How To Write Lehigh Supplemental Essays: A Comprehensive Guide
Lehigh University’s supplemental essays are a crucial part of your application. They offer you a chance to showcase your personality, interests, and fit with the university. This guide provides in-depth advice to help you craft compelling essays that stand out. We’ll dissect the prompts, offer practical tips, and help you avoid common pitfalls. Your goal: to write essays that make the admissions committee want you at Lehigh.
Understanding the Lehigh Supplemental Essay Landscape
Before you even think about writing, you need to understand the terrain. Lehigh’s supplemental essays aren’t just about repeating your resume or restating your grades. They’re about demonstrating your unique qualities and demonstrating why Lehigh is the right place for you. Each year, the prompts vary slightly, so always check the official Lehigh website for the most up-to-date information. However, the underlying goal remains consistent: to assess your suitability for the Lehigh experience.
Decoding the Lehigh Essay Prompts: What They Really Want
Lehigh’s prompts are designed to reveal specific aspects of your personality and goals. They often focus on these key areas:
Identifying Your Intellectual Curiosity
Lehigh values students who are intellectually curious. The prompts frequently ask about your academic interests, your favorite subjects, or what you are currently learning. This is your chance to showcase your passion for learning and your ability to think critically. Don’t just list subjects; explain why you find them fascinating. What questions do they raise? What discoveries have you made?
Exploring Your Extracurricular Engagement
Extracurriculars are a significant component of the Lehigh application. The supplemental essays give you an opportunity to delve deeper. They often ask about activities that have impacted you, the skills you’ve developed, or your contributions to a team or community. Focus on showing, not telling. Instead of simply stating your role, describe the specific actions you took, the challenges you overcame, and the lessons you learned.
Demonstrating Your Fit With Lehigh
Lehigh wants students who are excited about attending their university. This is where research comes in. Show you’ve done your homework. Research the university’s programs, faculty, research opportunities, and campus culture. The essays often ask why you’re interested in Lehigh. Be specific! Don’t just say you like the campus; mention a specific professor whose research aligns with your interests, a club you want to join, or a unique program that appeals to you.
Crafting Compelling Lehigh Supplemental Essays: Step-by-Step Guidance
Writing a strong essay requires a systematic approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Prompt Analysis and Brainstorming
Carefully read each prompt. Understand what the question is really asking. Brainstorm ideas that align with your experiences, interests, and goals. Don’t be afraid to jot down seemingly random thoughts; you can refine them later. Consider your strengths, the activities you’re most passionate about, and what makes you, you.
Step 2: Structuring Your Essay: The Power of Organization
A well-structured essay is easier to read and more impactful. A typical essay structure includes:
- Introduction: Hook the reader. Briefly introduce the topic and state your main point.
- Body Paragraphs: Develop your ideas with specific examples, supporting details, and insightful analysis.
- Conclusion: Summarize your main points and leave a lasting impression.
Step 3: Writing the First Draft: Getting Your Ideas on Paper
Don’t worry about perfection in the first draft. Just get your ideas down on paper. Focus on content over polish. Write freely, allowing your thoughts to flow. Don’t censor yourself; you can always edit and revise later.
Step 4: Revising and Refining: The Art of Editing
This is where the magic happens. Read your essay critically. Ask yourself:
- Does it answer the prompt directly?
- Is it clear, concise, and engaging?
- Does it showcase my personality and fit with Lehigh?
- Are there any awkward sentences or grammatical errors?
- Does it flow logically?
Make revisions to improve clarity, strengthen your arguments, and eliminate any weaknesses.
Step 5: Proofreading and Polishing: The Final Touch
Proofread your essay meticulously. Check for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting errors. Read it aloud to catch any awkward phrasing. It’s also helpful to have a friend, teacher, or mentor read your essay and provide feedback.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Lehigh Supplemental Essays
Certain mistakes can significantly weaken your application. Be sure to steer clear of these pitfalls:
Generic Responses: Avoid the Clichés
Don’t write generic essays that could apply to any university. Make your essays specific to Lehigh. Avoid clichés and overly broad statements. Show that you’ve put thought and effort into your responses.
Failing to Answer the Prompt: Staying on Track
Carefully read and understand the prompt before you begin writing. Make sure your essay directly addresses the question. Rambling or veering off-topic will hurt your chances.
Overly Formal or Informal Tone: Finding the Right Balance
While a formal academic tone is necessary, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Finding the right balance is crucial. Avoid sounding robotic or overly casual.
Lack of Specificity: Show, Don’t Just Tell
Don’t simply state your qualities or experiences. Provide concrete examples and specific details. Instead of saying you’re a good leader, describe a time you led a project and the positive outcomes.
Leveraging Lehigh’s Resources and Culture
Demonstrating your knowledge of Lehigh’s culture and resources is a great way to show that you are a good fit.
Researching Lehigh’s Academic Programs
Explore the specific programs and departments that interest you. Identify professors whose research aligns with your interests. Mention specific courses you’d like to take. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in Lehigh’s academic offerings.
Exploring Student Life and Campus Culture
Research clubs, organizations, and activities that appeal to you. Visit the campus if possible. Attend virtual events. Connect with current students to learn about their experiences. Show that you understand the unique aspects of Lehigh’s campus culture.
Highlighting Lehigh’s Values and Mission
Lehigh has specific values and a mission statement. Research these and incorporate them into your essays where appropriate. This demonstrates that you understand the university’s ethos and are aligned with its goals.
Beyond the Essay: The Holistic Application Process
Remember that your essays are just one part of the application. Your entire application should paint a clear and compelling picture of you.
Your Academic Record: The Foundation
Your grades, course rigor, and standardized test scores (if applicable) are the foundation of your application. Strive for strong academic performance. Your essays complement your academic record, but they cannot compensate for a weak one.
Your Extracurricular Activities: Showcasing Your Interests
Your extracurricular activities demonstrate your interests, passions, and commitment. Choose activities that genuinely interest you. Depth is often more valuable than breadth.
Letters of Recommendation: Seeking Support
Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths and character. Provide them with ample time to write their letters.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lehigh Supplemental Essays
Here are some common questions about Lehigh supplemental essays, answered in a way that goes beyond simple FAQs:
What if I haven’t done anything “extraordinary” to write about?
Don’t worry about having a “perfect” story. The admissions committee is looking for authenticity. Focus on the details of your experiences, no matter how small. Even seemingly ordinary activities can reveal a lot about your character and interests when you reflect on them thoughtfully.
How long should each essay be?
Adhere to the specified word count or length requirements. Don’t go significantly over or under the limit. If there isn’t a specified word count, aim for a length that allows you to fully answer the prompt without being overly verbose.
Is it okay to write about a negative experience?
Yes, but approach it thoughtfully. Focus on what you learned and how you grew from the experience. Don’t dwell on negativity; instead, highlight your resilience and ability to overcome challenges.
Should I use fancy language to impress the admissions committee?
No. Clarity and authenticity are more important than using complex vocabulary. Write in a natural, conversational tone that reflects your personality.
How can I get feedback on my essays?
Seek feedback from trusted sources, such as teachers, guidance counselors, or mentors. Be open to constructive criticism. Revise your essays based on the feedback you receive.
Conclusion: Crafting Your Lehigh Legacy
Writing compelling Lehigh supplemental essays is a process of self-discovery and strategic communication. By understanding the prompts, following a structured approach, and avoiding common mistakes, you can craft essays that showcase your unique qualities and demonstrate your genuine interest in Lehigh. Remember to be authentic, specific, and passionate. With careful planning, thoughtful writing, and diligent revision, you can write essays that make a lasting impression and increase your chances of being accepted to Lehigh University. Good luck!