Bentley University 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Bentley University 2023-24 Application Essay Explanations

The Requirements: 1 essay of 250 words

Supplemental Essay Type: Why, Diversity

(OPTIONAL) Please tell us specifically and in your own words which aspects of Bentley University prompted you to apply. In addition, if you are interested in a specific program/major, what attracted you to that program or area of study? (250 words or fewer)

A classic Why Essay like this is a time-honored supplement tradition, and your answer can reveal a lot to admissions about your potential fit and overall commitment to the school. You don’t have too many words at your disposal, so brevity will be instrumental to a strong response. Spend some time on the Bentley website and get to know the school. Explore all areas that interest you (social clubs, volunteer organizations, research opportunities, academic programs, Greek life, etc.) to build your list of reasons for applying, and don’t forget to include information about why you’ve selected your chosen major (if applicable). The more detailed your response is, the more you will stand out from the pack.

(OPTIONAL) Our students bring to campus a variety of experiences, cultures, and intersecting identities including race and ethnicity — aspects that are important to a rich educational experience and your success in college and beyond. You may use this section to discuss how race and ethnicity has affected your life, be it through discrimination, inspiration or otherwise.  (250 words or fewer)

Applicants who choose to respond to this prompt likely have something in mind to say about how race and ethnicity have impacted their lives. Since you only have 250 words at your disposal here, our advice is to focus on you: your experiences, your intersecting identities, and your culture. This is an opportunity for you to address how race has played a role in your life and the ways it has inspired you and/or you have continued to rise above the obstacles set in your path by systemic injustices. Give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, draft, and revise your response, as writing about topics as nuanced as these can be challenging, even for adults who have spent twice, thrice, or four times as many years on this earth as you. We have no doubt that you’ll be able to write a concise, meaningful story about the kind of person you are, the qualities you possess, and the ways in which you will succeed and positively contribute to any academic community.