How to Write the Brown University 2024-2025 Supplemental Essays
As you set your sights on applying to Brown University, one of the most compelling aspects to consider is their unique supplemental essays. For the 2024-2025 application cycle, Brown has structured prompts that not only invite you to showcase your academic interests but also your personal reflections and joys. Let’s dive deep into understanding these prompts and strategies to make your application unforgettable.
Understanding Brown’s Supplemental Essay Prompts
The Brown University supplemental essays include the following prompts and word counts:
Academic Interests: Brown’s Open Curriculum allows students to explore broadly while also diving deeply into their academic pursuits. Tell us about any academic interests that excite you, and how you might pursue them at Brown. (200-250 words)
Personal Reflection: Students entering Brown often find that making their home on College Hill naturally invites reflection on where they came from. Share how an aspect of your growing up has inspired or challenged you, and what unique contributions this might allow you to make to the Brown community. (200-250 words)
Source of Joy: Brown students care deeply about their work and the world around them. Students find contentment, satisfaction, and meaning in daily interactions and major discoveries. Whether big or small, mundane or spectacular, tell us about something that brings you joy. (200-250 words)
Descriptors: What three words best describe you? (3 words)
Extracurricular Commitment: What is your most meaningful extracurricular commitment, and what would you like us to know about it? (100 words)
Teach a Class: If you could teach a class on any one thing, whether academic or otherwise, what would it be? (100 words)
Why Brown?: In one sentence, Why Brown? (50 words)
Approaching Each Supplemental Essay Prompt
1. Academic Interests (200-250 words)
Brown's Open Curriculum is one of its most defining features. Use this essay to show not just your academic passions, but how you plan to leverage the flexibility that Brown offers.
Tips:
Be Specific: Mention particular courses, professors, or research opportunities that align with your interests.
Show Interdisciplinary Interests: Highlight how you’ll integrate different fields of study.
Use Personal Stories: Explain how your past experiences have shaped your interests.
2. Personal Reflection (200-250 words)
This prompt is your chance to share a part of your personal history that has shaped who you are. Reflect on challenges or inspirations and connect them to the contributions you will make to the Brown community.
Tips:
Reflect Deeply: Think about significant moments in your upbringing.
Show Growth: How have these experiences influenced your character or aspirations?
Consider Impact: How will your background enrich the Brown community?
Use Sups AI to brainstorm and get feedback on how to best articulate these personal reflections. Their platform offers one-on-one chats with current students who can provide unique insights.
3. Source of Joy (200-250 words)
This prompt invites you to share something that brings you genuine happiness. Whether it is a simple pleasure or a grand passion, reflect on its significance in your life.
Tips:
Be Authentic: Choose something that genuinely makes you happy.
Explain Why: Go beyond describing the joy; delve into why it matters to you.
Show Personality: Let your individuality shine through.
Utilize Sups AI to refine your thoughts and ensure your essay radiates your true self.
4. Descriptors (3 words)
In just three words, you get to convey a snapshot of your personality. Choose descriptors that are specific and unique to you.
5. Extracurricular Commitment (100 words)
Discuss an extracurricular activity that holds significant meaning to you. What did you learn, and how has it shaped your ambitions?
Tips:
Focus on Impact: Detail your role and its significance.
Personal Insight: Reflect on personal growth through the activity.
6. Teach a Class (100 words)
If given the chance, what subject would you teach? This is an opportunity to showcase your passions and expertise.
Tips:
Be Original: Propose a class that reflects your unique interests.
Describe Engagement: How would you teach this subject?
7. Why Brown? (50 words)
In one concise sentence, explain why Brown University is the right fit for you.
Tips:
Be Precise: Avoid general statements.
Show Fit: Highlight specific aspects of Brown that align with your goals.
Remember, the supplemental essays are your chance to show Brown University who you are beyond grades and test scores. For personalized advice and ideas, consider using Sups AI to help craft essays that stand out. Sups has already assisted thousands of students in gaining acceptance to top universities by offering actionable feedback and unique insights.
