bentley supplemental essay

Bentley University

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• Essay prompt

Want to see your chances of admission at Bentley University?

We take every aspect of your personal profile into consideration when calculating your admissions chances.

Bentley University’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Why this college short response.

Please tell us specifically and in your own words which aspects of Bentley University prompted you to apply. In addition, if you are interested in a specific program/major, what attracted you to that program or area of study?

Diversity Short Response

Our students bring to campus a variety of experiences, cultures, and intersecting identities including race and ethnicity — aspects that are important to a rich educational experience and your success in college and beyond. You may use this section to discuss how race and ethnicity has affected your life, be it through discrimination, inspiration or otherwise.

Women‘s Scholarship Short Response 1

Write about a situation outside of academic classes in which you had to collaborate with others to create an outcome. What role did you play? What did you recognize about yourself in this process? What did you recognize about your peers? If you could do it over, what would you do differently?

Women‘s Scholarship Short Response 2

Comment on two to three elements of the Women’s Leadership Program that you are excited to learn or gain skills from and how those elements complement your current leadership abilities. How would this program specifically enhance your personal and professional goals, both during your time at Bentley as well as in your future career?

Common App Personal Essay

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

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Mastering Bentley University's Optional Supplemental Essays

Applying to Bentley University can be an exciting endeavor, especially with the opportunity to showcase your unique perspectives through their optional supplemental essays. Understanding how to effectively address these prompts can set your application apart. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate Bentley University’s supplemental essay options for 2024.

Bentley University's 2024 Optional Supplemental Essay Prompts

Here are the two optional essay prompts provided by Bentley University, each with a 250-word limit:

Design a new college course that responds to your desire to blend an area of business with the arts and sciences. Give your course an eye-catching title and describe the course content. Then explain why this course will set you up for career and life success. (250 words or fewer)

Our students bring to campus a variety of experiences, cultures, and intersecting identities including race and ethnicity—aspects that are important to a rich educational experience and your success in college and beyond. You may use this section to discuss how race and ethnicity has affected your life, be it through discrimination, inspiration or otherwise. (250 words or fewer)

These prompts are designed to allow you to highlight your creativity, interdisciplinary interests, and personal experiences. Here’s how to approach them effectively:

Prompt 1: Blending Business with Arts and Sciences

When tackling this prompt, aim to create a course that not only combines business with the arts and sciences but also reflects your interests and future aspirations. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

Identify a fusion subject that excites you—for example, “Neuroscience and Marketing” or “Ethical Business Practices through Literary Analysis.”

Describe the course structure. Detail the curriculum, potential guest lecturers, real-world applications, and projects.

Conclude by connecting the course to your personal goals—how it will prepare you for your desired career and contribute to your overall life success.

Remember, Sups AI can be a valuable resource here. It offers tailored brainstorming sessions and feedback to hone your essay, ensuring it resonates with the admissions committee.

Prompt 2: Discussing Race and Ethnicity

This prompt allows you to reflect on your personal experiences and the impact of race and ethnicity on your life. Here’s how to thoughtfully construct your response:

Identify a specific experience or series of experiences that have shaped your understanding of race and ethnicity.

Describe how these experiences affected you personally, socially, and academically.

Reflect on how these aspects have influenced your perspectives, goals, and preparedness for Bentley’s diverse campus.

If you find it challenging to articulate your story, consider leveraging Sups AI for personalized assistance. With one-on-one chats with current students, Sups can help you refine your narrative to make a compelling impression.

Regardless of the prompt you choose to answer, it’s essential to stay authentic, reflective, and concise within the 250-word limit. Highlight your unique voice and experiences to stand out.

For further insights and personalized feedback, Sups AI has already assisted over 10,000 students in gaining admission to top 50 schools in the US. Their AI-driven platform ensures your essays are impactful and polished, setting you on the path to success at Bentley University.

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The Comprehensive Guide to Bentley University

Are you a high school student with dreams of pursuing a business education at a prestigious university? Look no further than Bentley University! Known for its exceptional business programs and strong emphasis on experiential learning, Bentley University is a sought-after institution for aspiring business professionals. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the essential steps to increase your chances of gaining admission to Bentley University and set you on the path to success.

Step 1: Research and Understand Bentley University: Before embarking on your journey to Bentley, it is crucial to thoroughly research and understand the university's mission, programs, and campus culture. Explore Bentley's website, read brochures, watch videos, and connect with current students or alumni to gain insights into what makes Bentley unique. Familiarize yourself with the available majors, minors, and extracurricular opportunities that align with your interests and goals.

Step 2: Academic Excellence: Bentley University places a strong emphasis on academic achievement. To enhance your chances of admission, focus on maintaining a rigorous course load throughout high school. Take advanced placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses whenever possible, especially in subjects related to business, economics, mathematics, and computer science. Strive for excellent grades and aim to be in the top percentile of your class.

Step 3: Standardized Tests: Bentley University considers standardized test scores as part of the admission process. Prepare diligently for the SAT or ACT exams by taking practice tests, enrolling in test preparation courses, or utilizing online resources. Aim for scores that are competitive with Bentley's average admission statistics. It's important to note that Bentley University has become test-optional, meaning applicants are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores, but strong scores can still enhance your application.

Step 4: Personal Statement and Supplemental Essays: Crafting a compelling personal statement and supplemental essays is your chance to demonstrate your unique qualities, aspirations, and experiences. Reflect on your academic, personal, and extracurricular achievements and how they have shaped your desire to attend Bentley. Be authentic, showcase your passion, and articulate your future goals. Proofread and seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or counselors to ensure your essays are polished and impactful.

Step 5: Extracurricular Involvement: Bentley University values well-rounded individuals who actively participate in extracurricular activities. Engage in leadership roles, join clubs or organizations related to business, and participate in community service initiatives. Highlight your commitment, achievements, and the skills you have developed through these activities. Show that you can balance your academic responsibilities while making a positive impact outside of the classroom.

Step 6: Letters of Recommendation: Secure strong letters of recommendation that speak to your character, academic abilities, and potential for success at Bentley. Cultivate relationships with teachers, mentors, or supervisors who know you well and can attest to your abilities. Request recommendations in advance and provide them with a comprehensive overview of your achievements and aspirations. Follow up with a thank-you note to express your gratitude.

Step 7: Campus Visits and Demonstrated Interest: Although not mandatory, visiting the Bentley University campus can be beneficial as it allows you to experience the university's environment firsthand. Attend information sessions, take a campus tour, and engage with faculty and students. If visiting is not possible, engage with Bentley virtually by attending webinars, virtual tours, and online events. Demonstrating genuine interest in Bentley can positively impact your application.

Step 8: Timely Submission and Attention to Detail: Pay close attention to application deadlines and ensure that all required documents, including transcripts, test scores, essays, and letters of recommendation, are submitted on time. Review your application for accuracy and completeness, checking for any errors or omissions. Attention to detail reflects your commitment and organization skills.

Conclusion: Gaining admission to Bentley University requires dedication, academic excellence, and a well-rounded profile. By following this comprehensive guide, conducting thorough research, excelling academically, and showcasing your unique qualities and accomplishments, you'll increase your chances of securing a spot at Bentley University. Remember to stay true to yourself, pursue your passions, and put your best foot forward throughout the entire application process. Good luck!

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Supplemental Essay Guide 2024-25

What do the 2024-25 supplemental essay prompts really mean, and how should you approach them? CEA's experts are here to break them all down.

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Undergrad population.

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* Tuition filtering is based on out-of-state fees

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(nyu) 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, north carolina state 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, frequently asked questions.

It really depends. Typically, the more competitive the university, the more arduous the supplemental essay requirements. Most top universities ask for at least three supplemental essays, but some only require one short essay.

The most common supplemental essay topics are:

• The Why Essay , which asks applicants to discuss their interest in their intended major and/or the school in question.
• The Activity Essay , which asks applicants to describe their involvement in an activity that is meaningful to them.
• The Community Essay , which asks about a community the applicant belongs to and the role that community plays in their life (and vice versa!).
• The Diversity Essay , which often asks applicants to explore how they champion diversity and inclusion in their communities and/or how they engage with people from different backgrounds or who hold opposing views. 
• The Short Answer , which asks applicants to answer prompts in very few words (or characters) to add context to their application and a splash of personality.
• The Oddball Essay , which asks applicants to tap into their creativity to connect curveball questions to their lives and interests.

Just like with the Common App personal statement, you’re going to want to write authentically about yourself while addressing all parts of each supplemental essay prompt. Many schools want to better understand how you see yourself contributing to their campus community and/or diversity and inclusion efforts along with how you hope to use your education to achieve your goals. So, be honest and forward-thinking, and don’t forget to customize each supplemental essay so it’s specific to each school you’re submitting to. That means doing research and weaving information into your essays that demonstrates the amount of time and thought you’ve put into your application. 

We have a few successful supplemental essay examples in our Free Resources section.

Each admissions department has their own process for reviewing applications, and some admissions committees put more weight on supplemental essays than others, but all admissions departments that offer applicants the opportunity to pen additional essays are doing so for a reason: to better understand the applicant and compare similarly qualified candidates. It’s in the applicant’s best interest to not only provide admissions with as much information regarding their candidacy as possible, but also go the extra mile. At highly competitive institutions, admissions officers are looking for reasons to remove students from the applicant pool—don’t let poorly written or (*gulp*) incomplete supplemental essays work against you!

Absolutely not. Please do not reuse content from your Common App essay in your supplements. Although it’s possible for you to expand upon an idea, activity, or community that you mention in your Common App essay in your supplements, you should never recycle content or any phrasing word for word.

Start by reading through all the prompts. Next, jot down ideas that come to your mind (no matter how silly they may seem!). Everyone has a story to tell, and we’re willing to bet you’re more interesting than you think. Give yourself plenty of time to consider different topics and revise, revise, revise! Also, our handy dandy Supplemental Essay Guides are sure to help you on your writing journey.

North Park University 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

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How to Write Your College Essay: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

Getting ready to start your college essay? Your essay is very important to your application — especially if you’re applying to selective colleges.

Become a stronger writer by reviewing your peers’ essays and get your essay reviewed as well for free.

We have regular livestreams during which we walk you through how to write your college essay and review essays live.

College Essay Basics

Just getting started on college essays? This section will guide you through how you should think about your college essays before you start.

• Why do essays matter in the college application process?
• What is a college application theme and how do you come up with one?
• How to format and structure your college essay

Before you move to the next section, make sure you understand:

How a college essay fits into your application

What a strong essay does for your chances

How to create an application theme

Learn the Types of College Essays

Next, let’s make sure you understand the different types of college essays. You’ll most likely be writing a Common App or Coalition App essay, and you can also be asked to write supplemental essays for each school. Each essay has a prompt asking a specific question. Each of these prompts falls into one of a few different types. Understanding the types will help you better answer the prompt and structure your essay.

• How to Write a Personal Statement That Wows Colleges
• Personal Statement Essay Examples
• How to Write a Stellar Extracurricular Activity Essay
• Extracurricular Essay Examples
• Tips for Writing a Diversity College Essay
• Diversity Essay Examples
• Tips for Writing a Standout Community Service Essay
• How to Write the “Why This Major” Essay
• How to Write a “Why This Major” Essay if You’re Undecided
• How to write the “Why This College” Essay
• How to Research a College to Write the “Why This College” Essay
• Why This College Essay Examples
• How to Write The Overcoming Challenges Essay
• Overcoming Challenges Essay Examples

Identify how each prompt fits into an essay type

What each type of essay is really asking of you

How to write each essay effectively

The Common App essay

Almost every student will write a Common App essay, which is why it’s important you get this right.

• How to Write the Common App Essay
• Successful Common App Essay Examples
• 5 Awesome College Essay Topics + Sample Essays
• 11 Cliché College Essay Topics + How to Fix Them

How to choose which Common App prompts to answer

How to write a successful Common App essay

What to avoid to stand out to admissions officers

Supplemental Essay Guides

Many schools, especially competitive ones, will ask you to write one or more supplemental essays. This allows a school to learn more about you and how you might fit into their culture.

These essays are extremely important in standing out. We’ve written guides for all the top schools. Follow the link below to find your school and read last year’s essay guides to give you a sense of the essay prompts. We’ll update these in August when schools release their prompts.

See last year’s supplemental essay guides to get a sense of the prompts for your schools.

Essay brainstorming and composition

Now that you’re starting to write your essay, let’s dive into the writing process. Below you’ll find our top articles on the craft of writing an amazing college essay.

• Where to Begin? 3 Personal Essay Brainstorming Exercises
• Creating the First Draft of Your College Application Essay
• How to Get the Perfect Hook for Your College Essay
• What If I Don’t Have Anything Interesting To Write About In My College Essay?
• 8 Do’s and Don’t for Crafting Your College Essay
• Stuck on Your College Essay? 8 Tips for Overcoming Writer’s Block

Understand how to write a great hook for your essay

Complete the first drafts of your essay

Editing and polishing your essay

Have a first draft ready? See our top editing tips below. Also, you may want to submit your essay to our free Essay Peer Review to get quick feedback and join a community of other students working on their essays.

• 11 Tips for Proofreading and Editing Your College Essay
• Getting Help with Your College Essay
• 5 DIY Tips for Editing Your College Essay
• How Long Should Your College Essay Be?
• Essential Grammar Rules for Your College Apps
• College Essay Checklist: Are You Ready to Submit?

Proofread and edited your essay.

Had someone else look through your essay — we recommend submitting it for a peer review.

Make sure your essay meets all requirements — consider signing up for a free account to view our per-prompt checklists to help you understand when you’re really ready to submit.

Advanced College Essay Techniques

Let’s take it one step further and see how we can make your college essay really stand out! We recommend reading through these posts when you have a draft to work with.

• 10 Guidelines for Highly Readable College Essays
• How to Use Literary Devices to Enhance Your Essay
• How to Develop a Personalized Metaphor for Your College Applications

Bentley University Undergraduate College Application Essays

These Bentley University college application essays were written by students accepted at Bentley University. All of our sample college essays include the question prompt and the year written. Please use these sample admission essays responsibly.

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College Application Essays accepted by Bentley University

Onions anonymous, bentley university.

I watched my mother raise the hand that held the knife to wipe the tears falling down her cheek. “It’s just the onions,” she said, and then she continued chopping. Though I was only at the tender age of seven, I already knew better.

I am a hybrid...

Trail of Breadcrumbs Chandranata Rekso Sosrodjojo

My eyes were greeted by the luminous glow of fluorescent lights and sterile white walls of Rumah Sakit Bunda (Bunda Hospital). This was a stark contrast to the escalating chaos and barbarity in the dilapidated Indonesian streets. In due time, the...

Eclectic Appetite Anonymous

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Recent Questions about Bentley University

The Question and Answer section for Bentley University is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

So Many Supplemental Essays

Last year my 2024 graduate applied to 11 that had supplemental essays as part of of the application. She wrote more than 20 essays. Some were re-usable and only needed to be re-worked…but still, sometimes a similar topic is assigned at different schools and at one school it’s 150 words and at another it’s 300 or more so it’s like writing a whole new essay. It is SO MUCH work. Most schools that had supplementals only had one or two. But some schools she applied to had 4 or 5 supplements. I think this is crazy and wonder why schools do this.

As I start early to think about college options for my 2026 grad, I am hoping to help guide her to create a college list that takes into account the workload of all the supplements. One of her top choices has SEVEN (granted one of the 7 is just a short list but the other six require actual writing) and its a huge reach so very unlikely to get in…maybe it’s not even worth trying? But I hope she does.

Why do colleges do this? They can get a good sense of a candidate through a couple of essays…why so many? I would actually love to hear from an AO as to what the thinking is around assigning so many.

In my non-AO opinion, I think well written supplements can help with yield prediction and it also helps pare down applications to kids who really want those schools.

It’s also why I cringe when I see kids with 20+ schools on their list. My D applied to 8 and had to write 18 unique essays. It’s a ton of work!

I agree it can be a way to cut down on the number of apps (some schools have stopped requiring a supplemental essay and their app numbers increased.) It’s also a way to differentiate between applicants…meaning it can be clear who didn’t take the time to create good supplemental responses.

With that said, some schools take responses to supplemental materials in context, for example, students from under-resourced HSs aren’t expected to necessarily have top notch essays and/or short answer responses.

I get that. And I’m not entirely opposed to supplemental essays. I just can’t understand why a school would require 4,5, 6 or 7(!) supplements. Wonder which school requires the most?

BTW - I also agree that some schools use “no supplement” as a way to bump up applications and resulting selectivity. Ahem…Northeastern.

It is crazy! Even if they are just short answer responses, it’s time consuming and requires some thought and/or research.

Good question, not sure!! USC Dornsife requires 3 essays and 12 short answer responses (3 of the 12 are just one word.) Georgetown has 4 essays. I think the UC PIQs are tough, as are the U Chicago essays (2 supplementals.)

Columbia has five ranging from 100-150 words. The school at Cornell that S25 is applying to has one, but it’s a LONG one plus there is another one for all Cornell applicants. I’m not sure which is worse - a bunch of short responses or one that feels like you are writing a class paper.

Agree with all the above. Was discussing applications with a friend and she told me a broad list of which/how many schools (Ivy’s, T20, UCs, etc) to which her D25 was considering applying. My first comment was, has she looked at how many supplementals she will need to write for those schools? She looked at me with a blank stare as she obviously had no idea.

If the supplementals cut down on the number of “no chance in %^&” applications it’s a good thing for everyone.

Not that I love this logic, but more essays, particularly more essays that are not of the sort easily satisfied with rewritten essays, presumably help determine even higher levels of real interest.

Yea, I mean you’re right but…ugh.

Since the Common App, the number of schools kids apply to has gone up to so many schools. Some even apply to 20.

Essay readers here on CC can attest to the fact that once working with a kid on an essay, we may end up helping with upwards of 10-15 essays in some instances.

One solution is to apply to fewer schools. Back in the day my kids only applied to schools they actually visited. Quaint! (We were frugal and only drove…) My kids applied to 2, 4 and 6 schools respectively and the 6 only because it included conservatories and colleges. Fifteen years or so ago. Two of them did essays on December 31. Now they start in the summer or even earlier. So much anxiety.

Another solution is to stop making such a big deal about those short answers. Honestly applicants are trying to make “unique” essays about of a simple question like “Why X College.” They research and mention classes and professors and it is just so time consuming.

In fact with my kids, if they were applying now, I would deemphasize essays in general - partly because I don’t believe most essays move the needle and partly to reduce stress.

I wish colleges would get rid of the question about overcoming challenges. Kids actually feel they are failing the essay if they haven’t suffered enough. I had one kid writing about being in a Kenyan refugee camp and one kid writing about the challenge of losing a soccer game. I am digressing…

It certainly seems that asking for numerous essays is a way of winnowing out non-serious applicants to protect yield. I still think actually visiting is a better way to show interest (and urge students to mention visits in their “Why us” essays). I believe colleges keep track.

This is because that’s what the schools tend to want and students know this from in person/virtual visits. At the school where I read apps the supplementals are important and >>>>> the common app personal statement.

Generally these essays are truly optional.

Depends on how the student covers this. Don’t talk about the beautiful campus, or gothic architecture, for example.

Separately, and IMO of course, it’s really difficult for people who aren’t current on college admissions, meaning listening/talking to admissions staff webinars/presentations and the like to give good advice on essay content. Note I am not talking about structuring essays or editing grammar. I do agree that at many schools (tend to be less selective schools that don’t even have supplementals), the common app personal statement is not that important.

Not to go off on a tangent but some of the “Why us” essays lack authenticity in my view. I would rather see something about class size, undergrad focus, outdoor or cultural activities nearby rather than how they want to work with Prof. so and so on such and such. So many do the latter and it just must seem tiresome. How refreshing it would be to read something from someone who visited and shared their impressions. Young people tend to make gut decisions. We can agree to disagree! @Mwfan1921 clearly you have a lot more experience and contacts.

I think people who get info on ultimate results from essay writers can have some idea of what works. Authenticity, likability and of course interesting.

We attended an admissions session at an elite school with several supplementals. They were clear that they prioritize their supplementals and that they read the Common App essay last, if they read it at all.

Why supplementals? While loads of applications bring down their acceptance rate, the AO really need to know if their university is a priority to the applicant. If accepted, will the student attend? Asking university specific questions lets them know how much the student knows about the institution and allows them to assess if the student will be a good fit.

My daughter is currently a senior applying to schools. She already fired off an application to Northeastern b/c “why not? there are no supplementals”.

She came up with a list of safety schools and eliminated all with supplemental essays. Has sent applications her 2 “no extra essay” safeties.

Currently working on supplementals for most of the remaining schools on her list…

Any of these can work! It’s important to give admissions what they want though…as communicated in live/virtual admissions sessions, or even a personal conversation with one’s AO. Obviously that does take time, but it allows the schools to gauge fit like @lkg4answers said, and also helps the student know if the school is a fit too (which many students just don’t care about, they only want schools with a low acceptance rate.)

Totally agree.

Thats a good strategy IMO. One thing my daughter did to reduce her essay workload…she chose not to write the supplemental essay at two schools that SHE considered safeties.

(I considered one of them a high safety and the other a low target)

She was admitted to the high safety without even writing the supplemental essay. She was deferred at the low target. (And then withdrew that app after being admitted to her top choice).

Definitely some risk in foregoing the supplement…but if a school is truly a safety it may still work out.

The supplementals are a pretty useless anachronism IMO. By now the schools should be aware that many are written by advisors or AI anyway. For example, the general consensus is that the “why us” essay should somehow regurgitate stuff from the school’s vision…how is that useful to anyone? The schools tell you to “just be yourself” in your essays but you know that if you don’t tell them things they like to hear you could be disadvantaged…it is a strange system

Instead of supplemental essays, northeastern uses campus visits and such to gauge applicant interest.

I don’t believe that’s true based on my experiences. Do you have a citation?

Big picture, the essays will never be as important as grades, rigor, and test scores (school dependent wrt test scores.)

Essay Guides and Essay Examples

Your best college essay: tips for writing a college essay that helps you stand out.

Your college essays are a key chance to set yourself apart in the college admissions process. A strong college essay will showcase all of your unique qualities that will help you succeed on a college campus. Avoid the fatal mistake of leaving your college essays until the last minute. Instead, reserve enough time to craft a college admission essay beyond compare.

Keep in mind that the average acceptance rate for college applicants is 68% , but the rate for your dream school may be even lower. For example, many of the best colleges in the U.S. , including Ivy League universities, have single-digit acceptance rates. Admissions departments across the U.S. received well over a million Common App applications for the 2022-2023 school year. Many schools are growing more competitive every year, so it’s more important than ever to stand out.

Your personal essay and supplemental essays can easily get lost in the wave of other applicants. In truth, only the best college essays will rise to the top, so it is important to make sure yours is among them.

CollegeAdvisor’s resources will guide you through the entire process, including key information on:

Selecting college essay topics.

• College essay ideas
• Types of college essay prompts
• How to write a great college essay

College essay format

• How to start a great college essay
• How to start a ‘why this college’ essay
• How to end college essays

Writing about yourself isn’t easy, but you can also find more great tips on how to write a college essay for individual schools at CollegeAdvisor.com. As you begin, keep in mind that knowing how to write a college essay is the mark of a great candidate. 

Short Essay Examples Writing essays can be one of the most daunting aspects of applying to college. From the personal statement to the extracurricular list to short answer essay questions, […]

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To write a standout college essay, you will have to be creative and original. This means you should avoid the overused typical college essay ideas, such as:

• A historical figure you admire
• Your favorite place to visit
• How you saved the day by making a winning sports play

These and other similar college essay topics are too common, so they won’t help you stand out . Even if you have to use a prompt that looks like this, try to attack it in an unexpected way. You don’t want your college essay to be just one of many cliché college essays that don’t inspire your reader.

Other potentially ineffective college essay ideas to avoid in a college admission essay are those that provide too much personal detail. For example, if you want to write about a serious accident and how you overcame your injuries, avoid taking a deep dive into the medical procedures and details about the accident itself. That is not how to start a college essay. In fact, you could end up putting off members of the admissions committee rather than intriguing them. Instead, a good college essay idea would focus on how you turned a challenge into an opportunity. 

Avoid poetry and fiction

Also, don’t turn in a long poem or a piece of fiction in lieu of a college essay. This advice applies to supplemental essays as well. Although your creative prose might reveal aspects of your spirit and personality, creative writing is a college essay format that admissions teams don’t always appreciate. Your college essay should teach your readers more about you —not your poetry chops. 

That said, creativity is still important in college essays. Your college essay should highlight your ability to illustrate points with strong imagery. The best college essays will use vivid imagery, strong language, and a well-structured form to highlight key parts of the writer’s identity. 

Additionally, boasting about your personal achievements in college essays often does not present your character in the best light. This doesn’t mean you can’t highlight your accomplishments in your college essays. However, if you want to describe an accomplishment, add context. Don’t use language that is too self-congratulatory or prideful. Of course, you can be proud of your achievements. But, the best college admission essay is one that exudes confidence, not arrogance.

College essays are no joke

The best college essays also do not solely rely on humor or jokes to engage an audience. Humor is quite subjective, so what tickles your funny bone may not have the same effect on others. Try not to overuse humor in your college admission essay. 

Instead, take a tip from college essays that worked. Use unique descriptions and insights that help your readers understand who you are. If that includes humor, feel free to add in a few clever jokes throughout your college admission essay. However, don’t use them to distract from the actual content of the essay itself. 

In addition, resist the urge to write a college essay that reads like a travelog. Describing the weather in the South of France does not reveal much about who you are and why a college should accept you. Your college essays need to be about you! 

At times, you might be asked to write a college essay about someone else. These essays might seem deceptive, but at their core, they should still center around you. Think about someone you know or a historical figure you admire. How do their experiences and values relate to your life? What about them engages you, and how does that speak to your identity? 

Stay positive

When writing a college essay, you should also avoid making negative observations about the school you’re applying to (or even other colleges). Admissions officers want their students to have a  positive outlook. So, avoid negativity and criticism in your college essays.

One way to accomplish this is to select college essay topics you care about. Choose a theme that reveals your passion and positivity. Get started with some brainstorming strategies to help you identify a few great college essay ideas. 

Additionally, take advantage of CollegeAdvisor.com’s library of webinars to help you create an application that showcases your personal narrative. Your college admission essay should work in conjunction with your extracurricular and academic interests to show who you are as a whole person. So, as you write your college essays, keep your application narrative in mind. 

After brainstorming

Once you’ve identified some viable college essay topics, see how they compare to some popular topics for college essays that worked, including :

• A college essay on the valuable lessons you learned from a setback or failure
• A college essay reviewing how anc accomplishment inspired your growth
• An essay topic about the ways in which gratitude has broadened your horizons
• A unique college essay about how your favorite hobby adds dimension to your academic interests
• A college essay detailing how one experience impacted your life and goals for the future

These structures give you room to tell a story about who you are and how you’ve grown. However, if you’re not careful, these topics can become cliché. So, if you opt to write your college essay on a common topic, make sure it has your own personal spin. 

Most importantly, use your own voice and be sincere in any college essay you write. Admissions committees do not want to read the same college essay topics over and over. Instead, they want to see college essays and supplemental essays with fresh voices and thought-provoking. 

College essays that worked are insightful, authentic, unique, and personal. So, as you draft your college essay, keep these qualities in mind. 

Different kinds of College Essay prompts

The personal statement .

Typically, the longest essay you will write in the college application process is your primary College Essay or Personal Statement. This essay will be based on college essay prompts set forth by the Common App and Coalition App.  These college essay prompts typically include an array of predetermined topics as well as an option to write on a subject of your choice. You can find the college essay prompts on each application website. 

The Common App and Coalition App typically release their college essay prompts in the summer before application season begins. That way, they’re available several months before your college applications are due. This gives you ample time to research college essays that worked and develop your own strategy for getting started on a college essay.

The Common App publishes its college essay prompts online each year. The Coalition App college essay prompts are also available online. Additionally, if you are planning to submit your college applications through QuestBridge , you can find the college essay prompts on its website. QuestBridge also offers valuable hints on how to write a great college essay.

School-specific essays

You will also likely be required to write school-specific essays as part of your college application process. These school specific essays, also called supplemental essays, are different from your primary college essay or personal statement. However, supplemental essays are just as important, if not more so, to admissions officers. 

Supplemental essays differ between schools and application systems. So, do your research on which college essays you will need to write well before your college application deadlines.

More on supplemental essays

Each university creates its own supplemental part of the college application. Most schools require you to write supplemental essays specific to them. These are a school’s way to assess how you would fit into their specific school community. They also give you the chance to show each school why you are a good fit!

Some schools ask applicants to write more than one supplemental essay. Some supplemental essays consist of several short questions and one longer supplemental essay. The typical college essay length for a long answer is similar to that of your regular college essay, around 400-650 words.

College essay length requirements for short answer questions are likely to be around 150-200 words. Before you start writing, research  the colleges you are applying to. First, find out the type, number, and college essay length of the supplemental essays they ask for. Then, take your time to learn more about each school and its values—this can help you write an essay sure to stand out. 

Supplemental essay example

For example, if you apply to New York University , the supplemental essay is school-specific. NYU wants its applicants to answer the question “Why NYU?” in a 400-word essay. Specifically, the NYU supplemental essay prompt for 2021-2022 was worded as such:

We would like to know more about your interest in NYU. What motivated you to apply to NYU? Why have you applied or expressed interest in a particular campus, school, college, program, and or area of study? If you have applied to more than one, please also tell us why you are interested in these additional areas of study or campuses. We want to understand – Why NYU? 

For a college essay prompt like this, you’ll want to start by researching NYU. Then, choose one or two things about NYU that intrigue you. Don’t be too general, and don’t just talk about going to school in New York—instead, show why you would thrive at NYU specifically, and highlight what you would bring to their campus. 

You can get more tips on writing a great supplemental essay at CollegeAdvisor.com. We’ve curated supplemental essay guides for all of the top 100 colleges.

Short answer essays 

Others, like University of Southern California , ask for a series of short response questions alongside their supplemental essays. Short responses questions tend to be around 100-150 characters, but they vary based on school. 

As you write your supplemental essays and short response answers, keep the required college essay length in mind. Also, remember that shorter essays aren’t always easier. Give yourself plenty of time to write a standout 150-word essay; don’t leave it until the last minute. 

“Optional” supplemental essays

In addition to any required college essay prompts, some schools list their supplemental essays as optional. However, if you are applying to a top-tier school, it’s a good idea to answer all prompts, optional or not. Instead of seeing these optional essays as added work, think of them as an invaluable opportunity to share more about yourself.

That said, there are certain cases where you should skip the optional supplemental essay. For example, if the supplemental essay asks you to expand on any extenuating circumstances that impacted your application, and you don’t have any, don’t make something up. These supplemental essays are designed for students to explain an extremely low grade in a class or a personal event that affected their academic performance. In some cases, this will not apply to you. So, don’t feel pressure to answer those types of supplemental essay questions. 

Schools with no supplemental essays

You may also find during your college application process that some universities do not require any supplemental essays. 

State universities like the University of Colorado-Denver and the University of Pittsburg do not ask for supplemental essays. Nor do some liberal arts schools like Lawrence University , Colby College , and Middlebury College . Take these schools’ policies as another incentive to make your personal statement shine. 

How to Write a Great College Essay

Test scores, your GPA, and the list of extracurricular activities you’re involved in provide admissions committees with a sketch of your accomplishments. Your college essay is your opportunity to fill in the rest of the story . 

If your test scores are good but not exceptional, your college essay can convey how exceptional you really are. If your GPA is less than flawless, a great college essay can help strengthen your application.

However, there is no shortcut to writing a college essay that stands out. You will need to spend time brainstorming, drafting, and editing your college essay. College essays that worked for past applicants were not written in a day, or even a week. It can take a few months to write a college admission essay that you’re proud of. 

Check out these hints to write the best college essays possible:

• Choose college essay prompts that fit: The college essay prompts you choose should provide an opening for the topics/stories you have decided to discuss.
• Know your parameters: Before you begin, make sure you are clear on the required college essay length and college essay format.
• Create an outline : Organization is critical to writing a college essay that shines, so structure your ideas into a formal outline to guide you as you write. This will also help you get started on a college essay if you’re feeling stumped.
• Start out strong: Come up with a “hook” in the first few sentences of your college essay that grabs your readers and reels them in. For example, “On New Year’s Day 2020, my life changed forever.”
• Write a rough draft: Do not plan on writing a college essay in a couple of hours. Treat your first effort as a draft that you will reread and revise until it is perfect.
• Follow your outline: Keep your essay prompts and college essay ideas firmly in mind as you write your first draft; you can revise it later to make it one of the best college essays possible.
• Do not go over the college essay length for any of your college essays: Pay attention to college essay length requirements, especially with supplemental essays. Also, do not deviate from standard college essay format. Doing so indicates that you cannot follow instructions.
• Use proper grammar and accurate spelling: Resist the urge to use slang or texting abbreviations in any college essays.
• Observe the rules of best college essays: Breaking college essay format rules or deviating from the college essay prompts will not earn you any points. Be prepared to showcase your excellence as a writer—within your given parameters. 

It’s also a good idea to review the websites of your colleges of choice to see whether they offer guidelines on how to write a strong supplemental essay. In addition, research guides on how to write a great college essay from other resources .

You should also follow the college essay format mentioned in your college essay guidelines , if there is one. If the application does not specify a college essay format, use the standard MLA guidelines for how to write a college essay.

While some colleges may not place any importance on format, most schools expect college essays to meet strict academic standards. So, do not rely on your memory for correct grammar, spelling, and vocabulary definitions. When in doubt, look it up.

How to Start a College Essay

Choosing your college essay prompts and structuring an outline for your college essay format is a great beginning. Now, you’ll probably wonder, how do you start a college essay?

The best method for getting started on a college essay is creating a thesis statement . This is a single-sentence response to the college essay prompts you choose to tackle. It states your topic and the main point of your college essay.

A strong thesis statement forms the foundation of the best college essays. It should be clear and concise. The following paragraphs of your college essay should then provide supportive examples and/or evidence to prove your thesis.

Let’s take a look at the Johns Hopkins “Essays that Worked” page for some examples. For college essay prompts like, “ Describe an obstacle or challenge that you struggled to overcome ,” your thesis statement should be clear and compelling. Your thesis could be, “When I transferred to a new bigger high school and joined the squash team, I discovered how rewarding it is to push myself outside of my comfort zone.” 

When you’re getting started on a college essay like this , start with a bit of context. Then, make sure each paragraph directly relates to the thesis statement and reveals something crucial about you . For example, you might describe a distinct strategy or action that pushed you out of your comfort zone. Was it the fast pace of the sport, or maybe the shyness you felt meeting new people? You might also highlight a specific moment when you overcame insecurities and conquered new challenges. However, don’t try to tackle all of these questions at once; instead, choose one story, and stay focused on your narrative and its relevance to your life. 

Finally, make sure that your essay reflects something crucial about who you are. Don’t just tell an interesting story—instead, explicitly connect this story to your identity and growth. To return to the squash team example, your essay might show how you persevere in the face of difficulty and that you are not afraid to learn from new experiences. 

What about the ending?

So, once you’re this far, you’ll begin wondering how to end a college essay. In most cases, the final paragraph of the best college essays will return to your thesis. Then, it will offer a conclusion that puts the entire experience into context.

In our example about joining the squash team at your new high school, your college essay might conclude with, “The experience showed me that the more I push myself outside of my comfort zone, the more my comfort zone grows.” This sentence shows the reader the relevance of your essay beyond its topic—that is, it shows how your experience helped you grow not just as a squash player, but as a person. 

The above example shows how to end a college essay on a positive note. It will leave your readers feeling good about your experience, just like you did. It also gives you room to talk about how you will apply your new faculties in college. That’s the best strategy when it comes to how to end a college essay.

Key Components of the Best College Essays

Many colleges, including Harvard and the University of California , no longer require you to submit SAT or ACT test scores. In the absence of these scores, an even greater emphasis falls upon your supplemental essays.

That means to get into top schools, you must focus on creating one of the best college essays in response to the college essay prompts. Your college essay provides much-needed insight into both your academic talent and your character.

Before you submit your college admission, check your college essay against the following tenets of how to write a college essay. 

Does your college essay do all of these things?

• Communicate your unique character: What you reveal about yourself in your college essays both answers and expands upon the college essay topics.
• Write with an authentic voice: Your college essays should sound like you, so unless you frequently use complex language or long words, avoid them in both your college essay and supplemental essays.
• Don’t be too broad: College essays should cover a single concept in depth rather than skimming through several concepts. For example, instead of talking a little about each of the jobs you’ve had in your life, focus on one key experience. Anywhere from 1-3 examples is a good amount to aim for in each of your college essays. 
• Provide evocative details: The best college essays draw readers in with interesting and enriching details. Remember to show, don’t tell, when writing a college essay.
• Use specific language/imagery: Put your readers in the scene with adjectives and images that help them see, smell, touch, taste, hear or otherwise feel the event or emotions you describe. That is a common trait of college essays that worked. 
• Tell a story with a beginning, a middle and an end: The best college essays don’t skip around in a confusing manner. Instead, strong college essays simply relay events as they actually happened.
• Contain excellent grammar and spelling : The best college essays are virtually flawless in terms of mechanics. You don’t want to distract from your college admission essay with something as small as a misspelled word. 
• Stay within the college essay format parameters: Show respect for the standard college essay format. Edit until your college essay falls within the stated word limit for college essays. If your essay is too long, you may be denied admission for not following the required college essay length. 

How to Write a College Essay About Yourself

No matter which of the college essay prompts you choose, the story, observations, and reflections should ultimately reveal more about yourself than your test scores and extracurricular activities do. Your college essay is the place to let your personality shine. 

Remember, you are pitching yourself as an excellent fit for a particular university. So, your college essays should present you in the best possible light.

However, you may have never written a personal essay before. So, you’re stuck wondering how to write a college essay about yourself. The trick to writing about yourself is avoiding some of the common pitfalls of autobiography. Avoid describing yourself in such a way that garners sympathy rather than admiration. Try not to sound too negative or bad-tempered. 

For example, instead of indulging in self-pity, describe how a specific challenge has made you stronger. That’s the best approach to the question of how to write a college essay about yourself. Focus on your reactions, your growth, and your takeaways. Communicate how you’ve transformed a negative experience into a positive opportunity for learning and growth.

As you brainstorm college essay ideas and wonder how to start a college essay, remember that you are not the only hero in your story. Your college essay can also mention those who helped you with an important accomplishment. Describing your relationships with others is also a good way to write about yourself. In fact, it illustrates your humility and gratitude, two admirable character traits. However, at the end of the day, stay focused on yourself. 

When thinking about how to write a college essay about yourself, at all costs, be truthful. There’s no need to exaggerate your victories. That’s one of the top takeaways from how to write a college essay. Tell the truth, and be yourself.

In addition, use descriptions that support your thesis statement. If you want your readers to understand your empathy for others, describe a situation that illustrates this rather than just saying so. Relay an anecdote about a time you helped someone without an ulterior motive.

Finally, explain how a story, experience, or accomplishment changed you or broadened your outlook. Don’t just state it; show it .

Find the college essay topic that works for you

Some college essay topics are more personal than others. Some college essay prompts inspire intensely personal reactions. The trick to choosing the right college essay prompts is to find one that allows you to reveal your character without getting overly personal .

The college essay topics you choose should reveal something about who you are and why you will be an asset to a college. If you feel that the best college essay topics are particularly sensitive ones, the best approach is honesty. Focus on the positives , and show how your trials have made you stronger. 

You do not have to give details that might be off-putting to your readers. Try to use each of the college essay topics as a window into your character and the kind of adult you want to become.

How to Start a “Why This College” Essay

You will likely come across college essay prompts asking , “Why this college?” One or more of your supplemental essays will likely be a version of this question. We frequently refer to these essays as “Why School” essays, and they are some of the most common college essay prompts you will encounter.

What is the admissions team trying to find out from these types of college essay prompts? It could be several things:

• How much do you know about a college you are applying to?
• Are you serious about attending if you get accepted?
• Do you have a realistic view of the school’s academics and campus life?
• Will you be a good fit for this particular college?

You should always do your homework before answering these college essay prompts. Research the course offerings, the faculty, the location, dorm life, and study abroad programs. All of these details will be helpful when you’re wondering how to start a “why this college” essay. 

Also, read student reviews to get a perspective from the inside. Then, come up with a definitive and specific answer to each of the “why school” essay prompts that you must answer.

Schedule a campus visit

Before you start a “why this college” essay, visit the campus in person, if possible. Not only will it help you come up with college essay ideas, but also, visiting a school is one of the best ways to show your interest in attending.

Many college admissions officers throughout the U.S. place value on your demonstrated interest (DI) in the college when considering your application. In fact, 16% of colleges consider your DI to have considerable importance.

Rather than just walking around the school campus, try to make an appointment in advance to speak with someone from admissions. When you show up in person, on time and eager, your admissions counselor will be able to connect your application and college essays to a familiar face.

Take a guided tour with a current student. Eat in the cafeteria. Attend a weekend event. Then, you can speak with authority in your college essay when you describe what draws you to the school.

Focus on the school in your college essays

Even though you’re applying to more than one university, you don’t need to mention that in your “why this college” essay. Instead, stay focused on each individual school as you write your school-specific college essays. 

Furthermore, when writing a college essay, put yourself in the role of a student at the school in question. What features do you love? What activities will you join? How would you, personally, embody the mission of the university?

Things to avoid

One thing to avoid in a “why school” essay is mentioning the school’s national rankings. Such statistics are not in themselves a reason to attend. Instead, write about how the school’s philosophy and academic approach align with your own.

Additionally, admissions officers already know about the school’s history, founders, reputation, and graduation rate. Your essay should offer information they don’t know, such as why you chose to apply or how that specific college would nurture your academic growth.

Use the two-part answer strategy

Having trouble deciding how to start a “why this college” essay? As you approach these college essay prompts, think of your essay as a two-part answer. First, describe the intellectual appeal of the college and the ways it speaks to your interests. Second, your “why school” essay should also mention how you will give back as a student.

For example, maybe you want to start a club for other West African students like yourself. Or, maybe you want to work with kids in the school’s inner-city community outreach programs. Colleges will be impressed that you already know how you’d contribute to their campus. 

Examples of College Essays That Worked

Part of the research you do as you begin planning your college essay should be reading college essays that worked. These college essay resources and examples of college essays can offer more expert insight. 

Since supplemental essay prompts are college-specific, use the essays-by-school resource from CollegeAdvisor.com. For example, if you want to apply to the University of Pennsylvania , find out all you can from people who have successfully gained admission to UPenn. Read actual examples of UPenn college essays that worked on our website.

Do your research on each supplemental essay requirement—UPenn asks for two supplemental essays. Along with actual essay prompts, find resources that provide example college essays that worked. These college essay resource pages also offer quick tips for how to write a college essay about yourself.

Our library of resources also includes advice from former admissions officers. This can give you even more insight into how to approach different college essay prompts. With help from our team of experts, you’ll find out what essay topics are most impressive to admissions officers and some tips on past college essays that worked.

At CollegeAdvisor.com, you can read actual examples of college essays that worked. They illustrate what admissions teams look for in a successful supplemental essay. You can also find out how to write a college essay about yourself that is effective.

Final thoughts on College Essays

Generally speaking, the more selective the university, the more important it is to submit stellar college essays. For example, schools like Harvard typically accept less than   5% of those students who apply.

Most of the applicants to selective schools have the best academic records, scores, and teacher recommendations. So, college essays can make a huge difference. 

Think of your college essay, then, as a chance to further your quest for college acceptance. Make the most of it. Find solid resources on how to write a college essay. Then, produce well-planned, well-written college essays that show your readers who you are.

In a 2019 survey of college admissions departments nationwide, respondents ranked the college essay fifth in importance among admissions materials.

First on the list was the student’s high school GPA. Second was the average grade earned in college prep courses, and third was the academic reputation of the student’s high school. Fourth on the level of importance was SAT/ACT scores, and then the essay. However, now that so many schools are test-optional, college essays have become even more important.

Even at larger schools like the University of Minnesota , which accepts about half of those who apply, your college essay carries weight.

Within a large pool of candidates, it’s more important than ever to stand out. Excellent college essays will attract the eye of discerning readers. So, learning how to write a college essay is well worth your time.

A second pair of eyes can make a huge difference on your college essays. However, choose your readers and editors carefully. Choose who to ask how to write a college essay—not everyone can provide the right kind of support. You might ask a teacher, advisor, or family member for a second opinion. 

Finally, focus on what you can control. Nobody can predict if certain college essay prompts will be more of a hit with a particular admissions office. It’s impossible to know beforehand how to write a college essay that will click with all your readers. So, strive to write a college essay that best represents you. 

Rely on what you know about each college and how that intersects with your personality, interests and academic goals. Once you’ve figured that out, you should have a good idea how to write a great college essay.

Beyond the College Essays: College Interviews

Although many universities have made applying easier by eliminating standardized tests and financial aid steps, some colleges still consider applicant interviews to be an important part of the admissions process.

It’s a good idea to do your research or touch base with the admissions office before you visit a college. Then, you’ll know whether you can schedule an interview during your visit.

Larger schools send out admissions representatives to various cities or lean on a network of alumni to conduct interviews on their behalf. If your chosen college is among these schools, you can usually schedule interviews during their visits.

Typically, a college interview does not carry as much weight for getting into a school as your GPA or college essay. This is especially true if interviews are optional.

If a college does mandatory interviews , though, they will have some bearing on your acceptance. Prepare in advance and dress to impress, and you will make a positive impression at your interview.

Just like the prep for a college essay, preparing for a college interview involves some research about each specific college. As you gather information, start making a list that includes specific reasons why you want to attend. It’s sure to be one of your interview topics!

Also, as questions arise during your research, take notes. Some of the answers you can find with a quick search of the college website or on CollegeAdvisor.com . If you cannot find an answer to one of your questions, jot it down so you have something to ask at your interview.

Other popular interview questions you may encounter include:

• What should I know about you that I won’t find out from your application?
• What do you enjoy doing outside of school?
• Tell me about a mistake you made that became a positive learning experience.

Keep in mind during your interview that how you answer questions is just as important as the answer itself. Try to relax and be yourself. Getting to know you is your interviewer’s primary interest. Think of your interview as a conversation, and try not to stress. 

It’s also a good idea to:

• Know the interviewer’s name and how to say it.
• Smile often, and offer to shake the interviewer’s hand when you first meet.
• Be prepared to begin with rapport-building small talk.
• Practice good grammar when you speak.
• Listen carefully and take time to think as needed.
• Close the interview with a positive comment.
• Afterward, send the interviewer a thank you note.

Write down your impressions once you’ve completed your interview. Some of the topics you discussed or information you learned could become great college essay ideas. Also, if the colleges on your shortlist do not conduct pre-application interviews, that places more importance on your college essays and supplemental essays. Make sure your personality shines through especially as you compose your “why this college” essay.

Beyond the College Essays: Recommendation Letters

In many ways, the letters of recommendation from your teachers are similar to your college essays. They should tell the truth, talk about your character, be interesting, and be concise. However, you typically don’t have a lot of control over what is said in your recommendation letters. So, you should take care with the aspect you can control: who you choose to write the letter.

You should choose a teacher who knows you well and taught you recently. Ideally, this would be a junior year teacher. Teachers who had you freshman year are not the best choice, as you haven’t been in their classroom for three years. A sophomore year teacher is okay for one of your letters, but try not to have two sophomore teachers writing your recommendation letters. 

Although your teachers will likely submit their recommendations directly to the college admissions office, be sure to ask them to send you a copy too. Most of your teachers will probably agree.

However, if you sign a waiver in your application that waives your right to review your application file, you can’t legally access official copies of your recommendations. Many schools ask you to sign these waivers, so don’t expect to be able to view your recommendations. 

You should be sure to ask teachers for recommendations early. That gives them plenty of time to write a great letter that sings your praises.

However, since truthfulness is a hallmark of a strong recommendation letter, you should ask faculty members that know you well. You don’t want a letter that provides only vague information and faint praise. Ask those teachers with whom you have built rapport over your years in high school. They’ll be familiar not only with your GPA but also your personal character.

Sometimes it takes advance planning to build rapport with your teachers, but it is rewarding in many ways. Often, a coach you have played sports for and also taken classes from is a great choice.

CollegeAdvisor can help

We offer extensive resources at CollegeAdvisor.com for students at every stage of the college admissions process. We add new information about college admissions and college essays constantly, including exclusive webinars with former admissions officers.

Use CollegeAdvisor to research universities like Princeton . Narrow down your choices based on reliable information, and learn how to optimize your chances of admission.

When you join CollegeAdvisor, you’ll have access to our best tips about college admissions from students, former students, and former admissions officers at top universities. You’ll get expert advice on writing college essays that work from students who are attending their dream schools.

We have more than 400 Admissions Experts and former Admissions Officers available to meet with you, discuss your needs, and provide support. To date, we have helped students from the U.S. and 60 countries worldwide gain admission to Ivy League and Top 50 colleges across the nation. 

Applying to college is hard—you shouldn’t have to do it alone. Get started with CollegeAdvisor today.

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Supplemental Essay Prompts

Freshman admissions.

The Management, Entrepreneurship, & Technology (M.E.T.) program seeks inquisitive, self-motivated students with a passion for finding and solving big problems.

The following essay question is designed to provoke honest, thoughtful responses to help us get to know you. It gives you the opportunity to provide unique information about yourself, your interests, and your reasons for applying to the program. In addition to content, essays are evaluated for writing and critical thinking ability, skill in organizing and presenting thoughts, and the relevance of your answer to the question posed. Your response is limited to 350 words.

Required Essay: (350 words maximum)

Your supplemental essays must be submitted by 11:59 pm PST on December 15, 2023 .

Describe how the Management, Entrepreneurship, & Technology Program in Engineering and Business at UC Berkeley will help you to achieve your goals. Share with us the world you come from (for example, your family, school, community, city, or town). What unique experiences from your world motivated you to apply to our program?

Video Essay Invitation

Some applicants may receive a request to record a video essay. Video essay requests are by invitation only and will be requested starting in November. Videos must be submitted by 11:59 pm PST on January 12, 2024 . Check your email for an invitation and if requested, be sure to submit your video essay by the deadline.

The questions are:

• How have you contributed to and bolstered the communities you are a part of? (Communities can = school, extracurriculars, family, etc.)
• How will your admittance into the program catapult your educational journey or complement your career plans?
• What has been your biggest failure and how did you respond?

Continuing Student Admissions

The following essay questions were created to provoke honest, thoughtful responses to help us get to know you. They’re framed within the context of The Haas School of Business’s four Defining Leadership Principles and the College of Engineering’s mission and vision, and give you the opportunity to provide unique information about yourself and your interests. These essays are the principal means we have of gaining insight about you and your reasons for applying to the Berkeley M.E.T. Program. In addition to content, essays are evaluated for critical thinking and writing ability, skill in organizing and presenting thoughts, and the relevance of your answers to the questions posed.

All applicants are required to answer question A and to choose either topic B or C. The Admission Committee does not have a preference for either question B or C. They’re given equal weight in the review process. Essay D is optional.

Required Essay A: (500 words maximum) Describe your post-undergraduate goals. Why is the Berkeley M.E.T. Program essential in helping you achieve these goals?

Tip: We understand that both Haas and the College of Engineering (COE) have world-renowned reputations and faculty, strong alumni networks, and that majors have priority access to business and COE courses. Aside from these factors, why do you feel that studying both COE and Business is a necessary step in pursuit of your immediate post-undergraduate goals? You’re not required to include a detailed post-undergraduate plan, but you should address how the program will help you achieve your goals broadly.

Choose either Essay B or C: (500 words maximum)

Essay B: Describe a time when something important to you did not work out as planned. How did you respond, and what did you learn from the situation?

Tip : If you applied to M.E.T. as a freshman, this is an opportunity for you to share with us what has been enhanced since then.

Essay C: If admitted to Berkeley M.E.T., how would you help develop a sense of belonging for classmates from diverse communities? What challenges do you anticipate, and how will you respond to them?

Optional Essay D: (250 words maximum) Is there any other information you would like to share that is not presented elsewhere in the application?

Tip: Use this essay to explain academic issues, grade disputes or personal/family/medical circumstances you want the admission committee to be aware of. Currently, there are unique circumstances impacting applicants to Berkeley M.E.T. You may also use this essay to discuss how you’ve been impacted by matters such as the pandemic, social unrest, and/or natural disasters.

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Bentley has been building cars by hand for more than a century. Today, they include the stunning Bentayga Extended Wheelbase – an SUV that offers an unrivalled passenger experience – and the Bentayga, which combines go-anywhere capability with handcrafted luxury. The Flying Spur is among the most sought-after executive sedans in the world, while the Continental GT and the convertible Continental GTC offer the ultimate grand touring experience.

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Test optional frequently asked questions and answers.

Bentley will evaluate your application for admission without regard to either SAT or ACT scores for both admission, scholarships, and the Honors Program. However, you do have the option to submit test scores.

On the Bentley University supplement to the Common Application, select either:

• Yes, I would like my test scores to be reviewed
• No, I choose for my test scores to not be considered as a part of my application

If you select "no," your application for admission will be reviewed without considering scores, regardless of whether we have already received them or they are listed on the Common Application or your high school transcript. 

In our test optional year, the primary academic focus will be on your secondary school curriculum and grades. Our holistic review of your application includes learning about you through your essay, teacher/guidance counselor recommendations, your extracurricular activities and other commitments. With respect to academics, we want to see how you challenged yourself in relation to the classes offered by your school and how you performed in those classes. If submitted, we will evaluate test scores separately from your classroom performance and will only consider test scores if they have a positive impact on the evaluation process.

Yes. All applicants are considered for scholarships and the Honors Program regardless of the submission of test scores. There is no separate application required for either. Please note that the Bentley Women’s Leadership Program requires a separate application. However, test scores are not required for this program either.

On the Bentley supplement to the Common Application, you will indicate whether you want Bentley to consider your test scores in our evaluation. We encourage you to make this decision prior to submitting your application. If you indicate that you want us to use your scores, and then change your mind, you must do so prior to the application deadline for the admission program to which you are applying (Early Decision I, Early Decision II, or Regular Decision). Alternatively, if your application indicates you do not want us to use your scores and you change your mind, you have until the application deadline to make the change. If you have already submitted your Common Application but it is prior to your application deadline, send confirmation of your change in preference by email to [email protected] .

We realize that not all students will have access to one of the standardized tests. However, if you do have test scores, you will not be disadvantaged by sending them. Please note that Bentley “super scores” any test scores you submit, taking into account only the highest score achieved on each test section, if you took the test multiple times.

If you do choose to submit scores, we will accept unofficial scores. (If you are admitted and enroll, official scores will be required prior to enrollment). Submit either official or unofficial test scores in one of the following ways: 

• Submitted directly from the testing agency (SAT code: 3096; ACT code: 1783)
• Included on your secondary school transcript
• Sent directly by your school/college counselor or CBO advisor to [email protected] or fax +1-781-891-3414

The NCAA has eliminated standardized test scores as part of the initial eligibility process for student-athletes enrolling Fall 2023 and thereafter. Other academic requirements remain the same.

No. If you are a non-native English speaker, you will still be required to demonstrate English language proficiency by submitting results from one of the following tests: TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge English Assessment, or Duolingo. All of these tests are offered online. You may qualify for a waiver of this requirement. However, you must submit standardized test scores and meet our English language proficiency waiver policy for either First Year or Transfer students.

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Spartacus Educational

Anatoly gorsky, anatoly gorsky in the usa, elizabeth bentley, recalled to moscow, primary sources, (1) kathryn s. olmsted , red spy queen (2002).

Gorsky was not only the chief of NKGB operations in America but also the first secretary at the Soviet embassy. He had made a name for himself in London, where he had controlled the "Cambridge Five," the British spies who counted Kim Philby and Donald Maclean among their number. Gorsky had followed Maclean to Washington when the British diplomat had been posted to the embassy there. Once in Washington, Gorsky supervised agents, cultivated presidential advisers, and recommended assassinations. There was something about him, Elizabeth said later, that made "shivers run up and down your spine." She had demanded to see someone at the top, and she had gotten her wish. Thus began Elizabeth's relationship with her last - and most powerful-NKGB controller. In an elaborate pas de deux, the two champion manipulators tried to placate, deceive, and outwit each other. A survivor of the Stalinist purges, Gorsky plainly thought that he could handle this difficult American woman. Like his predecessors, though, he had no idea of the strength and shrewdness of his adversary. Gorsky seemed to view Elizabeth as a child, and, like all bad parents, he attempted to solve this discipline problem with threats and bribes. The bribe came first. At their second meeting, in New York in November, he told her it was a memorable day. The top Communists in the motherland had awarded her the Order of the Red Star. If she ever went to Moscow, she would only have to show her star to be "wined and dined and treated like a princess." The honor was not a good choice. Although she appeared to respond with "cordial gratitude," Elizabeth was actually seething beneath the surface. She knew better than to go to Moscow, and some silly Russian decoration meant nothing to her. Gorsky had better luck with threats. At their third meeting, a week before Christmas 1944, he summarily informed Elizabeth that he was taking over all of her sources. "I'm afraid our friend Golos was not too cautious a man, and there is the risk that you, because of your connection with him, may endanger the apparatus," he explained. Meanwhile, she could decide if she wanted to continue with the underground in another location with new contacts. That was that; no more debate, no more angst. The decision had been made without her." The loss of her sources was upsetting enough, but then something else happened that night to anger Elizabeth even more. The two participants told dramatically different tales of what happened next. In her version, Gorsky sexually harassed her. He stared at her like "a trader about to decide whether to buy a horse" and said, suggestively, "I like you personally; I think we could work very well together." She was overwhelmed with "nausea." In Gorsky's version, though, his lonely, oversexed agent made a pass at him. She purred suggestively that he reminded her of her dead lover and talked of how she would like to start a family. In a panic, Gorsky wired to Moscow that his bosses should reconsider the matchmaking possibilities for his amorous agent. He wanted someone else to absorb her considerable sexual energy." It is impossible to know for certain who was telling the truth. But Gorsky did not have a reputation for sexual adventures, while Elizabeth did. Moreover, he told his version of the event at the time, whereas she told her side much later. In any event, whether he insulted her by propositioning her or by rejecting her proposition, the net result was that she felt insulted. That insult only strengthened Elizabeth's conviction to leave the Soviet service. Over the course of the next month, Gorsky forced Elizabeth to turn over all of her contacts to him. She was exhausted, "mentally, and physically, from the strain of leaving them." They were, after all, her friends.

(2) Allen Weinstein , The Hunted Wood: Soviet Espionage in America (1999)

Earl Browder's complaint about Elizabeth Bentley backfired, leading to growing Soviet distrust of Browder, not Bentley. She encouraged this process by reporting to the NKGB in October 1944 - falsely perhaps - that Browder had changed his view of Soviet intelligence and now called Bentley's work "dirty blackmail," urging American Communists to keep their distance from Russian operatives. Moreover, according to Bentley, Browder had complained that although he had rendered great assistance to Soviet intelligence, the USSR's operatives had done nothing for him. Whether or not linked to this latest turn in Bentley's loyalties, Washington station chief Anatoly Gorsky informed her in November that she had been decorated with the Order of the Red Star. In response to the news, Gorsky informed Moscow, "she expressed cordial gratitude and assured me that she would work indefatigably to justify the reward." By the following month, however, Bentley's emotional restlessness resurfaced dramatically. In a meeting with Gorsky where they exchanged Christmas presents, Bentley informed her Russian colleague that he reminded her of Jacob Golos. It was difficult for a young and lonely woman to live without a man, she told him, noting that she thought more and more often about having a family. A flustered Gorsky, plainly hoping to avoid entanglement, immediately cabled Moscow stating that it was urgent to find a husband for Bentley. He repeated the concern expressed by Akhmerov six months earlier: "Think over the issue of (Bentley's) marriage," Gorsky told his superiors. Complaints about Elizabeth Bentley's tradecraft had increased by then, especially her intermingling of public and secret activities. In December 1944, Moscow learned from other American agents that Bentley's associates in the U.S. Shipping Corporation knew of her intelligence work, that she failed to recognize other Soviet agents following her, and that she was dangerously careless in her work: "Sometimes (Bentley) used her apartment for meetings with agents, and some... have her home telephone number." Because the members of her network knew one another, "the entire organization is in such a state now that, if somebody began even a very superficial investigation, the entire group with its direct connections would be unmasked immediately," one of her adversaries wrote the station." Virtually all of the professional operatives who dealt with her had come by then to similar conclusions. Such inattention to the crucial details of her responsibilities as a courier may have reflected the primacy of personal matters for Bentley during the spring of 1945. Elizabeth's NKGB associates discovered that she had found a new lover, an American named Peter Heller.... In conversations with NKGB supervisors, Bentley continued to complain about her "lack of a male friend to satisfy her natural needs." Gorsky continued questioning her about Heller, and Bentley "told us a number of details about her lover which left no doubts that he was an agent of the FBI or one of "Arsenal's" (the U.S. War Department's) counterintelligence." Gorsky urged Bentley to halt the romance and take a vacation, which she apparently did, "but it is difficult to say to what degree she left her lover." Bentley's own description of Peter Heller confirmed Gorsky's worst fears. Heller described himself as a lawyer and National Guard reserve officer who worked as an investigator for the government, verifying the qualifications of people recommended for promotion in the U.S. Army - in other words, a military intelligence operative. "Overall now," Gorsky informed Moscow, "(Bentley) is a serious and dangerous burden for us here. She should be taken home (to the Soviet Union), but how to do it, frankly speaking, I don't know since she won't go illegally." Even Bentley had concluded by then that Heller had worked for the FBI at some point, telling her that he had taken part in investigations of Communists and knew the Russian language. As the romance continued, so did planning by her NKGB colleagues for Bentley's imminent (if involuntary) departure from the United States. "Some time ago," Gorsky reported to Moscow on September lo, "we began preparing her for removal from New York to another city or country to continue work for us there." Gorsky suggested that Bentley relocate "in a country where entry visas for Americans are not needed-Canada, Mexico, Brazil, etc. She has refused to leave New York illegally." Bentley told Gorsky that she wanted only to return to work at the U.S. Shipping Corporation, which she had left earlier that year. But Gorsky still believed that she should be taken to the Soviet Union. (Wartime restrictions precluded any obvious "legal" means of removing Bentley to the USSR.) Moscow responded on September 14, again urging Gorsky to convince Bentley to end her affair with Heller, but cautioned against further discussion with her about leaving America: "She understands what this is all about." By that time, the NKGB believed (correctly, as it turned out) that Bentley "is evidently being actively cultivated"' by U.S. counterintelligence agents and therefore Gorsky should not meet with her as frequently. Despite the warning signs, Moscow's response to the situation remained surprisingly paternal, suggesting that Bentley be offered another position and, if necessary, financial help: "After she is back from vacation, use her only on new talent-spottings and recruitments.... It is important for us to load (Bentley) up so much that she has no time to think too much and no time to practice romance, etc. Try to avoid using her for contact with old agents known to her and valuable to us. It would be good to give her in marriage, even with the help of known Communists." The situation did not improve. Gorsky reported on September 27 that Bentley had returned from vacation and met with him "semi-drunk." She declined Gorsky's suggestion that they meet at a later time and stated that "if I broke up the meeting, we would never see her any more... and that she drank in order to tell in a drunken state that which she did not dare discuss soberly.

(3) Anatoli Gorsky, report to Moscow (March 1945)

Recently ALES (Hiss) and his whole group were awarded Soviet decorations. After the Yalta conference, when he had gone on to Moscow, a Soviet personage in a cry responsible position (ALES gave to understand that it was Comrade Vyshinsky, deputy foreign minister), allegedly got in touch with ALES and at the behest of the military NEIGHBOURS (GRU) passed oil to him their gratitude and so on.

(1) Christopher Andrew & Vasili Mitrokhin , The Mitrokhin Archive (1999) page 118

(2) gordon brook-shepherd , the storm petrels: the flight of the first soviet defectors (1977) page 163, (3) robert cecil , a divided life (1988) page 66, (4) quoted by genrikh borovik , the philby files: the secret life of a master spy (1994) page 135, (5) ben macintyre , a spy among friends (2014) page 72, (6) allen weinstein , the hunted wood: soviet espionage in america (1999) page 276, (7) kathryn s. olmsted , red spy queen (2002) page 74, (8) harvey klehr and john earl haynes , spies: the rise and fall of the kgb in america (2010) page 29, (9) kathryn s. olmsted , red spy queen (2002) page 74, (10) elizabeth bentley , out of bondage (1988) page 173, (11) elizabeth bentley , out of bondage (1988) page 267, (12) allen weinstein , the hunted wood: soviet espionage in america (1999) page 99-101, (13) kathryn s. olmsted , red spy queen (2002) page 74, (14) allen weinstein , the hunted wood: soviet espionage in america (1999) page 101, (15) anatoly gorsky, memo to moscow (27th november, 1944), (16) allen weinstein , the hunted wood: soviet espionage in america (1999) page 107.