personal essays that got into northwestern

6 Northwestern Essay Examples & Why Northwestern (2024)

Writing your Northwestern supplemental essays can be tricky, but they're important because your responses can have a big effect on your application chances.

Along with your personal statement essays , Northwestern offers students the chance to respond to a "Why Northwestern" essay prompt as part of its writing supplement.

In this article, I've gathered 6 essays that worked that helped get students admitted into Northwestern recently.

What is Northwestern University's Acceptance Rate?

Getting into Northwestern is quite difficult. Last year, a record 51,554 students applied to Northwestern.

And Northwestern had an overall admit rate of only 7%. Or in other words, about 1 in 13 students get accepted.

Northwestern University Acceptance Scattergram

To get into Northwestern, you've got to stand out from the crowd, which you can do by writing a strong writing supplement section.

What are the Northwestern Supplemental Prompts for 2022-23?

The Northwestern writing supplement for this year only asks one essay question of 300 words: Why Northwestern?

''Why Northwestern'' Statement :

While other parts of your application give us a sense of who you are, we are also excited to hear more about how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community.

In 300 words or less, help us understand how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here. We are curious about what these specifics are, as well as how they may enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond.

6 Northwestern University EssaysThatWorked

Here are 6 of the best Northwestern essays that worked, including example essays for the "Why Northwestern" statement prompt.

I've also included some great Common App essays from admitted Northwestern students.

Get inspired and start writing your "Why" statement with the help of these examples.

• Northwestern University Essay Example #1
• Northwestern University Essay Example #2
• Northwestern University Essay Example #3
• Northwestern University Essay Example #4
• Northwestern University Essay Example #5
• Northwestern University Essay Example #6

"Why Northwestern?" Essay Example #1

Prompt: "Why Northwestern" Statement:

In 300 words or less, help us understand how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here. We are curious about what these specifics are, as well as how they may enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond. (300 words max)

I love Northwestern’s academic flexibility, including the freedom of the curriculum to explore a variety of fields and the emphasis on cross-department study. Also, the quarter system provides a faster pace of learning and the opportunity to take more classes than a semester school.

Specifically, I am excited by the Spanish and Portuguese department and the classes on Hispanic and Lusophone culture, literature, and phonetics. For example, the accelerated Portuguese program is a perfect way to pick up the language at a faster pace using my prior knowledge of Spanish. I intend to supplement my language acquisition through the study abroad programs offered at the Fundação Getúlio Vargas in Rio de Janeiro or an affiliate program in Santiago, Chile. Additionally, the GESI program in Costa Rica is another intriguing opportunity through its intersectionality. It will allow me to combine a practical application of my language skills with studies in environmental conservation that I find a pressing and interesting issue. As an open-minded learner keen to forge links between academic fields of study, I believe I would be an excellent fit for the program.

I am also interested in Linguistics and pursuing undergraduate research or possibly undertaking the coterminal BA/MA program. The opportunity to link my research to a modern language of choice and investigate, for example, regional variation in Latin American Spanish or how Portuguese loanwords have infiltrated native Amazonian languages sounds fascinating and exciting.

Finally, the unique sense of community at Northwestern captivated me when I visited campus. The residential college system, the school spirit at Wildcat games, and the friendliness of the students I met, one of whom described the school as “the most welcoming place ever”, were all emblematic of this atmosphere for me. I think I will thrive in such a dynamic and inquisitive place.

"Why Northwestern?" Essay Example #2

The only reason I fear going for lunch in a hotel is probably because I wouldn’t choose between fried chicken and roasted meat and so is my dilemma over my college major. The multifaceted whole brain approach at McCormick, however, grants me the perfect opportunity to pursue my interest in Computer Science whilst acquiring the appropriate skills in entrepreneurship to a one day startup as an innovator.

As a NU computer scientist, I particularly look forward to Software Development EECS 473 – NUvention: Web, through which I would not only learn intricacies of Software development, but have related studies in real time software development in relation to market requirements in CS+X that would form a base for a startup. That would also provide a bridge for me to join Prof Todd Warren at Farley Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation where I would specifically join the NUvention; Web + Media. Through this unparalleled program I would have the intimacy of working in a team with fellow wild cats towards an innovative business project. The results of which will be an introduction to the Northwestern Innovation and New Ventures Office (INVO) through which I look forward to gaining practical exposure in launching businesses to the general public.

Outside McCormick, I would be excited to pursue the Managerial analytics Certificate program at Kellogg to acquire intelligent business management skills, let off steam at SPARK exploring hacks while fostering entrepreneurial habits, and eventually joining preparations for the Benedictine Eagle Invite at the Henry Crown Sport’s Pavilion (SPAC) with the NU track club. I may not the best of singers, but I do have intense phases of music obsessions and where best to let it off than taking non major classes at Bienen and, joining one of the numerous Acapella groups as I await Armadillo day!

"Why Northwestern?" Essay Example #3

Why Northwestern? Because this introduction was so difficult to write; because I cannot possibly summarize these reasons in one introductory sentence. Simply put, my interests span across a wide range, and Northwestern has a place for them all.

As an enthusiastic programmer and advocate for positive minority representation in the media, I hope to combine both these interests and conduct research on the influence of media on society. To my delight as a prospective communications major, the School of Communication's research labs showcase project topics ranging from the depiction of STEM in media to improving digital communication. I look forward to taking advantage of the high-quality research, internship and even career opportunities offered to explore my ideas.

My multiple passions keep me creative and energetic, and I plan to continue pursuing them at Northwestern. With years of editing and writing experience for school publications under my belt, for instance, I hope to join the staff of Helicon and North by Northwestern . Last but not least is the constant school spirit and sense of inclusion present within campus. During my campus tour, each tour guide seemed genuinely excited to introduce prospective students to the school. As my particular tour guide described the quarter system and tradition of guarding and painting the rock with passion in her eyes, I knew that only at Northwestern could I find students as enthusiastic about the school itself as they are about their majors. I also spotted many students of color while visiting; as an Asian woman, Northwestern's focus on diversifying reassures me that not only will I not be judged for my background, but that I will get to meet students of all ethnicities and cultures.

College is a time of self-discovery, and I firmly believe I can see my dreams become reality at Northwestern.

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"Why Northwestern?" Essay Example #4

I felt the cold sheets beneath me and the beeping sounds of a monitor next to my bed, my chest moving up and down and my body sinking into the mattress. I opened my eyes and was greeted with a plastic surgeon holding the cyst that was once in the corner of my eye. Medicine, I decided, was my destiny.

Flash forward to 8th grade, the year I decided to read 100 books. Emerson, John Green, Ernest Cline--you name the author, I read them. I became instantly inspired to learn to write like the wonderful authors I had read. So, writing, I decided (maybe), was my destiny.

Wait--or was it medicine? Well, perhaps it can be both.

The thing I find most striking about Northwestern is its emphasis on the word “AND.” Northwestern students can love computer science AND music theory, poetry AND Latin History, journalism AND business--I can love science AND English. At Northwestern, my interests would not be hindered by strict and unwavering guidelines. Rather, they could be effortlessly streamlined and integrated into one another. I could go from ​PSYCH 361--Brain Damage and the Mind to ENG 206 - Reading and Writing Poetry to Carol Clayberger’s Lab to continue my extensive research on T-lymphocytes, similar to that I conducted at UPMC. I would be learning each level of the human psyche, communicating my thoughts through writing, and putting them into action through my research.

At Northwestern, I plan to take advantage of the various resources that would enable me to pursue my passions, find new ones, and combine them into one, pulling from both sides of my brain. I know that I am right for Northwestern and Northwestern is right for me because we have a mutual understanding of what education should look like--emphasis on “AND,” not “OR.”

"Why Northwestern?" Essay Example #5

Think Purple: Aspiring journalist dreams of being a Wildcat F​iled under ​A​dmissions​, ​Top Stories

After brochure browsing, website wandering, and campus canvassing what felt like hundreds of different schools, it took Daisy Conant exactly 32 seconds on the Northwestern University campus to realize she had found the one.

“Northwestern is undefinable in the best way, an addicting hub of intellectuality, creativity, and school spirit - something especially appealing to a football lover,” laughed Conant. “But what excites me most about NU is the opportunity to study at the Medill School of Journalism.”

A writer with hopes of becoming a foreign correspondent, Conant has always been drawn to people and their stories, especially those completely unfamiliar to herself and her experiences. Once learning she could start on day one at Medill acquiring investigative journalism experience writing an enterprise story and end on day 600 with a journalism residency and international experience already under her belt, she was hooked.

“Conducting groundbreaking research on the socioeconomic disparities in the CPS system for the Medill Justice Project, spending a semester abroad reporting on cultural crisis in Greece, interning at the Post - at Medill, my options are boundless,” remarked Conant. “I could explore the world of print news writing in-focuses for the Daily Northwestern, dabble in magazine editing laying out spreads for North by Northwestern, even try my hand at broadcast reporting for WNUR.”

A journalist at heart, Conant is fascinated with the intersections of other disciplines. As an NU student she would be free to engage her passions for international studies and business through outside concentrations in addition to investigative journalism, uncovering the adventures (and discovering the tenacious Wildcats) that lie between Evanston and the shores of Lake Michigan. “My story is just beginning,” said Conant. “And Northwestern is the perfect lede.”

Northwestern Essay Example #6

Prompt: Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (100-250 words)

I held my breath as my trembling fingers, made for the enter key, my eyes glued to the screen savoring every moment. In a split of a second, the results of my sleepless nights were imprinted on the screen.

>>>syntax error

I felt my eyes became watery but I quickly forged a smile convincing myself I wasn’t about to cry.

However disappointed I felt that moment, it wasn’t something new to me. I am not a natural programmer and I have failed more than a million times when running my codes. In fact, I have gotten used to failing, that anytime I get it right on the first attempt I assume I got lucky and I redo the code. Every time I get a syntax error I have eventually learned something new from the code. It’s at these moments that I have learnt more about my world.

Through coding, I have learnt to appreciate shortcomings in life as room for improvements. I have come to understand being raised in a camp in Chalbi dessert is a chance for me to have the first-hand experience of what needs to be done to make the world a better place. I stopped being disappointed I was born in a less tech-savvy country and seen it as an opportunity for me to create an impact with the much I have learnt. I understand with every syntax error, every life obstacle, I learn and take a step closer to a perfect code, achieving my dreams.

What Can You Learn From These Northwestern Essays?

These 6 Northwestern essays that worked show you exactly what it takes to write successful "Why Northwestern?" essays. Answering the "Why Northwestern" statement as best you can is the key to having a successful Northwestern application.

What did you think of these Northwestern essays?

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3 Tips to Write a Perfect "Why Northwestern" Essay

College Info , College Essays

Northwestern University is an excellent choice for college, but can you easily explain just why you want to go there? If you're planning to apply to Northwestern, you'll need to submit the Northwestern supplemental essays —supplemental statements that describe why you've chosen to apply to this school and what you think Northwestern can offer you in terms of your future goals.

In this article, we'll go over what these supplemental essays entail as well as why you're required or encouraged to submit them. We'll also cover various topics and tips you can use to craft a compelling Northwestern supplement essay.

Feature Image: Herb Nestler /Flickr

No More Northwestern "Why This College" Essay

In the past, Northwestern asked students to write an optional "why this college" essay , which asked students to explain why Northwestern was a perfect fit for them. As of 2023, Northwestern no longer requires a "why this college" essay as part of the application process. 

Instead, the Northwestern application now has new essay prompts  that students have the option to answer. 

While Northwestern no longer has a "why this college" essay , many other schools require it.  Other schools that require or offer this type of essay include NYU , Tulane , and Brown .

If you're considering applying to a school with a "why this essay" prompt, reviewing 

Do You Need to Submit the "Why Northwestern" Essay?

According to the Northwestern application, although you are not required to submit the "Why Northwestern" essay, Northwestern strongly recommends that you do so anyway.

On both the Common Application and Coalition Application (depending on which system you use), you'll be shown this message on the Northwestern application:

Do you plan to complete the ''Why Northwestern'' Statement? (We strongly encourage a response, as your answer will help us connect the dots across your application to imagine what kind of college student you might become.)

You'll then select either "Yes" or "No" from a drop-down menu. If you select "Yes," you'll get a blank space in which to type/paste your essay. While you technically have a choice about whether to submit the "Why Northwestern" essay, we strongly recommend that you complete it.

Here's what the Northwestern application requirements page says in regard to the essays that applicants must submit with their applications:

"Applicants to Northwestern complete two sets of essays: essays appearing on the Common Application or Coalition Application, and the Northwestern Writing Supplement essay [i.e., the 'Why Northwestern' essay]."*

*Bold emphasis mine

Interestingly, there's no mention here of the "Why Northwestern" essay being optional at all—you're simply expected to write it. It's safe to say, then, that this "extra" essay actually plays a hugely important role in the application process, and that the majority of Northwestern applicants write two essays for their applications: the Common App/Coalition App essay and the (supposedly optional) "Why Northwestern" essay.

Additionally, it's worth noting that Northwestern highly values the concept of "fit" within their community . In this sense, it's not much of a surprise that Northwestern wants applicants to spend some time thinking about what kind of relationship they want to develop with the school.

Overall, you should treat the Northwestern supplement essay as a required part of your application.

The Northwestern Essay Prompt Analyzed

You should definitely submit the Northwestern supplement essay—but what is the prompt asking you to do, specifically? Also, how should you answer it so that you can give yourself a solid chance of getting accepted to the school?

In order to answer these two questions, let's take a look at the Northwestern essay prompt:

While other parts of your application give us a sense of who you are, we are also excited to hear more about how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community. In 300 words or less, help us understand how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here. We are curious about what these specifics are, as well as how they may enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond.

Your "Why Northwestern" essay can be a max of 300 words, making it rather short. (Most college essays are around 500-550 words.) This means that you'll need to be clear and concise in order to get your point across and ultimately be able to craft an effective response.

This Northwestern essay prompt isn't that different from other "why this college" essay prompts in that it really just wants you to answer one big question: how will Northwestern help you further your interests and achieve your goals?

Northwestern already has a general idea of how you can contribute to the school; now, it wants to know how it can help you .

The "Why Northwestern" essay is more of a "why us" essay than it is a "why you" essay because it's asking you to elaborate on why you're applying to Northwestern specifically, and how an education there will help you fulfill your academic, professional, and/or personal aspirations.

Here are some topics you could write about in your Northwestern supplement essay:

• Your experience visiting the campus and talking to current students or professors and why this experience helped you envision yourself feeling at home at Northwestern
• Specific professors you want to work with or classes you want to take and how they'll help you achieve your goals
• Specific activities, clubs, or events Northwestern offers that you wish to participate in and why these are important to you and your aspirations
• Any other specific resources the school offers, such as internship opportunities, career fairs or connections, lectures and talks, study abroad programs, etc., that you believe will benefit your intellectual and professional growth

If you're not sure what to write about for your Northwestern supplement essay, spend some time doing research. Start by perusing the official Northwestern website , paying particular attention to pages about any programs, courses, and/or majors you're interested in.

You can also browse other student-geared websites to see what people have to say about Northwestern, including what makes it unique.

Real Northwestern Essay Examples + Analysis

Below are two real Northwestern essay examples for you to use as references when writing the "Why Northwestern" essay. The essays were both written by admitted applicants and should give you a good idea of what kinds of topics and styles you can use in your own essay.

Before we look at the two essays, though, be aware that both are answering an older, slightly different version of the "Why Northwestern" prompt, which was as follows:

What are the unique qualities of Northwestern—and of the specific undergraduate school to which you are applying—that make you want to attend the University? In what ways do you hope to take advantage of the qualities you have identified?

Northwestern Essay Example 1

As noted above, this first essay responds to an older version of the "Why Northwestern" essay prompt: it asked applicants to focus on the specific qualities that made the school unique and explain why these were ultimately appealing to them.

Since this student wanted to study in the Medill School of Journalism, he mainly writes about this facet of Northwestern.

At about 350 words, this essay is a little longer than what the current word limit allows (300 words), so just know that you'll have to write more concisely for your own essay.

Here's the sample:

One unquestioned pillar of journalism is the importance of accuracy in a journalist's work. So when my counselor at the National High School Institute, a current Northwestern journalism student, proclaimed, "Medill kicks your ass," I knew she had given my fellow cherubs and I the straight-up truth. Many exchanged nervous looks, and several immediately dismissed any chance of attending the Medill School of Journalism.

I surveyed the room, surprised at the fear hanging over the group. After all, we were 83 student journalists giving up a substantial portion of our summer to learn about and participate in the art.

Northwestern's reputation as a top-rated academic institution immediately drew me to the school. Specifically, the close connection with high-caliber professors was one quality that I originally found appealing even before my summer stay. I was also intrigued by the abundance of resources and facilities within the university and the city of Chicago. The journalism school has unmatched amenities and a rigorous curriculum designed to produce top-of-the-line journalists. But above all, Medill has a reputation as the best journalism school in the country.

Outside of the classroom, I would be the first to get involved with resources such as the Northwestern News Network, The Daily Northwestern , Northwestern Radio WNUR, and other student periodicals.

Northwestern's outstanding academics combined with an athletic program in the Big Ten Conference makes the university unique. It is certainly fun for everyone (except maybe for the Northwestern football team) to see the Buckeyes and Wolverines roll into Ryan Field every couple years.

I would be able to use my experience writing about the Detroit Lions to report on Northwestern teams. And by covering the lowly Lions, I would be prepared for any sort of losing season thrown at me.

But I am sure of one thing: I am attending college in order to learn, contribute, and to become the best journalist I can be. So while my friends may be having an easy, fun time at some school not named Medill, I'll be getting my ass kicked. And to tell the truth, I won't mind at all.

Here's what makes this "Why Northwestern" essay work:

• It's super specific. There's no doubt this essay was written for, and only for, Northwestern. The applicant goes into detail about the School of Journalism specifically and also mentions many unique opportunities he's interested in, such as working with The Daily Northwestern and the Northwestern News Network.
• It's got a lot of personality and humor. The applicant injects bits of humor with references to Medill "kicking his ass" and the Detroit Lions' losing streak. These quirky areas add tons of color to the essay and give balance to the student's more practical and academic reasons for applying to Northwestern.

Northwestern Essay Example 2

This second "Why Northwestern" essay example was written by an admitted student who chose to focus on extracurriculars at Northwestern and how the School of Engineering and Applied Science would benefit their desire to learn several skills at once. Once again, like the first essay, this essay is responding to the older version of the "Why Northwestern" prompt (given above).

Note that this essay is exactly 300 words long —the max length you are allowed to do for your own "Why Northwestern" essay.

Sweat drips onto my violin as we are filing into the auditorium.

I just arrived from a basketball game, I'm not nervous. However, that changes when I realize that I still have my basketball shoes on. And that I still have a plethora of edits to make in the newspaper room. And that I have three tests the next day.

Although it was stressful, I enjoyed every minute of juggling such diverse extracurriculars. I appreciated the many opportunities that my high school gave me, and took advantage of as many as I could handle. Thanks to these opportunities, I've fallen in love with various topics in different disciplines; all of which can be nurtured at Northwestern.

I'd be thrilled to pursue membership in the University Singers and the Philharmonia. It would be a great opportunity to learn from nationally recognized Emily Ellsworth with the Singers. I would also love to continue working with orchestral music in the Philharmonia.

The excellent humanities classes at the Weinberg School of Arts and Sciences also interest me. I'd love to pursue further education in subjects I was introduced to in high school, such as physics, psychology, and economics.

Finally, I believe that I am a perfect fit for the McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science due to its unique philosophy. The idea of "Whole-Brain Engineering" meshes perfectly with my interest in a wide array of subjects and disciplines. I have always believed in equal emphasis on logic and creativity in problem-solving situations, and an education at McCormick (and Northwestern in general) will bolster my well-roundedness.

My Northwestern experience isn't only about reaching an engineering career, but growing as a person. Such balanced growth will allow me to succeed through analyzation and innovation, preparing me to have an impact on the world.

• It's got a creative, attention-grabbing opening. There's not a lot of space to write for this essay, yet this applicant manages to come up with a memorable hook that grabs you almost immediately and thrusts you into the story. Within just the first few lines, we learn—through showing, not telling—that the applicant plays basketball in addition to helping out with the school newspaper. While these activities have contributed to increased stress, they've also (and more importantly) led to a stronger sense of intellectual satisfaction.
• It's highly specific. Like the first sample essay, this essay uses clear examples and details to discuss what attracted the applicant to Northwestern in particular . These include things such as the University Singers and the McCormick School's philosophy concerning the importance of a well-rounded education.

How to Write a Great "Why Northwestern" Essay: 3 Tips

Once you have an idea about how you want to approach the Northwestern essay prompt and what you plan to write about, use the following three tips to help you produce a great essay.

#1: Focus On What Makes Northwestern Unique

One of the most important tips to remember when writing the Northwestern supplement essay is to concentrate on what makes Northwestern different from other colleges. Think about it: If Northwestern didn't offer anything unique, why would students want to apply there specifically?

Don't just say you want to go to Northwestern because it's super prestigious or because your mom went there and loved it. Think deeply about why you've chosen to apply to Northwestern over the thousands of other colleges in the country.

Here are some questions to ask yourself:

• Does Northwestern offer the major(s) you're interested in pursuing? Is it well known for a specific program or field of study you want to enter?
• Are you interested in specific clubs, sports, or other extracurricular activities offered at Northwestern?
• Are there certain professors you wish to work with?
• What unique features of Northwestern do you like or think will be useful to you? For example, perhaps you're a fan of the school's close proximity to Chicago, where you'll have convenient access to research positions, internships, and other professional opportunities. Or maybe you love Northwestern's emphasis on small class sizes, or its impressive array of 100+ study abroad programs.
• Have current or former Northwestern students said anything about the school that made you want to apply there?

Although the Northwestern essay prompt is pretty open ended, take care to avoid writing about how prestigious, popular, and selective it is (after all, lots of schools are like this!) .

#2: Be Specific and Use Concrete Examples

You don't have a lot of space (just 300 words!) for the Northwestern essay, so try to write as clearly and specifically as possible. Use concrete examples to ground your story in reality and to make it clear to the admissions committee why applying to this school is so important to you.

For example, if you visited Northwestern, don't just say you went there and liked the campus—talk about something specific that happened to you and why this experience had such an impact on your decision to apply there.

Perhaps a professor said something encouraging to a student that made you realize how much you appreciated the supportive nature and sense of camaraderie there. Or maybe you noticed how earnestly students studied and could readily envision yourself doing homework alongside them.

In addition, if you plan to mention a specific professor you want to work with or a class you want to take, try to go beyond simple name-dropping. Instead, discuss why working with that professor or taking that class will help you attain your future goals, and why Northwestern is the only place you can actually do this.

#3: Polish It Up

As with any college essay, you need to spend some time editing and proofreading your "Why Northwestern" essay. Doing this will ensure that you're submitting a clean, polished, and overall well-written statement.

Here's what to do: once you finish writing a rough draft of your essay, put it away for at least a few days. Don't look at it during this time; you want to have a fresh perspective when you take it out again.

After some time has passed, take out your essay and begin to look for any glaring typos and grammar errors, as well as any areas you can expand, add, or delete. Pay attention to the organization and structure of your essay, too. Ask yourself: is the focus clear here? Am I being specific enough? Does the general flow make sense?

Once you've done this entire process a few times, give your essay to someone you trust, such as a mentor, teacher, parent, or older sibling. Have them look over your essay and offer comments on its topic, style, and structure. They should also check for technical errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

Finally, make sure they read the Northwestern essay prompt so they can confirm that you're actually answering what's being asked of you.

What's Next?

Applying to Northwestern means you'll also have to submit an essay for either the Common App or Coalition App. Check out our guide to the current Common App essay prompts for tips on how to compose an unforgettable personal statement.

Freaking out about how to write a killer college essay? First, take a deep breath. Second, read our step-by-step guide on how to write a college essay and take a look at our analysis of 100+ real college essays to get a feel for what colleges want—and don't want—to read in an application.

Learn more about Northwestern, including its average test scores and average GPA, by reading its admissions requirements page .

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Hannah received her MA in Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California. From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel.

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Successful Northwestern Essays

Northwestern essays →, northwestern mentors →, common app essay | a meaningful background, identity, interest, or talent | joseph.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you,…...

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Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What…...

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5 Successful “Why Northwestern” Essay Intros

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• essay intros
• supplemental essays

Interested in sharing the same alma mater as Stephen Colbert and David Schwimmer? If Northwestern is one of your top choices, you should be able to succinctly explain why.

Part of the Northwestern application includes a supplemental essay that asks you to elaborate on why you are applying to their school. Here’s their prompt:

We ask an intentionally open-ended question: why would you like to attend? When you answer, focus on your interests or experiences.

Here are 5 successful “Why Northwestern” essays to help you kickstart yours:

Northwestern ‘18

Any school, but especially Northwestern, is difficult to summarize.  Balanced, spirited, laidback, ambitious; although true, each word generalizes the depth of the overall university experience.  Two descriptors stand out above the rest, however: flexible and magnetic. Keep reading . 

Annacblakley

Northwestern ‘20.

After researching potential college majors, I decided to pursue engineering with a focus on the more creative and human side. While I love math and science, creativity and human interaction are very important to me. When I attended the Northwestern McCormick School of Engineering information session, Dean Holtgreive talked about the Design Thinking and Communication class; it sounded exactly like the course of study I want to pursue. Read more .

Northwestern ‘19

What appeals most to me about Northwestern is that it houses some of the world’s top scholars and innovators in Evanston who are accessible and willing to work with undergraduates on research projects. After my summer 2014 internship at The University of Akron’s Polymer Science department, the second best in the country, where I designed and implemented a procedure to test the effect of varying gecko toe pad surface chemistry on the effectiveness of the self-cleaning of its feet, I am seeking a school that is committed to undergraduate research. Continue reading .

There are many things I love about Northwestern, such as the academic flexibility, the chance to take more classes with the quarter system, the variety of clubs, and the proximity to Chicago.

That’s the answer I give to my friends and teachers. While those things are true, my real reason for choosing Northwestern is more than just academics, statistics, or Gator Bowl titles. It was the feeling I got that Friday afternoon in May when I first met Natalie, the student who would be hosting me for an overnight. Read more . 

With the rapid increase of global communications and the cultural preeminence of social media, the social fabric of American society is constantly shifting, and with it, the role of media within our everyday lives. The Medill School of Journalism would allow me to not only gain insight on the dynamic functions of modern media, but also develop the crucial rhetorical skills required to thrive in the professional world. View full essay .

—————

Interested in reading these students full personal statements, and Why Northwestern supplements? Unlock all of them in one go with our Why Northwestern package ! 

Our premium plans offer different level of profile access and data insights that can help you get into your dream school. Unlock any of our packages or search our undergraduate profile database to find specific profiles that can help you make an informed choice about where to apply! 

About The Author

Frances was born in Hong Kong and received her bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University. She loves super sad drama television, cooking, and reading. Her favorite person on Earth isn’t actually a member of the AdmitSee team - it’s her dog Cooper.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, looking for examples of 'why northwestern' essays that worked.

I'm starting to work on my Northwestern application and their 'Why Northwestern' prompt has me stressed out. Does anyone know where I can find examples of essays that worked? It would be super helpful to see successful essays to know what aspects of Northwestern to focus on in my own essay.

I understand that you're looking for examples to get an idea of what has worked for others in their "Why Northwestern" essays. You can find a couple in this CollegeVine article: https://blog.collegevine.com/northwestern-essay-examples

That said, it's important to keep in mind that what worked for other students may not necessarily work for you. The goal of the "Why Northwestern" essay is to showcase your unique interest in the University, your fit within their community, and how the school's offered programs align with your academic or career goals. Trying to emulate someone else's essay might end up misrepresenting your genuine interest and fit.

Instead, I suggest conducting thorough research on Northwestern's programs, resources, and clubs that genuinely interest you. Start by exploring their website, reading articles about the school, and connecting with current students or alumni if possible. Here are a few aspects to consider as you write your own "Why Northwestern" essay:

1. Academics: Focus on specific programs, majors, or courses that interest you. Explain how these opportunities align with your educational goals and how the school's academic approach will help you succeed.

2. Extracurriculars: Mention the clubs, organizations, or research opportunities that you'd like to be involved in, and explain how they align with your interests or passions.

3. Campus culture: Reflect on any unique campus traditions and community events that resonate with you, or discuss how Northwestern's diverse and inclusive community will contribute to your personal growth.

4. Location and resources: Describe the appeal of attending a school in the Chicago area (such as professional networking opportunities, cultural experiences, or access to internships) and explain how it fits your desired college experience.

Remember to be authentic and genuine while showcasing your understanding of what makes Northwestern unique. This approach will help you create a more compelling and original "Why Northwestern" essay that will stand out among other applicants. Good luck with your application!

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.

Northwestern University Essay Examples (And Why They Worked)

The following essay examples were written by several different authors who were admitted to Northwestern University and are intended to provide examples of successful Northwestern University application essays. All names have been redacted for anonymity. Please note that CollegeAdvisor.com has shared these essays with admissions officers at Northwestern University in order to deter potential plagiarism.

For more help with your Northwestern supplemental essays, check out our 2020-2021 Northwestern University Essay Guide ! For more guidance on personal essays and the college application process in general, sign up for a monthly plan to work with an admissions coach 1-on-1.

In 300 words or less, help us understand how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here. We are curious about what these specifics are, as well as how they may enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond.

Passion is described as “a strong feeling of enthusiasm or excitement for something” according to Merriam-Webster. This quality certainly cannot be taken lightly or easily flaunted, but when it is present, it deems expression.

My passion for business sprouted when I was nine and my father enrolled me in a Finance and Economics summer program at my local community college. I had dreaded the idea of doing something educational over the summer, but those feelings were quickly replaced with interest and excitement. With a small team, I helped manage a fake stock portfolio and witnessed the beginning of a national recession.

Although I do not use the term passion lightly, my passions are certainly far spread. Being involved in orchestra has allowed me to experience the beauty of music and given me the opportunity to play in the White House, France, and Monaco. My passion for teamwork has driven me to explore my abilities in Cross Country and Track.

Northwestern is a place where I can express my passions and explore new ones. When I visited Northwestern over the summer, two perky tour guides told me about their own passions. One was the president of her sorority and the other loved to dance and raved about Northwestern’s Dance Marathon. Passion allows us to thrive and be happy in our pursuits for success. The suburban campus will be a perfect place for me to immerse myself in clubs and activities while having easy access to opportunities in the lovely city of Chicago.

Why This Northwestern Essay Worked: From an ex-admissions officer

This essay is persuasive because it communicates urgency and energy around the student’s activities. It shows enthusiasm for and depth in the academic and extracurricular pursuits that have clearly defined the student’s journey. The student does a good job of tying their interests to their expected involvements at Northwestern. In doing so, the student helps the reader see the linear connection between the student and their potential to make a positive impact on the school.

In 2013, I embarked with my family on a whirlwind tour of seventeen American universities. Of all the schools I visited, Northwestern stood out. In addition to stellar academic programs, its emphasis on civic and global engagement really spoke to me. It is vital for me to attend college where both academic rigor and openness to the world and to others are widely promoted.

In the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, I could take advantage of a broad liberal arts education while taking classes closely aligned with my career goals. My Middle Eastern heritage and international background have made me passionate about social justice, peace, and conflict resolution, fields I would like to work in after college. At Weinberg, I hope to pursue an undergraduate program focused on Middle East and North African Studies, taking classes such as “Middle East, Modernity and Identity” or “The Middle East in International Politics.”

In addition, given the University’s proximity to Chicago, a city renowned for its cultural vibrancy, I would take advantage of everything from guest speakers visiting campus to performances and exhibitions in the city.

Finally, I believe the Northwestern Community Development Corps is an amazing resource for young people who are passionate about community outreach. Service has always been very important to me, and I’d like to continue in this path throughout college. It would help me sharpen my skills and strengthen my confidence to lead initiatives that can make a positive difference in the lives of others. I believe Northwestern is the place where all the aspects of my personality would thrive. Northwestern students and faculty are motivated, active, and inspiring in the ways that inspire me. At Northwestern, I would grow both academically and socially in an international and open-minded environment. It would be an honor to spend the next four years in such an incredible college.

Why Northwestern This Essay Worked: From an ex-admissions officer

The ideal “why X college” essay communicates as much about the student as it does about the student’s potential to make a positive impact on the school community. The writer needs to convince the reader that they have legitimacy, meaning that they have done real, thoughtful research about the school, and have put thought into why they and that particular college are a good fit. A strong “why X college” essay also showcases the student’s particular passions, talents, or interests and how those will manifest on the college campus.

These essay examples were compiled by the advising team at CollegeAdvisor.com . If you want to get help writing your Northwestern University application essays from CollegeAdvisor.com Admissions Experts , register with CollegeAdvisor.com today.

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How to Get Into Northwestern: Admissions Stats + Tips

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A top 10 college in the heart of one of the country’s great cities, it’s easy to see why so many college-bound high schoolers want to attend Northwestern University. Further bolstering Northwestern’s appeal is its list of notable alumni, which includes 22 Nobel Prize laureates and 40 Pulitzer Prize winners and a who’s-who list of celebrities including Stephen Colbert, David Schwimmer, and George R.R. Martin. 

How Hard Is It to Get Into Northwestern University?

Northwestern has historically been a very hard school to gain admission to and is only getting more difficult. The university’s 6.8% acceptance rate is the lowest in its history admitting just 3,239 students out of 47,633 applicants to its class of 2025. 

Northwestern received 4,411 applications through its early decision process, of which it offered admission to 1,105 applicants. Northwestern’s roughly 25% early decision acceptance rate is substantially higher than its overall acceptance rate. 

Admission to prestigious institutions with incredibly low acceptance rates like Northwestern is extremely challenging, however, your odds vary depending on the strength of your profile. CollegeVine’s free admissions calculator can help you better understand your chances of admission—it uses metrics like grades and test scores along with factors such as extracurricular activities to estimate your odds of acceptance and provide tips for improving your profile. 

Average Academic Profile of Accepted Northwestern University Students

Northwestern does not publish the GPA or class rank of admitted students, but it’s worth noting that 96% of the class of 2025 graduated in the top tenth of their high school class . 

The middle 50% SAT score of Northwestern’s class of 2025 is 1430-1540 and its middle 50% ACT score is 33-35 . On the SAT, 82.22% of the class of 2025 scored better than 1400, while 83.10% scored better than a 30 on the ACT. 

Northwestern doesn’t publish the high school class rank of students in their class of 2025. 

What is Northwestern University Looking for?

Northwestern looks for applicants interested in taking “a Northwestern direction” and pursuing a multidisciplinary education; 72% of undergrads combine two or more areas of study . Northwestern makes it easy for students to major across schools and pursue numerous minors and certificates.  

Northwestern weighs the application essay, particularly the Common Application essay, more heavily than extracurricular activities. This makes Northwestern a good choice for students with weaker extracurricular resumes hoping to attend a top 10 school. 

Some of the most recognizable names in both broadcast and print journalism attended Northwestern University’s Medill School. Consequently, Northwestern is the nation’s number one school for journalism—topping even institutions like Harvard and Stanford. 

How Northwestern University Evaluates Applications

According to their 2020-2021 Common Data Set, Northwestern considers the following factors “very important” :

• Course rigor

These factors are “important” :

• Recommendation letters
• Extracurricular activities 
• Talent/ability 
• Character/personal qualities 

These are “considered” :

• Test scores
• First generation 
• Racial/ethnic status 
• Volunteer work 
• Work experience 
• Applicant interest 

And these are “not considered” :

• Religious affiliation
• Geographical location
• State residence

Discover your chances at hundreds of schools

Our free chancing engine takes into account your history, background, test scores, and extracurricular activities to show you your real chances of admission—and how to improve them.

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting into Northwestern University 

1. achieve the highest gpa possible while taking the most challenging classes available.

Northwestern might not publish the average GPA of students admitted to the class of 2025, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t interested in your GPA. The only three characteristics the university deems “very important” are GPA, class rank, and course rigor. 

Highly selective schools that receive huge numbers of applications use Academic Index to hasten the admissions process. Academic Index is a distillation of an applicant’s academic credentials into a single number that the university uses to separate academically qualified applicants from those who miss the mark. If you fail to fall into Northwestern’s Academic Index range, it’s likely you’re not considered a serious applicant. 

To clear the Academic Index bar, it’s important for students to take the most challenging courses available to them. It’s common for students at top 10 schools like Northwestern to have completed upward of 12 AP courses over their high school careers. Wondering how many high-level classes you need? Check out our article, “ How Many AP Classes Should You Take? ”

If your GPA is lower and you’re earlier on in your high school career, check out our tips for increasing your GPA . If you’re a junior or senior, it will be harder to increase your GPA, so the easiest way to increase your Academic Index is to get a higher test score.

2. Aim for a 1540 SAT and 35 ACT  

The middle 50% range of accepted students at Northwestern is 1430-1540 for the SAT and 33-35 for the ACT. Any score in the middle 50% is good, however, the closer you get to the high end of the range, the better your odds of admission become. For applicants who sit for the SAT or ACT multiple times, Northwestern will super score them both, which makes taking the SAT/ACT multiple times a smart strategy to improve your odds of admission. 

To improve your SAT/ACT score, check out these free CollegeVine resources:

• How to Get a Perfect 1600 Score on the SAT
• How to Get a Perfect 36 Score on the ACT
• More SAT Info and Tips
• More ACT Info and Tips

Due to the challenges presented by COVID-19, Northwestern adopted a test-optional policy for the 2020-2021 admissions cycle and has extended it to 2021-2022. It’s recommended students take a standardized test if it’s possible to do so safely, as applicants who submit test scores are accepted at higher rates than those who do not. 

If you’ve taken a test but the score has left you wondering whether to submit it or not, CollegeVine recommends submitting scores if they’re at, or above, the 25th percentile of accepted students at the school. Students can get recommendations on whether or not they should apply test-optional using our free chancing engine . 

3. Write engaging essays

Once you clear Northwestern’s academic threshold, essays are the best way to set yourself apart from the competition. As Northwestern says on its website’s admissions portal, “Essays are an opportunity.” Northwestern places considerable weight on the Common Application and Coalition Application essay. 

Northwestern also recommends all applicants submit a writing supplement—if you’re serious about getting accepted, it’s a good idea to consider this required. The supplemental essay prompt is: 

While other parts of your application give us a sense of who you are, we are also excited to hear more about how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community.

In 300 words or less, help us understand how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here. We are curious about what these specifics are, as well as how they may enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond.

In addition to the Northwestern Writing Supplement, admission into some specific programs also requires an essay. To learn about all of the Northwestern writing requirements and how to craft compelling Northwestern essays, read our article, “ How to Write the Northwestern University Essays 2021-2022 .”

4. Cultivate at least one or two Tier 1-2 extracurriculars (find your “spike”)

Northwestern places less of an emphasis on extracurricular activities—it considers extracurricular activities “important”—than other top 10 schools. However, they’re still an excellent way to separate yourself from the competition and highlight what makes you special. 

All extracurricular activities can add insight into your interests outside of the classroom, but some are more impressive in the admissions process. The 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars are an easy way to understand the impact of your extracurriculars. Aim for one or two activities from the top tiers, rather than a bunch of less-impressive, unrelated activities. For example, a  highly developed interest known as a “ spike ” can improve your odds at a top 10 school like Northwestern. 

The 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars are: 

• Tier 1 extracurriculars show exceptionally high levels of achievement and leadership. These activities are very rare and include winning a national award or honored achievement.     
• Tier 2 activities demonstrate high levels of leadership and achievement but are more common than those found in Tier 1. Examples include holding a leadership position in a well-known club or making an all-state selection in athletics or music. 
• Tier 3 activities highlight a student’s interests more than spotlight distinctions. These activities include holding minor leadership positions in popular clubs or lesser achievements, like being captain of a varsity sport. 
• Tier 4 are the most common and least influential of extracurricular activities. These include participating in a club, sport, or musical group and general volunteer work. 

5. Apply Early Action/Early Decision

Northwestern has an early decision (ED) application process which has the benefit of having a much higher acceptance rate than the university’s overall acceptance rate—25% vs. 6.8%. Simply put, one of the best ways qualified applicants can improve their odds of acceptance at Northwestern is to apply for early decision. 

While early decision delivers higher acceptance rates, it isn’t for everybody. Early decision is binding and by applying ED to Northwestern, you are committing to attend if accepted—this means you can’t compare financial aid offers from other institutions. 

In general, early decision is a good path for applicants who are sure that Northwestern is the school they want to attend and are able to afford going there. 

6. Recommendation Letters 

Northwestern considers letters of recommendation “important” when making admissions decisions and requires applicants to submit two letters of recommendation. One letter should come from your high school advisor—that is a college counselor, guidance counselor, academic advisor, or career center specialist—who can speak to your high school curriculum and involvement in your high school. The other recommendation should come from a teacher in a core subject from your junior or senior year who can address your strengths as a student. 

Teachers are not compensated for the time they spend writing recommendation letters, so make it as easy as possible on them by following these general guidelines:

• Leave them plenty of time to write the letter; a few months’ notice is advisable.
• Provide them with all the information they need to write a compelling letter—a resume, transcript, or recollection of a relevant memory are all useful.
• Make sure to say thank you once it’s written; it’s not uncommon to give a small token of your appreciation like a gift card or something homemade.

Check out our 9 Rules For Requesting Letters of Recommendation from Teachers for comprehensive advice on how to get compelling letters of recommendation. 

How to Apply to Northwestern University 

Application Requirements

Northwestern accepts both the Common Application and the Coalition Application. The other Northwestern application requirements are:

• Official transcript 
• Mid-year transcript
• School report 
• Counselor recommendation 
• Teacher recommendation 
• Music audition (music school only)

Other optional materials include: 

• SAT/ACT Score 
• Northwestern writing supplement 

Learn more about Northwestern University 

Interested in learning more about Northwestern? Check out these other informative articles: 

• What is Northwestern University Known For?
• Northwestern University Diversity Statistics: An In-Depth Look
• How to Get Into Northwestern 
• Northeastern vs. Northwestern: Which College is Right for You?
• Northwestern vs. Vanderbilt: Which College is Right for You?
• UChicago vs. Northwestern: Which College is Right for You?

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How to Get into Northwestern: Insights from a Former Admissions Officer

How Hard Is It to Get Into Northwestern?

Admissions Process

Application Requirements

Maximise Your Chance of Acceptance

Northwestern University is renowned for its strong academic and athletic programs, consistently ranking as a top institution in the United States. Located in Evanston, Illinois, its idyllic lakeside campus not only offers a vibrant Big Ten athletic experience but is also just a short trip away from Chicago, providing a plethora of cultural and professional opportunities for its students.

In this blog, we tap into the insider knowledge of Skyler Adams, a former admissions officer at Northwestern University , to uncover what it truly takes to secure a coveted acceptance letter. Skyler provides practical insights that will help demystify the admissions process and highlight the unique values and priorities Northwestern considers when evaluating applications. This guidance is crucial for any prospective student aiming to stand out in their application to this esteemed university.

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Northwestern stands out as one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the United States. With an overall acceptance rate of around 7% , securing admission is incredibly challenging; only about 7 out of every 100 applicants receive an offer.

While these numbers might seem daunting, don't be discouraged! Implementing strategic changes, such as applying through Early Decision, can significantly enhance your chances. Engaging with the insights in this article, like understanding Northwestern’s evaluation criteria or the importance of showcasing intellectual curiosity, equips you with the tools to make informed, effective adjustments that could make all the difference.

Academic Profile of Admitted Students at Northwestern

Understanding Northwestern's Admissions Process

Skyler Adams provides a comprehensive overview of how Northwestern University meticulously designs its admissions process to identify students who will thrive academically and within their campus community.

Team-Based Reading

During the Early Decision cycle, applications are initially reviewed through a method known as "Team-Based Reading." In this phase, teams of two admissions officers collaboratively review each application file. This approach ensures a comprehensive assessment from multiple perspectives, which helps the admissions team gain a deeper understanding of each applicant's unique context and potential.

Class Shaping

Following the initial review, the process moves into the "Class Shaping" stage. Here, decisions are refined to ensure a diverse class, balancing factors such as academic interests, geographic origin, and other institutional priorities. This stage is crucial for building a well-rounded student body that aligns with Northwestern's values and goals.

Evaluation in School Groups

It is important to note that applications are evaluated in "school groups." This means that your profile will be viewed not only holistically but also in comparison to peers from your own high school. This approach places a strong emphasis on selecting the most challenging courses available and standing out within your specific educational context. Excelling academically and being an active participant in your local community is critical to improving your chances of admission.

Northwestern's Application Requirement

Understanding the application components that Northwestern University prioritizes helps applicants tailor their submissions to meet the university's high standards. Below, we integrate insights from Skyler Adams to provide a detailed guide on how to approach each aspect of your application effectively.

Academic Requirements

Northwestern University seeks students who demonstrate exceptional academic rigor and intellectual curiosity. Skyler Adams underscores the importance of engaging in the most challenging courses, such as AP, IB, or Honors, to strengthen your application.

• GPA : Aim for a GPA of 3.75 or higher , as this aligns with the achievements of most admitted students.
• Class Rank : Being in the top 10 percent of your class is crucial to meeting the university's standards for academic excellence.
• Course Load : Students should take the most demanding course load possible, utilizing AP, IB, or Honors courses in core subject areas.

Skyler notes that your academic choices and transcript account for 40% of the evaluation weight , highlighting the need for a rigorous academic profile that extends beyond traditional metrics.

Test Scores and Northwestern's Test-Optional Policy

Despite Northwestern University’s test-optional policy , the decision to submit standardized test scores should be carefully considered. Skyler Adams provides critical insights into how submitting your scores can impact your application.

Importance of High Test Scores

• SAT Scores : Skyler advises aiming for 1500 or higher .
• ACT Scores : Aim for 33 or higher .

Skyler emphasizes that it will be hard to be admitted with a SAT score below 1500, highlighting the competitiveness of the applicant pool.

Submitting Scores

• General Guidance : 78% of admitted students choose to submit their scores, suggesting that high scores are still a significant advantage.
• Additional Test Scores : Including AP exams or SAT Subject Test scores can further demonstrate your academic readiness and subject mastery. Skyler notes that these scores are helpful and can enhance your academic profile.

Test-Optional Considerations

• When to Opt for Test-Optional : If your standardized test scores do not accurately reflect your academic abilities, opting for a test-optional application might be beneficial. However, Skyler points out that Northwestern was initially very reluctant to adopt the test-optional policy, indicating that a small percentage of admits apply without test scores. Therefore, if you choose this route, your application needs to stand out significantly in other areas.
• Circumstantial Factors : If unforeseen circumstances like illness or testing center issues affected your performance, you should contextualize your decision not to submit scores within your application.

How Academic Rigor is Graded at Northwestern

Northwestern evaluates academic rigor on a scale from 1 to 5, with a '1' or '2' typically required for admission:

Academic Rigor

Strategies for Academic Excellence

To achieve the highest ratings and excel both academically and in standardized tests, consider these strategies:

• Start Early : Building strong grades requires a consistent effort throughout your high school career.
• Seek Support : If you find a subject challenging, actively seek help from teachers, counselors, or tutors.
• Balance is Key : Maintain a healthy balance between academics, extracurricular activities, and personal well-being to ensure sustained academic performance.

By understanding and strategically addressing these aspects of the application process, prospective students can significantly enhance their chances of acceptance at Northwestern University, demonstrating their readiness to thrive in a challenging academic environment.

Essay Requirements

Your essays are a prime opportunity to communicate directly with Northwestern University's admissions committee. They provide a platform to demonstrate how your experiences and values align with the university's ethos.

Importance of Authentic and Insightful Essays

Skyler Adams emphasizes that exceptional essays can significantly distinguish candidates. Essays should go beyond regurgitating information found in viewbooks and offer a deep, personal insight into your aspirations and how Northwestern specifically aligns with your goals.

Northwestern's Essay Prompts

Northwestern’s supplemental essays are crafted to help the admissions committee understand your high school experiences and envision what kind of student you may become at Northwestern:

• Required Question : We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences. What aspects of your background, your identity, or your school, community, and/or household settings have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise?
• Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression. What would you paint on The Rock, and why?
• Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. If you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort, what would it be and who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?
• Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.
• Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?
• Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?

Strategies for Writing Compelling Essays

• Repurpose Wisely : If previous essays you’ve written effectively tell your story, feel free to repurpose them for Northwestern’s prompts, ensuring they are tailored to the specific questions asked.
• Showcase Your Individuality : Highlight unique elements of your identity and experiences not covered elsewhere in your application.
• Be Strategic : Although optional, responding to at least one supplemental essay can provide additional depth and context about your personal and intellectual qualities.
• Reflect on Your Contribution : Think deeply about how you can contribute to the Northwestern community and how your unique perspectives can enrich the campus.

Demonstrated Fit Through Essays

Skyler notes the importance of demonstrating specific reasons why Northwestern is the right place for you:

• Classes and Professors : Mention specific classes and professors with whom you wish to study or conduct research.
• Proximity to Chicago : Discuss specific opportunities in Chicago that are important to your academic and career goals rather than just its proximity.

Essay Ratings at Northwestern

To effectively measure how well you've demonstrated fit, Northwestern uses a rating system similar to the one for academic rigor:

Essay Rating

By understanding these aspects of the essay writing process and strategically addressing them in your application, you can significantly enhance your chances of acceptance at Northwestern University, demonstrating your readiness to contribute meaningfully to their academic community.

The Essay That Got Me Into Northwestern

Extracurricular Requirements

At Northwestern University, extracurricular activities are not just a complement to your academic performance; they are a core part of your application, making up 30% of the overall evaluation .

Skyler Adams emphasizes that Northwestern assesses extracurricular involvement on a scale from 1 to 5, focusing on leadership and impact. It's essential that your involvement is not merely extensive but meaningful—leadership roles, national awards, or initiatives that have significantly impacted your community are highly valued.

Extracurricular Impact

Embracing the "And is in our DNA" Philosophy

Northwestern seeks students who excel across multiple areas—academically, artistically, athletically, etc. This multidimensional excellence is part of what Northwestern calls the "And is in our DNA" philosophy. The university appreciates students who bring diverse talents and perspectives to their campus community.

How do you create a strong extracurricular profile for Northwestern?

• Quality and Depth: Northwestern evaluates extracurricular involvement on a scale from 1 to 5, with leadership and impact being paramount. Aim for a "3" or higher by engaging deeply in activities where you can take on leadership roles such as captain or president, earn significant awards like the Gold Award or Eagle Scout, or initiate projects that have a tangible impact on your community.
• Showcase Your "And": Highlight your ability to excel in multiple areas, demonstrating versatility and breadth in your interests. Whether you are an athlete who also excels in the arts or a science enthusiast who leads community service projects, showing how you integrate diverse passions reflects the well-rounded excellence that Northwestern seeks.
• Activity Chart: Use the activity chart in your application to describe your involvement. This is your opportunity to outline your roles, the extent of your commitments, and any notable achievements. Be thorough and ensure clarity by explaining any abbreviations or unique terms used in your descriptions.
• Be Specific: In describing your extracurriculars, focus on specific responsibilities and the impact of your contributions. Details matter—clearly articulating the scope of your roles and the effects of your efforts can significantly enhance your application.
• Prioritize Depth Over Breadth: While a variety of interests is beneficial, Northwestern places greater value on deep and sustained engagement rather than a long list of superficial activities. Focus on a few areas where you can demonstrate commitment and significant growth.
• Connect to Northwestern's Resources: Consider how your extracurricular activities might align with or benefit from Northwestern's resources, clubs, or groups. Demonstrating a connection between what you do now and what you plan to engage in at Northwestern can strengthen your case as a fit for the university.
• Include All Relevant Details: Ensure that any leadership positions, awards, or distinctive projects are prominently featured in your application. Such details can distinguish your application and show the admissions committee that you have achieved a level of recognition and responsibility in your activities.

Your extracurriculars paint a comprehensive picture of who you are beyond the academic sphere. They reveal your passions, values, and potential to impact the Northwestern community positively. Authenticity and passion are key. Embrace your unique interests and how they contribute to a diverse student body.

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation play a critical role in your Northwestern application, providing the admissions committee with insights into your academic achievements, character, and community engagement. Here’s how you can ensure your recommendations strengthen your application.

Choosing the Right Recommenders

Select recommenders who know you well and can speak authoritatively about your academic abilities, character, and potential to thrive at Northwestern. These should ideally be individuals who have observed you in settings that highlight your intellectual and personal qualities—teachers, mentors, or supervisors who can provide detailed and specific examples of your impact and character.

What Your Recommenders Should Highlight

• Your Standout Qualities : Encourage your recommenders to detail instances where you've demonstrated exceptional leadership, intellectual curiosity, or a significant impact on your environment. Phrases that compare you favorably to your peers, such as "top 1% of students I have ever taught," can be particularly powerful.
• Academic Fit : Recommenders, especially teachers, should focus on your strengths as a student within their specific subject area. This is particularly important if the teacher is from a core academic area related to your intended field of study at Northwestern.
• Connection to Northwestern : If possible, recommenders should draw links between your skills and experiences and what you can contribute to Northwestern. Familiarity with the university's specific offerings, such as research opportunities, student organizations, or even faculty work, can help paint a clearer picture of how you might fit into and benefit from Northwestern's community.

Counselor Recommendations

Your school counselor’s recommendation should provide a comprehensive view of your academic record and extracurricular involvement, offering context to your overall performance and contributions within your school community. This recommendation can address aspects like your academic rigor and personal growth over time.

Supplemental Recommendations

If you choose to submit supplemental letters, ensure they offer new insights about who you are. These letters could be from individuals who have seen different facets of your personality and achievements that are not covered by your teachers or counselor.

Tips for Effective Recommendations

• Provide Context : Help your recommenders by reminding them of specific projects, achievements, or instances that showcase your strengths. Providing a brief reminder or bullet points can lead to richer, more detailed letters.
• Follow Directions : Ensure that each recommendation adheres to Northwestern’s requirements regarding length, format, and submission methods.
• Express Gratitude : Always thank your recommenders for their time and effort, as writing a thoughtful recommendation letter is a significant commitment.

A strong letter of recommendation is more than just praise—it is a detailed endorsement of your candidacy, providing evidence of your readiness for the academic and social environment at Northwestern. By carefully selecting recommenders who can attest to your qualifications and potential, you enhance not just your application but also your narrative as a prospective student.

Maximizing Your Admission Chances at Northwestern

Securing a spot at Northwestern University requires a strategic and well-rounded application approach. Here are the key strategies shared by Skyler Adams to enhance your candidacy:

1. Leverage Early Decision (ED)

• Strategic Advantage : Applying through Early Decision significantly increases your chances of acceptance. Northwestern's ED acceptance rate is around 25%, compared to less than 7% for Regular Decision.
• Class Composition Control : ED applicants fill roughly half of the incoming class slots, providing a clearer pathway to admission than the highly competitive Regular Decision pool.
• Demonstrated Interest : Applying ED automatically awards you a rank of '1' for demonstrated interest, indicating a high commitment to attending Northwestern if admitted.

2. Strategic Academic Planning

• Course Rigor : Focus on excelling in the most challenging courses, such as AP, IB, or Honors. Aim to be in the top 3% of your class and pursue a curriculum that challenges you across all core subject areas.
• Standardized Tests : Aim for a SAT score of 1500+ or equivalent ACT score. High test scores are critical unless you represent an institutional priority, such as athletics or diverse backgrounds.
• Intellectual Curiosity : To demonstrate depth and initiative, engage in research and advanced study opportunities that align with your academic interests.

3. Mastering the 'Why Northwestern' Essay

While the 'Why Northwestern' essay is technically optional, answering it is crucial for demonstrating your specific interest in and knowledge of Northwestern. This essay allows you to go beyond general admiration and connect your academic and career goals with specific aspects of Northwestern's unique offerings.

• Detail Specific Programs and Opportunities : Your essay should describe how specific academic programs, faculty members, extracurricular opportunities, and Northwestern's unique culture align with your long-term goals. Show that you have a well-thought-out plan for engaging with Northwestern's resources.
• Avoid Generic Responses : It is important to move beyond surface-level descriptions that could be true of many prestigious universities. Instead, focus on what makes Northwestern uniquely suited to your ambitions. Discuss specific classes you want to take, professors with whom you wish to conduct research and unique opportunities only Northwestern can provide.
• Demonstrate Informed Interest : Although optional, this essay plays a significant role in demonstrating your interest in Northwestern. It can be particularly influential in distinguishing your application from others, especially in a highly competitive applicant pool. Providing a well-researched, thoughtful essay can significantly impact your demonstrated interest rating.

By engaging deeply with this prompt, you can effectively convey your enthusiasm for and commitment to Northwestern, significantly enhancing your application’s appeal to the admissions committee.

4. Deepening Extracurricular Impact

• Leadership and Impact : Strive for leadership roles and significant impacts in your activities. Northwestern values community engagement and leadership that reflects a commitment to excellence and influence, whether it’s in sports, the arts, or community service.
• Activity Ratings : Achieve at least a '3+' rating by demonstrating localized leadership or recognition. Exceptional candidates often exhibit state-level or national achievements.

5. Enhancing Communication Skills

• Essays and Recommendations : Work closely with your recommenders to ensure they highlight your academic strengths and personal qualities. Your essays should reflect your unique voice and insights, effectively communicating your fit and potential contributions to Northwestern.

6. Understanding Institutional Priorities

• Diversity and Inclusion : Reflect on how your unique experiences and perspectives contribute to a richer dialogue on campus. Incorporate this understanding into your application to align with Northwestern's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

7. Final Checklist

• Comprehensive Review : Before submitting, ensure every part of your application reflects your best efforts and aligns with the strategic advice provided. Consider having your application reviewed by a teacher, counselor, or mentor for final adjustments and feedback.

By implementing these strategies and adhering to the insights provided by Skyler Adams, prospective students can significantly enhance their chances of acceptance at Northwestern University, demonstrating their readiness to thrive in its challenging academic environment.

Final Thoughts

Northwestern employs a holistic review process, meaning every part of your application is important. However, you’ve now seen more nuances than meets the eye. There is no guaranteed formula for admission, but combining academic rigor, meaningful extracurricular participation, a strong personal connection to the university, and superior communication skills will place you among the most competitive applicants.

Crafting a compelling application to a prestigious university like Northwestern requires strategic guidance, individualized support, and the expertise to showcase your unique strengths. Crimson Education partners with students to achieve their top university goals.  Our expert advisors excel in:

• Understanding Admissions Priorities: With our deep knowledge of what Northwestern values, we'll help you highlight the academic rigor, extracurricular achievements, and intellectual curiosity that will make you stand out.
• Crafting Standout Essays: Our essay mentors will guide you in writing essays that authentically and persuasively communicate your "Why Northwestern?" story, showcasing your fit with the university.
• Extracurricular Strategy: We'll help you identify and pursue activities demonstrating your passions, leadership potential, and readiness to contribute to Northwestern's vibrant community.
• Maximizing Your Potential: With personalized support and mentorship, we'll help you develop academic excellence, well-roundedness, and compelling application that aligns with Northwestern's high standards.

Ready to take the next step toward your Northwestern dream?  Book a free consultation with a Crimson Education advisor today. We'll discuss your individual profile and goals and create a personalized strategy to maximize your chances of acceptance.

Let Crimson Education help you navigate the complex admissions process and unlock your path to Northwestern University.

About the Contributor

Skyler Adams

Skyler Adams, a former Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Northwestern and Associate Director at Chicago Booth, has over a decade of experience in admissions. He has helped students gain acceptance to top institutions including Yale and Princeton. An advocate for educational equity, Skyler also serves on the board of Green Halo Scholars and directs Camp Sunshine for individuals with disabilities.

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Northwestern Supplemental Essays 2024-25 – Prompts and Advice

July 19, 2024

With an acceptance rate of just over 7% for the Class of 2028, Northwestern University is very much an “Ivy-equivalent” school. This is true both in terms of quality academics and selectivity. Last fall, incoming Wildcats almost universally placed within the top 10% of their respective high school class. They also boasted average SAT scores in the 1470 range. In 2024-25, even high schoolers bringing superior credentials to the table need to realize that the majority of the other 50,000+ applicants can demonstrate comparable levels of achievement. Therefore, applicants need to look for other ways to separate themselves from the pack. And that brings us to the Northwestern supplemental essay prompts.

 (Want to learn more about How to Get Into Northwestern University? Visit our blog entitled:  How to Get Into Northwestern University: Admissions Data and Strategies   for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

In addition to one required essay prompt, Northwestern also gives applicants the opportunity to respond to at least one (and up to two) optional prompts. Essentially, every applicant has three opportunities to stand out in the eyes of admissions officers and showcase what makes them uniquely qualified for admission. Below you will find Northwestern’s supplemental prompts for the 2024-25 admissions cycle along with our advice on how to pen winning compositions.

2024-2025 Northwestern Supplemental Essays

Prompt #1 (required for all applicants).

We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background (your identity, your school setting, your community, your household, etc.) have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise? (300 words)

Northwestern is inviting you to share more about your background/identity/community through the lens of how that will impact your experience at the university. Take note of the wide-open nature of this prompt. You are essentially invited to talk about any of the following topics:

• A perspective you hold
• An experience/challenge you had
• A community you belong to
• Your cultural background
• Your religious background
• Your family background
• Your sexual orientation or gender identity

Although this prompt’s open floor plan may feel daunting, a good tactic is to first consider what has already been communicated within your Common App personal statement and activities list. What important aspect(s) of yourself have not been shared (or sufficiently discussed)? The admissions officer reading your essay is hoping to connect with you through your written words, so—within your essay’s reflection—be open, humble, thoughtful, inquisitive, emotionally honest, mature, and/or insightful about what you learned and how you grew.

Northwestern Supplemental Essays (Continued)

You’ll then need to discuss how your background/identity/experiences have influenced your academic, social, or extracurricular college goals. As such, think about what you learned and how it relates to one of the previously mentioned areas. For example, perhaps growing up in Northern California has made you passionate about post-wildfire ecosystem restoration, which you hope to pursue further through Northwestern’s environmental science program. Or, perhaps your experience as a poll worker has made you interested in NU Votes , or the discrimination you watched your sibling face after revealing their gender identity has informed your desire to be part of organizations like the Rainbow Alliance .

To that end, be sure you address how you will take advantage of Northwestern’s immense resources both inside and/or outside of the classroom by citing specific academic programs , professors , research opportunities , special opportunities , study abroad programs , student-run organizations , etc.

Prompt #2 (Optional but Recommended)

Most “optional” essays are not truly optional, and Northwestern’s new essay prompts are no different. Think of it this way: if you’re truly interested in attending Northwestern, you have two more incredibly valuable opportunities to further demonstrate that fit. Take advantage of them!

The following questions are optional, but we encourage you to answer at least one and no more than two. Please respond in fewer than 200 words per question:

• Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why?

Out of everything on this Earth, what makes you tick? What keeps you up at night? What issue could you talk about or debate for hours? If you could address one problem in the world, large or small, what would it be? What do you love to do? Do you have a treasured cultural tradition that you’d love to share with others? If you are answering at least one of these questions, you are on the right track with this essay.

• Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?

Firstly, you’ll want to select a course centered around a topic about which you are an expert or hope to become an expert. The admissions reader is well aware that you are a teenager and not someone who has yet earned a Ph.D. Therefore, being a self-taught, informal expert is perfectly fine. You’ll then want to explain “why”—why will (or should) your passion be made relevant to a wider audience? And who would you want to work with along the way? These classmates and collaborators could be peers, mentors, or even guest speakers. Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind:

• Given the prompt’s wording, quality answers should involve the intersection of two or more disciplines.
• Course creation essays can and should reveal your ability to connect and synthesize information.
• Make sure that the topic of your course is not overly broad or already offered. The topic should not be akin to a 101 college course like Intro to Psychology…be creative!
• Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.

Keep in mind that Northwestern has already seen the President’s Volunteer Service Award and the impressive number of hours you volunteered at multiple nonprofit organizations. They know that you have been an active member of your high school/local community. The admissions committee now desires to understand precisely how you will contribute to  their  community of 8,000+ undergraduate students. Highlighting the link between your past efforts and future aims is critical here. For example, if you dedicated many hours to increasing your high school’s mental health support services, it will be more impactful when you now express your commitment to joining Northwestern’s Active Minds organization.

The strongest Northwestern community essays will show evidence of meaningful school-specific research. This research process will actually give you a better idea of how you would sincerely like to become engaged at each prospective school on your list. Admissions officers will appreciate a Northwestern-centric answer far more than a generic (often recycled from app to app) response. Moreover, given the word count, you’ll be able to produce the strongest response if you focus on just one or two specific aspects of your identity and perspective.

• Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?

If you choose to answer this question, know that you’ll need to think very deeply about your answer. Admissions officers are going to receive scores of responses about the number of opportunities available in Chicago, generalities about living in a suburb of a major city, and proximity to famous regional landmarks. As such, if Northwestern’s location feels particularly important to you, dig deep as to why . What location-specific experiences will you be able to have at Northwestern that you won’t be able to have anywhere else?

• Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?

This prompt asks you to not only share a particular life experience but also describe why that experience will enable you to contribute to Northwestern in general. Essentially, it’s asking you to take your essay’s reflection one step further—you’ll need to share why the experience you’ve chosen has impacted you as well as why/how you believe it will allow you to positively impact the Northwestern community.

First, choose a key aspect of your experiences or background that reveals something deep and meaningful about you. (Although you could choose more than one, we’d advise against it, given that you only have 200 words in which to respond.) As you brainstorm, consider the following avenues:

• Your role in your family.
• Your role in your social group.
• A challenge you’ve faced.
• A formative experience or realization.
• Core values and beliefs.
• Important aspects of your upbringing.
• Cultural, religious, or community influence.

Second, you’ll need to describe both personal and future impact. Make sure that your answer reveals something about how you will live out Northwestern’s values or contribute to a specific academic/social community.

Finally, this prompt is quite similar to the required prompt about background and identity (see above), so if you choose this option, be sure you’re not repeating yourself in any way. If you’ve already said everything you need to say about your background in the required prompt, you’ll likely want to choose a different option.

How important are the Northwestern supplemental essays?

The essays (including the Common App essay) are viewed as “important” to the Northwestern applicant evaluation process. The other factors that are also considered “important” are: recommendations, extracurricular activities, talent/ability, and character/personal qualities. The only four factors viewed as being more important than the essays are GPA, test scores, class rank, and the rigor of one’s curriculum.

Want personalized essay assistance?

If you are interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your Northwestern supplemental essay, we encourage you to  get a quote  today.

Need additional college essay-writing resources? Consider checking out the following:

• Common App Essay Prompts
• 10 Instructive Common App Essay Examples
• College Application Essay Topics to Avoid
• Should I Complete Optional College Essays?
• How to Brainstorm a College Essay
• 25 Inspiring College Essay Topics
• “Why This College?” Essay Examples
• How to Write the Community Essay
• College Essay

Andrew Belasco

A licensed counselor and published researcher, Andrew's experience in the field of college admissions and transition spans two decades. He has previously served as a high school counselor, consultant and author for Kaplan Test Prep, and advisor to U.S. Congress, reporting on issues related to college admissions and financial aid.

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• Application Materials

Required, Supplemental, and Optional Application Elements

Completing Your Northwestern Application

A quick checklist of application components can be found on our main  Apply page . Below, you can find help related to application components, such as your letters of recommendation or personal statements, and answers to common questions.

Standardized Test Scores

Northwestern will remain test-optional for the 2024–25 admissions cycle. We will not require ACT or SAT scores from first-year or transfer candidates applying for fall 2025 entry.

If students choose to take an SAT or ACT, there is no preference for either exam—and will review a “superscore” for both tests. For students who take the SAT or ACT more than once, this means that our system will combine the highest section scores across multiple test dates and calculate a “superscore” that will override the high score from a single sitting in our database. Applicants are not obligated to report scores from all test dates, though are welcome to do so.

• For students who take the ACT section tests, we will factor any individual section scores into your ACT superscore. You may utilize ACT’s new superscore reporting option to report an official superscore.
• Students may self-report all SAT and ACT scores, but   please do not calculate your own ACT superscore —report your highest ACT section scores and your highest composite score from a single test date, and our system will calculate the ACT superscore. Admitted students who choose to enroll will be required to submit official SAT or ACT test scores that confirm highest self-reported section/composite scores prior to matriculation.

Letters of Recommendation

TIP: Letters of recommendation should be from individuals who can best speak to the range of your strengths and abilities.

We require two letters of recommendation.

One letter should come from your high school counselor. This could be your college counselor, guidance counselor, academic advisor, career center specialist or whoever can to best speak to your overall high school curriculum and involvement within the context of your high school. The second letter should come from one of your teachers who can address your strengths as a student in the classroom; this recommender should most likely be a teacher from one of your core subject areas, in your junior or senior year.

If you have an additional reference who would like to submit a letter on your behalf, we will accept supplemental letters of recommendation. It is in your best interest that each letter provides new or different information about you.

Personal Statement and Supplemental Essay(s)

Northwestern 2024–25 first-year writing supplements.

We have designed these writing supplements to help us understand your experiences throughout high school and imagine what kind of Northwestern student you may become. The supplemental questions below touch on areas we see as important for building Northwestern’s Class of 2029, but you should feel free to repurpose essays you’ve written for other applications (including the Common/Coalition Application personal essay, which we no longer require) if they tell the story you’d most like to share.   

We also know there may be information or qualities not covered in our supplemental questions that  you  see as important to your application. To that end, we welcome—but by no means expect—your submission of a personal essay or additional information in the Common Application.

The following question is required for all Common Application and Coalition with Scoir applicants (optional for QuestBridge applicants). Please respond in 300 words or fewer:

• We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background (your identity, your school setting, your community, your household, etc.) have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise?

We encourage you to answer at least one and no more than two of the following questions. Please respond in fewer than 200 words per question:

• Painting “The Rock” is a tradition at Northwestern that invites all forms of expression—students promote campus events or extracurricular groups, support social or activist causes, show their Wildcat spirit (what we call “Purple Pride”), celebrate their culture, and more. What would you paint on The Rock, and why?
• Northwestern fosters a distinctively interdisciplinary culture. We believe discovery and innovation thrive at the intersection of diverse ideas, perspectives, and academic interests. Within this setting, if you could dream up an undergraduate class, research project, or creative effort (a start-up, a design prototype, a performance, etc.), what would it be? Who might be some ideal classmates or collaborators?
• Community and belonging matter at Northwestern. Tell us about one or more communities, networks, or student groups you see yourself connecting with on campus.
• Northwestern’s location is special: on the shore of Lake Michigan, steps from downtown Evanston, just a few miles from Chicago. What aspects of our location are most compelling to you, and why?
• Northwestern is a place where people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world can study, live, and talk with one another. This range of experiences and viewpoints immeasurably enriches learning. How might your individual background contribute to this diversity of perspectives in Northwestern’s classrooms and around our campus?

Northwestern 2024–25 Transfer Writing Supplements

We have designed our writing supplements to help us understand your experiences in school and imagine what kind of Northwestern student you may become. Our supplemental questions touch on areas we see as important for shaping our incoming transfer cohort, but you should feel free to repurpose essays you’ve written for other applications (including the personal essay, which we no longer require) if they tell the story you’d most like to share. 

We also know there may be information or qualities not covered in our supplemental questions that you see as important to your application. To that end, we welcome—but by no means expect—your submission of a personal essay or additional information, which you can upload via your Northwestern portal. 

The following questions are required for all applicants. Please respond in 300 words or fewer:

•  We want to be sure we’re considering your application in the context of your personal experiences: What aspects of your background, your identity, or your school, community, and/or household settings have most shaped how you see yourself engaging in Northwestern’s community, be it academically, extracurricularly, culturally, politically, socially, or otherwise?
• Please share with us why you would like to transfer to Northwestern.

Activity Chart

TIP: The activity chart is your opportunity to be thorough about the depth and range of your involvement, whatever it may be.

The activity chart is your chance to explain any and all activities in which you’ve been involved outside of your high school classes. Provide as much detail as you can, explaining any abbreviations or acronyms that may be unique to your school. If you have held any leadership positions or received any awards, honors or distinctions, be sure to include that information on the activities chart as well. There’s no “right answer” to what kind of activities we like to see: Northwestern has over 500 different clubs and activities on campus, so we appreciate a very wide range of activities and value diversity of student interests.

As of the 2024–25 admissions cycle, Northwestern no longer offers alumni interviews as an optional part of the application process. Prospective students can still connect with our incredible alumni through new Alumni Conversations, an opportunity to learn about Northwestern via diverse alumni perspectives . In these settings, you’ll steer the discussion toward connections and topics that matter most to you: maybe you want to hear from someone who comes from the same part of the world as you do. Or you may be looking for perspectives on academic or career interests from a Northwestern graduate with expertise in those areas. Or perhaps you want to explore a shared identity or background. These one-on-one conversations are designed to enhance your college search as you seek authentic insights into a best-fit community. Head to the Alumni Conversations page to learn more.

Glimpse Video Submissions

While our application volume is such that we cannot offer interviews, students applying from US high schools are welcome to record a Glimpse video if you wish to add a more candid voice to your application. (Students applying from international high schools can skip ahead to learn about a similar opportunity through InitialView .)

Glimpse allows you to share a 60–90 second video helping us get to know you better: your values, your perspectives, your background or experiences—whatever you feel matters and may not otherwise come through fully in your other application materials. These videos are entirely optional, and students who choose not to submit a Glimpse video are at no disadvantage in the review process. For more information about Glimpse, including information about Glimpse fee waivers and collaborations with Community Based Organizations, please visit the Glimpse website here .

All Glimpse videos must be submitted by November 7  for Early Decision or January 17  for Regular Decision.

InitialView Interviews

For students applying from international high schools, Northwestern accepts interviews from InitialView . Similar to Glimpse videos, InitialView interviews are not required and applicants without one are at no disadvantage in our review process. InitialView does not review or rate the interviews. Evaluation is done only by members of the admissions committee and provides an additional source of information and perspective about your English language proficiency, personal qualities, academic interests, and potential fit for Northwestern.

All InitialView interviews for the 2024–25 cycle must be completed by November 7  for Early Decision or January 17  for Regular Decision.

Selecting Early or Regular Decision

TIP: If Northwestern is a school that, if admitted, you would attend without hesitation, applying Early Decision best positions you within a competitive applicant pool. If you’re applying for financial aid, we use the same need-based process for financial aid awards for early decision and regular decision; your aid package will be the same regardless of when you apply.

If Northwestern is a top choice, and you feel comfortable applying through the Early Decision process, you are strongly encouraged to consider applying Early Decision. We use the same review criteria for both early and regular decision. Applicants in both cycles are very competitive. Last year we enrolled approximately 50% of our incoming freshman class from early decision. To learn more, please visit our   Application Options   page.

Northwestern allocates financial aid on the basis of demonstrated financial need. Should you receive an offer of admission, your financial aid (including scholarships) will not differ whether you apply under the early decision or regular decision time frame. Please use our  Net Price Calculator  to determine your expected family contribution. Northwestern guarantees to meet 100% of the demonstrated need between your expected family contribution and the total cost of attendance.

Applications That May Require Additional Materials

Some applications may require materials in addition to an application for undergraduate admission. Below, you will find a list of requirements for Bienen School of Music, Integrated Science Program (ISP), Mathematical Methods in Social Sciences (MMSS) and School of Communication's Musical Theater Program. For questions pertaining to the content of submission of supplemental application material, please contact the corresponding office directly. 

Bienen School of Music

In addition to an application for undergraduate admission,  all   undergraduate applicants to the Bienen School of Music must submit a   Bienen School Supplement.   Submitting the Supplement ensures that the Bienen School of Music is aware that you are applying for a music major, and provides a portal to submit music application materials. Bienen School applicants also register for auditions via the Supplement.

Supplement materials:

• Music   prescreening and/or portfolio materials
• Music teacher recommendation letter (required, submit via  Bienen School Supplement )

See instructions and deadlines for submitting the supplement.   Please note that many supplement deadlines fall prior to those of the general application for admission. 

Integrated Science Program (ISP)

Students who wish to apply to the Integrated Science Program must also complete an ISP application using the  online application .

The application processes to Northwestern and to ISP are separate. Admission to Northwestern is not a guarantee of admission to the ISP and the status of your ISP application will not affect your Northwestern general acceptance decision. 

• For an updated list of required materials, please see the   ISP website .

ISP application considerations:

• Your high school preparation should include four years of mathematics, including one year of calculus, and four years of science, including chemistry and physics. Taking AP Physics and Chemistry is highly recommended.
• You should complete the study of one-variable differential and integral calculus before enrolling in ISP. If you will not complete this study in high school, we will ask you to outline how you plan to fulfill this requirement. 

See instructions and deadlines for submitting the supplement. 

Mathematical Methods in the Social Sciences (MMSS)

Students who wish to apply to the Mathematical Methods in the Social Sciences program must also complete an MMSS application using the  online application . 

The application processes to Northwestern and to MMSS are separate. Admission to Northwestern is not a guarantee of admission to the MMSS and the status of your MMSS application will not affect your Northwestern general acceptance decision. 

MMSS application considerations:

• A strong high school curriculum, including a year of calculus, is required for admission. 

School of Communication Applicants to the Music Theatre Certificate Program

Students applying to the Northwestern University School of Communication Theatre Major who are interested in pursuing admittance to the Northwestern University Music Theatre Certificate Program are encouraged to submit an   optional   Music Theatre Supplement.

Students who are interested in Music Theatre and are applying to the Bienen School of Music   do   not   need to submit this Music Theatre Supplement. Bienen School of Music Voice Majors   must   audition for the program after their first quarter of study. 

Supplement materials include:

• How do you see yourself contributing to the future of music theatre as a field?
• How can a liberal arts education in music theatre at Northwestern bring you closer to your specific goals?
• Please prepare two contrasting musical selections that you love to sing. 
• Video of a monologue, dance, instrumental skills, etc.

Visit the School of Communication for Music Theatre Supplement instructions and deadlines, including a complete list of requirements.

Special Circumstances

TIP: Use the “Additional Information” section of the Common Application to share any information that may have significantly impacted your academic performance or other involvement.

If you have experienced any special or outstanding circumstances that may have interrupted or significantly affected your academic performance in high school, you may write about those in the “additional information” section of the Common Application. If your high school counselor is aware of these circumstances, he or she may also use the Counselor Recommendation to explain this information. Should you have additional circumstances that need to be addressed, you can email a brief summary to  [email protected] .

Confidentiality and Mandated Reporting

While we treat the information in your application with utmost confidentiality, we feel it’s important to share with our applicants that all Northwestern employees, including our Undergraduate Admissions staff, are Mandated Reporters, which means we are responsible for reporting to the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance all allegations of sexual misconduct (including sexual assault, sexual exploitation, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and sexual harassment), discrimination based on a protected category, and harassment based on a protected category of which we become aware in the scope of our work for the University. We are also responsible for reporting suspected cases of child abuse and/or neglect . Should we come across any such allegations or evidence of child abuse and/or neglect in application materials, we are required to report that information to the appropriate office/entity.

Once You’ve Hit “Submit”

TIP: Once you’ve submitted your application, keep an eye on your email account associated with your Common Application or Coalition Application – that’s where we’ll send any important updates regarding your application status.

Congratulations! You’ve completed your application. Sit back and relax. Keep your eye on the email address associated with your Common Application or Coalition Application. If we are missing any of your application materials, you will receive an email from  [email protected] . Otherwise, you’ll hear from us with an admission decision by mid-December for Early Decision applicants, by the end of March for Regular Decision applicants, or by the end of June for transfer applicants.

Need to submit an update or want to check on the status of your application? Once your application has been submitted, we will email a personalized link with instructions on how to access the Applicant Status Portal, which can be used to monitor the progress of your application.

How To Get Into Northwestern Medical School (Feinberg)

• Cracking Med School Admissions Team

Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (FSM), located in the heart of Chicago, attracts talented students and faculty to its campus. Picture this: It’s a crisp fall day. The leaves are changing colors and the scenery is gorgeous. You peer through your window and get a glimpse of beautiful Lake Michigan.  You step outside into the cool air and take a short walk to your local deep-dish pizzeria for lunch. You run into your medical school friends there. And in that moment, you feel such a sense of community against an unparalleled backdrop of a vibrant city.

It has built a reputation for excellence in several areas, from research, to interdisciplinary education, to clinical training. If you are interested in how to get into Northwestern Medical School, this post is for you! This blog post serves as a high-yield resource of facts for Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. We’ll also give tips for getting accepted to FSM from an accepted applicant. Whether you’re comparing medical schools, preparing for an interview, or wanting to learn more about FSM, keep reading!

Why Choose Northwestern Medicine?

The most common reasons we’ve heard from students:

• FSM has a very strong research program. World-renowned faculty researchers are eager to take students under their wings.
• Northwestern runs on a pass/pass grading system. If you fail an exam, you simply retake it until you pass.
• Students are able to gain very early clinical experience and form longitudinal relationships with their mentors and patients.
• Northwestern’s undergraduate campus in Evanston, Illinois is very accessible. If you are interested in research or extracurriculars on the Evanston campus, you may take a short shuttle and explore the opportunities there. Also, did I mention that the Evanston campus has a private beach just for students?
• The diversity of patients that Chicago brings makes the clinical training at Northwestern outstanding and very rewarding.
• FSM’s location is a big reason that people from all over the country wish to attend here. It is located right on the lake and just a few blocks from Michigan Ave., which is the hub of all shopping and dining in Chicago.

Table of Contents

Applications.

Feinberg School of Medicine’s secondary application has several short essay questions. Read our Northwestern Medical School secondary application tips to help answer each essay question. The school wants to make sure you will be a great fit for the Northwestern community, and that you will thrive in the Midwest.

Feinberg School of Medicine Secondary Application Essay Prompts:

Essay 1) Given the distinctive educational philosophy and integrated curriculum at FSM, describe how your personal characteristics and learning style would fit the institution, and how Feinberg School of Medicine will help you achieve your professional goals. (Limit your response to 200 words)

Essay 2)  Describe the steps you take to reduce your personal stress when confronted with difficult situations. (Limit your response to 200 words)

Essay 3)  Feinberg’s mission is to impact the practice of medicine through discovery and education. With consideration of FSM’s goal to train future leaders in medicine, please describe your career plans and goals. Be as specific as your current thinking will allow. (Limit your response to 200 words)

Essay 4)  (Optional) Describe how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted your pathway to medical school. Include any academic, personal, financial or professional barriers, as well as any other relevant information. (Limit your response to 200 words)

Essay 5) (If applicable) If you have (or expect to have) a year or more between college graduation and medical school matriculation, describe your activities and/or plans.

Essay 6) (For Reapplicants)  Please also address steps taken to improve your application for medical school. (Limit your response to 200 words)

Essay 7)  The Feinberg School of Medicine values diversity as a measure of excellence. We define diversity as the totality of the characteristics and experiences of our students. We believe that a diverse student body improves the educational environment and the ability of our graduates to serve an increasingly diverse patient population. Narrative Descriptions: Everyone has their own narrative. Please provide more detail about how your experiences would enrich the Northwestern community. (Limit your response to 200 words)

The Feinberg School of Medicine application essay prompts have changed each year. Take a look at all the Northwestern Medical School secondary application essay prompts from 2014 . 

If you have questions about your Northwestern secondary application, email us at [email protected] or contact us .

NEED HELP WITH EDITING YOUR NORTHWESTERN SECONDARY ESSAYS?

Get the Cracking Med School Admissions team’s expertise through our  secondary essay editing packages.  If you have questions, email us at [email protected] or contact us .

Northwestern Medical School Interview Format

In previous years, FSM has held a mixture of one-on-one interviews and group interviews. During the 2020-2021 application cycle, students were asked to complete three one-on-one interviews, generally consisting of one medical student and two faculty members. One of the interviews is open-file, while the other two are either partially closed-file, or completely closed-file. FSM’s interview format in the coming years may depend on whether interviews are held virtually or in person.

Want to learn more about how to prepare for your Northwestern Medical School interview?

Read our 3 popular medical school interview blog posts here:

• How to Prepare for Medical School Interviews
• 4 Common Medical School Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
• How To Answer Tell Me About Yourself and Why Medicine?

The Cracking Med School Admissions team has helped several students get accepted to Feinberg School of Medicine and ace their interviews! Make sure to contact us and get our help.

download your interview guide

If you are prepared, the interview gives you the perfect opportunity to standout and shine by sharing with people what you are passionate about.

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Year Applying to Med School *
• Best Email *
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Northwestern Medical School Acceptance Rate

Northwestern university school of medicine admissions statistics:.

• Northwestern Medical School Median GPA: 3.92
• Northwestern Medical School Median MCAT: 520 (130 Chemical and Physical/ 129 Critical Analysis and Reasoning/ 130 Biology and Biochemistry/ 131 Psychology and Sociology)

How did Northwestern Medical School Students Do on Their USMLE Step Exams?

• Average Feinberg Medical School USMLE Step 1 Score: 240
• Average Feinberg Medical School USMLE Step 2 Score: 253

Source: U.S. News Graduate School Rankings 2021

5 Feinberg Application Tips

How to get into northwestern medical school #1:.

• FSM is research-heavy. While research is not required for an acceptance, your passion for scientific inquiry should shine through in your secondary essays and interviews.

How to get into

Northwestern medical school #2:.

• Northwestern is looking for students who have shown to be resilient. Some students think that this means that you must have an extreme childhood adversity, or something of the like. This is not necessary by any means. Think of a time when you had to bounce back from a difficult situation, and exemplify that in your application.

Northwestern Medical School #3:

• Emphasize what you can bring to the table in terms of diversity of thoughts, interests, and background. Northwestern prides itself on having an interesting student body, so show that you can contribute to that.

Northwestern Medical School Tip #4:

• Do not fall into the trap of doing clinical experiences for the sake of putting hours on your application. You should be able to discuss how you learned and grew from these experiences. Did you learn about compassion and patient advocacy? Did you learn about healthcare disparities?

How to get into Northwestern Medical School Tip #5:

• Northwestern admires students who have shown an interest in education. If it is true to you, weave that into your application and interviews. Of course, don’t pretend that you’re interested if that is not genuine. They can tell!

Your medical school application Coaches, Mentors, & Cheerleaders

We Personally Advise Every Student We Work With

Rachel Rizal, M.D.

Changing the trajectory of people’s lives.

Undergraduate Princeton University

Medical School Stanford School of Medicine

Residency Harvard, Emergency Medicine

Awards & Scholarships Fulbright Scholar USA Today Academic First Team Tylenol Scholarship

Rishi Mediratta, M.D., M.Sc., M.A.

Advising students to attend their dream schools.

Undergraduate Johns Hopkins University

Residency Stanford, Pediatrics

Awards & Scholarships Marshall Scholar Tylenol Scholarship Global Health Scholar

Each year, the Cracking Med School Admissions team helps students get accepted to top medical schools. We can help you get accepted! Contact us today.

The Insider’s View on Feinberg School of Medicine's Preclinical years-

How to get into northwestern medical school tip – know the curriculum:, feinberg school of medicine curriculum: overview .

Northwestern’s curriculum is very intentional in creating well-rounded, inquiry-driven, inclusive physicians. It is a traditional two-year pre-clinical and two-year clinical curriculum. The curriculum is broken up into three phases, while weaving in curricular components (known as threads) to strengthen the medical education. These 5 threads are:

• Healthcare Quality and Patient Safety
• Health Equity and Advocacy
• Lifestyle Medicine
• Medical Decision Making
• Teamwork and Leadership

There are two very unique programs that span over the course of four years:

1) Area of Scholarly Concentration (AOSC) is a required research program by which students are able to come up with a unique project and longitudinally work with a research mentor. Students are able to present posters at conferences and often get first-author publications.

2) Education-Centered Medical Home (ECMH) allows students to gain early clinical skills with preceptors that stick with them for the entire four years. Aside from learning clinical procedures, students also are taught about important issues such as medical ethics and the social determinants of health.

The three phases span the duration of the four years. Below are some highlights from each phase.

Pre-clinical curriculum:

• Lasts 20 months
• The first block lays a foundation of basic science, including general biochemistry, pharmacology, and histology.
• The subsequent block is broken up into organ system modules, where students explore physiology in more depth.
• Synthesis Application Modules (SAM) are week-long courses that allow students to integrate and reinforce their knowledge over their four years
• Lectures are supplemented with problem-based learning, team-based learning, and simulations.

For more details about the Northwestern University Feinberg Curriculum, visit:  https://www.feinberg.northwestern.edu/md-education/curriculum/phases/index.html

Combined Degrees

FSM offers combined degrees for those interested in pursuing another field of interest. The MD/MBA program is especially popular, as students are able to take business courses at the world-renowned Kellogg School of Management. 

What students are saying about Feinberg School of Medicine

The insider’s view on northwestern medical school's clinical years.

Feinberg School of Medicine Clinical Curriculum :

Feinberg’s clinical curriculum starts with Phase 2.

• Students continue to participate in AOSC, ECMH, and SAM
• Northwestern gives students the chance to partake in early clinical electives in this phase, which is not seen at many medical schools. This provides a valuable opportunity to explore areas of personal interest before submitting residency applications in your fourth year.
• Students may also choose to take selectives, which are two-week Pass/No Pass experiences in a particular specialty.
• Emergency Medicine
• Critical Care
• Physical Medicine
• Sub-internships
• Teaching Selective: Students are provided with the opportunity to take a Teaching Selective, where one may develop strong skills in education and communication by teaching first- and second-year classes. Students then meet with faculty and residents to reflect on the teaching experience and make room for improvement.
• Capstone Module: During this phase, students wrap up with a Capstone module, where they essentially practice being a doctor. Feinberg allots a couple of weeks for students to join into groups based on their chosen specialty and practice skills such as being on-call or working during a medical emergency. The purpose is to ease the transition between medical school and residency.

Common Clinical Rotation Sites:

• Northwestern Memorial Hospital (NMH)
• Lurie Children’s Hospital
• Jesse Brown VA
• John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County
• Prentice Women’s Hospital

What students are saying about clinical rotations at Feinberg

Housing & social life.

Northwestern is located in the Streeterville neighborhood of Chicago along Lake Michigan. While the area can be a little pricey, FSM provides great resources for finding housing and roommates to reduce the cost.

Here are some popular apartment buildings close to campus:

420 E Ohio Apartments: https://www.420aptschicago.com/

Atwater Apartments: https://www.liveatwaterchicago.com/

Axis Apartments: https://axis.groupfox.com/

Cityfront Place: https://www.cityfrontchicago.com/cityfront-place-chicago-il/

Lake Shore Plaza: https://www.lakeshoreplaza.com/

McClurg Court: https://www.mcclurgcourt.com/

The Grand Ohio: https://www.urbanrealestate.com/chicago/Streeterville/211-E-Ohio/profile

How do students get around?

FSM students don’t necessarily need cars. Chicago is a centralized city, and the public transportation is fantastic. Not to mention, FSM provides all of its students with free public transit passes.

What is the student life like?

Work hard, play hard! Students love to get involved in non-academic activities in their free time. Check out this video from Northwestern’s comedy group, “In Vivo”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQiZhy1Hf9A&ab_channel=FSMInVivo

FSM students are happy! They even made this music video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLAQPC3G7hc&ab_channel=FSMInVivo

Northwestern organizes “colleges.” It’s essentially like the Harry Potter houses. Students are sorted into colleges during their first year and stick with those friends for the duration of their medical school careers. The year culminates with the colleges competing in a college cup, which gets excitingly competitive and is such a blast.

Feinberg School of Medicine Colleges:

While medical school is undoubtedly a large investment, Feinberg School of Medicine does what it can to alleviate that financial burden. Merit scholarships are available on top of need-based financial aid.

Financial Considerations:

• Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Tuition and Fees: ~$63,000 + ~$30,000 room, board, health insurance
• Average indebtedness of graduates: ~$198,000

Cracking Med School Admissions Resources

Here are useful Cracking Med School Admissions resources:

• How To Write A Personal Statement For Medical School
• Download Cracking Med School Admission’s FREE AMCAS Activities Workbook
• Premed Timeline: Planning For Medical School Applications

Read our other popular school blogs here:

• How To Get Into UCLA Medical School: Application Tips
• UC Irvine Medical School Admissions: Insider’s Perspective to Get Accepted
• Medical Schools in California: How to Get Accepted & School Profiles

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Richard Kind Is Still Waiting for His Big Break

Amazingly prolific and beloved by Hollywood royalty, the actor has a self-image that belies his status and achievements. “I just work,” he said.

Credit... Danielle Amy for The New York Times

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By Esther Zuckerman

• Aug. 16, 2024

In a scene from the most recent season of the Netflix series “Girls5eva,” the character actor Richard Kind appears as a sort of guardian angel for one of the heroines, a member of a pop girl group. His advice to her: Don’t try to make it big. The middle is where you want to be.

“I’ve spent the past 40 years striking the perfect balance between constantly working and never getting bugged in a deli,” he says.

That’s not exactly true. During a recent lunch — not at a deli but rather at an upscale Mediterranean restaurant on the Upper West Side — a woman walked up and recalled something she had seen him in (a play in the Hamptons; she didn’t remember which one) and asked what he was doing next. He told her he was in the coming season of the Hulu mystery comedy “Only Murders in the Building.”

He said this kind of thing happened all the time. Beloved by some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, Kind himself is down-to-earth and approachable. Sitting at a table trying to scoop the last bit of fruit out of his raspberry lemonade, he could have been any other hard-working New Yorker who would never let a quality bite go to waste. But his face, with its hangdog expressions, and his aggressively nasal voice were unmistakable.

Put another way, he is a consummate Everyman who is also, if you can pardon the expression, one of a kind. He specializes in the kinds of dads or colleagues many of us know well — boisterous, sometimes desperate men who are quick to anger and even quicker to flop-sweat. Offscreen, he has a workaday approach to his job that belies the glamour of his profession, and he talks often about the hardships of being a working actor even though he is constantly on television.

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Did anyone get into northwestern only writing one optional response or less? College apps ^^

So I have procrastinated severely on my college apps and am working thru northwestern’s. There’s the community one, and 1 or more optional prompts. But idk if they’re optional, I was going to do one but maybe I should do two??

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