Caltech supplemental application essays
I am aware of that. I phrased my question badly, what I meant to ask was does caltech like creative essays or do they prefer essays that are straight to the point like "I show my interest in science through X,Y,Z (though much better written)
I am aware of that. I phrased my question badly, what I meant to ask was does caltech like creative essays or do they prefer essays that are straight to the point like "I show my interest in science through X,Y,Z (though much better written)
You don’t need to use the same main essay for all common app schools. You can write a different one for Caltech and use the BMX biking one for the question you highlight. Then for other schools you can use the BMX essay for the main essay. Just double and triple check that you swapped things out correctly before hitting submit.
Read on for more detailed advice on your Caltech supplemental essays!
Caltech, like most other colleges, wants to know more about you through your essays. However, unlike most other colleges, it really wants to know your passion for STEM and where that passion came from. Your BMX essay may be very interesting but it’s unlikely to serve that purpose. So I agree with the other posters that you should use your BMX essay as a supplemental essay and write a new main/Common App essay for Caltech.
If by abstract you mean fluff, I can’t see any college wanting to read an essay like that. Just add some detail and/or background information to fully explain the topic, and let it show yourself. That’s what all college admissions officers are looking for. (the good ones at least)
I’ve also learned there’s a fine line between logic and emotion. I try not to take personally the things my grandfather says in an argument. Just because he doesn’t think taking Advil is the better solution doesn’t mean he thinks I’m stupid. If I take it that way, we begin to move away from what the argument really was about—the facts.
If by abstract you mean fluff, I can’t see any college wanting to read an essay like that. Just add some detail and/or background information to fully explain the topic, and let it show yourself. That’s what all college admissions officers are looking for. (the good ones at least)
Caltech supplemental essays 2021-2022
I agree, you may want to swap. The “what brings you joy?” essay is important - it’s a chance to show a different side of your personality. If you’re able to express your love of BMX biking this is the place to do it.
Caltech supplemental essays 2021-2022
At Caltech, we investigate some of the most challenging, fundamental problems in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Identify and describe two STEM-related experiences from your high school years, either in or out of the classroom, and tell us how and why they activated your curiosity. What about them made you want to learn more and explore further? Then two required essays…STEM experience/activity (200 words) and STEM experience/activity (200 words)
Caltech supplemental essays 2021-2022
The Power of a Strong Essay
A well-crafted essay can distinguish you from other applicants by illustrating your depth of curiosity, creativity, and resilience. Use each prompt as a space to reveal how you think, solve problems, and connect with others. Show Caltech that you are not only prepared for its rigorous STEM challenges but also enthusiastic about the collaborative and exploratory spirit that defines its community.
Caltech supplemental essays 2021-2022
Be willing to be wrong. We can learn as much from our failures as we do from our successes. In fact, sometimes, it says more about us when we’re willing to be vulnerable enough to admit we’re wrong—or, at least, not entirely right. This student echoes that point, acknowledging it “isn’t about winning.” Instead, having viewpoints that are different from those he respects and admires helped him learn about balancing logic and emotion as well as practice the art of listening.
How to Write the Caltech Supplemental Essays 2024-2025
The first essay asks you share your academic passion (or passions), and how you discovered them. Many colleges understand that students change their majors throughout the course of their careers, and Caltech doesn’t want you to have to choose a major until you’re a sophomore. But they still want you to have a good idea of what you want to focus on and why it matters to you.
Caltech Supplemental Essay Prompts
This prompt is the perfect place to be playful—no hobby is too big or too small! This is an opportunity to step away from writing about pure academics, and it is a great way to humanize yourself and show Caltech the nuances that make up who you are. Write about something that you haven’t talked about yet in your application, and express why this interest or hobby is so meaningful to you.