Conquer Emory University's Supplementals: '23-'24 Admission Cycle

Hello future Emory Eagles! With the application season for Emory University in full swing, it's time to make sure you nail those supplemental essays. In this blog post, we'll provide specific advice to help you create compelling responses.

Emory requires two short answer questions (150 words each) and one longer essay (300 words) for all applicants.

Short Answer Questions

1. What is your favorite fiction or non-fiction work (film, book, TV show, album, poem, or play)? Why?
2. What motivates you to learn?

For the first question, avoid mainstream picks and strive for unique selections that reflect your interests. Your 'why' is essential - it should provide a window into your personality or values.

Example: "My favorite non-fiction work is 'Sapiens' by Yuval Noah Harari. The book challenged me to think about the grand narrative of human history and our role in shaping the future. It resonated with my desire to influence societal progress through technological innovation."

The second question seeks insight into your academic motivations. Highlight intellectual curiosity, passion for a particular subject, or the desire to solve a specific problem.

Example: "My motivation to learn stems from a fascination with the human mind. Understanding its complexities not only gives me insight into human behavior but also equips me to address mental health issues, which I plan to do as a psychologist."

Longer Essay

Students applying to Emory University must answer one of the three prompts:

1. Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness.
2. When have you worked towards a goal and ultimately succeeded?
3. Share an example of an important conversation you had with someone. What did you learn from that conversation?

All three prompts aim to understand your personal growth, resilience, and open-mindedness. Choose the one that resonates most with your experiences.

For example, if you select the first prompt, discuss an experience where you've actively engaged with a culture different from yours, whether through travel, community service, or a school project.

Example: "Last summer, I volunteered at a non-profit in Kenya, aiming to bridge the educational gap in rural areas. This experience broadened my cultural awareness as I worked with local teachers, learning about their methods and struggles. The experience emphasized the importance of context-specific solutions and sparked my interest in global education."

If you choose the second or third prompt, discuss not just the achievement or conversation, but the journey or thought process behind it.

Your essays should showcase your unique perspective, maturity, and alignment with Emory's values. Good luck, future Emory Eagles!