Essays can be one way for applicants to distinguish themselves and present their case for why s/he should be admitted. But, they require some effort.
Often, the Common Application Supplements–which are a series of questions specific to the individual college submitting in addition to the general Common Application–provides the applicant the opportunity to tell more about WHY they chose and are a match for said college. Using the Emory University Supplement question as a basis for our conversation, Art and I discuss HOW to write an effective Supplement essay, which can begin long before actually typing your thoughts into a Word document. Below is the Emory Supplement question for reference:
What are the unique qualities of Emory University, and the specific school(s) to which you are applying (Emory College of Arts and Sciences, Oxford College, or both), that make you want to become part of Emory University? In what ways do you hope to take advantage of the qualities you have identified? Please limit your response to 250 words.
