Every application season, Dartmouth College invites prospective students to share their unique stories and perspectives through its carefully crafted supplemental essays. For the 2024-2025 application cycle, Dartmouth presents a two-part essay prompt that delves into what draws you to Dartmouth and invites you to respond to one of seven thought-provoking questions. Let's explore how you can approach these prompts to create a compelling application.

The 2024-2025 Dartmouth Supplemental Essay Prompts

Required of all applicants:

"As you seek admission to Dartmouth’s Class of 2029, what aspects of the college’s academic program, community, and/or campus environment attract your interest? How is Dartmouth a good fit for you?" (100 words)

Choose one of the following prompts (250 words or fewer):

1. "There is a Quaker saying: Let your life speak. Describe the environment in which you were raised and the impact it has had on the person you are today."

2. "‘Be yourself,’ Oscar Wilde advised. ‘Everyone else is taken.’ Introduce yourself."

3. "What excites you?"

4. "Labor leader and civil rights activist Dolores Huerta recommended a life of purpose. ‘We must use our lives to make the world a better place to live, not just to acquire things,’ she said. ‘That is what we are put on the earth for.’ In what ways do you hope to make—or are you already making—an impact? Why? How?"

5. "In ‘Oh, The Places You’ll Go,’ Dr. Seuss invites us to ‘Think and wonder. Wonder and think.’ Imagine your anticipated academic major: How does that course of study sync with Dr. Seuss’s advice to you?"

6. "The social and family interactions of wild chimpanzees have been the focus of Dame Jane Goodall’s research for decades. Her understanding of animal behavior prompted the English primatologist to see a lesson for human communities as well: ‘Change happens by listening and then starting a dialogue with the people who are doing something you don’t believe is right.’ Channel Dame Goodall: Tell us about a moment when you engaged in a difficult conversation or encountered someone with an opinion or perspective that was different from your own. How did you find common ground?"

7. "Celebrate your nerdy side."

8. "It’s not easy being green…’ was the frequent refrain of Kermit the Frog. How has difference been a part of your life, and how have you embraced it as part of your identity, outlook or sense of purpose?"

9. "Buddy Teevens ’79 was a legendary and much beloved coach at Dartmouth. He often told parents: ‘Your son will be a great football player when it’s football time, a great student when it’s academic time, and a great person all of the time.’ If Coach Teevens had said that to you, what would it mean to be ‘a great person’?"

How to Tackle the Dartmouth Supplemental Essays

Now that we’ve laid out the prompts, let’s dive into how you can approach each essay. Remember, these essays are opportunities to showcase your unique qualities, passions, and fit for Dartmouth College. To get personalized help and feedback, consider using Sups AI, an AI college counseling platform that has already helped 10,000 students gain admission to top universities.

1. What attracts you to Dartmouth?

In just 100 words, you need to concisely express why Dartmouth stands out to you. Research specific programs, professors, clubs, or aspects of the campus that align with your interests and goals. Convey your enthusiasm clearly and connect it to your personal or academic journey.

For instance, if you’re passionate about environmental science, you might mention Dartmouth’s sustainable practices and the Dartmouth Organic Farm. Showing this level of specificity not only demonstrates your genuine interest but also shows you've done your homework.

2. Choose Your Second Prompt Carefully

• Quaker Saying: This prompt offers a chance to reflect on your upbringing. Discuss the values imparted to you and connect them to the way you approach life and learning.

• “Be yourself,” Oscar Wilde: This prompt is an invitation to present your true self. Highlight your passions, quirks, and what makes you uniquely you.

• What excites you: This essay is perfect for showcasing your enthusiasm and curiosity. Be honest about what truly thrills you, whether it’s a hobby, a field of study, or an idea.

• Dolores Huerta: Discuss any community service, activism, or projects you’re involved in. Detail your motivations and what you hope to achieve.

• Dr. Seuss’s Advice: Explain how your major aligns with your dreams and how it encourages you to think critically and creatively.

• Dame Jane Goodall: Share an experience where you navigated conflicting opinions or had a tough conversation. Highlight what you learned from the encounter.

• Embrace your nerdy side: This is your chance to geek out about a subject you love. Dive deep into what truly fascinates you and why.

• Kermit the Frog: Discuss how being different has shaped you. Share ways you've embraced your uniqueness and how it informs your world view.

• Buddy Teevens’s Quote: Reflect on what it means to you to be a well-rounded person. Connect your thoughts to aspects of your life where you strive to excel.

When tackling these prompts, brainstorm deeply and consider multiple perspectives before settling on an approach. Leverage Sups AI for brainstorming sessions or essay feedback, as they can provide tailored advice and connect you with students who have successfully navigated the Dartmouth admissions process.

Final Thoughts

Writing Dartmouth’s supplemental essays is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your strengths and align your personal and academic aspirations with what Dartmouth offers. Remember, authenticity is key. Dartmouth admissions officers are looking for genuine passion and a good fit for their community.

Consider utilizing Sups AI for an additional edge in your application process. With access to one-on-one chats with current students and personalized feedback, you can refine your essays to perfection.

Good luck with your Dartmouth College application, and may your essays truly represent the best of who you are!