<p>In preparation for the worst, I'm beginning filling out my RD applications. However, two of them that I have not visited (Oberlin, Macalester) require "Why us?" essays and I've found pondering that topic very difficult. I like small, liberal arts schools, especially those that have a left-winged reputation, but that applies to just about every other LAC out there. Any tips or advice? Not particularly to those schools, but attacking the Why? question for places you've only researched online. I wrote a supplemental "Why Brandeis" essay with no problem, but that's because I'm head-over-heels in love with it.</p>
<p>Do your research. These schools want some research done on them.</p>
<p>do some research, but also speak from your heart. if you just say "you're school is really good and the academics and people are nice" blah blah blah, they see that all the time. they know their school is good, thats why they work there. say WHY you want to go there (you like certain programs, you like the sense of community, you think you could do better in a smaller atmosphere, ect) they'll see that you really do want to attend. make them believe that that school is your dream, #1 goal.</p>
<p>whatever they said</p>