Here is the fifth of the Harvard essays examples:
Additionally, consider how you intend to contribute to your community, society, or industry with the education and experiences you gain. Whether you aim to become a leader in your profession, an innovator addressing global challenges, or a dedicated public servant, articulate how Harvard will be the foundation for your ambitions and how you will use your education to make a meaningful impact.
Don’t just list things you like – show us how those things make you you. For example, there are infinite reasons why you might love knitting. Maybe you love knitting because it reminds you of your grandmother, who you lived with for the first 10 years of your life and who taught you how to knit, sew, cook, and care for yourself. Or maybe you love knitting because you’re a fiction writer and the methodical knitting process helps you come up with your best ideas. Isn’t it amazing how many distinct, vivid details can emerge from the simple fact of liking to knit? These are the kinds of details that will help your future roommate (and the admissions officers) get to know you.
The Harvard admissions team wants to get to know you. Your roommate essay should sound like you – not some fictional ideal Harvard student. In fact, it should sound so much like you that a friend or family member could read twelve different roommate essays and easily pick out which one is yours.
Looking to make your Harvard supplemental essays stand out?
Consider using a unique structure to get your point across in a memorable, engaging way. For example, if you’re a filmmaker, you could write this essay in the style of a movie trailer voiceover. Don’t be afraid of stylistic experimentation, especially if that experimentation showcases something important about who you are. As long as this essay conveys meaningful information about you, you’ve accomplished the goal of the prompt.
The scope of this prompt is intentionally broad, allowing students to share about a variety of different types of experiences outside of the classroom. As you choose an experience to write about, authenticity is key. Don’t write about an extracurricular simply because you think Harvard will find it impressive! You should choose to share a story that allows you to showcase qualities, values, and experiences that are important to you. Explain what the activity or responsibility entails and why it holds significance for you. While you should aim to provide enough context to help the Harvard admissions committee understand the scope of your involvement, remember to focus primarily on the values and characteristics you developed as a result of the experience.
“I aim to become a leading researcher in sustainable energy solutions, driving innovations that combat climate change. Harvard’s robust environmental science program, renowned faculty like Professor John Doe, and state-of-the-art research facilities will give me the knowledge and experience to pioneer new energy solutions. The collaborative environment and access to diverse perspectives at Harvard will also enhance my ability to develop comprehensive strategies for real-world applications. With Harvard’s unparalleled resources and my dedication, I am confident that I can contribute significantly to sustainable energy, making a lasting impact on global environmental efforts.”
The scope of this prompt is intentionally broad, allowing students to share about a variety of different types of experiences outside of the classroom. As you choose an experience to write about, authenticity is key. Don’t write about an extracurricular simply because you think Harvard will find it impressive! You should choose to share a story that allows you to showcase qualities, values, and experiences that are important to you. Explain what the activity or responsibility entails and why it holds significance for you. While you should aim to provide enough context to help the Harvard admissions committee understand the scope of your involvement, remember to focus primarily on the values and characteristics you developed as a result of the experience.
And now, here are your Harvard Additional Essay Prompts:
Many applicants have to overcome incredible odds to apply to Harvard. The admissions officers will appreciate the fact that you fought hard to get to this point. They will be impressed by your grit, determination, and drive. While it’s important to share the story of your struggle, make sure you don’t dwell on the negatives or on things that happened to you. Instead, write an essay that shows your strength of character and determination, and make sure it touches on things you made happen.
What are Harvard's Essay Prompts?
The Testing section is where you'll enter your self-reported scores for any standardized tests that you've taken and wish to report to colleges. However, remember that if you self-report your SAT or ACT test scores and you are admitted and choose to enroll at Harvard, you'll be required to submit your official score reports from the College Board or ACT. View more information on our standardized testing requirements on our Application Requirements page.
How to Answer Harvard's Essay Prompts
In this essay, you will explain how your Harvard education will help you achieve your post-graduation goals. The key here is to provide as much detail and specificity as possible. Harvard knows how great their school is, so you can skip the generalizations (“I know I will benefit from attending a prestigious institution such as Harvard”) and go straight to the specifics.
Of all Harvard essay prompts, this one is by far the most unique.
When thinking about the experiences that have contributed to your growth and development, reflect on the extracurricular activities, employment experiences, and family responsibilities you’ve had throughout your life. How have these experiences shaped your values, work ethic, and interpersonal skills, and how have they prepared you for future challenges? How do these experiences translate into your future at Harvard, and why do you think Harvard is the best place to continue growing on your intellectual, personal, and professional path?
Roommate Harvard University Essay Examples
This prompt necessitates thorough consideration of your future aspirations and a clear connection to what Harvard offers—it is crucial to think beyond the prestige of the degree to consider the tangible ways in which Harvard’s offerings align with your future aspirations. Note that specificity is key—your response should point to both clear goals for your future, as well as specific ways in which Harvard will help you achieve them.