emory university essay examples

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How to Write the Emory University Essays 2023-2024

Emory University has two required essay prompts for applicants, one of which is the same question for all applicants with the other having six different options for applicants to choose from. The prompts are relatively short, clocking in at 200 words and 150 words, respectively, which means every word counts towards making your application stand out.

Read these Emory essay examples to inspire your writing.

Emory University Supplemental Essay Prompts

Prompt 1: What academic areas are you interested in exploring at Emory University and why? (200 words)

Prompt 2:  Please answer one of the following questions: (150 words)

• Option A: Which book, character, song, monologue, or other creative work (fiction or non-fiction) seems made for you? Why?
• Option B: Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness.
• Option C: Emory University aspires for all students to flourish on campus. Reflect on what flourishing at Emory means to you.
• Option D: Emory University’s core mission calls for service to humanity. Share how you might personally contribute to this mission.
• Option E: Emory University has a strong commitment to building community. Tell us about a community you have been part of where your participation helped to change or shape the community for the better.
• Option F: Reflection is a central tenet of Emory University’s values. Craft a personal email giving advice to yourself in your first year of high school.

Before You Begin

As Emory’s website states in regard to these essays, “ We encourage you to be thoughtful and not stress about what the right answer might be. We simply want to get to know you better.” This space is an opportunity for you to present yourself as a complex and unique human being.

Remember that before reading your essays and recommendations, your admissions officers will only have seen data points and test scores that describe you. While these numbers are important, you are so much more than a test score . Admission officers want to sympathize with you. They want to root for. They want you to give them a reason to admit you. And this is such a great place for you to give them one! Don’t be afraid to be your true, gloriously weird self.

It’s worth noting that the word limit for these essays is only 150 words. That’s not a lot of space, so the name of the game is brevity . This is not the place for purple prose or modifiers — instead of very hungry, try famished. Consider using sprinted instead of ran as fast as possible. It may seem like a small change, but every word is important here. We recommend that you try to get as close to the 150 word count as possible, and stay within 10-15 words of the limit. 

What academic areas are you interested in exploring in college? (200 words)

This is a very straightforward “ Why This Major? ” prompt that should follow the typical structure for an essay of this archetype. A good response needs to do three things: (1) show your interest in the major through an experience, (2) explain how the major will help you achieve your goals, and (3) demonstrate what resources at the school will help you achieve your goals.

1. Show your interest in the major

You want to start your essay by showing admissions officers your excitement and engagement in the major you have chosen. What positive (or even negative) experiences have you had with this subject that have influenced you? 

A student interested in Creative Writing might talk about how she sees characters in people walking down the street, mythical lands in the places she’s traveled, and new stories that must be told whenever she listens to conversations around her. 

A student interested in Nutrition Science could describe how understanding the science behind the food he ate through independent research helped him turn around his life and lose weight. The easiest way to convey your interest is to use a strong, detailed, and meaningful anecdote.

2. Explain how this major will help you

What do you want to be when you grow up? It’s okay to not know exactly what you want, but you should have a pretty decent idea of what field you are interested in or what type of work you see yourself enjoying. 

If you know that you want to generate cleaner forms of energy to solve the climate crisis, you would mention how majoring in Environmental Sciences will teach you not only the ecological origins of issues facing the world, but how to think creatively to develop feasible solutions. 

Maybe you’re not sure what you want to do, but you are deeply concerned by racial injustice. You could describe how the African American Studies major will allow you to learn about the history of oppression in this country, so you can gain a better understanding of where you could devote your time to do the most good one day. For this section, it’s important you establish a link between your current interests and your future.

3. Demonstrate how Emory can help you

This final step shows the admissions officers that you are genuinely interested in their school and took the time to do outside research. You will want to include resources (classes, professors, research opportunities, study abroad, extracurriculars, etc) that are specific and unique to Emory that you plan to take advantage of while on campus. Just casually mentioning three different resources you will use doesn’t add anything to your essay. You need to connect these resources to your future goals by elaborating on how they will help you. 

For example, a student who is fascinated by the economic causes of war could say they want to work with Professor Caroline Fohlin on her research of pre-war Germany to learn how the economy can predict conflicts. 

Another student who wants to apply AI to smart homes one day would write about their excitement to take the Artificial Intelligence class at Emory since it is solely dedicated to a topic they are interested in. Remember, what you choose to highlight should align with your reasons for applying to this major in the first place.

You can think of the entire essay like a bridge. On one side you have your past experiences and passion for a topic. On the other side, your future career goals and aspirations await you. The only way to get to the other side is by studying your intended major at Emory and utilizing the resources available to you, or crossing the bridge.

Prompt 2, Option A

Which book, character, song, monologue, or piece of work (fiction or non-fiction)  seems made for you why (150 words).

This is a great prompt for people who have a piece of media that they feel really strongly about—and let’s face it, most of us are at least a little obsessed with some kind of media. Think about a piece of media that you feel like you can identify with on a deep, personal level. You should then go a step further and think about why you identify so strongly with that person or thing. What does it say about you? 

Once you have your what (or who) and your why , search for an anecdote that explains your personal connection to this piece of media. For example, maybe you really identify with Katniss Everdeen (your who ) because you’re super protective of your little sister (your why ), so then you can tell the story about that time that you drove 45 minutes late at night to pick your sister up because she was uncomfortable at a party. The more specific the anecdote, the more the admissions officers will get to know you (“Wow what a responsible and selfless sibling this applicant is!”). 

A really easy trap to fall into with a prompt like this is to give the answer that you think admissions officers are looking for. Like maybe you think the admissions officers are looking for you to say that you just love studying so much , so you choose Hermione Granger even though you don’t even like Harry Potter. As in life, you should always be true to yourself in your essays because a) you’re amazing as you are, so you should let people get to know the real you and b) admissions officers will be able to identify essays that are not authentic, so writing a disingenuous response will only reflect poorly on you.

Prompt 2, Option B

Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness. (150 words).

This prompt is ideal for those who have prioritize cultural sensitivity and/or have engaged with people from diverse backgrounds, as you are being asked to think about a time when you intentionally expanded your horizons, and how that deliberate action catalyzed your growth.

So, think of a time when you consciously made the decision to expand your cultural awareness. For example, perhaps your lab partner was a foreign exchange student whose first language was not English, and rather than simply getting through the term as best you could, you used it as an opportunity to recognize your privilege as a native English speaker, and appreciate the culture of a non-English speaking country.

Do be careful that you don’t come across as self-absorbed by suggesting this experience taught you everything there is to know about cultural awareness. Admissions officers aren’t expecting that, and if anything taking that stance could make you come across as naive to the world’s complexity. Instead, acknowledge that you will never know everything there is to know about other cultures, but you are committed to continually growing and learning, as that openness is what colleges do value.

Along those same lines, as you brainstorm, keep in mind that college essays, like any other genre of writing, have cliches . Many applicants have had a “voluntourism” experience — that is, a service trip that benefited the student more than the community they were visiting. Not only are voluntourism stories cliche, they can also make you sound privileged and condescending. Every admissions officer has read countless “I was there to teach them, but really they taught me” essays. 

That said, you can still talk about your service trip experience! Just try to put a unique spin on it, by focusing on a personal anecdote that only happened to you. The more specific, the better. Acknowledge your privilege and explain how you grew from it, and make sure your reader comes away actually knowing something substantive about your personality, not just that you once spent a month in Thailand.

Finally, with a prompt like this, it’s easy to accidentally spend too much of the essay talking about someone else (such as your lab partner). But remember that you only have 150 words, and ultimately you’re the one applying to Emory, so you should be the protagonist of this story. If you’re wondering if you’ve fallen into the trap of spending too much time describing someone else, look at your verbs. You should be the subject of most of those verbs, because you are the star of the story.

For example, you might consider changing “My lab partner taught me about her culture and allowed me to grow” to “By engaging in vulnerable conversations about the challenges of communicating in a new setting, I became more empathetic to the challenges non-native English speakers face every day in the United States.”

Prompt 2, Option C

Emory university aspires for all students to flourish on campus. reflect on what flourishing at emory means to you. (150 words).

This is a variation on a typical “ Why This College? ” essay, but rather than simply asking you why you want to attend Emory, the prompt instead asks what it means to “flourish” at Emory – essentially, what it means to be an Emory student. As such, this is a great prompt to answer for students with an unusually special connection to or interest in Emory, particularly those who want to showcase that Emory is one of their top choices without necessarily applying Early Decision.

This question requires both self-reflection, like any college essay, and a bit of research. Start with the self-reflection, by asking yourself what you hope to gain from your college experience. This can be at Emory specifically, or just at college in general. Are you hoping to find your passion? Do you already know what you want to do and want to connect with professors and mentors in your field of interest? Do you hope to get involved in tons of student organizations and extracurriculars on campus? Or start your own? Really imagine your dream life at college, and think about what makes you most excited to start your journey in higher education.

Once you feel like you have a grasp on why you want to attend college in general, it’s time to narrow your focus to Emory in particular. Browse the school’s website, to find different resources Emory has to help you reach your goals. For example, if you’re interested in studying film, you could write about the “Emory Cinematheque”, a series of professional film screenings open to all Emory students that features various directors, genres, and eras of film. 

To avoid simply name-dropping something that sounds cool, make sure you expand on exactly how a particular resource would help you reach your goals. In this example, you could write about how the Emory Cinematheque and related opportunities would help you synthesize your class material in new and exciting ways, and give you insight into films and media that you previously haven’t encountered.

The last and most important thing to keep in mind when answering this prompt is that you must address the word “flourishing”. Reflect on what that word means to you, and make sure to go into some depth–your goal in this essay is to distinguish yourself from other applicants, and just saying you want to get good grades won’t do that. Rather, what particular skills do you hope to gain that you haven’t already learned in high school? What experiences do you hope to have that are going to move you closer to your personal and professional goals? The more specific you can be, the better. To give you an idea of what we’re talking about here, here’s an example of what you could write, based off the example given above:

“ Engaging with resources such as the Emory Cinematheque would give me access to knowledge I wouldn’t otherwise encounter, and connect with people who can offer different perspectives on that knowledge. Flourishing on campus means being unafraid of the unknown, so that I can take full advantage of the innumerable resources available at Emory that will help me become an iconoclastic yet conscientious film director one day.”

Prompt 2, Option D

Emory university’s core mission calls for service to humanity. share how you might personally contribute to this mission. (150 words).

This is a standard “ Community Service ” essay, which asks you to share how you will embody Emory’s commitment to community service and humanitarian efforts. It’s a great option if you have a robust history with community service, or even just one experience that was highly formative.

Brainstorming Your Topic:

Research opportunities for service that already exist at Emory. The school’s website summarizes service opportunities for students, from break trips, to organized volunteer efforts in Atlanta, to service trips abroad. 

You can also think about things you’re personally invested in, even if nothing on Emory’s site quite aligns with it. For example, if you’re passionate about children’s literacy, maybe you want to talk about your goal of organizing a book drive for elementary school students in Atlanta.

Remember you’re not expected to save the world in your response. In fact, the simpler and more feasible your proposed service opportunity is, perhaps the better. Emory admissions wants to hear what you’re genuinely most interested in, and how you will actually make an impact in the Emory community, and writing about something you could realistically accomplish in college will answer those questions better than saying you’d like to wipe out world hunger.

Tips for Writing Your Essay:

Once you have an idea of what you want to write about, it’s time to organize it into a response. The best way to start is by sharing a little bit about yourself and your connection with community service. This can come in the form of a personal anecdote about a time you volunteered, an issue you’ve encountered in your community or elsewhere that has inspired you, or something you’ve found on Emory’s website that resonates with you on a personal level.

After you share your personal connection with service, tie in the initiative you brainstormed, while also explaining the importance of service to your life as a whole. Here’s an example of how to do that:

“I grew up in a town bordering the Ohio River, well-regarded as the most polluted river in America. As such, I’ve been involved with sustainability efforts since I was little. My parents would take me on river sweeps,’ where we’d travel up and down the river, clearing the water of any debris or litter we could find. At first I thought of it as just a family bonding activity, but now I see environmental service as the foundation upon which my future, and the future of the world, depends. At Emory, I will remain committed to building towards a greener future, by rallying my peers for river sweeps at the Chattahoochee, joining Emory’s various sustainability organizations such as AltKEY, and using my electives to take courses in the Environmental Sciences program. I’m ready to make an impact not just on the community where I grew up, but on Atlanta as well, and eventually, communities all across the country.”

Mistakes to Avoid:

One of the biggest mistakes students make in “Community Service” essays is talking about yourself as a savior to an “underprivileged” community or a community “in need”. Doing so paints a self-aggrandizing portrait of your efforts, which can make admissions officers question your motivation for engaging in service work. To avoid this, focus less on the differences, economic or otherwise, between yourself and the community you helped, and more on what you learned from the experience, rather than projecting an exaggerated sense of gratitude onto the recipients of your service work.

Prompt 2, Option E

Emory university has a strong commitment to building community. tell us about a community you have been part of where your participation helped to change or shape the community for the better. (150 words).

This prompt tasks you with describing a community that has both helped you grow, and given you the opportunity to shape its future. Unlike the previous prompt, this is not a “ Community Service ” essay, as your job is not to talk about how you served a community, but rather how you fit into one.

“Community” can be defined in many different ways. It can be an extracurricular that you’ve been involved with for many years, an aspect of your identity that you feel is important to you, a cultural, religious, or ethnic background you share with others, or something else you’ve sought out as a way to belong. Community is what you define it as, so don’t limit yourself when brainstorming your topic. Instead, think about what you would say to someone who asked you to introduce yourself and explain the kind of things you’re interested in. What comes to mind? What could you not imagine living without? Or, who could you not imagine living without?

You could also approach the prompt by thinking about some of your personal achievements that you’ve been proud of. This is a two-pronged prompt: you’re tasked with describing not just a community you’re a part of, but also your own contributions to that community. If anything, the second piece of the prompt is the more important one, as Emory admissions officers want to know how you’ll contribute to their overall campus community and the smaller communities that exist all across the college. So it’s imperative that whichever community you choose to write about is one that you’ve been actively engaging with for some time.

As such, it’s perhaps better to do away with writing about family or anything else that you don’t plan to take with you to Emory. While sharing that you and your family’s weekly Shabbat dinners have been a stable outlet for you to lean on your family and get in touch with your religion and wider religious community shows a thoughtful, touching sentimentality, it doesn’t actively exemplify how you’ve changed or shaped a community at large. 

That being said, perhaps you’ve invited friends from school to your dinners, or attended some of theirs. You could write about how what started as a family tradition eventually led you into a much broader community, and how you hope to attend Shabbat at Emory Hillel to broaden your Jewish community even further.

As with many other prompts, starting with an anecdote is a surefire way to quickly engage the reader and put them into your shoes. You can write about the time you found or joined the community, a time you felt most proud of your community, or a time you felt most indebted to or grateful for your community. Whatever you choose to do, remember details – what did you see, feel, taste, smell, and so on and so forth.

“ Standing on stage, with our foreheads sweating under the bright spotlights, I looked around at my castmates and felt I was home.”

Without having to say it explicitly, it’s obvious that the student’s chosen community is a theater group, and that the community gives the student a sense of great pride and comfort. Now it’s time to dive into greater detail about the significance of this community.

“But it’s hard not to think about how recently I was a freshman in the ensemble, feeling in over my head, not knowing a single soul, but feeling they were all more talented than me. But the seniors, who were all cast as leads, made it a point to make me and the other freshman feel not just included, but like an essential part of the machine.”

Here, the student starts to explain not just what the community is, but how it has helped them grow, and which lessons they’ll take from their experiences in it to college. To continue answering these more specific questions, they might go on to say something like:

“ When I became an upperclassman myself, I knew I had big shoes to fill. Whether it be by organizing movie nights outside rehearsal, having younger cast members lead warmups, or even just encouraging the cast to sit together at lunch, my goal is that whenever any member of our group looks at the stage, they’ll know they’re a part of a community that will last forever.”

Prompt 2, Option F

Reflection is a central tenet of emory university’s values. craft a personal email giving advice to yourself in your first year of high school. (150 words).

This is an open-ended prompt that gives you the chance to reflect upon your high school experience, both its triumphs and failures. The purpose of this prompt is to show the admissions reader your growth throughout high school and how you would approach it differently, if at all, if given a second chance.

The prompt may initially feel overbearingly profound, but your answer can really be quite simple. The more honest you are in your response, the more accurate a picture you will paint for Emory admissions officers, and while it may feel strange to show vulnerability to a complete stranger, remember that you’re not expected to have all the answers–you’re simply being asked to give advice to a past version of yourself.

That being said, it’s important to show perspective throughout your response. What lessons has high school taught you? Which moments were most pivotal? What aspects or experiences will you carry forward into college? Most specifically, reflect on your freshman year and what assumptions about high school you had that may have proved to be inaccurate. What fears did you have going in? Where did you find community, and how did you find it? What obstacles did you face and how did you overcome them? There are so many routes to follow when answering this prompt, which is exactly why it’s so important to be genuine, as if you try to write “what they want to see”, you’ll be cutting yourself off from some promising approaches.

Unlike many of the other options here, your letter requires no introduction or conclusion, connection to Emory or college in general, or acknowledgment that it’s even hypothetical. Treat the prompt as reality, and write exactly as if you were writing to your freshman year self.

Due to its informal structure, don’t be afraid to incorporate niche aspects of your personality, or even a touch of sarcasm or some other distinctive tone, into your letter. In fact, we recommend doing so as much as you can, as that will showcase a side of you that probably doesn’t show up anywhere else in your application. Whether by relying on humor, sincerity, or bluntness, make this response truly your own. Certainly, keep in mind that the people reading your essay will be complete strangers, but as long as you aren’t saying anything offensive, get in touch with what you would actually say to your past self. For example:

“Dear Robby,

I know how you must be feeling. I know, because, well, I’m you. You’re wide awake, watching Steph Curry highlights at 3 am while trying (and failing) to imagine him as an anxious teenager before his first day of high school. Unfortunately, I have to be honest with you–even now, you’re no closer to being the greatest shooter of all time. Actually, you’re probably further away… you ended up as the manager of the team, not the star. Sorry about that. But that shows what you have become: unafraid to embrace an unexpected path forward, and humble enough to contribute to things you love in a way that won’t make any headlines. So try to get some sleep tonight. Most of us will never be Steph, but nobody would ever know how many points he scored if his manager wasn’t keeping track.

Love, Yourself”

Where to Get Your Emory Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your Emory essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools.  Find the right advisor for you  to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Application Tips

We realize the college application process can feel overwhelming sometimes, and we want to help alleviate some of that stress with this advice.

Letters of Recommendation

Carefully select teachers to write your recommendations . They should come from teachers who taught you in a core academic area (English, math, science, social sciences, global/foreign language, or visual performing arts).

You do not have to pick the teacher who gave you the highest grades. Consider the teacher who challenged you the most, can share details about your strengths, or can tell us how you overcame obstacles.

Personal Statement & Short Answers

We get inspired hearing about you. Your test scores and grades are an important part of demonstrating your academic achievements, but your essay and short answers tell us just a bit more about you and allow us to hear your voice. 

In this example of a well-crafted essay , the admission committee member who reviewed this student’s file had this to say:

This essay is all about honesty. Being honest about their background, honest about their relationship with friends, and honest about their own feelings toward their community. The essay shows growth and reflection. While the simple topic of the essay is essentially not attending a high school dance, it is about so much more. The writing style is straightforward and simple—in a good way—and it is an edited and polished piece. The author of the essay is reflective about their community and does not try to be anything they are not. They understand that if they expect change, they themselves have to be a part of that change.

We hope you use your essay to give us a compelling glimpse of the real you.

Standardized Tests

Only after we’ve reviewed your high school transcript, personal statement, short answer responses, and extracurricular activities, do we turn to your standardized test scores. Usually, they confirm the impressions we have from the rest of your application.

AP, IB, and College Credit

We know you’re an exceptional student, and you’ve worked hard to earn academic credit that may be applied to courses in college. Here are some parameters around what type of credit Emory does (and does not) accept.

Emory University is a highly selective, private research university in Atlanta , Georgia , with only an 18% acceptance rate . Due to its competitive application process, there are two required Emory supplemental essays . This helps the admissions committee personalize their admission decisions among a large pool of equally qualified high school applicants with impressive GPAs and high test scores . Emory supplementals are key factors in the admissions process, so its important to familiarize yourself with past Emory University essay prompts , Emory essays that worked, and tips for writing compelling Emory supplemental essays that will help you stand apart from other applicants.

Emory University has an esteemed liberal arts college, noteworthy professional and graduate programs, and is well-known for its healthcare system. The school attracts lots of medical students and is recognized as one of the nation’s leaders in research. There are lots of reasons why Emory University receives so much attention, and there are lots of qualified applicants who would like to take advantage of the great opportunities Emory has to offer. Read on to gain insights and tips on how to write a successful supplemental essay .

Before you get started on your Emory University supplemental essays for 2022-23:

As a highly-selective institution, Emory University requires two Emory supplemental essays as a part of its application. These brief essays, both of which are under 200 words, help Emory’s admissions officers get a feel for applicants’ individual personalities, passions, and opinions. Test scores and statistics are important, but each Emory University application essay helps narrow down prospective students and personalize the admissions process. Focus on writing personal, compelling Emory supplemental essays in order to stand out and give the admission committee a reason to want to admit you. Emory supplemental essays are typically announced around the end of June. In the meantime, in order to prepare for the college application season, familiarize yourself with the Emory supplemental essays of 2021. 

How to answer the “Academic interests” Emory essay prompts

The first Emory University supplemental essay is always the same and is devoted to your academic interests . This essay is 200 words and is often referred to as the “why this major?” essay. The specific Emory essay prompt is: 

What academic areas are you interested in exploring in college? 

Of course, not all incoming freshman know what they want to major in; don’t let this dissuade you. Use this Emory application essay to convey your passion for and commitment to learning — regardless of whether or not you know what you’d like to study. 

Generally, though, your college essay should answer the following questions:  Why this major? How will this major help you achieve your goals? How will  Emory University  help you specifically?  In terms of organization, addressing these questions, in this order, is straightforward, flows well, and is well-structured.

Step 1: Brainstorm

Brainstorm thoroughly before you start writing your Emory personal statement . Jot down bullet points, record your stream of consciousness, or discuss the Emory essay prompt aloud with a friend. Whatever works best for you. The point is, in order to write a powerful, concise supplemental essay (remember, you only have 200 words!) , you need to have a clear focus and already know what you want to say. Do your best to communicate your personal connection to your chosen essay prompts when drafting your short answer responses. Otherwise, you risk rambling. Take time to reflect deeply before you jump into this part of college admissions . 

Step 2: Why This Major?

Start your Emory supplement essay by explaining why you are passionate about your prospective major. How did you develop an interest in this subject? When did you encounter or experience this subject for the first time ? How will it help you personally and professionally? Why do you believe it is important? 

Be as specific and personal as possible. Ideally, you want to tell a story. A good way to begin this essay is to share a short personal anecdote. Remember though, you only have 200 words so be concise. Just because the essay is brief does not mean it cannot be filled with lots of unique, interesting details.

Step 3: Goals and Aspirations

Discuss some of your greater, post-college goals and aspirations in this Emory University supplemental. This might be highly specific (i.e. a detailed career path), or it may be more abstract (such as pursuing a set of values or ideals). The point is to contextualize your course of study. How does your major fit into the world? Why is it important? What do you hope to accomplish by pursuing this major? Use lots of details.

Step 4: Why Emory?

Conclude your essay by discussing how Emory University , specifically, will help you reach your personal, academic, and professional goals. Again, you want to be as specific as possible, so research the university and your major carefully. Mentioning specific courses, resources, and professors by name will help communicate to the admissions officers that you are committed not only to your education, but to Emory University as well. The admissions officers want to create a dynamic campus community. Therefore, they prioritize admitting applicants who are serious about making the most of Emory University ’s unique resources. 

Step 5: Edit and Proofread

Give yourself enough time to proofread and edit. Ask for feedback on your Emory University application essay from your teachers, peers, guidance counselor, parents, etc. Be confident that your essay is free from grammatical errors.  

How to answer the academic interests Emory essay prompts

There are five essay prompts to choose from for the second Emory supplemental essay . Consider each prompt carefully. Your Emory University essays should feel genuine and natural. There are no “right” answers, so don’t get distracted by what you think might sound impressive. The admissions committee wants to get to know you, so always be truthful and genuine. 

Although the specific essay prompts change year to year, they are typically centered around something meaningful in your life that has changed you in some way. This could include an experience you’ve had, a personal insight, or a field you’re passionate about.

Emory Essay Prompt 1

Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness..

Should you choose this prompt?

Certain areas of the country are much more diverse than others. Only choose this Emory essay prompt if you have real, first-hand experiences of cultural diversity. This is a good prompt to choose if you are an international student, a cultural minority, or grew up in a culturally diverse community. Don’t choose this prompt if you are merely interested in cultural diversity, but do not have any actual, lived experiences to discuss.

The right strategy for this prompt

Like with all of the Emory supplemental essays , be specific, direct, and honest. Do not make up details to make your experience or your reaction seem more impressive. The admission committee wants to see how you interact with others and are able to gain personal insights and integrate them into your actions and worldview. Emory University has a diverse campus culture, so use this essay to show how you can contribute to Emory’s diverse student body and overall sense of community.

Emory Essay Prompt 2

When was the last time you questioned something you had thought to be true.

Choose this prompt if you can easily think of a time when you questioned a religious, political, or otherwise deeply personal view. For instance, did you decide to become a vegetarian after watching a documentary about factory farming? Were you raised in a homophobic household but realized that you wanted to be more open and welcoming? 

To answer this prompt well, you will need to focus on a specific event. Show how this instance inspired, challenged, and changed you. Emory University values students who are willing and able to challenge their existing beliefs and grow.  Are you intellectually curious? Are you able to change your mind? Are you comfortable stepping out of your comfort zone?

Emory Essay Prompt 3

If you could witness a historic event (past, present or future) first-hand, what would it be, and why.

This essay prompt gives you the opportunity to show some of your passions, interests, and values. Choose this prompt if you can think of an answer that clearly resonates with you. Have you always been fascinated by a specific moment in time or a historical event ? Perhaps you wish you could go back in time to experience an event that was particularly impactful for a loved one so that you can understand them better. Or maybe you are passionate about Ancient Egypt or Ancient Greece.

Set the scene and describe the event in detail. Use literary devices such as imagery and metaphors. Then explain why this event is important to you personally. Use the beginning of your essay to share your passion for and knowledge of the subject. Then use the remainder of your essay to explain why you’d like to witness this event.

Emory Essay Prompt 4

Share about a time when you were awestruck..

Are you a thoughtful, reflective person? Do you regularly experience awe or feel inspired by nature, music, etc.? This is a great Emory essay prompt to choose if you can think of a powerful instance of feeling inspired.

Choose a specific instance to focus on. Even if you are routinely inspired by nature, choose a specific memory and describe it in detail. The admission committee wants to know what moves you and where you find inspiration. Then focus on how this instance of inspiration has had a positive impact on your life. Make sure you clearly communicate how your experience of awe changed you.

Emory Essay Prompt 5

Which book, character, song, monologue, or piece of work (fiction or non-fiction) seems made for you why.

This prompt is great for avid readers, musicians, and other creative types. Your connection to this book, character, song, etc.  should feel natural and genuine.

Choose something that holds personal meaning to you. Do not try to choose an “impressive” answer. Start your essay by describing the work in detail and then showing how it connects to your larger personality, interests, and passions.

Emory essays that worked: 3 inspiring Emory essay examples

Thankfully Emory University provides top-tier examples every year of successful Emory secondary essays. In this article we will look at several Emory essay examples and discuss why each of these Emory personal statements is successful. 

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Emory Essay Example 1

My interest in Gender and Sexuality Studies was sparked in my eighth grade Civics class when we studied topics pertaining to sexual equality. I went into the class knowing I believed women had a right to make choices for their own bodies and that view remained the same, but I discovered the complexity of abortion debates. I challenged myself by thinking about the disparity between actual and potential personhood and the moral rights of unconscious lives. If pregnancy had the same consequences for men as it does women, how might the debate be different? Would this debate even exist? 

A year later, I shadowed an OB/GYN at a nearby hospital. On my first shift, I watched an incarcerated woman receive a postpartum exam after giving birth in her cell toilet with just Advil, and the issues discussed in Civics suddenly became urgent and real.

My school projects have often focused on reproductive rights. I’ve spent numerous hours delving into summaries of Supreme Court cases on abortion and contraception, and I’m even known as the “Tampon Fairy” at school because I frequently restock the school bathrooms with tampons and condoms.  

I’m interested in exploring how Gender and Sexuality Studies connect to Public Health and Reproductive Biology, as well as Public Policy and Law. The interdisciplinary nature of this major will allow me to investigate many other areas of study and create a more nuanced understanding of how this particular field interacts with our world and society. 

There is no one “right” way to write successful Emory supplementals. In fact, Emory University says “We encourage you to be thoughtful and not stress about what the right answer might be. We simply want to get to know you better.” A general sense of direction can be helpful, however, so here are some helpful tips to get you started on your Emory essays. 

Why did this essay work?

This essay is concise, contains interesting details, and follows a clear narrative arc. The student shows how she is willing to change her mind and follow her passion in interesting ways. This student is clearly passionate about her course of study and shows a commitment to the subject matter, academically through her research, and personally through their unique actions as the “Tampon Fairy.” This Emory personal statement is detailed, emotional, passionate, and grants the reader insight into the student’s various ways of learning and interacting with the world. 

Emory Essay Example 2

“If You Give a Mouse a Cookie,” the book goes, then the mouse will ask for a glass of milk. If you ask me a question, I’ll answer with another question. 

I’m naturally inquisitive. As a girl, I’d interrogate my parents during 13-hour flights to Beijing: “If we’re traveling to a later time zone, does that mean we’re entering the future?” or “If planes have autopilot, why do we need pilots?” 

Today, my curiosity has transitioned to topics like thermodynamics. Through questioning, I’ve made boring lectures more engaging for me and my peers, while also helping us better internalize the information and develop an appreciation for scientific theories—the ideal gas law and atomic configuration—that help us make sense of our surroundings. 

Questioning my surroundings has allowed me to find my voice in the crowd, letting me step out of my comfort zone while furthering my and my peers’ knowledge.

The opening of this essay is creative and concise. This fictional mouse is known for its dizzying insistence and humor and is an effective cultural touchstone. It hooks the reader, is witty, and demonstrates the student’s personality clearly. Overall, this essay covers a lot of ground in a short amount of space, spanning from childhood to present day. It is humorous, warm, and clearly demonstrates the student’s inquisitive nature and how this will enhance Emory’s academic culture.

Emory Essay Example 3

In 2018, I was eager to see the Senate vote on DACA, an issue I only knew through debate, so I sat in the Senate gallery for 8 hours, surrounded by DREAMers in neon-orange shirts. When Senator McConnell quoted the White House calling the DREAMers unlawful immigrants, we exchanged grimaces. When Senator Schumer listed all he was willing to give up to save DACA, I smiled at the woman next to me. 

As we sat for hours with no food, water, or bathroom breaks, I began to understand the gravity of the issue, realizing the impact 60 people can have on millions, through just one vote. After the government shut down without passing protections for DREAMers, I understood the human impact of our immigration policies. This experience expanded my awareness of the struggle that immigrants go through, and I recognized my responsibility in seeking justice for others. 

This Emory secondary essay hones in on a specific event and shows how the student is willing and able to learn and form new opinions, and apply personal insights to policy. The fact that the student attended this Senate Vote shows that they actively seek out new learning experiences, surround themselves with new people and communities, and are eager to enact change.

Extra tips for a killer Emory supplemental essay

Include lots of details. Try to be as specific as possible. Use precise words. You only have 200 words or less to communicate something important in each of these supplemental essays . Do your best to make each word count . 

Establish a tone. Emory University wants to know who you are, so try your best to convey your personality. Try to write the way you talk. If you’re bubbly and personable, do your best to convey that. If you’re shy and thoughtful, try to communicate that. If you have an interesting sense of humor, use that!

Choose a unique topic or approach your topic in a unique way. You want to be memorable so brainstorm interesting topics or unique ways to structure your essay. For example, if you love theater,  write your essay with stage directions. If you’re involved in orchestra, use music theory vocabulary to discuss something non music-related. Your topic itself could be fairly common and straightforward, but if you have an interesting, unique way of discussing it, you’ll have a better chance of being remembered.

Connect your story with the present. The experience you write about doesn’t necessarily have to be recent, but try to convey how your experiences continue to have meaning in the present. The admission committee wants to know how you learn, grow, and create meaning. 

Key takeaways on Emory essays

There are lots of factors to consider when writing a successful Emory supplemental. There are countless decisions to make about your topic, which Emory essay prompt to choose, vocabulary, style, etc. but there are also some more logistical questions to consider. In the following section, we will go over some of these frequently asked questions and answers.

Emory requires 2 supplemental essays . The first essay is academic-focused and is 200 words. The second essay is more reflective and should grant the admissions committee insight into your personality. Emory supplemental essays give you the opportunity to make your application stand out and be memorable.

Emory University is a test-optional school that allows students to either self-report or send official score reports. The test-optional application component, along with the two ways of reporting is meant to increase student accessibility. The writing portion of the SAT is also optional for this reason. 

Emory supplemental essay prompts come out during the summer, typically around the end of June. The first essay prompt , however, is always the same: What academic areas are you interested in exploring in college? The five essay prompts for the “ getting to know you ” essay vary year to year. Past essay prompts , however, can help you begin brainstorming before the prompts are available. Check the Emory website to stay up to date. 

Think outside the box! How can you be creative while still being genuine? If your essay is gimmicky, the admissions staff will know. Authenticity is key. There are lots of ways to stand out. Think about what makes you unique and brainstorm from there. The possibilities are endless!

Emory University is a highly-selective institution with an 18% acceptance rate . Lots of qualified students apply, but there are only so many available slots. Emory supplemental essays give you a chance to stand out from your peers by sharing who you are as a person and what you care about. Choose your essay question carefully; ideally, choose a prompt that differs from your common app college essay . 

• November 10, 2020
• 12th Grade , College Admissions

How to Write Emory Supplemental Essays: 2022-23 Guide

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College Essays

Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Emory University is a prestigious private university ranked within the top 25 universities nationwide . To apply here, you'll have to submit your transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and a few essays. But what do you actually have to write for your Emory essays?

Below, we present to you this year's Emory University essay prompts and offer you tips for figuring out which prompts you should choose for your application. We will also look at admissions officers' feedback for real Emory essays that worked.

Let's get started!

Feature Image: Nrbelex /Wikimedia Commons

What Are the Emory Essays?

All first-year applicants to Emory must submit one longer essay in response to either the Common Application or Coalition Application essay prompts and two short answers as part of the Emory supplement . For the first Emory essay, you must respond to the single prompt provided, and for the second essay, you can choose any one of the five prompts listed.

Here are the Emory University essay prompts for the 2022-23 application cycle:

Academics Essay (200 words max)

What academic areas are you interested in exploring in college?

Reflections Essay: Respond to one of the following (150 words max)

Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness.

When was the last time you questioned something that you had thought to be true?

If you could witness a historic event (past, present, or future) first-hand, what would it be, and why?

Share a time when you were awestruck.

Which book, character, song, monologue, or piece of work (fiction or non-fiction) seems made for you? Why?

Fortunately, Emory offers a little advice on how you should answer these essay prompts: "We encourage you to be thoughtful and not stress about what the right answer might be. We simply want to get to know you better."

Now, let's take a closer look at each of the Emory University essay prompts.

How to Write the Emory Academics Essay

This is standard college essay prompt, asking you to elaborate on your academic plans. Emory is asking this because they want to get a better understanding of what you plan on studying in college and why you're excited about it. Students who have a solid plan for college and are genuinely passionate about their academics are more likely to do well in college and after graduation, and they're more likely to be involved on campus and give back as an alum.

As a reminder, this prompt is required for all applicants, and you can write up to 200 words.

So, what should you write about? Start with describing the academic area(s) you plan on focusing on in college. Then, dive into it more. If you want to major in biology, what areas of biology are you most interested in? What about these topics excites you? What career are you hoping to pursue with a biology degree? Are there internships/research opportunities you hope to do? You don't need to include all those parts, but be sure to give an in-depth answer that makes it clear what your academic interests and plans are.

But what if you don't know what you want to study? That's OK; this isn't a binding document that requires you to follow up on what you write about. Choose an area or areas that you're thinking about, and go with that. Don't write that you have no idea what you're going to study because that can cause Emory to worry that you won't be interested in your studies/won't be able to commit to anything.

How to Write the "Reflections" Emory Essay

For this essay, you'll have to select one prompt to answer (out of five possible prompts). These prompts are pretty varied, but they all ask you to reflect on something meaningful to you and that has helped you become the person you are today , whether that's an experience you had, an insight you gained, or a field you're passionate about.

As a reminder, your essay must be no longer than 150 words.

Now then, let's go through the "Reflection" Emory University essay prompts one at a time and give you tips on how to answer each of them effectively.

"Reflections" Emory Essay Prompt 1: Cultural Sensitivity

Emory is a competitive school and admits students from all over the world. In order to be a good member of the Emory community, you'll need to understand and thrive in a diverse environment. To that end, this essay gives you the opportunity to showcase your cultural sensitivity.

But what is cultural awareness? The National Center for Cultural Competence defines cultural awareness as "being cognizant, observant, and conscious of similarities and differences among and between cultural groups." So to answer this prompt, you'll have to share an experience where your understanding of cultural awareness grew.

A good place to start is to think about your experiences with people from different cultures. When have you been in this situation before? And what did you learn?

On the other hand, you may be a member of a cultural minority in the United States. If you are, this would be a great prompt to talk about how that has impacted you, and how that has shaped your own unique understanding of how cultural awareness works in American society.

Regardless of which strategy you choose, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to learn from others and your capacity to be thoughtful about your own actions. The kiss of death for this prompt? Bragging. No one is perfectly culturally aware: developing our cultural sensitivity is a lifetime process. Acting like you've got it all figured out isn't going to impress anyone, especially admissions counselors.

Should You Choose This Prompt?

Do you have a good understanding of diversity and what it means to be "culturally sensitive"? This goes beyond just knowing the definitions of these terms. Have you had experiences where diversity played a key role? You'll need real, first-hand experience if you want to tackle this prompt well. If you haven't had that, then this might not be the best prompt for you.

Tips for Answering This Prompt

• Be honest and specific about your experience. Do not make something up to try and answer this prompt! Additionally, make sure you're being honest about the experience in general. Don't try and make yourself into the "hero" of the situation. Instead, admissions counselors want to see that you can be thoughtful about cultural differences, and that you've learned something about being part of a diverse community.
• Explain how this will make you a better Emory student. Like we mentioned earlier, Emory is a diverse campus. How will you bring what you've learned about cultural awareness to Emory? Explain how what you've learned has prepared you for your Emory experience, and touch on how your experience will help you be a better member of the Emory community.

"Reflections" Emory Essay Prompt 2: Questioning Beliefs

Emory uses this question to get to know more about your opinions and how you have learned to think more objectively .

In other words, the admissions committee wants to see how you have become more open-minded and that you are ready and willing to explore outside your safe comfort zone. Are you intellectually curious? Are you willing to admit when you're wrong?

This is the type of student Emory is looking for—someone who can be honest and open with themselves , who is introspective and always willing to learn.

If you can easily think of a time when you questioned any major beliefs you used to hold—whether it was something religious, political, or otherwise highly personal—this would be a great prompt to choose for your first Emory essay.

For example, maybe you used to eat meat but became a vegetarian after visiting a slaughterhouse as part of a school trip.

Or maybe you used to think that libraries were completely useless and should simply go away. But after getting help from a kind librarian one day, you realized that libraries are necessary to have in society, especially considering that people of lower-income backgrounds typically do not have easy access to computers, books, and other repositories of knowledge.

• Follow a clear structure. Present what you used to believe, explain what or who caused you to question this belief, and finally clarify how this process has (positively) impacted you.
• Focus on a unique moment from your life. Don't just talk about how you used to believe in Santa Claus and eventually grew out of it—most, if not all, of us have had similar experiences. Try to find something unique to you and that will set you apart from other applicants.
• Think beyond religion and spirituality. It's not inherently bad to write an essay about how you used to practice a certain religion and now practice another one or none at all, but don't feel limited to only topics regarding faith or religion just because this prompt is asking about your beliefs!

"Tell Us About You" Emory Essay Prompt 3: Historic Event

This next Emory essay prompt is a fun and interesting way for admissions officers to get a clearer sense of what your interests, passions, and values are .

There are no limits to what you can put down here—you could focus on a big event from as recent as the late 20th century, such as the fall of the Berlin Wall, or something that happened thousands of years ago, such as the building of the great Egyptian pyramids.

Your goal should be to choose something that highlights a critical aspect of your personality and/or interests.

For instance, perhaps you want to minor in architectural studies, which is why you're so fascinated with how the pyramids were constructed. Or maybe your mother was present when the Berlin Wall fell and you'd love to have seen her expression of joy at having helped reunite her country.

Is there a specific moment from the past that you have always wished to see because it genuinely interests, excites, or fascinates you? Is there a certain event from history that means something special to you and/or your family, and that you wish you could have actually been there for?

If you answered yes to one of these questions, then this would be a great prompt to choose for your second Emory essay.

• Describe the event in detail. Before you jump into the "why" part of your essay, take care to set up the details of the scene by using literary devices such as images and metaphors. Doing this will show admissions officers that you're passionate about both this event and the details of how it happened.
• Clearly and cogently explain why this event is so important to you on a personal level. Once you've set up your essay with some details of the event, it's time to dive into the "why" with full force. A historic event could be special to you for a number of reasons: for example, maybe you've got a burning desire to study physics at Emory after learning about the Wright brothers' first successful flight.
• Try to find a more positive or empowering event. While it's not off the table to write about horrible (but important to know) things that have happened, such as the assassination of JFK or the Holocaust, make sure you manage to tie this back to yourself in a meaningful, positive way. For example, maybe you've always felt that witnessing the Holocaust with your own eyes could help you better relate to your great-grandparents who suffered through it.

"Reflections" Emory Essay Prompt 4: Awe

The purpose of this essay prompt is for the admissions committee to understand what really moves you.

To answer this prompt, think back to the times when you were overcome with a sense of wonder or awe. Did it happen when you reached the summit of a long hike and stared at the vista surrounding you? Or when you heard a particular piece of music for the first time? Or when you traveled to a new city that's nothing like your hometown?

As you think about what to write about here, remember that the most powerful answers will involve telling a story of some kind. Let's say you were awestruck the first time you got a clear view of the Milky Way Galaxy. You were ten years old, on a camping trip with your dad, and, since you'd grown up in the city, you'd never seen so many stars before. The sight of all of them made you appreciate the vastness of the universe, and ever since you've had a passion for outer space. Including those details will make your essay more memorable and unique to you.

As you tell the story, always remember to connect it to the most important part of your essay: your discussion of who you are as a person and what about you makes you a good fit for Emory.  In this example, you could say that you use that memory to remind yourself you're just a single person in a vast place, and it helps you stay humble and put your challenges into perspective.

This prompt is great for people who've experienced awe that caused some sort of change in their lives . If you're a thoughtful person who can reflect on that experience in positive ways, then this prompt is a good fit for you!

• Pick one experience and focus on that. Even if you regularly feel awe when you fly in an airplane, pick one specific example and focus on that for this essay. Discussing a single experience will make it easier for you to tell a story as well as keep within the wordcount for this essay. 
• Think about the long-term impact it had on you. In the moment you felt awe, but what were the lasting impacts of the experience? How did feeling awestruck convince you to change yourself/your plans/your view of the world? Emory wants to see the bigger picture in all of this, so make sure you include that in your essay. 

"Reflections" Emory Essay Prompt 5: Artistic Representation

The point of this prompt is for Emory to get a clearer, more holistic sense of not just who you are, but also how you see yourself. What qualities do you feel represent your personality? Your goals? Your best traits? Your challenges?

Remember that you should aim to tell the admissions committee something new and unique about yourself that they haven't yet gleaned from your application or other essays.

When thinking of how a piece of art represents you, don't think literally—try to go beyond generic and superficial traits and think about the deeper meaning and symbolism that speaks to you.

For example, maybe you've always felt a strong connection to the character of Forrest Gump—not because you literally fought in a war, started a restaurant, and met the president, but because you were always supported by your family, especially your mom, and believed that your optimism and positive outlook is what ultimately helped you attain some of your biggest goals in life so far.

My recommendation is to choose this prompt only if you can immediately come up with a specific piece of art or character you've always felt a strong personal attachment to. Remember that it's not just about something you like but something that truly gets across the essence of who you are .

If nothing comes to mind right away, it's probably best to go with another prompt. You don't want to write this essay and have it feel heavily forced or contrived!

• Choose a topic that emphasizes your most prominent and best qualities. Obviously, you don't want to compare yourself to something or someone that's notoriously corrupt, bigoted, immoral, mean, or unlikable. The point here is to show the Emory admissions committee key positive traits you have, such as your selflessness or ability to see the best in everyone.
• Avoid exaggeration. No matter how strong of a connection you might feel to Batman, your life is most certainly not a carbon copy of his. Don't hyperbolize any traits you (think you) share with your character or art piece by making ridiculous claims, such as how you're a real-life superhero or secret genius.
• Don't just choose something because it's famous or "impressive." If you've never actually read Great Expectations or have but never had any real connection to it, Emory admissions officers will be able to tell. So don't worry—it's OK to pick something that's less well-known or not very intellectual or scholarly, just as long as you can cogently explain how this piece of art or character encapsulates you .

Admissions Feedback for Emory Essays That Worked

One thing that can really help you while applying to Emory is seeing examples of real Emory essays that worked and secured students admission. Fortunately, the official Emory website has an entire series dedicated to going over their applicants' best personal essays .

The downside is that these are all for the Common App/Coalition App essay prompts, so they are a lot longer and do not respond directly to any of the short-answer supplemental questions above.

Still, you can use these essay examples and their feedback from admissions officers to get a better sense of what to write about, how you can effectively structure your thoughts, and what Emory is ultimately hoping to learn about you through your writing .

We've consolidated the most important ideas from admissions officers' feedback for you. Here's a basic overview of what Emory is looking for in your essays:

• "Expressive language," "interesting vocabulary," and showing instead of telling
• A sense of maturity
• Clear connections between your interests, experiences, and/or goals
• Authenticity
• The ability to reflect on your experiences (and learn from them)
• Either a unique topic or a unique approach to a more common topic

Make sure your Emory essays have most (ideally all!) of these essential qualities.

How to Write the Emory Essays: 4 Essential Tips

Here are four tips to keep in mind as you write your Emory University supplemental essays.

#1: Write Concisely

You have just 200 and 150 words for the supplemental Emory essays, so don't waste space— include only the most essential facts and information you want to present to the admissions committee .

Use these essays as an opportunity to practice writing more succinctly. Take your time to try to cut out any irrelevant or ineffective words or phrases that don't answer the prompt or reveal anything important or unique about you.

#2: Be Highly Specific

Don't make the mistake many students make by not being specific enough in your college essays—especially considering how little space you have for the Emory essays!

The trick here is to not dawdle in your writing : get straight to the point and overarching topic of your essay, and then dive right in so that you're fully answering the question.

To truly make your writing come alive, you must home in on the most essential info about yourself. Use examples, anecdotes, and plenty of details to paint an accurate picture of who you are and how you see yourself.

#3: Avoid Repeating Yourself

You have to write two short essays for the Emory supplement and one longer essay in response to one of the Common App or Coalition App prompts. Because some of these Emory University essay prompts are similar to the Common App/Coalition App ones, you'll want to check that you're not repeating anything you already wrote .

The point of all these essays is to give you the chance to introduce a range of different, but equally important, sides of yourself. Repeating yourself shows a lack of creative thinking and will most certainly not leave a good impression on the Emory admissions committee.

#4: Don't Forget to Proofread

Last, but certainly not least, remember to edit and proofread your Emory essays several times before you submit them with your application.

Once you've got a rough draft finished, put it away and don't look at it. After a few days, take it out and reread it, looking for areas that feel out of place, irrelevant, or unclear, and tweak as needed.

Lastly, give your draft to someone you trust , such as a teacher or parent, and have them read it over and give you some feedback. Ask them to also correct it for any technical or stylistic errors.

Do all this and you should have one unforgettable Emory essay ready to go!

What's Next?

Curious about what it takes to get into Emory as a freshman? Check out our Emory admission requirements page to learn the average GPA and SAT/ACT scores of admitted applicants.

Interested in applying to colleges in the South? Our expert guide walks you through all the very best schools in the South, including Emory .

Did you know that Emory University is one of a select number of schools that offers full-ride scholarships? To see even more colleges that do this, take a look at our complete list .

Hannah received her MA in Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California. From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel.

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Emory University Supplemental Essays Guide: 2021-2022

Not sure how to approach the Emory essay prompts? CollegeAdvisor.com’s guide to the Emory supplemental essays will show you exactly how to write engaging Emory supplemental essays and maximize your chances of admission. If you need help answering the Emory University essay prompts, create your  free account  or  schedule a no-cost advising consultation  by calling  (844) 343-6272 .

Emory  Essay Guide Quick Facts:

• Emory has an acceptance rate of 19.0%— U.S. News  ranks Emory as a  highly selective  school.
• In addition to your personal statement, there are  two  Emory supplemental essays you will need to complete. The first of the Emory essay prompts asks about your academic interests. The second asks you to choose from five additional Emory essay prompts so the admissions team can get to know you better.

Does Emory Require Supplemental Essays?

Yes. In addition to your  Common App  or  Coalition App  personal statement, you will also need to answer two shorter Emory essay prompts. Along with your personal statement, extracurriculars, and academic history, your Emory supplemental essays play a key role in sharing who you are with the admissions team. Be sure to take your time with each Emory University essay and consider how the topics you choose enhance your application narrative.

Need some help writing your Common App essay? Get great tips from our Common App essay  guide .

What are the Emory Supplemental Essays?

There are  two  school-specific Emory supplemental essays in the 2021-2022 application. Both Emory University essay prompts are  required , meaning you must complete both Emory University essay prompts to submit your application. While the first of the Emory University essay prompts is the same for all applicants, the second asks you to choose your own prompt.

To complete your Emory supplemental essays, you will need to take some time to decide which Emory essay prompt will best showcase who you are, what matters to you, and why you’d be a good fit for Emory.

How do I Write the Emory Supplemental Essays?

Let’s break down the Emory University essay prompts!

The Emory supplemental essays allow you to use your own voice to show your readers who you are as a person. Neither of the Emory essay prompts explicitly asks, “Why Emory?”; however, each of your responses should answer this question. When they read your Emory supplemental essays, the admissions team should be able to imagine you on their campus.

Now, as you begin considering the Emory essay prompts think about the picture you want to paint for your readers. What is important to you? Why is Emory the best place for you to continue pursuing your passions? Don’t worry if you don’t feel you’ve found your “passion” quite yet. Remember, college is all about exploring and cultivating your interests. Most importantly, your Emory supplemental essays should reveal your potential to make an impact on Emory’s campus, even if you don’t have a clear set of goals.

Make some lists

If you’re having trouble coming up with something to write about for your Emory application essay, try making two bulleted lists: “What Do I Think About” and “Characteristics of Me.” This is only a brainstorm, so include everything that comes to mind. What do you think about your stamp collection? Your dance class routines? Do you have a favorite subject in school? Are there certain aspects of your identity you have a strong connection to?

Then, turn to your own characteristics. Are you independent? Do you like doing research? Do you love collaboration? Once you have these lists side by side, look for ideas that connect with one another. Use this brainstorm as a way to consider not only  what  you will write about but  how  it connects to you.

We have provided the 2021-2022 Emory University essay  prompts  below. You’ll find a breakdown of how to approach each Emory University essay in addition to your personal statement. We’ll also discuss tips for writing Emory supplemental essays that will help you stand out in admissions.

Emory Supplemental Essays – Question 1 (Required)

What academic areas are you interested in exploring in college? (200 words or less).

The first Emory application essay is about your  academic interests . When writing this Emory essay, remember to stay in the realm of  academics . Even if you are passionate about activities outside of the classroom—like athletics or the arts—you’ll want to spend this essay describing your academic engagements. In general, ground your essay in a few academic disciplines and build from there. For example, if you’re interested in Astronomy, you might focus your Emory application essay on specific classes, student groups, or research opportunities related to this topic.

Your first step in writing your Emory University essay is to pick your academic area(s) of interest. Start by looking at Emory’s list of  majors, minors, and programs . For example, if you are passionate about painting, look at the Art History Department’s  website  to see what topics and classes that Emory offers excite you. If you are interested in writing, explore Emory’s pages on English, English and creative writing, English and history, and playwriting to see which program best fits your interests.

Remember, you only have 200 words in this Emory essay. Consequently, you’ll want to be clear and concise in your response. Even if you brainstorm a list and find ten areas of study that excite you, pick two or three areas to focus on in your Emory application essay. This will let you tell a story in your Emory University essay rather than simply listing your interests. Once you have picked your topic(s), think about  why  these academic areas interest you,  what  you hope to learn about them, and  why  Emory is the right place for you to do so.

Emory Essay Draft Key Questions:

• Does my response highlight an area of study Emory offers classes in?
• Do I reflect my genuine interests in my Emory essay?
• Does my response answer the questions of why am I interested, what do I hope to learn, and why is Emory the place to do it?

Emory Supplemental Essays – Question 2 (Required)

Answer one of the following questions (in 150 words or less):

1. Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness.

2. When was the last time you questioned something you had thought to be true?

3. If you could witness a historic event (past, present, or future) first-hand, what would it be, and why?

4. Share about a time when you were awestruck.

5. Which book, character, song, monologue, or piece of work (fiction or non-fiction) seems made for you? Why?

On closer inspection, the second Emory application essay is about  getting to know you . Unlike the first Emory supplemental essay, this Emory essay prompt allows you to select your own question. Take advantage of this opportunity—spend time with each of the Emory essay prompts and select the one that most engages you. When considering topics, remember to review your other essays and think about how you can share something new!

However, if the thought of picking just one of these Emory essay prompts seems daunting, try a timed freewrite, or brainstorming session. To begin, write out five lists: “cultural awareness,” “questioned truth,” “historic event,” “awestruck,” and “art made for you.” Then, take five minutes with each list and write out anything that comes to mind. Feel free to just write a few words or go more in-depth with your bullets and add details. In less than thirty minutes, you should have a substantial list of potential Emory essays.

As you narrow down your ideas to respond to the Emory University essay prompts, consider how your topic can share something important about you as a person. In general, the best Emory essays will be the most authentic. For example, if you decide to write your Emory essay for Prompt #5 about a book or character, be sure to focus on the words “ made for you .” Even if you really like a character from your favorite TV show, think about what that character really means to you.

Affirm and/or change

If you’re having trouble finding a deeper, personal connection to your Emory University essay topic, ask yourself this question: does this thing or experience  affirm  or  change  who I am or how I see the world? Following the example of Prompt #5, does this character affirm something about my identity? Did they change my perception of myself? Do we have a shared experience? Did they show me a new way of thinking?

No matter what prompt you select for your second Emory University essay, keep the 150-word limit in mind. If you are having trouble staying under the world limit, consider how to make your sentences more concise. For example, instead of repeating the prompt in your response and starting with “____ is a character that was made for me,” try diving straight into the  why  in your topic sentence and elaborating from there.

• Does my response reflect something important to me?
• Do I address the specific question asked in the selected prompt?
• Does my response tell a story of my change and growth?
• Do I avoid repeating information found elsewhere in my application?

How Important are Emory’s Supplemental Essays?

The Emory supplemental essays are extremely important to your application. Overall, the university will consider your Emory supplemental essays alongside your transcript, personal statement, and extracurricular activities before they turn to your standardized test scores. While it’s a good idea to remember that the essays are just one part of your application, you’ll want to make them as strong as possible to build the most compelling candidate profile. In fact, if you are applying with lower test scores, it is especially important you take your time with each Emory application essay and make sure your final draft is personal and polished.

Emory Essay Quick Tips:

• Write in your own voice! Don’t focus on what you think Emory wants to hear. Instead, focus on being honest and truthful to your experiences.
• Think about what makes you interested in the world, then choose the Emory University essay prompts that helps you best tell your story.
• Proofread, proofread, proofread! If you can, ask a guardian, a counselor, or another mentor to read over your Emory supplemental essays for spelling, grammar, and clarity.

Is there an Emory Personal Statement?

No, there is no dedicated Emory personal statement. However, students who apply through the Common App or Coalition App will have to complete a  Common App  or  Coalition App  essay. This is the longest and most substantial essay Emory application essay.

When considering potential students, Emory’s admissions team looks for high achievers that want to change the world. As you begin brainstorming your Emory supplemental essays and personal statement, think about what kind of story you can tell that will show admissions what you are curious about and how that drives you to action.

Additional Tips for Writing Emory Supplemental Essays and Personal Statements:

To help prospective students, Emory’s Admissions Committee reviews Personal Statements written by current Emory students and highlights why they worked.

Below, you’ll find some tips to help you craft your personal statement. Keep in mind that every Personal Statement and Emory University essay will be different, so don’t panic if these tips don’t apply to your chosen topics. However, as you examine the Emory essay prompts, keep this advice in mind.

Let’s dive in!

Demonstrate your unshakeable curiosity

One trait that Admissions will look for in every Emory essay is curiosity. Your Emory application essay should illustrate what drives your desire to learn more about the world around you. Think about the extracurriculars you love or the classes that most interest you: Why are you drawn to them? How do these different elements of your application relate to one another? Are there similarities that show a common pattern in your thinking, or do you use a variety of approaches to different aspects of your life?

To start, make a list of the classes, sports, clubs, and activities included elsewhere in your application. Then, circle the ones where you feel most successful, motivated, and/or excited. Remember, this Emory University essay is your chance to show admissions  why  these things matter to you. If the interest you choose does not appear elsewhere in your application—like your love of fantasy novels or your interest in astronomy—that’s okay, too! If you have a strong connection to it, it will make a great topic for your Emory essay.

In their feedback for one of the example Emory application essays, the admissions team highlights how the writer communicated their desire to make a positive change in the world. As you craft your Emory University essay, recall Emory’s mission: to use knowledge to serve humanity. Once you have decided on a topic for your Emory University essay, think about why you are curious about it and how that curiosity fits into the bigger picture.

When approaching your prompts, consider telling your story in a progression: what are you curious about, how are you influenced by your curiosity, and how does your willingness to pursue this curiosity impact the world?

Describe a time your perspective shifted

Many successful Emory application essays highlight an important element of their university’s culture: community. As you review example Emory supplemental essays, notice how writers address the relationship between their own interiority and the communities they occupy. Successful Emory University essays offer the admissions team a glimpse of how a student’s community has influenced their beliefs; these essays then allow readers to imagine what this student would bring to Emory’s community.

Make a list of the communities and people that are important to you. What role do you play in these communities? How have these communities impacted you? How have you, in turn, impacted these communities?

Emory’s essays that focus on community, however, do present some challenges. As you answer the Emory University essay prompts, while you can talk about other people and experiences, make sure to center the bulk of your essay around you. Once you’ve completed a draft, write out a summary of how each paragraph connects to you. Think to yourself, how does this section of my essay reflect my curiosity? Something I’ve learned? A perspective I will bring with me into the future? Remember, if it doesn’t show Emory something about who you are, you may not need it in your essay.

If you’d like to see more examples of exceptional Emory personal statements and why they work, check out Emory’s Inside Admissions  blog .

Emory Supplemental Essays: Final Thoughts

As you work on your Emory Supplemental Essays, remember that they are part of a holistic application. Admissions will use your Emory essays and other materials to create a full picture of who you are and why you’d be an asset to Emory. You should view each Emory University essay, including your Common App Personal Statement, as complementary pieces that work together to tell the story of you. As you think about why Emory is the right school for you, allow yourself time to sit with the Emory University essay prompts, think about what is most important to you, and let your personality shine through!

If answering these Emory essay prompts seems like a challenge, remember that starting is the hardest part. The best thing you can do for yourself is to start early. This gives you the benefit of time to ensure your Emory supplemental essays are focused and clear. Give yourself enough time to write, rewrite, edit, and polish each of your responses to the Emory essay prompts.

This 2021-2022 essay guide on Emory University was written by Stefanie Tedards, Northwestern ‘17. For more CollegeAdvisor.com resources on Emory, click  here . Want help crafting your Emory supplemental essays? Create your free  account  or  schedule a no-cost advising consultation  by calling (844) 343-6272.

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September 10, 2023

2023-2024 Emory University Supplemental Essay Prompts

Emory University has released its supplemental essay prompts for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle . In addition to The Common Application ’s Personal Statement, applicants to Emory’s Class of 2028 are asked to respond to two 150-word short-answer essay prompts. So, what are this year’s prompts? Let’s dive in!

2023-2024 Emory University Essay Topics and Questions

Academic interests essay.

It’s recommended that students write about 150 words to respond to the first prompt, which is required:

What academic areas are you interested in exploring at Emory University and why?

This prompt is a hybrid question: Why Major and Why College . For the first part of the essay prompt, it would behoove applicants to articulate to Emory’s admissions committee why they wish to study what they wish to study by sharing the origin story of their interest in this discipline. The origin story should always take place during a candidate’s high school years. Too often, students focus on stories that stem from their childhood.

For the second part of the essay prompt, it’s all about capturing specifics about why Emory is the place to pursue this course of study. Too many applicants choose to name-drop professors and list classes in Why College essay prompts when they should instead capture the enduring specifics of a course of study at a school — the research, the programs and institutes, the design of the curriculum, and more. If a sentence in this second half of the essay can apply to another school, it should be deleted.

Getting to Know You Essay Prompts

Applicants must also write a response to one of the following six essay prompts in a recommended length of 150 words.

1. Which book, character, song, monologue, or piece of work (fiction or non-fiction) seems made for you? Why?

We would always prefer students showcase their intellectual curiosity in a short answer like this one. As such, choosing to write about a book (one that ideally is not required reading in classrooms around the world) is always preferred to choosing a song, film, or television series. Wouldn’t it be nice to showcase to Emory’s admissions committee that an applicant reads for pleasure?

2. Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness.

Emory’s admissions committee wants to see that applicants have convictions but are also malleable to changing those convictions when presented with differing viewpoints. That’s the beauty of attending a school with a liberal arts curriculum and a diverse student body like Emory. The anecdote an applicant shares in this response should thus showcase the student’s intellectual curiosity as well as open mind.

3. Emory University aspires for all students to flourish on campus. Reflect on what flourishing at Emory means to you.

For this short answer, students can write about virtually anything, though — again — it would behoove them to tell a story highlighting their intellectual curiosity. It could be flourishing through an activity. It could be flourishing through reading an entire shelf of literature on a hot summer afternoon. 

4. Emory University’s unique mission calls for service to humanity. Share how you might personally contribute to this mission of service to humanity.

Too many college applicants feature activities in their Common Application activities section that make it seem like they’re trying to impress admissions officers with what good citizens they are. Too many college applicants think that by volunteering for a lot of hours, it’ll showcase their humanity. But that’s simply  not  how elite college admissions works. Admissions officers want to see a depth of involvement related to a student’s hook. If a student is interested in political science, let’s see how they serve their community by addressing unlevel sidewalks on the streets of their town.

In short, in this answer, it would behoove applicants to tell a small story here — ideally backed up with an activity in their activities section — that shows how they’re acting locally, even if they are thinking globally. 

5. Emory University has a strong commitment to building community. Tell us about a community that you have been part of where your participation helped to change or shape the community for the better.

Here’s Emory’s community essay. In the wake of the United States Supreme Court ruling outlawing Affirmative Action , many universities included community or background questions on this year’s application — to capitalize on the loophole Chief Justice John Roberts penned in the majority opinion.

In that opinion, Chief Justice Roberts wrote, “Nothing in this opinion should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicant’s discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise.”

Students need not be underrepresented minorities to answer this essay prompt. They can instead focus on their faith, hometown, fellow mathematicians, or just about anything so long as they showcase small moves they made to make these groups they consider community stronger.

6. Reflection is a central tenet of Emory University’s values. Craft a personal email providing advice to yourself in your first year of high school.

This essay offers applicants an opportunity to showcase how they hope to contribute to Emory during their first year. While it’s not a Why Emory essay, it’s a chance to pepper in some specifics that applicants didn’t get to include in the first essay, which focused more on academics at Emory. For this essay, as an example, applicants could instead concentrate on extracurriculars or school traditions. 

Ideally, applicants will highlight how they’re contributing the singular hook they’ve hopefully expressed on their application — rather than well-roundedness — to clarify to Emory’s admissions committee how they’ll make Emory stronger.

Ivy Coach’s Assistance with Emory Essays

If you’re interested in optimizing your case for admission to Emory, complete Ivy Coach ’s free consultation form , and we’ll be in touch to outline our college counseling services for applicants to the Class of 2028.

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Emory University 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Early Decision: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 1

You Have: 

Emory University 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 1 essay of 200 words, 1 essay of 150 words Supplemental Essay Type: Why , Oddball

Academic Interests

What academic areas are you interested in exploring in college (200 words).

This required prompt is nothing more or less than an academically inclined Why essay. As you dig into the writing, aim to answer these two key questions: (1) What do you love about the subject? (2) How does Emory’s specific program meet your needs or excite your curiosity? In other words, your goal is not just to geek out (although that’s highly encouraged!), but also to demonstrate your fit for Emory specifically. If you can display a knowledge or curiosity for your chosen major alongside some school-specific facts, you’ll show admissions that you’re motivated and dedicated to their institution. If that’s not a winning combo, we don’t know what is! So, before you start scribbling away (or pounding out 300 words on your computer), remember that the backbone of any good Why essay is research! Give yourself some time to dig through the Emory website and get to know your department as well as any related programs, centers, and opportunities.

Getting to Know You

In addition, answer one of the following questions. Your response should be no more than 150 words.

Which book, character, song, monologue, or piece of work (fiction or non-fiction) seems made for you? Why?

In this prompt, Emory University is looking for more than just a summary of your favorite book. Admissions wants to know why a certain work of art is meaningful to you, and how it connects to your identity, history, or values. As with all supplemental essays, your goal should be to use this prompt as an opportunity to tell admissions something new about yourself through your relationship to a particular piece of art. Does “ Still I Rise ” by Maya Angelou resonate with you as a young woman of color overcoming obstacles with courage and determination? Have you always felt that you and Allison from The Breakfast Club were cut from the same cloth? How come? Be careful to avoid self-aggrandizing or pandering choices rather than writing about works that truly speak to you. Don’t write about Charlotte Brontë unless you genuinely feel connected to her life and work. When you give admissions insight into the art that you feel is representative of your personality, experiences, or background, you will be revealing a fascinating, newfound piece of the complex puzzle that is you.

Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness.

Emory wants to accept applicants that are curious, open-minded, and socially aware. Admissions wants to bring students to campus who will not be afraid to question their own beliefs or biases, or to strive to consider different perspectives and points of view. So, how have you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness? Maybe you saw Juneteenth trending on Twitter this summer and had never heard of it before. Did you read articles to educate yourself? Reach out to friends or family members who were celebrating? What did you learn? Perhaps one of your friends put the kibosh on a joke you told during a Zoom party, so you took it upon yourself to better understand the subject matter and why your joke may have been insensitive or offensive. All of us are constantly learning and growing, so there’s no shame in being wrong about something as long as you seek to listen, retain information, and expand your horizons.

Emory University aspires for all students to flourish on campus. Reflect on what flourishing at Emory means to you.

This is another variation of the Why Essay . In this case, Emory wants you to discuss the aspects of campus life that you feel will help you become your best self. To ace this question, you’ll need to do some self-reflection and research. How do you think college life will change you for the better? Spend some time on the school’s website researching the campus, academic programs, and student culture. Is there a certain theme community that speaks to you? Are there clubs, religious organizations, or volunteer groups that you’re excited to join? Maybe the city of Atlanta holds a special attraction? Remember to keep the essay focused on “flourishing.” How do you interpret that word? Does it mean being academically successful? Becoming a leader in student government or a fraternity? Embracing your authentic self? How will your experiences at Emory facilitate this flourishing and prepare you for life after college?

Emory University’s core mission calls for service to humanity. Share how you might personally contribute to this mission.

Service to humanity” can sound lofty and intimidating, but fear not! Emory’s not expecting you to cure cancer or invent perpetual motion; “service to humanity” can be as simple and personal as tutoring other students at the writing center, running psychology experiments in a lab class, or using your History major to educate your roommates about internment camps. We recommend—say it with us—research! How will your time at Emory prepare you to serve humanity when you leave? Check out the website to see if there are service groups or volunteer organizations you might join on campus; maybe there’s a special capstone project for your proposed major. And if you do plan to cure cancer, write about that, too!

Emory University has a strong commitment to building community. Tell us about a community you have been part of where your participation helped to change or shape the community for the better.

This is a classic Community Essay, through and through. Admissions wants to know what or who has made you into the person you are today and how you have impacted your community. First of all, let us remind you that your “community” can be just about anything, from your neighborhood to your family to your Taylor Swift fan club. Pick a community that means something to you and in which you’ve been very involved. Maybe you come from a tiny town where you revived a long-lost harvest festival tradition. Perhaps you suggested team-building exercises for your baseball team that brought you all closer together. Maybe you started cooking a weekly pancake breakfast for your younger siblings after your parents got divorced. No matter your starting point, be sure you tell a clear story with a beginning, middle, and end. It might be tempting to pen a vivid description of your community and leave it at that, but the point of an essay like this is to tell a story about you and your contributions.

Reflection is a central tenet of Emory University’s values. Craft a personal email giving advice to yourself in your first year of high school.

Emory wants to see how you’ve grown and matured over the last three or so years. The transition from middle school to high school can be almost as daunting as the transition from high school to college. Think back to eighth grade and what aspects of high school either scared you or surprised you. Maybe you worried about getting lost navigating a larger school building. Perhaps you thought biology would be a piece of cake and it was unexpectedly challenging. Maybe you were afraid to be your authentic self until you found an Anime Club where you met like-minded friends. Perhaps you moved to a huge school and encountered people with different backgrounds, beliefs, or opinions. Now that you’ve lived through it, what would you tell your younger self that would help ease those tough transitions? Try to give yourself as much time as possible to reflect on your mindset back in middle school and how it’s changed over the last few years. As always, it’s your job to tell admissions a story, one that reveals information about who you are, what you care about, and/or what inspires you. 

About Kat Stubing

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Emory Supplemental Essay Examples for

These Emory supplemental essay examples will give you some good insights into what Emory is looking for in their essays. Oftentimes, just reading up on college essay tips can be useful, but this can be augmented by taking a look at existing essays to see how they are put together.

So, while you’re perusing Common App essay examples , you might want to consider some that are more pointedly directed at your school of choice – in this case, Emory – to know how to specifically approach Emory’s supplemental essays.

In this article, we will cover the different prompts through Emory supplemental essay examples, and also provide you with expert tips on how to write a college essay .

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

Article Contents 9 min read

Introduction.

Emory requires a personal statement submitted through the Common App as well as two supplemental short essays. Here, we provide examples of all three essays, based on the prompts for 2024.

Emory Personal Statement

Required for all applicants

Length: 500–650 words (approximately)

I’ve never enjoyed baseball, or sports of any kind, but my dad does. I was looking forward to the “big game” far less than he was. My high school team had done very well, and we were entering a cycle of semi-finals and finals, and I got weary just thinking about it.

When I was little, I loved playing catch with Dad. My father has always been important to me. When I was a boy, I liked playing games with my friends, because I’m very social. I loved playing with people, but sports never really appealed, and the minute they became formal and competitive, I checked out.

In the week leading up to the game, I finally told my dad that I didn’t want to play anymore because I just didn’t care about the games. He was upset, which made me upset, too, and I went to bed that night feeling like he didn’t understand me and wasn’t really listening to me.

In short, I had a typical teenaged angry reaction.

Length: 200 words, max.

“What academic areas are you interested in exploring in college?”

On my desk, while I write this, is the broken shard of a smashed vase. I love this and keep it because it is a piece of history, found on an archaeological dig in Peru. I saved up a lot of money to buy it.

Anthropology gives us valuable insight into the future. Most people think of it as the past, but I know that studying who we – as human beings – were will lead us into understanding who we are and who we want to be. I believe this study is essential to humanity’s forward progress. A lack of understanding will lead to regression.

Like most anthropologists and archaeologists, working in the field is what excites me the most, and Emory’s field schools, like the Huari-Ancash Bio-Archaeological Research Project, interest me greatly. My dream is to find my way to Peru and learn about the people who made my broken vase.

The Bachelor of Science in Anthropology with a specialization in Biological Anthropology and Cultural Anthropology is what most interests me , because searching for answers right in the physiology of our ancestors can reveal how we lived, which is as close to a first-hand account as an archaeologist can hope for!

Looking for more tips? Check out the infographic below:

Third Essay: Answer any one of the prompts (below).

Length: 150 words, max.

A. “Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness.”

My family took a trip down to Mexico when I was a boy. My sister and I were having a wonderful time, but on the third day, I saw a Mexican boy, about my age, who said something to me; I didn’t speak Spanish.

A few years later, I started paying attention to the news, drawn into stories of border crossings and immigration reform. I saw somebody on the news, trying to cross into the US, who looked exactly like that boy.

I started Spanish classes the next year and joined a humanitarian society to do some volunteering in Mexico. I spent my time there working and speaking with locals.

If we’re going to learn to share the world, we must learn about each other, and I want to do my part to bridge the gaps and reach across the barriers and borders we put up.

When writing your essays, there are two ways to prepare: first, by understanding essay writing in general, and second, by knowing Emory’s specific parameters and expectations. We will cover a bit of both below.

Emory describes on their website the qualities they are looking for in their personal statements. Two blog articles discuss changing perspectives or opinions, so you will want to take that to heart and highlight your own personal growth in your essays. They also value curiosity, which is often a catalyst for change and growth, so notice a trend here.

Both of Emory’s supplemental essays are pretty short, 200 words or less, so you don’t have time to work your way through the careful machinations of a standard essay.

That doesn’t mean that you should abandon the standard essay format, however; it just means that, while writing for Emory specifically, you should keep your writing quick and lean. Note that this doesn’t apply to the personal statement for Emory, which is allowed to be longer.

Check out this video for some additional college essay tips:

For your introduction, look into how to start a college essay . You’re going to need a “hook” sentence that reels in readers. Think about how to make anybody want to read your work, even if they weren’t part of the admissions committee.

It might be useful to look up some college essay introduction examples to see how other people start their essays.

Normally, one or two paragraphs would be devoted to opening an essay, but with Emory’s truncated format, go for a brief paragraph of one or two sentences.

The opening of an essay sets up the body – the middle section wherein you unpack the details of what you want to say, present any arguments you are making, and fulfill the bulk of what the essay is about. Normally this would be at least two paragraphs dealing with the main ideas of the essay, but again, given Emory’s essays’ short length, you’ll want to keep to shorter statements and focus on just one idea.

Finally, wrap up your essay with the right touch: your conclusion should connect to the opener’s presentation and show how your ideas in the body all come together. It can be tricky to do this in a short paragraph of one or two sentences, but by focusing on exactly what you need to say, you should be able to whittle it down.

It can also be helpful, as a general tip, to recruit a college essay review service , either to help you get off the ground with your own essay, or to help as you refine it.

Thus armed with these Emory supplemental essay examples and the knowledge about how to write an essay and how to write for Emory, in particular, you should be well equipped to craft your own.

Remember to keep your writing tight – to respect the close word limits – and to bring yourself into the foreground of each answer; the admissions committee is looking to see why you are uniquely, specifically, the best candidate and fit for their school.

Beating writer’s block – a terribly common problem – might not be easy if you don’t know what to do. The best way to proceed is to take a blank page of paper and give yourself no more, and no less, than two minutes to just free-associate by writing whatever pops into your head. Remember to keep to the topic on which you are writing. If your prompt is “why this school?” for instance, you should free-associate about Emory – or whichever school you happen to be writing about.

Whenever you are given a limit – a character count, word count, page count, etc. – for any essay, make sure that you closely adhere to that limit. Note that character counts often include spaces, so be sure to measure your writing accurately. If you are using a word processing software, you can find this information in the document properties.

When essays don’t include direct limits, first, make sure you are consulting the correct requirements and, if in doubt, reach out to the admissions office. If there is no limit, it still doesn’t mean you should tear off a novella for the admissions committee to peruse. Respect their time, and the fact that they have a stack of papers to get through. Be economical with your words: if you can say something in ten words, don’t use twenty. Brevity is the soul of wit, as the saying goes, and you should default to “less is more.”

You can also judge an essay’s length based on similar essays. A short answer essay, including most supplemental essay prompts, will have a limit of around 200–250 words. Of course, there are exceptions – like Emory’s much shorter 150-word essays – so always double-check that you’re respecting given limits.

Everything counts. Admissions are competitive in post-secondary institutions, so you need to remember that while building your own application package. While a typo or two are unlikely to cost you a spot, you should still aim for flawless writing: several errors, mounting up over your application, will be an indication of a lack of precision, attention to detail, and general skill, and will make your essays frustrating to read. Whether you use a spell-checking and grammar-checking program, or employ a proofreader, make sure you deliver polished work that is error-free. With so many available options, there is not much room for excuses.

Give yourself two to three weeks to produce all the brainstorming, drafts, writing, revision, and editing that you’ll need to build an effective essay or two. You don’t have to make it a full-time job but try to spend at least some time on it each day.

No. You need to write three essays in total: a personal statement, the short essay on academic interests, and a response to one of the remaining prompts, which is your choice.

What you’re trying to do with your personal statement is show the committee something about yourself that they cannot get from anything else in your application: a good look at the personal you.

Of course, this doesn’t just mean listing likes and dislikes, or talking about your favorite book. You can talk about your favorite book, but it must relate to your personality, your goals, your values, times of change, or times that were important to you and had an impact in your life. Say something deeper about yourself than a transcript or a favorite ice cream flavor will reveal.

The goal, of course, is to show them why you fit with the school’s values, and why you’re the perfect candidate.

Aim to get close to the final word count as a rule of thumb, but if you’re a few words short, that’s okay. Emory’s short answer essays are small enough that you shouldn’t have trouble filling them out; however, if you’re wrapping up your personal statement at 200 words, you will want to dig deeper.

Common Application, or Common App, is a centralized application system for colleges and universities around the world. It allows students to create one application that they can submit to a variety of schools, saving them time in the process.

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How to Write the Emory Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

September 6, 2023

If you feel a strong pull towards Emory University, it's likely due to a multitude of reasons. Perhaps it's the appeal of smaller class sizes or the state-of-the-art lab facilities in Atlanta that have captured your attention. As a renowned research university, Emory looks for students who aren't afraid to take initiative in their communities and dedicate themselves to achieving their goals. By delving into your diverse interests and experiences, you have the ability to convince the admissions officers of your exceptional qualities and unwavering work ethic. In this blog post, I have provided a comprehensive discussion of the essay prompts and offered additional tips to help you successfully tackle the Emory supplemental essays for the 2023-2024 application cycle .

Emory Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

Academic interests (required), what academic areas are you interested in exploring at emory university and why (150-200 words recommended length).

The goal of this question is to assess whether you have done your research to determine if Emory is the right fit for you. InGenius Prep counselor Ken Johnson, who worked as an Admissions Officer at Emory, adds, “If you show you can write about some of Emory’s unique aspects that fit your particular academic interests or needs, then you will help admissions make a decision in your favor.”

If you have already decided on a major, visit the Academics section on Emory’s website, and thoroughly acquaint yourself with the offerings available. This will provide you with valuable insights into the courses, research programs, internships, and even professors that may be of interest to you. 

However, do not simply list what interests you. Ken adds, “The key point of the question is “why”.  Explain why the items you highlight interest you. It is better to focus on 2-3 things and explain in some detail why it is what you’re looking for and excited about. So rather than try to cover a lot of things superficially, scan and see what catches your eye. Then zero in on it and explain why.” Remember, the point is for admissions officers to gain insight into your interests and motivations, so don’t spend time reiterating information from the website.

If you are undecided and unsure about your major, don't worry! Emory has a liberal arts model of education, which means they encourage all students to explore various subjects and gain a breadth of knowledge and learning experiences. Emory's General Education Requirements are divided into four main areas, and two of these areas are particularly well-suited for showcasing why Emory is a great fit for you – even if you haven't decided on a major yet. 

First, there is “Exploration”, which encourages you to try courses from different disciplines. In this instance, Ken recommends that you mention 2 very different courses you’d like to check out. Second, there is “Experience and Application”, which presents an exceptional opportunity for students to gain practical experience and explore various career paths from the numerous organizations, research institutions, non-profits, and businesses that Emory is closely affiliated with. Ken also notes, "You might notice that the four areas of General Education requirements – exploration, communication, community/belonging, and practical experience – are related in part to the questions below."

Getting to Know You

In addition, please answer one of the following questions. (150 words)

Essay Option 1

Which book, character, song, monologue, or piece of work (fiction or non-fiction) seems made for you why.

For this prompt, you have the freedom to choose anything that resonates with you – whether it's from a movie, show, comedy routine, cartoon/anime, or even something outside of traditional literature like novels, short stories, or poems.

Ken adds, “The point is to explain how/why you relate to this piece of work. For example, with Japanese anime, such as the Evangelion series, I’ve seen students relate to it in completely different ways. One could relate to a character; another could relate to a philosophical theme, and another could relate to the artistic and production qualities. In explaining how you relate, you will reveal something about your own personality, interests, and even biases.” 

Essay Option 2

Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness..

Oftentimes, the first thing that comes to mind when reflecting on expanding cultural awareness is the experience of traveling abroad. While this can be a transformative experience, you don't have to choose an exotic location to impress admissions officers. What matters most is how you gained insight into a culture that is different from your own – regardless of where you were.

In fact, even without leaving your home country, there are countless ways to expand your cultural awareness. Perhaps you visited an art or history museum in your town, which exposed you to different perspectives and artistic expressions. Alternatively, maybe you immersed yourself in a different genre of music, either by attending a concert or actively listening – which opened your ears to new sounds and rhythms. Or perhaps, you watched a foreign film recently that opened your mind to different storytelling techniques and another culture's cinematic traditions. 

But sometimes, it's the simplest of experiences that can have the biggest impact – like trying a new ethnic cuisine for the first time, opening your taste buds to the rich tapestry of culinary traditions and the cultural significance of food. Even without venturing far, the possibilities for expanding your cultural awareness are endless. Reflect on how these experiences broadened your understanding and appreciation of different cultures. Did it challenge any preconceived notions or biases you may have had? Did it spark a curiosity to learn more about the history, traditions, or customs of the culture you encountered? 

By delving into these aspects, you will demonstrate not only your willingness to embrace diversity but also your ability to engage with and learn from different cultures. Throughout your response, remember to incorporate anecdotes and describe how these experiences have shaped your perspective and understanding of the world. Ken also adds, "Consider concluding this essay with a brief statement about why “expanding” your cultural awareness proved valuable to you." 

Essay Option 3

Emory university aspires for all students to flourish on campus. reflect on what flourishing at emory means to you..

“Flourishing” at Emory means more than just academic success; it encompasses personal growth and development in all aspects of life. Imagine yourself as a seed, planted in the nurturing environment of the Emory campus. Just as a seed needs the right soil, temperature, humidity, water, and sunlight to flourish and bloom, you too need the right conditions to thrive.

To get a deeper understanding of the non-academic aspects of life at Emory, take a look at the Explore section on Emory’s website . Here, you will find a wealth of opportunities and activities that can enrich your life on campus. From joining student organizations and clubs to participating in community service projects, there are countless ways that you can enrich your experience at Emory.

When writing about how you can contribute to this vibrant campus life, consider your unique skills, interests, and passions. Are you a natural leader who can organize events and bring people together? Do you have a talent for public speaking or performing arts that can add excitement to campus events? Are you passionate about community service and eager to make a difference in the lives of others?

Remember, Emory values holistic development . Reflect on how you envision yourself actively engaging in campus life – therefore, creating a fulfilling and well-rounded college experience for yourself and your peers.

Essay Option 4

Emory university’s unique mission calls for service to humanity. share how you might personally contribute to this mission of service to humanity..

If you choose to answer this question, first read Emory’s own statements of its vision and mission . Emory University takes great pride in its affiliation with Jimmy Carter's Carter Center , a world-renowned organization dedicated to promoting peace, health, and human rights. In fact, in recognition of his contributions, Emory appointed President Carter as a Distinguished Professor at the university after his presidency. Human rights were a major theme of President Carter's time in office, and the Carter Center continues to engage in numerous service projects around the world.

Therefore, Emory particularly favors students who have a strong commitment to service and community involvement, which would be evident in your Activities List section of the application. For this prompt, Ken highly recommends that you mention your interest in Volunteer Emory , a student-run organization that offers a wide range of volunteer placement opportunities. 

Throughout your response, reflect on your commitment to making a positive impact in the world and provide examples, like Volunteer Emory, for how to plan to contribute to their mission. Remember, your goal is to show the admissions officers at Emory that you are a student actively engaged in service, plan on continuing your volunteering efforts, and seek to cultivate a community of individuals dedicated to service and social responsibility.

Essay Option 5

Emory university has a strong commitment to building community. tell us about a community that you have been part of where your participation helped to change or shape the community for the better..

Like the previous question, you should only consider answering this question if you have a strong service record on your Activities List and Honors/Awards sections of your Common Application. Additionally, keep in mind that the term "community" should be interpreted broadly. It can encompass physical communities, such as neighborhoods or schools, but it can also refer to social, academic, athletic, ethnic, gender, sexual orientation, or other communities. The focus for this prompt should be on how you personally contributed to improving or shaping the community. 

Ken adds, “You should refer (but not repeat the description) of a service activity, mainly focusing on the results and impact of your participation.” For instance, if you were part of a volunteer program that aimed to improve literacy rates in underserved communities, you could discuss how your dedication and efforts led to an increase in reading levels among the children you worked with. Highlight the specific strategies you employed, such as implementing interactive learning activities or creating a supportive and encouraging environment, and explain how these initiatives positively influenced the community. By expanding on your personal contributions and the tangible outcomes you achieved, you will effectively demonstrate your commitment to creating positive change in various communities.

Essay Option 6

Reflection is a central tenet of emory university’s values. craft a personal email providing advice to yourself in your first year of high school..

This is your chance to be creative! Use humor, or even be serious and lighthearted as you provide advice to your younger self.  Ken notes, "Think of things you had the most trouble with or things that you wish others would have told/warned you about. Your advice could focus on personal things – like getting to class on time, where to study, whether to join a club or team, your participation in class, procrastinating on assignments, etc.”

You could also reflect on things you wish others would have warned you about. Do you have any regrets or actions you wish you had done differently during your first challenging year of high school? As you write this email to your younger self, remember to share your personal experiences and insights to show the admissions officers a different side of you. 

Additional Tips for Writing the Emory Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

Now that you’ve taken a look at the prompts for the Emory supplemental essays , here are a few tips to help your brainstorming process: 

• Choose your prompt strategically. Pick a topic that you believe will bring the best out of you, and help paint an accurate picture of your personality and values. You want to choose the topic that brings forward the qualities that make you a unique and valuable applicant.
• Don’t repeat your personal statement or your activities list. The goal of the Emory supplemental essays is to provide further information on who you are and what you’re all about. Before you start writing, map out potential essays for different prompts. Compare your outlines and make sure that when side-by-side, they bring out different strengths. Most importantly, make sure that they do not repeat what’s in the rest of your application. Use every opportunity to tell the admissions office something new about you. Don’t repeat yourself!

The Emory supplemental essays 2023-2024 present an incredible opportunity to offer the admissions officers a deeper understanding of your character, passions, and ambitions – as well as how an Emory education can propel you toward success. Approach each prompt with the intention of showcasing your individuality and leaving a lasting impression as an exceptional candidate. The goal is to persuasively convey to Emory why you are a student they cannot afford to overlook!

If you are looking for a college admissions counselor to help maximize your chances of getting into your dream school, we can help! InGenius Prep has helped more than 6,000 students around the world gain admission into the most competitive schools including Harvard, Yale, MIT, Johns Hopkins, Cornell, NYU, and more. Sign up for a free strategy call today and join the 6,000+ students we've helped get accepted into their dream schools.

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Writing Your Personal Statement

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Personal statements are designed to give graduate schools insight into your motivation for applying to their program. It is an opportunity for applicants to set themselves apart and potentially address any problem areas of their application (low GPA, test scores, etc.)

Here are a few tips as you outline and begin writing your essay:

• Make sure you are answering the application essay prompt/question
• Do not rehash your resume
• Focus on no more than 2-3 experiences to highlight
• Depth is more important than breadth
• If applicable, mention a professor’s research in the graduate program to which you are applying and why you are interested in that area
• Do not try to impress the committee with elevated vocabulary or overly technical language
• Focus on what motivates you to study and pursue a career in this area and be specific
• Make the essay tailored to the school; mention what appeals to you about the program and show how it relates to your background
• Tell a story and logically walk the admissions committee through why you are applying to  this  program, at  their  school to achieve  this  goal
• Have your essay reviewed and proofread by multiple people

If you are applying to multiple graduate programs, each of your application essays should be different and tailored to the specific program.

Additional Resources:

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• Emory Career Center Document Critique Service
• Graduate Admissions Essays, Fourth Edition: Write Your Way into the Graduate School of Your Choice by Don Asher

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Emory University: Essay Topics & Personal Statement Examples

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Applying to Emory University this fall? If you are just getting started on your application essays, get some inspiration from these successful essay excerpts:

1. Overcoming Personal Struggle

Essay Excerpt from Dooleypeanuts

Emory University ‘22

Neuroscience and Neurobiology

“The barrage of reciprocative outcries coming from downstairs woke me up violently. Oh no, not again. I clambered out of bed and stumbled towards the family room. Sprinting down the stairs, I found my mom screaming desperately at my frenzied dad, the beer bottles scattered across the floor decidedly confirming my suspicions. I rushed in, straining with what little might i had to push them apart and lead my mom away.”

Not sure how to approach a heavy, personal essay topic? Unlock his Emory student profile to see how he did it.

2. Embarrassing Mistake

Essay Excerpt from  Aroada

Emory University ‘21

Neuroscience

“My nose itched at the sensation of the scratchy carpet and tears dripping down my face. There I was, lying on the floor of a ritzy athletic club in the middle of town following a dramatic slip off a treadmill. Ah, the recurring sense of humiliation had come to greet me again the most expensive way.”

Unlock her Emory application profile to see how she turned an embarrassing mistake into an essay topic.

3. Death of a Loved One

Essay Excerpt from Jessiemoore14

Emory University ‘19

Environmental and Marine Sciences

“Ever since I was a child I would always find myself listening to the constant “clicks” from the computers that were at some stage of repair every morning in the living room. Sound cards and microprocessors were spread across the floor as my dad attempted to detect the problems and complications within each computer’s casing. Watching him struggle with each of these projects, I would sit next to him with one of these relinquished components and wonder about its functions and consider the possibilities of it outcome.”

It’s never easy losing someone, especially at such a young age. Unlock her Emory profile to read what kind of impact it had on her.

4. Athletic Achievement

Essay Excerpt from Ilay123

“I missed the shot.

Was this because of the tiny circumference of the hoop? Was this because of the potential energy overcoming the kinetic energy? Or was this simply because of my lack of skill? I knew that this was the beginning of the basketball team with my peers who were at least one grade below me. Disappointment rushed through me, when I realized that I would be put in a team full with people who were younger than me.”

Many lessons can be learned from sports. Unlock her successful Emory application file to discover the values she learned.

5. Issue of Personal Significance

Essay Excerpt from Channellerusse

Language Studies and Linguistics

“When I was four, we were homeless. We lived in the Bronx at the time, and it was winter. My mother didn’t have the money to buy heavy-duty winter jackets, so we settled for thin layers of clothes. We were immigrants fresh off the plane from Jamaica, and our English was heavily accented. Still, even with the fear that we might not be understood, we begged. For money. For compassion. We were homeless and cold, pleading in the middle of November. Eventually, we found help at a shelter were roaches ran rampant and we had little to eat. There was little in my stomach about gnawing emptiness and hunger cramps.”

Unlock her Emory student profile to find out how she got through her family’s difficult times.

Find these essay excerpts helpful? You can find more Emory student profiles in AdmitSee’s undergraduate search . 

Want more profile access? Our  premium plans  offer different levels of profile access and data insights that can help you with your application process. Unlock any of our  packages  or search our  undergraduate profile database  to find specific profiles that can help you make an informed choice about where to apply! 

About The Author

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How to Write the University of North Carolina Supplemental Essay

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 5/24/24

Imagine your University of North Carolina supplemental essay as a key, uniquely crafted by you, ready to unlock the gates to one of the most prestigious universities in the nation—let's forge that key together!

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is more than a renowned academic institution; it's a dynamic hub where a multitude of diverse viewpoints and distinctive narratives converge, forming a lively and rich academic community.

As part of your application, the supplemental essays offer a fantastic opportunity to showcase your personality, experiences, and aspirations, helping you stand out in a pool of talented applicants.

We'll delve into the specifics of each UNC essay prompt, providing you with insightful strategies to help you craft compelling and authentic responses . Whether you're reflecting on your journey, discussing your academic interests, or sharing your vision for the future, these essays are your chance to let the admissions committee see the real you.

The University of North Carolina Supplemental Essay Prompts 2023-2024

When reviewing your responses to the UNC Chapel Hill essay prompts, the admissions team is eager to understand what joining the Carolina community would mean to each prospective student. UNC takes pride in its vibrant Carolina community, which thrives on the excellence, intellect, and character of each student. 

The admissions process is an opportunity for applicants to showcase how they align with these values and envision their contribution to the university's dynamic environment.

The University of North Carolina has chosen the following prompts for the UNC-specific section of the first-year and transfer applications for 2023-2024. 

Discuss one of your personal qualities and share a story, anecdote, or memory of how it helped you make a positive impact on a community. This could be your current community or another community you have engaged.

Discuss an academic topic that you’re excited to explore and learn more about in college. Why does this topic interest you? Topics could be a specific course of study, research interests, or any other area related to your academic experience in college.

How to Write the Essay Prompts for the University of North Carolina

Below are tips for writing the University of North Carolina essay prompts. Focus on authenticity and introspection, using personal stories to highlight your character and growth. 

Approach each prompt thoughtfully, clearly articulating your unique qualities and experiences, and ensure your responses are engaging and reflective of your journey and perspectives.

How to Write the University of North Carolina Supplemental Essay #1 + Analysis and Tips

Analysis of Prompt #1 : This prompt begins by inviting you to share a personal quality that is crucial for the admissions committee to understand. The task is to anchor this quality in a real-life story that connects to the broader world, demonstrating how you've positively impacted others. 

A practical approach might be to start from a point where you've made a meaningful contribution to a community, and then identify the personal attribute that played a key role in this context. This method ensures that the quality, be it empathy, versatility, loyalty, trustworthiness, resilience, or another, is illustrated through action rather than just described.

When contemplating your approach to this essay, it's vital to interpret "community" in its broadest sense. This term can refer to various groups, including your high school, neighborhood, place of worship, family, or even a club or sports team. 

However, it's important to remember that the impact described doesn't need to be world-altering. Avoid the trap of feeling the need to present a story where you single-handedly solve major global issues. The focus should be on authentic experiences where you've made a real difference, without necessarily being the sole hero of the story.

Here are some tips to take note of when writing the UNC supplemental essay for prompt #1:

• Select the Right Personal Quality : Choosing a personal quality that resonates with you and aligns with your experiences is crucial. This quality will serve as the focal point of your essay, so make sure it's meaningful and reflective of your character.
• Craft a Vivid Story : Start your essay with a compelling narrative that vividly illustrates the chosen personal quality in action. A well-crafted story will engage the reader and make your essay memorable.
• Show Impact on Others : Demonstrate how your actions and the selected personal quality have positively impacted others in your chosen community context. Highlight the difference you've made in the lives of those involved.

These three tips emphasize the importance of choosing the right quality, storytelling, and showcasing your impact on others, which are key elements in creating a strong and compelling essay for UNC's Supplemental Essay #1.

How to Write the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Supplemental Essay #2 + Analysis and Tips

Analysis of Prompt #2 : The second prompt asks you to discuss an academic topic you're excited to explore in college and why it interests you. It is an opportunity for you to share your academic journey and the development of your passion for a specific discipline. UNC wants to understand why you're drawn to this area of study and how your interest has evolved over time. 

The prompt provides flexibility in structuring your essay—you can either provide a comprehensive narrative of your journey or focus on key moments or vignettes that highlight your passion.

Crafting a standout University of North Carolina Chapel Hill (UNC) Supplemental Essay #2 involves reflecting on and conveying your passion for a chosen academic field. Here are three tips:

• Connect Your Past to Your Future Goals : Link your previous experiences, such as significant projects or moments of discovery, to your academic aspirations at UNC. Show how these experiences have shaped your interest and how you plan to leverage UNC's offerings to achieve your goals. Mention specific UNC resources or opportunities that align with your ambitions.
• Demonstrate Enthusiasm and Curiosity : Let your genuine excitement for the subject shine through. Share examples of how you've explored this interest outside the classroom, such as through independent study, internships, or personal projects. Your eagerness to engage with the subject at UNC should be evident.
• Reflect on the Evolution of Your Interest : Describe how your passion for the subject has grown and matured over time. Discuss any challenges you've faced and how they've reinforced your commitment to this field. Illustrate how this interest ties into your broader life goals or values.

Your essay should narratively link your past experiences to future aspirations at UNC, highlight your enthusiasm for your chosen field, and reflect on the development of your interest. Be authentic and specific to demonstrate why you and UNC are a perfect match.

Examples of UNC-Chapel Hill Supplemental Essays That Worked

The essays showcased below were composed by successful applicants at UNC. We have also provided feedback on the examples for the UNC supplemental essays and explained why the admissions committee found them compelling.

Sample Essay #1

Prompt : “Please submit a short essay (250 words or fewer) that describes your academic interests and the ways you believe Honors Carolina can help you pursue them.”

“I’ve attended [SCHOOL NAME] since second grade. Each student must pass an IQ test for acceptance, but that’s just the beginning. The curriculum is a year ahead of one’s actual grade level, so, in 8th grade, I completed our county’s ninth-grade curriculum. The students are highly intellectual and competitive, so it’s difficult to stand out academically since everyone’s an excellent student, yet because I study hard, I do. I hold that the Honors Carolina program would challenge me academically and socially in the manner to which I’ve grown accustomed, as Honors Carolina houses like-minded students who value intellect and excellence.

The classes that I’ve most enjoyed in high school have been related to law, business, psychology, and history. I aim to pursue coursework in these areas of study to hone in on my primary focus. These fields seem to suit my personality because I’m intrigued by people's actions and behaviors. I’m curious about the reason people make the choices they make. Environmental law appeals to me, for example, because I could leverage the judicial system to protect our beautiful coastal lands. History suits me because I like to put myself in the shoes of our predecessors and see life from their points of view. With none of the technology that we have today, people were able to accomplish great things in the years of yesterday. Similarly, I look forward to the opportunities Honors Carolina affords me to accomplish great things in the years of tomorrow.” 

Why Essay #1 Worked

The essay effectively communicates the applicant's academic background, intellectual curiosity, and how Honors Carolina aligns with their pursuit of excellence and specific academic interests. 

It showcases the applicant's readiness for challenge, commitment to standing out in a competitive environment, and enthusiasm for law, business, psychology, and history, articulating a clear vision for how the program can further their educational and career goals.

Sample Essay #2 - UNC Activity Essay

“It was the summer of 2022 when fifteen fellow [ENVIRONMENTAL CLUB] members, three chickens, an octopus, a bevy of clams, and I all partook in a marine science project. The goal; to discover why the local clams were dying. As a Junior Board Member of [ENVIRONMENTAL CLUB], I helped arrange the dumping of a million clams back into [OCEANFRONT]. Scientists would then track and analyze the local clam culture and population. A grand plan to save clams had to start somewhere. Ours began with a ten-foot long metal clam tumbler at a local clam farm. The tumbler was filled with 100,000+ clams, making it our largest clam run to date in the “[EVENT NAME]”!

I arrived at the clam farm, and was struck by the familiar smell of a bait shop, a scent I love, as it reminds me of fishing. Our clam project required us to purchase the clams from the clam farmer. The one hiccup in the plan was that we had to handpick them ourselves, separating the live from the dead. It seems you can’t just order 7,000 pounds of live clams and expect them to be handed to you.  I was positioned at the bottom of the tumbler, picking through a constant river of clams and other sea life. An added bonus was sorting out toadfish, crabs, starfish, and even a live octopus with my bare hand and feeding them to the farm's chickens. After three hours of picking, we loaded countless five-gallon buckets onto a trailer before making our “[EVENT NAME]” up to [OCEANFRONT] where this clam run’s drop zone was. 

Mysteriously, there is a new war going on between clams and their environment. The reason for the clam population’s demise is unknown. As the lieutenant of this campaign, leading my corp and our 76,000 stone-like soldiers on the biggest clam run of our [EVENT NAME] I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride at being a part of this project. As a team, we took matters into our own hands (literally) to preserve our community’s little mollusks. Though it’s too early to tell if our efforts have been successful in our Great “Clampaign”, we are nonetheless able to track the success of each group of the million clams we dropped throughout the various drop zones of the [OCEANFRONT] battlefield, and we are cautiously optimistic that we’ll win the war to save the clams!

To fully grasp why saving the clams is so critical to me, one must understand what it is like growing up on a beach. The marine ecosystem is something I study and enjoy every single day. Island dwellers gain an insight into their environment and are tuned into practical ways to keep the gulf coast thriving. Between fishing, sea turtle protection, identifying invasive lizards, tracking tides, beach renourishment, safeguarding gopher tortoises and their burrows, clam tagging, and island conservation, I’ve been involved in a multitude of coastal ecological projects. Because it’s not enough for just our generation to respect the [OCEAN NAME] and do our part to preserve its beauty, [ENVIRONMENTAL CLUB]  is currently raising awareness in the elementary schools as well. We are teaching the importance of protecting [OCEANFRONT] and its essential aquatic flora and fauna to our community and to our visitors from all over the world. When it comes to preserving the coast, you don’t want to be shellfish.”

Why Essay #2 Worked

The essay successfully illustrates the applicant's deep engagement with environmental conservation through a vivid narrative of a marine science project, highlighting leadership, teamwork, and a hands-on approach to solving ecological challenges. 

It effectively conveys the applicant's passion for marine ecology, their community involvement, and their commitment to educating younger generations, all of which align with the values sought by UNC.

Sample Essay #3

Prompt : “Describe an aspect of your identity and how this has shaped your life experiences or impacted your daily interactions with others? (200–250 words)”

“I adjust the grand piano’s bench, which loudly scrapes against the boards of the stage with the dissonance of a bow against an untuned violin. In my peripheral vision, I spy a judge wincing at the noise. I dry my sweaty palms on my slacks and visualize the first measure of my piece. I position my fingers on the keys that normally feel so familiar, though today, like strangers. My breath syncopates in my chest as my heart beats presto staccato. With time ticking away, the moment never quite right, I attack the first note.

Since age 5, I’ve been learning the technique of playing, listening to, and analyzing the history of piano and music. Practicing requires diligence and dedication, but for me, it’s become as automatic as brushing my teeth. While listening to music, even on the radio, I’ve been trained to listen for rhythm, textures, tempo, patterns, and even historical context. Ensemble play, which I’ve been doing since age 7, has helped to develop my leadership skills, my openness to different opinions and ideas, and of course, patience. I use these skills daily in school and sports, as they help me collaborate better.

Playing piano is like traveling on an infinite road toward mastery. Though you may never get there, the journey is what counts. I’ve applied this idea to everything I do, focusing more on the journey than the destination. After 14 years of successful performance, there’s one thing I can always count on: the next note.”

Why Essay #3 Worked

The essay effectively conveys how the applicant's identity as a pianist has shaped their life, emphasizing the discipline, dedication, and collaborative skills gained through years of practice and performance. 

It illustrates a profound connection to music that impacts daily interactions and personal growth, using vivid imagery to draw the reader into the experience and highlighting the transferable skills developed through musical pursuit.

Sample Essay #4

Prompt : Former UNC-Chapel Hill employee, community service member, and civil rights activist Esphur Foster once said, “We are nothing without our history.” Her words are memorialized on the Northside Neighborhood Freedom Fighters monument. How does history shape who you are? (200–250 words)”

Take a look at how this Emory student answered this prompt:

“What do the Mayflower, the Salem witch trials, six Prussian brothers, a Sicilian immigrant, and a [AGE]-year old [ETHNICITY] girl have in common? The hint has to do with identity and family, but it’s too diverse to pack in a box…

On dad’s side, six Jewish brothers fled European antisemitism. In the US, their progeny achieved the American dream. When I became a bar mitzvah, I recommitted to my Jewish religion. 

My father’s side was not my family's first American experience. When John Alden, the Mayflower’s ship cooper and a direct ancestor of my [FAMILY MEMBER], arrived in Plymouth in 1620, another piece of my lineage took root here. I am the [GENERATION NUMBER] of this line! 

My mother’s side of the family was involved in remarkable times, including the Salem Witch Trials. When only 14, my great-great-grandmother traveled solo from [COUNTRY] in the hold of a ship. Finally, my great-grandparents came from Sicily through Ellis Island. They settled in Massachusetts and started a profitable cheese company. 

Serendipitously, my parents met in [CITY AND STATE], tying their interesting histories together. My mother converted to Judaism before I was born, further melding their histories into my own unique, facile-classification-defying identity. My history is special and the stories of my people inspire me. I want future generations to look back at my life and feel that same pride. 

So, what do the Mayflower, the Salem witch trials, six Prussian brothers, a Sicilian immigrant, and a [AGE] [ETHNICITY] have in common? Me!”

Why Essay #4 Worked

The essay skillfully intertwines personal and familial history with broader historical events, illustrating how the student's unique heritage and the diverse backgrounds of their ancestors have shaped their identity. 

By connecting their lineage to significant historical moments and migrations, the student demonstrates a deep appreciation for their complex heritage, fulfilling Esphur Foster's assertion about the importance of history in defining individual identity and inspiring future generations.

FAQs: How to Write the UNC-Chapel Hill Supplemental Essays

Below are some of the frequently asked questions and answers about UNC supplemental essays:

1. Does UNC Have Any Supplemental Essays?

Yes, UNC Chapel Hill requires applicants to complete two supplemental essays, each capped at 250 words, as part of their application. 

The first UNC-Chapel Hill supplemental essay prompt invites applicants to discuss a personal quality they possess, along with a story, anecdote, or memory demonstrating how this quality positively impacted a community. 

The second essay prompt focuses on academic interests, asking applicants to explore a topic they are excited to learn more about in college and explain why it intrigues them. This could relate to a specific course of study, research interests, or any other academic area they plan to pursue at UNC-Chapel Hill.

2. How Many Essays Do You Need to Write for UNC?

UNC requires applicants to write seven essays and short supplements. These include two short-answer essays of 200–250 words each and five fill-in-the-blank essays of 25 words each. 

Additionally, applicants must write one personal statement from the Common Application essay prompts, which should be 250–650 words long

3. What Does UNC-Chapel Hill Look for in an Essay?

UNC seeks genuine insights into applicants' personal qualities, backgrounds, and community involvement. The university aims to gauge what applicants will contribute to campus life. 

Applicants should use vivid, concise language in their essays to distinguish themselves and demonstrate why they are a fit for UNC-Chapel Hill's diverse community.

Final Thoughts

As we wrap up this comprehensive guide on writing the University of North Carolina supplemental essays, remember that these essays are your opportunity to shine. They are not just about showcasing your academic prowess or community involvement; they are about sharing your unique story, your passions, and how these have shaped you. 

In writing your University of North Carolina essay, remember that the admissions committee wants to see beyond grades and scores. They're interested in real individuals with unique stories and ambitions. Your essays should be a true reflection of your identity and values and illustrate how you envision contributing to the UNC community.

So, take a deep breath, be yourself, and let your personality and aspirations come through in your writing. Good luck!

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George Yancy and Judith Butler: Universities Have Failed Their Democratic Mission by Repressing Gaza Protests

As two U.S. philosophers, we feel compelled to bring our experience and perspective to bear on the current crisis in academia and the pressing need for solidarity with those suffering from Israeli brutality in Gaza and campus protesters who seek justice and freedom for Palestinians. In the piece that follows, we each sequentially offer reflections on the nationwide campus protests against the genocide of Palestinians, the ways in which university leadership has used draconian policing tactics to suppress and silence student voices, and the dangerous, problematic, and wrong-headed conflation of critiques of the Israeli state with antisemitism. We join these reflections together in solidarity and shared sorrow.

Dispatch From Emory University

George Yancy: At Emory University, my academic “home”—a place where I have taught my students to be diligent in their resistance against and critique of injustice wherever it exists—the Atlanta Police Department and the Georgia State Troopers were arranged in tactical formation. The entire scene was surreal, one that for me triggered the long history of anti-Black policing in this country in the form of slave patrols that were designed to inflict fear and terror on Black people. The historical scenes of trauma recycle; the Black body doesn’t forget.

It was also not lost on me that some of these Georgia police officers engaging in violence at Emory may have been trained by the Israeli military. If this is the case, then the surveillance and brutal physical tactics learned within the context of Palestinian existential destruction were brought onto “our” campus, where nonviolent and defiant Emory University students understand the ethical and political urgency of now . Our students refused to bow down and have their political imaginations and resistance against injustice and the despicable exercise of Israeli violence in Gaza defined by those who seem hell-bent on weaponizing antisemitism to silence those who criticize the Israeli state. That form of silencing—or attempted silencing—is indicative of McCarthyism, but in this case the objective is the repression and persecution of protesters against Israel’s massacre of Palestinian people, and a campaign to spread lies about purported antisemitism and support for terrorism.

Attacks on supporters of Palestinian human rights aren’t new in the U.S. This phenomenon is known as the Palestine Exception to Free Speech , an egregious set of practices that attempt to destroy the lives of those who refuse to be intimidated: Their voices are silenced and their right to free speech is violated as they speak out against Israel’s colonial violence. If we’re not careful, our very expression of grief for those who suffer injustice will be policed under conditions of martial law. The emergence of a right-wing political sovereign may outlaw the conditions that make an embodied and emboldened ethical existence possible.  

As I stood with our students in the evening, there was no hint of antisemitism. Indeed, earlier that evening I also stood with Jewish Emory students who expressed their opposition to those who attempt to equate the protests with antisemitism. These Jewish students wholly reject the blatant lies spewed by Benjamin Netanyahu, who has claimed that antisemitic mobs have taken over leading universities in the U.S. and that students are calling for the annihilation of Israel . Such violent and vitriolic discourse was not used by the Emory students whom I stood by, and in solidarity with. Emory students are appalled by the deaths of so many Palestinians, the continued occupation, and the fact that “ nearly 85 percent of Gaza’s 2.3 million people have been displaced .” The only violence that I witnessed was the intimidation tactics and actions perpetrated by the police. The officers’ actions posed the only clear and present danger. As for the students, I witnessed the pursuit of social justice, an actual expression of tikkun olam (the aim to repair the world).

Suddenly, I heard the shots. I experienced a very painful involuntary coughing, choking, and uncontrollable tears. My respiratory system was suddenly under attack. My body responded under duress. I could hear the panic. I witnessed the outrage, anger, disbelief, and looks of betrayal on the faces of Emory University students. The students began passing out masks, looking for water and milk to counteract the impact of the chemical agents used to disperse the protest. I saw the police in tactical formation, ready to pounce, ready to bring dystopic chaos to bear upon an otherwise peaceful protest where Emory University students (and some faculty) had gathered and refused to be silenced. Some will try to argue that the police were necessary for “security” reasons. Given the police’s brutal attack on students, one is left to ask: “ Security for whom or for what—certainly not security for protesters .”  

Much earlier that day, before the encampment was destroyed by the Atlanta Police Department, I was able to bear witness to and take pictures of the organized encampment while on my way to teach a class. It was such a calm space. There were tents and effigies of Palestinians murdered, wrapped in white marked with blood stains, along with names and dates. The sight was hard to bear. Because I had to teach, I shook the hand of one Emory student who has been indefatigable in making others aware of the existential catastrophe that Palestinians face. By shaking his hand, my aim was to communicate my respect for the students’ courage, determination, shared grief, compassion, and commitment to fighting injustice. Moreover, I witnessed calm. Little did I know that about five minutes after I left to go to class, 17 Emory students and three of my university colleagues were arrested —some thrown brutally to the ground—zip-tied and taken to jail. I want to emphasize the calm before the police storm. Clearly, it was the police officers’ presence and their actions that initiated the unnecessary violence perpetrated against Emory students and faculty. After class, I personally witnessed police shoot someone on campus at close range with a gun filled with chemical agents and then brutally thrown to the ground. I saw students running as if fleeing for their lives on a campus that they see as their “academic home.” That sense of “home” will forever be marked with disgust and shame.   

One of my colleagues told me that during the quad policing rampage, an officer pointed a long gun (one intended to shoot chemical agents) directly at their head. They do not know how they will move forward, or whether they will feel safe on Emory’s campus again.

While I was in the last class of the semester, as per my pedagogy I recounted to my students the importance of the Socratic tradition of critical thought, of rejecting conformism, and of refusing injustice, racism, and sexism. I emphasized the critical importance of resisting the urge to cave in to fear of forms of violent authority that attempt to silence them, to suppress their voices. I see my pedagogy in the spirit of Paulo Freire, who characterized education as a form of love, instead of as fear and suppression of critical analysis; it is a form of love, as James Baldwin says, that “takes off the masks that we fear we cannot live without.” So, while I was reminding my students why they should value the Socratic tradition, my pedagogical efforts were being undermined on the quad. Then again, perhaps the violence that took place on the quad in the face of peaceful and nonviolent resistance reflected the fatal consequences that Socrates faced. 

Unlike the president of Emory, who could have admitted that it was unwarranted to call in the Atlanta Police Department, and who mischaracterized who had powerfully orchestrated the protest on the quad (it was Emory students and not so-called outside instigators ), Emory students exercised forethought and practiced the best of the tradition of nonviolent resistance. And, yet, they were met with violence—not dialogue, not compassion, not vulnerability, not genuine leadership. I know that there will be those who will say I’m committing a false equivalence, but it is hard not to feel and see at least some similarity to the brutal tactics deployed by the infamous white racist Bull Connor, the police commissioner of Birmingham, Alabama, who on May 3, 1963, unleashed vicious police, attack dogs and fire hoses to attack Black protesters fighting against Jim Crow racism. Those young Black students understood what it meant to stand for justice. Keep in mind that at Emory, most of the students protesting were students of color.

While my students can and did speak for themselves, it is my duty, as an educator, to testify on their behalf. They understand what Martin Luther King Jr. meant by the lines: “A time comes when silence is betrayal.” They understand what Audre Lorde meant when she wrote, “I have come to believe over and over again that what is most important to me must be spoken, made verbal and shared, even at the risk of having it bruised or misunderstood.” They understand what Toni Morrison meant when she wrote: “Anger is better. There is a sense of being in anger. A reality and presence. An awareness of worth.” They understand the sense of urgency in the actions of Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, who said, during the Vietnam war, that he couldn’t pray. He replied to a journalist: “Whenever I open the prayerbook, I see before me images of children burning from napalm.”

It is this profound understanding that testifies, in this case, to the titular meaning of Emory University’s mission, which is “to create, preserve, teach, and apply knowledge in the service of humanity.” This is precisely what Emory students were doing. They were creating sites of knowledge-production, opening spaces to counter modes of willful ignorance. They were preserving their ethical and epistemic integrity. They were, through their actions, teaching the world something about what shared love looks like in the face of mass graves in Gaza that have resulted from Israeli violence. They were applying their knowledge of historical injustice and fighting against it in its current manifestations. And they were doing all of this in the service of humanity, in the service of the humanity of Palestinians.

Emory University students know what it means to be, as Judith Butler writes, “undone by each other.” They know what it is like to be undone by the massive suffering of Palestinians, to be disorientated or feel themselves gone missing because so many Palestinian lives have been taken, lost. That is what grief does, that is what it should do.

The political effort to silence critique of Israel’s violent decimation of Palestinians, in the form of the Antisemitism Awareness Act , is dangerous to an already deeply fragile U.S. democratic experiment. It would penalize legitimate assembled forms of collectively expressed grief for others and thereby undermine the conditions for unambiguously identifying gratuitous violence when we see it. I proudly stand with the nearly 700 Jewish professors who reject the Antisemitism Awareness Act .  

What I witnessed at Emory University was a moral, political, and institutional failure. To see the draconian measures and violent police tactics unleashed and condoned by many university presidents across the U.S., those who answer to board members, donors, and politicians, is to bear witness to what Judith Butler calls “violence done against those who are [deemed] unreal.” If such violence is done against Palestinians who are deemed unreal, then, as Butler writes, “from the perspective of violence, it fails to injure or negate those lives since those lives are already negated.”

I urge the president of Emory and other U.S. university “leaders” who are taking callous actions against their students to take a moment to imagine 14,000 murdered Palestinian children, their bodies are bloodied and broken, looking deep into their eyes and asking: “What if we were your children?”

University administrators, I challenge you to tell the truth. If the children murdered in Gaza were your own children, wouldn’t you then be moved yourself to protest on campus quads, create encampments and shelter in place, march, block traffic, defy orders to disperse, occupy buildings, stage walkouts and scream the names of the murdered? Wouldn’t you keep coming back despite the chemical agents, despite attacks by police and their brutal tactics to protect property, despite threats to your academic standing, despite being falsely accused of not being concerned with other children who aren’t your own? Wouldn’t you want to dismantle every form of financial investment that is complicit in the vicious murder of your child? It is the least you could do to demand justice for those you love in the face of staggering injustice.

Student protesters have been moved to take these actions because—unlike the university administrators who are repressing them—they are not willing to forget that Palestinians in Gaza, like all of us, are fellow humans worthy of love and respect.

————————————————————

An Echo of War Tactics on Campuses?

Judith Butler: The brutal police actions against these students recall for all of us multiple different histories of force being unleashed against peaceful protesters. These histories carry the traumatic legacy of racism, and that history is relived in the tactics and aims of the police violence against Palestine solidarity protesters this spring. It matters as well that so many police forces are now trained in military methods, treating protesters as domestic enemies who must be forcibly subdued and displaced. As we know, Israel is among the military powers who have been training police in the U.S. and elsewhere in military methods. The distinction between police and military activities collapses, with the result that a version of war is waged against students, undermining their rights to participate in campus discussions about investments that establish complicity with Israeli state power and its current genocidal actions.

The practice of suspending students before arresting them attests to the fact that students do have a right to assemble on campus. That right is assaulted as they are forcibly removed from encampments. The message from administrators is clear: You will lose your status as a student if you exercise the rights that belong to you as students.

In recruiting police against students, administrators undermine the basic trust that should exist on campuses. Students and faculty should be able to express their views outside the classroom without fear of reprisal. Public debate on controversial issues is something that every university should support and protect. Recruiting the police to strip students of their rights and their student status is an assault not only on the idea of the university, but on the place and role of universities in democratic societies.

Some administrators have engaged in productive conversations with student protesters, showing how a university community can be strengthened by open and transparent forms of communication and disagreement. The student demands that have been met on some occasions include a) full disclosure of how endowment funds are invested and b) the end to all investments that support or profit from the Israeli military machine. These are reasonable demands based on clear principles of justice. Some administrators have listened to these demands and arranged direct communication between students and board members who make investment and divestment decisions. Such actions wisely keep the police out of the picture and strengthen the sense that campuses are meant to strengthen communication rather than engage in censorship, expulsion, or the unleashing of police force against their own constituents for exercising basic rights of expression.

I wonder whether we can say that administrators who recruit police force are mirroring or extending war tactics on campuses. Obviously, a strict parallel cannot be drawn, since campus roads are not strewn with the body parts of murdered people, as we have seen in Gaza. Many jurists have concurred that genocide is the appropriate term for describing the targeting of innocent lives in Gaza and the destruction of the infrastructures of life itself. The military destruction of Rafah threatens to confirm the full decimation of conditions of habitability, along with the deliberate creation of widespread famine. As the tactics and methods used by both Israeli forces and U.S. police link Palestine and college campuses, so too does the practice of associating speech critical of Israeli action with the scourge of antisemitism.   

Yes, we can find examples where it is Jews and Judaism that are targeted by some speech, and we should all be opposing that kind of speech as we would any form of racist speech. But it is an abuse and overreach of the allegation to include all criticisms of Israel or Zionism as examples of antisemitic speech. Indeed, the allegation loses its meaning and efficacy when it becomes an instrument for suppressing or maligning legitimate and necessary protest, especially when it is Palestinian voices that are trying to be heard. It is Palestinian and Arab students whose speech is suppressed, and who have no access to the claim of “feeling unsafe” even when threatened with censorship and police repression.   

Students from every background are seeing and naming what is true in a truthful way—and too often being punished for saying what so many others fear to know and say. We should support their speech and their effort to know and say what is true.

The term “ genocide ” can be debated by scholars of international law, but that means there is a debate, and such debate should be considered as protected speech on college campuses.  

In a recent op-ed published on CNN ’s website, Frida Ghitis writes that “Many people see, as I do, a direct connection in the genocide accusations to a centuries’ old calumny that has bedeviled the Jewish people, used since the Middle Ages to taunt them and even to justify massacring and exiling them. It’s called the blood libel, and it has long helped fuel the apparently undying fires of antisemitism.”

But what precisely is the “direct connection”? Ghitis appears to think that it does not need to be demonstrated, and that her own association is enough to ground her claim. If the State of Israel commits acts of violence that conform to the legal definition of genocide , then we would all be irresponsible for failing to name and oppose this radical injustice. The allegation of genocidal practices bears no resemblance to the false and flagrantly antisemitic allegations of blood libel against Jews, which did indeed lead to their massacre. Ghitis’s remarks in the present imply that the allegation of genocide leads to, or could lead to, a massacre of Jews.

According to this logic, any effort to describe the Israeli massacre of Palestinians as genocide is nothing other than a pretext for massacring Jews. This wild conjecture denies the genocidal character of Israeli violence by inverting it, establishing Israel as the victim. Of course, Israel was attacked on October 7 in a truly horrific way. And there is no reason to shy away from condemning those acts. But now is the time to focus on stopping a much worse and continuing violence.

Not to speak out against this genocide is itself irresponsible. The repression of speech denies students a way to take an ethical stand against this continuing horror. We cannot oppose genocide against one people and condone it against another without losing all ethical consistency. Nor can we condone a genocide by conjecturing a genocide that any condemnation will bring, especially when one is actually happening on the ground, and the other is a phantasmatic conjecture that draws from the past to incite further violence in the name of “self-defense.” Ghitis attributes the violence the state is doing to those who are suffering its actual effects, thus exonerating the state slaughter conducted in the name of “self-defense.”

When any effort to name and oppose Israeli violence is taken to be a violence against Israel itself, then a brutal trap is imposed on those struggling to speak. The allegation of genocide is construed as genocidal against the Jews. The Jewish people are held up as the truest victims in this twisted narrative. This inversion can only happen, however, by conflating Israel with all of the Jewish people. Such a conflation turns all criticism into “antisemitism.” And it fails to acknowledge that the Israeli state, like any militarized state, can be guilty of unconscionable violence. As it surely now is.   

Because the state of Israel itself claims to represent the Jewish people, it enables the conflation of Israel with all Jewish people. If the world accepts this conflation, then indeed every allegation against the state is ipso facto an allegation against the Jewish people as such. And yet, to oppose antisemitism, we demand that all of us who oppose the Israeli state distinguish between the Jewish people and the State of Israel. That effort to oppose antisemitism is defeated in advance by an Israeli state discourse that refuses this very distinction. Indeed, we should ask, what has the Israeli state done to Jewishness now that it is tied up so tightly with its own criminal violence. And yet, there are those who seek to refuse to keep Jewish values from this fate of destruction and to ally with the nonviolent struggle for a free Palestine in the name of justice.

As far as I can see, thoughtful Jews everywhere, young and old, committed to a justice wrought through a political solidarity with Palestinians are refusing this conflation, as is evident by the escalating number of Jews now joining Jewish Voice for Peace , If Not Now , and exemplified by the vital slogan: Not in Our Name! In solidarity, the hope for justice stays alive.

• George Yancy

George   Yancy is the Samuel Candler Dobbs Professor of Philosophy at Emory University and a Montgomery Fellow at Dartmouth College , one of the college's highest honors. He is also the University of Pennsylvania’s inaugural fellow in the Provost’s Distinguished Faculty Fellowship Program (2019-2020 academic year). He is the author, editor and co-editor of over 25 books, including  Black Bodies, White Gazes; Look, A White; Backlash: What Happens When We Talk Honestly about Racism in America; and  Across Black Spaces: Essays and Interviews from an American Philosopher  published by Rowman & Littlefield in 2020 . His most recent books include a collection of critical interviews entitled,  Until Our Lungs Give Out: Conversations on Race, Justice, and the Future (Rowman & Littlefield, 2023), and a coedited book (with philosopher Bill Bywater) entitled,  In Sheep’s Clothing: The Idolatry of White Christian Nationalism  (Roman & Littlefield, 2024).

• Judith Butler

Judith Butler is distinguished professor in the graduate school and formerly the Maxine Elliot Chair in the Department of Comparative Literature and the Program of Critical Theory at the University of California, Berkeley. They are the author of several books:  Subjects of Desire: Hegelian Reflections in Twentieth-Century France  (1987),  Gender Trouble: Feminism and the Subversion of Identity  (1990),  Bodies That Matter: On the Discursive Limits of “Sex”  (1993),  The Psychic Life of Power: Theories of Subjection  (1997),  Excitable Speech  (1997),  Antigone’s Claim: Kinship Between Life and Death  (2000),  Precarious Life: Powers of Violence and Mourning  (2004);  Undoing Gender  (2004),  Who Sings the Nation-State?: Language, Politics, Belonging  (with Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak in 2008),  Frames of War: When Is Life Grievable?  (2009),  Is Critique Secular?  (co-written with Talal Asad, Wendy Brown, and Saba Mahmood, 2009),  Sois Mon Corps  (2011), coauthored with Catherine Malabou,  Parting Ways: Jewishness and the Critique of Zionism  (2012),  Dispossession: The Performative in the Political  (coauthored with Athena Athanasiou 2013),  Senses of the Subject and Notes Toward a Performative Theory of Assembly  (2015), and a co-edited volume,  Vulnerability in Resistance , with Duke University Press (2015),  The Force of Nonviolence  2020, and  What World is This? A Pandemic Phenomenology  (2022). Their most recent book is  Who’s Afraid of Gender  (2024). Their books have been translated into more than 27 languages. Butler has been active in several human rights organizations, including the Center for Constitutional Rights in New York and the advisory board of Jewish Voice for Peace. 

• campus protest
• Editor: Maryellen Stohlman-Vanderveen
• free speech
• public philosophy

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This is a powerful and thought-provoking piece by George Yancy and Judith Butler. Their critique of universities suppressing Gaza protests touches on a crucial issue: the responsibility of academic institutions to uphold democratic values and support free expression. It’s concerning to see how policies can stifle important political activism, limiting the scope of academic freedom. Universities should be spaces that encourage diverse viewpoints and robust debate, not environments that silence dissent. This article is a timely reminder for educational institutions to reassess their policies and truly commit to fostering a democratic and open academic culture. Thank you for shedding light on this pressing issue.

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Georgia Tech Admission Blog

Mindset and approach- a rising senior’s guide to college admission.

Last year I wrote this blog criticizing February , and man did the Feb fans have some words. Wow. Well, now I’m taking the other side of that coin to say that I’m a big fan of May.

First, the weather. Now, maybe you live somewhere I’m not thinking of or unfamiliar with and you have some terrible May situation, but in the South, the pollen is gone, the flowers are out, the bugs and humidity haven’t arrived, and most mornings and evenings are cool.

Also, it’s graduation month (though from this seemingly comprehensive list that is not official). Admittedly, between working at a college, speaking at graduations, and having a disproportionate number of friends and neighbors with graduating students, I have attended my fair share of these. I love the experience because graduations bring together family, present an opportunity for shared celebration of accomplishments, up our nation’s smile: frown ratio, and simultaneously facilitate both healthy reflection and warranted optimism about the future. Generally good times despite uncomfortable garb and predictably unmemorable speeches. Yep, I love a good tassel turn.

Graduation also means the seniors are done. Before you dismiss that one as “sentences that need never to have been written,” hang on. When those caps get picked up and the last selfie has been taken, the juniors take on a unique and important transient identity—RISING SENIORS.

If that’s you—this one’s for you.

RISING INTO COLLEGE ADMISSION

True Success

The longer I do this work and the more students and families I talk to, the more convinced I am that the real goal of college admission is not getting into a particular school. Instead, it is having choices and options . As a rising senior, you inevitably saw this play out with the graduating class. The students most satisfied with their college admission experience are those who felt like they had agency. Ultimately, they picked a college. Does that mean all doors were open? Of course not. But in the end, they got to select a college from several they were excited about. THAT is my hope for you—and not only for college but life well beyond. Freedom is having options. As you rise this summer, spend time thinking about what (not where) you want in a college– and why! Build a list of schools where you would be excited to go. Practice recognizing the difference between “a good school” and a good school for you.

Your walk-up song is playing. Phrases like “dream school,” “top choice,” limit your view of success/happiness and foster zero sum thinking. Keep your head up and your gaze is broad.

Mindset and approach are a choice.

Expect the Unexpected

College Admission is not Fair. Yikes. How’s that for orange juice right after brushing your teeth. Fair is a place they sell cotton candy, cobble together super rickety rides, and judge pigs. (h/t Tim Fields, Emory University). This ain’t that. In the year ahead, you are going to see admission decisions come out that will not make sense to you. Students in your high school will get into colleges you don’t think “they should have.” Worse still- you may see people get into a college you really wanted to go to or get selected for a scholarship you were hoping to receive, while you are dealing with the disappointment of being deferred or denied or waitlisted.

Rising Senior, I’m challenging you in those moments to actually show up for your friends, classmates, and teammates. Celebrating others is a life skill.  Don’t let someone else’s outcomes impact your outlook .

THE admit rate is not YOUR admit rate.

The published admit rate for a school you are considering is 33%. So one of every three applicants is offered admission, and two of three are either denied, waitlisted (and never pulled into the class), or those who fall out of the process along the way (incomplete, cancel application, etc.) As a smart rising senior, you likely did not need me to translate a percentage into multiple sentences, but hey, it’s a blog. It’s what I do.

If you’re applying to a public university, question one is where are you from? Resident and non-resident admission review are completely different committee and consideration conversations. As an example, the University of Florida’s overall admit rate in 2023 was 23%. However, Sunshine State residents were admitted at nearly 60%, while Gator nation admitted Cloudy State residents at less than 20% ( more here ).

Colleges will provide this data on their sites, but another good reference point is the Common Data Sets, primarily in Section C (Search: College Name and Common Data Site). Alternatively, you can check out this blog , which delves into both the CDS and CFD (Clark Family Dynamics).

Does every in-state resident, have the same chance of being admitted to their state’s flagship, even with the same grades, course rigor, or scores?  If your answer starts with an N, keep reading. Otherwise, go back to the beginning. (And by beginning I meant the entire blog, circa 2015. Now you do have some summer reading assignments.)

Ultimately, mission drives admission. Or in wonky admission speak decisions come down to Institutional Priorities – and that leads us far beyond your zip code or state’s initials. As you’ll quickly see in Section C of the CDS, when you apply matters for many schools, particularly for those with Early Decision plans. The “same student” could apply two months earlier and have radically different odds for admission. Major, gender, first-generation status, and other factors will also play in. They will effectively “weight” the roulette ball. Translation: the rural North Dakotan (repetitive?) valedictorian who aces BC Calculus and applies for a Philosophy degree is going to read differently than you. Pack your bags and buy some thermals as you feel compelled.

Knowledge is power. Expectations matter. Mindset and approach are a choice.

Control What You Can Control

Journalists and social media over indexes on the Ivy League and can lead you to believe getting into college is extremely challenging for a talented and motivated rising senior. The truth is that colleges with admit rates under 15% are outposts not signposts in the real landscape of admission world. So contrary to the click bait headlines and hack coverage that dominates college admission beat writing, you are the one in control. *Note in a spirit of May optimism this blog is presuming next year the Fubar FAFSA debacle is behind us.

Where  you apply. There are nearly 4000 colleges and universities in the United States alone. Many of them are already courting you, soliciting you, marketing to you, but ultimately it is  your choice  to apply or not. In other words, you  decide  the five, seven, eleven (please don’t go much higher than that) colleges you are interested in attending.  Where  you apply is totally in your control. Think about it this way- YOU are eliminating 99+% of possible colleges. Talk about highly selective!

Who  offers you admission. So… this would be the part that you DO NOT control. If you or your parents are trying to manipulate or game exactly where you are admitted or how much financial aid you receive, please go watch  The College Admission Scandal .

How  you show up. A little over a year from now you won’t be focused on your approach to college admission, but to the college where you are planning to attend. This is about showing up on Day 1 with a mentality of being all in. In my opinion, is the most important part. You don’t have to look far to find examples of students who ended up miserable at their “dream school.” Conversely, there are countless students who didn’t get in to their “top choice” and wound up tour guides elsewhere, i.e. not only drinking the Kool-Aid but selling it.

Mindset and approach are a choice (as a rising senior, senior, college applicant, college student, and in life well beyond).

Love and Admission

Rising Senior means you are not a kid- not a child. It means you are getting seriously close to leaving home. It means you are going to be away from home way more than you are at home. Many students read those lines and smile. Many parents read those lines…and cry. Then students don’t understand the tears. Parents are conflicted about the smiles. Round and round we go.

Bottom line is college admission is not all about applications or test scores or college decision letters. It’s also about a new chapter in your family’s life. And at 17 or 18, the emotion, gravity, and uncertainty wrapped up in that page flip is impossible to fully grasp. I’m asking you to try.

Listen, I don’t have all the answers, but I know this: most of the crazy stuff parents do and say is really just love in disguise. It sounds like nagging. It sounds like they don’t trust you or are not listening. They know. Right now they’re a little freaked out about the term “rising senior.” To them your high school career has been a blink of the eye. So even when you’re tired, even when it’s the fourth time, even when you have somewhere to be or someone to meet, I’m asking you to be a rising senior, rather than a child. And that means patience, kindness, grace.

Mindset and approach are a choice. Hugging your mama is not. May may be the month we observe Mother’s Day, but every day is a good one to hug your mama!

The summer is here. Your walk-up music is playing. In fact, like you, it is RISING. So Rise!

Author: Rick Clark

Rick Clark is the Executive Director of Strategic Student Access at Georgia Tech. He has served on a number of national advisory and governing boards at the state, regional, and national level. Rick travels annually to U.S. embassies through the Department of State to discuss the admission process and landscape of higher education. He is the co-author of the book The Truth about College Admission: A Family Guide to Getting In and Staying Together, and a companion workbook published under the same title. A native of Atlanta, he earned a B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a M.Ed. from Georgia State University. Prior to coming to Tech, Rick was on the admissions staff at Georgia State, The McCallie School and Wake Forest University. @clark2college View all posts by Rick Clark

Are you seeking one-on-one college counseling and/or essay support? Limited spots are now available. Click here to learn more.

Best MBA Programs in the U.S. – 2024

May 20, 2024

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in business, earning an MBA can help pave the way to success. A Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree opens opportunities for new and experienced business professionals alike to land management-level jobs, work in consulting, and start their own companies. However, getting into a top MBA program can be a difficult feat, so you might want to start preparing early. Continue reading for information on 20 of the top MBA programs in the country.

What should you look for in an MBA program?

Here are a few factors to consider when searching for the right MBA program.

• Areas of focus: Check to see that the school you’re applying for has certificates, centers, and faculty focused on the area of business you would like to pursue. For example, if you plan to go into the fashion industry, NYU Stern could be an especially great fit, while future tech entrepreneurs might consider UC Berkeley or Stanford as top choices, based on their proximity to the Silicon Valley tech scene.
• GMAT scores: Each program’s average GMAT score (out of 805) is listed below. When applying for MBA programs, it’s wise to consider whether your GMAT score is in the school’s average range. The program’s acceptance rate can also help you get a sense of your odds.
• Public vs. private: If you’re worried about the tuition of an MBA program (which can be hefty, to say the least), you may want to consider a public university where you qualify for in-state tuition. Many great public business schools not on this list still offer excellent business programs (UCLA, UNC Chapel Hill, University of Georgia, University of Washington, Ohio State University, and Arizona State University to name a few more great public options).

20 Best MBA programs in the U.S.

Without further ado, continue reading for a list of 20 top MBA programs in the US, based on the most up-to-date US News & World Report rankings. Included, you will find a brief description of opportunities that make the program unique, followed by some useful data on the school.

1)  Stanford University

This two-year MBA program is considered the best in the country by U.S. News & World Report. With the motto “Change lives, change organizations, change the world,” Stanford challenges students to collaborate with equally driven peers and gain global exposure. Students take core and experiential courses with renowned faculty, including Silicon Valley innovators (and many students go on to work in the Silicon Valley tech world, due to proximity and formed connections).

• Location: Stanford, California
• School type: Private
• Acceptance rate: 8.4%
• Average GMAT score: 738
• Test-optional admissions: No
• Graduate enrollment: 873
• Annual tuition: $79,860
• Employed at graduation: 60.9%
• Employed 3 months after graduation: 82.8%
• Specialties: Entrepreneurship, Management, Nonprofit, Marketing, Production, Finance

2) University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)

Wharton boasts its rigorous-yet-flexible curriculum, which allows students to gain an important foundation of knowledge while discovering their passions through electives . Fixed core courses include those in leadership, marketing, microeconomics, statistics, and management communication. Electives allow students to choose courses from other schools at UPenn, from the Graduate School of Education, to the Law School, to the School of Design, to the School of Social Policy & Practice.

• Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Acceptance rate: 24.8%
• Average GMAT score: 728
• Graduate enrollment: 1,754
• Annual tuition: $79,800
• Employed at graduation: 83.9%
• Employed 3 months after graduation: 94.2%
• Specialties: Finance, Executive MBA, Real Estate, Marketing, Accounting, Business Analytics, International

Best MBA Programs in the U.S. (Continued)

3)  northwestern university (kellogg).

The Kellogg School offers several full-time MBA options, including an accelerated 1-year, program, an immersive 2-year program, an AI-focused program, and combined programs with the school of design, the law school, and the medical school at Northwestern. With each of these options, students gain flexible skill-sets and participate in over a dozen research centers.

• Location: Evanston, Illinois
• Acceptance rate: 33.3%
• Average GMAT score: 731
• Graduate enrollment: 1,442
• Annual tuition: $81,015
• Employed at graduation: 85.6%
• Employed 3 months after graduation: 94.8%
• Specialties: Marketing, Executive MBA, Management, Nonprofit

4)  University of Chicago (Booth)

With a highly international student body, 54 countries are represented in Booth’s MBA class of 2025. The program offers four formats: Full-Time MBA, Weekend MBA, Evening MBA, and Global Executive MBA Program. With world-class faculty and an international network, this is a great program for someone looking for a highly rigorous program amidst a dynamic community.

• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Acceptance rate: 32.6%
• Graduate enrollment: 1,307
• Annual tuition: $80,961
• Employed at graduation: 89.3%
• Employed 3 months after graduation: 95%
• Specialties: Finance, Executive MBA, Accounting, Marketing, Business Analytics, Nonprofit

5) Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Sloan)

This 2-year MBA program focuses on the more analytical side of management, including economic analysis, data models, and organizational processes. Students take a wide range of core and elective courses, and often earn certificates which range from Analytics, to Product Management, to Healthcare, to Sustainability. Joint degrees are also offered with the MIT Leaders for Global Operations, the MIT Department of Urban Studies and Planning, and the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.

• Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
• Acceptance rate: 17.8%
• Average GMAT score: 730
• Test-optional admissions: Yes
• Graduate enrollment: 817
• Annual tuition: $86,550
• Employed at graduation: 80.5%
• Employed 3 months after graduation: 90.8%
• Specialties: Business Analytics, Information Systems, Production/Operations, Project Management, Supply Chain/Logistics, Entrepreneurship

6) Harvard University

Harvard’s MBA program emphasizes entrepreneurship, with over 50% of graduates moving on to create their own ventures. This is a top program in terms of capital raised by graduates, as well as graduating female founders of companies. In addition, classes are rooted in case-based and experience-based learning, so students return to the professional field with a vast range of theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

• Location: Boston, Massachusetts
• Acceptance rate: 13.2%
• Graduate enrollment: 1,953
• Annual tuition: $74,910
• Employed at graduation: 70.8%
• Employed 3 months after graduation: 85.2%
• Specialties: Management, Nonprofit, International, Entrepreneurship, Finance

7) New York University (Stern)

NYU Stern offers a range of full-time and part-time MBA options, including the Andre Koo Technology and Entrepreneurship MBA, the Fashion and Luxury MBA, an MBA program based at NYU Abu Dhabi, and eight dual degree programs . The central NYC location offers opportunities for students to put their skills to the test in the field, especially through programs such as the Consulting Lab (in which students work in partnership with companies to solve their branding problems) and the Board Fellows Program (in which students learn what it’s like to be on the board of a nonprofit).

• Location: New York, New York
• Acceptance rate: 31.4%
• Average GMAT score: 732
• Graduate enrollment: 639
• Annual tuition: $84,180
• Employed at graduation: 85.7%
• Employed 3 months after graduation: 94%
• Specialties: Real Estate, Finance, Business Analytics, Executive MBA, International, Information Systems

8) University of California—Berkeley (Haas)

Through leadership development, experiential learning, and a global focus, Haas MBA students develop fluency in business fundamentals and learn how to transform their business visions to realities. Applied innovation courses at Haas include International Business Development, Design Sprint for Corporate Innovation, Sustainable Investment Fund, and Cleantech to Market. Students may also enroll in exchange programs in their second year to study in Hong Kong, Spain, France, or England.

• Location: Berkeley, California
• School type: Public
• Acceptance rate: 23%
• Average GMAT score: 733
• Graduate enrollment: 509
• Annual tuition (in-state): $69,814
• Annual tuition (out-of-state): $82,059
• Employed at graduation: 75.4%
• Specialties: Entrepreneurship, Nonprofit, Real Estate, Business Analytics, Executive MBA, Management, Finance

9) Yale University

The school of management at Yale University offers an integrated MBA program that incorporates global study, team leadership, and case-based learning. The program emphasizes electives for tailoring individual courses of study (75% of MBA students take courses from other departments at Yale, and 14% pursue joint degrees).

• Location: New Haven, Connecticut
• Acceptance rate: 32.9%
• Average GMAT score: 720
• Graduate enrollment: 718
• Annual tuition: $82,200
• Employed at graduation: 81.1%
• Specialties: Nonprofit, Management, Business Analytics, Finance

10) Dartmouth College (Tuck)

Tuck MBA students complete a First-Year Project through which students collaboratively apply learning to complex, real-world issues. The program also includes an Ethics and Responsibility Requirement, so that students can understand how the success of organizations is intertwined with broader ethical issues. Electives that satisfy this requirement range from Business and Climate Change, to Corporate Responsibility, to Managing for Social Impact, to Women, Gender, and Leadership in the Workplace.

• Location: Hannover, New Hampshire
• Acceptance rate: 40.1%
• Average GMAT score: 726
• Graduate enrollment: 580
• Annual tuition: $77,520
• Employed at graduation: 88.4%
• Employed 3 months after graduation: 94.6%
• Specialties: Management, Finance, Marketing

11) University of Virginia (Darden)

The MBA at Darden School of Business offers a 2-year, full-time MBA, as well as a part-time and executive MBA option. Concentrations in the program include Asset Management, Corporate Finance, Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Marketing, Strategy Consulting, Supply Chain Management, Business Analytics, and Environment, Social, & Governance. Electives range from Communication, to Ethics, to Quantitative Analysis.

• Location: Charlottesville, Virginia
• Acceptance rate: 39.4%
• Average GMAT score: 716
• Graduate enrollment: 700
• Annual tuition (in-state): $72,060
• Annual tuition (out-of-state): $74,378
• Employed at graduation: 90.4%
• Employed 3 months after graduation: 95.6%
• Specialties: Executive MBA, Management, Marketing

12) Columbia University

Columbia Business School offers a “comprehensive and forward-looking curriculum,” which prioritizes combining theory and practice, as well as access to leaders in the industry throughout New York City. The program includes over 100 student organizations, a wide range of centers and programs, and a powerful alumni network.

• Acceptance rate: 22.4%
• Average GMAT score: 729
• Graduate enrollment: 1,512
• Annual tuition: $84,496
• Employed at graduation: 73.4%
• Employed 3 months after graduation: 86.7%
• Specialties: Real Estate, Finance, Executive MBA, International, Marketing, Nonprofit

13) Duke University (Fuqua)

Duke offers three MBA options: Daytime (22-month residential program for students with around 3-7 years of experience), Global Executive (18-month international flexible format program for professionals with 5-25 years of experience), and Weekend Executive (10-month flexible format program for professionals with 5-25 years of experience). The residential program offers 16 different concentrations, classroom and experiential learning opportunities, and a strong community of students, alumni, and faculty.

• Location: Durham, North Carolina
• Acceptance rate: 22.1%
• Average GMAT score: 715
• Graduate enrollment: 787
• Annual tuition: $75,000
• Employed at graduation: 86.6%
• Specialties: Marketing, Nonprofit, Executive MBA, Business Analytics

14)  University of Michigan—Ann Arbor (Ross)

Michigan Ross prides itself on its REAL (Ross Experiences in Action-Based Learning) programs, which allow students to launch new business ideas, consult full-time for 7-weeks, manage one of six student-led investment funds, and manage actual businesses. Through the intensive curriculum at Ross, students quickly learn to apply business fundamentals to complex business challenges.

• Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
• Acceptance rate: 38%
• Average GMAT score: 719
• Graduate enrollment: 734
• Annual tuition (in-state): $70,392
• Annual tuition (out-of-state): $75,392
• Employed at graduation: 89.7%
• Employed 3 months after graduation: 96%
• Specialties: Management, Marketing, Production/Operations, Project Management, Accounting, Entrepreneurship

15) Cornell University (Johnson)

Cornell offers a 2-year residential MBA in Ithaca, a 1-year tech MBA based in New York City, and a Tech 1+1 MBA combining the best of both. The residential program offers a strong core curriculum and customizable academic immersion through electives and weekend intensive classes. Students are also offered personalized career coaching.

• Location: Ithaca, New York
• Acceptance rate: 29.9%
• Average GMAT score: 710
• Graduate enrollment: 577
• Annual tuition: $79,910
• Employed at graduation: 87.1%
• Employed 3 months after graduation: 94.5%
• Specialties: Real Estate, Executive MBA, Accounting, Business Analytics, International

16) Carnegie Mellon University (Tepper)

Tepper’s MBA curriculum is informed by a data-informed approach to business decision-making. Students learn analytic approaches through the core curriculum, including optimization, prescriptive modeling, and predictive modeling. In addition, the program includes 14 concentrations and 5 specialized tracks, offering students opportunities to design their own unique pathways forward in the world of business.

• Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• Acceptance rate: 28.5%
• Average GMAT score: 705
• Graduate enrollment: 359
• Annual tuition: $75,712
• Employed at graduation: 87.5%
• Employed 3 months after graduation: 93.4%
• Specialties: Project management, Business Analytics, Information Systems, Supply Chain/Logistics

17) University of Texas—Austin (McCombs)

The full-time MBA at UT Austin offers over 20 concentrations, 14 of which are STEM-certified. Through the Texas McCombs+ program, students are also offered experiential learning opportunities including seminars from industry experts, micro-counseling projects, and access to leadership coaches.

• Location: Austin, Texas
• Acceptance rate: 37.9%
• Average GMAT score: 704
• Graduate enrollment: 454
• Annual tuition (in-state): $51,238
• Annual tuition (out-of-state): $56,814
• Employed at graduation: 80.7%
• Employed 3 months after graduation: 90.9%
• Specialties: Accounting, Information Systems, Project Management, Business Analytics, Real Estate, Entrepreneurship

18) Emory University (Goizueta)

Goizueta MBA students are offered leadership opportunities and career development mentorship from their first semesters, and the support only grows from there. From second semester onward, students form unique curricula by delving into over 90 electives and 20 concentrations. The rest of the Emory MBA experience is also shaped by IMPACT projects, internships, keystones, and advanced professional development.

• Location: Atlanta, Georgia
• Acceptance rate: 39.1%
• Average GMAT score: 709
• Graduate enrollment: 237
• Annual tuition: $71,900
• Employed at graduation: 91.6%
• Employed 3 months after graduation: 96.6%
• Specialties: Accounting, Executive MBA, Management

19)  University of Southern California (Marshall)

Institutes and centers at USC Marshall include the Peter Arkley Institute for Risk Management, the Brittingham Social Enterprise Lab, the Business of Energy Transition Initiative, and the Center for Global Innovation. With the help of the school’s vast connections, graduates become leaders in Entertainment, Technology, and Interactive Gaming, among other industries.

• Location: Los Angeles, California
• Acceptance rate: 22.9%
• Average GMAT score: 708
• Graduate enrollment: 384
• Annual tuition: $76,131
• Employed at graduation: 81.2%
• Employed 3-months after graduation: 91.5%
• Specialties: Accounting, Real Estate, International, Business Analytics, Supply Chain/Logistics

20) Indiana University (Kelley)

At the Kelley School of Business, the MBA experience kicks off with an intensive program in career development and team-building. Throughout the next two years, students can participate in numerous electives, certificate courses, leadership workshops, internships, and more. Opportunities also include studying abroad at a top business school in another country, and exploring the relationship between business and government on the Washington D.C. campus.

• Location: Bloomington, Indiana
• Acceptance rate: 27.3%
• Average GMAT score: 685
• Graduate enrollment: 219
• Annual tuition (in-state): $28,992
• Annual tuition (out-of-state): $54,602
• Employed at graduation: 86.3%
• Employed 3 months after graduation: 93.6%
• Specialties: Entrepreneurship, Accounting, Management, Marketing

Final thoughts – Best MBA Programs 

We hope that this article has provided useful information as you consider possible MBA programs. For further reading on business school success, we recommend the following articles:

• Top Feeders to Business School MBA Programs
• Top 130 GRE Vocabulary Words and How to Study
• 15 Best Business Schools in Europe
• 50 Best Colleges for Finance
• 50 Best Colleges for Business
• Graduate School Admissions

Sarah Mininsohn

With a BA from Wesleyan University and an MFA from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Sarah is a writer, educator, and artist. She served as a graduate instructor at the University of Illinois, a tutor at St Peter’s School in Philadelphia, and an academic writing tutor and thesis mentor at Wesleyan’s Writing Workshop.

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Oops! Ouch! Now What?

First aid basics everyone should know.

By Elizabeth Passarella Illustrations by Ruru Kuo

When a kitchen knife slips and you instinctively grip an injured finger, your first thought — after “Eww, I can’t look” — is probably to stop the bleeding and bandage it up, so you can finish prepping dinner. But not every scrape or bump is straightforward. How deep is too deep for a Band-Aid? What if a burn blisters? Is it a sprain or a break? We asked emergency room doctors, some of whom train paramedics for these exact situations, how to safely assess and handle many mishaps on your own — and when to seek medical help.

Read on to learn about cuts , burns , sprains and breaks , head bumps and goose eggs and insect bites, stings and rashes .

We’ve also included an essential list of supplies .

The most common type:

Kitchen knives are high on the list of hazards, as are jaggedly opened canned goods, cheese graters and mandolines that can slice your fingertips. “And yes, avocados are still the bane of everyone’s existence,” said Dr. Lekshmi Kumar, an associate professor of emergency medicine at Emory University School of Medicine and medical director of emergency medical services at Grady Health System in Atlanta. Broken glass, plus sharp table edges that can cause a gash if you crash into them, are also big culprits.

What to do ASAP:

Immediately apply pressure with a clean cloth to stop the bleeding. This can take up to five minutes, depending on how deep the cut is, and it’s crucial not to peek. “That removes the clotting factors and makes it take longer,” said Dr. Tabitha Cheng, an associate medical director at the U.C.L.A. Center for Prehospital Care. Then rinse the cut under running water (tap is fine), make sure there is no debris in the wound and apply petroleum jelly or an antibiotic cream, like Bacitracin, and a sterile bandage.

How to treat it going forward:

If the cut has edges that easily come together, you can use a liquid bandage to keep it closed and protected; just make sure to let the glue dry before you place a regular bandage on top of it, Dr. Kumar said. For any cut: Once a scab has formed, remove the bandage and let it air out; it will heal better without moisture getting trapped. Watch for signs of infection, like redness around the cut, warmth of the skin, swelling, increased pain or pus. (If it’s itching, that means it’s healing, Dr. Kumar said. “Itching is normal as the skin stretches to heal.”)

When to see a doctor:

Determining if a cut is serious enough to need stitches is complicated. “Even doctors have to sometimes put a Q-Tip in there to see how deep it is,” Dr. Kumar said. Rules of thumb: Cuts on the face (which can scar more awkwardly without stitches), over joints (which gape and don’t stay shut) or near tendons or arteries need urgent medical attention, as does a cut that clearly goes through multiple layers of skin, gapes or doesn’t stop bleeding in five minutes (especially if you are on blood thinners). Also see a doctor if there is debris, like metal or glass, in the cut, or if it starts to show signs of infection. If the sharp implement was dirty or rusty, bacteria can invade the wound, so a doctor should evaluate it. They may also ask if you are up-to-date on tetanus shots, and give you one if necessary.

A word about bites:

All sharp teeth — from dogs, cats or toddlers — carry bacteria and pose an increased risk of infection. Cats, especially, create puncture wounds that are hard to thoroughly clean out, Dr. Cheng said. If a bite breaks the skin but is more like a scrape, you can clean it with warm, soapy water, and treat it at home as you would a cut, checking for signs of infection. Anything deeper or more complicated might require antibiotics. See your primary care physician or head to urgent care.

Small burns from hot pans, curling irons or splattering oil are most common. Considering a home improvement project? Watch out for electrical burns and chemical burns from things like paint thinner.

Call 911 right away for burns that cover a large area of your body — for example, if you spill a pot of boiling pasta water on yourself. “If a burn covers more than 20 percent of an adult’s body or 10 percent of a child’s, even if it’s superficial, it needs immediate attention,” Dr. Kumar said. Get the burned area under room temperature running water (it may be easiest in the bath or shower) while you wait for help to arrive. (Don’t use cold or icy water; the extreme swing in temperatures can further damage the skin.) For small burns, run the wound under room temperature water. Then apply a cooling ointment, like aloe vera gel or topical lidocaine, and cover loosely with a large adhesive bandage or gauze.

Change the dressing a couple of times a day, and watch for signs of infection as you would with a cut. Apply antibiotic cream as the initial stinging subsides. Don’t pop any blister that forms; it’s protective, and burns are more prone to infection than the average cut.

Any burn on the face, genitalia, hands or feet (where scarring on joints can limit movement down the road) should get immediate attention, “preferably at a hospital that has a burn unit,” Dr. Cheng said. Doctors now use the terminology “partial thickness” and “full thickness,” as opposed to second- or third-degree, when discussing burns. A partial or full-thickness burn, no matter how small, should be seen. Telltale signs: extreme redness and immediate blistering, weeping (it’s oozing or appears wet) or a burn that looks pale, mottled or deep within the skin.

What about sunburns?

It’s rare for a sunburn to be serious enough for a hospital visit. You need to, first, get out of the sun; then, apply a gentle moisturizer, cooling gel or aloe vera. Take ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation. Don’t pop your blisters. If blisters look infected, see a doctor. And the next time you go out, remember to wear sunscreen — and reapply it regularly.

Sprains and Breaks

Most sprains, which are injuries to the ligaments that connect your bones and support your joints, occur from sports or exercise. They typically happen to ankles, wrists and knees. Tweaking backs is also a biggie. “For young children, the bone is softer and more flexible because it’s still growing, so many of these injuries are more likely to be a break than a sprain,” said Dr. Nicole Gerber, associate director of clinical services for pediatric emergency medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center.

If you can’t move the injured area at all or if there is a deformity, such as a bump or curve where there shouldn’t be one, go to the hospital, Dr. Kumar said. If you experience constant pain even when you’re not moving, or if there is significant bruising or swelling around the area of the injury, you should also see a doctor, she added. For sprains that don’t fit into these categories, use the R.I.C.E. treatment: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. Ice the area, wrap it with an elastic bandage, take a pain reliever and keep the injury elevated above your heart to help with swelling.

Continue with R.I.C.E., icing for 15 minutes every two to three hours for 24 to 48 hours, or even 72 hours if it’s still swollen. When the swelling has gone down, move the injured area a little — side to side, up and down — so it doesn’t get stiff. “Keeping it wrapped is a gentle reminder to be careful with that body part and let it heal,” Dr. Gerber said.

Determining a break from a sprain can be tricky, especially if there’s no red flag like a finger pointing the wrong way. If there is still significant swelling and pain after a couple of days, and you have a hard time putting weight on the injured area, see a doctor. With children, you may not want to wait that long. “Give a dose of ibuprofen and reassess in one to two hours,” Dr. Gerber said. “Medicine can help with pain and inflammation, but it won’t heal a broken bone.” If pain persists with medication, see a doctor.

Head Bumps and Goose Eggs

Most head bumps are just that: bumps, not concussions. That said, run-of-the-mill goose eggs from falling or banging your head on a cabinet door are treated similarly, even if they are less serious.

First, you need to rule out any signs of concussion; symptoms include loss of consciousness, nausea, vomiting, dizziness or blurred vision. If you are not experiencing those symptoms, lie down with an ice pack and take some acetaminophen. (Steer clear of ibuprofen, doctors say; it can slightly inhibit clotting, which is dangerous if the head injury is severe enough to cause internal bleeding.) If you are on a blood thinner, you should see a doctor to rule out a brain bleed.

Keep resting and taking acetaminophen as needed. Avoid alcohol or other substances that can make a headache worse. That goes for screen time, too.

If you have severe head pain, vomit more than once or are acting confused or experiencing motor or vision changes, head to the E.R. right away or call 911, Dr. Cheng said. If you think it might be a concussion but the symptoms are more mild, take it easy and follow up with your primary care doctor the next day. For any head injury, no matter how small, talk to your doctor if symptoms persist for a week.

Insect Bites, Stings and Rashes

Summer in the great outdoors means mosquito bites , bee stings and reactions to pesky plants like poison ivy and poison oak. Most of these do not cause a serious allergic reaction; they’re just annoying.

“Treatment is pretty similar for all things that itch,” Dr. Gerber said. Take an oral antihistamine, like Claritin or Zyrtec. Benadryl also works, but remember: It’s a sedative. Wash the area with soap and water — especially if you’ve been in contact with poison ivy or oak, since oils from the plants can spread on hands or clothing. Apply a topical itch relief cream like calamine lotion or Benadryl cream. Ice can also help calm stinging.

It’s normal to have a red welt and some pain at the site of a sting or bite. Continue taking antihistamines and apply creams to help with itching. Insect stingers do pierce the skin and can introduce bacteria, so watch for signs of infection (such as increased redness and pain, or pus). If you’ve been in contact with poison ivy or oak, make sure to wash any clothes or towels that touched your skin.

Stings become an emergency when they cause anaphylaxis — which isn’t just about having trouble breathing. Anaphylaxis is defined by affecting two or more of the following systems: skin (a rash like hives appearing in an area besides the spot you were stung), respiratory (feeling like your throat is closing, or wheezing), gastrointestinal (vomiting or diarrhea) or cardiovascular (feeling lightheaded or experiencing a fast heart rate). “The most common are reactions with the skin and respiratory systems,” Dr. Cheng said, but people often aren’t aware of the other two.

Dangerous bites like those from brown recluse or black widow spiders come with other symptoms, such as abdominal cramps, headache, or a bite with a blood blister or crater in it, Dr. Cheng said. If you’re bitten and experience any of those, head to urgent care or the E.R. And check for ticks , which can transmit Lyme-causing bacteria or other pathogens. If a bite has a bull’s-eye rash around it, that’s a sign of Lyme; see a doctor.

Essential First Aid Supplies

Doctors recommended stocking these basic supplies to treat minor injuries. They also suggested including a few items that might save a life while help is on the way, like Narcan for overdoses and a tourniquet (crucial if you use power tools). Taking a CPR course and knowing how to perform the Heimlich maneuver are also excellent ways to ensure you’re prepared in an emergency.

A good first aid kit, like this pick from Wirecutter , will include many of the items on this list. Then it’s just a matter of filling in the blanks.

Adhesive bandages in various sizes

Surgical tape

Liquid bandage

Elastic bandage or wrap, such as an ACE

Petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment

Cooling gel, such as aloe vera or lidocaine

Thermometer ( Wirecutter picks )

Fine-point tweezers , to remove splinters or debris from a cut ( Wirecutter picks )

Sterile saline solution , to use as an eye wash

Narcan (Learn how to administer it with this video )

Emergency contact and health insurance information

Condition-specific essentials , like an EpiPen or glucose tablets

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