Applying to the University of Pennsylvania? You're in luck because Penn has crafted two thoughtful essay prompts to understand you better. For the 2024-2025 application cycle, you'll need to write two supplemental essays with a word limit of 200 words each. These prompts are:

Required: Write a short thank-you note to someone you have not yet thanked and would like to acknowledge. (We encourage you to share this note with that person, if possible, and reflect on the experience!)

Required: How will you explore community at Penn? Consider how Penn will help shape your perspective, and how your experiences and perspective will help shape Penn.

Approaching the Prompts

The first essay prompt asks for a thank-you note. This might seem simple, but it’s an excellent way to show gratitude and reflect on your relationships. Think about someone important in your life who you haven't yet had the chance to thank. Maybe it's a teacher, family member, or even a friend. Be sincere and specific in your gratitude. Penn wants to see your ability to appreciate others and recognize those who have impacted you. Need help brainstorming? Sups AI can assist by generating ideas and providing feedback to perfect your note.

The second prompt asks you to envision your future at Penn. Reflect on how you will engage with the university community. Are there clubs, research opportunities, or social initiatives you're excited about? Describe how Penn's unique environment will shape your growth and how you’ll contribute to the campus. Perhaps you're passionate about community service or eager to join a particular academic group. For nuanced advice and a deeper understanding of how to tailor your response, consider chatting with current Penn students via Sups AI. They've already helped over 10k students get admitted to top schools, including Penn!

School-Specific Tips

Thank-You Note: Here, specific details are crucial. Instead of saying a general “thank you,” be precise about what actions or characteristics you are grateful for. Mention specific moments or lessons. This will make your note more impactful and genuine.

Exploring Community: Dive into Penn’s resources and highlight what aligns with your interests. Mention specific student organizations, faculty, or unique initiatives. Demonstrate how these resources will enrich your experience and how you, in turn, will bring your unique perspective to Penn. By showing that you’ve researched and are genuinely excited about Penn, you distinguish yourself from other applicants. If you need help perfecting this approach, don't hesitate to use Sups AI for personalized feedback and one-on-one chats with current students who can offer insider advice.

These essays are a brilliant way to showcase your fit for Penn. Take your time to reflect and craft responses that genuinely represent who you are. And remember, if you're stuck or need constructive feedback, Sups AI is an invaluable resource for making your essays shine!