Meredith College 2020-21 Supplemental Essay Guide

Meredith College 2020-21 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements:  1 short essay of 250 words, 1 essay of 500 words

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why, Activity 

The following two-part writing sample is an important component of your application. Please submit your thoughtful response to the following questions (maximum combined length should be no longer than 500 words): 

A. Describe the attributes of a Meredith education that make it a good fit for your future.

B. Provide a personal example which demonstrates your commitment to planning, pursuing, and reaching your goals in the face of challenge. 

In other words: Why do you want to earn your degree at Meredith College? And how are you going to make the most of your experience despite challenges that may come your way? 

This is what admissions officers want to know. Start by exploring Meredith College’s website, so you can point to concrete examples of why you want to go there. Does this school offer a major that most other schools in the region don’t? Are you looking for a small liberal arts college that is working to address the racism that is affecting BIPOC students, faculty, and alum? 

Next, provide a story that exemplifies your grit and tenacity. Think back on the accomplishments that you’re most proud of, then work backward to bring admissions into your mindset and planning process. Explain how you were able to dream and achieve in the face of a challenge. Ultimately, admissions wants to accept students who are determined and ambitious in their pursuits.

Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (250 words)

Activity essays like this one are more common than M.C. Escher posters in college dorm rooms. The most strenuous part, however, is selecting the activity you want to write about. So, we return to our favorite mantra: tell admissions something they couldn’t glean from anywhere else in your application. If you wrote your Common App essay about your time scooping ice cream at your local creamery, focus on a different activity or work experience that reveals a new aspect of your personality. This can be a great opportunity to highlight your leadership skills and any accolades you may have received. Were you nominated as captain of your ultimate frisbee team? Were you tapped to manage a team of volunteers at the food pantry? No matter what you choose, it should probably be something you’ve been involved in for a while, so you can demonstrate your growth and the impact that you have had on others.