Navigating Vanderbilt University's 2023-2024 Supplemental Essays

Welcome! In the journey towards becoming a Commodore, Vanderbilt University's supplemental essays are an essential checkpoint. This blog post will provide guidance to approach Vanderbilt's essay prompts and give you insights on how to make your application stand out.

Prompt: "Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (150-400 words)"

For this prompt, the key is to showcase your personal growth, values, and potential contributions to Vanderbilt's community. Here's an excellent example:

"I remember my first day as a volunteer at the local community center, nervously trying to juggle both children's needs and paints for our art project. Over the past three years, this experience has shaped me in profound ways. I learned to embrace the organized chaos, finding ways to help children express themselves creatively and solve disputes amicably. I also helped to coordinate fundraising campaigns to secure better art supplies and develop more comprehensive programs.

These experiences honed my skills in communication, conflict resolution, and project management. At Vanderbilt, I hope to continue contributing to the community, perhaps through the Office of Active Citizenship and Service, using the skills and passion nurtured in me by my time at the community center."

The above example clearly articulates the student's experience and how it has shaped them, while also connecting their past to future contributions at Vanderbilt.

In crafting your essay, choose an experience that had a significant impact on you and that demonstrates your growth and character. The best essays are those that connect past experiences with future aspirations at Vanderbilt.

In your response, take care to:

1. Select a meaningful experience: Whether it's an extracurricular activity, part-time job, or volunteering, pick something that shows your passion, dedication, or growth.
2. Show, don't tell: Describe the experiences and illustrate the skills you acquired, rather than just listing them.
3. Connect to Vanderbilt: How will this experience enhance your time at Vanderbilt, and how do you plan to continue this journey?

As you navigate Vanderbilt University's supplemental essay, remember that they are interested in learning more about your personal journey, your character, and how you can contribute to their community. Your goal is to present an authentic and engaging narrative that truly reflects your experiences and aspirations.

Best of luck in your application process!