School Essay Outline · Rishab Academy

School Essay Outline

SCHOOL-SPECIFIC ESSAYS

What is it?

Many schools require a 150-300 word essay explaining why you want to apply to that specific school. The purpose is to demonstrate your interest and fit for the institution.

Research the School

To write an effective school-specific essay, gather detailed information about the school. Use the school's website and CollegeBoard’s BigFuture college search tool to answer the following questions:

1. Student Body Size: Is it small, medium, or large?

2. Type of School: Is it public or private?

3. Location: Is it urban, suburban, or rural?

4. Campus Layout: Is it a compact or dispersed campus?

5. Student to Teacher Ratio: What is the ratio?

6. Traditions: What are some fun or unique traditions? (Reddit can be a good source for less common traditions)

7. Courses/Programs: Which course or program interests you? (Explore department websites)

8. Curriculum Flexibility: Is the curriculum more open or more strict?

Notable Professors: Does this school have professors/mentors that are doing something you’re interested in? Do they lead a research, project, or some kind of activity that is a part of your interest? Say that you are interested in this and include professor’s name, their department/major, and the activity they’re heading.

Identify at least one unique aspect that sets the school apart from others. For instance, Harvard offers a Medicine & Society Track that blends science and sociology.

Include a Personal Element

Your essay should stand out by including a personal connection to the school. Reflect on experiences, beliefs, or values that align with the school’s environment. For example:

Life Experiences: Did a visit or specific experience influence your desire to attend this school?
Beliefs or Faith: Do your personal beliefs align with the school’s values?
Environment: Does the school’s location or community fit your background or preferences?
Programs: Is there a particular program that matches your interests?

An example is using faith as a personal element. If you value balance, like in Buddhism, relate it to the school's offerings. This shows admissions officers your values and how they align with the school’s environment.

Connect Personal Experiences to School Elements

Discuss how the school’s specific features relate to your personal experiences. For example, if you explored a city with your grandparents, mention how attending a nearby university will bring back those memories. Highlight the school’s location, programs, and opportunities that match your interests.

Re-emphasize Key Elements

Conclude by reiterating the main elements of the school that resonate with you. Summarize why these elements make the school a perfect fit for you based on your research and personal experiences.

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