theories that relate to the question. By incorporating different perspectives, you can showcase your interdisciplinary thinking skills and demonstrate your ability to connect ideas from various fields.

Essay Option 3

“vlog,” “labradoodle,” and “fauxmage.” language is filled with portmanteaus. create a new portmanteau and explain why those two things are a “patch” (perfect match). – inspired by garrett chalfin, class of 2027.

This prompt is an opportunity for you to showcase your ability to think outside the box and make unique connections between two seemingly unrelated concepts. However, the true essence of this prompt lies in the explanation of why these two things are the "patch." This is where you can truly demonstrate your thoughtfulness and analytical skills.

Start by carefully considering the characteristics and qualities of the two things you have chosen. Think about how they complement each other or how they can be combined to create something new and meaningful. This is your chance to show admissions officers that you have a deep understanding of the concepts you have chosen and can articulate your thoughts in a clear and concise manner. Use imaginative language and creative metaphors to bring your ideas to life. Consider incorporating anecdotes, personal experiences, or examples from literature, history, or popular culture to make your essay more relatable and memorable.

To take your essay to the next level, consider including your thoughts on language and communication. Connect your portmanteau back to the broader themes of language and how it shapes our understanding of the world. Discuss the power of language to bridge gaps, convey emotions, or challenge conventional thinking. By demonstrating your awareness of the significance of language, you show UChicago that you are not only a creative thinker but also someone who appreciates the complexities of communication.

Essay Option 4

A jellyfish is not a fish. cat burglars don’t burgle cats. rhode island is not an island. write an essay about some other misnomer, and either come up with and defend a new name for it or explain why its inaccurate name should be kept. – inspired by sonia chang, class of 2025, and mirabella blair, class of 2027.

Choose your own adventure here, but be ready to defend it! This defense should be multifaceted, considering historical, philosophical, scientific, and other perspectives. For example, if you choose to write about the misnomer "peanut butter," you could argue that despite its misleading name, it has become an iconic and beloved food product that holds a special place in culinary history. You could delve into the origins of peanut butter, discussing how it has evolved over time and become a staple in many households. By considering various lenses, you can construct a persuasive argument for why this misnomer should be kept. On the other hand, if you choose to create your own misnomer, it's essential to explain your creation thoroughly. This means providing a clear definition and rationale for why this new term is more accurate or fitting than the existing one. Let's say you come up with the term "moonflower" to describe a nocturnal plant that blooms under the moonlight. In your essay, you would need to explain why "moonflower" is a more appropriate name than the current term used for such plants. You might discuss the visual imagery and the poetic connection between the plant and the moon, emphasizing how this new term captures the essence of the plant's behavior and adds a touch of mystique.

Whether you choose to defend an existing misnomer or create your own, it's crucial to present a well-reasoned argument. Consider the implications and consequences of your choice, and anticipate potential counterarguments. This prompt offers an opportunity to showcase your critical thinking skills and your ability to construct persuasive arguments.

Essay Option 5

Despite their origins in the gupta empire of india or ancient egypt, games like chess or bowling remain widely enjoyed today. what modern game do you believe will withstand the test of time, and why – inspired by adam heiba, class of 2027.

This is a great question to explore your sociological and anthropological interests! When considering the game that you believe will withstand the test of time, consider its significance to a particular group and its individuals. By analyzing the game's importance from a sociological perspective, you can uncover the underlying reasons why it holds such value and why it is likely to endure. Take, for example, the game of soccer. Soccer is a sport that is deeply woven into the fabric of many cultures around the world. It transcends language barriers and unites people from diverse backgrounds in a shared passion. The significance of soccer goes beyond the physical act of playing the game; it represents teamwork, perseverance, and the ability to overcome challenges. These values make soccer an important part of many communities, providing a sense of identity and belonging. Furthermore, soccer has a rich history that spans centuries. From its early origins in ancient civilizations to its modern-day global popularity, soccer has stood the test of time. It has evolved and adapted, but its core essence remains the same. The simplicity of the game, with its basic rules and minimal equipment requirements, allows it to be played anywhere, from professional stadiums to makeshift fields in remote villages. This accessibility and universality contribute to its enduring appeal.

Think about games that have proven their enduring appeal through their universal nature, rich histories, and the values they represent. What games provide a sense of belonging, intellectual stimulation, and cultural identity, making them likely candidates for continued enjoyment in the future? By addressing the concept of timelessness and exploring the sociological and anthropological aspects of the game, you can present a compelling argument for why it will endure.

Essay Option 6

There are unwritten rules that everyone follows or has heard at least once in their life. but of course, some rules should be broken or updated. what is an unwritten rule that you wish didn’t exist (our custom is to have five new prompts each year, but this year we decided to break with tradition. enjoy) – inspired by maryam abdella, class of 2026.

The specific rule you choose is not as crucial as your analysis of the rule itself. A possible start is exploring the ideas of "good," "bad," relevance, and more. Or you could c hoose a rule that resonates with you personally. Rather than opting for a generic cliché like "don't judge a book by its cover," strive for advice that is specific to your interests and goals. This unique advice will allow you to exemplify it with anecdotes from your own life, providing a deeper understanding of who you are as a student and why you would be a valuable addition to the University of Chicago.

You might also want to consider exploring the concept of "unwritten" rules in your response. Let's say you choose to tackle the unwritten rule of "always follow the traditional path to success." In your analysis, you could explore the idea that this rule may not be as relevant in today's rapidly changing world. You could discuss how traditional paths to success, such as attending a prestigious university or pursuing a conventional career, may no longer guarantee fulfillment or happiness. By providing examples from your own life, such as pursuing an unconventional passion or taking a gap year to explore different interests, you can illustrate the importance of breaking this rule and forging your own unique path.

Alternatively, you might choose to examine the unwritten rule of "never show vulnerability." In your analysis, you could delve into the idea that vulnerability is not a weakness but rather a strength that fosters connection and growth. You could share personal stories of how embracing vulnerability has allowed you to form deeper relationships, learn from your mistakes, and develop resilience. By challenging the notion that vulnerability is something to be avoided, you can demonstrate your willingness to confront uncomfortable truths and embrace personal growth.

Ultimately, the more specific and personal you are in your explanation, the better the admissions officers will understand who you are and why you would thrive as a future UChicago student.

Essay Option 7

And, as always… the classic choose your own adventure option in the spirit of adventurous inquiry, choose one of our past prompts (or create a question of your own). be original, creative, thought provoking. draw on your best qualities as a writer, thinker, visionary, social critic, sage, citizen of the world, or future citizen of the university of chicago; take a little risk, and have fun.

If you don’t like any of the other options, take a look at 30 of the previous years’ questions that UChicago has provided to inspire you! The question “What can actually be divided by zero?” might appeal to you more than any of the new prompts for UChicago supplemental essays 2023-2024 -- a nd that is perfectly okay!

Note that UChicago is giving you an incredible amount of choice here by providing access to their past prompts. If you decide to go the alternative route and come up with your own question, it HAS to be good enough. It wouldn’t be the wisest decision to go with your own silly prompt with the plethora of options in your arsenal. Take the time to consider your topic and answer – but most importantly, Natalia adds, “don’t use an essay you used for school!”

While UChicago doesn’t prefer that you answer questions 1-5 rather than 6, carefully weigh your options before you decide to pick number 6. Is there nothing you might have to say for the first five essay questions? If that is indeed the case, and you’re willing to take the risk (and UChicago appreciates risk-takers) put your unique spin on a previous—or completely original—question!

Additional Tips for Writing the UChicago Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

Now that you’ve taken a look at the prompts for the UChicago supplemental essays , here are a few tips to help your brainstorming process: 

• Standout essays for standout prompts : The prompts for the UChicago supplemental essays 2023-2024 are without a doubt, highly unique. It’s okay to feel intimidated, and you might choose a prompt that asks for a more academic-leaning response if you’re not a creative writer. While it’s fine to find an option that’s tailored towards your assets, note that other applicants will be writing all sorts of weird and highly imaginative essays. So you need to come up with something memorable and original to stand out from the competition. 
• Don’t let the prompts discourage you from applying to the school : While the prompts set by the University of Chicago are definitely unusual and undoubtedly tricky, they are not impossible to answer. The school has set a standard for similarly quirky questions and hundreds of students still get in every year. So the minute you see these on the Common App, don’t be tempted to run away and remove UChicago from your school list. It’s a great school, and if you have a strong application to compete with other top students, don’t miss out on the chance just because the supplemental essays seem a little intimidating!

The UChicago supplemental essays 2023-2024 can add depth to your application and help admissions officers understand who you are and what you’re looking for from your college experience. Whichever prompt you choose, it is crucial to present a well-reasoned argument. By exploring various lenses and providing a thorough explanation, you can impress the admissions officers with your creativity and persuasive abilities. The task at hand might seem like a tough uphill battle, but it’s definitely not impossible. Good luck!

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UChicago Released 2022-2023 Essay Prompts and We're Loving Them

Each year, applicants to The University of Chicago are asked to answer two supplemental essay questions. Sounds normal enough, right? Not quite – UChicago is famous for its unique essay prompts which are often creative and uniquely fun. 

Applicants are asked to submit two essays with their application. The first is the standard "why UChicago" question. The second question takes a more creative approach. The essay prompts change wildly each year–because they are submitted by current students!

The University of Chicago’s history of unique essay questions began in 1984 when the admissions staff added a fun prompt asking students to image themselves as astronauts on Mars. In 2000, UChicago students took over the task of writing essay questions. Each year, UChicago receives several hundred essay prompt submissions from students enrolled at the university and narrows it down to a handful for applicants to choose from.

When asked why they offer such unique essay prompts Peter Wilson, assistant vice president of enrollment and student advancement and director of undergraduate admissions, says: “We are interested in diversity in all its forms, and a wide variety of questions allows for a wide variety of ideas to be represented.”

2022-2023 University of Chicago Supplemental Essay Prompts

Question 1 (required): .

How does the university of Chicago, as you know it, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future? Please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to UChicago.

Question 2: Extended Essay (Required; Choose 1)

Essay Option 1 : Was it a cat I saw? Yo-no-na-ka, ho-ka-ho-ka na-no-yo (Japanese for “the world is a warm place”). Może jutro ta dama da tortu jeżom (Polish for “maybe tomorrow that lady will give a cake to the hedgehogs”). Share a palindrome in any language, and give it a backstory.

— Inspired by Leah Beach, Class of 2026, Lib Gray SB ’12, and Agnes Mazur AB ‘09

Essay Option 2 : What advice would a wisdom tooth have?

— Inspired by Melody Dias, Class of 2025

Essay Option 3 : You are on an expedition to found a colony on Mars, when from a nearby crater, a group of Martians suddenly emerges. They seem eager to communicate, but they're the impatient kind and demand you represent the human race in one song, image, memory, proof, or other idea. What do you share with them to show that humanity is worth their time?

— Inspired by Alexander Hastings, Class of 2023, and Olivia Okun-Dubitsky, Class of 2026

Essay Option 4 : UChicago has been affiliated with over 90 Nobel laureates. But, why should economics, physics, and peace get all the glory? You are tasked with creating a new category for the Nobel Prize. Explain what it would be, why you chose your specific category, and the criteria necessary to achieve this accomplishment.

— Inspired by Isabel Alvarez, Class of 2026

Essay Option 5 : Genghis Khan with an F1 racecar. George Washington with a SuperSoaker. Emperor Nero with a toaster. Leonardo da Vinci with a Furby. If you could give any historical figure any piece of technology, who and what would it be, and why do you think they’d work so well together?

— Inspired by Braden Hajer, Class of 2025

Essay Option 6 : And, as always… the classic choose your own adventure option! In the spirit of adventurous inquiry, choose one of our past prompts (or create a question of your own). Be original, creative, thought provoking. Draw on your best qualities as a writer, thinker, visionary, social critic, sage, citizen of the world, or future citizen of the University of Chicago; take a little risk, and have fun!

Past Supplemental Extended Essay Prompts

Lost your keys? Alohomora. Noisy roommate? Quietus. Feel the need to shatter windows for some reason? Finestra. Create your own spell, charm, jinx, or other means for magical mayhem. How is it enacted? Is there an incantation? Does it involve a potion or other magical object? If so, what's in it or what is it? What does it do? — Inspired by Emma Sorkin, Class of 2021 

UChicago professor W. J. T. Mitchell entitled his 2005 book What Do Pictures Want? Describe a picture, and explore what it wants. —Inspired by Anna Andel

Heisenberg claims that you cannot know both the position and momentum of an electron with total certainty. Choose two other concepts that cannot be known simultaneously and discuss the implications. (Do not consider yourself limited to the field of physics). — Inspired by Doran Bennett, AB’07

Alice falls down the rabbit hole. Milo drives through the tollbooth. Dorothy is swept up in the tornado. Neo takes the red pill. Don’t tell us about another world you’ve imagined, heard about, or created. Rather, tell us about its portal. Sure, some people think of the University of Chicago as a portal to their future, but please choose another portal to write about. — Inspired by Raphael Hallerman, Class of 2020

Due to a series of clerical errors, there is exactly one typo (an extra letter, a removed letter, or an altered letter) in the name of every department at the University of Chicago. Oops! Describe your new intended major. Why are you interested in it and what courses or areas of focus within it might you want to explore? Potential options include Commuter Science, Bromance Languages and Literatures, Pundamentals: Issues and Texts, Ant History... a full list of unmodified majors ready for your editor’s eye is available  here . — Inspired by Josh Kaufman, AB'18

How did you get caught? (Or not caught, as the case may be.) — Inspired by Kelly Kennedy, AB’10

Discover more of The University of Chicago’s past essay prompts on their admissions essay website .

Read more on application essays:

The Importance of Supplemental Essays in College Admissions

Supplemental Essay “Fun”

Application Essay Topics to Avoid

And don't forget to join the CC Community for more discussion on application essays, admission tips, and applying to college.

Sam is a freelance writer. She studied at the University of Massachusetts Boston where she earned a degree in English.

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Essay Prompts 2021

The University of Chicago has long been renowned for our provocative essay questions. We think of them as an opportunity for students to tell us about themselves, their tastes, and their ambitions. They can be approached with utter seriousness, complete fancy, or something in between.

UChicago Essay Examples

UChicago Essay Examples 

As one of the world’s top-ranked universities, the University of Chicago deeply values inquisitive and creative learners. For that reason, UChicago essays that worked are some of the most captivating and unique college essays out there. Hopeful applicants will benefit from reading UChicago essay examples. In fact, beyond just reading UChicago essay examples, closely analyzing UChicago essays that worked is an excellent way to prepare. 

Are you thinking of applying to UChicago but not sure what goes into writing UChicago essays that worked? You’re in the right place! In this article, we’re going to read some UChicago essay examples and see why they impressed admissions.

In this UChicago Essay Examples article we’ll look at: 

• Recent UChicago essay prompts
• Several real University of Chicago essay examples
• Why the UChicago essay matters 
• Tips for writing a UChicago essay, and more!

As one of the best universities in Illinois , the Midwest , and the world, UChicago demands top-tier essays. And with our expert analysis of UChicago essay examples, you’ll be better prepared to craft your own.. 

How many supplemental essays does UChicago have?

There are two supplemental essays required for the UChicago application. These prompts can be found on the university’s site as well as in the Coalition Application or Common Application . It’s important to note these prompts—and, accordingly, UChicago essay examples—vary from year to year. However, you’ll find similarities among UChicago essays that worked regardless of the prompt. 

The first prompt is required of all students and is essentially a “why UChicago” essay. A “why UChicago” essay that works will follow the general framework of any other “why school” essay. 

UChicago essay examples for the second required essay change the most between admissions cycles. This is because the second essay responds to one of several prompts created by UChicago students.

For both required UChicago essay examples, there is no set word limit. However, the University of Chicago admissions office suggests 650 words for the UChicago extended essay example. As for the “why UChicago” essay, the suggested word limit is lower, at 250-500 words. Regardless of your final word count, UChicago essays that worked use their words effectively, as we’ll see soon.

What are the University of Chicago supplemental essay prompts?

UChicago essays that worked will respond to the unique prompts in an innovative and inquisitive manner. That being said, UChicago essay examples vary greatly as the prompts change yearly. 

UChicago posts its current prompts as well as some of the favorite prompts of the past years. In fact, you can even find past favorite University of Chicago prompts from as far back as the nineties. As prompts change, so do UChicago essay examples; however, elements of Uchicago essays that worked are pretty constant. With that said, let’s look at the current UChicago essay prompts.

The first UChicago essay prompt is required of all students:

How does the university of chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to uchicago., the second essay—the uchicago extended essay.

The second required essay for the UChicago application is inspired by current students. In the most recent application cycle, it asks students to respond to one of the following options:

Essay Option 1:

Exponents and square roots, pencils and erasers, beta decay and electron capture. name two things that undo each other and explain why both are necessary. – inspired by emmett cho, class of 2027, essay option 2:, “where have all the flowers gone” – pete seeger. pick a question from a song title or lyric and give it your best answer. – inspired by ryan murphy, ab’21, essay option 3:, “vlog,” “labradoodle,” and “fauxmage.” language is filled with portmanteaus. create a new portmanteau and explain why those two things are a “patch” (perfect match). – inspired by garrett chalfin, class of 2027, essay option 4:, a jellyfish is not a fish. cat burglars don’t burgle cats. rhode island is not an island. write an essay about some other misnomer, and either come up with and defend a new name for it or explain why its inaccurate name should be kept. – inspired by sonia chang, class of 2025, and mirabella blair, class of 2027, essay option 5:, despite their origins in the gupta empire of india or ancient egypt, games like chess or bowling remain widely enjoyed today. what modern game do you believe will withstand the test of time, and why – inspired by adam heiba, class of 2027, essay option 6:, there are unwritten rules that everyone follows or has heard at least once in their life. but of course, some rules should be broken or updated. what is an unwritten rule that you wish didn’t exist (our custom is to have five new prompts each year, but this year we decided to break with tradition. enjoy) – inspired by maryam abdella, class of 2026, essay option 7:, and, as always… the classic choose your own adventure option in the spirit of adventurous inquiry, choose one of our past prompts (or create a question of your own). be original, creative, thought provoking. draw on your best qualities as a writer, thinker, visionary, social critic, sage, citizen of the world, or future citizen of the university of chicago; take a little risk, and have fun.

Soon, we’re going to check out some UChicago essay examples. However, you may notice that our UChicago essay examples don’t respond to the current prompts. That doesn’t mean that these UChicago essay examples aren’t helpful! Responses to these prompts will vary greatly based on each student’s story. All UChicago essays that worked are valuable tools to aid you in writing your own college essays. 

Demystifying the UChicago Extended Essay

When considering how to write a UChicago extended essay example, think about how unique all of the UChicago uncommon essay examples are. There is no one-size-fits-all way to craft impressive UChicago essay examples; rather, there are infinite ways to approach them. 

While that may feel overwhelming for some students, try to focus on the creative liberty the UChicago essay examples allow. Because the University of Chicago essay examples are so unique, students have a grand opportunity to express themselves. 

What’s the goal of UChicago essay examples? Well, the UChicago extended essay example has a slightly different goal than “why UChicago” essay examples. The prompts are admittedly “provocative.” After all, this competitive university wants the most curious, inquisitive minds in the nation. Accordingly, successful UChicago essay examples prove that admitted students aren’t afraid of thinking out of the box. 

In the end, although the prompts seem quite different from other college essays, the goal is the same. UChicago essays that worked share more about each student: their interests, background, life experiences, or tastes. The exciting part about the UChicago uncommon essay examples is the rare opportunity to embrace your quirkiness or get serious. The choice is yours! 

UChicago Extended Essay Example

The first of our UChicago uncommon essay examples touches on some themes common in more traditional diversity/background/life experiences prompts. Read the first of our UChicago essay examples closely. How does the writer share more about themselves in an eloquent manner while still responding to this unique prompt?

UChicago Extended Essay Prompt:

A neon installation by the artist jeppe hein in chicago’s charles m. harper center asks this question for us: “why are you here and not somewhere else” (there are many potential values of “here”, but we already know you’re “here” to apply to the university of chicago; pick any”here” besides that one). – inspired by erin hart, class of 2016..

In a culture where Bollywood’s ‘item girls’ receive fame and glory for their provocative dancing and scant clothing, I am often filled with shame and even disgust for my own Indian heritage. Films and television soaps reinforce gender stereotypes of dominating male characters, while their female counterparts are either passive homemakers or desirable ‘item girls.’ These movies are mainstream and celebrated in my culture, watched by children and grandparents alike.

How can I embrace and respect my culture if this inequality pervades? Because I notice these things, and define them as blatantly sexist, does that make me less Indian?

In a culture where dowries are still regularly exchanged between families, I cannot help but notice the objectification of women that is culturally acceptable and ubiquitous. I cannot understand how Indian women all over the world permit their future family to request money and goods equivalent to their supposed ‘worth.’ This is the feminist and Western approach to dowries However, if I look closer, there can be a degree of justification to this practice. The parents-in-law are given money and luxurious goods for the bride in order to protect her if her husband and breadwinner can no longer work.

While this reasoning does offer some justification for the persistent existence of dowries in the 21st century, it brings new objections to the presumption that the bride will not contribute to the family’s income. I see the world through two lenses as the clash between Eastern and Western culture pervades my every thought and action.

During rare family gatherings, the few times I get to see my extended family, the joy of the reunion is mellowed by what I see. The men and children lounge into the couches, sipping tea and crunching bhel (Indian snack), while chuckling and debating over current events. In the kitchen congregate the women, busy cooking and giggling with each other, but in a constant frenzy to prepare the next meal or brew more tea. Distracted by the simmering chai, this room lacks the same fervent discussion of prevalent global issues. The living room and kitchen stand divided between the men and women. As a female young-adult, I am confused as to where I belong- to which room do I go? While we are one family, the divide remains firm. I feel sick to my stomach, as I alone perceive the waves of sexism that ripple beneath our facade.

Adding to this confusion are my looks. I am a rich mocha, but with too much crème, and suddenly I no longer look Indian. My unique ringlets add fuel to my accusers’ claims. Too pale, and too many curls. I have been called nearly every ethnicity in the globe, from African-American to Latina to Russian. When I explain my Indian heritage, aghast, they cry, “But you can’t be Indian!” Hurt, I leave questioning my appearance and the personality I project.

On the other hand, Hindu culture reveres female empowerment through the worship of powerful female deities such as Kali and Lakshmi. This hypocrisy baffles me. Why I am here? Why am I Indian, when everyone questions my ethnicity, and I, myself, question certain practices?

I realize, I am here to question and ponder, because thinking about the life and environment in which you live is critical. Because the fact remains that I absolutely love my culture. The passionate, unrequited urges to dance at every occasion in a flurry of vibrancy cannot be found anywhere else. I love the intrinsic and irrevocable respect for the knowledge and experiences elders bring. Also, I appreciate the emphasis on family as ultimate supporters and best friends. I even love the sense of duty and service that being a daughter brings. Outwardly, perhaps, I don’t conform to the typical model of an Indian girl, reserved and soft-spoken, with thick, straight hair and rich mocha skin, but I have the heart and soul of one.

Why This UChicago Essay Worked

With endless ways to respond, this writer’s UChicago extended essay example offers the reader a unique look into her life. She contemplates the many clashes in her own culture and her way of thinking and navigating the world. However, in her final reflection on precisely why she’s “here,” she affirms the centrality of her culture to her sense of self. 

The author of the first of our UChicago essays that worked dissects aspects of her culture that disquiet her. The reader sees an inquisitive person who’s always questioned cultural norms that others within her family might not have. Of course, she doesn’t completely reject a culture because she doesn’t completely agree with it. On the contrary, she’s able to find and appreciate the parts that have shaped her into who she is. Additionally, while she may not exemplify what’s “typical” of her culture, she recognizes that it’s nevertheless intrinsic to her experience. And she loves it. 

UChicago essays that worked often show growth. In the first of our UChicago uncommon essay examples, the writer shows how she’s navigated the inner conflict she experiences around her culture. In the end, even though she doesn’t come to a conclusive answer, the writer accepts the ongoing process of questioning. Moreover, she recognizes her culture and her surroundings aren’t mutually incompatible, but that she must find her own balance. This willingness to accept ambiguity and keep questioning is certainly important at an elite institution like UChicago. 

More UChicago essay examples

Let’s continue with the UChicago uncommon essay examples. Again, as you read this UChicago extended essay example, note features common among college essays—not just UChicago essay examples. 

UChicago Essay Prompt:

Share with us a few of your favorite books, poems, authors, films, plays, pieces of music, musicians, performers, paintings, artists, blogs, magazines, or newspapers. feel free to touch on one, some, or all of the categories listed, or add a category of your own., uchicago essay example.

Downton Abbey makes me fantasize about the elaborate fashions of the 1900s, with long taffeta gowns and hats bursting with feathers and jewels, each lady is a vision of elegance. Each episode and season leaves me fascinated by the grandeur and magnificence of the house, which stands in stark contrast with the peeling grey wood of the downstairs kitchens and servant halls. The servant’s staircase is shabby and dull, and runs parallel to the vibrant tapestry-covered marble staircase for those upstairs. I am puzzled by the smooth refinement of upstairs, juxtaposed with the panting bustle of downstairs.

I constantly marvel at the writers’ ability to craft characters to whom I can relate, despite the gap of a century. The world they lived in is so vastly different from today, yet people of all ages experience comparable emotions such as jealousy, passion, and shame. I am left breathless by the fact that each character faces similar challenges of familial disappointment, honor, and struggle to find a purpose in life; just as we do today.

Technology may change, but human nature remains the same. In addition, the rich historical background of Downtown Abbey provides intricate context to the larger historical events I learn in class. I am transported from merely learning about the implications of World War 1 and the Spanish Influenza, to learning about how these impacted the daily lives of people.

Downton Abbey is more than merely a television show to me. Calling my grandmother in England to discuss in the elaborate plot twists and new character developments has brought us together for a shared passionate experience in the same living room. We avidly discuss Mary’s slew of new suitors and Daisy’s latest heartbreak via video chat. Excitedly we giggle over birth of baby George and Ms. Pattmore’s witty retorts. In a unique twist, Downton Abbey has become something that transcends the thousands of miles that separate us.

In addition, Pride and Prejudice couples my love of fairytales with my irrevocable feminism.

Forever imprinted in my mind is the first time I attempted to read Jane Austen’s masterpiece, as a plucky third grader who brought the book to reading circle. At that young age, I was merely fascinated by the drama of five girls, each with their own tantalizing personality. But now, I realize the subtle life lessons concealed within each page. This novel makes me squash my teenage urges to judge and categorize people instantly, instead realizing that there is something to be learned from all people from all walks of life- especially the people from whom I am the most different. This subtle yet sparkling wit of Mr. Bennett reminds me to laugh more at the chaos and confusion life often brings.

The dysfunctional and hilarious family dynamic provides comedic relief and reminds me of the 19th century equivalent of a reality show. I admire Jane Austen’s subtle yet thought-provoking feminism through Elizabeth, as she pokes fun at her best friend for marrying without love for money and position, something she could never do. Also, I am inspired by Elizabeth’s passionate resolve against being ‘anybody’s fool! I am drawn by my love for English literature, which provides a window to discover historical intricacies that mirror a universal human experience.

Why This UChicago Essay Stood Out

The second of our UChicago essay examples hooks the reader and shows the author’s ability to connect with others. Much more than simply saying, “I like Downton Abbey because of the costumes”, the writer describes in detail the wardrobe and architecture. UChicago essays that worked provide ample details to help the main idea—and the writer—come to life for the reader.

Then the writer goes on to show how humans share the same feelings and experiences, which transcend time periods. This shows the reader how the writer is capable of empathizing and relating to people even through their differences. As the author points out, human nature is the same no matter the time period. Their personal understanding of this will ideally motivate humanistic, world-changing work at UChicago and beyond.

Focusing on the personal impact

Although this writer includes their grandmother in the essay, notice that the focus comes back to a lesson. Writing about experiences with friends or family in college essays is by no means off limits. However, those who do so should use a strategy like this essay. In other words, the essay should ultimately discuss personal impacts or lessons on character. 

Finally, the writer touches on the book Pride and Prejudice and the feminism portrayed within the book. Through this point, we learn more of the author’s values as well as traits in characters—in people—that they admire. She again ties the book to the underlying theme of her essay which is the universal human experience. 

This multifaceted essay engages the reader, answers the prompt, and allows some insight into the author’s values and way of thinking. 

How do you write a UChicago essay?

Logically, University of Chicago essay examples vary: a UChicago extended essay example differs in many ways from UChicago essay examples. However, while UChicago essays that worked may look very different, they serve the same greater purpose. Above all, writers must show admissions who they are and why they belong at UChicago. 

“Why UChicago” essay examples will follow the format of a “why school” essay. Students should get specific as they reference opportunities, programs, faculty, or extracurriculars found only at UChicago. Additionally, UChicago essay examples should demonstrate just why the writer belongs on campus. How do your values align with those of the university? What will you bring to the school’s community? UChicago essays that worked should also show that UChicago is a good fit for the student—it goes both ways. 

More ‘Why School’ essay examples

Before writing, check out some successful “why school” essay examples from a variety of different schools. Of course, pay special attention to the “why UChicago” essay examples. Additionally, don’t miss essay tips from the University of Chicago admissions team. Given the competitiveness of UChicago admittance, UChicago essays that worked must all stand out.

Why This College Essay Sample

As for the UChicago uncommon essay examples, they can be approached in a myriad of ways. Firstly, be sure to choose the topic that excites you the most. Which immediately catches your eye? If you can’t decide, brainstorm for each first to see what you can write. Then, choose the topic with the most potential for a meaningful essay you want to write. Successful UChicago uncommon essay examples are founded on genuine excitement about the essay, so choose a topic that excites you. 

You may want to free write to get your ideas flowing. From there you can choose the “meat” of your essay out of a slew of words. University of Chicago essay examples must be unique to get you admitted. UChicago essay examples that worked ranged from serious to humorous. Don’t be afraid to have fun and get creative. The main goal is to share with admissions more about yourself. And, of course, show off your writing chops!

Determining a College Essay Topic: Reflection Exercises to Try

Does UChicago care about supplemental essays?

In short, yes, absolutely! Understanding why different University of Chicago essay examples had success will do wonders for students writing their essays. The essays are a pivotal part of the UChicago application. And as one of the best universities in the nation, UChicago wants students with well-crafted essays

Of course, there are many factors that contribute to college acceptance, such as GPA and extracurriculars. Students will want to polish each part of the application, which starts early with your high school curriculum choices.

Making sure that you meet all of the University of Chicago requirements and the UChicago application deadline is also imperative. After all, there’s no use in writing perfect UChicago essay examples if your application is incomplete or late. Start planning your application early so you have documents in hand well before the deadline. With this in mind, most colleges use a holistic evaluation process when considering candidates. With such unique essay prompts, it’s clear that University of Chicago admissions wants students who rise to the occasion. That means students who passionately, creatively, and inquisitively respond to the prompts. 

You’ll notice that all the UChicago essay examples provide some valuable insight into the writer’s life and personality. These wouldn’t have been apparent from other parts of the application. That is to say, your essays should help to fill in your picture, so to speak. Admissions officers read essays to learn more about students to ensure that their values and goals align with the university. 

Need more help with your UChicago essays?

While we’ve checked out a couple of UChicago essays that worked, there are plenty more resources on the topic! In fact, you can check out more University of Chicago essay examples and see just why they worked, too. Reading UChicago uncommon essay examples will help inspire you to write your best UChicago extended essay example. 

The UChicago acceptance rate is one of the most selective in the nation at 5.4% . In light of that, applicants should do everything possible to make their application stand out. Read our how to get into UChicago guide for more tips on being a competitive candidate. 

While our “how to get into” guides cover each step of the application process, we have additional resources beyond UChicago essay examples. Watch our webinar for more valuable insight on how to write and edit your own UChicago essays. You can also take a look at UChicago admissions’ announcement of the most recent prompts in the video below.

Chicago Essay Examples – 5 Takeaways

What have we learned from these UChicago uncommon essay examples? Here are 5 key things to keep in mind to make sure that your University of Chicago essay examples are successful. 

5 Tips for Writing Chicago Essay Examples

1. start early.

This goes for all aspects of the college journey, from the demographic info to the essays. The UChicago application deadline can creep up with everything else busy high schoolers have going on. Don’t let it take you by surprise! Specifically, successful University of Chicago essay examples have almost certainly undergone more than one revision. Start your essays well before the UChicago application deadline to make plenty of time to brainstorm, outline, draft, and edit. Before applying, check out all of the application deadline options to see what works best for you!

2. Choose your topic carefully

In order to write your best essay, you’ll want to choose the topic that most excites you. Which prompt caught your immediate attention? And, can you respond fully to the prompt in a way that shows more of your personality and values to the University of Chicago admissions team? The strongest University of Chicago essay examples brimming with passionate language and excitement.

3. Get creative

You’ll notice that UChicago uncommon essay examples usually hook the reader. This is where the favorite writing phrase comes in handy: show, don’t tell. When writing your essays, don’t merely list your points. Captivate the reader with descriptive language and attention-grabbing narrative strategies. The successful University of Chicago examples almost read like a story that you just don’t want to put down. 

4. Meet the requirements

While there is no official word limit for the UChicago uncommon essay examples, there are “recommendations”. Successful University of Chicago essay examples are often 250–500 words for the first prompt and about 650 for the second. Obviously, be sure to answer both required essays!

5. Show who you are

This is the most important part of all college essays. Of course, comprehensively answering the prompt is also vital, but applicants must also tell admissions about themselves. Don’t just repeat other parts of your application; use the essays to share something about yourself that admissions wouldn’t see otherwise. Most importantly, be yourself! One of the most common mistakes applicants make is trying to write something that University of Chicago admissions officers want to read. Answer the prompts in an authentic and unique way. 

Overall, remember that UChicago uncommon essay examples are an opportunity to stand out among a pool of qualified candidates. At one of the most selective universities in the nation, UChicago uncommon essay examples catch the eye of the admissions team. So, be sure to read several UChicago uncommon essay examples possible before starting your own. They’ll surely spark inspiration as well as show what’s worked in the past. 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed after dissecting the UChicago uncommon essay examples, don’t worry! CollegeAdvisor’s Admissions Experts help students in every step of the college application journey, specifically with the University of Chicago requirements. They offer personalized support with everything from creating a college list to writing essays to applying for financial aid. 

Don’t focus on rankings and acceptance rates when planning your essays—just creatively show who you are through your prompt responses. Have fun when writing each UChicago essay! After all, people call them “uncommon essays” for a reason. UChicago wants you to think outside of the box when responding to their one-of-a-kind UChicago essay prompts. 

Sarah Kaminski wrote this article. 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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How To Answer U Chicago's Supplemental Essay Prompts 2022/23

The University of Chicago is a private research university in Chicago, Illinois. It has an acceptance rate of around 7%, making it one of the most prestigious and selective schools in the United States. One way in which applicants get to showcase their personality and separate themselves from the other applicants which whom they are competing against is through the U Chicago Supplementary Essays. The essay prompts serve to offer a more holistic view of each applicant to admission officers so as to allow them to make a more informed decision on whether to admit an applicant to the school. This blog serves as a guide as to how one may approach the U Chicago Supplementary Essays.

What are the University of Chicago supplemental essay prompts for 2022/23?

The University of Chicago is known for its unique and unusual supplemental essay prompts . This year wasn’t any different.

Prompt 1  (Required)

How does the University of Chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future? Please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to UChicago.

Prompt 2: Extended Essay  (Required; Choose one)

Was it a cat I saw? Yo-no-na-ka, ho-ka-ho-ka na-no-yo (Japanese for “the world is a warm place”). Może jutro ta dama da tortu jeżom (Polish for “maybe tomorrow that lady will give a cake to the hedgehogs”). Share a palindrome in any language, and give it a backstory. - Inspired by Leah Beach, Class of 2026, Lib Gray SB ’12, and Agnes Mazur AB ‘09

What advice would a wisdom tooth have? –Inspired by Melody Dias, Class of 2025

You are on an expedition to found a colony on Mars, when from a nearby crater, a group of Martians suddenly emerges. They seem eager to communicate, but they're the impatient kind and demand you represent the human race in one song, image, memory, proof, or other idea. What do you share with them to show that humanity is worth their time? —Inspired by Alexander Hastings, Class of 2023, and Olivia Okun-Dubitsky, Class of 2026

UChicago has been affiliated with over 90 Nobel laureates. But, why should economics, physics, and peace get all the glory? You are tasked with creating a new category for the Nobel Prize. Explain what it would be, why you chose your specific category, and the criteria necessary to achieve this accomplishment. —Inspired by Isabel Alvarez, Class of 2026

Genghis Khan with an F1 racecar. George Washington with a SuperSoaker. Emperor Nero with a toaster. Leonardo da Vinci with a Furby. If you could give any historical figure any piece of technology, who and what would it be, and why do you think they’d work so well together? -Inspired by Braden Hajer, Class of 2025

And, as always… the classic choose your own adventure option! In the spirit of adventurous inquiry, choose one of our past prompts (or create a question of your own). Be original, creative, thought provoking. Draw on your best qualities as a writer, thinker, visionary, social critic, sage, citizen of the world, or future citizen of the University of Chicago; take a little risk, and have fun!

Check out more UChicago questions from previous years

How this Economics Student got into UChicago

How to answer Prompt 1

How does the university of chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future please address with some specificity your wishes and how they relate to uchicago..

This essay prompt essentially teases students' motivations and reasons for applying to UChicago. However, instead of asking, “Why UChicago?” the admission officers have decided to ask in a more specific manner. Hence, the last you want to do is to offer generic reasons that can be “copied-paste” to any “Why (this school)” question. Instead, it would help if you had researched what academic programs and extra-curriculextracurricularpportunitiesUChicago offers.

You should be able to explain why you have chosen UChicago, backed with adequate research. In doing so, you should also be able to ascertain what kind of learning environment/ community you wish to pursue and contribute to and how UChicago can satisfy your wishes. Through your answer, it is also essential to demonstrate your enthusiasm and show how you would contribute to UChicago.

Helpful Tips for Prompt 1

1. be specific.

For example, let’s say you’re interested in UChicago’s premier economics program. You’ve taken the AP courses , completed econ-related extracurriculars , and you want that interest to guide your college experience. Research how the economics program works at UChicago, any professors whose research you might be interested in, and any student organizations that work in econ. Then, imagine how your experience will grow when you have access to those resources.

2. It’s not just about school

UChicago will receive your grades separately, so set aside your GPA . You’re not just a student in college. You’re a roommate, study partner, and gym buddy. UChicago has a reputation for attracting hard workers and prides itself on diverse student cultures. Adding that layer of depth when you’ve only got 250 words is challenging. If you’re unsure whether to describe another detail about your studies or about an extraordinary experience you had, go with the latter.

3. Stay humble

It’s not just how you’ll take advantage of UChicago’s opportunities but how your contributions will benefit others. Listing your accomplishments might sound like an excellent way to show your worth, but remember you’re joining thousands of other hopefuls from many different walks of life. If you were lucky enough to have beautiful experiences, focus on how they changed your sense of self rather than just listing positive outcomes.

4. Stay positive

Never criticize other schools. If you want to talk about UChicago’s first-year “Core Experience,” with its focus on interdisciplinary texts, don’t write negatively about how other universities lack those courses! You can build up UChicago’s unique offerings without speaking negatively about other institutions.

• Read more on how to answer the “Why This College” prompt

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How to answer Prompt 2

The University of Chicago is renowned for its provocative essay questions . These questions allow students to tell the school more about themselves, their tastes, and their ambitions. Students approach these questions with absolute seriousness, complete fancy, or something in between.

Each year UChicago asks newly admitted and current college students for essay topics. They receive several hundred responses, many of which are eloquent, intriguing, or downright wacky. The questions below were inspired by submissions from UChicago students and alumni.

Choose one of the following prompts and respond in a maximum of two pages.

Essay Option 1

A palindrome is **“**a word, phrase, or sequence that reads the same backward as forwards.” Here is a list of palindromes you can refer to spark some ideas.

The purpose of this prompt is for the admission officers to see how imaginative you can be . The palindrome you eventually choose and give a backstory to will illustrate your personality, cultural experiences, and creativity in a way that your academic grades or your CV cannot do.

Ideally, you should make your story as original and thought-provoking as possible and link the story to yourself or your thoughts or opinions. For example, if you choose the palindrome “Eva, can I stab bats in a cave?” , you may want to think of a story of how humans and animals interact.

It is possible to link this to the current COVID-19 pandemic, where there are theories that wildlife trade and animals such as bats are the sources of the coronavirus. You can then introduce your thoughts/ opinions on the matter. Of course, this is just one way to do this – there is no wrong way per se as long as your answer is engaging, compelling, and can demonstrate certain traits about you (e.g., being intellectually curious). If you wish to make this more personal, you can introduce other aspects of yourself through the story, such as your interests, hobbies, or projects.

Essay Option 2

Again, the admission officers are trying to test if you can think outside the box and justify your answer to the best of your ability. As long as you can explain your answer, you’re on the right track, given that the admission officers are not looking for a particular answer but a logical explanation that can demonstrate your values and personality to them.

One way to approach this question is to interpret it literally , in that your wisdom tooth was probably plucked out before college, and the experience was perhaps painful. Hence, what advice would your then wisdom tooth have given to your past self when undergoing painful experiences?

Another way to approach this question is to interpret it figuratively , in that a wisdom tooth represents obsolete events, given that the wisdom tooth eventually becomes obsolete after being plucked out. Hence, what advice can a wisdom tooth give to other things/people who seemingly have become obsolete?

In your essay, it is essential to set out how you interpret this question and then go ahead and give your answer and explain it in a way that shows admission officers that you are capable of reasoning and analytical thinking.

Essay Option 3

You are on an expedition to find a Mars colony when a group of Martians suddenly emerges from a nearby crater. They seem eager to communicate, but they're impatient and demand you represent the human race in one song, image, memory, proof, or another idea. What do you share with them to show that humanity is worth their time? —Inspired by Alexander Hastings, Class of 2023, and Olivia Okun-Dubitsky, Class of 2026

Essentially, this prompt wants to know your view on humanity . You may want to start by thinking about some art, history, or literature that you find fascinating and that can represent humanity. In choosing what you think is the most exciting thing to represent humanity, consider the values, message, and revelations that that thing conveys. In your answer, you should be able to articulate

• The thing that you have chosen
• Why have you chosen it?
• What it represents on the value of humanity
• What does it matter

Of course, there are two ways to approach this – one is by representing humanity in a positive manner and the other in a negative manner.

In the first way, you would want to persuade the Martians that humanity is worth their time by “marketing” humanity to them and showing how great it is.

Latterly, you can persuade the Martians that humanity is worth their time by showing some “crisis” of sorts and that urgent action is needed. Through your answer, the admission officers hope to gain insight into your perspective on humanity while also understanding who you are.

Essay Option 4

UChicago has been affiliated with over 90 Nobel laureates. But why should economics, physics, and peace get all the glory? You are tasked with creating a new category for the Nobel Prize. Explain what it would be, why you chose your specific type, and the criteria necessary to achieve this accomplishment. —Inspired by Isabel Alvarez, Class of 2026

This prompt is very broad and allows students to challenge the standard markers of glory in society . Currently, society seems to value economics, physics, and peace for the Nobel Prize. However, in answering this question, you may want to challenge this societal assumption and how society values one field/industry/issue over others.

You can talk about why other things should be recognized and included as a category for the Nobel Prize. In doing so, you can seize this opportunity to write about your passions, interests, and values.

For example, if you are very interested in baking, you can discuss creating a Nobel Prize category for baking. Let your experiences and values shape how you describe the category and its criteria. Of course, depending on how you frame this question, you can choose to be very serious or light-hearted in your response.

Essay Option 5

This prompt is more academic than the rest because it requires you to show your knowledge of history, politics, culture, and economics .

In brainstorming the historical figure, you should consider which historical figure you admire, how they have impacted the people and community they were in, and what about them resonates with you.

As for the piece of technology you wish to pair with them, think about what technology would be helpful to them, or what technology would have prompted their imagination and possibly changed their decisions, or what they would have done with this technology. This could have specific implications for the people and community they lived in. Be as creative and descriptive in your response!

Essay Option 6

And, as always… the classic choose your adventure option! In the spirit of adventurous inquiry, select one of our past prompts (or create a question of your own). Be original, creative, and thought-provoking. Draw on your best qualities as a writer, thinker, visionary, social critic, sage, a citizen of the world, or future citizen of the University of Chicago; take a little risk, and have fun!

If you do not like any of the other prompts, you may engage with this prompt, which essentially gives you free reign to design any prompt or choose any of the past UChicago prompts .

Regardless of your choice, think about what you want to showcase to the admission officer. Essentially, you want to show your thoughts, values, experiences, passions, interests, etc. Hence, when choosing a prompt, you want to select something that allows you to showcase these things about yourself to a certain degree.

If you choose to craft your own prompt, be sure to use the way UChicago craft their other application prompts as a guide – this would mean that you may have to think a little out of the box, which is something that UChicago admission officers are looking out for!

Helpful Tips for Prompt 2

1. remember your purpose..

Ultimately, you want your essays to show the admissions officers a facet of your personality that they want to see at UChicago in the fall. While you should write freely, the creativity of prompts means it’s easy to deviate from the prompt. If the prompt asks you to write a letter, tell a story, or argue a point of view, make sure you’re doing that, even as your imagination runs wild.

2. Get someone (or three) to proofread.

There is no quicker essay-killer than a bad typo during the good part. While this advice applies to anything you write, it is especially crucial for this type of essay since you’re likely not sticking to a standard paragraph format. Writing dialogue, keeping tenses in a story, and even staying consistent in your tone and vocabulary isn’t easy. Pick people who know you and your voice. Increase the font size to check for spacing and spelling errors. Break down each paragraph into one-sentence summaries, and check that the flow of the essay moves smoothly.

3. If you choose to write on your own prompt, keep the scope narrow.

The “choose your own prompt” option is always a temptation. Sometimes it’s an excellent choice! But it can be hard to keep the bigger goal in mind when deciding what to write. Your purpose is to display your writing abilities on a specific topic while showing admissions a bit of your personality.

4. Admissions officers are human beings too.

UChicago’s fun prompts highlight a critical aspect of all college admission essays: no formula will guarantee entry or even predict your college experience. The answer to the prompts is not as important as how you express your thoughts. Don’t write what you think UChicago wants to hear. If you’re not confident in your humor, rely on persuasion instead. If you are excited about a contentious topic, write with the same balance and respect you’d use when talking to a human being.

Final Thoughts

The UChicago essays are offbeat and eccentric. Try to have fun with them. The committee wants you to convey a sense of playfulness, hoping these essays will help them better understand your personality.

What Makes Crimson Different

Key Resources & Further Reading

• University of Chicago University Profile
• MIT Supplemental Essay 2021/22
• Harvard Supplemental Essay 2021/22
• Columbia Supplemental Essay 2021/22
• Princeton Supplemental Essay 2021/22
• Acing your College Application Essay: 5 Expert Tips to Make it Stand Out from the Rest
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University of Chicago 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 2

You Have: 

University of Chicago 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 2 essays of 1-2 pages each

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why , Oddball

This is it, the infamous U Chicago supplemental application. These quirky prompts have been a rite of passage for generations of applicants, so before you dive in, just remember: if they could do it, so can you! Your goal in writing your Chicago extended essay should be the same as ever: to reveal something new to admissions. It might even help to have a few ideas in mind before reading through your options. These prompts are so specific and strange that, in the end, the key is just to follow your instincts. What speaks to you right away? What inspires you?

Question 1 ( Required )

How does the university of chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to uchicago..

Think of this run-of-the-mill why essay as the overture to your magnum opus (i.e. the Extended Essay). Chicago wants you to cover all the bases – “learning, community, and future” – so as with any why essay, you’d best buckle down and do your homework. The more specific details you can incorporate into your essay, the more sincere and personal it will feel (and be!). Explore both academic and extracurricular opportunities. How will you pursue your interest in oceanography? With a major in biology and a semester in Australia? What research opportunities will you pursue? Will joining the club crew team help you feel more connected to aquatic life despite your midwest location? One thing you won’t find on the school website, though, is that third piece, that “future” thing. Think about where you’d like to be five or ten years from now – your career or the impact you’d like to have or even just a geographic location. How will a U Chicago education help you get there? How will your scholarly and social pursuits help you grow? Show admissions how U Chicago is the bridge between the person you are and the person you hope to be.

Question 2: Extended Essay ( Required; Choose one )

Essay option 1, exponents and square roots, pencils and erasers, beta decay and electron capture. name two things that undo each other and explain why both are necessary., – inspired by emmett cho, class of 2027.

Ah, an essay about balance. Typos and autocorrect come to our mind immediately, and not just because our brains often think faster than our fingers can type! The examples admissions have provided do a great job of showing how you can take this idea in multiple directions and apply it to any discipline. What about pasta sauce and our Tide To Go pens? Not a day goes by that we’re not dreaming of penne alla vodka or pappardelle with arrabbiata and the resulting stains we’ll be wearing for the rest of the night! (Just us?) Use this prompt as a way to go deeper into one (or more) aspects of your life, and remember that the prompt is merely a springboard, a jumping off point. Don’t be afraid to write and see what comes of it—you can always backspace later to undo it!

Essay Option 2

“where have all the flowers gone” – pete seeger. pick a question from a song title or lyric and give it your best answer..

– Inspired by Ryan Murphy, AB’21

Well, well, well, if this isn’t a fabulous prompt for art lovers and philosophers, alike. “What would you do?” (a thoughtful question asked by members of City High). “Are we out of the woods yet?” (a question repeated over and over by Taylor Swift).. “What’s love got to do with it?” (an evergreen inquiry from the great late Tina Turner). Think through some of your favorite tunes and select a question that strikes a chord within you (music puns!), then start writing. This is one of those prompts where your final product can vary greatly from your initial plan—or not! The important thing is not to rush the process; explore the question posed by an artist who has touched you, then leave yourself plenty of time to shape and finetune your writing into a polished essay worthy of submission to the University of Chicago. If you’re lucky, you can finish your draft weeks before it’s due. “Wouldn’t it be nice?” – The Beach Boys.

Essay Option 3

“vlog,” “labradoodle,” and “fauxmage.” language is filled with portmanteaus. create a new portmanteau and explain why those two things are a “patch” (perfect match)..

– Inspired by Garrett Chalfin, Class of 2027

This might just be our favorite prompt of this admissions season, since you can take it in just about any direction you like. If nothing comes immediately to mind, try taking a piece of paper and writing down a list of things you like to do or aspects of your identity that are important to you. This prompt is fantastic because you can use it to write an essay about two areas of your life that may not otherwise intersect in an obvious way and give admissions a chance to better understand who you are in the process! Maybe the two words you choose are “introvert” and “performer,” because the stage allows you to express yourself in ways you never would in day-to-day life, giving you “introformer”! (Which sounds like a really cool robot, just saying.) Or perhaps you are chomping at the bit to write an essay about your experience in the Atlanta ballroom dance community as a proud Latina. “Lattrot?” Whatever two aspects of your identity, personality, or background you choose to write about, remember to have fun with it – and UChicissions (UChicago admissions) will too!

Essay Option 4

A jellyfish is not a fish. cat burglars don’t burgle cats. rhode island is not an island. write an essay about some other misnomer, and either come up with and defend a new name for it or explain why its inaccurate name should be kept..

– Inspired by Sonia Chang, Class of 2025, and Mirabella Blair, Class of 2027

This playful, creative prompt will likely call to those who can think of a few examples off the top of their heads. Maybe you think of fireflies, which aren’t flies (or fire for that matter) at all, but beetles. Do you think they should be renamed accordingly, since words and categorization matter? Or do you think “fireflies” should be kept, since the name has become something bigger than the bug itself, and no one will think fondly of summers at their grandmother’s house catching “luminescent beetles”? Ultimately, your argument will (hopefully) show admissions how your brain works and pepper in a few insights as to the kinds of things you hold dear along the way.

Essay Option 5

Despite their origins in the gupta empire of india or ancient egypt, games like chess or bowling remain widely enjoyed today. what modern game do you believe will withstand the test of time, and why.

– Inspired by Adam Heiba, Class of 2027

Calling all game-fanatics: this is the perfect opportunity to wax poetic about your favorite pastime! Whether you’re convinced that Dungeons and Dragons is here to stay or that cyborgs will be playing Uno in space station community halls in 2123, this is the opportunity for you to make your case. Now, there are some pitfalls that come with this prompt, so beware. Although admissions is asking about games, they really want to get to know the player behind the game (i.e. YOU). Use this prompt to offer admissions more insight into who you are and what makes you tick. Don’t slip down the slope of dedicating too many words to explaining rules and intricacies; instead, reflect on why you love the games you do and why you think gameplay is important to humanity or what is required to withstand the test of time. 

Essay Option 6

There are unwritten rules that everyone follows or has heard at least once in their life. but of course, some rules should be broken or updated. what is an unwritten rule that you wish didn’t exist (our custom is to have five new prompts each year, but this year we decided to break with tradition. enjoy).

– Inspired by Maryam Abdella, Class of 2026

This prompt option will likely jump out to those who have been questioning the silly little things humans do since they were toddlers. Well, here’s your chance to call us out. Maybe you’ve always been an incredibly direct person and consistently puz zled by the way the people in your community communicate between the lines. Or, perhaps there is just one unwritten rule that you’d like to strike down for the rest of eternity (NO MORE TALKING TO STRANGERS ON HIKING TRAILS!). See how you can finesse your response to reveal more information about your interests, goals, and character through an unsavory unspoken cultural agreement.

Essay Option 7

And, as always… the classic choose your own adventure option in the spirit of adventurous inquiry, choose one of our past prompts (or create a question of your own). be original, creative, thought provoking. draw on your best qualities as a writer, thinker, visionary, social critic, sage, citizen of the world, or future citizen of the university of chicago; take a little risk, and have fun.

We love all the prompts from the past —there are so many quirky ones! If this year’s questions aren’t inspiring you, don’t be afraid to peruse the archives to find one that stands out to you. If you belong at UChicago, there is no doubt you will find a prompt that sparks a story within you. 

We’d also like to note that this is a great opportunity for recycling essays. If you wrote a strong longform essay for another school, see if any of the old prompts work in your favor, or make up your own question custom-built for your essay. Good luck! 😊

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, looking for uchicago supplemental essay examples.

Hello all! I'm applying to UChicago and was hoping to find some successful examples of their supplemental essays. Do you know where I can find some or did you come across any useful strategies while writing yours? Appreciate any help!

Hello! It's a great idea to look at examples to get a better understanding of what UChicago might be looking for in their supplemental essays. You're in luck because UChicago is known for its unique and creative essay prompts, which can make for some exciting examples!

Firstly, I recommend checking out the UChicago Admissions website itself. They often feature past years' successful essays from admitted students. This is a valuable resource that shows exactly what UChicago appreciated in those essays. You can find some examples here: https://collegeadmissions.uchicago.edu/apply/uchicago-supplemental-essay-questions

Another great source for sample essays is CollegeVine, whose guides cover a variety of schools, including UChicago. You can check out this link for guidance on writing UChicago supplemental essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-uchicago-essays-2023-2024

For actual example essays from real students, take a look at this article: https://blog.collegevine.com/uchicago-essay-example

Remember, these essays are an opportunity to demonstrate your creativity, critical thinking, and passion for learning. A unique and well-executed response will make a memorable impression on the admissions committee. Good luck!

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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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 4 tips for writing a stand-out 'why uchicago' essay.

College Essays

For students applying to the University of Chicago, the "why UChicago?" essay is more straightforward than most of the other essay prompts you'll see, but it can still be intimidating to try to figure out how you should tackle this essay.

What should you mention? What will impress the admissions team? What are they really looking for in your response?

We break down the "why UChicago?" essay, explain everything the University of Chicago is looking for in this essay, suggest topics to write about that'll help you stand out, and provide "why UChicago?" essay examples to help get your creative juices flowing.

The Why UChicago Essay Prompt

The "why UChicago?" essay is the only prompt that shows up every year on the UChicago application. It's also the only prompt that everyone must answer (you'll have multiple prompts to choose between for the other essay). This alone should tell you that the University of Chicago takes applicants' responses to this prompt very seriously.

Here is the prompt:

"How does the University of Chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future? Please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to UChicago."

There is no strict word limit to this essay, but UChicago suggests a response of one to two pages.

What Is the Purpose of This Essay?

Why does UChicago require applicants to answer this essay? What are they really looking for in your response? Let's analyze this prompt.

No matter which schools you're applying to, "why our college?" is probably the most common prompt you'll see on college applications, and for good reason: colleges, including the University of Chicago, want to see that you really want to attend their school. Why? Applicants who love UChicago are more likely to accept an offer of admission, be committed to their studies, participate in extracurriculars, and give back after they graduate.

If you show in your essay that you really love UChicago, it makes admissions officers feel more confident you're going to have a significant and positive impact on their school.

If you can't give any compelling reasons for choosing UChicago or you don't seem to have done much research on it, that makes UChicago admissions staff worry that you're not that invested and will do only the bare minimum in college without having much of an impact at the school or afterward. They may also think you don't really care about getting into their school, which can make them less likely to admit you.

Additionally, UChicago asks you to write this essay to ensure that you and their school are a good fit for each other . If you use the "why UChicago?" essay to talk about how much you love Division I sports teams or how you want to be a famous geologist, the admissions team may hesitate to offer you a place because their sports teams are Division III and they don't have a geology major.

Ultimately, the purpose of this essay has two parts: UChicago wants to make sure you know and value what they offer, and they also want to see how you're going to make use of these opportunities to reach your goals for the future.

What Should You Write About in Your "Why UChicago?" Essay?

There are multiple ways to approach this essay prompt. However, since UChicago is best known for its academics, most applicants will make sure that at least part of their response touches on coursework and specific majors.

Here's a list of possible topics you can write about:

• Majors or classes you're especially interested in
• The UChicago Core curriculum
• Professors whose work you admire and whom you'd like to study with or research with
• Extracurriculars that you'd be interesting in joining
• The school's intense academic atmosphere
• UChicago Scav
• Research opportunities you'd like to have
• Small class size and discussion-based classes
• UChicago students you've met who you admire
• Volunteer opportunities
• Financial aid opportunities UChicago offers that make it possible for you to attend

In your response, you should choose about one to three reasons why you think the University of Chicago is the best school for you. For each reason, you should describe what UChicago offers and connect it back to your interests and skills to show how you're a good match for the school. Remember to answer the prompt completely; this means talking about both the learning and community at UChicago, as well as your plans for the future and how UChicago can help you achieve them.

Tips for a Great Response to the Why UChicago Essay

Regardless of how you decide to answer this prompt, there are four tips everyone should keep in mind to make sure they're fully answering the question, giving the information UChicago wants to see, and making sure they stand out from other applicants.

#1: Do Your Research

Before you begin writing your response to this essay prompt, you should know exactly why you want to attend the University of Chicago. There are multiple ways to do this research:

• School website
• Course catalog
• School newspaper
• Campus visit
• Meeting with an alum or current student
• Meeting with a professor

#2: Be Specific

From your research, you should have come up with specific reasons why UChicago is a great school for you. The more specific you can be when answering this prompt, the better. Don't say UChicago has great academics, caring professors, and an interesting student body. Most schools have that.

Instead, try to mention opportunities only UChicago can provide, such as specific professors, course names, extracurriculars, or research opportunities. The things you discuss should be things your other top schools don't offe— things that really make UChicago stand out.

#3: Show Your Passion

UChicago wants students who care a lot about their studies and their school, so make sure this comes across in their response. A bland statement like, "I am impressed by UChicago's strong economics program" doesn't tell the school anything about you or help you stand out from other applicants.

You've done your research to mention specific qualities of UChicago that have enticed you, and now you need to discuss specific qualities about yourself as well . Why does the economics program make you so excited? What do you want to get out of it? Do you want to use your knowledge to study the economies of different developing countries and use that knowledge to fight global poverty? That's what you should write about.

Showing a passion that's unique to you will help differentiate you from other applicants and show UChicago that you're going to take your studies seriously.

#4: Discuss Your Vision for the Future

The "Why UChicago?" prompt clearly asks you to connect your desire to attend UChicago with your future goals. So let them know your plans!  Do you hope to use your time at UChicago as a launching pad for a career as a researcher at Fermilab? Do you want to major in theater and performance studies and eventually open a drama school for underserved kids?  UChicago wants students who dream big, so let them know what your dreams are.

"Why UChicago?" Essay Examples

To help you get a better idea of what a great response to this prompt can look like, below are two Why UChicago essay examples. The first is an excerpt of an essay written by an admitted student, and the second is an essay we wrote. After the examples we explain what makes them excellent responses.

As I prepare to leave my home for a university, I dream of joining the University of Chicago community. In all honesty, UChicago is probably the only university that will accept and even encourage my eclectic thinking and passion for finding adventure in everyday life. Although I hope to major in Computer Science, I also want to study political science and the Italian language to the extent that I can confidently debate Thomas Hobbes' Leviathan and copy Dante's terza rima poetry. I want to learn about game theory and astrophysics not just in surface-level introductory classes, but through in-depth discussion and analysis. At UChicago, the Core curriculum will feed my hunger for a broad undergraduate education by guaranteeing  that one-third of my studies will be dedicated to the exploration of the humanities, sciences, and arts. I yearn to engage in vibrant discussion with UChicago musicians who study neurosciences, business majors who star in theatrical productions, and psychology students who are learning Mandarin. At any other school, I would be an untraditional student, but at UChicago, I will fit right in. Traditional warrior princesses feel at home in castles; it is no surprise that UChicago's campus is full of them. At UChicago, surrounded by diverse thinkers and unique personalities of every kind, I know that I will feel at home, too. — Samantha M.

It was reading an issue of the Chicago Shady Dealer that made me know the University of Chicago was the right school for me. Any school that produced a satire paper that included hilarious and clever articles joking about students taking a math class in an abandoned parking garage or hysterical preaching and projectile vomiting during alumni weekend was a place where I knew I'd belong.

After speaking with a current UChicago student, I felt even more strongly that this is the school for me.  This student is a Creative Writing major, as I plan to be, and he mentioned so many opportunities for University of Chicago students to publish their writing, from the Shady Dealer , to the Chicago Maroon , to Sliced Bread . My only concern was having enough time to write for all these publications! I'm especially interested in the student magazine Diskord because of its focus on student opinions of national and global news. Many people dismiss young people as uninformed or naïve, but I've found many have my peers have extremely important things to say, and it's important to hear each other. The student I spoke with on the phone also mentioned that he was able to combine his interests in poetry and French Literature, and I really like how interdisciplinary the major is.

Theater and scriptwriting is something I've always been interested in learning more about, and I think University of Chicago's theater workshops and groups like Court Theatre could help me gain more skills in this area. People joke the University of Chicago is where fun comes to die, but from what I've seen, it's just the opposite. I've never met a group of students who were so funny, creative, and intent on making an impact, and I'd love to be a part of that.

Why Do These Essays Work?

• Answer the entire prompt:  Both of these responses answer every part of the "Why UChicago?" essay prompt. They mention the type of learning the writers hope to receive, the type of community they want to be surrounded by, and what their plans for the future are.
• Give details:  There are many details in both these responses, such as specific classes the authors want to take, what they want to major in, specific extracurriculars, and school publications they want to join.
• Show where they fit in: It's clear from reading these essays how the authors see themselves fitting in at UChicago The first hopes to major in computer science while also debating famous literary works with fellow classmates, whereas the second wants to become a writer for school papers and possibly work on theater productions. They've shown that UChicago has opportunities they want to take part in and contribute to, and they tie this into their goals for the future.

The "Why UChicago?" essay likely won't be the make-or-break factor in your application, but it can help give the admissions teams a good idea of why UChicago is a great fit for you .   The purpose of this essay prompt is for you to show UChicago that you've done research on their school, you feel it's a good fit for you, and you already know some of the opportunities at the school you want to make the most of.

In your UChicago essay, you can write about multiple topics, including academics, the student body, extracurriculars, and research opportunities. Just make sure to thoroughly research the school, be specific, show your passion, and mention plans you have for the future. When in doubt, don't forget to check out successful "Why UChicago?" essays!

What's Next?

You'll need to write one other essay when you apply to the University of Chicago. Check out our other guide to learn how to tackle both UChicago essays .

The "Why This College?" is a common essay topic on college applications. Learn how to write a great "Why This College" essay for every school you're applying to by reading our guide on the topic.

Want to see some more college essay examples? We have links to 145 great college essays that includes our expert analysis on how you can write a standout essay of your own.

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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5 UChicago Supplemental Essay Examples

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• college application essays

The University of Chicago is one of the most competitive U.S. universities known for its economics, statistics and mathematics undergraduate programs. But for college applicants, the school is probably best known for its out-of-the-box, creative supplemental essay prompts.

To apply to UChicago , students must submit an additional supplemental essay – what’s referred to as the Extended Essay. UChicago releases 5 new essay prompts inspired by their students every year, along with a set of past prompts applicants can choose from.

While students are encouraged to be creative, how creative can you (or should you) be? For those interested in applying to UChicago , here are a few examples of essays that worked:

Prompt from 2016-2017 season:

Vestigiality refers to genetically determined structures or attributes that have apparently lost most or all of their ancestral function, but have been retained during the process of evolution. In humans, for instance, the appendix is thought to be a vestigial structure. Describe something vestigial (real or imagined) and provide an explanation for its existence. —Inspired by Tiffany Kim, Class of 2020

University of Chicago ‘21

“People often ask me if I’m scared that I’ll go deaf in the other ear, too. The thought echos in my head sometimes, and it’s certainly an ear-y thought, but I’m not too worried. In some ways, losing a part of my hearing has made the world louder. Instead of focusing on what I lost, I began to appreciate what I always had. Every moment—whether it be the off-tune singing of my little brother in the shower, or the melodious chords from my ukulele—is something to note.”

Prompt from 2015-2016 season:

Joan of Arkansas. Queen Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Babe Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Mash up a historical figure with a new time period, environment, location, or occupation, and tell us their story. — Inspired by Drew Donaldson, Class of 2016

University of Chicago ‘20

“The ball flies to Scottie Pippen, he pulls up, but the shot bounces out. The crowd goes silent. But Rodman grabs the rebound, hooks it to Jordan who scores a three pointer. Everyone in the stadium goes wild, except one man: Napoléon Bonaparte.  “All according to plan” he whispers to himself.

Little does the public know, Napoleon instructed his stars to keep the game close. In reality his superstars could have won easily.  But he needs to attract national attention for the next part of his plan.  

As a child Napoleon obsessed over pop culture. He couldn’t believe the power celebrities held in society; people would trust them with their children, beliefs, and even their spending. After Reagan’s election, he strived to tap into this power. Napoleon would conquer America.”

Prompt from 2014-2015 season:

A neon installation by the artist Jeppe Hein in UChicago’s Charles M. Harper Center asks this question for us: “Why are you here and not somewhere else?” — Inspired by Erin Hart, Class of 2016.

University of Chicago ‘19

“I am here because I can’t be in two places at once. That’s definitely a law of physics or some kind of science I don’t know much about, but that’s the short answer to why I’m not somewhere else, or lots of other places. To know why I’m here, on Earth, in America, in California, in Berkeley, at my house sitting on my favorite worn leather couch, with light from three windows making it hard to see my laptop screen, is a longer story.”

In French, there is no difference between “conscience” and “consciousness”. [...] All of these require explanation in order to properly communicate their meaning, and are, to varying degrees, untranslatable. Choose a word, tell us what it means, and then explain why it cannot (or should not) be translated from its original language. — Inspired by Emily Driscoll, Class of 2018

“Raising the issue of translatable versus untranslatable words is futile; new words should enter a language because of a cultural need to express a specific idea, not just because they can be translated from other languages. Terminology is always a function of development: when a new concept – be it tangible or intangible – enters a society, the language evolves and adapts so that its speakers can discuss the new topic.”

What’s so odd about odd numbers? — Inspired by Mario Rosasco, Class of 2009.

“Why was Six Afraid of Seven?

In the beginning there was zero, and then there was One. Zero and One ruled the universe with undisputed power; together they formed the perfect union. Perfection diminished when One began to feel superior to Zero, and departed his company to rule alone. He quickly discovered the powers of addition, and created Two. Two was to be his new companion, to help oppress the rest of the numerical universe. One began training Two in the dark magic he had discovered. However, Two found One to be a little unhinged, and he sensed a certain instability.”

———-

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About The Author

Frances was born in Hong Kong and received her bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University. She loves super sad drama television, cooking, and reading. Her favorite person on Earth isn’t actually a member of the AdmitSee team - it’s her dog Cooper.

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How to Write the University of Chicago Essays 2020-2021

We’ve updated this post! Read the 2021-2022 UChicago essay guide .

UChicago is a rigorous, top-tier school located in beautiful Hyde Park, Chicago. It’s famed for its research emphasis, neo-gothic architecture, and school of economics. If you’re interested in delving deep into theory, bookishness, and the most hardcore of academic materials, UChicago may be your place. Forbes ranks its Booth Business College #1 in the nation, and US News and World Report ranks UChicago as a whole at #6. In 2020, its acceptance rate was 7.94%, so steel yourself for the essay writing. It’s gotta be your best. 

You can complete your UChicago application through the Coalition App, Common App, and UChicago portals. Their essay questions for this season are on their website , as well as listed below. The first question, which boils down to “Why UChicago?,” is required. The second question, a one-to-two page essay, is also required, but applicants can choose from a menagerie of wild and exotic prompts. 

Want to know your chances at UChicago? Calculate your chances for free right now.

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

Before You Begin Writing

The University of Chicago’s prompts are famous – infamous! – for being quirky, creative, and sometimes downright weird. But don’t fret: this only means that you get to unleash your creativity and geek out about your deepest passions. You know that subject you avoid in casual conversation, because it turns you into a gushing ball of enthusiasm that could talk for hours ? UChicago wants to hear about it. Whether it’s the 70s rock scene in Zambia, Edmund Burke’s philosophy of the sublime, or your job at the antique mall, they have happily passed you the mic. 

It’s not a free-for-all, however. Keep this checklist of things in mind when writing your UChicago essays: 

Unconventional topics often require unconventional styles. 

UChicago essays should definitely be viewed as a piece of creative writing, rather than a dry analysis. Without being too informal, feel free to disrupt the familiar rhythms of essay prose. This can mean rich imagery and addressing the reader directly. Sentence fragments. CAPS, even. Throw in jargon from your field, and phrases from another language, as long as you explain them. To the extent that it’s authentic to your voice and your subject matter, you should try to be imaginative, engaging, and colorful. 

Communicate who you are as an academic.

Make sure you provide admissions with a portrait of how you will perform in an academic environment. You can’t just gush about a topic – you have to prove that you can engage with it at a high intellectual level. Explain research protocol, cite specific books you’ve read, mention your AP classes, or give examples of how you’ve collaborated with others to produce results. UChicago admissions don’t want a student who says “I love physics”; they want a student who says “I love physics so much that I stayed up until 4 am reading Cosmos by Carl Sagan, and I use meatballs to diagram the moons of Jupiter to my friends, and I took Calc III because I plan on studying mechanical engineering with a focus on aerospace materials.” Be detailed about your studies; be explicit in your interests. 

Marry yourself to your topic.

Dearly beloved, you can’t have a “unique” topic without “u.” Be sure to include the first person; you are the main character here, not whatever subject you’re writing about. UChicago is deciding to admit you – not your botany experiment, not your gymnastics record, not your novel – you. How do these objects illuminate facets of your personality? What can you bring to this topic that no one else can? 

And, as always, answer the prompt!

Print out the prompt. Circle key words. Hang it over your desk. Read it. Read it again. Mark out places in your essay where you will address each specific element of the question. Do everything to track down all the sneaky requirements hidden in the prompt forest, hit them between the ears, and mount them on the cabin wall that is your essay. 

All the UChicago Essay Prompts

Prompt 1 (required).

How does the University of Chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future? Please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to UChicago. 

Prompt 2: Extended Essay (Required; Choose one)

Choose one of the seven extended essay options and upload a one- or two-page response. please include the prompt at the top of the page..

Essay Option 1

Who does Sally sell her seashells to? How much wood can a woodchuck really chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood? Pick a favorite tongue twister (either originally in English or translated from another language) and consider a resolution to its conundrum using the method of your choice. Math, philosophy, linguistics… it’s all up to you (or your woodchuck).

—inspired by blessing nnate, class of 2024.

Essay Option 2

What can actually be divided by zero?

—inspired by mai vu, class of 2024.

Essay Option 3

The seven liberal arts in antiquity consisted of the Quadrivium — astronomy, mathematics, geometry, and music — and the Trivium — rhetoric, grammar, and logic. Describe your own take on the Quadrivium or the Trivium. What do you think is essential for everyone to know?

—inspired by peter wang, class of 2022.

Essay Option 4

Subway maps, evolutionary trees, Lewis diagrams. Each of these schematics tells the relationships and stories of their component parts. Reimagine a map, diagram, or chart. If your work is largely or exclusively visual, please include a cartographer’s key of at least 300 words to help us best understand your creation.

—inspired by maximilian site, class of 2020.

Essay Option 5

“Do you feel lucky? Well, do ya, punk?” – Eleanor Roosevelt. Misattribute a famous quote and explore the implications of doing so.

—inspired by chris davey, ab’13.

Essay Option 6

Engineer George de Mestral got frustrated with burrs stuck to his dog’s fur and applied the same mechanic to create Velcro. Scientist Percy Lebaron Spencer found a melted chocolate bar in his magnetron lab and discovered microwave cooking. Dye-works owner Jean Baptiste Jolly found his tablecloth clean after a kerosene lamp was knocked over on it, consequently shaping the future of dry cleaning. Describe a creative or interesting solution, and then find the problem that it solves.

—inspired by steve berkowitz, ab’19, and neeharika venuturupalli, class of 2024.

Essay Option 7

In the spirit of adventurous inquiry (and with the encouragement of one of our current students!) choose one of our past prompts (or create a question of your own). Be original, creative, thought provoking. Draw on your best qualities as a writer, thinker, visionary, social critic, sage, citizen of the world, or future citizen of the University of Chicago; take a little risk, and have fun!

How does the university of chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to uchicago..

The pressure’s on to be unique here, since EVERY SINGLE APPLICANT to UChicago will be answering this required question. Here’s what you need to do:

Provide a tangible connection to UChicago. 

This is composed of specific elements of the university that appeal to you, and UChicago’s website is a great place to delve into these. Be sure to be “particular,” as they stipulate, and give them the “specificity” they’re asking for. Examples include research opportunities at Argonne Labs, the marketing classes in the Business School, or an internship offered through the Creative Writing program. 

Don’t write about UChicago’s general attributes, like fame, prestige, or “intellectual rigor.” And please don’t try to be clever and refute the old canard that UChicago is the place “Where Fun Goes to Die.” Applications readers have seen this hundreds, if not thousands of times. And besides, why talk about a tired UChicago stereotype when you can talk about something actually cool? 

Describe your intangible connection as well. 

How is UChicago a place that aligns with your values, dreams, and goals? How do you vibe with it? For example, if I wanted to write about the Creative Writing internship, I would state explicitly how it draws me in: 

“I want to attend a college that values the innovative nature of indie comics publishing as much as I do. So, I’m impressed by UChicago’s commitment to providing internships in comics writing through Bult Publishing and The Artifice magazine. One of my goals as a writer is to gain firsthand experience in comics publishing, specifically small houses, and the Creative Writing program at UChicago hits the mark, resoundingly.”

Engage with faculty and students, if possible. 

This is a perfect place to talk about specific interactions, like sitting in on an inspiring seminar during a campus visit, hearing a professor speak, or seeing how UChicago has prepared a friend for his career. 

However, always be sure to tie these experiences into your own goals and interests! For example, don’t just name-drop a certain Professor Smith. Instead, take the opportunity to find a personal connection to Smith’s research and how great UChicago is for supporting people like her. Your format should be

        Program/Individual/Major 🡪 UChicago’s Values 🡪 My values

If you want to learn more about a specific professor or their subject, don’t be afraid to politely email them or contact their department. Many love to talk about their work and their interests, or would love to put you in touch with current students. This will better inform you about the school and give you a great edge for this prompt. And, more importantly, you’ll probably get great advice for your higher education journey. Note: the earlier you prepare for this, the better!

It’s worth noting that there is no recommended essay length, but sticking to around 500 words should do the trick. It’s long enough to share the reasons you’ll thrive at UChicago, but not too long that the admissions officers will start to get bored.

Prompt 2: Extended Essay (Required, Choose one)

Option 1: tongue twister.

Like we said, this is bizarre. And it seems like a lot when you read it all at once. So be sure to break it down into some key components.

“Pick a tongue twister.” It’s useful, but not essential, to consider tongue twisters that have elements of your biography in them. For example, you might not know any woodchucks, but caring for a beaver as it built a dam at a local forest preserve definitely counts for something. Also note that “translated from another language” offers an interesting opportunity – it’s a good place to discuss your knowledge of a second language or unique cultural experience. 

However, note that while personal relevance is an interesting element, what’s ultimately important is the method and analysis below. A tongue-twister you’ve never used, but that allows you to show off your skills, is always better than a tongue-twister you grew up with, but has nothing to do with your studies. 

“ Consider a resolution to its conundrum.” Identify some sort of conundrum within the tongue twister. This can be a world-building issue – like the “To whom does Sally sell the seashells?” above. It can also be a lurking instability or menace within the rhyme. Or it can be an examination of a historic element that’s worked its way into the tongue twister. 

“…Using the method of your choice.” For this, you should pick the subject you know best and want to pursue in college . This is absolutely essential. For example, I could use my knowledge of French history to talk about the French tongue-twister “Les chaussettes de l’archiduchesse,” a rhyme about the dryness of an archduchess’ socks. By imagining it as a conversation between two maids in the ancien regime , I can show off my impressive knowledge of French court life and how working women were able to sharpen their wits even without an upper-class education. So a good strategy might be to pick your expertise – science, child psychology, business, linguistics – then pick a tongue-twister that you can really bust open. 

Find a greater meaning. Tongue-twisters are often trivial, and an essay about them risks falling into triviality as well. You can avoid this hidden trap by finding a “so what?” to your analysis. What lesson can we learn from your approach? Why has this tongue-twister been repeated for decades, or centuries? Have you discovered something unsettling, even disturbing, about a rhyme recited by children? You can include this greater meaning at the beginning, conclusion, or throughout.

Option 2: Dividing by Zero

Weird, weird, weird. This prompt is cryptic in its brevity, which offers a huge challenge to you as a writer. UChicago is giving you all the space for creativity. But here’s the trade-off: in return for this freedom, they want to see you discipline yourself, organize your thoughts, and pull this essay off like a choreographed dance. Get your exploratory brainstorming out of the way early-on, and stay focused. Be your reader’s tour guide; don’t get lost yourself. 

The obvious option: mathematics. If high-concept math is your thing, and you can explain it compellingly, feel free to discuss the actual question of dividing by zero. It’s a great place to talk about mathematical theories you’ve read, mathematicians you admire, or debates you’ve had in class. But be concrete. Your readers are probably not mathematics experts, so take a page from Carl Sagan: use figurative language, real-world objects, and simple language to illustrate your intimate understanding of the concepts. 

Treat it like a metaphor. Deconstruct the prompt and ask yourself, “What do we mean by division? And what do we mean by zero?” Can you think of situations in history, literature, drama, or psychology in which divisions between people are caused by zeroes – insignificant, or unknown, factors? For example, an actor might talk about the play Othello, in which the villainous Iago skillfully divides the characters by creating illusive, nonexistent problems. 

Consider different viewpoints and angles. In our everyday language, we take it for granted that division by 0 is impossible. But if you’re interested in philosophy, religion, or anthropology, this might be a great prompt to discuss what you know about “nothing/zero” and how different people have understood it. Is there a cultural and religious explanation for why medieval Indian mathematicians asserted that division by zero was possible? How did the ancient Mayans conceive of zero? And wait a second – if Christians believe everything in the universe is infinitely small compared to God, to the point of approaching zero, how was Satan able to create a divisive war throughout Creation? 

Suddenly, the question isn’t quite so simple, is it? This is a great prompt with which to discuss how our debates are enriched by listening to alternative perspectives and reconsidering the seemingly “obvious.” Show off your powers of critical thinking, and demonstrate that you can bring out the intellectual big guns. 

Remember: don’t lose focus on yourself and your personality. This is a daunting, abstract, almost cosmic question. No matter which approach you take, make sure to communicate your interest in the subject, your willingness to do research, and your unique voice. Remind your reader: “This is a cool person we don’t want to miss out on.” 

Option 3: Quadrivium and Trivium

Brainstorm a list, and give yourself time to think. Sleep on this prompt, because some topics might occur to you as you’re out living your life. This Trivium thing seems a bit boilerplate when you sit down to write about it like your typical essay. Math? Check. Reading? Check. But there may soon come a day when you think, Screw it. Everyone on earth should know how to weld a light-up Santa to the hood of their car. And guess which essay is going to grab UChicago’s attention?  

Education/anthropology students, this is your time! A society’s values are often reflected in its educational priorities. This is a great prompt for you to identify issues with modern education and offer solutions. Have you read any studies about programs that benefit low-performing students? Have you volunteered with any programs that taught life-changing skills to people? Discuss them here.  

Lean into the appeal of the numeric/list format. UChicago has historically liked prompts that focus on lists or number groups. So if this attracts you, go for it. You can defend a group of values that’s different from the Trivium/Quadrivium – such as the five virtues of Confucianism, or a Quintivium or Sextivium of your own invention. Be creative – combine the stoic principles of Marcus Aurelius with the New Rules of Dua Lipa. Just make sure you balance out personal whimsy with intellect, knowledge, and prowess. (I.e. give more space to Marcus Aurelius and Roman virtues than “New Rules.”) 

Consider an unconventional narrative style that weaves together a Trivium in practice. In the movie Slumdog Millionaire, we learn about the protagonist, Jamal, through flashbacks. As he’s asked random questions on a quiz show, we get to see the childhood experiences that enabled him to answer them. Can you think of a challenge that allowed you to synthesize three or four key skills? Start at that climactic challenge, and flash back to the preparation that you’ve done. Example: it’s your senior musical, and you’re on the verge of a panic attack onstage. But you use tips from psychology class, a lifetime of singing lessons, and the perseverance you learned from your family to pull through. This allows you to 1) show off your own biography, 2) show yourself overcoming a challenge, and 3) demonstrate you’re multi-dimensional.

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Our chancing engine factors in extracurricular activities, demographic, and other holistic details. We’ll let you know what your chances are at your dream schools — and how to improve your chances!

Option 4: Diagram, Map, Chart

This is another prompt that you need to break down into its key elements, because it’s a behemoth. Its visual component means that it can make a huge impression if done right, but it also demands a huge amount of work, so you want to make sure you’re expending your time in the right way. Needless to say, if you have artistic, drafting, or programming abilities, this would be a great place to showcase your skills. 

“Each of these schematics tells the relationship and stories of their component parts .” The key words here are “relationships” and “stories.” This means that your audience won’t just be looking for correlation, causation, directions, and lines of descent – they’re looking for a narrative and personal element. If you’re dealing with data, make sure to personalize it, either through pictures or through your written description. 

“Reimagine .” You have to fundamentally transform your diagram or data set in some way. Make us see something that wasn’t there before. There are plenty of real-world examples to draw inspiration from: for example, geophysicists in Mexico have used the present-day locations of caves and cenotes to analyze the impact of the Chicxulub object, the asteroid that most likely caused the dinosaurs’ extinction. Malcolm Gladwell is a great example of a writer who takes sets of data and interprets them in new ways, revealing unseen forces at work. What’s your data? And what’s the asteroid or secret history hidden behind it?

“Your creation .” This has to be your brainchild. While you can draw inspiration from existing discoveries or use existing stats, you should try your best to come up with your own final product. 

Combine unexpected fields ; think big, and think broad! There’s a lot of interesting new ideas to discover if you blend two fields that don’t typically go together. If you’re interested in both programming and literature, you could use statistical methods to compare authors’ word use and diagram it accordingly. Does Milton use the word “green” more than Shakespeare? WHY? 

Tie it back to your research values . Remember that UChicago asked this prompt because they want to get a pulse on your research philosophy. It’s worth including an explanation not only of your research, but your mindset in general, and the values you believe lead to productive research. Show yourself as someone who would thrive in an exploratory, research setting.

Option 5: Misattributed Quote

So this one seems pretty simple: they’re asking you to come up with a two-ingredient recipe. The hard part? Picking two ingredients that go together stunningly. 

Be wary of formulae. The example UChicago gives would be great for an aspiring historian interested in discussing Eleanor Roosevelt. But don’t think that you have to misattribute a quote to a historical figure only. Food for thought:

• Write about a person you know. For example, a member of your family who had a positive impact on your life. Could a fundamental lesson they taught you be paraphrased by a quote from Charles Dickens or N.K. Jemisin? 
• Discuss a real-life misattribution. There are plenty of famous ones: Marie Antoinette didn’t really say “Let them eat cake,” but the misattribution can tell us a lot about the French gossip magazines of the time. It’s also a fraught moral question: was the libel against Marie Antoinette worth it, because it led to the downfall of the French monarchy? Do the ends justify the means here? What’s the philosophy of misattribution? The psychology? The social implications?
• Combine media. Plenty of songwriters quote other songs, intentionally or (as was ruled in a famous copyright case ) “subconsciously.” Is there an example that reveals a lot about an artist or media culture that interests you? 
• Misattribute a quote to a non-person . What if your dog, your houseplant, or your favorite skeleton at a museum could talk? This is a great chance to talk about animal psychology, how plants communicate, or an exhibit that inspired an academic interest. 
• The list goes on! 

The key word is “implications.” The misattribution has to reveal something about the quote or the entity to which it’s misattributed. A person writing about Eleanor Roosevelt using the Dirty Harry quote might discuss, for instance, how “Do you feel lucky, punk?” could summarize Roosevelt’s tenacity when lobbying her husband to enact anti-lynching legislation.

You can also discuss “implications” in broader terms: for example, should education use punchy (incorrect) quotes to better help kids memorize historical figures? Should fictionalizations like Hamilton stray too far from the historical texts? Do embellishments and hot new phrases mislead the public perception of historical figures? 

As always, be sure to bring it back to who you are as a student and thinker. What are your priorities, and what concerns you about your quote/source duo? Involve yourself and your audience in the “implications” section of your essay. 

Option 6: Creative Solutions

Although this prompt includes examples of technological inventions, what’s really important here is the last sentence. If you put aside the first few sentences, the prompt becomes incredibly vast, and you can use it to write about almost any field you’re interested in. 

Did you notice the subtle weirdness? “Describe a… solution, and then find the problem.” Isn’t that… backwards? You can interpret this as a license to get weird with your style and organization. For example, you could take your reader backwards in time, from the final invention to the inciting incident, or even a childhood memory of your inventor. You could alternate between the past in present. You can also find a solution that fixes an unexpected problem: for example, drugs developed for a certain malady sometimes improve conditions for the sufferers of different diseases.

Do some digging; find the quirks and paradoxes. Often, some mundane items we find commonplace have interesting, controversial, or even bloody histories behind them. And sometimes problems have paradoxical solutions – like how patients with phobias are instructed to expose themselves increasingly to their phobias. One strategy for creating a compelling essay is to amplify these striking contradictions or lurid histories. 

The invention need not be physical. While we love our can openers and phones, there are a lot of inventions that aren’t things – they’re methods, systems, words, theories, names, university departments, religious doctrines, governments, languages, or ways of thinking. You can apply this “problem/solution” dynamic to almost any subject, but what’s important is that it’s thought-provoking, unique, and authentic to you. And you absolutely must demonstrate a thorough understanding of the invention’s development. 

The invention need not be positive. UChicago describes beneficial inventions, but you can also talk about inventions and protocols that ended up inflicting evil on the world. For example, you could talk about a policy, law, cultural norm, etc. that “solves” a problem that really doesn’t need solving, or “solves” the problems of some very bad people. If you want to be really deep, you could discuss invented problems that are – paradoxically – solutions of some kind, that serve dark ends or that reinforce harmful ideas. However, be sure to end your essay with a gesture towards solutions, progress, and identifying bad systems of thought so that the world can be improved.  

Cite sources! This is a research-based question, so make sure you credit the books, podcasts, movies, and articles you use. Demonstrate your aptitude as a scholar, and show your ability to synthesize a variety of sources. Don’t go overboard, and don’t let the citations drown out your own voice, but this is UChicago. Bring a bibliography to the gunfight. 

Ending the essay. If your solution can solve a single problem, that’s fine. But a great way to end the essay, and show that you can think about broad applications as well as specific circumstances, is to gesture towards other potential problems your invention solves/is still solving. Is there a certain attribute that allows it to be applied towards multiple situations? It’s also worthwhile to talk about the mindsets, values, and societal environments that allow us humans to create worthwhile solutions to our problems. If you’re moved, changed, or inspired by the invention you’re researching, discuss this. If there’s a certain philosophy or perspective instrumental in the creation of the invention, and it would benefit our world from being used more widely, discuss this too.

Option 7: Grab Bag

Again, this prompt is, on the surface, granting you a lot of leeway. UChicago even ends it with an exclamation point! But you should always remember: they expect a disciplined, thorough, rigorous essay. Don’t let your sense of fun and frolic drown out your serious intellectual ideas.

Pick a prompt that inspires you to write, and connects with your academic interests. If a prompt jumps out at you, and you’re immediately filled with ideas, it’s probably a good fit. Just take it slowly, jot your thoughts down, and get to work. 

Involve your personal connection to that prompt . If you’re not answering any of the 6 prompts UChicago has issued this year, the onus is on you to prove that you and the archival prompt you’ve picked are a match made in heaven. This means having a lot of knowledge and personal investment in your subject matter, and an angle/perspective totally unique to you. 

If making your own question , remember this: YOUR QUESTION IS YOUR HOOK. So make sure it’s not a question that could be found on a standard-issue application, like “When did I overcome a challenge?” or “What’s a place that feels like home?” These prompts are everywhere. They won’t get the job done, and they won’t make an unforgettable first impression. But “Why did I lock myself in the basement and watch The Bee Movie for eighteen hours?” That’s a different story. 

If you look at past UChicago prompts, they tend to be fond of certain things: numbered lists, fairy tales, common phrases, and items of pop culture that can be re-contextualized. They also like hearing your answers to famous questions, and you might have a unique answer to “Et tu, Brute?” or “Do you like pina coladas and getting caught in the rain?” Just remember that the novelty of the question, while the hook of your essay, is not its substance. If your biography and scholarly interests don’t involve pina coladas, or rain, you might just have to pick a different question to answer – as wonderful as that eternal question is. 

You have to do a lot of thinking for the UChicago essay – but don’t overthink it. There’s a reason why they give you a page limit, and not a word limit: they don’t want you to stress about cutting ten words, and they don’t want you to have to cut yourself off. Fully develop your ideas in a way that seems natural. If a paragraph needs to be a little thicker, or if you need to include a longer quote from your favorite author, don’t sweat it. 

You can look up lots of examples of essays online, but try not to get intimidated. It’s the nature of the UChicago essays to encourage everyone to showcase their expertise, so you’ll read a lot of essays and think, “Wow. I’ve never spent a month in Arizona digging up fossils. How can I ever compete?” Instead, try to think of the essays less as a Competition than as a Giant Celebration of everyone’s achievements and interests. It’s cliché but it’s true: everyone has something compelling about them, and the UChicago applications readers wouldn’t be giving out prompts like these if they didn’t believe it. 

If you’ve written your UChicago essay and are looking for feedback, we encourage you to create a free CollegeVine account and explore our resources. You’ll have access to free peer review services, through which students can peer review each others’ essays. We also offer free essay guides and other resources. We’re here to help you put your best foot forward, feel prepared, and deal with less stress this applications season.  Feel lucky, punk! 

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Ethan bueno de mesquita appointed dean of the harris school of public policy, uchicago scientists critique ‘the martian’ and discuss real exploration on mars.

The experiences that marooned astronaut Mark Watney had on Mars in the award-winning film, “The Martian,” were similar to those of robot rovers that a University of Chicago scientist helped design.

“Mark was a survivor and the rover is as well,” senior scientist Thanasis Economou told a full house at the Max Palevsky Cinema on Jan. 9, during a panel discussion following a special showing of the film. “The Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity was only supposed to run for three months, but it is still going after 11 years of operation,” said Economou, who has been involved with Mars missions for 40 years.

His remarks drew applause from the audience, as did a line in the film in which Watney, after making contact with Earth, said he had heard from one of his professors at “my alma mater, the University of Chicago.”

At the event, presented by Doc Films and Science on the Screen , a panel consisting of Economou, senior scientist at the Enrico Fermi Institute; Edwin Kite, assistant professor in geophysical sciences; and Mohit Melwani Daswani, postdoctoral scholar in geophysical sciences, discussed the scientific accuracy of the film in a session moderated by Andrew Davis, professor and chair of geophysical sciences.

“The Martian” tells the story of Watney, played by Matt Damon , who is left behind on Mars by fellow crew members who believe he died in a violent dust storm. He depends on his optimism and his background in science to survive.

After finding potatoes at the crew’s station, he decides to build a greenhouse and grow crops by cutting them in pieces and fertilizing the Mars dust with excrement. “I'm the greatest botanist on this planet,” he says, a remark that drew laughter from the audience.

The film won a Golden Globe as best picture in musical or comedy category. Damon received a Golden Globe as best actor in the same category. It received six nominations for Academy Awards, including best picture and best actor for Damon.

Economou, who helped develop some of the instruments used on Mars missions, showed slides of robots experiencing the Martian terrain as well as UChicago’s own astronaut, John Grunsfeld, who received a PhD in physics in 1988. Grunsfeld, associate administrator for the Science Mission Directorate at NASA, is a veteran of five spaceflights, including three to maintain or enhance the Hubble Telescope.

Images from various Mars missions showed mountains, plains and craters that were similar to those in the film. Dust from Martian storms covered the solar panels powering the robot many times, but dust devils would sometimes blow away the dust, allowing the robot to continue its work.

“We also got stuck several times in sand dunes and had to figure out a way to move forward,” Economou said. Like Watney, the scientists working with the rover had to use persistence and ingenuity to continue their mission.

Although the portrayal of the planet's terrain and dust storms was accurate, there are other facts scientists know about Mars that were represented incorrectly. Due to a very thin atmosphere, the Martian storms do not have the power to do the damage done in the movie.

“The movie didn’t portray the seasonal cycles on Mars. In winter, it gets very cold and dry ice falls from the sky at high altitudes, something that could damage equipment. This would not be a problem if the landing were at the equator,” Kite said.

Because of the thin atmosphere and the absence of a global magnetic field on Mars, astronauts flying to Mars will be subjected to a large dose of radiation from cosmic rays. “During the cruise flight there is little that can be done, but on the surface of Mars they could seek shelter underground that could provide sufficient protection,” Economou said.

Growing food on Mars would be difficult because Martian soil does not contain organic matter as does the soil on Earth, the panelists said.

Studying samples of rocks and dust from Mars would inform a mission to the planet, but samples have never been recovered and taken to Earth for analysis, Davis said.

But the future of Mars missions is dependent on government funding. NASA will be sending to Mars another lander mission, which was delayed from being launched this year for technical purposes. NASA also will participate in a mission planned by the European Space Agency in 2018, and it has announced plans for a new robotic science rover set to launch in 2020.

Davis also pointed out that the Chinese, whose own space program was part of the film also are developing an interest in Mars exploration. “It could be that the first person to land on Mars might not necessarily be from NASA,” he said.

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• Explore Prompt Templates to Support Learning with Critical AI Use

by Michael Hernandez | Apr 8, 2024 | Instructional design , Pedagogy

 “…learning to write with AI tools might be like learning photography with a DSLR camera, where the conceptual learning (light, motion, composition) is enhanced by the technical learning (figuring out what all those knobs and buttons on the camera do).” – Derek Bruff

While many educators have by now considered the well-noted concerns about generative AI and assessment, lost learning, and academic integrity, the spread of these tools also presents a number of concerns about a potential information literacy crisis , with AI tools creating more opportunities for tech-enabled misinformation in a variety of fields, including education , political campaigns , consumer reviews , and more.

“… these models should be used with caution…They can say things that are false, both because they may see false things on the Internet, and because they can just make things up that sound plausible and probable based on their training distributions. They also have the risk of just seeming so human-like, that people start treating them in ways that give them that trust in them more than they should, or are more influenced by the models than they should be, when interacting with an agent that is so fluent like this.”

Many writers on education have expressed the importance of AI literacy . (For a wider overview of this need, please see Maha Bali’s excellent post on the subject.) As Mike Caulfield, co-author of Verified: How to Think Straight, Get Duped Less, and Make Better Decisions about What to Believe Online argued recently on the Teaching in Higher Ed Podcast , “The big thing to remember with AI is in a world where anything can seem authoritative, provenance matters more. Knowing where it came from is going to matter a lot more than knowing whether it looks credible.” While using generative AI is not the only way to develop the skills to address this issue, experimenting with these tools can help us understand their affordances and prepare students (who may already be using these tools) to interact with them in critical and thoughtful ways, ways that also support your discipline-specific learning rather than threatening it.

This post presents a “ prompt book ” for generative AI use that has been written to model critical applications that engage the user in learning, as an alternative to the oft-discussed scenario of the past year, which usually consists of assignments submitted for passing grades with no learning having been achieved.

In service of exploration, instructors can copy and paste these sample prompts to begin considering use cases beyond essay completion. The prompts include the following situations:

• Paper topic exploration
• Translation practice
• Author roleplay
• Naysayer prompt
• Student peer reader
• Listener for learning

Feel free to use these prompts with an AI tool, bring your own thoughtful criticism, and even modify them as you see fit. What might thoughtful prompting and assessment of AI outputs look like in relation to your discipline or your class?

What Pre-Structured Prompts Offer

Across multiple scholars’ approaches to using generative AI tools in service of learning, a couple of key concepts continually appear:

• Accessing the right output
• Applying it thoughtfully

By providing the AI tool with thorough instructions that focus the outputs, users can generate useful responses for specific applications. However, for some new users, the results of unguided experimentation are either underwhelming or otherwise unrepresentative of the true affordances of these tools, positive or negative as the case may be. The resulting engagement cliff, which you may even have experienced yourself, can compromise the goal of promoting literacy and informed decision making about generative AI, which can exacerbate the issues these tools create.

The prompts in this resource can support users in more thoroughly considering their approaches to these tools. By specifying a persona and purpose to the tool, providing examples of ideal outputs, and even sequential conversational directions, the user can get a more accurate sense of what they can do, decide if it is desirable or undesirable for their teaching, and then apply that information to their work. By starting out with these structured templates, users can have an experience with the tool that promotes thoughtful use toward the goal of serving learning–rather than short-circuiting the process of learning. Based on those experiences, instructors and students may feel better informed and better empowered to either continue self-directed experimentation or make other decisions as suits their goals and needs.

Where Prompting Meets Pedagogy

The “Author Roleplay” prompt, for example, invites students to assign a persona of an author or historical figure to the AI and then do their own more traditional research to substantiate the claims it makes in the discussion using library resources, an invitation to engage with the material in an entertaining and sometimes surprising way while also getting better acquainted with important library tools. The example below from a discussion with Copilot playing John Dewey is a good illustration of this. (You can review a print version of this image in Google Docs as well.

These prompts were also inspired by scholars such as Cynthia Alby , a professor of secondary education who trains future educators using a “training wheels” approach to AI, in which she provides students with prompts to generate outputs such as learning objectives, which can be hard to craft for new educators. With Alby’s guidance, her students critique and revise the results, and then reprompt. In this cycle of “self-AI-self,” she finds that students can both build the same skills as before while also achieving those higher order skills with more guidance. Reflecting on this work, Alby found that actively engaging students with AI tools actually decreased their dependence on them. Another example from the prompts offered in this post that demonstrates this phenomenon is the “Naysayer Prompt,” which allows the student to share the argument they are making in an early draft of a paper and get an idea of some potential counterarguments they can consider in order to strengthen their work. Rather than taking that response and putting it directly into their paper, the outputs can give them something to react to, even if they ultimately reject it. (The newest edition of the widely-used writing textbook They Say/I Say also includes a chapter with prompts for similar use cases.)

If this is your first time using extensive generative AI prompting, it may be helpful to think of these prompts not as a perfect fit for your use case, but as a way to have a meaningful experience with these tools that helps you to envision your own use cases that suit your own needs. Remember, these tools tend to prioritize fluency over veracity in the responses they provide users, and as such these prompts are designed to produce results that help users exercise and sharpen critical thinking and research skills in the educational setting–not to generate reliable facts. While there is a large body of writing online about how to use generative AI tools to create professional final products, these prompts are meant to facilitate a different use case.

A technical note:

The prompts have been created using Microsoft Copilot (also known as Bing Chat). While they function best there, they also have been tested and should function in GPT-3.5, which is the free version of ChatGPT , and Claude 2 by Anthropic . While this information is meant to help readers who are interested in using these prompts, this does not constitute an endorsement of any of these tools, as UChicago Academic Technology Solutions does not currently have a designated official generative AI tool. Using Robert Gibson’s prompt creator template and Microsoft Copilot, I worked to create prompts for several learning and design situations that I hope will better demonstrate the affordances of generative AI tools to instructors who have questions about how to use them.

The Prompt Book

Ready to experiment with some prompts yourself? Access the February 2024 version of these prompts to copy, paste, experiment and modify as you see fit.

Further Resources

For more ideas on this topic, please see our previous blog posts about generative AI . For individual assistance, you can visit our office hours , book a consultation with an instructional designer , or email [email protected] . For a list of our and upcoming ATS workshops, please visit our workshop schedule for events that fit your schedule.

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