Every year, students face the challenge of completing college applications, and a significant part of that process is tackling supplemental essays. The University of Massachusetts Amherst has released its 2024-2025 supplemental essay prompts, which require thoughtfulness and introspection. Below, we share the essay prompts and offer expert advice on how to approach them.
Essay Prompts
“Please tell us why you want to attend UMass Amherst?” (100 words)
“At UMass Amherst, no two students are alike. Our communities and groups often define us and shape our individual worlds. Community can refer to various aspects, including shared geography, religion, race/ethnicity, income, ideology, and more. Please choose one of your communities or groups and describe its significance. Explain how, as a product of this community or group, you would enrich our campus.” (100 words)
“Please tell us why you chose the Major(s) you did?” (100 words)
Understanding the "Why UMass Amherst?" Essay
The goal of this "Why UMass Amherst?" supplemental essay is to allow the admissions team to see your enthusiasm and fit for the university. Here are some tips:
Research thoroughly: Demonstrate your genuine interest by referencing specific programs, professors, or opportunities unique to UMass Amherst.
Be personal: Share a personal story or motivation that resonates with UMass’s values and offerings.
Stay concise: With just 100 words, make every sentence count, focusing on the most compelling reasons for your choice.
Sups AI, an AI college counseling platform, can help you brainstorm and refine your response, ensuring it stands out.
Narrating Your Community
This essay prompt examines how your community or group has influenced you and your potential contributions to the UMass Amherst campus. Here’s how to ace it:
Define your community: Clearly state which community you’re discussing, whether it’s related to geography, culture, hobby, or any other aspect.
Highlight significance: Share specific experiences that showcase how this community has shaped your journey and identity.
Connect to UMass: Explicitly state how the lessons and experiences from this community will help you contribute to the campus environment.
Using tools like Sups AI can be particularly helpful for drafting a narrative that’s concise yet impactful, ensuring your unique perspective is clearly conveyed.
Explaining Your Major Selection
This essay aims to understand your academic interests and how they align with the offerings at UMass Amherst. To write an effective response:
Be specific: Mention specific courses, faculty, or research opportunities that attracted you to the major at UMass Amherst.
Show passion: Share your journey and enthusiasm for the subject, including any projects or experiences that led to this decision.
Connect to future goals: Explain how the major will help you achieve your long-term objectives.
The guidance from Sups AI can help you craft a clear and compelling narrative about your academic aspirations and their alignment with UMass Amherst’s offerings.
Final Thoughts
Tackling the University of Massachusetts 2024-2025 supplemental essays can feel daunting, but with thoughtful reflection and thorough research, you can create essays that genuinely reflect your unique story and aspirations. For tailored advice and feedback, consider leveraging resources like Sups AI to ensure your application stands out.
