The college admission essay is an important part of the application process. It’s your opportunity to show admissions officers why you should be admitted to their school. There are some schools that may phrase their admissions essay as “Why this college” or “Why this school”
This type of essay gives you the opportunity to talk about what unique opportunities the school could offer you.
When writing your college admissions essay, it is important to do your research about the school you are applying to. You should be specific about why the college interests you. For example, you might say that you are interested in the research opportunities available at the school or talk about how the school’s unique curriculum aligns with your academic interests.
It is also important to be honest in your college admissions essay. Admissions officers typically can tell when applicants are being genuine and when they are simply trying to say what they think the admissions committee wants to hear. Be authentic in your essay and tell your story in your own words. This might give the admissions committee a better sense of who you are as a person.
Give concrete examples of what you have done or are interested in outside of the classroom that has prepared you for the college. Show that you understand what makes this school unique and why it is a good fit for you. Admissions officers might want to see that you have done your research and that you are truly interested in their school. They may also want to see that you are a good fit for their community. So take the time to do your research and write a strong “Why this college” essay!
So…How do you research a college?
There are a few different ways that you may research a college. One way is to visit the college’s website or social media accounts. The website will have a lot of information about the school, including the admissions requirements, the academic programs offered, and student life. You can also find out about scholarships and financial aid opportunities.
Another way to research a college is to visit the campus in person. This will give you a chance to see the school for yourself and get a feel for the student body and the campus community. You could also talk to current students and faculty members to get their insights about the college.
What questions can you ask current students?
When you visit a college campus, talk to current students about their experiences at the school. Ask them what they like and don’t like about the school, and find out what opportunities the school has to offer. Another question to also ask them about is the admissions process and how they prepared for it.
You can also ask them about their academic experiences and if they have any advice for you. For example, you might ask them about their major and what they like about it. You can also ask them about their professors and how they have helped them succeed in their studies.
Asking current students questions about their college experience might give you valuable insights into what the school is really like. Talk to as many current students as you can to get a well-rounded view of the school!
What questions can you ask faculty members?
When you visit a college, you can also talk to the faculty members about their experiences at the school. Faculty members should be able to tell you about the academic programs offered at the school and give you advice on choosing a major. They might also tell you about campus life and how to get involved in the community.
Faculty members may also help you understand the admissions process and what the school is looking for in an applicant. They might also answer any questions you have about the school and give you tips on how to make your application stand out.
Asking faculty members about their experiences at the college could give you a better understanding of what the school has to offer. Talk to as many faculty members as you can to get the most information!
Finally, read college guidebooks or search online for articles and reviews about the school. All of this information may help you decide if the college is the right fit for you.
Examples of “Why This College” Essay Prompts
- What have you done to prepare for this college?
- Why are you interested in attending our school?
- What makes our college unique?
- Why would you be a good fit for our college community?
- What are your academic interests and how will they be met at our school?
- How do you see yourself contributing to our campus?
- What do you bring to the table that other applicants don’t?
What to avoid in the essay
DON’T
- List off reasons why the school is great without showing how those things connect to you and your interests.
- Just focus on one aspect of the school (e.g., only the research opportunities).
- Use clichés or generalities (e.g., “I want to be a part of the exciting community”).
- Talk about why you don’t like your current school.
- Be negative in any way.
So, now you know how to write a “why this college” essay. By doing your research and asking the right questions, you should be able to find the information you need to make an informed decision about the college that’s right for you. And by being specific and showing why you’re a good fit for the school, you may convince the admissions committee that you’re worth a spot in the incoming class!