I’ve been working on the applications to several fly-in programs (Carleton, Amherst, Haverford, Wesleyan) and they all require at least an essay. One topic is about “why you’re interested in visiting and why you should be considered for the program”. Is this like a why essay on common app and for the second part write about my adverse circumstances?
Another common prompt is “how will you use your background and experience to contribute to conversations on campus?”, which I honestly have no idea what to write. Any help or advice is greatly appreciated!
Also, do you think as an asian international student, my chances of being accepted are lower?
You want your readers to think, “This kid would be great for this program. He/she needs to be here, and he/she has the kind of personality/experiences/interests/goals that would make him/her a great addition to the campus community.” You need to tell them why you need to be there (many people want to go, but not as many people need to go. how will the program help you achieve your goals? what will you learn?); that is the “why you’re interested in visiting” part.
With the second part, you can take two approaches. 1. If the school has a focus or something it highly values, like developing leaders or community service, highlight the parts of your life that show that you’ve done your research on the school, and you belong there. 2. What makes you unique? Colleges want a group of students that is diverse. This doesn’t necessarily have to be about adverse circumstances, though if you think that they make you special in some way, feel free to write about it.
The “how will you use your background” prompt is basically the “what makes you unique” question worded in a different way. The great thing about conversations is that everyone has their own backgrounds and knowledge that shape their perspectives. So think about what a college community might be talking about. If it’s a college in a big city, for example, the conversations might be about homelessness or health disparities. If it’s a college big on liberal arts, the conversations might be about different authors and cultures. Whatever you are interested in, there’s probably a conversation happening on campus about it. What do you know about that subject, and why is it important?
I think your chances of getting in will vary from school to school, and generally, Asian students and international students often find themselves at a disadvantage when applying. That’s why you need to convey how well you will fit in with the school and set yourself apart from all the other Asian international students that are applying.
At least in Amherst case, students living outside the US are not eligible for fly in, you should check the rest of the schools to see. Asian-American students, however, are encouraged to apply along with urm and first gen kids. https://www.amherst.edu/admission/diversity/divoh
Very helpful advice, OnMyWay2013