<p>What exactly are they looking for in this. Does it need (should it be) a tradition essay, or is this intended as a short answer question? Should it be straight to the point in answering the questions posed, or should (can it) include a few anecdotes. Any suggestions? </p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>You should try to convey a knowledgeable interest in what Oberlin has to offer that draws you to want to join the community there. There are earlier posts that talk about what makes Oberlin a special and unique academic and social environment -- but some of the main points are the presence of a conservatory and art museum, a student-focused and challenging academic environment that is strong across the curriculum, a culture of social and environmental activism, a well-developed student cooperative dining/living option, a history and legacy of social "fearlessness" -- one of the first colleges open to African Americans and women, location on the underground railroad...do some research and visit the school if you can.</p>
<p>After you've done that research ^^, try to place yourself in your imagination in that environment and tell them why you think you'd flourish there. Try to connect what you researched, either through the web or in personal visit, to what you already know inspires you. </p>
<p>Connect what Oberlin has to offer in terms of academic departments, social/political climate, artistic/musical culture with your interests, so far in life. Figure out why what Oberlin offers relates extremely well to who you are, what moves you, or what you might want to pursue in college life and studies, whether that's a forward development or exciting departure from what you've done before.</p>
<p>Also think about how you could envision yourself contributing some of your past interests and skills to the organizations and activities that Oberlin fosters. What clubs, activities or organizations could you imagine yourself doing there.</p>
<p>The readers of these applications already know about Oberlin, but they don't know anything about you; so explain to them exactly why you believe there is a relationship between what the school has to offer and what you seek in a college experience. </p>
<p>Idea starters: If I were at Oberlin, I'd study...; on a weekend, I can imagine myself doing...; something I could only find at Oberlin that I've always wanted to explore is...; the chance to combine X and Y is possible at Oberlin.... </p>
<p>As you write, include some generalities and some specifics. If you love the architecture, the campus or town size, a certain corner of the campus, had a nice conversation there or elswhere about Oberlin with someone (student or alumnus) that you remember..those are also worthy of including briefly in such an essay. If you read something that jumped out at you as "uniquely available at Oberlin" then say what impressed you and why it matters to you.</p>
<p>OP asked about including a few anecdotes; I think this can be very good, if you are comfortable with it, and of course it should be relevant to the question. Sometimes a good story tells a lot; you "show" rather than "tell" your point.</p>
<p>An entire anecdote can be captured in just a sentence or two. Certainly don't turn one anecdote into half the essay! A few short anecdotes also make it more interesting for the reader, too, who has to plow through hundreds of these essays and stay awake.</p>
<p>At Oberlin, the "Why Oberlin" essay is considered a very important statement, so take your time and do a good, thoughtful job of it. It's not a throw-off and will be looked at very carefully by the readers for sincerity.</p>
<p>I'm also writing the Why Essay, and I personally recommend talking to students and alumni on The</a> Oberlin LJ.
Don't just list a bunch of things listed on the website, because there's more to a school than what it claims to be.</p>
<p>Is the "Why Oberlin?" essay the last question on the supplement? I'm applying and I'm worried because I am not sure what this is referring to!</p>
<p>The Why Oberlin essay is part of the supplement that you can submit first (as they prefer) or with your entire application</p>