As I’ve been starting drafts for my college essays, I’ve run into a little bit of a roadblock. Many schools have “why our university?” Prompts, while some have “why this specific college?” (Ex: why the college of engineering?")
I’m unsure of what to write for these kinds of essays. What are the admissions counselors looking to see in these essays? For the “why our university” essays, should I write about what I want to major in, what sports/clubs I would join, etc? I’m stuck because I obviously can’t write “I want to go your school because it’s One of the best in the country” or something that they already know.
I think the “why this specific college?” Essay is going to be a little tougher, since it’s based off a specific college and not the university as a whole. For these essays, should I talk about research that professors in that college are doing? Should I talk about the majors/minors the college offers, and why I want to pursue that major? I have tried researching on the specific colleges websites, but I haven’t found much info that I could include in the essay. Most of the website pages I’ve visited have just bragged about the schools rankings and such.
Sorry if this might seem like a dumb question, I’m just stuck on what to write. I want these essays to be perfect, and I want them to be unique and stand out against the other applicant essays.
Also–is it okay to namedrop a professor in your essay? Or say something like, “I’m interested in participating in research alongside X professor”??
If anyone has any tips on how to write great “why us” essays, can link me to a site where I can find good examples, or give me tips on how to do in-depth research, I’d really appreciate it!
Hey.
If you’re writing to a college that you’ve always wanted, then it’ll be easy to express your interest. But, if you’re taking a blind shot at a random XYZ then you must play your cards right.
Start off with how pleased you are to write to them (just a couple of lines).
Then talk about the growth prospect you have with them studywise and as a person. (mention some programmes that interest you)
Stay within the word limit (min 250 words max 650 words)
You can visit this site for some good college essays. http://www.123helpme.com/
Which one is the “why us” essay on that site? @EthanMill
Although I am a sophomore, the way I would approach this question would be with some research into the college’s research facilities, clubs, etc.
Then with the research you did, write about the things you would be interested in doing while there.
Also include what you plan on doing after college; what program, department, or whatever you plan on going to in the college; and how this college will help you be successful.
I would not include the ranking of the college,
if there’s a relevant anecdote, include it. Colleges want to see that you’ve researched them, but they’re really asking why you’re a good fit for them rather than why they’re a good fit for you. Show them how you fit into that school. (But also don’t stress too much, lots of people get into schools with pretty generic “why is” essays)
For "why this specific college, consider why a major or department appeals to you. Write about it. Again, a little story/example may strengthen the writing and show why you’re a good fit, if it’s used right.
Specific research could be good to bring up, if it’s a project you’re genuinely interested in, but I would word it as if you would definitely work alongside that professor; an undergrad may very well not end up working on a specific research project. Just throw something in about your interest in [x specific research by Prof. Y at Z Jniversity, for q reasons],