Mastering Harvard University's 2023-2024 Supplemental Essays
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The supplemental essays for Harvard University are your ticket to stand out among the sea of applicants. In this blog post, we'll delve into this year's prompts, furnish you with actionable tips, and provide examples of successful essays from previous cycles.
Prompt 1: Your intellectual life may extend beyond the academic requirements of your particular school. Please use the space below to list additional intellectual activities that you have not mentioned or detailed elsewhere in your application. (150 words)
Harvard seeks students with diverse intellectual interests beyond their academic curriculum. Be authentic and let your passion shine through.
A captivating example from a 2021 application reads:
"Besides my school's curriculum, I've developed a profound interest in environmental conservation. After reading Rachel Carson's 'Silent Spring,' I became acutely aware of the ecological crisis our planet faces. I initiated a local cleanup campaign, spending my weekends collecting litter from the neighborhood park. Wanting to spread awareness, I started a blog, 'EcoBuzz,' where I discuss the importance of conservation, the damaging effects of plastic, and everyday green practices. I've also conducted workshops in my school promoting waste segregation and recycling. Through these activities, I strive to be a part of the solution to the environmental challenges that intrigue and concern me."
Prompt 2: Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome? (500 words)
Harvard values students with the audacity to question, probe, and defy conventional wisdom. Share a narrative that exhibits your ability to critically think and adapt.
An insightful example from a 2022 application shares:
"Growing up in a traditional family, gender roles were distinctly defined. Over time, however, I began questioning these norms. I vividly remember a family gathering where my cousins and I were segregated based on gender - boys were discussing politics in the living room while girls were expected to help in the kitchen. The stark contrast in our roles gnawed at me.
Mustering up courage, I joined the boys' discussion, challenging the stereotypical norms of my family. My interjection was met with surprise but sparked a fascinating debate. We argued, discussed, and finally arrived at a mutual understanding of the need to challenge these outdated norms.
Post the gathering, I decided to take action. I started 'BreakTheStereotype,' an online platform promoting gender equality. It became a space for sharing experiences, raising awareness, and advocating change. Through this platform, I organized a few community events like 'Cook with Dad' and 'Code with Mom,' blurring the gender-specific roles.
The response was heartening. My family started sharing household chores, unbound by gender. My platform influenced my community, and I could see the traditional stereotypes slowly crumbling.
Challenging a deep-seated belief was difficult, but it was rewarding to witness the change. The experience solidified my belief that questioning and open dialogue are the first steps toward societal change."
As you draft your Harvard University supplemental essays, remember, your experiences, intellectual curiosities, and your ability to question and learn are what will make your application shine. The admissions committee is excited to understand you - so make your essays a true reflection of who you are.
Good luck, and let your writing resonate!
