8 Great Columbia Essay Examples | CollegeVine Blog
Reading through each of the Columbia essay prompts above, you might be overwhelmed trying to pick just one to respond to. While deciding on a prompt is an important decision, all of these prompts have something in common. They are all designed to give students the opportunity to discuss a broad range of interests, identities, and experiences. Remember, the goal of this Columbia essay is to give the admissions committee insight into who you are and what you care about.
In addition to the Columbia personal statement or personal essay, the Columbia University requirements include several . These short answer essays are also known as the Columbia supplemental essays. Later on, we’ll take an in-depth look at each of these Columbia supplemental essays and how to approach each prompt.
Columbia University requires applicants to submit a total of 6 essays (1 personal statement essay and 5 Columbia supplemental essays). This may seem like a lot of writing, but it is not as intimidating as it sounds. The is an essay that you will likely use for all of the colleges you apply to. So, there is no need to write a separate personal statement for Columbia. However, you should think about your and what personal essay topic might be the most fitting for the schools you are applying to.
Columbia University Supplemental Essay Examples | Clastify
The other 5 Columbia essay prompts are all short answers, meaning they only require a few sentences to respond to. Each of the short answer Columbia essay prompts is designed to address Columbia University’s , mission, and academic features. The goal of these essays is to show the admissions committee why you would be a good fit for Columbia University. We’ll cover the specific details and lengths of each of the Columbia essay prompts later in this guide.
Yes, the Columbia University requirements include a and several school-specific Columbia supplemental essays. Let’s discuss the longest Columbia essay first. Depending on your application method, you will need to submit a Personal Statement (Coalition App) or a Personal Essay (Common App). While the essay prompts are different for each application platform, the goals of each are very similar.
Show reflection and growth in your essays. Discuss the lessons learned and personal growth from your experiences, and how these have prepared you for Columbia.
Separate from the Columbia supplemental essays, Columbia gives students the opportunity to discuss a that they conducted. This question asks the applicant to provide an abstract, essentially a short written summary detailing the nature of their research. Additionally, students can submit in areas such as architecture, creative writing, dance, and drama. While the Columbia supplemental essays are required, remember these are both considered supplementary materials and are completely optional!
Columbia University Essay Examples (And Why They Worked)
Start by briefly explaining what initially drew you to your intended area of study. This could be an experience, a book, a class, or a personal interest that sparked your curiosity. Then, highlight how Columbia’s programs, faculty, and resources will allow you to explore this interest further. Mention specific aspects of the curriculum, research opportunities, or academic centers at Columbia that align with your academic goals. If you are concerned that your response is not specific enough, ask yourself whether the same could be said of another institution. If you could repurpose this essay for another supplemental essay prompt, your response is too general.
5 Columbia University Supplemental Example Essays (2024)
Start by briefly explaining what initially drew you to your intended area of study. This could be an experience, a book, a class, or a personal interest that sparked your curiosity. Then, highlight how Columbia’s programs, faculty, and resources will allow you to explore this interest further. Mention specific aspects of the curriculum, research opportunities, or academic centers at Columbia that align with your academic goals. If you are concerned that your response is not specific enough, ask yourself whether the same could be said of another institution. If you could repurpose this essay for another supplemental essay prompt, your response is too general.
Columbia Supplemental Essay: Top 10 Tips & Examples
The “Why Columbia” essay is your prime opportunity to showcase your unique interest in the institution. With just 150 words, being specific and concise is critical when writing this prompt. As a result, you will want to avoid both praising the prestige of the institution—the admissions committee is well aware of Columbia’s reputation—and writing about why you’re excited to attend college in New York City—there are other schools in the city, and describing the opportunities NYC has to offer does not indicate why Columbia specifically appeals to you. Consider discussing specific professors and the classes that they teach or check out some of the many clubs and organizations on campus. Most importantly, think about your past experiences and identity, and try to express how you see yourself contributing positively to the student body at Columbia.
How to Write the Columbia University Essays 2024-2025
The “Why Columbia” essay is your prime opportunity to showcase your unique interest in the institution. With just 150 words, being specific and concise is critical when writing this prompt. As a result, you will want to avoid both praising the prestige of the institution—the admissions committee is well aware of Columbia’s reputation—and writing about why you’re excited to attend college in New York City—there are other schools in the city, and describing the opportunities NYC has to offer does not indicate why Columbia specifically appeals to you. Consider discussing specific professors and the classes that they teach or check out some of the many clubs and organizations on campus. Most importantly, think about your past experiences and identity, and try to express how you see yourself contributing positively to the student body at Columbia.