Hi there,
W&M’s optional supplemental essay prompt asks: “Beyond your impressive academic credentials and extra curricular accomplishments, what else makes you unique and colorful?” Does this mean that discussing something related to an extracurricular is off-limits? I have a great story that took place in the context of an extracurricular activity but isn’t a “typical” experience one would have in that extracurricular activity, and I think it shows how I’m “unique and colorful” (hopefully). In other words, I’m not just listing my resume or reiterating what’s on my application. But if my topic relates to an activity I listed on the Common App, would that violate the prompt?
Thanks so much!
Hi xcgal!
I am definitely not the authority on what the admissions officers are looking for (just a regular W&M student), but I faced a similar problem when applying so I’ll try my best to help.
My short answer would be that as long as you’re showcasing a unique part of your personality, anything goes. Of course, this should fall within the boundaries of common sense. As you mentioned, listing your resume or reiterating what is on your application wastes everyone’s time.
In my application essay I wrote about how I am extremely accident prone. At the end of the essay I connected the help I’ve received from strangers while in need to how I was passionate about helping strangers through my music. Even though I had included music activities and accolades throughout my common app, it felt completely natural to spend almost another full paragraph discussing music in my essay as an integral part of my personality. I was nervous about using music so heavily throughout my application package at the time, but in the end I guess it worked! 
I really do believe the admissions officers are looking for a chance to see a unique and likeable person throuh your essay. If your supplement includes an extracurricular activity but also proves how you are a real person outside of that activity, I say go for it! Again, I’m not the end-all authority on this, but I would wager that the specific wording “outside of your extracurricular accomplishments” should not stop you from using any acitivity as a background to provide original insight in your own voice.
This was a super long answer, but I hope it helps! Best of luck!
@crimswell Thank you so much, that was very helpful! Good to hear from someone who made it through to the other side. 
Honestly you sound like you are good! I think in large part what admissions officers are looking for is something that is unique about you that is not a repeat of your resumes or accomplishments you have already stated. Aka your bragging sheet I think you are fine if your story takes place in the context of an extracurricular, as long as it helps bring out your uniqueness and your individuality, which are traits they are likely looking for. I think I wrote mine about my love of wordplay and synesthesia. Best of luck!