Santa Clara University, known for its academic excellence and commitment to social justice, has released its 2024-2025 supplemental essay prompts. These essays are an opportunity for you to showcase your unique experiences, values, and aspirations. Let's break down the prompts and how to approach them effectively.
Overview of the Santa Clara University Supplemental Essay Prompts
Required: Why are you interested in pursuing the [Division or Major] selected above? (50 words)
Required: At Santa Clara University, we value our diverse and inclusive community. Our campus learning environment is enriched by the lived experiences of people from different backgrounds. What people, places, events, or circumstances have shaped the individual you are today, and how could you contribute to our community? (300 words)
Required: At Santa Clara University, we push our students to be creative, be challenged, and be the solution. Think about an ethical dilemma that you care about that our society is currently facing. This can be something happening in your local community or more globally. How can an SCU education help you prepare for and address this challenge? (300 words)
How to Approach Each Prompt
Prompt 1: Why are you interested in pursuing the [Division or Major] selected above? (50 words)
This prompt requires a concise yet impactful response. Here are some strategies:
Be Specific: Mention specific courses, professors, or resources at Santa Clara University that draw you to the program.
Show Passion: Use vivid language to describe your interest and enthusiasm for the field.
Connect to Your Goals: Briefly highlight how this major or division aligns with your long-term career aspirations.
Prompt 2: Diverse and Inclusive Community (300 words)
This is your chance to share your story and how it has prepared you to contribute to Santa Clara’s inclusive community. Here’s how to approach it:
Reflect Deeply: Think about the diverse experiences that have shaped you and how they give you a unique perspective.
Be Authentic: Share personal anecdotes and specific examples that highlight your background and experiences.
Envision Your Contribution: Discuss how you plan to engage with and enhance the SCU community. Tie in specific organizations, events, or initiatives you are excited to join.
Get Feedback: Consider using a platform like Sups AI to brainstorm and refine your essay. Sups AI offers one-on-one chats with current students who can provide valuable insights.
Prompt 3: Addressing an Ethical Dilemma (300 words)
This prompt requires you to think critically and demonstrate your problem-solving abilities. Follow these tips:
Choose a Relevant Issue: Select an ethical dilemma that resonates personally or that you are genuinely passionate about.
Explain the Problem: Provide context for the issue and why it matters to you.
Propose a Solution: Discuss how a Santa Clara education will equip you with the skills and knowledge to tackle this problem. Mention relevant courses, clubs, or programs.
Seek Feedback: Use Sups AI to get constructive feedback from experts and refine your essay.
Remember, Santa Clara University’s supplemental essays are a chance to highlight your individuality and your potential contribution to the SCU community. Take your time to reflect, write authentically, and leverage resources like Sups AI for the best results. Good luck!
