Just When I Thought It Was Over: The Supplemental Essay Dash Began

Kate-Jen Barker-Schlegel
Jul 16
4 min read

Frustrated parent discovering supplemental essay requirements.

As a parent, I thought we had crossed the finish line in the marathon that is the college admissions process. My daughter excelled in her main application essay, and she was eager to apply to colleges. But just when we thought she was done writing, we discovered the dreaded supplemental essays!

In this post, I’ll share my daughter’s experience during this unexpected twist in her college application journey. We’ll explore the purpose of supplemental essays, why so many colleges require them, some common prompts, and tips on how to navigate this stage once you've thought you were out of the woods.

Understanding Supplemental Essays

Supplemental essays are additional essays that colleges often require alongside the main college application essay. While the primary essay allows students to express who they are, supplemental essays often dive deeper into the applicant's motivations, interests, and fit for the specific college.

These essays can vary significantly from one institution to another. For instance, the University of Chicago is known for its quirky prompts like, "If you could uninvent one thing, what would it be — and what would unravel as a result?" On the other hand, Stanford University often asks students to discuss their future goals and how their experiences shaped them. By asking these specific questions, colleges aim to gauge how well candidates align with the school’s mission and culture.

"Why are they so important?" you might ask. Well, colleges receive thousands of applications each year. For example, for the class of 2028, Cornell University received 65,612 applications. 5,516 students were accepted. Supplemental essays help colleges differentiate applicants who may have similar grades and test scores, painting a fuller picture of them as individuals beyond mere numbers.

Common Supplemental Essay Prompts

Walking into this new chapter of writing, I found that many of the prompts were not only thought-provoking but also quite creative! Here are a few examples we encountered:

Why This College? - "What makes you interested in attending [College Name]?" A great student might discuss a specific program or professor that caught their interest.
Personal Statement - "Describe a significant interaction you have had with someone (teacher, peer, mentor) that has shaped who you are today." Students can share poignant moments that reflect their growth.
Challenges - "Discuss an obstacle you have faced and how it has impacted you." This might include overcoming a personal struggle, such as dealing with an illness or a family challenge.
Future Aspirations - "What are your goals for the future, and how can [College Name] help you achieve them?" Here, students should be specific—perhaps mentioning a relevant minor or workshop the college offers.

These prompts are crafted not just to test the student’s writing ability but also to provide insights into their character, aspirations, and overall fit for the college.

Timing Matters: When to Expect the Prompts

Mark your calendars—most colleges post their supplemental essay prompts on August 1st each year. However, some institutions release theirs even earlier! For example, schools like the University of California system often share their prompts in late July. This early release can be a game-changer for applicants who want a head start on their writing.

I quickly learned that it’s a good idea to follow colleges on social media and sign up for their email lists. My daughter did just that, which kept her informed about any early prompt releases and gave her extra time to brainstorm and write her essays.

A Personal Adventure in Essay Writing

When my daughter first faced the supplemental essays, her feelings were a mix of excitement and dread. Excitement because it meant she could share more of her unique story, but dread because the writing process can be overwhelming!

As we sat down to brainstorm, it became clear that these essays provided her an opportunity to dive deeper into her passions and experiences. For instance, through one essay, she could discuss her love for community service and how a specific event shaped her desire to study social work. This illuminated aspects of her personality that her main application didn't capture.

However, the process wasn't without challenges. At times, writer's block set in, leading to dramatic sighs and frustrated moments. Every time she thought she'd finished one prompt, another would appear. “Just one more?” While frustrating at times, this journey became a bonding experience between us. We spent more time discussing her life, interests, and aspirations than we had during the busy senior year.

Navigating Supplemental Essays Successfully

Reflect on Your Journey: Encourage your student to think about their experiences and values. This reflection fuels their writing with authenticity.
Customize Each Response: Instead of repurposing existing essays, students should tailor each response. This shows the college why they are a good fit for that specific institution.

As we worked through the supplemental essays, I witnessed my daughter grow not just as a writer but as a young woman finding her voice. While these essays are just one part of the larger college admissions puzzle, they play a significant role in showcasing her individuality.

Embracing the Challenge Ahead

The journey through college admissions is often full of unexpected twists and turns. Just when you think you’re done with essays, supplemental essays can come as a surprise.

It's essential to view these prompts as a chance to provide deeper insights into the applicant's life and aspirations. With creativity, patience, and a collaborative spirit, students can navigate this part of the process effectively, making their unique stories shine.

So, to all parents and students gearing up for college applications, don't fret over supplemental essays—consider them opportunities to reflect, express, and truly showcase what makes you, you!