The "Why This College" essay is where most applicants blow it. They write generic praise that could apply to any school. Don't be that applicant.
Why This Essay Matters More Than You Think
The hidden purpose: Admissions officers use this essay to gauge "demonstrated interest"—whether you've actually researched the school or are just applying because it's prestigious. A generic answer signals you don't actually care.
What NOT to Write
- • "I've always dreamed of attending [School]"
- • "The beautiful campus" or "prestigious reputation"
- • "World-class faculty" without naming anyone
- • Anything you could copy-paste to another school
What TO Write
- • Specific professors and their research
- • Unique programs, courses, or opportunities
- • Student organizations you'd join (by name)
- • How YOU specifically would contribute
How to Research (The Right Way)
Most students Google "[School] programs" and call it research. Here's what actually works:
1. Find 2-3 Professors
Search the department website. Read their faculty bios and recent publications. Find someone whose work connects to your interests—be specific about WHY.
2. Identify Unique Courses
Browse the course catalog. Find classes that don't exist at other schools—or unique approaches to common subjects. Name them specifically.
3. Find Student Organizations
Look beyond the obvious clubs. Find niche organizations that match your interests. Even better: find projects or initiatives you could start.
4. Talk to Current Students
LinkedIn, Reddit, or official student ambassadors. Ask what they wish they'd known. Reference these conversations in your essay.
The Formula That Works
The 3-Part Structure
- 1. Your Interest (20%): What specific thing do you want to study or do?
- 2. Why HERE (60%): What specific resources at THIS school will help you? (Professors, programs, courses, clubs)
- 3. What You'll Contribute (20%): What will YOU bring to this community?
Critical: Every sentence should pass the "only this school" test. If you could swap in another school's name without changing anything, rewrite it.
Strong vs Weak: Real Examples
Weak Example (Generic)
"I've always wanted to attend Stanford because of its prestigious reputation and beautiful campus. The world-class faculty and diverse student body make it the perfect place to pursue my passion for computer science."
Problem: Could apply to 50 other schools. No specifics, no research.
Strong Example (Specific)
"Professor Emma Brunskill's work on reinforcement learning for education—particularly her 2023 paper on adaptive tutoring systems—directly addresses questions I explored in my high school research on personalized learning. I'd love to contribute to her lab while taking CS 234 and exploring how AI can make quality education accessible regardless of zip code. Beyond academics, I want to join Stanford's Code the Change and help build tech solutions for local nonprofits like I did with the Oakland Food Bank app."
Strength: Names a professor + paper, specific course, clear connection to student's interests, concrete contribution plan.
Name names: Professors, courses, clubs, initiatives
Connect to your story: Why does THIS school fit YOUR specific goals?
Show, don't just claim: Don't say you did research—prove it