What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
Loading…
UCLA
Loading…
+ add school
Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

How to best approach the 'Why This College' essay?

Hey folks, it's time for me to start my 'Why This College' essays and honestly, I'm kinda stressed. How do I research a college and incorporate that into my essay in a way that's both personal and specific to the school? Any tips would be amazing, thanks!

10 months ago

I completely understand why the 'Why This College' essay can be a bit daunting, but you're already on the right track by seeking advice on how to personalize it! The key is to deep dive into the specifics of what the college has to offer and then reflect on how those aspects align with your interests and goals. Start by visiting the college's website, look into their course offerings, special programs, extracurricular activities, and any unique traditions they might have. Check out their mission statement and see how it resonates with your values.

Then, think about how these offerings will help you grow academically and personally. Have you always wanted to join a college with a strong environmental science program because you're passionate about sustainability? Mention how a specific professor's research at the college inspires you. Are you excited by their innovative entrepreneurship center because you've been running a successful online store while in high school? Highlight those as examples of definitive reasons you see yourself thriving at that college, thus demonstrating both a well-researched understanding of the school and a personal connection to it.

10 months ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.