Applying to the University of Oregon this year? The university is offering a range of optional essay prompts for the 2024-2025 application cycle. Here’s a thorough breakdown of the new supplemental essays and how you can approach them effectively.
Understanding the University of Oregon’s 2024-2025 Supplemental Essay Prompts
The University of Oregon has provided two key essay prompts that applicants can choose from, each requiring a response ranging between 250-500 words. Here are the specific prompts:
“Describe an experience with discrimination, whether it was fighting against discrimination or recognizing your contribution to discriminating against a person or group. What did you learn from the experience? In what ways will you bring those lessons to the University of Oregon?”
“The University of Oregon values difference, and we take pride in our diverse community. Please explain how you will share your experiences, values, and interests with our community. In what ways can you imagine offering your support to others?”
Additionally, there is an optional section that allows you to discuss various personal circumstances that might have impacted your academic record or involvement in activities:
Your academic record might have included periods of low performance such as grades of D or F, inconsistent or downward trends in grades, deficiencies in particular subject areas, or discrepancies between your test scores and GPA.
Special personal circumstances such as the death or illness of a parent, caring for a family member, homelessness, frequent moves, or due to learning disabilities/differences or study habits.
You want to help us better understand how your involvement in activities was limited by work or family obligations, or by the unique setting of your school or community.
Any other information that is not provided elsewhere, or UO admissions staff told you to provide certain information in this space.
How to Approach the Essay Prompts
The University of Oregon’s supplemental essays give you a unique opportunity to showcase your personal experiences, values, and the ways you can contribute to the diverse community at the university. Here’s some detailed advice on how to craft compelling responses:
Essay Prompt 1: Experience with Discrimination
When tackling the first prompt, it’s essential to reflect deeply on personal experiences you’ve had with discrimination. This could be an experience where you fought against discrimination or realized your own role in discriminating against someone:
Be Honest: Share a genuine story and avoid exaggeration.
Reflect on Learning: Emphasize what you learned from the experience and how it has influenced your outlook or actions.
Connect to the University of Oregon: Explain how the lessons learned will help you contribute positively to the UO community.
Leveraging tools like Sups AI can be beneficial in brainstorming your narrative and receiving feedback on your drafts. Sups AI offers one-on-one chats with current students who can provide insights and constructive critiques.
Essay Prompt 2: Valuing Differences
This prompt allows you to discuss your unique experiences, values, and interests. Here’s how to approach it:
Showcase Your Uniqueness: Paint a vivid picture of your background, what sets you apart, and the special qualities you bring to the table.
Community Contribution: Explain how your qualities can benefit the University of Oregon’s community. Be specific about the ways you can support and engage with others.
Be Specific: Mention any clubs, organizations, or community projects at UO that align with your interests and values.
Again, tools like Sups AI can be invaluable, helping you to structure your thoughts and ensure your essay resonates with the admissions committee.
Optional Section
Use this section strategically to address any potential red flags or gaps in your application.
Be Transparent: Clearly explain any academic inconsistencies or unique personal circumstances.
Describe Actions Taken: Show how you have worked to overcome these challenges and what you’ve learned in the process.
Maintain a Positive Tone: Focus on resilience and growth.
There are many ways to frame your narrative effectively. Engaging Sups AI will allow you to receive tailored advice and ensure your message comes across clearly and compellingly.
Writing the University of Oregon’s supplemental essays might seem daunting, but with careful reflection and the right resources, you can create a memorable and impactful application. Good luck!
