The Boston College Supplemental Essays are an essential part of the application process, especially with the Class of 2027 having an acceptance rate of only 15%. With an average SAT score of 1511 for admitted students, strong academics are expected. However, grades alone aren’t enough—writing compelling essays is critical for standing out. Boston College provides several essay prompts for the 2023-24 admissions cycle, allowing applicants to showcase their individuality and why they are a good fit for the school. For students applying to the Human-Centered Engineering program, there’s a specific prompt, while other applicants can choose from four different options.
In this guide, we’ll explore the Boston College supplemental essay prompts and give tips on how to write responses that align with what the admissions committee is looking for. These essays offer a great opportunity to share personal stories and demonstrate how you can contribute to the Boston College community.
Boston College Supplemental Essays
Boston College Supplemental Essay Option #1: Each year at University Convocation, our incoming class engages in reflective dialogue with the author of a common text. What book by a living author would you recommend for your incoming class to read, and why would this be an important shared text?
In this prompt, you have the opportunity to recommend a book by a living author for the incoming class to read during University Convocation. Whether it’s a cherished fiction novel or a thought-provoking nonfiction work, choose a book that resonates with you deeply and can spark insightful discussions about the human experience. There are no restrictions on genre or theme—what matters most is your ability to articulate why this text would serve as a valuable shared resource for fostering meaningful dialogue among your peers.
Boston College Supplemental Essay Option #2: At Boston College, we draw upon the Jesuit tradition of finding worthwhile conversation partners. Some support our viewpoints while others challenge them. Who fulfills this role in your life? Please cite a specific conversation you had where this conversation partner challenged your perspective or you challenged theirs.
Reflect on individuals in your life who serve as valuable conversation partners, challenging your perspectives and beliefs. Whether it’s a family member, friend, mentor, or teacher, delve into a specific conversation where your viewpoints were challenged or evolved. Use this prompt as an opportunity to explore societal issues and conflicts, drawing upon real-life dialogues to illustrate your capacity for engaging in thoughtful discourse with others.
BC Supplemental Essay Option #3: In her November 2019 Ted Talk, “The Danger of a Single Story,” Chimamanda Ngozi Adichi warned viewers against assigning people a “single story” through assumptions about their nationality, appearance, or background. Discuss a time when someone defined you by a single story. What challenges did this present and how did you overcome them?
Explore instances where you were defined by a single story based on assumptions about your nationality, appearance, or background. Share the challenges you faced and how you overcame them, highlighting your resilience and ability to defy reductive judgments. Whether it’s confronting stereotypes or familial expectations, use this prompt to showcase your personal growth and resilience in the face of adversity.
BC Supplemental Essay Option #4: Boston College’s founding in 1863 was in response to society’s call. That call came from an immigrant community in Boston seeking a Jesuit education to foster social mobility. Still today, the University empowers its students to use their education to address society’s greatest needs. Which of today’s local or global issues is of particular concern to you and how might you use your Boston College education to address it?
Identify a local or global issue that holds personal significance to you and discuss how your Boston College education can empower you to address it. Ground your response in the university’s mission to foster intellectual development and ethical formation, demonstrating your commitment to citizenship, service, and leadership in a global society. Highlight any relevant community service or involvement that aligns with your chosen issue, showcasing your dedication to effecting positive change.
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How Important are the Essays at Boston College?
Boston College places considerable weight on various aspects of an applicant’s profile when evaluating candidates for admission. While GPA and the rigor of one’s curriculum are deemed “very important,” the essays are also recognized as a crucial component in the admissions process.
In addition to GPA and curriculum rigor, Boston College considers several other factors as “important” when assessing applicants. These include class rank, recommendations, extracurricular activities, talent/ability, character/personal qualities, legacy status, religious affiliation, and volunteer work. Among these, essays hold a notable position, indicating their significance in shaping the admissions decision.
Boston College Supplemental Essays – Conclusion
While Boston College weighs various factors in the admissions process, including GPA, extracurricular activities, and recommendations, the essays remain a critical component. As applicants prepare their applications, they should recognize the significance of crafting compelling and authentic essays that reflect their individuality and aspirations. By doing so, they can enhance their chances of standing out and securing a spot at this esteemed institution.