I'm working on my Brown University application, and I could use some advice. Anyone got some tips for writing awesome supplementals? I'm a bit stressed, and anything would be appreciated!
First, take a deep breath and remember that supplementals are an opportunity for you to showcase your personality, your unique interests, and why you're a good fit for the school. As long as you write genuinely and from the heart, you can come up with a compelling essay. Here are some tips to help you write solid Brown supplementals:
1. Research the university: Learn what Brown values and look for ways to incorporate those values into your responses. Be specific about the programs, classes, and extracurricular opportunities that speak to you and help support your long-term goals.
2. Be genuine: Admissions officers want to know the real you, so don't try to write what you think they want to read. Reflect on your passions, accomplishments, and challenges, and share how these experiences have shaped you.
3. Answer the prompt: It's important to directly answer the prompt you're given. Remain focused and make sure that your response addresses the question asked while demonstrating your enthusiasm and commitment to Brown.
4. Show, don't tell: Engage the reader through anecdotes, personal examples, and vivid language. Avoid clichés and generalities - they want to see how you think and what makes you unique.
5. Demonstrate a spike: Brown is interested in specialized, focused students who can contribute to their community in a specific way. Highlight your achievements and interests in a particular field and explain how Brown can help you further develop them.
6. Edit and revise: Writing is a process. Be prepared to draft, revise, and edit your work. Make sure that your responses are well-structured, free of errors, and convey your message clearly.
7. Seek feedback: Share your essays with trusted individuals (e.g., teachers, counselors, friends, or family), who can provide constructive feedback, help identify any gaps, and ensure that your voice remains authentic.
For example, if you're discussing the Open Curriculum, consider how you've taken advantage of academic freedom in the past (e.g. designing your own research project or taking courses outside your comfort zone) and how you plan to continue doing so at Brown. Connect this to specific courses or campus resources that you're excited about, demonstrating a genuine interest in the school.
Remember, the key to successful Brown supplementals is to be yourself, showcase your passion, and articulate why you would be a valuable addition to their community. Good luck with your application!
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