University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNC) 2025-26 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide 

UNC Wilmington 2025-26 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: Why

Supplemental Essay Type(s): 1 essay of 250 words

All writing is carefully reviewed by the Admission Committee for content, clarity, mechanics and effort. Responses are an important factor in distinguishing admissible candidates within the applicant pool. Please respond to the following prompt thoughtfully. Your response should be approximately 250 words.

Reflect on your identity, including your background and experiences, and how you envision your identity contributing to the UNCW community.

UNC Wilmington wants to accept students from a range of backgrounds who will contribute to their community, so tell admissions about what makes you you and how that will inform your engagement with your peers. Think about times when people have been intrigued by or curious about your identity, skillset, or background. Maybe you spend your Sundays cooking big Southern meals with your grandma and can’t wait to teach your UNC roommates about the wonders of fried okra and shrimp and grits. Perhaps you’re an avid break-dancer and look forward to starting an intramural league at UNC. What do you hope to share with others about your lived experience? How will you incorporate this element of your identity to enrich the world around you? Show admissions that you’re eager to make your mark in their community.