How To Write Brown Supplemental Essays

How to Write Winning Brown Supplemental Essays

Brown University, known for its Open Curriculum and vibrant student body, attracts thousands of ambitious applicants each year. The supplemental essays are your chance to showcase your personality, passions, and fit with Brown's unique academic environment. This guide will help you craft compelling essays that stand out from the crowd.

Understanding Brown's Supplemental Essay Prompts

Brown's supplemental essays typically focus on:

• Your intellectual curiosity: Brown values students who are intellectually engaged and eager to explore diverse subjects. Your essay should reflect this inquisitiveness.
• Your personal qualities: Brown seeks students who are thoughtful, engaged, and contribute positively to the campus community.
• Your fit with Brown's unique programs: Highlighting your interest in specific programs, like the Brown Arts Initiative or the Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME), can demonstrate your thoughtful application.
• Your unique perspective: Brown wants to understand you, your experiences, and what makes you different. Don't be afraid to be authentic and vulnerable.

Crafting Compelling Brown Supplemental Essays: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Analyze the Prompts Carefully:

Read each prompt thoroughly, paying attention to the specific questions being asked. Understand the underlying message and what Brown is hoping to learn about you. Don't rush this step.

2. Brainstorm and Choose Your Best Story:

Choose a story or experience that genuinely reflects your personality and aligns with the prompt. Don't force a story; select one that naturally connects to Brown's values and your own aspirations. Consider experiences that demonstrate:

• Intellectual curiosity: Did you independently pursue a complex research project? Did you engage in a rigorous debate or challenging intellectual discussion?
• Personal growth: Have you overcome a significant challenge or obstacle? Have you learned from a failure?
• Community engagement: Have you been involved in a community project or initiative that demonstrates your commitment to others?

3. Craft a Compelling Narrative:

• Show, don't tell: Instead of simply stating your qualities, use vivid descriptions and compelling anecdotes to illustrate them.
• Focus on the details: Use sensory language to paint a picture for the reader. Engage their emotions and senses.
• Maintain a consistent tone: Your essay should have a clear voice and style that reflects your personality.

4. Connect Your Story to Brown:

Explicitly connect your experiences and aspirations to Brown's unique offerings. Mention specific programs, professors, courses, or extracurricular activities that resonate with you. This demonstrates that you've done your research and that you are genuinely interested in attending Brown. This is crucial to demonstrating a good "fit."

5. Edit and Proofread Meticulously:

Once you've written your essay, take the time to edit and proofread it carefully. Check for grammar and spelling errors, clarity, and flow. Ask a trusted friend, teacher, or mentor to review your essay for feedback. A fresh pair of eyes can catch errors you might have missed.

Examples of Strong Brown Supplemental Essay Topics

• Overcoming a significant academic challenge: Detailing how you overcame a difficult academic hurdle, showcasing resilience and intellectual curiosity.
• Exploring an unconventional passion: Sharing a unique hobby or interest and connecting it to Brown's open curriculum.
• Impacting your community: Describing a community project you were involved in and highlighting the skills you gained.
• Responding to a specific Brown program: Focusing on a specific Brown program (like PLME or the Brown Arts Initiative) and how your interests align with it.

By following these steps and staying true to yourself, you can write compelling Brown supplemental essays that effectively showcase your strengths and help you stand out from the crowd. Remember, authenticity is key! Good luck!