The American University Supplemental Essay has become an essential part of the application process, especially now that the university has become more selective. Back in the 1990s, American University had an acceptance rate close to 80%, but now it’s much lower, sometimes dropping to 26%. As a test-optional school for over ten years, AU looks at the whole applicant, not just grades and SAT scores. This means the supplemental essay plays a big role in helping applicants stand out. In this highly competitive environment, writing a strong supplemental essay is very important. It’s a great chance for students to show their writing skills and make a lasting impression on the admissions team. Applicants need to take the time to carefully craft their responses to show why they are a perfect fit for American University.
American University Supplemental Essay
The American University supplemental essay prompt for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle is straightforward but critical: “Why are you interested in American University?”
Applicants are given a tight limit of 150 words to make their case, akin to delivering an elevator pitch to a potential investor. This essay demands concise yet compelling content that highlights why AU is a top choice for the applicant.
Crafting Your Response
- Research and Specificity: Utilize school-specific research to tailor your response. Highlight unique aspects of AU that resonate with you, such as its diverse academic programs, global student body, robust student organizations, or renowned study abroad opportunities.
- Demonstrate Fit: Showcase how AU aligns with your academic and personal goals. Discuss how its academic offerings, small class sizes, research opportunities, internships, or campus culture contribute to your aspirations and interests.
- Avoid Common Pitfalls: Steer clear of generic statements and clichés. Instead, focus on specific features of AU that genuinely attract you. Avoid listing unrelated accolades or statistics that don’t directly contribute to your narrative.
Key Points to Consider
- Highlight AU’s unique offerings, such as its academic programs, global opportunities, research funding, and internships.
- Emphasize personal connections to AU’s values, community, or mission.
- Keep the response concise and impactful, utilizing every word to convey your enthusiasm and fit for AU.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Recycled Statements: Avoid regurgitating generic statements from other “Why Us?” essays. Such content can appear impersonal, stale, and irrelevant to AU’s unique qualities.
- Itinerary of Plans: Refrain from listing all the activities you plan to do in Washington, D.C. Instead, focus on how AU’s location enhances your academic and personal goals.
- Generic Statements: Steer clear of clichéd phrases like “AU feels like home” or “I’ve wanted to attend since kindergarten.” Provide specific examples and reasons to support your affinity for AU.
Strategies for Success
- Active Involvement: Demonstrate your potential as an engaged member of AU’s student body. Showcase your past and current experiences that illustrate your commitment to contributing positively to campus life.
- Evidence of Fit: Clearly articulate why AU is an ideal fit for you and vice versa. Provide concrete examples of how AU’s academic programs, faculty, research opportunities, and campus culture align with your interests and aspirations.
- Specific Citations: Reference specific aspects of AU that appeal to you, such as academic programs, professors, research opportunities, internships, study abroad programs, and student organizations. Tailor your essay to highlight how these resources will enhance your AU experience.
- Resource Utilization: Explain how you plan to leverage AU’s extensive resources both inside and outside the classroom to maximize your academic and personal growth. Showcase your proactive approach to taking advantage of AU’s offerings.
By avoiding common pitfalls and employing these strategies, you can craft a compelling “Why American U?” essay that resonates with the admissions committee and highlights your fit for AU’s vibrant community.
You may also like to read
- Top 12 Companies That Offer Tuition Reimbursement 2024
- American University Acceptance Rate | Strategies and Insights for Admission Success 2024
Importance of the American University Supplemental Essay
In American University’s applicant evaluation process, only two factors are designated as “very important”: the rigor of coursework and the GPA earned. In the second tier of importance are essays, recommendations, talent/ability, character/personal qualities, extracurricular activities, and volunteer work. It’s evident that essays, including both the main Common App essay and the supplemental prompt, hold considerable weight in this holistic assessment.
American University Supplemental Essay – Conclusion
While American University’s evaluation process considers various factors, including GPA and coursework rigor as the most crucial, essays play a pivotal role. As applicants strive to secure their place in this competitive environment, crafting compelling supplemental essays becomes essential. These essays offer candidates a unique opportunity to express their genuine interest in AU and showcase their potential contributions to the university community. Therefore, applicants should approach the supplemental essay with careful consideration and attention to detail, recognizing its significance in the overall admissions process.