As senior students wrap up their regular decision applications, they start finalizing their supplemental essays for their college applications. Many colleges and universities that require supplemental essays include the question "Why (insert name of college)?" This question presents the most problems for high school students. Frequently, the answer includes a long list of why the college is perfect. However, what the answer fails to explain is why is the college perfect for YOU? The college knows what it is about, it's strengths, and what it stands for. The college is really asking what parts about the college make you want to go there. In other words, how does the student fit within the college community and what would the student add to it?
This question is not posed as a challenge to see what the applicant knows about the school in general. The question is posed to find out what draws the student to apply to the college. Be specific. What do you want to major in? Why? If you do not know, what programs of study interest you? What about the culture excites you? What extracurricular activities do you want to be a part of? Is there a specific, unique internship opportunity or study abroad experience that you are dying to take advantage of?
In order to test the strength of the supplemental essay, substitute the real name of the college with another college that it is similar to. Read the essay aloud. If it still makes sense, then the essay is not one you should keep. Make sure that the essay is so specific that it would not make sense to use on any other application. It is only then that you know you are finished.
News and Notes:
PSAT scores are available online for 10th and 11th graders on College Board's website. Check your email with a video demonstration for how to access scores and what they mean.
Friday, December 16th at 7:45 am: Coffee with Counselors: Understand your PSAT Scores: Library: RSVP to Anne Murray at murraya@cantonma.org
