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How to Write the Vanderbilt University Essay 2024-2025

Vanderbilt University is located in Nashville, Tennessee, and is a selective research university comprised of three undergraduate colleges: the College of Arts & Sciences, the School of Engineering, and the top-ranked Peabody College of Education and Human Development.

Vanderbilt prides itself on its balance between high academic standards and a supportive, involved student community, and is consistently ranked as having some of the happiest students in the country. With an admissions rate that has fallen to less than 5% for the Regular Decision round in recent years, acceptance is highly competitive and deeply coveted.

For the 2024-2025 application cycle, Vanderbilt requires one supplemental essay, which references the school’s exceptional reputation. Let’s break the prompt down, and learn how to write an outstanding essay that will set you apart within Vanderbilt’s highly competitive applicant pool.

Read this Vanderbilt essay example written by a real accepted student to inspire your writing!

Vanderbilt University Supplemental Essay Prompt

Vanderbilt university’s motto, crescere aude, is latin for “dare to grow.” in your response, reflect on how one or more aspects of your identity, culture, or background has played a role in your personal growth, and how it will contribute to our campus community as you dare to grow at vanderbilt., please provide your response in approximately 250 words. (200-400 words).

The prompt falls under the Diversity Essay archetype, which means Vanderbilt wants to learn how your background or identity has impacted your worldview and, in turn, your approach to life. Colleges use this prompt because they want to build classes that are diverse along many dimensions, not just the standard ones people associate with diversity.

What makes your background diverse could be your race and ethnicity, gender, language, socioeconomic class, illness and disability, country of origin, culture, religion, or even interests or hobbies. Think about these factors and identify the different communities you’re a part of. 

Remember to consider aspects of your identity like competing on a team or even participation in an internet forum – even if these features may seem silly, our hobbies and personal passions can be just as meaningful as more traditional traditional communities, and can sometimes even do more to set you apart, as other students are less likely to write about them. The only thing that matters is choosing something that has significantly impacted your development.

Then, consider the emotions you feel about being part of that community, or claiming that identity, and any personality traits you might have developed as a result. Alternatively, do you have any distinctive skills or talents because of your background? Brainstorm two to three formative or otherwise significant experiences you’ve had because of your membership in this community to help you get inspired.

A quick note if you intend to write about your racial background: in June 2023, the United States Supreme Court struck down the use of affirmative action in college admissions. The ruling, however, still allows colleges to consider race on an individual basis, which is one reason many schools are now including diversity prompts as one of their supplemental essay prompts. 

If you feel that your racial background has impacted you significantly, this is the place to discuss that. Of course, you are more than welcome to discuss something else, but do be aware that if you don’t discuss your racial background here (or in your personal statement), Vanderbilt will be unable to factor that aspect of your identity into their decision.

Regardless of which attribute of diversity you choose, you should strive for individuality and specificity in your response. Remember, college essays are an opportunity to showcase your unique life perspective. You don’t want to waste this opportunity by writing down some bland dictionary definitions or cliché statements. 

Instead, think of what diversity means to you personally, and some aspect of your life that reflects that value. From there, think of personal anecdotes or stories about how diversity has contributed to your growth or development as a person – remember that showing, rather than simply telling, your points will make your essay much more compelling.

Follow the advice below in order to avoid common mistakes: 

Don’t solely write about negative experiences. You may have had negative experiences as a result of your background or identity. While it’s generally fine to mention adversity, college essays usually want to see a positive outcome or lesson at the conclusion, to make your story one of growth and resilience, rather than solely hardship.

Example: “Growing up as a first-generation Egyptian-American, I always felt out of place, and struggled to balance the expectations of my parents with the reality of being raised in the U.S. I remember being embarrassed when they spoke to me in Arabic in front of my friends, which made me want to distance myself from my culture. I never really fit in with the other kids at school, and this made me feel isolated. 

Because of these struggles, I developed a strong sense of independence and learned how to take care of myself. However, these experiences have also left me feeling disconnected from both my Egyptian roots and American culture. At Vanderbilt, I hope to find a community where I finally feel like I belong and can start fresh.”

Although this writer does briefly touch on independence and self-sufficiency, which are positive traits, and vaguely gestures at hoping for a fresh start at Vanderbilt, the overall tone of the essay is negative. As a result, admissions officers may wonder what they took away from this experience that will allow them to thrive in college.

There are a few different ways this student could fix this problem. For example, they could spend more time fleshing out the positive qualities they developed as a result of this experience, or they could go into more detail about the community they’re hoping to find at Vanderbilt, by citing particular clubs or programs that they think will help them find the community they’ve been missing.

Either of these approaches would show what the student has learned from overcoming this hardship, rather than keeping the focus solely on the hardship itself.

Don’t use a cliché topic like immigration, traveling, or moving. These events are very common, and it’s fine if they’re part of your background, but don’t make the entire essay centered around these clichés.

Example: “My journey as an immigrant from Mexico to the United States has shaped every aspect of who I am today. When I was six years old, my family moved to the U.S. in search of a better life. We faced many challenges, including learning a new language, adapting to a different culture, and dealing with financial hardships. 

Despite these obstacles, my parents always encouraged me to work hard and never give up on my dreams. Their sacrifices motivated me to excel in school and become the first person in my family to attend college. I am proud of my heritage and the hard work it took to get here. 

At Vanderbilt, I plan to continue this journey of success and make my parents proud by achieving great things. I hope to join cultural organizations that celebrate diversity and share my story with others to inspire them to overcome their own challenges. My experiences as an immigrant have taught me resilience, and I am eager to bring this determination to Vanderbilt.”

Of course, we don’t want to discount how impactful immigrating to a new country can be. The problem is not that the experience isn’t meaningful enough – rather, it’s that many other people have had a similar one, and taken away similar lessons from it. 

Instead of focusing on these clichés, you could briefly provide context about immigrating from Mexico, and then focus on a less common aspect of your experience and give a more personal takeaway. For example, you could talk about how playing soccer with the kids in your neighborhood gave you a shared cultural touchpoint that was invaluable as you were acclimating to life in the US.

Don’t write a laundry list of identities and demographics. Like we already said, this prompt isn’t just about who you are; it’s about what you’ve experienced that made you who you are, and how you see the world because of this part of yourself. Make sure to provide deeper analysis – most of the essay should be about your reflections and growth, and the evolution of your worldview, not just the traits themselves. Remember – quality over quantity.

Example: “My identity is a combination of many different aspects. I am a first-generation Vietnamese-American, a daughter of immigrant parents, and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community. I also come from a low-income background, which has taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. Additionally, I’m a female student who is passionate about pursuing a career in STEM, a field where women are often underrepresented. 

Each of these identities has played a role in shaping who I am today. Being Vietnamese-American has connected me to my cultural roots, while my experience as a first-generation college student motivates me to succeed. My LGBTQ+ identity has taught me to embrace who I am, and my low-income background has given me the determination to overcome obstacles. I believe that all these aspects of my identity will allow me to contribute to the diversity at Vanderbilt.”

Because this student is so focused on covering all aspects of her identity, we get only a shallow understanding of each one’s significance to her broader life. If she were to have instead focused on just, say, being part of the LGBTQ+ community, she would have had room to provide examples of how she came to accept this part of herself, for example by describing her friends’ kindness when she came out to them.

We know there’s more than one feature of your life you’ll want to highlight in your response, and leaving things out can feel frustrating. But unfortunately, word counts are an unavoidable part of the college application process.

Generally, you should only briefly introduce the culture, background, community, or other driver of the values you’re exploring in your essay. You should be specific and clear about which community or group you’re referencing, but you then want to quickly dive deep into its impact on your life as a whole.

This deep dive should make up most of your essay. Analyze your current and past emotions about this aspect of your identity, and how it has shaped your worldview. With the limited word count, prioritize including information about the impact of your values and background over the mere nature or description of your identity.

Finally, given Vanderbilt’s inclusion of their “dare to grow” motto, you should demonstrate how your background has emboldened you to grow personally, and how it will continue to do so at Vanderbilt. Think about times you exhibited leadership or kindness, or took a risk, and connect these instances to the part of your identity you’re focusing on. A growth-oriented mindset is key here, so be sure to highlight the way your background helped you evolve in your personal values, ambitions, and accomplishments.

Also  note that the prompt specifically asks you to relate your chosen background to possible contributions to the Vanderbilt community. Depending on what you’re writing about, it might be beneficial to research extracurricular campus groups at Vanderbilt or in the Nashville area that align with your identity. Including these specific details demonstrates your deep interest in the school, and commitment to being an active member of its tightly knit community.

Now, let’s explore a possible example of a strong response to the prompt:

“Every weekend, our small apartment in Queens transformed into a hub of activism. Friends and neighbors would gather around our worn dining table, their voices rising and falling in animated Arabic as they discussed the latest political unrest in Egypt. I often found myself translating news articles or drafting letters to officials on behalf of my parents, who had fled political persecution decades earlier. Although I was born in the U.S., the struggles of my parents’ homeland shaped me profoundly, instilling in me a deep sense of responsibility to fight for justice.” 

Here the writer begins with a vivid hook to provide a narrative to their essay. Specific details about translating news articles and drafting letters in a busy, chatter-filled apartment construct a tangible picture of their background and its values. Furthermore, the Egyptian community they describe their family being part of in Queens implies that the writer has a significant connection to a cultural group in their hometown, and prioritizes being part of one.

“When I was fourteen, I organized my first protest in support of the Arab Spring. It was a modest gathering of around twenty people, but it ignited a passion in me. Seeing the impact we could have, even on a small scale, made me realize the power of collective action. This experience drove me to join a youth-led advocacy group in New York, where I spearheaded campaigns to raise awareness about immigrant rights and helped secure legal aid for families facing deportation. I became the voice for those who couldn’t speak for themselves, just as my parents had once relied on others to speak for them.”

The writer continues by detailing examples of their leadership and boldness within the context of their cultural and ethnic background, thus clearly showing how this aspect of their identity has driven their personal growth. As their activism grows in scale from a small gathering to participation in a formal advocacy group, they also grow personally into a bolder, more involved Egyptian-American activist.

“At Vanderbilt, I’m eager to bring my passion for social justice to the campus community. I envision joining the Vanderbilt Political Review and participating in the Ingram Scholars Program to further my advocacy work. I also want to contribute to the growing immigrant population in Nashville by working with local organizations to support refugee resettlement efforts. I know that at Vanderbilt, I will find a community that shares my commitment to daring to grow through action, and I am excited to continue the work that began around my family’s dining table.”

Finally, the writer makes an authentic connection to Vanderbilt by envisioning themself participating in specific campus and local groups related to the causes they first became involved with through their cultural background. As a whole, this example is profoundly personal with plenty of details, and is also forward-facing, with a clear demonstration of how the writer will use their background and individual values to engage with the Vanderbilt and broader Nashville communities.

The best essays will provide a reflective, personal narrative that looks not just into the past, but also towards a future of engagement and contribution at Vanderbilt. Authenticity, detail, and growth should be the pillars of your response.

CollegeVine wishes you the best of luck in your admissions process!

Where to Get Your Vanderbilt University Essay Edited For Free

Do you want feedback on your Vanderbilt 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. 

Need feedback faster? Get a free, nearly-instantaneous essay review from Sage, our AI tutor and advisor. Sage will rate your essay, give you suggestions for improvement, and summarize what admissions officers would take away from your writing. Use these tools to improve your chances of acceptance to your dream school!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Personal Essay and Short Answer Prompts

Personal essay prompts.

To help us get to know you in the application review process, you are required to submit a personal essay. For insight and advice about how to approach writing your personal essay, see our Expert Advice page. 

• Common Application first-year essay prompts
• Common App transfer essay prompt: Please provide a personal essay that addresses your reasons for transferring and the objectives you hope to achieve.
• Coalition, powered by Scoir first-year and transfer essay prompts

Short Answer Question

For both first-year and transfer applicants, we ask you to complete a short answer essay (approximately 250 words) based on the following prompt:

• Vanderbilt University’s motto, Crescere aude , is Latin for “dare to grow.” In your response, reflect on how one or more aspects of your identity, culture, or background has played a role in your personal growth, and how it will contribute to our campus community as you dare to grow at Vanderbilt.

Vanderbilt University 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 1

You Have: 

Vanderbilt University 2024-25 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 1 essay of 250 words

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Community ,   Diversity

Vanderbilt decided to keep it short and sweet, so we’ll follow suit. A one-question supplement means you’ve got one shot at perfection. No pressure, though.

Vanderbilt Essay Prompt Breakdown

For both first-year and transfer applicants, we ask you to complete a short answer essay (approximately 250 words) based on the following prompt:, vanderbilt university’s motto, crescere aude, is latin for “dare to grow.” in your response, reflect on how one or more aspects of your identity, culture, or background has played a role in your personal growth, and how it will contribute to our campus community as you dare to grow at vanderbilt..

Vanderbilt wants to know what has made you into the person you are today. What you focus on here can really run the gamut, but it should be something that you feel will not only speak to your personal growth journey, but also help you to contribute to Vandy’s community in a unique way. Is there anything you can teach your classmates about your culture, identity, or background that they might not already know? What has influenced your identity? What do you believe and how will your life experiences bring something of value to the community at Vanderbilt? To make an impact, you’ll want to take some time for reflection before you begin writing this essay. How have you dared to grow in the past, and how will you continue embodying Vandy’s motto on campus? 

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Vanderbilt Supplemental Essays 2024-25 – Prompts and Advice

August 23, 2024

With an acceptance rate of just 5% for the 2024-25 entering class, Vanderbilt has become one of the more selective schools in the United States. It’s easy for prospective applicants who can claim a 99th percentile score and a position near the top of their high school class to feel overly confident when applying to a university of this ilk. Yet, it is critical to realize that, in 2024, the median SAT at Vandy is over 1500, and just about every admitted student finished near the top of their high school class. This brings us to the topic of this blog – the Vanderbilt supplemental essays.

(Want to learn more about How to Get Into Vanderbilt? Visit our blog entitled:  How to Get Into Vanderbilt University: Admissions Data and Strategies  for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

When applying to Vanderbilt, you can’t just rely on your fabulous grades and test scores to carry you toward an eventual acceptance letter. You need those credentials, of course, but you also need to pour every ounce of effort into other components of the application in order to separate yourself in the eyes of the admissions committee. The Common App and supplemental essay present just that opportunity.

Below is Vanderbilt’s supplemental essay for the 2024-25 admissions cycle along with our advice for composing a winning essay.

Vanderbilt Supplemental Essay Prompt

Vanderbilt University’s motto, Crescere aude, is Latin for “dare to grow.” In your response, reflect on how one or more aspects of your identity, culture, or background has played a role in your personal growth, and how it will contribute to our campus community as you dare to grow at Vanderbilt.

Please provide your response in approximately 250 words.

Look, if you had one shot, or one opportunity (Eminem beat starts to ramp up)…While many highly-selective colleges offer two, three, or even more supplemental prompts, Vandy only offers this single essay. In it, they want you to briefly discuss how an aspect of your identity, culture, or background has influenced you (and how it will enable you to contribute to Vanderbilt). So, the question is, how to make your response to such a basic prompt really count?

Firstly, take note of the wide-open nature of this prompt. You are essentially invited to talk about any of the following topics:

• A perspective you hold
• An experience/challenge you had
• A community you belong to
• Your cultural background
• Your religious background
• Your family background
• Your sexual orientation or gender identity

Vanderbilt Supplemental Essay — Continued

Although this prompt’s open floor plan may feel daunting, a good tactic is to first consider what has already been communicated within your Common App personal statement and activities list. What important aspect(s) of yourself have not been shared (or sufficiently discussed)? The admissions officer reading your essay is hoping to connect with you through your written words, so—within your essay’s reflection—be open, humble, thoughtful, inquisitive, emotionally honest, mature, and/or insightful about what you learned and how you grew.

You’ll then need to discuss how your background/identity/experiences have influenced how you hope to contribute to Vandy’s social or academic community. For example, perhaps growing up in Northern California has made you passionate about post-wildfire ecosystem restoration, which you hope to pursue further through Vanderbilt’s environmental science program. Or, perhaps your experience as a tutor has made you interested in continuing that effort at Vandy , or the discrimination you watched your sibling face after revealing their gender identity has informed your desire to be part of initiatives, events, and trainings facilitated by the K.C. Potter Center for LGBTQI Life .

To that end, be sure you address how you will take advantage of Johns Hopkins’s immense resources. These resources could be inside and/or outside of the classroom. You can accomplish this by citing specific  academic programs ,  professors ,  research opportunities , study abroad programs ,  student-run organizations , etc.

How important are the Vanderbilt supplemental essays?

The essays (both the Common App essay and supplemental essay) are “very important” to the Vanderbilt admissions committee . This places them in the same category as: GPA, standardized test scores, class rank, the rigor of your secondary school record, extracurriculars, and character/personal qualities. In short, the Vanderbilt supplemental essays are among the most important factors to the University when evaluating your application.

Want Personalized Essay Assistance?

If you are interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your Vanderbilt supplemental essays, we encourage you to get a quote  today.

Looking for additional writing resources? Consider checking out the following:

• Common App Essay Prompts
• 10 Instructive Common App Essay Examples
• College Application Essay Topics to Avoid
• How to Quickly Format Your Common App Essay
• Should I Complete Optional College Essays?
• How to Brainstorm a College Essay
• 25 Inspiring College Essay Topics
• “Why This College?” Essay Examples
• How to Write the Community Essay
• College Essay

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A licensed counselor and published researcher, Andrew's experience in the field of college admissions and transition spans two decades. He has previously served as a high school counselor, consultant and author for Kaplan Test Prep, and advisor to U.S. Congress, reporting on issues related to college admissions and financial aid.

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How To Write The Vanderbilt Supplemental Essay + Examples

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 4/25/24

If you need help writing the Vanderbilt supplemental essay, read this guide to learn everything you need to know about it, including essay prompts and examples! 

You may feel pressured before applying because of Vanderbilt’s competitive applicant pool. Don’t worry; everyone must start somewhere. If you need more assistance, read our comprehensive guide to getting into Vanderbilt University . 

As you start building your college list , you must decide what you look for in a school. You must balance the college application process well and spend enough time on each school. If Vanderbilt is on your college list, read this article to learn how to write the Vanderbilt supplemental essay. 

We will break down the question, share tips on answering the prompts, and provide examples of successful essays.

Vanderbilt University Supplemental Essay Prompts 2023-2024

In addition to the essay requirements for the Common, Coalition, and QuestBridge Apps, Vanderbilt has one required supplemental essay. Having to write one essay has its benefits and disadvantages. You can focus on your response and make it as excellent as possible. However, you may prefer to have more options to consider before writing.

The following prompts can be found on the Vanderbilt admissions page .

“Vanderbilt University values learning through contrasting points of view. We understand that our differences, and our respect for alternative views and voices, are our greatest source of strength. Please reflect on conversations you’ve had with people who have expressed viewpoints different from your own. How did these conversations/experiences influence you?”

“Vanderbilt offers a community where students find balance between their academic and social experiences. Please briefly elaborate on how one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences has influenced you.”

Both of these supplemental essay prompts have a 250-word limit. Make sure you choose the essay prompts you know you can answer well! 

How to Write Each Essay Prompt For Vanderbilt University

Here, we’ll cover how to write each essay prompt for Vanderbilt University. 

How to Write Vanderbilt University Supplemental Essay #1 + Analysis and Tips

Vanderbilt University prompt #1 : “Vanderbilt University values learning through contrasting points of view. We understand that our differences, and our respect for alternative views and voices, are our greatest source of strength. Please reflect on conversations you’ve had with people who have expressed viewpoints different from your own. How did these conversations/experiences influence you?” 

Analysis of prompt #1 : This prompt wants you to reflect on conversations you’ve had with people who have expressed viewpoints different from yours. The prompt is looking at how you handle discussions with people with different viewpoints. 

This prompt can also be considered a diversity essay, which Vanderbilt includes because the school values all walks of life. 

Here are some tips to help you write this prompt:

1. Tip #1: Choose a Conversation : To choose the best conversation to talk about in your essay, ask yourself the following questions:

• What are my beliefs and values?
• How do others respond to these beliefs?
• What is one belief I have that others contest or oppose?
• How has this belief changed over time?
• Has anyone influenced this belief? 
• What points of the opposition can I agree with?
• Why is it important to discuss differing views on things?

Remember, you aren’t simply relaying a conversation with a friend to the committee. You’re explaining how you respond to opposing views, demonstrate respect for differences, and, most importantly, how you grow because of them! 

2. Tip #2: Identify the Different Viewpoints : Clearly explain the contrasting viewpoints you encountered. Highlight the key differences between the viewpoints without judgment. You'll want to convey your ability to engage with diverse perspectives and how those interactions have shaped your thinking.

3. Tip #3: Highlight What You Learned : Explore how the conversation expanded your understanding of the topic. Discuss any new information or perspectives that you gained. Vanderbilt is looking to see if you’re willing to learn from opposing views, so if you learned anything from the conversation, make sure to add it! 

How to Write Vanderbilt University Supplemental Essay #2 + Analysis and Tips

Vanderbilt University prompt #2 : “Vanderbilt offers a community where students find balance between their academic and social experiences. Please briefly elaborate on how one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences has influenced you.”

Analysis of prompt #2 : This essay asks you to talk about one of your extracurriculars, so it should be an activity or experience that matters the most to you. Vanderbilt values extracurricular activity and emphasizes students having a balance when it comes to their academics. 

1 . Tip #1: Choose an Extracurricular : Start with a self-reflection and brainstorming session instead. Put together a list of everything you do outside of your schoolwork, even if it’s not with a formal club or job. It may be an initiative you started, a volunteering experience, or an internship. 

Your response should not list your extracurriculars since you have already done that in another part of your application.

2. Tip #2: Highlight Transferable Skills : Identify and highlight the skills you gained from the experience that are transferable to both academic and social settings. This could include teamwork, leadership, communication, or organizational skills.

3. Tip #3: Discuss Impact on Academic Performance : Explain how participating in the extracurricular activity or work experience positively impacted your academic performance. This could be through improved focus, discipline, or understanding of your learning style.

Examples of Vanderbilt University Supplemental Essays That Worked

Below, you’ll find some Vanderbilt University supplemental essays written by successful applicants who were admitted to the school! Let’s look at each one and discuss what worked about it.

Sample Essay #1

Prompt : “Vanderbilt offers a community where students find balance between their academic and social experiences. Please briefly elaborate on how one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences has influenced you.”

“I never would’ve thought joining my school’s DECA chapter would catalyze my entrepreneurial aspirations. Yet, three years later and now a [POSITION] of said DECA chapter, I’ve channeled this ever-growing tenacity toward not only being a fierce competitor, but also a fierce leader. Aside from defining my high school experience, DECA has helped me find my place in school and given me the bigger-picture purpose necessary to help me develop into who I want to be, who I’ve already been all along: an entrepreneur. 

As a freshman, I was daunted by the task of producing a business proposal that’d cover all aspects of a business, including financial statements I’d never even heard of before. However, I soon found myself thriving by taking on the role of a potential franchisee, working on each section of my business proposal separately and putting them together to watch my business grow on paper, like pieces of a puzzle fitting into place. Embroiled in the encapsulating realm of entrepreneurship, I was inspired by my first year in DECA to immerse myself in the world of business, seeking to involve myself in additional academic and real-world business-esque opportunities and experiences. 

Within the chapter, I’ve made strides as an officer and now a [POSITION] to increase our member engagement and provide resources for members to help guide them through their business proposal construction process. Recently, tasked with the responsibility of building a chapter website, I’ve channeled my problem-solving and marketing skills gleaned from DECA into constructing an innovative platform that communicates our chapter’s mission, conveys important dates for meetings and competitions, displays samples of officers’ past proposals, as well as highlights Great Neck North DECA alumni. 

With each new year, each new business proposal thrusts me into a new level of competition: from qualifying for the state competition as a timid freshman to qualifying for the international competition during my sophomore year to confidently presenting and defending my most recent business proposal as a competitor in the final round at the international competition during my junior year. Outside of competition, each new year in DECA has thrust me into a new level of exploration, personal growth, and mentorship as I continue to absorb as much business-related knowledge as possible while savoring my time in DECA as both a leader and a competitor, ultimately allowing me to flourish as both a student and a future entrepreneur.”

Why Essay #1 Worked

This is a great essay because the writer captures their feelings about joining DECA and how much it has impacted them. The essay also illustrates the DECA chapter’s mission, which helps showcase that the writer believes in it. 

Sample Essay #2

“Driving intoxicated in the waning hours of the night, he recklessly swerves in and out of lanes until he finally loses control and rams his car into a tree. Save for a few cuts and bruises, he escapes unscathed. His sister’s lifeless body is discovered the morning after the crime–or was it a crime? The light knock of the gavel summons the courtroom to its feet; parents, teachers, coaches, spectators and competitors all stand as the single hour that months were spent preparing for commences.

Having not placed in the regional tournament in a decade, Mock Trial was regarded as little more than a team just barely keeping its head above water, far past its glory years when I first joined the school’s organization. My admiration for the club stretched far beyond simply checking my name off as a member–being content with mediocrity would have no place as long as I was on the team. And so to prevent it from disappearing into oblivion, I began with myself, spending hours learning, polishing and perfecting the skills necessary to succeed. With this, not only did I grow tremendously as an individual and a competitor, but I also gained the respect and admiration of my teammates, earning a leadership role.

Revamping the way Mock Trial operated quickly became a full time job. But, within a year, we were able to secure a spot in the top three of the regional tournament and lift the organization back into prominence. So when the trial starts, have no doubt that the top is the only place we aim. ‘Your honor, opposing counsel, and members of the jury….’ Show time.”

Why Essay #2 Worked

This essay immediately grabs your attention with a detailed reenactment of a crime scene that is a mock trial tournament. The student shows us what this extracurricular means and how they have grown alongside it. They are specific in their accomplishments within the activity, which is a great way to leave a lasting impression . 

Get More Sample Essays Here!

Examining successful supplemental essays is an excellent method for uncovering effective strategies. Explore numerous samples in our comprehensive college essay database below to discover a wide range of examples!

Do you still have questions about the Vanderbilt supplemental essays? Below, we have frequently asked questions. 

1. What Is Vanderbilt University’s Acceptance Rate? 

Vanderbilt’s acceptance rate is 5.1% . Out of the 41,336 applicants in the 2024 cycle, only 1,512 were admitted. 

2. How Is the Admissions Process for Vanderbilt University? 

Vanderbilt uses a holistic admissions process , meaning one element does not make or break an application. The school considers all student evaluation factors, from test scores and grades to extracurricular activities and leadership roles. 

3. What Kinds of Applications Can I Submit for Vanderbilt? 

You can apply for Vanderbilt using the Common App, Coalition App, and QuestBridge program. Choose the right application system for you, as Vanderbilt has no preference. Carefully follow the instructions on their respective site. 

4. What Are the Other Application Requirements for Vanderbilt? 

Apart from the requirements of each application system, you must submit high school transcripts, a counselor's letter of recommendation, two teacher recommendations, and an application fee of $50. Fee waivers are available for qualified students, and standardized test scores are currently optional. 

5. Are There Any Other Supplemental Materials for First-Year Applicants? 

If you apply for Vanderbilt’s Blair School of Music, you must complete a separate application besides the Coalition or Common App. You must also submit at least one artistic recommendation, a headshot, a music resume, a repertoire list, and a pre-screening video. You can find more details on the Blair Admissions Page .

Final Thoughts 

The Vanderbilt supplemental essay asks you to focus on an experience with opposing views or an extracurricular activity that matters to you, whether it be a school club, job, internship, or volunteer experience. 

Since you only have one prompt to show the admissions committee your story, be thoughtful in your response and choose a topic that highlights your values and goals.

Writing an excellent essay is only one part of your application, so follow our ultimate guide on applying to Vanderbilt. Remember, the best essay is one where you can proudly share a meaningful conversation or activity that impacted your perspective for the better. 

Focus on what you want to show the admissions committee, not what you think the committee wants to read. You will craft a stellar essay if you draw on your unique experiences.

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Analyzing the Vanderbilt Supplemental Essay 2024-2025

• October 31, 2024

Whether you’re captivated by its renowned research facilities, collaborative atmosphere, or dedication to community, Vanderbilt is a school that attracts people from all walks of life. Top-performing students in all fields come to Vanderbilt to pursue their passions. As one of the top schools in the nation, Admissions Officers at Vanderbilt look for students who would add to the campus’ vibrant community and emerge from their studies as industry leaders. Every aspect of a student’s application needs to be optimized. To help students stand out in the admissions process, here’s InGenius Prep’s guide to answering the Vanderbilt supplemental essays 2024-2025.

Need help with your supplemental essays? Book a free strategy call with an advisor today!

Vanderbilt Supplemental Essays 2024-2025

Short answer question (approximately 250 words) , vanderbilt university’s motto, crescere aude, is latin for “dare to grow.” in your response, reflect on how one or more aspects of your identity, culture, or background has played a role in your personal growth, and how it will contribute to our campus community as you dare to grow at vanderbilt..

This is a new supplemental essay prompt for the 2024-2025 admissions cycle. This prompt is also Vanderbilt’s take on the “community/background” essay question that many schools ask to get a sense of a student’s history and personality. 

For this question, Admissions Officers at Vanderbilt want to know the aspects that make you a unique candidate. Think about an aspect of yourself, your background, or your identity that has shaped your perspectives. What have you experienced throughout your schooling that has made you the student you are today? Consider how those traits will contribute to the community at Vanderbilt. Whether it’s through bringing your unique perspective to the table or by supporting those around you with their endeavors, think about what it is about you that will improve Vanderbilt. 

To show your appreciation and commitment to the school, be sure to mention how you will leverage resources at Vanderbilt to continue your journey of personal growth. Research the opportunities that Vanderbilt offers and use them as examples of why Vanderbilt is the perfect school for you. 

When writing, be sure to make your response unique to Vanderbilt. One of the biggest pitfalls for students is using the same responses for multiple schools. Admissions Officers easily notice when essays are recycled from other schools or prompts, and that will greatly diminish your chances of acceptance. Although this prompt is Vanderbilt’s take on an existing concept, don’t make broad generalizations about the school. For a university of this level, Admissions Officers are looking for real specifics. Delve deep into the aspects of Vanderbilt, its community, and your personality that you believe all align and make that the cornerstone of your essay response. 

Additional Tips for Writing the Vanderbilt Supplemental Essays 2024-2025

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

• Think about your leadership roles and commitments: When brainstorming your responses, you have to be strategic. What you reflect on should not only be unique but also exemplify your commitment and biggest assets. If you were a general member of a really unusual club for half a year, it’s not the best selection if you didn’t do much. Vanderbilt looks for community leaders who are dedicated to their field. Write about an extracurricular where you’ve been involved for an admirable period of time and taken initiative. Just saying you were a leader isn’t enough either—show your leadership through anecdotes and tangible achievements in your essay.
• Be wary of your other essays: Since you’re reflecting on your background, you should ideally capitalize on the short space provided to describe your growth as a student. That being said, your Vanderbilt supplemental essay for 2024-2025 is your chance to expand upon—instead of repeating—what you’ve written earlier in the Common Application. Admissions Officers expect each component of your application to convey new information about you. Mentioning the same things you’ve touched upon elsewhere in the Common App is not strategic. Read back on what you’ve written in your personal statement before you write the essay so that you can make sure that all of the information you’ve provided is new.

Your supplemental essays are a chance to give Admissions Officers insight into your personality. They will only select those they know will add to the community at Vanderbilt and be a positive influence on the institution. To stand out with your supplemental essays, research Vanderbilt’s values, goals, and the programs it offers, and use your supplemental essays to set yourself up as the best candidate for admission. 

For more information on supplemental essays and college application counseling, InGenius Prep’s Former Admissions Officers are here to help! We’ve coached thousands of students toward acceptance at the top U.S. schools. Whether it’s Vanderbilt, Berkeley, or Princeton, we can help you enhance your application and give you the best chance of admission into your dream school. Book a free strategy call today and become one of the 6,000 students we’ve coached into the top U.S. schools.

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How to Write the Vanderbilt Supplemental Essay 2024–2025

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Vanderbilt University , a prestigious academic institution with over 150 years of history , provides a vibrant campus life and varied scholarly research opportunities for its students. Located in Nashville, TN, Vanderbilt is known for its uniquely happy student community . In addition, the University counts six Nobel Laureates in their tight-knit community. For many applicants, the Vanderbilt supplemental essay can feel intimidating, but they don’t have to be. Let’s break it down.

Vanderbilt’s 2024-2025 Prompt

Vanderbilt requires just one short essay of approximately 250 words from their prospective students, but the essay can range from 200 to 400 words if necessary.

• Vanderbilt University’s motto, Crescere aude , is Latin for “dare to grow.” In your response, reflect on how one or more aspects of your identity, culture, or background has played a role in your personal growth, and how it will contribute to our campus community as you dare to grow at Vanderbilt.

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General Tips

Indirectly, Vanderbilt supplemental essay promps seeks to learn about who you are in the company of others. Because universities are communities of people who are not always like-minded, admissions officers often seek students who demonstrate respect for others and maturity when responding to diverse viewpoints. While many students admitted to top schools like Vanderbilt display leadership qualities, no one will be a leader all the time on campus. Showcasing how you are a team player capable of constructive disagreement with others may significantly bolster your application.

Therefore, when brainstorming your topic for this prompt, consider times when you have learned from others, gained new perspectives, or sought meaning outside of school. Writing clearly and authentically about one of these experiences could be what differentiates you from the crowd.

Now, let’s dive into the prompt.

Vanderbilt Short Essay Question

Vanderbilt university’s motto, crescere aude , is latin for “dare to grow.” in your response, reflect on how one or more aspects of your identity, culture, or background has played a role in your personal growth, and how it will contribute to our campus community as you dare to grow at vanderbilt. (approximately 250 words).

This essay prompt gives applicants the opportunity to show who they are and how they’ve grown. In order to answer this question effectively, you’ll need to exercise self-awareness and humility. Understanding how you’ve grown requires acknowledging the person you used to be, and accepting the flaws that you possessed in the past. This requires some degree of vulnerability and courage, hence the phrase “dare to grow.”

In other words, your essay should depict some kind of narrative. First, you’ll need to describe the person you used to be. Then, you’ll need to show how you changed, and why. Next, you’ll need to describe who you are today. Then, importantly, you must hint at how this development will continue to impact you into the future. Lastly, the essay would likely benefit from some reflection on this process of growth. In addition, remember to specifically point out the “one or more aspects of your identity, culture, or background” that catalyzed your development as a person.

To give each aspect of your identity, culture, or background the room to breathe in your Vanderbilt supplemental essay, it’s advisable to stick to just 1-3 aspects. That way, you have the space to elaborate upon each one with the requisite detail and nuance. You may also want the space to explain how courage and/or self-confidence impacted your development. The phrase “dare to grow,” and its implications, should remain in the back of your mind as you compose this essay.

If you need help polishing up your Vanderbilt supplemental essay, check out our College Essay Review service. You can receive detailed feedback from Ivy League consultants in as little as 24 hours.

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5 Tips for Writing a Stellar Vanderbilt Supplement Essay

College Essays

Vanderbilt is one of the United States' highest-ranked colleges. With an acceptance rate of just 7 percent, it's ranked as extremely competitive . It's no surprise—Vanderbilt is known for having a wealth of appealing programs, including its school of medicine, the Peabody College of Education and Human Development, and Blair School of Music.

Because it's extremely competitive, you'll need to set yourself apart as a prospective student . That doesn't mean just your grades and impressive extracurriculars; it also means writing a killer essay to go along with your application.

In this guide, we'll tell you everything you need to know about Vanderbilt's supplemental essay, including some ideal topics, some pitfalls to avoid, and even some analysis of past Vanderbilt essays that have worked.

Feature Image: Dansan4444 /Wikimedia Commons

The Vanderbilt Supplement Basics

Vanderbilt's application is fairly straightforward. They accept multiple application formats, including both the Common and Coalition Applications, as well as Questbridge.

What application you use is up to you. There are many reasons to choose one or the other , but regardless of which application you pick, you'll still be writing just one supplemental essay prompt from Vanderbilt. Choose whichever application works best for you.

In addition to the essays required for your Common, Coalition, or Questbridge Application, Vanderbilt requires one supplemental essay. There are two promp ts to choose from; you’ll select one to respond to in a short answer essay of no more than 250 words.

However, having just one supplemental essay means that you'll need to put a lot of attention into making your essay as good as it can be. You only have one chance to prove yourself in your essay, so make it count!

What Are the Vanderbilt Supplement Essay Prompts?

Vanderbilt has two prompts for their supplemental essay. You’ll be asked to select one and respond to it in 250 words or less . The prompts are as follows: 

Vanderbilt University values learning through contrasting points of view. We understand that our differences, and our respect for alternative views and voices, are our greatest source of strength. Please reflect on conversations you’ve had with people who have expressed viewpoints different from your own. How did these conversations/experiences influence you? Vanderbilt offers a community where students find balance between their academic and social experiences. Please briefly elaborate on how one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences has influenced you.

Each prompt asks you to describe and reflect on a different aspect of your experiences and values, so we’ll break down how to answer them individually.

Supplemental Prompt #1: Diversity

Vanderbilt University values learning through contrasting points of view. We understand that our differences, and our respect for alternative views and voices, are our greatest source of strength. Please reflect on conversations you’ve had with people who have expressed viewpoints different from your own. How did these conversations/experiences influence you?

In this prompt, Vanderbilt is asking you to describe how you interact with and learn from people who are different from yourself . College campuses are diverse communities filled with people of different races, ethnicities, nationalities, and religious and political beliefs. This essay is your chance to show Vanderbilt that you’re the kind of student who’s open to learning from and with people from many different backgrounds–and that you’ll be kind and compassionate in the process. 

To answer this question, think of a specific conversation (or series of conversations) you’ve had with a person or group who expressed views that are different from your own. You’ll want to tell a compelling story about the experience, so try to remember details like how the conversation started, why the people involved felt invested in the conversation, what the outcome was, and, most importantly, how you were influenced by the conversation. 

Rather than giving a play-by-play, “they said/I said” of the conversation, focus on describing how you and the other people involved expressed yourselves and treated each other . Did you have a shouting match in the hallway at school, then apologize later because you realized that yelling isn’t a good way to express your views? Did you have a heartfelt, tearful conversation wherein you finally came to understand someone you’ve been at odds with for years? And most important of all, how did you come to these realizations, and how have they affected who you are and how you treat people who are different from you today? 

Remember to keep your essay focused on the people involved in the conversation , how you treated each other, and how you were affected by the interaction . This essay isn’t the place to harp on how you were right and you totally owned your opponent with your awesome debate skills. Instead, Vanderbilt wants to see that you can engage civilly and empathetically with people who are different from you –and that you’re open to learning new things from others. After all, learning and growing with people from different backgrounds is a key part of the college experience. 

Supplemental Prompt #2: Extracurricular Activities

Vanderbilt offers a community where students find balance between their academic and social experiences. Please briefly elaborate on how one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences has influenced you.

The question is straightforward—Vanderbilt is asking you to discuss one of your extracurriculars in depth. This doesn't just demonstrate to the admissions office that you're dedicated to your interest, but also that you have passions outside of school. Vanderbilt wants to know that you'll bring something besides academics to campus, and this is the space to tell them about it.

Keep in mind that Vanderbilt isn't looking for a list of activities or just a short discussion of one of your extracurriculars. They specifically ask for one, but you have 250 words to cover—which means you should spend some time unpacking not just the activity itself, but why you do it and why it matters to you. Be thoughtful; really think about your activities and why you do them beyond that they look good on your college application.

Don't just pick the extracurricular activity that you think Vanderbilt would want to hear about. If you're a champion Mathlete but you really feel fulfilled when you're making short films with your friends over the weekend, you should be writing about the short films. If your short film was played at a local film festival but you find more meaning in the time you spend knitting, write about knitting!

It's not about being impressive here. Plenty of other applicants will be discussing their charity work or science team victories. Use this space to discuss yourself, and why the things you do matter to you. If the most impressive thing in your repertoire and the thing that's most personally meaningful line up, great! But don't feel like you can only write about things like academic success, leadership roles, or entrepreneurship. Write about what's meaningful to you and Vanderbilt will see your personality—which is really what they're looking for—shine through.

Vanderbilt Essays That Worked: Analysis

To give you a sense of what an effective Vanderbilt supplemental essay looks like, we tracked down an example of a successful Vanderbilt essay.

Keep in mind that this is a response to an older prompt. However, it still gives you a good idea of what admissions counselors are looking for in a thoughtful response. Consider this essay from an admitted Vanderbilt student:

Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (150-400 words). While all my extracurricular activities have helped me shape my values, there is one in particular I have enjoyed the most: picking tangerines from my grandmother’s orchard. Picking tangerines was often to me simply a burden. I had to wake up at six every Saturday and drive fifty miles to help my grandmother reap good tangerines. On the whole ride I would think to myself: I would rather be reading poetry and ponder upon ways to change the world. As far as I was concerned, reaping tangerines was not going to help me do so. The orchard belonged to my grandmother, who to save money had to “hire” me and my mom. There was no wage; the only working benefit was being able to taste a few fresh tangerines for free. At age thirteen, such benefit was enough. At seventeen, I was not so sure if it was. Working at the orchard usually involved scratches, itching, worms, climbing up the ladder, getting hurt, and demanding, long hours of physical labor. But as I worked through the years with tangerines, I began to recognize all the beauty my labor had. Everything in the orchard began telling their own stories. A tiny, pruned tree took pride in its small fruition, all the while a chunky tree demanded attention for its crooked children. Their offspring–tangerines–told by their taste who their trees were; some of them edgy, some of them warm, and some of them implicitly angry. Bugs would tell me which tree needs my help. No tree is without a hope. Within a few days of assistance, all the trees fought back those tiny enemies and always claimed victory. They became ever more proud, stronger, and complete. Enemies came back; but this time the trees didn’t need my help. Some tangerines would go bad–in extreme cases would give up under negligence. We grieve. But we simply carry on. We learn to proceed more carefully, and we let go. The orchard is for me a story of life–human life. It makes all the complications of our lives more simple, easier to grasp, and more available at my tongue, hands and feet. So as of right now, my Saturday is always booked for the orchard. I hope by next year this time around, however, my orchard will be at Vanderbilt.

This essay was successful--the applicant was accepted at Vanderbilt! The fact that it was successful shows you that it contains features that Vanderbilt likes to see.

The writer of this essay discusses the unconventional “education” they received while working in their grandmother’s tangerine orchard. This topic is striking because it’s an extracurricular/work experience that few other applicants have likely had. The applicant’s creative interpretation of “extracurricular activities or work experience” from the prompt makes their essay stand out from others that discuss more common experiences.

Not everybody had this same experience, but that doesn't mean that you can't use some of the same ideas in your own work. The writer draws a clear line between their experience working the orchard and the person they are now—you could do a similar thing by connecting the person you are with the activity you've chosen to write about. What have you learned about yourself because of what you do?

The writer is also able to connect what they learned through working the orchard to the kind of student they will be at Vanderbilt. By drawing an analogy between the tangerine trees and the challenges we go through in life, the applicant conveys their core values. More importantly, they write about where those values come from—something you could easily do by referencing the importance of the activity you choose.

What's most important to take away from this essay is the way that the writer connects the experience of working the orchard to the person they became. No matter what your education was or what activity you choose to write about, you can do a similar thing in your own essay!

5 Key Tips for Writing Your Vanderbilt Essay

Vanderbilt is a prestigious school, but there are some essay standards that hold true no matter where you're applying . Follow these steps to write an essay that's sure to impress!

#1: Start Writing

Starting is the step that sounds the easiest, but it's actually the hardest. No matter what you have to do to start writing, whether it's freewriting, brainstorming, or just pumping out a first draft as fast as you can, you need to do it. At this point, don't worry about quality or being impressive. Just get words down on paper so that you can edit them into shape later— if you spend too much time worrying about starting with a perfect beginning, you'll never make it past that point.

Step two is when you can start worrying about quality. Read your essay aloud and see if you can spot problems with word choice and flow. If you're struggling to read it, change words and add punctuation as necessary.

Also think about your overall point. Does it make sense? Are you able to trace your logic all the way through without a problem? If not, find ways to connect your thoughts from beginning to end.

Be thorough in cutting extraneous words. 250 words isn't a lot, and you'll want to make sure you're making your essay count by picking vibrant, active verbs and clear language. Don't worry about being flowery or busting out the thesaurus, but do be sure that your wording doesn't feel tired or dull.

#3: Seek Feedback

One of the best ways to find holes in your logic or other issues in your essay is to get others to give you feedback. Find people who want to see you succeed, but preferably not those who aren't going to give you criticism if you need it. Teachers and other mentors are a good choice, if they're available.

Don't feel like you have to use every piece of feedback you receive, but do consider all of it. Your essay should always be your own work, so try to rephrase suggestions in your own words or rewrite confusing passages how you would write them, not how others suggest.

#4: Take a Break

With deadlines looming and other essays to write, it may be tempting to just rush through after getting feedback and fix everything. But take some time away from your essay, focusing on other college application duties or on other things entirely. Anywhere from a couple days to weeks to months can be good for improving your essay, though do leave yourself time to revise.

Taking a break lets your mind forget what you've already written, so that when you come back to revise you do so with fresh eyes. This way, you can see holes in your logic or places where your language isn't as tight as it could be. You'll never be able to completely shed your attachment to your essay, but spending some time away from it can give you a whole new outlook on your work!

Now that you've had some time away and you have notes to incorporate, it's time to revise. Revision can be something you do multiple times, combing through your essay for errors and places to strengthen it, but eventually you are going to have to turn it in. Don't get caught up in perfection—focus on making your essay the best you can. Check it for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors to be sure it's clean and easy to read, and send it off!

What's Next?

Starting your essay is often the hardest part. If you're unsure where to begin, check out this guide to starting a college essay perfectly , and don't be afraid to just dive right in!

A good essay is just one part of a successful Vanderbilt application . If you want to really wow the admissions office, be sure your grades and test scores are up to snuff, too!

Vanderbilt University may not be an Ivy League school, but that doesn't mean your application can't be Ivy League-ready. Use these tips for getting into Harvard to shape your college application, and you'll have no problem getting into any school you choose!

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Melissa Brinks graduated from the University of Washington in 2014 with a Bachelor's in English with a creative writing emphasis. She has spent several years tutoring K-12 students in many subjects, including in SAT prep, to help them prepare for their college education.

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• College Application

Vanderbilt Supplemental Essay Examples

Sitting down to write an essay is a daunting task, and you might fare better if you have seen how others have solved the blank page problem, perhaps by perusing some Vanderbilt supplemental essay examples.

There is no perfect approach to how to write a college essay , and you need to find your own way forward. One of the best college essay tips , paradoxically, is finding your way by looking at how other people have approached their own essays.

So, in this article, we will show you sample college essays for Vanderbilt, including one for the Common App essay , one for the Coalition Application, and all of Vanderbilt’s exclusive supplemental essay prompts. We will also talk about how to write essays, including tips for Vanderbilt in particular.

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free initial consultation here <<

Article Contents 10 min read

Essay examples, common application.

There are several prompts for the Common Application. We have selected one ( bolded & italicized , below) to write a sample for, but we have included all prompts for your edification.

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you\u2019ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design. "}]'>

Word limit: The Common Application has no hard word limit. We recommend approximately 500 words; for the sake of brevity, don’t exceed 650.

I need to lose weight. I need to love my body. I need to be my authentic self and not worry about what other people say, but I’ve got a doctor spitting out a pile of health complications that are hard to ignore. My therapist is telling me that self-acceptance is so important, though. Meanwhile, although my friends at school say, “You’re beautiful!” in every social media selfie, I know I can hear whispering and snickering when I pass by.

All I get are conflicting messages about my body, and it’s my body, but I don’t know what to think. The event that brought all these thoughts to the surface came when I was jogging and my mp3 player shuffled up Adele’s song Rolling in the Deep. I started to cry in the middle of the trail. Adele was a plus-sized woman who lost weight and shed fans with pounds as a bunch of people piled on her for “betraying” the body-positive community.

The Coalition Application also has several prompts. As before, we have included all prompts, and will give you one sample ( bolded & italicized , below)

Submit an essay on a topic of your choice. "}]'>

Word limit: Like the Common Application, the Coalition Application has no hard word limit, but we recommend you aim for 500 and do not go over 650 words.

I worked through my problems one note at a time, my fingers on the fretboard, bending and warbling notes until I could get them close to the timbre of a human voice. This might seem like a superficial reason to get the blues, but my cat died last year, and I had had her since I was a little boy. She was very special to me, and her loss left a trench in my life.

One of my interests is the guitar, something I have played since almost as long as I had the cat – my dad is a session musician, my mom a music teacher – and so I picked up my instrument when it was time to mourn. Blues music came out in ways that I couldn’t manage before. It was true what they say; my grief was a propellant that accelerated what I could do, and what I felt in my guts and my throat came out of my fingers, converted into aural paint across the air.

The loss of my cat is less piquant now, although still with me, but my love of guitar music has been reignited, and I immerse myself in my art. It started as obsession, and I practiced more and more than I ever had before, notes piling up inside my room next to the scattered laundry. My teachers thought I might be aimless, but my aim was precise; I just had a different target in mind than they did.

This essay is meant to show how you engage with your community. There are two possible prompts to select from.

Word limit: approximately 250 words for each short answer essay

Vanderbilt University values learning through contrasting points of view. We understand that our differences, and our respect for alternative views and voices, are our greatest source of strength. Please reflect on conversations you’ve had with people who have expressed viewpoints different from your own. How did these conversations/experiences influence you?

Debate club brought me into contact with a lot of viewpoints I was uncomfortable with and made me defend several of them. It taught me to engage with different ideas, back up my own arguments, and understand the vast variety of thought that exists in the world. It did not prepare me for fighting with my best friend.

When Salman Rushdie was stabbed – attacked by a fanatic who didn’t like a book – I was ranting about this with my friends. Obviously, as a debate club member, free expression is important to me. My friend Samuel agreed that what happened to Rushdie was awful. “But,” he said, “there ought to be more hate speech laws; that would stop stuff like this from happening.”

That floored me, and it started an argument that lasted for weeks and nearly cost me the friendship. I thought I would end it by saying that free speech was fundamental, but Samuel didn’t back down.

He showed me a picture of his pen pal from Phoenix. The kid’s name was Abdul, and he was a Muslim. Samuel told me that Abdul didn’t have the right to free speech, because he risked hate just by walking around. Hate speech laws would help him.

I realized that I prided myself on seeing “both sides,” but I still had biases and blind spots. While I still believe in free speech, I have reminded myself to be open-minded, even against myself, and to understand others.

When thinking about how to start a college essay , begin with a good opening sentence that draws in the reader. Then, continue with an opening paragraph that details the main ideas at play in the coming essay.

Smoothly transitioning is a great general practice, which will take you into the body of the essay. There, you will flesh out the ideas you started with, tell the bulk of your story, answer the prompt, and show your personal growth and connections.

Finally, cap it off with a conclusion that wraps up, or fulfills the “promise,” of the opener. You want to leave the essay in a place that makes the admissions committee feel like they would want to know more, not because the essay lacks closure, but because they are more intrigued than ever by you as an applicant, thinking that you will fit perfectly at Vanderbilt.

Vanderbilt has given you a requirement of only two essays, so the first thing to consider is what they are looking for. While it may seem that they are limiting your scope, they provide an interesting variety of prompts. However, in looking at the “personal essay” prompts, despite the number – seven for the Common Application and six for the Coalition Application – the same ideas crop up in each list: challenges faced, times of change, and personal growth. This speaks volumes about what Vanderbilt has chosen to learn about you.

The second essay – the short answer that Vanderbilt specifically asks for – is about you and your community.

Taken in aggregate, we can see that what Vanderbilt wants emphasized is your personal life; specifically, they want to see how you affect and are affected by your world. When you compose your essays, focus on these aspects of your life – change and community – for maximum effect with Vanderbilt.

Giving yourself the time to write, the training to write, and even hiring a college essay review service will help you write your essays, but taking a look at the examples and tips above will give you the boost you need to succeed.

Sometimes yes, sometimes no. In the case of Vanderbilt, they do not give a minimum word count for their short answer essays. However, because 250 words is not a lot of space to fill, a good rule of thumb is to aim for close to the maximum. After all, it they preferred a 150-word essay, they would have specified that.

The Common App specifies 250–650 words, while the Coalition Application specifies 500–650 words. With such a range, these are not considered hard limits, but do respect them anyways.

What is most important is to give yourself the writing space to explore your prompts and topics fully. Part of requesting a long essay and a short one is to test whether you are capable of expanding and exploring concepts in depth as well as delivering a brief, concise message.

Don’t, even if it is allowed. Respect that they have provided you with a limit. Even if it is a gentle suggestion, you should realize that they are also checking to see if you can follow instructions and keep to their paradigms. Can you fit your ideas into a smaller word count? They want to know that, too.

You can’t submit just any essay into that slot; you need to have something in mind that will show off yourself, your character, your personal growth, or challenges you’ve faced. You might have a story that doesn’t fit one of the other prompts but does speak to those elements of your life; in that case, you can write an original essay on that topic.

Two things to keep in mind if you choose this option: make sure your essay is not about one of the existing prompts, even inadvertently, and be sure that your original idea is really strong.

Well, first off, you’re not writing a good essay, you’re writing a great one. But to your point, the essay should be crafted over a period of a few weeks – two or three – spending time each day to work on the text. It takes time and careful consideration to build an essay.

Every aspect of your application is important, and you should consider each facet to be necessary and imperative. Don’t neglect any aspect. Each application section has its own, unique purpose. Transcripts show your academic standing, for instance. Essays show you off as an individual – something which no other area in your application will do in such a thorough way. You can use your own words and story here, as opposed to just listing your interests and extracurricular activities.

Yes, and in some cases you will. The Common App essay , or Coalition App essay, will be sent to multiple schools. However, if your Vanderbilt secondary essay will serve another school’s prompt, you may reuse it. Just make sure that it truly fits the other prompt, that it is devoid of school-specific references, and that your word/character counts still apply. In fact, double-check it, because you don’t want to scuttle your chances of acceptance because you just hit copy-paste.

They are very similar. Both the Common App and Coalition App are centralized services to streamline prospective students’ applications. The Common App is more widely used, while the Coalition App is geared toward underprivileged students – students who come from backgrounds that are not represented at, or may have a more difficult time getting into, post-secondary institutions.

Check which schools you’re applying to first. If you’re applying to schools that are only available on the Common App, that’s your choice made for you. Choose the Coalition App if you can make use of their additional services or think they will better serve you as an underprivileged student or member of an underrepresented group.

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