Colgate University 2022-23 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Colgate University 2022-23 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 2 essays of 150-200 words, 1 list

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Oddball, Community

Colgate offers applicants the opportunity to lend depth to their application through optional supplemental writing prompts. These prompts are not meant to feel like essays; they are simply an added perspective. Responses to these prompts provide the Admission team greater insight into who the applicants are and the many ways they may flourish at Colgate.

Applicants can choose to respond to any or all of the prompts, which will be available in their Colgate applicant portal after their application has been received. Applicants should submit responses to the optional supplemental prompts based on personal preference. Those who choose not to submit responses will be at no disadvantage in the application review process.

Question 1: A great institution is diverse. It brings students of different socioeconomic backgrounds, races, ethnicities, and religions to campus. Colgate recognizes this and exposes students to a rich variety of perspectives and backgrounds in their educational and social experiences. Tell us in 150-200 words how you have prepared to immerse yourself in a community such as this or how you look forward to growing as a result of your experience at Colgate.

Admissions wants to know that you value inclusivity and thrive in diverse settings. So, you have two options: Tell admissions a story about getting involved in a diverse community, or write about why you are excited about joining Colgate’s eclectic student body. If you go with a story, start by thinking about the experiences you’ve had that have drawn you out of your shell or comfort zone and introduced you to new concepts, ideas, or ways of living. Maybe you joined the Robotics Club at school and made friends with peers you would have never met otherwise. Perhaps you got involved with the debate team and had to learn quickly about effective communication and the ability to see things from different perspectives. If you’ve lived a pretty sheltered life up until this point, don’t feel overwhelmed by this question — instead of looking to your past, focus on your future. How do you hope to blossom as a result of your experience at Colgate? Are you looking forward to leaving your small Midwestern town and meeting people from all different backgrounds? Do you hope to gain perspective and expand your horizons? However you approach this prompt, we encourage you to focus on how joining a diverse community will benefit your education.

Question 2: Colgate cultivates a skilled and engaged student body. Through their achievements, our students reflect the University’s reputation as a great place to pursue one’s academic interests. Tell us in 150-200 words about an academic or personal experience that highlights your skill and potential as a Colgate student.

Colgate wants to accept motivated applicants who are keen to take advantage of the opportunities available to them on campus. So, use this response as an opportunity to tell admissions about a time you accomplished a goal or succeeded academically. Maybe you created a graphic design club at your school to further develop your skills with friends after classes were over. Are you a natural leader? Do you often think outside the box? Perhaps you won your school’s science fair and plan to continue thinking creatively about solutions to 21st century problems next year on campus. Are you innovative? Do you love a good challenge? If nothing immediately comes to mind, try jotting down the academic accomplishments you’re most proud of. If you can’t think of anything, try asking a family member or loved one — we’re sure grandma has an idea or two! 😉

Question 3: The academic community at Colgate is shaped by the unique talents, character, and personality of each student. Please finish each sentence in 75 characters or less so we can learn more about you.

I am fascinated by…
I want to learn all I can about…
My favorite book is…
My role model is…
In the future, I hope to …
One thing I would change is…
I wish…
I am most challenged by…
In 5 years, I…

You’ve been limited to less than the length of a tweet for each answer, so you’d better make every word (and character) count! No pressure or anything. These prompts don’t have time for generalities or gentle introductions, so you’ll have to get straight to the point. The more specific your words are, the more likely they are to stick with admissions officers. If you can paint a funny picture or display a knack for wit, take this chance, but don’t force it; humor is not the only way to leave an impression. You also don’t have to think of this as filling in the blanks, but more like filling in any blanks still left in your application. Anything that doesn’t feel like it merits a full essay can go here as a tweet, hot take, punchline, or elegantly-worded sentence.