How to Write the Dartmouth Supplemental Essays

Prompt 1: Why Dartmouth(100 words)

Essay Task:
Explain why Dartmouth’s academic programs, community, or campus environment attracts you.

Tips for Writing:
1. Research Deeply: Spend time learning about Dartmouth’s unique features (programs, traditions, research opportunities, etc.). Use resources like the college website or Common Data Set.
2. Be Specific: Mention unique offerings that align with your goals, such as a class, professor, club, or research opportunity.
3. Avoid Clichés: Don’t write about general aspects like location, reputation, or rankings.

Example Outline:
- Opening Sentence: State your academic and career goals.
- Body: List 2–3 Dartmouth-specific reasons connected to your interests and aspirations.
- Closing Sentence: Show excitement for being part of Dartmouth’s community.

Prompt 2: Introduce Yourself (250 words)

Essay Task:
Choose one prompt to describe your background, passions, or identity.

Tips for Writing:
1. Show Growth: Highlight how experiences have shaped your identity and aspirations.
2. Include Specifics: Use vivid details and examples from your life.
3. End with Reflection: Tie your story to what you hope to bring to Dartmouth.

Example Approach (Option 1: Personal Background):
- Opening: Describe a vivid moment from your upbringing (e.g., family dinners, a childhood tradition).
- Body: Connect it to your current passions and how it shaped your values.
- Closing: Reflect on how these values will guide you at Dartmouth.

Prompt 3: Choose One (250 words)

Essay Task:
Pick one prompt from several options. Examples include:
1. What excites you intellectually?
2. How do you make an impact?
3. What do you wonder about?

Tips for Writing:
1. Be Authentic: Write about what genuinely excites or motivates you.
2. Show, Don’t Tell: Use anecdotes to illustrate your points.
3. Connect to Dartmouth: Mention how you will continue to explore this interest at Dartmouth.

Example Approach (Option 3: Wonder):
- Opening: Start with a thought-provoking question or observation (e.g., “I often wonder about the intersection of art and science…”).
- Body: Discuss how this curiosity has influenced your learning or hobbies.
- Closing: Tie it back to how Dartmouth’s resources will help you explore this further.

General Writing Tips for All Prompts

• Stay Within the Word Limit: Every word counts. Be concise but impactful.
• Use a Strong Voice: Let your personality shine. Make it uniquely “you.”
• Proofread: Ensure your essays are polished and error-free.

Good luck crafting essays that stand out and reflect your authentic self!

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