Writing a personal essay is a powerful way to highlight your individuality beyond grades and test scores. It gives you the opportunity to share the experiences, goals and values that have shaped your academic journey. However, many students find it challenging to craft a compelling personal essay. That's why we've put together a few tips to help yours stand out.

Next Steps

1. Review the essay prompts.
2. Brainstorm responses to each prompt. Identify the prompt where your ideas flow best.
3. Outline your essay to ensure you answer the prompt you selected and are sharing more about yourself with the Admissions Committee.
4. Write without regard to the word limit. It is easier to cut out words than to generate additional content.
5. Proof your essay for clarity and generate a draft for a trusted advisor to provide feedback on.
6. Assess suggested changes and confirm that your voice is still present after making edits.

Essay Prompts

1. Some students have a background, identity, interest or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
2. The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
3. Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking What was the outcome?
4. Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
5. Discuss an accomplishment, event or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
6. Describe a topic, idea or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
7. Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt or one of your own design.