Most colleges and universities, though not all, will also require you to submit written reflections that give the admission committee a larger window into your life—also known as college essays. Essays are the main opportunity in the application process for your voice, values, and personality as an applicant to be on display. While essays also allow colleges to assess your writing abilities, their primary purpose is to tell the admission committee something in depth about you and what you care about that isn’t captured in another part of the application. Admission essays come in two primary forms: The personal statement and college-specific supplements.

The Personal Statement is a longer-form essay about you that shouldn’t be tailored to specific colleges. It’s written in the first person and is less formal. You can choose any topic that tells the admissions committee something about you, what you care about or value, how you spend your time, a meaningful experience you’ve had, how you’ve contributed to the communities you belong to, etc. Choose a specific topic or experience of significance to you. Write from a place of authenticity in your voice. Remember, colleges want to admit you, not someone you’re trying to be or an identity you’re trying to project.

 Colleges may ask for essay responses to prompts called supplements in addition to the Personal Statement. These essays should not be taken lightly, as admissions counselors pay close attention to them. Common supplement prompts include “Why This College?”, academic interests, extracurricular activities, identity, and community contributions.

Authenticity is critical when answering creative supplemental prompts. There is rarely a “right” or “wrong” answer, so be creative and show your personality. Admissions counselors expect answers typical of a high school student’s experience.