amherst supplemental essays 2024

Admission & Financial Aid Information about the Writing Supplement

Section navigation, amherst college writing supplement options.

Below you'll find the prompts for the writing supplement in the 2023-24 application cycle (Fall 2024 entry term).

In addition to the main essays you must write as part of the Common Application, Apply Coalition with Scoir, or QuestBridge Application, Amherst requires a supplementary essay of all applicants.

There are three options for satisfying Amherst's supplementary writing requirement for the first-year application: Option A, Option B or Option C. Applicants may elect only one of those options. Before deciding, you should carefully read the descriptions of all three options (including specific conditions associated with Option B and Option C) to determine which is most appropriate for you. Please note that these descriptions are provided for convenience of preview only; your actual writing supplement should be submitted through the Common Application or Apply Coalition with Scoir online system (unless you are submitting the QuestBridge application only , in which case you will be instructed on how to email, mail or fax your supplement to our office).

Option A

Choose one of the following quotations, and respond to the question posed, in an essay of not more than 350 words. It is not necessary to research, read, or refer to the texts from which these quotations are taken; we are looking for original, personal responses to these short excerpts. Remember that your essay should be personal in nature and not simply an argumentative essay.

"Amherst College is committed to learning through close colloquy and to expanding the realm of knowledge through scholarly research and artistic creation at the highest level. Its graduates link learning with leadership—in service to the College, to their communities, and to the world beyond." – from the Mission of Amherst College

Prompt 1 Question: What do you see as the benefits of linking learning with leadership and/or service? In your response, please share with us a time where you have seen that benefit through your own experience.

"We seek an Amherst made stronger because it includes those whose experiences can enhance our understanding of our nation and our world. We do so in the faith that our humanity is an identity forged from diversity, and that our different perspectives enrich our inquiry, deepen our knowledge, strengthen our community, and prepare students to engage with an ever-changing world." - from the Trustee Statement on Diversity and Community

Prompt 2 Question: In what ways could your unique experiences enhance our understanding of our nation and our world?

"Strong commitment to the freedom of inquiry lies at the heart of Amherst College’s mission to create a home in which the liberal arts may flourish. As a small residential liberal arts college that prides itself on the ability, curiosity, and diversity of its students, Amherst seeks to create a respectful environment in which members of its community feel emboldened to pursue their intellectual and creative passions." – from the Amherst College Statement of Academic and Expressive Freedom

Prompt 3 Question: Tell us about an intellectual or creative passion you have pursued; what did you learn about yourself through that pursuit?

Option B

Submit a graded paper from your junior or senior year that best represents your writing skills and analytical abilities. We are particularly interested in your ability to construct a tightly reasoned, persuasive argument that calls upon literary, sociological or historical evidence. You should not submit a laboratory report, journal entry, creative writing sample or in-class essay. Also, if you have submitted an analytical essay in response to the "essay topic of your choice" prompt in the Common Application or Apply Coalition with Scoir writing section, you should not select Option B.

Curious about Option B? Learn more ....

If you are/were an applicant to Amherst's Access to Amherst (A2A) program, you may use your A2A application essay in satisfaction of our Writing Supplement requirement. If you would like to do so, please select Option C. However, if you would prefer not to use your A2A essay for this purpose and you want to submit a different writing supplement, select either Option A or Option B. Option A, Prompt 2 is the same prompt as the A2A application essay; if you would like to submit an updated version of your A2A application essay, please choose Option A.

Please note that Option C is available only to applicants to Amherst's A2A program. Non-A2A applicants must choose either Option A or Option B.

How to Write the Amherst College Supplemental Essays: Examples + Guide 2023/2024

What are the amherst college supplemental essay prompts.

Amherst Supplemental Essay: Quote #1
Amherst Supplemental Essay: Quote #2
Amherst Supplemental Essay: Quote #3

Additional Personal Information

Extracurricular Activities Essay

Research Essay (Optional)

From its open curriculum to its commitment to fostering a diverse student body representative of the multicultural fabric of America, Amherst is all about giving its students options. And it shows in its supplemental prompts—each offering you a chance to demonstrate not just who you are and what you value, but how you think. In the spirit of freedom of choice, school officials are even giving you the opportunity to skip the first (and longer) of the three essays and instead submit a graded paper from your junior or senior year. While that may be tempting (one less essay to write—yes!), we’d recommend you choose Option A, responding to Amherst’s own prompt. Why? Because 1) it shows initiative, and 2) Option A invites you to write a response that’s personal to you—an excellent chance to give Amherst a deeper glimpse of your values/insights/experiences. Why pass that up? And—bonus!—you may be able to save yourself some time and still show initiative by writing a “super” essay. More on that, and Amherst’s other two prompts, below.

But first, if you want a better sense of what Amherst is looking for, you can get an extensive, by-the-numbers look at its offerings, from enrollment and tuition statistics to student life and financial aid information, on its Common Data Set . For deep insights into how this private liberal arts college wants to grow and evolve, read its strategic plan .

Respond to one of the following quotations in an essay of not more than 350 words. It is not necessary to research, read, or refer to the texts from which these quotations are taken; we are looking for original, personal responses to these short excerpts. Remember that your essay should be personal in nature and not simply an argumentative essay.

Quote #1: “Amherst College is committed to learning through close colloquy and to expanding the realm of knowledge through scholarly research and artistic creation at the highest level. Its graduates link learning with leadership—in service to the College, to their communities, and to the world beyond." – from the Mission of Amherst College

Quote #1 Question: What do you see as the benefits of linking learning with leadership and/or service? In your response, please share with us a time where you have seen that benefit through your own experience.

Quote #2 “We seek an Amherst made stronger because it includes those whose experiences can enhance our understanding of our nation and our world. We do so in the faith that our humanity is an identity forged from diversity, and that our different perspectives enrich our inquiry, deepen our knowledge, strengthen our community, and prepare students to engage with an ever-changing world.” – from the Trustee Statement on Diversity and Community

Quote #2 Question: In what ways could your unique experiences enhance our understanding of our nation and our world?

Quote #3 “Strong commitment to the freedom of inquiry lies at the heart of Amherst College’s mission to create a home in which the liberal arts may flourish. As a small residential liberal arts college that prides itself on the ability, curiosity, and diversity of its students, Amherst seeks to create a respectful environment in which members of its community feel emboldened to pursue their intellectual and creative passions.” – from the Amherst College Statement of Academic and Expressive Freedom

Quote #3 Question: Tell us about an intellectual or creative passion you have pursued; what did you learn about yourself through that pursuit?

Submit a graded paper from your junior or senior year that best represents your writing skills and analytical abilities. We are particularly interested in your ability to construct a tightly reasoned, persuasive argument that calls upon literary, sociological or historical evidence. You should not submit a laboratory report, journal entry, creative writing sample or in-class essay. Also, if you have submitted an analytical essay in response to the "essay topic of your choice" prompt in the Common Application writing section, you should not select Option B. Instead, you should respond to one of the four quotation prompts in Option A. (FAQ here)

If you were an applicant to Amherst’s Access to Amherst (A2A) program, you may use your A2A application essay in satisfaction of our Writing Supplement requirement. If you would like to do so, please select Option C on either the Common Applications or the Coalition Application. However, if you would prefer not to use your A2A essay for this purpose and you wish to submit a different writing supplement, select either Option A or Option B. (Please note that Option C is available only to students who were applicants to Amherst’s A2A program.)

If you would like to share more about yourself that is not captured elsewhere in your application, please tell us more here. (175 words)

Activities (Required)

Please briefly elaborate on an extracurricular activity or work experience of particular significance to you. (Maximum: 175 words)

If you have engaged in significant research in the natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, social sciences or humanities that was undertaken independently of your high school curriculum, please provide a brief description of the research project. (75 words)

🤔🤔 Wondering which essay prompts your schools require?

We’ve been keeping a running list. Head over to our new 2023-2024 School-Specific Supplemental Essay Prompt Database to find your school.

How to Write Each Supplemental Essay Prompt for Amherst College

How to write amherst supplemental essay option a.

Respond to one of the following quotations in an essay of not more than 300 words. It is not necessary to research, read, or refer to the texts from which these quotations are taken; we are looking for original, personal responses to these short excerpts. Remember that your essay should be personal in nature and not simply an argumentative essay.

Before we get to the quotes, a few things to think about when approaching this option and choosing which quote to write about:

Ask how this essay adds to your Amherst application as a whole. That likely will require you to brainstorm and choose your topics before you start writing, not just for Option A, but for the Additional Personal Information and Activities prompts too. Why approach it this way? With each application you submit, you want to show as many sides of yourself as possible; each prompt is yet another chance to show your schools of choice why you’re a great fit for their campus. What experiences/skills/values/insights do you want Amherst to know about that you haven’t already shared in your Common App personal statement? If there’s a cool extracurricular activity you want to talk about, for example, maybe save that for the Activities prompt, and talk about a different set of experiences or activities here—one that doesn’t overlap too much with what you want to write about in the Additional Personal Information essay.

Make it personal. Take Amherst officials seriously when they go out of their way to urge you to write an essay that’s “personal in nature.” They’re telling you they don’t want an academic dissertation on the meaning of empirical analysis or achievement; they want to know more about you —how that big brain of yours sorts through big ideas, how those ideas connect with experiences you’ve had, skills you’ve developed, and the ways in which you’ve grown, as a student and a human. The goal here is to get a deeper sense of you and the contributions you’d make to the Amherst community in terms of fresh ideas and perspectives. To that end ...

Choose the quote that most resonates with you and generates the most material for an essay about your experiences/values/skills. Pick out keywords you can build an essay around—whether it’s leadership and service (Quote #1), diversity and community (Quote #2), or intellectual and creative passions (Quote #3).. If what you end up writing is tangential to the quote, that’s OK. By expressly saying you don’t have to research the entire text the quote is excerpted from, Amherst officials are leaving it open to your interpretation and its application to your life, whatever that may be. So, there’s no “right” way to answer this prompt. There are a gazillion right ways.

Consider writing a “super” essay. Look at the essays you’re writing for other schools. Is there a topic you’re already writing about that could fit one of these quotes? If so, save yourself some time and write a “super” essay. And by that, we don’t just mean a Really Great essay. We mean an essay that can work for a number of prompts, with some modest, necessary tweaking to answer the specifics of each prompt. For example, Stanford’s “meaningful” prompt or numerous schools’ “community” prompts might overlap nicely, depending on which quote you respond to. Sign me up, you say? Check out this full guide to the “super” essay .

Now, to those quotes, and a brief discussion of each ...

“Amherst College is committed to learning through close colloquy and to expanding the realm of knowledge through scholarly research and artistic creation at the highest level. Its graduates link learning with leadership—in service to the College, to their communities, and to the world beyond."

– from the Mission of Amherst College

This isn’t your traditional leadership or service essay, because the focus here isn’t really on what you’ve done. And it's not necessarily on how you learned to become a better leader or community member, either. Rather, it’s a chance for you to highlight the unique connections and insights you’ve made and gained through those accomplishments.

You learn so much from the people you surround yourself with. So Amherst uses this prompt to gauge the degree to which you’re open to new perspectives and perspective shifts—because that openness signifies your willingness to be wrong, to change, and to realize there’s a whole big world out there that needs leaders who understand how to grow. So take this chance to look back on a leadership or service opportunity and how you benefited from the growth that occurred. (But in case: a heads up to be wary of the stereotypical “I went on a mission trip to help others but really they helped me” essay.)

“We seek an Amherst made stronger because it includes those whose experiences can enhance our understanding of our nation and our world. We do so in the faith that our humanity is an identity forged from diversity, and that our different perspectives enrich our inquiry, deepen our knowledge, strengthen our community, and prepare students to engage with an ever-changing world.”

- from the Trustee Statement on Diversity and Community

Prompt 2 Question: In what ways could your unique experiences enhance our understanding of our nation and our world?

Even if you don’t think you’re bringing unique experiences to the Amherst table, we assure you that you are. While there will likely be similarities (sometimes many of them) between your experiences and those of others, the things that have happened to you have happened to only you. So every member of the potential student body—you included—can help foster a better understanding of those around us.

While some students have religious, socioeconomic, or race-based experiences to share, not all do. So if you find yourself unsure of what you’d contribute, think about the activities and experiences that have been particularly memorable. How have they contributed to some sort of fundamental shift in your thinking, and could you use them to foster the same shift in others? For even more tips on writing this kind of essay, check out our “How to Write the Diversity Essay” guide, and be sure you’re thinking about how you want to address the “enhance our understanding” aspect of the prompt (one way to approach this is to treat it as a “how will you contribute” question).

Pro tip: If you’re wondering if what you’re writing is really speaking to the prompt, sprinkle in a few keywords from the quote to show how you’re incorporating its concepts. Just don’t overdo the references, as that may seem overly gimmicky.

“Strong commitment to the freedom of inquiry lies at the heart of Amherst College’s mission to create a home in which the liberal arts may flourish. As a small residential liberal arts college that prides itself on the ability, curiosity, and diversity of its students, Amherst seeks to create a respectful environment in which members of its community feel emboldened to pursue their intellectual and creative passions.”

– from the Amherst College Statement of Academic and Expressive Freedom

Prompt 3 Question: Tell us about an intellectual or creative passion you have pursued; what did you learn about yourself through that pursuit?

We love that Amherst gives you the freedom on campus to pursue the things you’re curious about and interested in, and this prompt is a great way to show them the curiosity and passion you’ll be bringing to campus. In some ways, this could be considered an extracurricular activity essay (which we’ve got top-notch instructions for in this guide ). But Amherst doesn’t just want to know what you did. Instead, this is for some deep introspection about how you’ve changed because of your pursuits. How did you grow because of your experiences?

Pro Tip: Cover an intellectual or creative passion and a lesson you haven’t covered anywhere else in your application. You want to make sure you’re covering a breadth of topics to cover as many sides of you as possible! (And side note that we’re wary about the word “passion”—if you feel you don’t have one, that’s totally fine, and generally standard; it may be more useful, and healthier, to think in terms of what kinds of driving curiosities you have, rather than “passions.”)

With that guidance in mind, here are some sample essays. Note that because these prompts are new this year, we don’t have examples written specifically for them, but the essays below demonstrate how you can approach these prompts (and also illustrate what we mean by a “super essay”).

Example:

Example essay:

When I started Tang Soo Do (Korean Martial Arts) in 3rd grade, I didn’t know I would find a role in serving the community through the structure, discipline, and traditional customs. Sharing my skills with others drives my service. As I moved up in ranks, I loved showing younger students my skills because I knew the significance of having a role model in class. I often demonstrated the proper form of a flying side kick to students having trouble. I also helped my fellow older students persevere through tough workouts, whispering words of encouragement and sparring with others to improve our collective skills. Transitioning from kid to adult classes, I encountered a lack of motivation due to tougher workouts and drills. However, through these experiences, I learned to teach without being overbearing, to stick with a commitment, and to communicate better with students when fists are being thrown around. Tang Soo Do instilled confidence in my abilities to accomplish many of my goals. Outside of the studio, I used my improved teaching skills to help younger kids in my school's mentoring program, teaching them respect and organization. I also entered Green Key, my school's ambassador program. In this program, I lead groups of prospective students around campus, providing an example of what a model student looks like by using my organization, communication, and knowledge. Martial arts has developed some of my core values: organization, guiding others, and effective communication. It has also served as an incredibly enjoyable outlet for exercise. (250 words) — — —

Tips + Analysis

Make outside connections. Your response should include how you’ve incorporated these “lessons learned” into other areas of your life. In the example above, the student connects what they’ve learned through Tang Soo Do and how they’ve really internalized that lesson and used it in other ways—from participating in mentoring programs to engaging in ambassador programs.

Dig deeper. Think about what you really got out of the leadership and service activities you were involved in. We’d bet it goes far beyond just leadership and service. While the student above focuses almost exclusively on how they developed their leadership skills, for an Amherst-specific response, they might’ve also considered what respect looks like for different populations and what they learned about respect. Or how communication needs to be different when addressing fist-wielding martial arts students versus prospective academic students.

SHOW, don’t just TELL. There’s a difference between telling a reader that you are something and giving the proof that backs it up. Consider this: You can tell people you’re a millionaire, but until you back it up with bank statements and deeds to your 10 vacation homes, people might not believe you. Same thing in your essays. Consider the student in the essay above. While they tell us they learned and taught respect and organization, they could take their essay up to black-belt level by describing (showing) how they did it .

For quote 2, here’s an essay that was actually written for another school: UT Austin. But notice that if the author just shifts the few phrases and details specific to Austin (we’ve bolded them) the essay can fit this Amherst prompt perfectly, since like all good essays, the focus is the student and their values, qualities, etc. We’ve left the original so you can see how it would double up. This is what we mean by writing a “super” essay.

When someone hears Alabama, or specifically my hometown of Birmingham, they might think of the epicenter of the Civil Rights movement, college football hysteria, and controversial laws. I’ll be the first to admit: my home state is far from perfect. Born and raised in Alabama as an Indian-American, I have experienced the positives and negatives. Yet, the lessons I have learned growing up have shaped me into who I am and taught me values I wish to evolve at UT Austin. Every morning I walk to my blue-eyed godfather’s garage to get my car; he lets me use it because he has an extra spot. When I drive through the neighborhood, it’s normal to smile and wave to strangers. When a crisis arises, like my grandmother falling while she and I were home alone, neighbors immediately came to help, some I had never met before—the famous Southern hospitality revealed. Volunteering at TechBirmingham, I’ve developed a responsibility to give back to my community. As a Longhorn, I look forward to continuing my impact in Austin through the CS outreach programs. In addition to being an avid member of Code Orange, I wish to be an instrumental leader in developing and implementing new programs and initiatives to further educate the budding STEM youth. Growing up in Alabama, I have learned the value of community. Whether it is helping our neighbors in a time of need or educating and mentoring kids in the community that need guidance, I know that a strong community creates strong leaders. I wish to bring my perspective and value of community to the Longhorn family—ensuring that all my peers are supported and successful. — — —

Think beyond the traditional. While the prompt itself mentions diversity and differing perspectives, remember that the differences we embody encompass a wide range of things—from holding certain religious beliefs to calling fizzy drinks soda, pop, or Coke. While the student above briefly mentions their Indian-American heritage, they choose to not focus on the unique experience they’ve almost certainly had and to instead focus on the value of community they’ve developed from living in the South.

Maybe add some “Why us?” elements. Amherst doesn’t have a “Why us?” prompt like many schools do. So consider using Option A as an opportunity to sprinkle in those Amherst-specific details—reasons why you’re drawn to the school and what you’d do with the opportunities there. Notice that in the following sentence, the Austin details can be changed to details specific to Amherst (or just about any other school …): “As a Longhorn, I look forward to continuing my impact in Austin through the CS outreach programs. In addition to being an avid member of Code Orange, I wish to be an instrumental leader in developing and implementing new programs and initiatives to further educate the budding STEM youth.” Why do this? It helps Amherst admission readers envision you on campus, not just learning but contributing. Here’s a full guide to the “Why us?” essay for more tips.

Use details to bring your story to life. Details are the chalk and blackboard to the “show me, don’t just tell me” school of thought. By providing color, anecdotes, and examples, you help your reader take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the story you’re trying to tell. That not only makes your essay more engaging, it makes it more memorable. Like this: “Every morning I walk to my blue-eyed godfather’s garage to get my car; he lets me because he has an extra spot. When I drive through the neighborhood, it’s normal to smile and wave to strangers. When a crisis arises, like my grandmother falling while she and I were home alone, neighbors immediately came to help, some I had never met before--the famous Southern hospitality revealed.” Those “show me” details do a beautiful job of illustrating, and paying off on, this “tell me” thesis statement: “Yet, the lessons I have learned growing up have shaped me into who I am and taught me values I wish to evolve at UT Austin.”

Here’s a great example essay for Quote #3:

Prompt 3 Question: Tell us about an intellectual or creative passion you have pursued; what did you learn about yourself through that pursuit? (350 words)

Sensing the colors and details of the world, I’ve held paint brushes since the beginning of my memories and for years, have carried my camera wherever I go. In short, the eye—what we see, feel, and create through it—has always fascinated me. Sophomore summer, photographing the Cochabamba streets, I was mesmerized by the colors, stories, and personality expressed through street art. Beginning to understand art as a means of self-expression and belonging to the streets, I saw a future not simply in creating art, but in understanding its significance, by pursuing art history. Junior year, I produced a paper “Street Art in NYC: Breaking the Boundaries Between Art and Life,” delving into art’s potential to connect many individuals. Since then, I’ve initiated a Bolivia photojournalism showcase, helped organize an exhibition on Beijing’s gentrification, and exhibited my pictures and articles on Ojai. Staring at the portrait of Oziel, a burrito shop owner, a classmate commented, “I only knew he made the best burritos. Thank you for sharing who he is.” Inspired, I again discovered art’s power to connect individuals. Last summer in Beijing, I curated a Bolivian Mural Art exhibition, showcasing street artist Puriskiri’s paintings. Working with the artist, gallery, and teammates while designing layouts and programs, I became even more motivated to understand the inner-workings of curation. I’ve also taken Studio Art and Art History and was lucky enough to attended YYGS’s Creative Arts & Media program. There, I examined punk and low theory, John Turnbull and romantic poetry, dance as a way of research accessible to all, and ultimately produced a film conveying different cultures’ perception of “home.” Over the past years, almost every single step has pointed me to Art History. Again and again, I’ve imagined examining art in NYC and furthering my appreciation of cultures around the globe. — — —

Convey that passion. Again, with the caveat that it’s totally fine to not have a “passion,” and to focus instead on things you have a deep curiosity about, if you’re truly passionate about a topic, that passion should come through in your writing. One way to do that is through uber-specific examples. In this sample essay, the student shows us their passion through the topics they explore—Beijing’s gentrification, Cochabamba’s streets, and Puriskiri’s paintings, to name a few. These topics—and the fact that they’re slightly obscure ones at that—show us the student really knows their stuff.

Address the values in the pre-prompt quote. Amherst is looking for passionate students, sure, but they also pride themselves on students’ “ability, curiosity, and diversity.” So make sure you consider ways to convey those values, too. The student above shows curiosity and diversity by diving into different mediums of art, aspects of its creation and curation, and its history. Going in deep on a topic while also going wide shows that you’re just as emboldened as this student in pursuing your curiosity.

Make sure you address the learning side of the prompt. While this (obviously talented) student has been able to connect their interests (art and photography) with what they’ve learned (the power to connect individuals), we don’t clearly see what they learned about themselves along the way—and that’s an important part of the prompt. One way the student might’ve addressed that part of the prompt, had they been writing this essay for Amherst, would be to explore what they learned about connection or curation specifically and how that applies to other areas of their life.

How to Write the Amherst Additional Personal Information Essay

If you would like to share more about yourself that is not captured elsewhere in your application, please tell us more here. (Maximum: 175 words)

You probably caught that “if” at the front of the second sentence, and thought: I don’t have to write this one. And you’d be right—technically (Amherst does love its options). But (you guessed it) we’d recommend writing it anyway, because … (see reasons 1 and 2 listed in the intro on why to choose Option A).

The beauty of this prompt is that it’s wide open in terms of potential topics. Identity, background, family, culture or community—you’re bound to have an interesting story to tell (or likelier, several). And odds are high that it’ll be unique to you, which is a great way to stand out. Because you’re working with such a small word count, though, it may be better to focus on one (identity, community, etc.), so you can give it the attention it deserves, rather than writing more briefly about several.

Below are some ideas for brainstorming a topic. As you think through your options, ask yourself: Which best allows me to speak to my identity and isn’t something I’ve already shared in my application?

Identity : List out all the ways you identify. Is there something on the list that's particularly important to you, or maybe one you've struggled with? If so, what have you found challenging about it? It could be something like being an ambivert, or coming out as LGBTQ+, or having a “natural mom vibe.” Pro tip: Try to a) choose something that’s uncommon (the closer it is to something only you can write about, the stronger), or b) if it’s more common, offer details that are unique to you.

Background : This could be your family background, your cultural background, your own personal background (hobbies, interests, friendships, educational experiences)—in other words, “background” can be defined however you want it to be. Just think about how it would relate to your identity.

Family : Is there something unique about your family that you haven’t yet shared with Amherst? It may be something that’s central to your identity—maybe it’s a story about immigrating to America, or being the latest in a long line of coders in the family. Or it could be an interesting family story that you connect with on a deep level—how your grandfather’s Menonite upbringing taught you the power of giving back, or how your great-grandmother escaped from a Nazi concentration camp. Just make sure that you’re still the main character of the story: how does it illuminate an important influence on how you came to be … you?

Culture : This can be defined rather broadly, so think through which aspects resonate with you and your experiences (race & ethnicity, socioeconomic class, learning a new language, etc.). It could be how rolling spanakopita with your Yiayia taught you the value of attention to detail, or how you were the only one in your generation to learn Polish, because you couldn’t stand the thought of that family connection dying out.

Community : This tends to be our favorite option, because many schools ask about communities you’ve been a part of, how you’ve contributed to them, and what you’ve gained from them. So chances are you may be writing this essay for another school, giving you another opportunity for a “super” essay. Here’s a step-by-step guide that offers a short exercise to help you think through all the communities you’re a part of that might make a good topic for this particular essay.

Here’s a great example for this one:

Liberating: the instant I fully submerge underwater as bubbles rush towards the glassy surface. From synchro, to swimming, and finally to water polo, aquatic sports have defined each stage of my life. My focus shifts from my daily concerns to moving in the water whether I’m competing with seven other girls, slicing through choppy waves during laps, or passing the ball. I’m free to embody what I truly value. In synchro, I go from upright to upside down, but I always finish with my head held high, since perspective and confidence are key. While racing, I respect the boundaries of my lane and balance my arms and legs to swim efficiently. From water polo, I learn to stay afloat and scan for those blocking the goal, remaining resolute as I overcome obstacles. My qualities in the pool define who I am today, and are reflected in my academic and daily experiences on land. — — —

Try to choose a single but elastic topic. Again, you have a tight word count, so it’s probably best to pick one identity to write about, but one that allows you some breadth to talk about other areas of your life. This student chose aquatic sports, which allowed her to write not only about multiple sports (synchronized swimming, competitive swimming, and water polo) but also how the lessons she’s learned translates out of the water too (teaching her confidence, perspective, respect for boundaries, overcoming obstacles, etc.).

Show your values. Yep, we’ve mentioned this one before. But it bears repeating because it’s so important. Reading through this example, you get a strong sense of a number of values: determination, respect, personal development, health and fitness, responsibility, success (you get the point).

Bonus: Metaphors are fun. This is absolutely not necessary, but any time you can have fun with words, you can achieve a key aspect of good writing: craft. And that can help your reader better engage with your essay, which in turn can help your essay stand out. For this author, it was moving from the physical—going from upright to upside down in synchronized swimming—to the metaphorical: holding her head high with confidence and perspective. She keeps that technique going with respecting boundaries and overcoming obstacles—both physical and metaphorical.

How to Write the Amherst Extracurricular Activities Essay

The extracurricular activity essay prompt is a common one, especially for selective schools like Amherst—because it’s a great way to get a glimpse into your values/interests/experiences/skills through the lens of an activity that’s meaningful to you. For the full guide on how to write this essay, go here .

A few things to think about as you brainstorm your topic:

Note that the prompt asks about “an” activity. That’s intentional, so choose one activity to focus on—ideally, one that allows you to show multiple sides of yourself or your values/interests/experiences/skills.

Search through your Activities List and Additional Information section for ideas—but don’t limit yourself to those. Why? Because maybe there’s something fun/unusual that you do that won’t make those lists—like, say, your axe-throwing hobby or your kickboxing routine or those scrolls you write, just for fun. The key is to choose something that will a) help you stand out and b) give Amherst more insights into who you are and what you value.

Have a bunch of options and stumped as to which to choose? Do the BEABIES exercise on the ones you’re considering. Which topic yields the best content? Write about that one. Just make sure you …

Don’t repeat something you’ve already focused on in your personal statement. At the risk of redundancy, remember: The point here is to use this essay to show Amherst another side (or sides) of you.

Here’s an example of a strong essay for this prompt:

I look up at the wall. This feels impossible. “Just go for it!” my friend Jack says to me. “It seems harder than it is.” During my first year climbing, I spent much time contemplating all possible routes and strategies. But gradually I’ve realized: because my perspective is limited as I stand on the ground, there’s only so much I can tell from looking ahead. Sometimes it is better to just go for it. Over the last couple of years this lesson has served me well: Had I known the difficult rhyme patterns I’d have to follow, I may not have written my play. Had I known the amount of reading ahead of me, I may not have started my research on Neo-Confucianism. “Come on, [Student]!” Jack again. I look up at the wall. Still feels impossible. But I put a hand on it. Then a foot. Then pull up. — — —

Start off with something kind of unexpected. In a 175-word essay, we don’t necessarily expect someone to admit that something could go wrong. However, this author is honest about feeling doubt as she looks up at the wall she’s trying to climb. This draws readers in as they question how she’ll overcome this obstacle and find a way to get to the top. It creates suspense and also shows that the author is willing to be vulnerable.

Make connections. Although this essay is primarily about one activity (climbing), the author cleverly weaves in connections to other activities. She notes that the lessons she learned from climbing have given her the guts to write her own play and the motivation to start research on Neo-Confucianism. Those activities aren’t the focal point of the essay, but they help us learn more about the applicant. Although you actually do have to choose only one activity to answer this prompt, this is a great example of how you can use connections to smuggle in more parts of yourself.

Show growth. At the start of this essay, the author is at an impasse. Climb the wall or don’t climb the wall? Impossible or manageable? By the end, the author has demonstrated that she’s the kind of person willing to take on the seemingly impossible. What we like is that she doesn’t focus on whether or not she actually got to the top of the wall. She’s more interested in the mindset it takes to get started. The growth she demonstrates is subtle, but the fact that she can reflect on it well shows maturity and self-awareness.

Choose an uncommon topic (if you can). Sure, this student could’ve written about being president of the debate club. Or how she’d played piano for eight years. But many students write about those things. You know what fewer students write about? Climbing.

Pro tip: While you may worry that a less “impressive” (in terms of accomplishments) extracurricular activity won’t show off your strengths as well, consider using your Activities List and Additional Information section to emphasize what you’ve done, and use this essay to show a more uncommon side of yourself.

How To Write the Research Essay (Optional)

This prompt is truly optional, so we’d recommend not trying to stretch something that doesn’t really fit just for the sake of submitting something—that could even hurt more than help.

But if you’ve engaged in research in some way, whether through an organization or independently, this can be a nice spot to demonstrate some further skills and values by highlighting what you researched and what skills you gained.

Here’s are some examples adapted from UC Activities List entries and PIQs. The second and third would need some word count cuts, but you can learn a ton from their specificity.

Independent Study Last year, I researched and presented a thesis for an Interim Semester project on Singapore’s aging population. I utilized census data to analyze socioeconomic status in relation to population demographics, and designed an interactive website cross-referencing the average age of inhabitants with poverty rates. As part of my project, I also created an actionable plan to improve living conditions for elderly.

When I joined UCLA’s Laboratory for the Chemistry of Construction Materials, their primary project was to design a concrete that can sequester CO2. My individual research project, which aimed to solve a part of the problem, focused on the dissolution kinetics of calcite to better understand calcite stability in cementitious solutions. I designed and conducted experiments to test calcite dissolution in solutions containing organic ligands including EDTA, citrate, and acetate. My tests were largely unique because they were the first to be conducted in alkaline pH regions due to the nature of cementitious systems. I imaged the surface of my samples with a Vertical Scanning Interferometer (VSI) and analyzed the data with the micro-nano software Gwyddion. My results have applications for breaking down calcite in cement to sequester CO2.

I studied the crevice corrosion of Ti-6A-4V, a titanium-aluminum-vanadium alloy, which has applications ranging from oil pipelines to medical implants. In order to characterize the corrosion of Ti-6Al-4V due to the breakdown of its passive film, I applied immersion and electrochemical tests. My experiments were conducted in an artificial saliva solution with fluoride and chloride to understand how dental implants respond to hygiene rinses and toothpastes in a simulated human mouth environment. My results help characterize the inition of crevice corrosion due to harmful anions, which has not been previously studied.

Want advice on dozens of other supplemental essays? Click here

Special thanks to Julia for contributing to this post.

Julia published her first “book” on the elusive Pika in elementary school and has been writing fervently ever since. She’s thrilled to unite her quirky love of grammar and master’s in psychology to help students tell their most meaningful stories. Her favorite punctuation mark is the apostrophe because, in the words of Imagine Dragons, it’s “a symbol to remind you that there’s more to see.”

Top values: Collaboration | Family | Productivity

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How to Respond to the 2023/2024 Amherst College Supplemental Essay Prompts

Cece Gilmore is a Content Writer at Scholarships360. Cece earned her undergraduate degree in Journalism and Mass Communications from Arizona State University. While at ASU, she was the education editor as well as a published staff reporter at Downtown Devil. Cece was also the co-host of her own radio show on Blaze Radio ASU.

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How to Respond to the 2023/2024 Amherst College Supplemental Essay Prompts

Amherst College is a selective and top-ranked liberal arts college with an acceptance rate of 9% . They offer unique benefits that combine liberal arts education and the resources of a university, due to being a part of the Five College Consortium . Since it is a highly competitive school, applicants will need to make their Amherst supplemental essays stand out from the others.

Fortunately, Amherst provides some variety in options for applicants responding to the Amherst supplemental essays. So, let’s learn in this guide how you can ace the Amherst supplemental essays!

Before answering Option A in the Amherst supplemental essay questions

Option A asks applicants to choose from three quotes and respond to them.

Amherst provides its applicants with some vague and open ended direction for responding to the provided quotes. This means there is some freedom in your response allowing you to truly interpret a quote the way that makes the most sense to you. Remember that supplemental essays are intended to get to know the applicants better. So be sure to select a quote that stands out to you!

In addition, the word count for this response is 350 words. This may seem like a lot, but once you start writing it can feel a bit restrictive. Therefore, be sure to brainstorm and plan out what you want to write about. Make sure you are getting your main points across without exceeding the 350 word limit.

Quote option #1

Quote option #1 questions to consider : What do you see as the benefits of linking learning with leadership and/or service? In your response, please share with us a time where you have seen that benefit through your own experience.

Quote option #2

Quote option #2 question to ask yourself : In what ways could your unique experiences enhance our understanding of our nation and our world?

Quote option #3

– from the Amherst College Statement of Academic and Expressive Freedom

Quote option #3 question to consider: Tell us about an intellectual or creative passion you have pursued; what did you learn about yourself through that pursuit?

“Submit a graded paper from your junior or senior year that best represents your writing skills and analytical abilities. We are particularly interested in your ability to construct a tightly reasoned, persuasive argument that calls upon literary, sociological or historical evidence. You should not submit a laboratory report, journal entry, creative writing sample or in-class essay. Also, if you have submitted an analytical essay in response to the “essay topic of your choice” prompt in the Common Application writing section, you should not select Option B. Instead, you should respond to one of the four quotation prompts in Option A.”

Option B is a backup in case you have a writing piece you are extremely proud of. Otherwise, you should stick to responding to one of the Option A quote prompts. Essentially, you have to decide what will provide an Amherst admissions officer with the most well-rounded idea of you.

Amherst’s website has a helpful FAQ for Option B if you are interested in it!

Option C – for A2A program students only

“If you were an applicant to Amherst’s Access to Amherst (A2A) program, you may use your A2A application essay in satisfaction of our Writing Supplement requirement. If you would like to do so, please select Option C on either the Common Applications or the Coalition Application. However, if you would prefer not to use your A2A essay for this purpose and you wish to submit a different writing supplement, select either Option A or Option B. [Please note that Option C is available only to students who were applicants to Amherst’s A2A program. Non-A2A applicants must choose either Option A or Option B.]”

This option is only available for students who were applicants to Amherst’s A2A program. The A2A program is available to aid minority students while at Amherst. Therefore, if this option does not apply to you – do not respond to it! Rather select option A or option B for your Amherst supplemental essay.

Before submitting your Amherst supplemental essays

Before submitting the Amherst supplemental essays, be sure to proofread! You can do this by reading them yourself or asking a trusted friend, parent, or teacher to read it over for you. Remember, you only have one shot to submit your application to Amherst so you want it to be flawless.

Make sure your response not only answers the prompt but also reveals pieces of your personality throughout the essay. You want the Amherst admissions office to get a good sense of who you are as not only a student but a person.

Next steps after applying to Amherst

Now that you have figured out which of the Amherst supplemental essays is the best for you – it is time to write! Be sure to plan out what you will write to ensure that all of your main points are included.

Once you have completed your Amherst supplemental essay question – congratulations! Take a deep breath and go treat yourself to something special! You did it!

Now that you have a beautiful Amherst supplemental essay written – it is officially time to submit your application! Once your application is submitted, be sure to check your Amherst portal and email for updates on your application status.

Now, you are not done with the admissions process! Continue to show demonstrated interest in Amherst by

Following them on social media
Scheduling an in-person tour
Reaching out to an admissions officer

This will give you an opportunity to get to know Amherst more! It will also provide Amherst with the opportunity to get to know you better as well.

Good luck on the rest of your college journey!

Additional resources

We know how stressful this time can be for students! So, we have a lot of resources available for students going through the college admissions process. We can help you determine what is a high SAT score , how many schools to apply to , how to get a college application fee waiver and so much more. And if you’re thinking that college is not for you check out some top alternatives to four-year universities. And if financial issues are hindering your choices check out our free scholarship search tool to help fund your education!

Other colleges to consider

Dartmouth College (Hanover, NH)
Vassar College (Poughkeepsie, NY)

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How to Write the Amherst Supplement 2023-2024

Amherst is the platonic ideal of a New England liberal arts school. With a small student body and a 1,000-acre campus with views of mountains and forest in Amherst, Massachusetts, the school has a picturesque serenity and college-town charm. It welcomes the free spirit (its “open curriculum” means you have no core requirements), and there’s no shortage of academic options despite its size and rural location. As part of the Five College Consortium (including Hampshire, Mount Holyoke and Smith Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst), Amherst offers its students access to over 7,000 courses and over 10 million items within its inter-library system. That being said, Amherst’s incoming Class of 2027 only had a 9% acceptance rate, so getting in is a doozy.

Another wonderful thing about Amherst is its historical support of low-income, high-talent students. It was one of the first schools to eliminate loans from its financial aid packages so that attendees could graduate without debt. They meet 100% of demonstrated need, and a majority of its current students receive aid from the college.

Amherst is test-optional but does have a mandatory writing supplement, and with such competitive admissions, it’s important that you nail this portion of your application. In this blog, we’ll do a deep dive into the supplement so you can get your app in early and maybe find yourself next fall walking around, drinking apple cider, and bumping into the ghost of Emily Dickinson on campus. And if that doesn’t sound cool to you? Grow up! Hope is a thing with feathers, ok? And this is us flapping our wings, or something, as we lay this metaphor and our dignity to rest.

Narrowing Down the Writing Prompts

No offense to Amherst ( some offense to Amherst), but they’ve made the writing supplement more complicated than it needs to be. You only need to write one supplemental essay, but they offer three different options on topics (and one option even has several prompts to choose from). We got prongs on prongs, baby. But stress not — from where we’re sitting, there’s really only one choice for serious applicants, and that’s Option A. Bear with us, and we’ll explain why that is as we go through them one by one.

Option A: Choose one of the following quotations, and respond to the question posed, in an essay of not more than 350 words. It is not necessary to research, read, or refer to the texts from which these quotations are taken; we are looking for original, personal responses to these short excerpts. Remember that your essay should be personal in nature and not simply an argumentative essay.

See that last sentence? That’s the headline here. Memorize it! This general principle should guide your college application practice at large, and you should know it as well as your crush’s birth chart or the latest TikTok dance trend to nearly cost us our life. Be personal . This is not the space to pseudo-intellectualize and try to look smart. Showing off is inauthentic and just creates more distance between you and a board of strangers. These officers know you’re bright! They’ve got your transcript and your Common App essay. This is your chance to show them something else.

What you need to do here is tell a story that helps readers get to know you better and illustrates how you’ll contribute to their student body. Now we can jump into the prompts, because they won’t all be equally good fits for the story you have to tell.

Prompt 1: "Amherst College is committed to learning through close colloquy and to expanding the realm of knowledge through scholarly research and artistic creation at the highest level. Its graduates link learning with leadership—in service to the College, to their communities, and to the world beyond." – from the Mission of Amherst College

What do you see as the benefits of linking learning with leadership and/or service? In your response, please share with us a time where you have seen that benefit through your own experience.

As you can see, the quote is just a springboard for the question, and the question is upfront: why is it important to pair education with leadership or service, and when have you experienced that impact yourself? This essay is a good fit for most students. You can tell a story about a time you held a leadership position or otherwise volunteered your time and changed or grew as a result of your involvement.

This prompt allows you to talk about causes or activities that mean a lot to you and have helped develop you into the person you are today, and it also allows you to show enthusiastic alignment with the college’s mission — to expand knowledge through collaboration and to make the world better as a result.

Prompt 2: “We seek an Amherst made stronger because it includes those whose experiences can enhance our understanding of our nation and our world. We do so in the faith that our humanity is an identity forged from diversity, and that our different perspectives enrich our inquiry, deepen our knowledge, strengthen our community, and prepare students to engage with an ever-changing world.” - from the Trustee Statement on Diversity and Community

In what ways could your unique experiences enhance our understanding of our nation and our world?

This quote highlights a fundamental value of the school, and it voices the beautiful sentiment that diversity does not divide us but unifies us into a stronger whole. Firstly, that’s true. Secondly, we’ll call it as we see it and say that this is Amherst clearly checking their DEI box. So, don’t meet performativity with performativity (game does not recognize game here). It’s great if you’re a #ally, but if you haven’t meaningfully engaged in activist work — or, frankly, if your identity has not significantly impacted the way you move through the world up to this point — this is not the prompt for you. Keep in mind that your goal here is not to show agreement but to share more about yourself and how you’d fit into this particular college environment.

However, many students have perspectives that are truly unique! If you feel that your childhood or high school trajectory was off the beaten track, or if you have had notable experience thinking about and supporting diversity, absolutely share your story here.

Prompt 3: “Strong commitment to the freedom of inquiry lies at the heart of Amherst College’s mission to create a home in which the liberal arts may flourish. As a small residential liberal arts college that prides itself on the ability, curiosity, and diversity of its students, Amherst seeks to create a respectful environment in which members of its community feel emboldened to pursue their intellectual and creative passions.” – from the Amherst College Statement of Academic and Expressive Freedom

Tell us about an intellectual or creative passion you have pursued; what did you learn about yourself through that pursuit?

This question is just — chef’s kiss! Comparable to Prompt 1, this question gives you a wonderful opportunity to reveal your personality and self-growth through narrative. The only difference is the framework. Rather than linking what you learned about yourself to the relationship between education and service, you’re rooting your development in your primary interest, the one anchoring your pursuit of higher education.

If you feel like this is the story you told in your Common App essay, don’t repeat yourself. This is valuable space! Make sure you use these 350 words to illuminate a new side of yourself. If Prompt 1 allows you to be more specific by talking about an extracurricular you haven’t discussed yet, you can focus on that one. However, you can use Prompt 3 to talk about any additional interest you may have.

Amherst is big on intellectual freedom, hybrid projects, and collaborative work. Over 45% of its students graduate with double majors, so don’t be afraid to introduce a new passion here!

Option B: Please submit a graded paper from your junior or senior year that best represents your writing skills and analytical abilities. We are particularly interested in your ability to construct a tightly reasoned, persuasive argument that calls upon literary, sociological or historical evidence. You should NOT submit a laboratory report, journal entry, creative writing sample or in-class essay. If you have submitted an analytical essay in response to the "essay topic of your choice" prompt in the Common Application writing section, you should NOT select Option B.

Children, children, please gather round. We will be on our deathbed repeating, “not every option is an option, and optional never means optional.” If you use this option, you will be taking years off our life. Okay, that was dramatic, and we’re mostly kidding, but seriously — we don’t think this is a good option for anyone.

First of all, even Amherst is giving disclaimers not to use this option if it’s close to your Common App. More importantly, Option A — and its many thoughtful prompts — prove how much value Amherst puts in the personal. This is not only impersonal, because it’s an analytical essay, but the readers open it knowing you didn’t write this paper with them in mind. You already had it finished, on deck. No matter how great your persuasive paper is, it won’t erase the knowledge that you, as an applicant, didn’t care enough to do the additional work of a more personalized supplement.

Finally, we’d argue that this option is fundamentally unnecessary. Your grades and transcript already speak to the fact that you’ve learned to write compelling analytical papers, and you’ve indicated your academic interests elsewhere on your application. The only new information they’ll have about you if you choose Option B is that you went for the cop-out. Sorry for the tough love, but also you’re welcome.

Option C: If you are/were an applicant to Amherst's Access to Amherst (A2A) program, you may use your A2A application essay in satisfaction of our Writing Supplement requirement. If you would like to do so, please select Option C. However, if you would prefer not to use your A2A essay for this purpose and you want to submit a different writing supplement, select either Option A or Option B. Option A, Prompt 2 is the same prompt as the A2A application essay; if you would like to submit an updated version of your A2A application essay, please choose Option A.

Wait, you mean to tell me that this application presents Option C as a secret, third thing when it’s actually just… Option A, Prompt 2 in a trench coat? That’s right! So don’t sweat this one. If you are an applicant to the A2A program, you don’t have a choice at all — you’ve already written the essay. If you were an applicant but you’d like to alter your essay, you can make any necessary changes and submit the edited version to Option A, Prompt 2. And if this doesn’t apply to you? Great! Time to move along.

Thankfully, we’ve come to the end of the Amherst supplement. It might look like a maze on first glance, but remember that you’re really making a simple choice. What stories from your life best illustrate who you are and why you should be at Amherst? What quote is most connected to those stories? Be thoughtful, be you, and you’ll be great.

Not sure what your story is? We can help with that. Contact us here !

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Amherst Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

By Eric Eng

Are you dreaming of joining the Amherst College class of 2023-2024? You’re not alone! Amherst College is a place where bright minds come together to learn, grow, and explore new horizons. But before you start this exciting journey, there’s a bridge you need to cross – the 2023-2024 Amherst supplemental essays.

These essays are your chance to introduce yourself to the folks at Amherst and show them why you’d be a great fit for their community. They want to get to know you beyond your grades and test scores. It’s your time to shine, and we’re here to help you make the most of it. So, let’s dive in and uncover the secrets to crafting stellar supplemental essays that will set you on the path to your dream college.

How Many Writing Supplement Options Does Amherst College Offer?

The Writing Supplement options for Amherst College for the 2023-24 application cycle provide applicants with three distinct choices :

Option A: Applicants choose one of three given quotations and respond to the associated question in an essay of no more than 350 words.
Option B: Applicants submit a graded paper from their junior or senior year that showcases their writing skills and analytical abilities.
Option C: Exclusive to applicants of Amherst’s Access to Amherst (A2A) program, this option allows the submission of their A2A application essay to fulfill the Writing Supplement requirement.

Each option is designed to assess different aspects of an applicant’s abilities and interests, from creative and personal responses to analytical and academic prowess.

Amherst’s Writing Supplement Option A

This option allows prospective students to engage deeply with thought-provoking quotations and questions, reflecting the college’s emphasis on critical thinking and personal insight.

Option A comprises three distinct prompts, each based on a quotation related to Amherst College’s values and mission. The first prompt centers on the college’s dedication to linking learning with leadership and service, inviting applicants to reflect on the benefits of this connection. This prompt seeks to understand how the applicant views the interplay between education and societal contribution, potentially drawing from personal experiences.

The second prompt focuses on diversity and inclusion, core values of Amherst College. Applicants are encouraged to contemplate how their unique experiences can enhance their understanding of our nation and the world. This question not only highlights the college’s commitment to a diverse student body but also challenges applicants to reflect on their own backgrounds and the perspectives they bring.

The third and final prompt of Option A allows applicants to delve into their intellectual or creative passions. It aims to uncover the applicant’s commitment to their interests and what they have learned about themselves through these pursuits. This prompt aligns with Amherst’s liberal arts ethos, encouraging students to explore and develop their passions.

Each of these prompts, limited to 350 words, is designed to elicit personal, original responses, providing a window into the applicant’s thoughts, experiences, and values. They are not intended for research-based or argumentative writing but rather for introspection and personal expression.

Amherst’s Writing Supplement Option B

Amherst College’s Writing Supplement Option B offers a unique opportunity for applicants to showcase their analytical and writing abilities. This option requires the submission of a graded paper from the junior or senior year of high school. While choosing the right paper might seem daunting, here are five key points to consider:

1. Reflect on Analytical Strength: Choose a paper where you’ve demonstrated strong analytical skills. Ideally, this would be an essay where you’ve developed a tightly reasoned argument, showcasing your ability to dissect complex topics. The paper should reflect a mature understanding of the subject and your capacity to engage with ideas at a deep level. For instance, a literary analysis or a history paper where you’ve had to weigh different perspectives and draw informed conclusions would be ideal.

2. Assess Writing Quality: Your paper should exemplify your best writing skills. Look for a work that is not only structurally sound and grammatically correct but also demonstrates a sophisticated use of language. The essay should flow logically, with clear introductions, well-developed paragraphs, and a strong conclusion. Consider revisiting your paper to make minor edits for clarity and impact, ensuring it represents your highest level of writing proficiency.

3. Evidence-Based Argumentation: The essay should ideally call upon literary, sociological, or historical evidence. This means choosing a paper where you’ve effectively used evidence to support your arguments. It’s not just about stating facts, but how you weave these facts into your argument, showing an ability to think critically and make connections.

4. Avoid Certain Types of Papers: Amherst specifically advises against submitting laboratory reports, journal entries, creative writing samples, or in-class essays. Therefore, focus on finding a paper that aligns more with an analytical essay or research paper. This distinction is crucial as it underlines Amherst’s interest in your intellectual and analytical capabilities rather than creative or reflective writing.

5. Consider Paper Uniqueness: Lastly, consider the uniqueness of your paper. It should stand out in terms of topic, argumentation, and insight. Select a paper that speaks to your intellectual curiosity and areas of interest. For example, a paper on a less commonly discussed historical event or a novel interpretation of a literary work can be more impactful. This uniqueness will not only engage the admissions committee but also give them a glimpse into your academic passions and thinking style.

Overall, the choice of paper for Option B should be strategic, reflecting both your academic strengths and your personal intellectual journey. By carefully considering these points, you can select a paper that not only meets the criteria set by A mherst College but also provides a compelling glimpse into your academic capabilities and potential as a student.

Amherst’s Writing Supplement Option C

Option C of the Amherst College Writing Supplement is specifically tailored for applicants who are part of the Access to Amherst (A2A) program. This option allows these applicants to u se their A2A application essay to fulfill the Writing Supplement requirement. The key idea here is to provide an easier and more streamlined application process for A2A applicants, acknowledging the work they have already put into their A2A application.

If an A2A applicant chooses not to use their existing A2A essay, they have the freedom to select either Option A or Option B for the Writing Supplement. This flexibility ensures that A2A applicants aren’t limited to their previous essay and can showcase other aspects of their abilities if they choose.

It’s important to note that Option C is exclusively available to A2A applicants, highlighting Amherst College’s commitment to supporting students from diverse backgrounds and making the college application process more accessible. Non-A2A applicants, on the other hand, must choose between Option A and Option B.

In essence, Option C is a thoughtful inclusion in the application process, recognizing the unique experiences of A2A applicants and offering them an alternative that respects their previous application efforts.

Amherst College’s Access to Amherst (A2A) Program

Amherst College’s Access to Amherst (A2A) program is a sign ificant initiative aimed at fostering diversity and inclusivity in the college environment. Designed to introduce high school seniors to the college’s campus, community, and academic offerings , A2A is particularly focused on supporting students from marginalized communities.

This includes African-American, Hispanic/Latin-American, Native American, and Asian-American students, as well as first-generation college students, those from low-income families, and students from rural or urban Title I schools.

A key aspect of the A2A program is its commitment to making the college admissions process more accessible. To this end, the program offers several benefits to its applicants, regardless of whether they are ultimately invited to participate in the program. These benefits include a waiver of Amherst’s admission application fee and the opportunity to participate in a virtual Mock Application Workshop with admission deans.

Eligibility for the program is straightforward: applicants must be high school seniors residing in the U.S. during the fall of 2023. The application process involves submitting an online application, a copy of the transcript through junior year, and a list of confirmed or intended senior classes.

Moreover, the A2A program ensures that selected students can visit Amherst College without financial burden. The program covers 100% of round-trip transportation costs and offers on-campus hosting by current students. This approach not only alleviates financial concerns but also provides a comprehensive experience of college life at Amherst.

What are the 2023-2024 Amherst Supplemental Essay Prompts?

These are the supplemental essay prompts you’ll be answering if you pick Option A. The second prompt is the same as the A2A application essay, which you can submit if y ou choose Option C. If you want to submit an updated version of your A2A application essay, go ahead and choose Option A. Here are the said prompts:

What do you see as the benefits of linking learning with leadership and/or service? In your response, please share with us a time where you have seen that benefit through your own experience.

In what ways could your unique experiences enhance our understanding of our nation and our world?

Tell us about an intellectual or creative passion you have pursued; what did you learn about yourself through that pursuit?

How to Write the 2023-2024 Amherst Supplemental Essays

Understanding the question.

This essay prompt provided by Amherst College invites you to take a deeper look at the relationship between three fundamental concepts: learning, leadership, and service. It offers you a chance to show that education goes beyond simply gathering information; it encompasses the vital aspects of applying what you’ve learned to lead and contribute to the betterment of others.

In essence, this prompt encourages you to explore how your educational journey shapes your perspective on leadership and service. It’s an invitation to delve into the realization that acquiring knowledge isn’t an isolated pursuit but a foundation upon which you can build leadership skills and engage in meaningful acts of service.

You can use this opportunity to share experiences or moments when your education empowered you to become a leader or inspired you to make a positive impact through service. By reflecting on these instances, you can demonstrate not only your comprehension of the interconnectedness of learning, leadership, and service but also your ability to put these principles into practice in your life. This prompt essentially asks you to articulate how your educational journey has equipped you to be a responsible and compassionate leader who actively contributes to the welfare of your community and beyond.

Crafting Your Response

1. Personal Experience with Leadership or Service: Begin by recalling a specific instance where you took on a leadership role or engaged in a service project. Describe the situation in detail, emphasizing your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. This story should illustrate not just your ability to lead or serve, but also how these experiences were learning opportunities for you. Reflect on the skills and knowledge you gained and how they have shaped your perspective or actions.

2. Impact on Community or Peers: Discuss the impact of your leadership or service experience on those around you. Did you lead a team to achieve a common goal? Did your service project address a specific community issue? Explain how your actions benefited others, fostering a sense of community, collaboration, or improvement. This point can highlight your ability to understand and respond to the needs of a group, an essential aspect of both leadership and service.

3. Personal Growth and Learning: Reflect on how this experience contributed to your personal growth. Did it challenge your preconceptions or push you out of your comfort zone? Talk about how this experience enhanced your problem-solving skills, emotional intelligence, or ability to work with diverse groups. Emphasize that learning through leadership or service is dynamic and often involves adapting to new situations, which is a crucial skill in both academic and professional settings.

4. Linking Experience to Future Goals: Connect this experience to your future aspirations. How has it shaped your academic interests or career goals? Discuss how you plan to continue this blend of learning, leadership, and service at Amherst College and beyond. This connection demonstrates forward-thinking and shows the admissions committee that you’re not only reflecting on past experiences but also considering how these experiences will influence your future.

5. Understanding of Amherst’s Mission: Finally, relate your experiences and aspirations back to Amherst College’s mission. Show that you understand and value the college’s emphasis on linking learning with leadership and service. This shows the admissions committee that you align with their values and are likely to contribute positively to their campus culture.

This particular supplemental essay prompt revolves around the theme of diversity and its role in enhancing our knowledge of both the nation and the world as a whole. Essentially, it’s prompting you to consider how your distinct experiences and personal background play a part in this diversity and further enrich our collective comprehension.

The goal is to convey how your presence and perspective contribute positively to a diverse and inclusive community, such as the one at Amherst College. You can discuss specific instances where you’ve actively engaged with diverse perspectives, participated in activities that promote inclusivity, or worked towards a more inclusive environment.

By sharing your experiences and insights, you demonstrate your commitment to fostering a broader understanding of the w orld and your potential to contribute to the diverse and vibrant community at the college. The key is to be genuine and sincere in your reflection, showcasing how your unique qualities and experiences align with Amherst’s values of diversity and inclusion.

1. Unique Cultural or Geographic Background: Start by considering how your cultural, geographic, or familial background has given you a unique perspective. Describe specific traditions, languages, or experiences tied to your heritage that have shaped your worldview. Explain how these aspects of your identity contribute to a richer, more varied community. This is not just about being different, but about how your background can offer new insights and understandings to those around you.

2. Overcoming Challenges or Adversity: Reflect on any personal challenges or adversities you’ve faced and how they’ve shaped your character and perspective. This could include dealing with financial hardships, navigating cultural barriers, or overcoming personal obstacles. Discuss how these experiences have taught you resilience, empathy, and adaptability. These qualities are valuable in fostering a supportive and understanding community.

3. Unique Skills or Talents: Consider any special skills or talents you possess that set you apart. This could range from artistic abilities to fluency in multiple languages, or even unique problem-solving skills. Explain how these skills have allowed you to view the world differently and how they could be beneficial in a diverse academic environment. Your unique talents can contribute to a more dynamic and innovative community.

4. Engagement with Different Perspectives: Discuss your experiences in engaging with perspectives or backgrounds different from your own. This could include travel experiences, participation in multicultural events, or involvement in community service. Describe how these interactions have broadened your understanding of the world and enhanced your ability to communicate across cultural divides. Your ability to engage with and learn from diverse perspectives is crucial in a globally connected world.

5. Future Contributions to Campus Diversity: Project how you plan to contribute to the diversity and inclusivity of the Amherst community. Outline any ideas or initiatives you wish to bring or participate in that align with this goal. This could involve starting a cultural exchange program, organizing community dialogues, or leading inclusivity workshops. Show how your unique experiences will not only enrich your own education but also positively impact your peers.

In answering this prompt, it’s important to be authentic and reflective. Use specific examples and stories to illustrate your points, making your essay both personal and impactful. Your goal is to demonstrate how your unique experiences and perspectives will contribute to a more diverse and enriched learning environment at Amherst.

This specific supplemental essay prompt focuses on delving into your intellectual or creative interests and how these areas of passion offer insights into your character. It serves as a chance for you to highlight your inquisitiveness, dedication, and self-exploration through your chosen pursuits.

In simpler terms, this prompt is all about your hobbies and what they say about you. It’s like a window into your mind and heart. When you write about your passions, you’re showing the college who you are beyond just your grades or test scores. It’s like saying, “Hey, here’s what I love, and here’s what it tells you about me.”

So, if you’re into painting, for example, you can talk about how your love for colors and shapes reflects your creativity and attention to detail. Or, if you’re passionate about science, you can share how your fascination with discovery and problem-solv ing demonstrates your curiosity and determination. Essentially, you’re letting the college see a piece of your personality through the things you care about and how you engage with them.

1. Describe Your Passion: Begin by vividly describing the intellectual or creative passion you’ve pursued. This could be anything from a specific academic subject, like physics or literature, to a creative endeavor like painting, coding, or playing a musical instrument. Detail what sparked your interest in this area and how you became deeply involved in it. Your enthusiasm and dedication should shine through in your description, engaging the reader in your journey.

2. Challenges and Overcoming Them: Discuss any challenges or obstacles you encountered in your pursuit and how you overcame them. This could include a lack of resources, time constraints, or even initial failures. Emphasize the resilience and perseverance you showed in the face of these challenges. This part of your essay should demonstrate your problem-solving skills and your commitment to your passion despite difficulties.

3. Personal Growth and Learning: Reflect on what you learned about yourself through this pursuit. Did it reveal any hidden talents or interests? Did it change the way you see the world or approach problems? This self-reflection shows the depth of your engagement with your passion and its impact on your personal development.

4. Contribution to the Amherst Community: Link your passion to how you could contribute to the Amherst College community. Consider how your unique interests and experiences would add to the campus’s intellectual and creative diversity. Perhaps you plan to join specific clubs, start new initiatives, or collaborate with other students and faculty. This shows that you’re not only passionate but also eager to share your interests with others.

5. Future Aspirations: Finally, touch upon how this passion might influence your future goals. Whether it’s a career aspiration, ongoing hobby, or a foundation for further study, explain how this interest will continue to shape your path. This future orientation demonstrates that your passion is not just a pastime but a significant part of who you are and who you aim to become.

Essential Materials to Read Before Writing Your Amherst Supplemental Essays

Before you dive into writing your 2023-2024 Amherst supplemental essays, there’s some homework to do. Think of it as preparing for a big interview or meeting someone for the first time. Just like you’d want to know about the company or person you’re meeting , you should get to know Amherst College.

1. Amherst’s Website: Amherst College’s official website is your gateway to understanding the institution. Spend some quality time navigating through its pages. Explore sections like “About Us,” “Academics,” and “Student Life.” The “About Us” section often provides a brief history and mission statement. This will give you insights into the college’s origins and its core values. Knowing these values can help you align your essay with what Amherst stands for.

2. Mission and Values: Amherst’s mission statement and core values are like the college’s guiding principles. They can be found on their official website. Look for words like “mission,” “values,” or “philosophy.” Understanding these statements will help you know what Amherst College believes in. You can then use this knowledge to craft essays that resonate with their ideals. For example, if Amherst values diversity and inclusivity, you could talk about your own experiences that showcase these values.

3. Academic Programs: Take a deep dive into Amherst’s academic offerings. Look for majors, minors, and special programs that catch your eye. Are there specific courses or professors you find fascinating? Make a list of these. When writing your essays, you can mention how you’re excited about the opportunity to explore these academic paths at Amherst.

4. Extracurriculars and Clubs: Amherst College is more than just academics; it’s a community of diverse interests. Explore the clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities available. Do any of these align with your hobbies or passions? Joining clubs and participating in activities that resonate with you can enrich your college experience. Mentioning your enthusiasm for specific clubs can demonstrate your eagerness to be an active part of Amherst’s vibrant community.

5. Faculty and Research: If you have a particular academic interest or a favorite subject, check if Amherst has faculty members who specialize in that area. Look for research opportunities or projects that align with your interests. Mentioning specific professors or research initiatives in your essays can show your dedication to your field of interest and your eagerness to contribute to Amherst’s academic environment.

6. Recent News and Events: Stay up-to-date with Amherst College’s recent news, events, and initiatives. Many colleges share this information on their websites and social media platforms. Mentioning a recent achievement or event in your essays can demonstrate your genuine interest and connection to the college. For instance, if Amherst recently launched a sustainability initiative, you could discuss your passion for sustainability and how you’d like to contribute to such efforts on campus.

7. Virtual Tours and Webinars: Amherst College, like many other institutions, offers virtual tours and webinars. These are excellent opportunities to get a sense of the campus, even if you can’t visit in person. Participating in these virtual events allows you to hear directly from current students, faculty, and staff, giving you valuable insights into campus life and the Amherst community.

By conducting thorough research and taking these steps, you’ll be well-equipped to write your 2023-2024 Amherst supplemental essays with a deep understanding of the college’s culture, values, and offerings. This knowledge will enable you to craft essays that authentically convey your fit with Amherst and your enthusiasm for becoming part of its community.

Structuring Your Amherst Supplemental Essays

Structure is like the blueprint of your Amherst supplemental essays 2023-2024. It’s not just about what you say, but how you say it. A well-structured essay not only makes your thoughts clear but also keeps the admissions committee engaged. Here are three key points to help you st ructure your Amherst supplemental essays effectively:

1. Introduction with a Hook: Your introduction is the gateway to your essay, so make it intriguing. Start with a hook—a compelling opening that grabs the reader’s attention. This could be a personal anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a striking statement related to the essay prompt.

For example, if the prompt asks about a challenge you’ve faced, you might begin with a brief story that sets the stage for your essay. Remember to also include a clear thesis statement in your introduction that outlines what the essay will be about.

2. Body Paragraphs: The body of your Amherst supplemental essays is where you delve into your story, experiences, or ideas. Each paragraph should focus on a single point or idea, and they should flow logically from one to the next. Use transitions like “Furthermore,” “Moreover,” or “In addition” to connect your ideas smoothly.

In each body paragraph, provide specific examples or anecdotes to support your points. For instance, if you’re discussing your passion for a particular subject, share a specific incident or project that illustrates your enthusiasm and dedication. Remember to stay concise and on-topic in each paragraph.

3. Conclusion that Reflects and Looks Forward: Wrap up your essay with a conclusion that reflects on your main points and looks forward to the future. Don’t introduce new ideas in the conclusion; instead, summarize your key takeaways. Explain how your experiences or insights relate to your fit with Amherst College.

For example, if you’ve discussed your commitment to community service, you could conclude by stating how you envision continuing this commitment at Amherst and contributing to the college’s values. End with a strong and memorable closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

By following this structure, you’ll create well-organized and engaging Amherst supplemental essays that effectively communicate your thoughts and experiences. Remember that while structure is crucial, your unique voice and perspective shou ld shine through in your writing.

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How to Effectively Revise and Proofread Your Supplemental Essays

Revising and proofreading your 2023-2024 Amherst supplemental essays is crucial to ensure they are polished and error-free. Here are four key points to help you eff ectively revise and proofread your essays:

1. Take a Break Before Revising: After you’ve written your initial draft, it’s essential to take a break before revising. Give yourself some distance from the essay – a few hours or even a day if possible. This break allows you to come back to your work with fresh eyes and a clearer perspective.

When you revisit your essay, you’ll be more likely to spot errors, awkward sentences, or areas that need improvement. Imagine reading your essay as if you’re someone else entirely, and you’ll be more objective in your revisions.

2. Read Aloud and Listen Actively: One of the most effective ways to catch errors and improve the flow of your essay is to read it aloud. When you read aloud, you engage different senses, allowing you to notice mistakes you might have missed when reading silently. Pay attention to sentence structure, grammar, and punctuation as you read.

If a sentence sounds awkward or confusing, revise it. Listening actively to your essay will help you identify areas where your writing can be refined for better clarity and impact.

3. Seek Feedback from Others: It’s incredibly valuable to get feedback from others when revising your Amherst supplemental essays. Share your essay with teachers, peers, or family members and ask for their input.

They can provide insights into areas that may need improvement or suggest changes you hadn’t considered. Additionally, their perspective can help ensure that your essay effectively conveys your ideas and resonates with your audience – the admissions committee.

4. Proofread with Precision: Proofreading is the final step in the revision process, and it requires a keen eye for detail. Focus on grammar, punctuation, spelling, and formatting. Use proofreading tools like spell check and grammar check, but don’t solely rely on them. Sometimes, these tools miss context-specific errors.

Carefully review each sentence to ensure it makes sense and is free from typos. Pay attention to common mistakes like homophones (e.g., “their” vs. “there”), subject-verb agreement, and verb tense consistency. Consistency in formatting and style is also essential, so double-check your essay for uniformity.

5. Read Backwards: A unique but effective proofreading technique is to read your essay backward. Start with the last sentence and work your way up to the beginning. This method helps you focus on individual words and prevents your brain from filling in missing words or overlooking errors due to familiarity with the content. Reading backward forces you to pay close attention to each word and sentence, making it easier to spot mistakes.

Incorporating these strategies into your revision and proofreading process will help you refine your 2023-2024 Amherst supplemental essays to their highest quality. Remember that revising and proofreading are not one-time tasks; they may require multiple rounds of review to achieve the best results. Don’t rush this critical stage in essay writing, as it can significantly impact the impression your essays make on the admissions committee.

Why Choose Amherst College?

Studying at Amherst College, particularly in the academic year 2023-2024, positions you at the forefront of an exceptional educational experience, a pivotal element as you approach your 2023-2024 Amherst supplemental essays.

As of November 2023, Amherst is recognized for its academic superiority, consistently ranking among the elite liberal arts colleges in the United States. It holds the prestigious position of being ranked as the best liberal arts college by The WSJ/College Pulse in their 2024 Best College Rankings and the 8th best college or university overall in the United States. Furthermore, U.S. News & World Report places Amherst as the 2nd best liberal arts college, while Forbes ranks it as the 11th best college or university nationally in 2023.

Amherst’s open curriculum remains a pivotal aspect of its academic offerings. This innovative approach empowers you to explore a wide range of subjects without the constraints of a core curriculum, fostering a sense of independence and self-direction in your learning journey. Whether you’re deeply invested in a specific field or still exploring diverse disciplines, Amherst’s approach encourages you to design an educational path that aligns closely with your passions and goals.

The college’s dedication to small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio ensures personalized attention and mentorship. At Amherst, your educational experience is intimate and collaborative, fostering close interactions with faculty who are invested in your success. This environment is conducive to deep intellectual engagement and personal growth.

Diversity and inclusivity are central to Amherst’s ethos. Ranking 9th among the most diverse colleges in America according to Niche, Amherst’s diverse student body enriches the learning environment with a multitude of perspectives. This inclusivity prepares you to engage with a multifaceted and ever-changing world, learning not only from coursework but also from the rich tapestry of student experiences.

Moreover, Amherst’s location in the scenic Pioneer Valley and its vibrant campus life add to its appeal. Being part of the Five College Consortium, the college offers access to an expansive array of academic and extracurricular resources, enhancing your overall college experience.

Overall, choosing Amherst College for your higher education in 2023-2024 means embracing an environment of intellectual freedom, personalized learning, and exposure to a diverse and inclusive community. As you reflect on these strengths in your supplemental essays, consider how Amherst is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about becoming part of a community that values curiosity, inclusivity, and personal growth in a highly esteemed academic setting.

male college student with a backpack and headphones ready for school

Amherst’s Deadlines and Key Metrics

As you navigate through your 2023-2024 Amherst supplemental essays, it’s crucial to understand the latest statistics and figures related to Amherst College, particularly its acceptance rate, application deadlines, and other pertinent data. Knowing these details not only informs your application process but also gives you insights into what to expect from the college.

For the academic year 2023-2024, Amherst College’s acceptance rate is quite selective, standing at 13%. This figure reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process, highlighting the college’s reputation for academic excellence. In the recent academic year, the college received a total of 14,864 applications, from which only 1,079 students were offered admission, further emphasizing its selectivity.

This level of competitiveness underlines the importance of presenting a strong and compelling application in the 2023-2024 application cycle, including your Amherst supplemental essays.

In terms of application deadlines, for first-year admission, the Early Decision application deadline is November 1, 2023, while the Regular Decision deadline is January 3, 2024. If you’re considering transfer admission, the deadline for spring semester enrollment is also November 1, 2023, and for fall semester transfer enrollment, it is March 1, 2024.

These deadlines are critical to remember as they are your timeframes for submitting not just your application and supporting documents, but also your carefully crafted supplemental essays.

Regarding graduation and retention rates, Amherst College boasts impressive figures. The 4-Year Graduation Rate stands at 90%, and the 6-Year Graduation Rate is 95%, indicating that the vast majority of students complete their degrees within these timeframes.

The freshman retention rate, a key indicator of student satisfaction and college performance, is 91%. This rate, which applies to first-time, full-time students who return for their second year, is above the national average, signifying a positive and supportive learning environment at Amherst.

Understanding these statistics is vital as you prepare your 2023-2024 Amherst supplemental essays. They not only provide a glimpse into the selective nature of Amherst College but also highlight the institution’s commitment to student success and academic excellence. As a prospective student, these figures can help you gauge your fit and readiness for the challenges and opportunities that Amherst offers.

The Importance of Supplemental Essays in the College Admissions Process

Supplemental essays, such as the 2023-2024 Amherst supplemental essays, play a pivotal role in the college admissions process. Supplemental essays provide you with a unique opportunity to go beyond your grades and test scores. They allow you to showcase your personality, passions, and fit with the school. Admissions committees want to get to know you as an individual, and these essays are your canvas to paint a more vivid picture of who you are.

By crafting well-written supplemental essays, you can convey your genuine enthusiasm for the school and demonstrate how you align with its values, culture, and academic offerings. This personal touch can set you apart from other applicants and make you a compelling candidate.

Every student has a unique story to tell, and supplemental essays provide the space to share yours. Whether it’s a life-changing experience, a personal challenge you’ve overcome, or a passion that drives you, these essays allow you to delve deeper into your journey.

By effectively conveying your experiences and the lessons you’ve learned, you can create a memorable narrative that resonates with the admissions committee. A well-crafted story can make you a more relatable and memorable applicant, increasing your chances of standing out in a competitive pool.

Colleges appreciate applicants who have taken the time to get to know their institution. Writing compelling supplemental essays that mention specific professors, programs, or opportunities at the school shows that you’ve done your homework.

It indicates a genuine interest in the college and a strong desire to be part of its community. This level of commitment can be viewed positively by admissions committees, as it suggests that you are likely to be an engaged and motivated student on campus.

Student writing college or university application.

In some cases, supplemental essays can also be a platform to address any weaknesses or gaps in your application. If you had a challenging semester, an academic setback, or an unusual circumstance that affected your grades or test scores, you can use these essays to provide context and explain how you’ve grown or persevered. This demonstrates resilience and maturity, which can mitigate concerns the admissions committee may have had based solely on your academic records.

Overall, the 2023-2024 Amherst supplemental essays are not just additional hoops to jump through; they are your opportunity to shine and present yourself in the best possible light. By carefully crafting these essays to reflect your personality, experiences, and genuine interest in the school, you can greatly enhance your chances of securing admission to Amherst College or any other dream school. So, approach them with enthusiasm, sincerity, and a determination to make your application memorable.

Final Thoughts

As you wrap up your journey through the 2023-2024 Amherst supplemental essays, remember this: these essays are your voice in the admission process. They’re your chance to tell Amherst who you are and why you belong there.

So , don’t rush. Take your time to reflect, write, revise, and edit. Seek help when needed, but let your unique story and aspirations shine through. Show them your passion, your curiosity, and your fit with Amherst’s values.

Amherst College is waiting to hear your story, and we believe in your ability to tell it well. As you submit your essays, trust in the journey you’ve taken to get here. You’ve got this! Now, go conquer those essays and make your dreams of joining the Amherst College community a reality.

It is important to have all the necessary information before making any decision. AdmissionSight is always here to help you with any questions or concerns. We have over ten years of experience helping students successfully navigate the challenging admissions process.

Consult with AdmissionSight and find out how we can help you get into the school of your choice by ensuring that you are fully informed and prepared for the application process. We will work with you to develop a personalized plan that meets your specific needs and goals. We will also provide you with access to our team of experts who can help you with everything from choosing the right schools to writing your essays .

Don’t let the admissions process overwhelm you. Contact AdmissionSight today and let us help you achieve your dreams.

Want to assess your chances of admission? Take our FREE chances calculator today!

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Amherst Supplemental Essays 2023-24

Amherst college supplemental essays 2023-24.

Wondering how to get into Amherst? The key is the Amherst essays. Your Amherst supplemental essays are a critical part of making your application stand out from other competitive applicants.

Amherst is a highly competitive liberal arts college located in western Massachusetts. The college is located in Amherst, a small city about a two-hour drive from Boston . Though Amherst is not part of the Ivy League , that doesn’t mean it isn’t as prestigious or competitive. The school is consistently ranked among the best liberal arts colleges in the U.S. (currently #2 on the list). As such, the admissions team is always looking for strong writing and critical thinking in Amherst essays.

In this guide, we’ll break down how to be successful when writing your Amherst essay. Primarily, we’ll be reviewing all of your Amherst essay options and how to pick which essay prompts to respond to. Our guide is also full of writing tips to help make your application stand out. Keep reading for everything you need to know to ace your Amherst application.

Amherst Supplemental Essays: Quick Facts

Amherst college supplemental essays: quick facts.

Amherst College Acceptance Rate: 9% – U.S. News ranks Amherst College as a most selective school.
1 (~ 350 word) essay response to a prompt OR
a graded analytical paper from junior or senior year OR
a previously submitted Access to Amherst essay (for students who attended A2A only)
Amherst College Application: Students must submit their application to Amherst through the Common Application , the Coalition Application , or the Questbridge application. Make sure to have all your Amherst supplemental essays and other required application materials ready when applying.
Early Decision: November 1 st
Regular Decision: January 3 rd
Amherst College Supplemental Essays Tip: Choose the Amherst essay option that best suits your overall application narrative and be sure to answer the prompt thoroughly.

Please note that essay requirements are subject to change each admissions cycle, and portions of this article may have been written before the final publication of the most recent guidelines. For the most up-to-date information on essay requirements, check the university’s admissions website.

Does Amherst require supplemental essays?

Yes—a completed Amherst application includes one required Amherst supplemental essay. However, students can pick between three options to satisfy the Amherst essay requirements . Below, we will go more in-depth on each of the Amherst essays options and the benefits of each one.

In addition to the required Amherst supplemental essays, there are a few optional Amherst essays you may choose to complete. We will share more about those later. Even though they are optional, you’ll see why we recommend completing these Amherst essays.

Keep in mind that Amherst is a very selective school. You’ll want to provide as much meaningful and relevant information as possible throughout your application. Furthermore, Amherst admissions officers are looking to build a thoughtful and diverse student body. Therefore, you’ll want to carefully consider your Amherst essays, as this is where Admissions will learn the most about you.

To be sure you’ll have a strong application, start your Amherst supplemental essays early. Work backward from your application deadline to ensure you have several weeks, if not a few months, for your essays. You’ll need plenty of time to brainstorm, write, get feedback, and edit your Amherst essays ahead of finalizing your application.

How many essays does Amherst require?

In total, there are two required Amherst essays. The first is the personal statement , which is a 650-word essay that introduces you to the admissions team. However, this personal statement is not specific to Amherst. Instead, you can submit the same personal statement to all of the schools you are applying to. As a longer essay, you’ll have ample space to explore who you are and what matters to you.

The second required Amherst essay is your Amherst supplemental essay. Amherst offers three options for meeting their supplemental essay requirement. If you choose Option A, you are required to submit a 350-word essay responding to one of three prompts. Option B is to submit a previously graded analytical paper. Option C is only available to applicants who have attended Amherst’s Access to Amherst (A2A) program. Students must write an essay to apply for the program, which takes place during the fall of their Senior year. As such, students who end up applying to Amherst can use their A2A essay as their required Amherst supplemental essay.

Choosing which of the Amherst supplemental essays options to respond to depends on your personal strengths and interests. In future sections, we’ll go further into the details of each of the Amherst supplemental essays options. Then, you’ll have all the information you need to make the decision that works best for you.

Amherst Writing Supplement – Option A

The first option applicants can use to fulfill the Amherst supplemental essays requirements offers a choice of prompts. Your response should be no longer than 350 words. Each prompt starts with a quote, followed by a related question. Whichever prompt you choose, you should carefully read the quote and then respond with a personal essay. In your response, you should use examples from your life experience to relate to the ideas in the quote.

Below are the three Amherst supplemental essay prompts for Option A:

Amherst College is committed to learning through close colloquy and to expanding the realm of knowledge through scholarly research and artistic creation at the highest level. Its graduates link learning with leadership—in service to the College, to their communities, and to the world beyond. – the Mission of Amherst College

Prompt 1 Question

What do you see as the benefits of linking learning with leadership and/or service in your response, please share with us a time where you have seen that benefit through your own experience..

We seek an Amherst made stronger because it includes those whose experiences can enhance our understanding of our nation and our world. We do so in the faith that our humanity is an identity forged from diversity, and that our different perspectives enrich our inquiry, deepen our knowledge, strengthen our community, and prepare students to engage with an ever-changing world. – the Trustee Statement on Diversity and Community

Prompt 2 Question

In what ways could your unique experiences enhance our understanding of our nation and our world.

Strong commitment to the freedom of inquiry lies at the heart of Amherst College’s mission to create a home in which the liberal arts may flourish. As a small residential liberal arts college that prides itself on the ability, curiosity, and diversity of its students, Amherst seeks to create a respectful environment in which members of its community feel emboldened to pursue their intellectual and creative passions. – the Amherst College Statement of Academic and Expressive Freedom

Prompt 3 Question

Tell us about an intellectual or creative passion you have pursued; what did you learn about yourself through that pursuit.

Each of these Amherst supplemental essay prompts represents a specific type of essay question:

Prompt 1 is a leadership/service question
Prompt 2 is a diversity question
Prompt 3 is an intellectual pursuit question

So, how do you choose between the Amherst essay prompts? Your choice will ultimately depend on the picture you are trying to paint for admissions officers in your application. In the next section, we’ll discuss how to select the Amherst essay prompt that works best for you.

How to choose the right prompt for you

There are multiple prompts available for Option A. So, you may be curious if responding to a specific prompt may increase your odds of admission. The answer is no; no single prompt leads to greater admissions.

The first step to choosing the right Amherst essay prompt is to review each prompt fully. Start by annotating to identify keywords. That way, you can ensure you understand the quote and what the prompt question is asking. For example, for prompt 1, you might want to highlight “benefits of linking”, “learning”, “leadership”, and “your own experience”. If your response doesn’t touch on all these elements, it’s not going to sufficiently answer the prompt.

Focus on your application narrative

Once you understand the prompts behind your Amherst supplemental essays, refocus on your overall application narrative. What is the personal branding you hope to convey in your Amherst College supplemental essays? What did you write about already in your personal statement or other optional Amherst supplemental essays? Is there anything you haven’t yet been able to express in your application? For example, perhaps your personal statement speaks to the diversity you would bring to Amherst. But, you haven’t yet been able to share your experience starting a club that volunteers with animals. Essay prompt #1, which is about linking leadership and service, might be the best fit for you, rather than #2, which focuses on diversity.

While there is no one right Amherst essay prompt, there are prompts that you will relate to more strongly. Trust your instincts and respond to the question that allows you to tell your story most clearly. If your choice isn’t clear, try brainstorming ideas for all three options. Once you have a few solid ideas for your Amherst essays, pick the one you’re most excited to explore further.

Now that you’ve chosen which Amherst essay prompt best suits your story, it’s time to start writing. Next, we will provide tips for how to write your Amherst College supplemental essays.

How to write an Amherst supplemental essay

Writing your Amherst essays may feel daunting at first. Here, we’ll provide some tips for approaching your Amherst essays:

Freewrite first

Once you’ve chosen a prompt, avoid pressuring yourself into choosing the right words to say immediately. Set a timer for 10 minutes and simply write whatever comes to mind. From there, you can mine your writing for ideas and examples that you want to highlight in your Amherst essays.

Tell a story

Include specific and personal details that show, rather than tell, what you experienced. The directions for responding to Option A specifically note that this Amherst essay is not an argumentative essay. As such, Amherst Admissions is more interested in your personal experiences than in arguing the meaning of a quote. The quote is simply an inspiration to show you that the questions of the prompts are directly related to Amherst’s values.

Make meaning from your story

An important piece of your Amherst supplemental essays is your ability to reflect upon your experiences. As a liberal arts college, Amherst is seeking students who show critical thinking skills. Make sure there is space in your Amherst essay for identifying the “moral” or main takeaway of your story.

Demonstrate passion for Amherst

While none of these prompts are explicitly a “ Why College ” question, they are Amherst-specific. As such, make sure your response demonstrates an understanding of Amherst’s values and approach to learning .

Proofread well

Lastly, always submit Amherst essays that are grammatically correct and easy to read. Strong writing is one sign that a student is prepared to take on an Amherst education.

The above tips are useful when responding to one of the Amherst essay prompts from Option A. However, if you’re interested in submitting a previous writing sample for your Amherst requirements, take a look at Option B.

Amherst Supplemental Essays – Option B

Option B asks you to submit a graded paper as part of your Amherst application. This option provides the benefit of saving you time, as you won’t have to write a new essay.

However, there are distinct disadvantages to taking this option. For one, Option B removes space for you to express something personal with admissions officers in your Amherst essays. This option only makes sense if you feel you have an essay that truly expresses important ideas and aspects of your personal brand.

For example, perhaps you have a passion for reading Shakespeare. And , you feel you’ve already shared a significant amount about yourself in your personal statement or optional supplemental questions. In that case, you may wish to submit an English paper that demonstrates your deep analysis of and love for Shakespeare.

Or, maybe you don’t have stand-out grades because you’re not a great test taker. In that case, you may want to submit a graded paper that showcases your strengths as a student. If you do choose to submit a graded essay, make sure you’ve captured your personal experiences and perspective elsewhere!

Take note, Amherst only accepts specific essays. Here is a summary of the guidelines they provide for the submitted essay:

Must be written in Junior or Senior year
Must be an analytical paper that uses literary, sociological, or historical evidence
Cannot be a lab report, journal entry, creative essay, or an essay written in class
Must be previously graded by a teacher, showing the teacher’s comments and grades. As such, do not submit a clean version of the paper.

You can read additional frequently asked questions about Option B here . If you are unsure whether a paper could work as one of your Amherst essays, contact the Amherst admissions office.

Amherst Essays – Option C

The final option for your Amherst supplemental essays is only available to students who attended Access to Amherst (A2A). Access to Amherst is a program designed to increase access for students from underrepresented backgrounds, including:

Students of color
Students from rural areas
Students with limited financial means

The program provides high school seniors with free travel to campus. Once there, they’ll have the opportunity to stay with a student host and learn all about Amherst. To apply to the program, students must write an essay about their unique experiences . About 75% of students who attend A2A decide to apply to Amherst. These students have the option to use the same essay they supplied to Amherst for A2A in their college application.

While reusing the same essay is a great option, students should be sure to reread their A2A essay. That way, they can be sure it still represents the brand they wish to promote in their application. Students who choose to use their A2A essay can simply indicate this on the Common App. Once Amherst receives their application, the school will internally transfer the essay.

Aside from the required Amherst supplemental essay, there are a few optional Amherst supplemental essays students can submit. We’ll describe these Amherst College supplemental essays in greater detail in the next section.

Amherst Supplemental Essays – Optional Essays

In addition to the two required essays – your personal statement and one Amherst supplemental essays response – there are a few optional Amherst College supplemental essays. While these Amherst College supplemental essays are labeled optional, we recommend completing them. Remember, Amherst is a selective college. So, you should provide as much relevant information as possible to demonstrate why you are a standout candidate. In short, students wondering how to get into Amherst should start by filling out every part of the application.

There are two optional Amherst supplemental essays:

Optional Amherst College Supplemental Essays

1. if you would like to share more about yourself that is not captured elsewhere in your application, please tell us more here. (maximum: 175 words), 2. if you have engaged in significant research in the natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, social sciences or humanities that was undertaken independently of your high school curriculum, please provide a brief description of the research project. (maximum: 75 words), optional amherst supplemental essay #1.

This question is referred to as the “Additional identity question.” To start, consider whether there is a part of your identity you haven’t yet expressed in your application. Then, explain how that experience shaped you.

Identity is a broad term and can relate to many aspects of your experience. Perhaps you were a child of a military family who moved around a lot. You might want to talk about how switching schools impacted your academic and social experiences. Or, maybe you attended schools that did not offer advanced coursework. Whatever you highlight in your Amherst supplemental essays, make sure it’s not repetitive. Only use this prompt to share something meaningful that you haven’t talked about elsewhere in your application.

Optional Amherst Supplemental Essay #2

In the “Optional research questions” section, students can describe a project that was particularly meaningful for them. This can be especially valuable for students interested in doing research while at Amherst. It can also help reinforce your passion for the primary academic interest you noted in your application.

Optional Arts Supplement

Lastly, students with dance, theater, music, or visual arts passions may wish to submit an Arts supplement . Outside of your Amherst essays, an Arts supplement offers another way to convey your application narrative. If you have a unique talent to display, make sure to take advantage of this aspect of your application.

Is Amherst college prestigious?

Students writing their Amherst supplemental essays might wonder if Amherst is a prestigious college. The answer is yes! Sometimes, smaller liberal arts colleges may not have the same name recognition as schools like those in the Ivy League. However, Amherst is undoubtedly a very prestigious school. Amherst is consistently given high rankings by reliable sources such as U.S. News and Forbes .

However, more important than rankings is school fit. Are you seeking an intimate learning environment? A college town with a small-town feel? A broad education that prepares you for a variety of careers? If the answer is yes to all three, then Amherst might be the best school for you.

Before judging the school by its name recognition, do your research. Talk to students who attended to ask about their experience or what they wrote about in their Amherst essays. Visiting the school will also give you inspiration and ideas for what to highlight in your Amherst College supplemental essays. If you aren’t able to visit in person, don’t worry! You can do plenty of research online before jumping into your Amherst essays.

Does Amherst care about essays?

Yes, admissions officers care deeply about your Amherst essays! Amherst uses a holistic admissions review process. As such, this means that no one factor, like your grades or test scores , solely determines your admissions.

Your Amherst supplemental essays are an important way to show how you think and what you value. These are characteristics that may not be evident in other parts of your application. As a competitive liberal arts college, Amherst cares deeply about these characteristics.

Lastly, the Amherst essays are the only part of the application over which you have full control. You can’t go back in time to change a grade or invest more time in an extracurricular. However, you can write Amherst supplemental essays that are clear, compelling, and unique. Be sure to show them the full picture of who you are through your Amherst supplemental essays!

Getting into Amherst College is no easy feat. In fact, each year more students are applying to the school – and only 9% of applicants are admitted. Without a doubt, admitted students all wrote Amherst supplemental essays that demonstrated what made them a great fit for the school.

Amherst Supplemental Essays: Final Takeaways

With this guide, we honed in on the Amherst College supplemental essays. We looked at the three Amherst essays you can choose from to complete your Amherst requirements. Then, we broke down why you might choose one option over another. (And how to write a great essay in response to the prompts in Option A). Finally, we highlighted optional Amherst supplemental essays that can provide space for you to expand upon your experiences.

Here are some final takeaways to consider when writing your Amherst essays:

Be yourself.

First, be yourself. Identify your application narrative and make sure all of your Amherst essays contribute to this narrative. Admissions officers can see through forced narratives or Amherst supplemental essays that don’t sound like you.

Take your time

Secondly, spend ample time on your Amherst supplemental essays. Have trusted readers identify ways you can strengthen your narrative or refine your Amherst essays. Seek out the help you need to guide you through writing your Amherst supplemental essays.

Start early

Last but not least, start the process early. Give yourself plenty of time to write your Amherst College supplemental essays and complete all of the Amherst requirements. The more prepared you are, the greater the odds your application will be strong. Be sure to pay close attention to application deadlines so you can plan accordingly.

At CollegeAdvisor, our goal is to ensure students have the support they need to succeed in the college process. We offer a number of additional free resources for students, including this guide on how to get into Amherst. For additional support in writing your Amherst supplemental essays, schedule a consultation with a CollegeAdvisor admissions expert.

This essay guide was written by senior advisor, Courtney Ng . Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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How to Write the UMass Amherst Essays 2023-2024

The University of Massachusetts Amherst has three required short response prompts for all applicants. The first asks you to elaborate on why you wish to attend UMass Amherst, the second asks about a community you’re a part of and its influence on you, and the third asks about why you chose the major you selected on the application.

Since UMass Amherst receives thousands of applications from academically strong students, your essays are your best chance to stand out. In this post, we’ll discuss how to craft an engaging response to each of these three prompts.

UMass Amherst Supplemental Essay Prompts

Prompt 1: Please tell us why you want to attend UMass Amherst? (100 words)

Prompt 2: At UMass Amherst, no two students are alike. Our communities and groups often define us and shape our individual worlds. Community can refer to various aspects, including shared geography, religion, race/ethnicity, income, ideology, and more. Please choose one of your communities or groups and describe its significance. Explain how, as a product of this community or group, you would enrich our campus. (100 words)

Prompt 3: Please tell us why you chose the Major(s) you did? (100 words)

Please tell us why you want to attend UMass Amherst? (100 words)

This supplement is a very standard example of the common “Why this College?” prompt , a classic way for admissions officers to learn more about your interest in their school. Just as you’re worried about colleges selecting you, admissions staff are concerned about whether you will choose their school if you’re admitted. This response provides another opportunity to distinguish yourself from other candidates and explicitly express your interest in UMass Amherst.

However, you’re only given 100 words to answer this prompt. Therefore, you should narrow your thinking down to 1-3 genuine reasons you want to attend UMass Amherst. This response should be very specific—many students make the mistake of simply listing generic positive qualities that could apply to any school.

Including general information like the strength of an academic department or a prime location can convey a lack of interest and actually detract from your application. A great starting point to research the school for this response is the school’s website , which contains copious information about its values, unique offerings, and campus culture.

Also, avoid listing school rankings or hackneyed adjectives praising the school, as this can come across as disingenuous. Admissions officers already know their school’s strengths and statistics—they want to learn more about you specifically, and how you plan to take advantage of UMass Amherst’s offerings.

Because one of the other supplemental prompts focuses on why you chose your major, you should avoid any overlap in this essay—that is to say, try not to write about your desired major here. However, because of the 100-word limit, you should focus mainly on academic or extracurricular offerings such as specific classes, research opportunities, and clubs. Think about what you hope to gain from the college experience at UMass Amherst as you select topics to write about.

Here are two examples of answers to this prompt:

Weak response: “I chose to apply to UMass Amherst not only because of its stellar academics, but also because of the extracurricular opportunities I will have to learn and grow both professionally and personally. I plan to join the Pre-Law Society to develop the soft and hard skills I need to apply to law school. I also plan to join a dance club as I am passionate about expressing myself through art. Recently, I have become interested in standup comedy, so I plan to pursue that as well. In addition, I look forward to living in and exploring the rural Amherst environment.”

Strong response: “As a future environmental rights lawyer, I am deeply passionate about gaining the tools to aid worldwide sustainability efforts. I look forward to contributing to research projects like Professor Lena Fletcher’s Outsmart app. Preventing invasive species’ destructive tendencies through early detection is important to me—my grandparents’ orchard was destroyed by emerald ash borers, so I understand the gravity of this research firsthand. Through courses like Rethinking US Environmental Policy, I can delve into the political origins of land and water distribution. Moreover, UMass Amherst’s Gardenshare Practicum will allow me to gain hands-on experience in community sustainability.”

The first response starts off with a very general sentence that could apply to any institution of higher education. The use of generic adjectives praising the school (like “stellar”) should be avoided. Because the word count is so limited, you should avoid vague language as much as possible. Don’t waste words giving trite compliments to the University!

The second response jumps into the applicant’s passions and future goals. It then directly connects a UMass-specific opportunity to the potential fulfillment of this goal. This is a much stronger approach that will grab your reader’s attention and make your response more memorable.

The first response also reads a bit like a laundry list of extracurriculars. Rather than focusing on quantity , you should try to enhance the quality of your response by adding depth through detail. The second applicant not only mentions a UMass-specific offering, but also explains their personal connection to it. Also, their note about the Gardenshare Practicum explains how they will fit into campus culture in their free time.

These inclusions add a layer of authenticity that will make a response more credible to admissions officers. Adding these types of details takes some quick research and can do a lot to add to the relatability of your essay.

At UMass Amherst, no two students are alike. Our communities and groups often define us and shape our individual worlds. Community can refer to various aspects, including shared geography, religion, race/ethnicity, income, ideology, and more. Please choose one of your communities or groups and describe its significance. Explain how, as a product of this community or group, you would enrich our campus. (100 words)

Because college is one big community just like any other, UMass Amherst wants to know about other communities you’re a member of and how you will fit into their own campus community. This prompt is very straightforward, but it also gives you a lot of freedom to talk about any community that is meaningful to you and what you do as a part of it. The goal of this essay is to demonstrate that you are an active community member and can fit right in at UMass Amherst.

It’s crucial that you pick a community that is central to your life and one that you play a significant role in. Including the examples given in the prompt, here are a few examples of communities you could consider:

Religious community
Racial or ethnic community
Sports teams
Clubs and extracurricular organizations
Volunteer organizations
Political movements
Apartment building or street block
Online communities or groups
Community of people who share a similar hobby or interest

As you can see, there are many different ways to approach this essay. You might even write about a language community, or a community of people with a similar disability. Once you know what community you want to write about, you need to discuss your role within the community. For tips on choosing a community and writing thoughtfully about it, check out our guide to writing the diversity essay .

A quick note: Earlier this year, the United States Supreme Court struck down the use of affirmative action in college admissions. The ruling, however, still allows colleges to consider race on an individual basis, which is one reason many schools are now including diversity prompts as one of their supplemental essay prompts. If you feel that your racial background has impacted you significantly, this is the place to discuss that.

When choosing a community, don’t make the mistake of thinking you can only talk about one where you were a leader or contributed to some big project—even as a member of the community you could still play a large role. When you’re thinking about the role you played, ask yourself these four questions:

What actions do I generally take?
Why do I enjoy being in this community?
How do I impact others in my community?
What do I learn from being a part of this community?

If you can answer these questions, you can definitely write an essay that is personal and informative. Including self-reflection, especially for the third and fourth question, will demonstrate your critical thinking and maturity to the admissions committee.

It might help you to describe a formative experience that involved your membership in your chosen community. This experience should ideally be one in which you learned a new lesson, gained a new skill, or personally grew in some way. You are limited to 100 words total , including the last part of the prompt, which concerns your future involvement in the UMass Amherst community, so be sure to get right to the point.

These questions might help you distill the entire experience into the most important points:

What happened?
What was going through your mind and how did you feel as it happened?
How have your emotions about the event changed over time?
Have you faced any challenges as a result of membership in this community or your background?

Finally, the last part of this prompt asks how your membership in this community will help you enrich the UMass Amherst community. To discuss this, go beyond generic college tropes like late-night conversations with your roommate, as those are things you can find at any school. Instead, find some element of UMass Amherst that you’re specifically intrigued by.

Maybe your Filipino community at home is extremely important to you, so you’re looking forward to joining the Filipino Student Association on campus to stay connected to that community. Or, perhaps you’re planning to start a fashion entrepreneurship club on campus to create a community that currently doesn’t exist.

Even though you only have 100 words to work with, your response can still give your reader new information. Don’t write about something you’ve already discussed elsewhere in your application, limiting yourself by passing up one of the opportunities you do have to share something new with admissions officers.

By the end of your essay, the admissions committee should know exactly what you value in a community and should be able to imagine you in specific communities at UMass Amherst. Ending the essay with your specific ideas for your community involvement at the school will leave the admissions officers with a positive impression of you as an involved student.

Please tell us why you chose the Major(s) you did? (100 words)

A “Why this Major?” prompt is a way for colleges to learn more about you and distinguish you from other candidates with similar academic backgrounds and interests. Admissions officers want to learn more about your current experience with a subject you’re interested in, where your passion comes from, and how you plan to continue pursuing this passion beyond your college career. The committee can also get a better idea of your interest in UMass Amherst specifically, and an idea of how you plan to use its resources to better facilitate your learning.

When brainstorming content for this prompt, think about what initially drew you to the subject. Avoid using general statements like “I want to be a civil engineer because I have always enjoyed working with my hands.” Dig deeper into your passion and give specific details—one applicant might talk about how a Lego set they received for Christmas during their childhood first sparked their love of building. Another might talk about how they always admired the architectural genius behind their favorite structure in their hometown.

You should also tie your response to future goals you hope to accomplish with this major. A common mistake many students make here is being too general. Rather than using platitudes like “making the world a better place” and “helping others,” talk about specific things you could do to achieve these goals. Though you by no means need to have your career plans figured out, you can explore potential options to add depth to your response.

For example, a prospective chemistry major might discuss wanting to invent a non-teratogenic pesticide. Someone applying as a math major might want to develop an online teaching program for students who struggle with the topic and implement it at underprivileged schools.

Another factor to consider is how you plan to pursue this major at UMass Amherst, so that admissions officers will have a better idea of how you will fit into the campus culture. If you’ve already mentioned major-specific resources in the first essay, however, there’s no need to repeat yourself. You can instead focus on your interest in the major and your future goals. While you may have already discussed your academic goals in the first essay, consider this an opportunity to expand upon those goals in more detail.

No matter how you approach this essay, you should research specific classes, research opportunities , programs , student organizations , and other opportunities for involvement that tie into your major. For example, a prospective psychology major might discuss how UMass’s specific psychology programs tie into their dedication to activism. A response could go something like this:

“Participating in the Black Lives Matter movement has underscored my desire to explore the neural circuitry behind racism. As a psychology major, I plan to pursue this topic within UMass Amherst’s Psychology of Peace and Violence Program , by working with Professor Ervin Staub on developing active bystander training for police. I believe this biological approach to activism will go a long way in fomenting sustainable change at the systemic level.”

Keep in mind that this is not a full response, but it does demonstrate the tone and level of detail you should aim for when writing a response to this prompt. Adding details like this will lend authenticity to your response and make it more fun to read. Admissions officers want to know why this major is important to you, so let your creativity and passion flow—the possibilities are endless!

Where to Get Your UMass Amherst Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your UMass Amherst essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

Command Education Guide

How to write the amherst college essays, updated for 2023-2024.

Prompt 1: “Amherst College is committed to learning through close colloquy and to expanding the realm of knowledge through scholarly research and artistic creation at the highest level. Its graduates link learning with leadership—in service to the College, to their communities, and to the world beyond.” – from the Mission of Amherst College

What do you see as the benefits of linking learning with leadership and/or service? In your response, please share with us a time where you have seen that benefit through your own experience.

Explanation:

In responding to Amherst College’s supplemental essay prompt, which asks you to reflect on the benefits of linking learning with leadership and/or service, it is essential to convey a deep understanding of the institution’s mission and demonstrate your alignment with its core values. The prompt also calls for you to share a specific example from your own life to illustrate this connection.

First, consider how your experiences and values align with Amherst College’s commitment to learning, leadership, and service. How have you used your knowledge and skills in service of your community? Why is Amherst’s commitment to service and community a driving factor in your own interest in the institution? You might express your enthusiasm for an educational environment that values the holistic development of its students, emphasizing the synthesis of academic pursuits, leadership, and community service.

Then, you should share a specific experience from your life that illustrates the benefits of linking learning with leadership and service. This should be a time when you actively partook in a service project or leadership role that allowed you to apply your academic knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact. For instance, you might recount a time when you took a leadership position in a community service project that was closely related to your academic major or interests. Describe how your academic insights enhanced your ability to lead the project effectively, and how the project, in turn, benefited the community. Be sure to highlight what you learned from this experience, both academically and personally, and include specific and demonstrable results (these may be qualitative through community response or quantitative through funds raised or volunteers mobilized).

Finally, link this experience not only to your personal growth but also to the way that you intend to continue positively impacting your broader community in the future. Doing so will demonstrate your leadership skills as well as the type of community member you will be on Amherst’s campus.

Prompt 2: “We seek an Amherst made stronger because it includes those whose experiences can enhance our understanding of our nation and our world. We do so in the faith that our humanity is an identity forged from diversity, and that our different perspectives enrich our inquiry, deepen our knowledge, strengthen our community, and prepare students to engage with an ever-changing world.” – from the Trustee Statement on Diversity and Community

In what ways could your unique experiences enhance our understanding of our nation and our world?

To answer this prompt effectively, you should first consider your background, personal experiences, and perspectives. Consider the various aspects of your life, experiences, and identity that make you unique. Think about your cultural background, family history, personal values, and formative experiences; then, make a list of the key factors that have shaped your identity. In your response, clearly articulate how your unique experiences align with and reinforce Amherst College’s commitment to diversity and the belief that diverse perspectives enrich the academic environment.

Rather than offering vague or general statements about diversity, provide one specific example from your life experiences that demonstrates your potential to enhance the understanding of your nation and the world. For instance:

Share an anecdote about an event, relationship, or encounter that was profoundly influenced by your unique perspective or background.
Discuss a cultural tradition or practice that is significant to you and has broadened your understanding of cultural diversity.
Reflect on a time when your unique experiences provided a different perspective on a complex issue or challenge.

Finally, demonstrate that you understand the reciprocal nature of this exchange. Just as you can enrich the understanding of others, acknowledge how your experience at Amherst can further develop your own understanding of different perspectives. This mutual exchange of knowledge and growth is at the heart of Amherst’s values.

Submit a graded paper from your junior or senior year that best represents your writing skills and analytical abilities. We are particularly interested in your ability to construct a tightly reasoned, persuasive argument that calls upon literary, sociological or historical evidence. You should not submit a laboratory report, journal entry, creative writing sample or in-class essay. Also, if you have submitted an analytical essay in response to the “essay topic of your choice” prompt in the Common Application or Apply Coalition with Scoir writing section, you should not select Option B.

If you are/were an applicant to Amherst’s Access to Amherst (A2A) program, you may use your A2A application essay in satisfaction of our Writing Supplement requirement. If you would like to do so, please select Option C. However, if you would prefer not to use your A2A essay for this purpose and you want to submit a different writing supplement, select either Option A or Option B. Option A, Prompt 2 is the same prompt as the A2A application essay; if you would like to submit an updated version of your A2A application essay, please choose Option A.

Please note that Option C is available only to applicants to Amherst’s A2A program. Non-A2A applicants must choose either Option A or Option B.

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Supplemental Essay Guide 2024-25

What do the 2024-25 supplemental essay prompts really mean, and how should you approach them? CEA's experts are here to break them all down.

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Agnes Scott College 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, amherst supplemental essays.

Hey everyone, I'm starting to work on my college applications, and I was wondering if Amherst College has any supplemental essays? If so, can someone share the prompts so I can start brainstorming? Thanks!

Hi there! Yes, Amherst College does require supplemental essays as part of their application process. You can check out the prompts for the 2023-2024 application cycle, as well as breakdowns of how to respond to each one, on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-amherst-college-essays.

Remember that CollegeVine also offers both a free peer essay review service and paid reviews by expert college admissions advisors - sometimes, getting a second set of eyes on your essay is just the thing that takes it from good to great.

Overall, the best advice is to give yourself sufficient time to brainstorm, write, and revise your essay to ensure that it effectively portrays your thoughts and ideas. Best of luck with your application to Amherst!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

Navigating the Amherst College 2023-2024 Supplemental Essays

As you begin your academic pursuits and take the first step to advance your learning, it is crucial to consider the distinct features and prerequisites of every establishment you apply to. This also applies to Amherst College , which is well known for its dedication to intellectual inquiry and scholastic achievement. This esteemed liberal arts institution, which is located in the charming town of Amherst, Massachusetts , emphasises the development of various viewpoints and the creation of an exciting learning environment.

In this blog, we’ll discuss Amherst College’s specific supplemental essay requirements for 2023-2024. These essays are a priceless way for you to showcase your unique personality, your enthusiasm for studying, and how you can be a part of the active Amherst community. Every essay prompt is intentionally crafted to evoke meaningful, authentic responses that will aid the admissions committee in understanding you as a candidate.

Understanding Amherst College

Renowned for its liberal arts curriculum and dedication to academic success, Amherst College is located in the heart of Amherst, Massachusetts. Understanding the college’s basic principles is essential to writing strong supplemental essays for the 2023–2024 application cycle:

Liberal Arts Primary Focus

Amherst places a strong emphasis on a well-rounded education that fosters interdisciplinary inquiry and critical thinking.

Academic Prominence

The college, which offers small courses and individualised attention, is routinely ranked among the best liberal arts colleges.

Inclusion and Diversity

Amherst looks for students who share its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community.

Open Curriculum

Students can choose their academic pathways thanks to the flexible curriculum, which encourages intellectual curiosity.

Community Engagement

Amherst promotes civic involvement and social responsibility.

Consortium of Five Colleges

Amherst’s participation in this partnership provides access to more academic programmes from nearby universities .

Also Read: 10 Offbeat Courses To Graduate Within 2023

The Significance of Supplemental Essays

In addition to the primary personal statement or Common Application essay, several schools and institutions now request supplemental essays as part of the application process. These writings accomplish several important goals:

Distinguishing Applications

Institutions can discover more about candidates through supplemental essays than just their grades and test results. They provide candidates with a stage to highlight their special traits, passions, and experiences. This aids universities in separating applicants with comparable academic backgrounds.

Adherence to the School

Through these essays, candidates may show that they are enthusiastic about and knowledgeable about the particular university. Students who are a good fit for their academic, cultural, and social surroundings are of interest to admissions committees. You can present a compelling case for your fit by discussing the reasons for your interest in that specific university.

Showcase Individuality

Additional writings can provide valuable insight into the character, principles, and interests of a candidate. This gives the application more substance and enables admissions examiners to view the applicant as a complete rather than simply a collection of accomplishments.

Emphasising Special Experiences

Numerous candidates have distinctive backgrounds, difficulties, or achievements that don’t fit within the template. They can tell these memories and give context for their application through supplemental essays.

Evaluating Communication and Writing Proficiencies

These essays evaluate a candidate’s capacity for persuasive, logical, and clear writing. Colleges use these essays to assess a student’s potential in writing since strong writing abilities are critical for success in this setting.

Example of Amherst College Supplemental Essays

Amherst College demands a supplemental essay from all candidates in addition to the primary Common Application essay . There are three ways to fulfill Amherst’s supplemental writing requirement for first-year applicants: Choose from Option A, Option B, or Option C.

Only one of the options is available to applicants. Before making a choice, candidates should carefully study the descriptions of all three alternatives to determine which is best for them.

Option A requires candidates to reply to one of the following quotations in a 300-word essay. It is not required to conduct research, read, or refer to the literature from which these quotations are; Amherst is looking for unique, personal answers to these brief passages.

“Rigorous reasoning is crucial in mathematics, and insight plays an important secondary role these days. In the natural sciences, I would say that the order of these two virtues is reversed. Rigor is, of course, very important. But the most important value is insight—insight into the workings of the world. It may be because there is another guarantor of correctness in the sciences, namely, the empirical evidence from observation and experiments.” Kannan Jagannathan, Professor of Physics, Amherst College”
“Translation is the art of bridging cultures. It’s about interpreting the essence of a text, transporting its rhythms and becoming intimate with its meaning… Translation, however, doesn’t only occur across languages: mentally putting any idea into words is an act of translation; so is composing a symphony, doing business in the global market, and understanding the roots of terrorism. No citizen, especially today, can exist in isolation– that is, I untranslated.” Ilán Stavans, Professor of Latin American and Latino Culture, Amherst College, Robert Croll ’16 and Cedric Duquene ’15, from “Interpreting Terras Irradient”
“Creating an environment that allows students to build lasting friendships, including those that cut across seemingly entrenched societal and political boundaries… requires candor about the inevitable tensions, as well as about the wonderful opportunities, that diversity and inclusiveness create.” Carolyn “Biddy” Martin, President of Amherst College, Letter to Amherst College Alumni and Families, December 28, 2015.”

Option B asks candidates to prepare a 300-word essay in response to the following prompt: “At Amherst, we believe diversity makes us stronger.” What is your definition of diversity? (No more than 500 words).”

Option C is only open to applicants who have applied to or have previously applied to Amherst’s Access to Amherst (A2A) programme. By selecting Option C, they can use their A2A application essay to satisfy Amherst’s Writing Supplement requirement. If they do not wish to utilise their A2A essay for this purpose and instead want to submit an alternative writing supplement, students should choose either Option A or Option B.

In addition to the mandatory additional essay, Amherst provides an optional essay topic for students who want to share information about themselves that is not included in their application. Applicants can also opt to write about an activity they like, a place that brings them serenity, or parts of their personality or history that they have not yet covered in their application. Whatever the prompt, it’s critical to focus on what makes the candidate special and how that has prepared them to teach their peers and leave their imprint on Amherst’s campus.

Also Read: Do’s and Don’ts for Writing The Common Application Essay

Tips for Crafting Strong Supplemental Essays

Writing captivating, supplemental essays is crucial for demonstrating your fit for Amherst College. Here are some tips to help you write standout essays:

● Understand the Prompt

To understand what the admissions committee is searching for, read each essay prompt carefully. Make sure that your answer properly addresses the question.

● Showcase Authenticity

Be authentic and loyal to yourself. Share personal experiences, points of view, and ideas that represent your distinct identity and beliefs.

● Connect with the Values of Amherst

Emphasise how your experiences and goals match with Amherst’s basic principles, such as a dedication to liberal arts education, diversity, and intellectual curiosity.

● Tell Your Story

Make a story out of your replies. Make your essays more memorable by engaging readers with a great tale that emphasises your topic.

● Be Precise

Respect the word or character restriction. Make every word count by emphasising quality over quantity.

● Edit and Proofread

Check your work for grammar, spelling, and clarity. Seek input from professors, mentors, or peers to ensure your work is polished.

● Avoid Using Clichés

Avoid using overused words or themes. Find a unique standpoint or perspective to make your essay stand out.

● Show, Don’t Tell

Use real examples and detailed descriptions to demonstrate your views rather than simply listing attributes or experiences.

● Answer the question, “Why Amherst?”

Be explicit if a prompt asks why you want to attend Amherst. Mention academic programmes, instructors, or extracurricular activities that align with your objectives.

● Highlight Contributions

Discuss your unique abilities, experiences, or traits that would benefit Amherst if a prompt asks what you can give to the community.

Also Read: Beyond Borders: Pursuing Medicine In Ireland

How can Rostrum Education help you write effective Supplemental Essays?

Rostrum Education can assist you in crafting effective supplemental essays by offering personalised guidance and expertise. Their experienced team provides one-on-one consultations, helping you understand the prompts, brainstorm ideas, and refine your essays to align with the specific requirements of institutions like Amherst College. They offer valuable insights, ensure your essays are authentic and compelling, and provide critical feedback to make your application stand out to admissions committees. With Rostrum Education’s support, you can maximise your chances of securing admission to your dream college.

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Elektrostal

Elektrostal Localisation : Country Russia , Oblast Moscow Oblast . Available Information : Geographical coordinates , Population, Altitude, Area, Weather and Hotel . Nearby cities and villages : Noginsk , Pavlovsky Posad and Staraya Kupavna .

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Elektrostal Demography

Information on the people and the population of Elektrostal.

Elektrostal Population	157,409 inhabitants
Elektrostal Population Density	3,179.3 /km² (8,234.4 /sq mi)

Elektrostal Geography

Geographic Information regarding City of Elektrostal .

Elektrostal Geographical coordinates	Latitude: , Longitude: 55° 48′ 0″ North, 38° 27′ 0″ East
Elektrostal Area	4,951 hectares 49.51 km² (19.12 sq mi)
Elektrostal Altitude	164 m (538 ft)
Elektrostal Climate	Humid continental climate (Köppen climate classification: Dfb)

Elektrostal Distance

Distance (in kilometers) between Elektrostal and the biggest cities of Russia.

Elektrostal Map

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Elektrostal Nearby cities and villages

Elektrostal Weather

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Elektrostal Sunrise and sunset

Find below the times of sunrise and sunset calculated 7 days to Elektrostal.

Day	Sunrise and sunset	Twilight	Nautical twilight	Astronomical twilight
8 June	02:43 - 11:25 - 20:07	01:43 - 21:07	01:00 - 01:00	01:00 - 01:00
9 June	02:42 - 11:25 - 20:08	01:42 - 21:08	01:00 - 01:00	01:00 - 01:00
10 June	02:42 - 11:25 - 20:09	01:41 - 21:09	01:00 - 01:00	01:00 - 01:00
11 June	02:41 - 11:25 - 20:10	01:41 - 21:10	01:00 - 01:00	01:00 - 01:00
12 June	02:41 - 11:26 - 20:11	01:40 - 21:11	01:00 - 01:00	01:00 - 01:00
13 June	02:40 - 11:26 - 20:11	01:40 - 21:12	01:00 - 01:00	01:00 - 01:00
14 June	02:40 - 11:26 - 20:12	01:39 - 21:13	01:00 - 01:00	01:00 - 01:00

Elektrostal Hotel

Our team has selected for you a list of hotel in Elektrostal classified by value for money. Book your hotel room at the best price.

	Located next to Noginskoye Highway in Electrostal, Apelsin Hotel offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi. Free parking is available. The elegant rooms are air conditioned and feature a flat-screen satellite TV and fridge...	from
	Located in the green area Yamskiye Woods, 5 km from Elektrostal city centre, this hotel features a sauna and a restaurant. It offers rooms with a kitchen...	from
	Ekotel Bogorodsk Hotel is located in a picturesque park near Chernogolovsky Pond. It features an indoor swimming pool and a wellness centre. Free Wi-Fi and private parking are provided...	from
	Surrounded by 420,000 m² of parkland and overlooking Kovershi Lake, this hotel outside Moscow offers spa and fitness facilities, and a private beach area with volleyball court and loungers...	from
	Surrounded by green parklands, this hotel in the Moscow region features 2 restaurants, a bowling alley with bar, and several spa and fitness facilities. Moscow Ring Road is 17 km away...	from

Elektrostal Nearby

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The Unique Burial of a Child of Early Scythian Time at the Cemetery of Saryg-Bulun (Tuva)

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Pages: 379-406

In 1988, the Tuvan Archaeological Expedition (led by M. E.вЂЇKilunovskaya and V. A.вЂЇSemenov) discovered a unique burial of the early Iron Age at Saryg-Bulun in Central Tuva. There are two burial mounds of the Aldy-Bel culture dated by 7th century BC. Within the barrows, which adjoined one another, forming a figure-of-eight, there were discovered 7 burials, from which a representative collection of artifacts was recovered. Burial 5 was the most unique, it was found in a coffin made of a larch trunk, with a tightly closed lid. Due to the preservative properties of larch and lack of air access, the coffin contained a well-preserved mummy of a child with an accompanying set of grave goods. The interred individual retained the skin on his face and had a leather headdress painted with red pigment and a coat, sewn from jerboa fur. The coat was belted with a leather belt with bronze ornaments and buckles. Besides that, a leather quiver with arrows with the shafts decorated with painted ornaments, fully preserved battle pick and a bow were buried in the coffin. Unexpectedly, the full-genomic analysis, showed that the individual was female. This fact opens a new aspect in the study of the social history of the Scythian society and perhaps brings us back to the myth of the Amazons, discussed by Herodotus. Of course, this discovery is unique in its preservation for the Scythian culture of Tuva and requires careful study and conservation.

Keywords: Tuva, Early Iron Age, early Scythian period, Aldy-Bel culture, barrow, burial in the coffin, mummy, full genome sequencing, aDNA

Information about authors: Marina Kilunovskaya (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Vladimir Semenov (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Varvara Busova (Moscow, Russian Federation). (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Kharis Mustafin (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Technical Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology. Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Irina Alborova (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Biological Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology. Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Alina Matzvai (Moscow, Russian Federation). Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology. Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected]

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IELTS Exam Preparation: Free IELTS Tips, 2024

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Moscow, Russia

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Zheleznodorozhnyy
Orekhovo-Zuyevo
Sergiyev Posad
Podol'sk
Novo-Peredelkino
Ryazan'

An Overview of the IELTS

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is designed to measure English proficiency for educational, vocational and immigration purposes. The IELTS measures an individual's ability to communicate in English across four areas of language: listening , reading , writing and speaking . The IELTS is administered jointly by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge English Language Assessment at over 1,100 test centres and 140 countries. These test centres supervise the local administration of the test and recruit, train and monitor IELTS examiners.

IELTS tests are available on 48 fixed dates each year, usually Saturdays and sometimes Thursdays, and may be offered up to four times a month at any test centre, including Elektrostal' depending on local needs. Go to IELTS test locations to find a test centre in or nearby Elektrostal' and to check for upcoming test dates at your test centre.

Test results are available online 13 days after your test date. You can either receive your Test Report Form by post or collect it from the Test Centre. You will normally only receive one copy of the Test Report Form, though you may ask for a second copy if you are applying to the UK or Canada for immigration purposes - be sure to specify this when you register for IELTS. You may ask for up to 5 copies of your Test Report Form to be sent directly to other organisations, such as universities.

There are no restrictions on re-sitting the IELTS. However, you would need to allow sufficient time to complete the registration procedures again and find a suitable test date.

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How to Write the Amherst College Supplemental Essays: Examples + Guide
Amherst Supplemental Essays
Stand Out with UMass Amherst Supplemental Essay Examples
Amherst Supplemental Essays
Amherst Supplemental Essays Guide: 2021-2022
How to Write the UMass Amherst Essays 2023-2024

VIDEO

IELTS reading in 2024: MUST-KNOW Tips + Paper Discussions

COMMENTS

Information about the Writing Supplement
Below you'll find the prompts for the writing supplement in the 2023-24 application cycle (Fall 2024 entry term). In addition to the main essays you must write as part of the Common Application, Apply Coalition with Scoir, or QuestBridge Application, Amherst requires a supplementary essay of all applicants.
How to Write the Amherst College Essays 2023-2024
How to Write the Amherst College Essays 2023-2024. Amherst College is a private liberal arts school located in the picturesque college town of Amherst, Massachusetts. A small school with a student body of just under 2,000 undergraduates, Amherst is very selective. Amherst boasts an open curriculum, meaning that students have only one required ...
How to Write the Amherst College Supplemental Essays: Examples + Guide
How to Write Amherst Supplemental Essay Option A. Respond to one of the following quotations in an essay of not more than 300 words. It is not necessary to research, read, or refer to the texts from which these quotations are taken; we are looking for original, personal responses to these short excerpts.
How to Respond to the 2023/2024 Amherst College Supplemental Essay
Amherst College is a selective and top-ranked liberal arts college with an acceptance rate of 9%.They offer unique benefits that combine liberal arts education and the resources of a university, due to being a part of the Five College Consortium.Since it is a highly competitive school, applicants will need to make their Amherst supplemental essays stand out from the others.
How to Write the Amherst Supplement 2023-2024
How to Write the Amherst Supplement 2023-2024. Amherst is the platonic ideal of a New England liberal arts school. With a small student body and a 1,000-acre campus with views of mountains and forest in Amherst, Massachusetts, the school has a picturesque serenity and college-town charm. It welcomes the free spirit (its "open curriculum ...
UMass Amherst 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide
University of Massachusetts Amherst 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanations. *Please note: the information below relates to last year's essay prompts. As soon as the 2024-25 prompts beomce available, we will be updating this guide -- stay tuned! The Requirements: 3 essays of 100 words each. Supplemental Essay Type (s): Why, Community.
2023-24 Amherst College Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide
As soon as the 2024-25 prompts beomce available, we will be updating this guide -- stay tuned! The Requirements: One essay of 300 words, a series of optional short answers. Supplemental Essay Type (s): Activity, Diversity, Essay of choice. Optional additional identity information: The questions below provide a space for you to share additional ...
Amherst Supplemental Essays 2023-2024
This level of competitiveness underlines the importance of presenting a strong and compelling application in the 2023-2024 application cycle, including your Amherst supplemental essays. In terms of application deadlines, for first-year admission, the Early Decision application deadline is November 1, 2023, while the Regular Decision deadline is ...
Amherst Supplemental Essays
Amherst College Supplemental Essays 2023-24. Wondering how to get into Amherst? The key is the Amherst essays. Your Amherst supplemental essays are a critical part of making your application stand out from other competitive applicants.. Amherst is a highly competitive liberal arts college located in western Massachusetts. The college is located in Amherst, a small city about a two-hour drive ...
How to Write the UMass Amherst Essays 2023-2024
Because one of the other supplemental prompts focuses on why you chose your major, you should avoid any overlap in this essay—that is to say, try not to write about your desired major here. However, because of the 100-word limit, you should focus mainly on academic or extracurricular offerings such as specific classes, research opportunities ...
How to Write the Amherst College Essays
For the 2023-2024 application cycle, Amherst requires all applicants to submit one supplementary essay. There are three options for satisfying Amherst's supplementary writing requirement: Option A, Option B or Option C. ... In responding to Amherst College's supplemental essay prompt, which asks you to reflect on the benefits of linking ...
Supplemental Essay Guide 2024-25
What do the 2024-25 supplemental essay prompts really mean, and how should you approach them? CEA's experts are here to break them all down. State ... University of Massachusetts Amherst 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide.
Amherst Supplemental Essays?
Hey everyone, I'm starting to work on my college applications, and I was wondering if Amherst College has any supplemental essays? If so, can someone share the prompts so I can start brainstorming? Thanks! ... You can check out the prompts for the 2023-2024 application cycle, as well as breakdowns of how to respond to each one, ...
Navigating the Amherst College 2023-2024 Supplemental Essays
In this blog, we'll discuss Amherst College's specific supplemental essay requirements for 2023-2024. These essays are a priceless way for you to showcase your unique personality, your enthusiasm for studying, and how you can be a part of the active Amherst community.
Amherst Option Supplemental : r/ApplyingToCollege
Check through the supps you have already written. There are a lot of different prompts, so you might have already written something that fits the bill. On the other hand, if you do have a really amazing essay you have written for school, go for it. It's all about how you think best represents yourself. 3.
Does Umass require a supplemental essay? : r/umass
UMass Amherst is a public university with 24K undergrads, 7.8K graduate students, and #1 for Princeton Review Best Campus Food! ... Though there is no supplemental essay besides the Common App, there are two additional short answers that I believe are about 100-150 words each. Hope this helps. Good luck! ... To the 2024 grads, what did you ...
Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia
Elektrostal Geography. Geographic Information regarding City of Elektrostal. Elektrostal Geographical coordinates. Latitude: 55.8, Longitude: 38.45. 55° 48′ 0″ North, 38° 27′ 0″ East. Elektrostal Area. 4,951 hectares. 49.51 km² (19.12 sq mi) Elektrostal Altitude.
635th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment
635th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment. 635-й зенитно-ракетный полк. Military Unit: 86646. Activated 1953 in Stepanshchino, Moscow Oblast - initially as the 1945th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Regiment for Special Use and from 1955 as the 635th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment for Special Use. 1953 to 1984 equipped with 60 S-25 (SA-1 ...
The Unique Burial of a Child of Early Scythian Time at the Cemetery of
Burial 5 was the most unique, it was found in a coffin made of a larch trunk, with a tightly closed lid. Due to the preservative properties of larch and lack of air access, the coffin contained a well-preserved mummy of a child with an accompanying set of grave goods. The interred individual retained the skin on his face and had a leather ...
IELTS test centers and test dates 2024 in Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast
IELTS; Locations; russia; elektrostal' Take IELTS test in or nearby Elektrostal' There is no IELTS test center listed for Elektrostal' but you may be able to take your test in an alternative test center nearby. Please choose an appropriate test center that is closer to you or is most suitable for your test depending upon location or availability of test.

Admission & Financial Aid Information about the Writing Supplement

Option A

Option B

How to Write the Amherst College Supplemental Essays: Examples + Guide 2023/2024

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Additional Personal Information

Research Essay (Optional)

Activities (Required)

🤔🤔 Wondering which essay prompts your schools require?

How to Write Each Supplemental Essay Prompt for Amherst College

Tips + Analysis

How to Write the Amherst Additional Personal Information Essay

How to Write the Amherst Extracurricular Activities Essay

How To Write the Research Essay (Optional)

Want advice on dozens of other supplemental essays? Click here

Student-centric advice and objective recommendations

How to Respond to the 2023/2024 Amherst College Supplemental Essay Prompts

Before answering Option A in the Amherst supplemental essay questions

Quote option #1

Quote option #2

Quote option #3

Option C – for A2A program students only

Before submitting your Amherst supplemental essays

Next steps after applying to Amherst

Additional resources

Other colleges to consider

Scholarships360 Recommended

10 Tips for Successful College Applications

Coalition vs. Common App: What is the difference?

College Application Deadlines 2023-2024: What You Need to Know

How to Convert Your GPA to a 4.0 Scale

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How to Write the Amherst Supplement 2023-2024

Narrowing Down the Writing Prompts

What do you see as the benefits of linking learning with leadership and/or service? In your response, please share with us a time where you have seen that benefit through your own experience.

In what ways could your unique experiences enhance our understanding of our nation and our world?

Tell us about an intellectual or creative passion you have pursued; what did you learn about yourself through that pursuit?

Cupertino, CA

Middle School

College Admissions

Graduate Admissions

Private Tutoring

Research Programs

Acceptance Rates

National Universities

Public Schools

Liberal Arts

Amherst Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

By Eric Eng

How Many Writing Supplement Options Does Amherst College Offer?

Amherst’s Writing Supplement Option A

Amherst’s Writing Supplement Option B

Amherst’s Writing Supplement Option C

Amherst College’s Access to Amherst (A2A) Program

What are the 2023-2024 Amherst Supplemental Essay Prompts?

How to Write the 2023-2024 Amherst Supplemental Essays

Crafting Your Response

Essential Materials to Read Before Writing Your Amherst Supplemental Essays

Structuring Your Amherst Supplemental Essays

How to Effectively Revise and Proofread Your Supplemental Essays

Why Choose Amherst College?

Amherst’s Deadlines and Key Metrics

The Importance of Supplemental Essays in the College Admissions Process

Final Thoughts

Why College Admissions Isn’t Perfect

US News Rankings

The Personal Statement: The Holy Grail of College Admissions

The Modern Day 4.0 and 1600 SAT Score Student Is No Longer Impressive

The Competitive Nature of College Admissions for Asian Americans

The College Application

Our Comprehensive Approach

Ivy League Schools

How Early Should You Prepare for College?

Featured in US News & World Report Best Colleges Publication

Congratulations to AdmissionSight Students and their Acceptances!

College Rejection

College Rankings

College Consultants Could Make A Difference

College Admissions Scandal and Higher Education