So You Wanna Be an Eagle? Cracking the Code of the Boston College Supplemental Essays
Ah, Boston College. Home of the Screaming Eagles (though seriously, how intimidating can a screaming eagle be?), the ever-present maroon and gold, and... those dreaded supplemental essays.
Look, we've all been there. You've spent months crafting the perfect college application, your GPA is gleaming, your extracurriculars are shouting "Look at me, I'm well-rounded!", but then BC hits you with, "Hey there, superstar, just write us another essay real quick. NBD."
But fear not, future Eagle! This guide will be your wingman (or wingwoman, we're equal opportunity punsters here) through the wild world of BC's supplemental essays.
The Lowdown: What You Need to Know
- There's only one, but you get to choose the flavor! Unlike some colleges that like to pile on the essays, BC offers a single supplemental essay with five different prompts. You get to pick the one that best lets you showcase your awesomeness.
- Think "Show, Don't Tell." These essays aren't about listing your achievements (your transcript already does that). They want a story! An anecdote, a challenge you overcame, a moment that defines you.
- Be Yourself (but the most awesome version of yourself). Admissions officers are reading thousands of essays. Make yours stand out with your unique voice and personality. Don't be afraid to be a little quirky (unless your quirk is stapling glitter to everything).
Choosing Your Prompt: A Choose-Your-Own-Adventure for Future Eagles!
Option 1: The Bookworm Whisperer
This prompt asks you to recommend a book that has impacted you. Think of it as your chance to geek out about your favorite novel and show how it reflects who you are. Bonus points if you can somehow tie it back to the Jesuit values of BC (think about themes of service, discernment, or finding your purpose).
Option 2: The Belief Bender
Ever had a fundamental belief challenged? This prompt is your chance to delve into that experience. Did a volunteer trip abroad change your perspective on poverty? Did a debate class shake your stance on a controversial issue? Show how you grew and learned from the experience.
Option 3: The Identity Excavator
This prompt is all about you, glorious you! What experiences or aspects of your identity have shaped who you are? Are you a first-generation college student? A competitive dancer? A champion cat nap taker? Tell your story and how it will contribute to the vibrant BC community.
Option 4: The Global Citizen
Feeling worldly? This prompt asks you to discuss a global issue you care about and how you'd approach it with a BC education. Are you passionate about environmental sustainability? Peacebuilding in conflict zones? Show your commitment to making a difference and how BC can equip you with the tools to do so.
Option 5: The Human-Centered Engineer (For Engineering Applicants Only)
This prompt is specifically for aspiring Human-Centered Engineering majors. Here, you get to showcase your understanding of the field and your passion for designing technology that benefits society.
Remember: Whichever prompt you choose, BE SPECIFIC! Don't just say you care about climate change. Talk about a specific initiative you're involved in or a solution you'd like to explore.
How to Slay Those Supplemental Essays:
1. How to Choose a Prompt?
Pick the one that sparks the most excitement! It should allow you to showcase your strengths and passions authentically.
2. How Long Should They Be?
BC asks for 400 words, but quality over quantity always wins.
3. Do I Need Perfect Grammar?
While strong writing is important, a unique voice and a genuine story will trump perfect grammar every time.
4. Should I Mention Boston College Specifically?
It can't hurt! Do some research on BC's academic programs, resources, or Jesuit values and see how they align with your goals.
5. When's the Deadline?
Deadlines vary, so check the BC application portal to be sure. Don't procrastinate – that's what summer was invented for (besides, of course, perfecting your napping skills).
So there you have it, future Eagles! With these tips and a healthy dose of your own personality, you'll be writing supplemental essays that soar above the rest. Now get out there and show BC why