Cornell University is a prestigious Ivy League institution renowned for its academic excellence, professional growth opportunities, vibrant student life, and diverse community.

With so many opportunities for intellectual growth, professional networking, and personal development, it’s no surprise that Cornell University has so much competition regarding college admissions. In fact, from 2014 to 2023, the number of applications has soared to 67,846 from 43,037, while the acceptances have consistently decreased each year. So, how do you stand out?

Let’s look at Mia, a high school senior who dreamed of being admitted to Cornell. She had a solid academic standing but wanted to use her essays to help showcase why she was the perfect fit for Cornell. 

She took her time brainstorming and ideation and, ultimately, wrote heartfelt essays about her multicultural upbringing and volunteer work abroad, showcasing her passion for inclusivity and global health. Her genuine reflections and alignment with Cornell’s values impressed the admissions committee. Mia was thrilled to receive her acceptance letter to Cornell University, knowing her authentic story had made all the difference.

Want to be more like Mia?

We’re here to help. Today, we’re going to take an opportunity to dissect the Cornell University supplemental essays and provide you with some insights and opportunities to help write your strongest pieces possible for admission. Before we begin, you might wonder why there is so much emphasis on the essay pieces for the Cornell application.

Why Are the Cornell supplemental essays so important?

The Cornell supplemental essays are one of your application’s most exciting and personal aspects. These essays provide a unique opportunity to showcase your personality, achievements, and fit for Cornell. Unlike other parts of your application, these essays offer admissions officers deeper insights into who you are beyond your grades and test scores. This is your chance to show them your passions, motivations, and how you will contribute to the Cornell community!

Now, let’s break down each of the Cornell supplemental essay prompts and how to tackle them.

Essay Prompt for All Applicants:

When applying, each student must answer an overarching prompt. It’s important to think critically about approaching this based on your academic, professional, and social experiences, as your responses will be evaluated and ultimately accepted or rejected based on the entire applicant pool.

Prompt:

In the aftermath of the U.S. Civil War, Ezra Cornell wrote, ‘I would found an institution where any person can find instruction in any study.’ For over 150 years, Cornell University has remained deeply committed to Ezra’s vision. Explain how your life experiences will help inform your contributions to a learning community devoted to ‘… any person … any study.’ We encourage you to think broadly about your life experiences, including how local (e.g., family, school, neighborhood) or global communities you’ve been part of have helped shape your perspective. (350-word limit)

Breakdown:

Cornell University was established as a beacon of thought leadership and innovation across all fields of study. This prompt asks you to explain how your life experiences will inform your contributions to this incredible learning community dedicated to “… any person … any study.” 

This is your opportunity to reflect on the personal interests and experiences that make you a strong candidate for Cornell. Remember, you have only 350 words to convey your experiences, so make sure you make each word count!

Brainstorming Questions:

• Do you have any memorable projects, experiences, or organizations that have shaped you as a person?
• How have local or global communities you’ve been part of shaped your perspective and driven you to apply to Cornell?
• How did these experiences change your perspectives or help you find your passion, and how has that shaped your goals and aspirations?
• How can you use these experiences to positively impact Cornell University’s academic, professional, and student community?
• Why is Cornell the right place for you to pursue your goals?

Example Response:

“Growing up in a multicultural neighborhood in Oakland, California as a teenager immersed me in a rich tapestry of languages, traditions, and viewpoints. My half-Portuguese family’s emphasis on education and respect for all cultures instilled in me the importance of inclusivity from a young age. I founded a diversity club in high school to celebrate different family histories through events, discussions, and community service projects. Leading this club taught me the value of embracing diverse perspectives and working collaboratively to foster a culturally inclusive environment.

Last year as a junior in high school, my global experiences further shaped my worldview. Volunteering with the renowned international health organization UNICEF exposed me to the challenges and strengths of communities worldwide. I worked alongside a team from various countries, addressing issues such as clean water access and public health education. These interactions broadened my understanding of global issues and underscored the importance of diverse perspectives in finding innovative solutions.”

College-Specific Prompts

The second part of the Cornell Supplemental essay involves college-specific questions that pertain to certain subsects of the applicant pool, depending on the major being applied for. Here’s what you need to know to tackle these successfully!

We’ve compiled all the college-specific essay questions for you. While not all may apply to you, each tip offers valuable insights and strategies to help support you during the brainstorming and idea development process, so if you have extra time to read, we recommend it.

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Required Prompt: 

Why are you drawn to studying the major you have selected? Please discuss how your interests and related experiences have influenced your choice. How will an education from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at Cornell University specifically support your learning, growth, and pursuit of your goals? (650-word limit) 

Breakdown:

To approach this prompt effectively, you need to structure your essay in a way that clearly articulates your passion for your chosen major, the experiences that have influenced your decision, and how Cornell’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) will help you achieve your goals.

Brainstorming Questions:

• What sparked your interest in the major? Was it a particular event, a book, a class, or a personal experience?
• What are your academic and professional goals for the next few years? How can studying at Cornell help make these a possibility?
• How do you hope to make a difference in your field? How do you plan to contribute to the broader community through your work?
• What core values and beliefs drive your passion for this field? How do these align with the mission and values of CALS at Cornell?
• Why is CALS the right place for you to pursue your goals?

Example Response: 

“I spent many hours in my grandfather’s greenhouse as a child, where I became fascinated by the combination of science and nature. This early exposure ignited my lifelong passion for plant sciences. An internship at a local botanical garden allowed me to work alongside horticulture experts, where I honed my skills in plant propagation and gained insights into conservation efforts. Cornell’s CALS provides exceptional opportunities in plant sciences, including the cutting-edge research conducted at the Boyce Thompson Institute. I am particularly thrilled about the Plant Science Research Laboratory, which aligns with my interests. I believe Cornell’s CALS is the perfect place to pursue my passion for plant sciences, and with the support of world-class faculty and resources, I am confident that I will achieve my goals and make meaningful contributions to the field.”

Additional CALS Prompts: 

Optional 1.: At Cornell CALS, we aim to leave the world better than we found it, so we seek out those who are not simply driven to master their discipline but who are also passionate about doing so to serve the public good. Please elaborate on an experience where you had a meaningful impact on people, a community, and/or an environment of importance to you. (200-word limit)

Optional 2. : Cornell CALS is dedicated to purpose-driven study of the agricultural, life, environmental, and social sciences and welcomes students with interests that span a wide variety of disciplines. Given our agricultural history and commitment to educating the next generation of agriculturalists, please share if you have a background or interest in agriculture, regardless of your intended major. An “agricultural entity” for this question is cultivating soil, growing crops, and raising livestock (e.g., farm, ranch, greenhouse, vineyard, etc.). 

Select all that apply:

• My parent/guardian(s) ‘s primary source of income is ownership of or employment by an agricultural entity.
• My extended family owns or operates an agricultural entity.
• I have experience working in an agricultural entity.
• I have interest in pursuing a career in an agricultural entity.                                           

Please feel free to share additional details (optional). (100-word limit)

Breakdown:

Optional Prompt 1: To effectively approach this prompt, focus on a specific experience where you significantly impacted your local community or the broader globe through mastery of a concept or practice within the agricultural field. This can be at a personal level, environmentally, within your local community, or if you’ve helped across borders! Given the 200-word limit, be concise yet detailed, emphasizing your actions, the effect on others, and how this experience reflects your passion for serving the public good through improving agriculture.

Optional Prompt 2: This question is perfect if you or a family member has been involved in the agricultural sector or are interested in pursuing a career. Since you have a limit of 100 words, focus on personal anecdotes to illustrate your experience or the lessons learned from those involved in agriculture. If space permits, you can also link this to what you hope to gain from your studies at Cornell’s CALS and how you will use it to impact the world positively.

Example Response:

Prompt 1: “Last summer, I initiated a project to convert a vacant urban lot into a community garden. As the coordinator, I organized a team of volunteers, secured funding, and collaborated with local businesses for resources. We cleared the lot, planted vegetables, and installed a sustainable irrigation system. The garden provided fresh produce to local families, served as an educational space for children, and became a gathering place for the community. Witnessing the joy and gratitude of the residents reinforced my commitment to environmental stewardship and community development. This experience aligns perfectly with CALS’s mission of serving the public good, and I am eager to contribute to innovative, sustainable solutions at Cornell.”

Prompt 2: “Growing up on my family’s farm, I deeply appreciated agriculture. From a young age, I was involved in various tasks, from planting seeds to harvesting crops and caring for livestock. This hands-on experience taught me the importance of sustainable farming practices and the impact of agriculture on our environment and community. My interest in agriculture was further fueled by participating in 4-H, where I led crop rotation and soil conservation projects. These experiences have inspired me to pursue a career in sustainable agriculture. At Cornell CALS, I look forward to deepening my knowledge through cutting-edge research and contributing to advancing sustainable farming techniques.”

College of Architecture, Art, and Planning

How do your interests directly connect with your intended major at the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning (AAP)? Why architecture (B.Arch), art (BFA), or urban and regional studies (URS)? B. Arch applicants, please provide an example of how a creative project or passion sparks your motivation to pursue a 5-year professional degree program. BFA applicants may want to consider how they could integrate a range of interests and available resources at Cornell into a coherent art practice. URS students may want to emphasize their enthusiasm and depth of interest in the study of urban and regional issues. (650 word limit)

Breakdown:

This prompt asks students to articulate how their interests align with their intended major within the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning (AAP) at Cornell University. Addressing these points effectively will demonstrate to admissions officers that you are genuinely passionate about your chosen field. Show that you have invested time and energy into nurturing this interest and are eager to take full advantage of Cornell’s incredible resources. You can make a compelling case for admission to Cornell University by articulating your commitment and enthusiasm.

Brainstorming Questions:

• How do your interests connect with your intended major within the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning?
• Why did you choose architecture, art, or urban and regional studies?
• If you’re an architecture student, what’s an example of how a creative project/passion sparked your interest in pursuing the 5-year program?
• If you’re an art student, how can you use Cornell’s resources to help support your art development goals and aspirations?
• Why are you enthusiastic about the subject if you’re an urban and regional studies major? What makes you want to pursue this at a higher level?

Example Response:

“Growing up, I spent countless hours sketching buildings and designing imaginary cities. This passion led me to enroll in art and design courses throughout high school, where I honed my skills in drawing, model-making, and digital design. I also joined the school’s architecture club, which allowed me to work on community projects, such as designing a playground for a local park. These experiences deepened my love for architecture and solidified my decision to pursue it as a career.”

College of Arts & Sciences

At the College of Arts and Sciences, curiosity will be your guide. Discuss how your passion for learning is shaping your academic journey, and what areas of study or majors excite you and why. Your response should convey how your interests align with the College, and how you would take advantage of the opportunities and curriculum in Arts and Sciences. (650 word limit)

Breakdown:

Two questions are being asked of you:

• Discuss how your passion for learning is shaping your academic journey
• What areas of study or majors excite you and why

These are great opportunities to explore a deep interest in something – do you have a phase of nature you’ve been drawn to and have dedicated time to researching? Do you have a particular area of study you’ve explored at a higher level, whether within a course inside or outside of school? Do you have supplementary classes you’ve been exploring outside of your normal course load? How do they all tie into your interest in Arts and Sciences? Being able to connect your personal experiences to why you believe the College of Arts and Sciences is the right fit for you will show admissions officers you’re the right fit for their admissions and that you’ll make the most of your time at the university, so make it count!

Example Response:

“My fascination with the natural world began in childhood, sparked by countless hours spent in my grandmother’s garden. As I observed the intricate relationships between plants, insects, and soil, I became captivated by the complexity of ecological systems. This early interest led me to excel in high school biology and environmental science courses, where I researched local ecosystems and participated in field studies. I am particularly drawn to Cornell’s Ecology and Evolutionary Biology program because it offers a comprehensive curriculum integrating fieldwork, laboratory research, and theoretical study. The opportunity to collaborate with leading researchers and access Cornell’s extensive natural areas will allow me to deepen my understanding of biodiversity and conservation.”

Cornell Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy

Why are you drawn to studying public policy? Drawing on your experiences, tell us about why you are interested in your chosen major and how attending the Brooks School will help you achieve your life goals. (650 word limit)

Breakdown:

For this prompt from Cornell, they are asking students to explain their motivation for studying public policy and how attending the Brooks School specifically will contribute to achieving their life goals. This is an excellent chance to link your passion for a particular subject to how studying at the Brooks School will enable you to drive change within your community or on a larger scale. What aspects of Cornell are you looking forward to utilizing to help you become an effective public policy advocate? What classes are you eager to study during your time at Cornell, and how will you use these opportunities to educate yourself further or lay the foundations for your future career or endeavors?

Brainstorming Questions:

• Why are you interested in studying public policy? 
• Have you been influenced by any experiences, internships, organizations, or individuals? 
• Have you watched any relevant videos or focused on specific topics that have sparked your interest? 

Example Response:

“Growing up in a small town affected by economic decline, I witnessed firsthand the impact of public policy on communities. When our local factory closed, neighbors struggled with job loss, and families were torn apart by financial stress. This ignited my passion for understanding and shaping policies to prevent hardships and promote sustainable development.”

“Internship: During my internship with [Organization], I worked on [Project], analyzing the impact of local housing policies on low-income families. This experience taught me [Key Learning], reinforcing my desire to work in public policy.

Coursework: In my [Relevant Course] class, I conducted research on [Specific Topic], which deepened my understanding of [Aspect of Public Policy] and solidified my commitment to this field.”

My long-term goal is to become a policy advisor focused on economic development and social equity. Public policy is ideal for me to address systemic issues and drive positive change. By influencing policy decisions, I aim to create opportunities and improve the quality of life for marginalized communities.”

Cornell SC Johnson College of Business

What kind of a business student are you? Using your personal, academic, or volunteer/work experiences, describe the topics or issues that you care about and why they are important to you. Your response should convey how your interests align with the school to which you are applying within the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business (Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management or the Peter and Stephanie Nolan School of Hotel Administration). (650 word limit)

Breakdown:

When looking at this prompt, you’re asked why you have found an interest in business, but it leads with an interesting question: What kind of business student are you? Given the field’s broad scope, you can reflect on your personality and goals and tie them into how you’ve transferred them into real-life practices. Each of us within the business realm has different ideas, goals, interests, and passions, so how do you hope to explore them while studying at Cornell?

Brainstorming Questions:

1. What kind of business student are you? Are you analytical, creative, entrepreneurial, or strategic?
2. How do you approach problems or challenges in a business context?
3. Have you had any personal experiences that sparked your interest in business?
4. Have you participated in any internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer activities related to business? What skills or insights did you gain from these experiences?
5. What specific topics or issues in business are you passionate about? (e.g., sustainability, corporate social responsibility, entrepreneurship, finance, marketing) How will you further your studies through the SC Johnson College of Business?
6. Why do these issues matter to you personally? What makes them a topic to pursue at Cornell?
7. What programs, courses, or extracurricular activities at Cornell align with your interests?

Example Response:

“From a young age, I’ve been captivated by the dynamics of entrepreneurship and the art of innovation. Growing up in a family of small business owners, I witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs of running a business. This exposure ignited my passion for entrepreneurship and instilled a relentless drive to create and innovate.

At Cornell, I am eager to explore my entrepreneurial spirit further and expand my horizons through hands-on experiences and collaborative projects. The Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management offers a unique platform to immerse myself in a diverse community of like-minded individuals and industry experts. I am particularly drawn to Cornell’s emphasis on practical learning, where real-world applications and internships complement classroom theories.”

College of Engineering

Instructions: All applicants are required to write two supplemental essays. Each has a limit of 250 words. Essay 1 is required of all applicants. For Essay 2, you must choose between Question A and Question B.

Essay 1: Required response. (250-word limit)

How do your interests directly connect with Cornell Engineering? If you have an intended major, what draws you to that department at Cornell Engineering? If you are unsure what specific engineering field you would like to study, describe how your general interest in engineering most directly connects with Cornell Engineering. It may be helpful to concentrate on one or two things that you are most excited about.

Breakdown:

When it comes to applying to Cornell’s College of Engineering, the main goal for admissions officers is to see if you are truly interested in engineering and if you will utilize your time at the university to further your pursuit into the field. There are quite a few directions you can take when you answer these questions depending on your interests, but try to think out of the box and truly apply your interest into what you hope to accomplish at Cornell.

Brainstorming Questions:

1. What are your primary interests in engineering?
2. How did you develop these interests? Was there a particular experience or person who influenced you?
3. How does Cornell Engineering support or enhance your interests?
4. Are there specific programs, clubs, or organizations at Cornell Engineering that align with your interests?
5. Have you visited Cornell or interacted with current students or faculty? What insights did you gain?
6. What specific field of engineering are you interested in? Why?
7. How does the curriculum of your intended major at Cornell stand out to you?
8. How do you see your education at Cornell Engineering helping you achieve your future career or academic goals?
9. Do you hope to accomplish any particular outcomes or milestones through your connection with Cornell Engineering?

Example Response:

“Stepping into Cornell Engineering feels like diving headfirst into a world where ideas ignite and innovation thrives. My path here isn’t just about picking a major—it’s about embracing a journey fueled by curiosity and a drive to push boundaries.

In essence, Cornell Engineering isn’t just a destination—it’s a launchpad for exploration, innovation, and making waves in the world. Here, amidst towering ideas and collaborative fervor, I’m ready to shape my journey, fueled by passion, driven by purpose, and destined to leave an indelible mark.”

Essay 2: Choose either Question A and Question B. (250-word limit)

Question A: Describe an engineering problem that impacts your local community. This could be your school, neighborhood, town, region, or a group you identify with. Describe one to three things you might do as an engineer to solve the problem.

Question B: Diversity in all forms is intrinsic to excellence in engineering. Engineering the best solutions to complex problems is often achieved by drawing from the diverse ingenuity of people from different backgrounds, lived experiences, and identities. How do you see yourself contributing to the diversity and/or the inclusion of the Cornell Engineering community? What is the unique voice you would bring to the Cornell Engineering community?

Breakdown:

Questions to ask yourself:

If you’re interested in question A:

1. What engineering problems have you seen around your community? Do any road challenges, flood issues, etc., become evident during certain times of the year?
2. What would you do if you were the engineer on the project? How would you handle the design challenges and improve the engineering of the particular problem?

If you’re interested in answering question B:

1. How does diversity impact engineering? How do your past experiences influence your desire to be in engineering?
2. How will you use this knowledge and perspective to impact the Cornell Engineering community positively? What will you contribute to the college, and how will you use Cornell’s resources to make an impact?

Example Response:

Question A: “In my hometown, the issue of water scarcity has emerged as a pressing engineering challenge that profoundly affects our community. As climate change intensifies, our region faces increasingly erratic rainfall patterns, leading to periods of drought that strain our local water supply systems.

One specific problem is the inefficiency of our current irrigation practices in agriculture. Farmers rely heavily on traditional irrigation methods that are often wasteful and unsustainable, exacerbating water scarcity during dry spells. This threatens crop yields and compromises the long-term viability of our agricultural sector, which is the backbone of our local economy.”

Question B: “Diversity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the cornerstone of innovation and excellence in engineering. As I envision myself joining the vibrant community at Cornell Engineering, I am inspired by the opportunity to contribute my unique perspective and experiences to foster a more inclusive and innovative environment.

Growing up in a multicultural household has shaped my worldview and instilled a deep appreciation for diversity. I have navigated between different cultures, languages, and traditions, which has enriched my ability to collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds. This multicultural upbringing has taught me the value of empathy, adaptability, and the importance of listening to diverse voices.”

College of Human Ecology

How have your related experiences influenced your decision to apply to the College of Human Ecology (CHE)? How will your choice of major impact your goals and plans for the future? Your response should show us that your interests and aspirations align with CHE and your choice of major. (Refer to our essay application tips before you begin.) (650 word limit)

Breakdown:

In this prompt, you’re asked to describe how your personal, academic, or volunteer experiences have shaped your decision to apply to the College of Human Ecology (CHE) at Cornell University. Explain how these experiences have influenced your choice of major and how this choice aligns with your future goals and plans! Your response should also demonstrate how your interests and aspirations are in harmony with the mission and values of CHE.

Brainstorming questions:

1. What have you done within the realm of Human Ecology? Why are you interested in the subject?
2. Why is the College of Human Ecology the right place for your intellectual development and study?
3. What experiences have you had within the field that you can use to impact your academic interests as you move into higher education?
4. What are your goals and aspirations for the future? How do they relate to this university? 

Example Response:

“From a young age, I have been fascinated by the intricate interplay between human behavior and the environment. Growing up in a family deeply involved in community health initiatives, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that supportive environments can have on individual well-being. These experiences ignited my passion for understanding how social and environmental factors shape human development, motivating my decision to apply to the College of Human Ecology (CHE) at Cornell University.

One pivotal experience that solidified my interest in CHE occurred during high school when I volunteered at a local homeless shelter. I interacted daily with individuals facing various challenges, from food insecurity to mental health issues. These interactions underscored the importance of holistic approaches to social issues, combining insights from psychology, nutrition, and community development. I realized that addressing complex societal problems requires interdisciplinary knowledge and collaboration—a cornerstone of CHE’s approach.”

School of Industrial and Labor Relations

Using your personal, academic, or volunteer/work experiences, describe the topics or issues that you care about and why they are important to you. Your response should show us that your interests align with the ILR School. (650 word limit)

Breakdown:

As an applicant to the School of Industrial and Labor Relations, Cornell wants to know what brought you to this path and how you will use this experience to contribute to the ILR School. What have you done within school or outside of it that has driven you to explore a path in industrial and labor relations?

Brainstorming questions:

1. What is important to you? What do you value most in life?
2. Are there any topics in the news or within your community that you focus on?
3. What have you done in and outside school to help impact these particular issues?
4. Are there any experiences that stand out to you most or have impacted you most?
5. Why did you choose to apply to the ILR School at Cornell? What makes this school helpful or unique to your goals and aspirations?
6. How will you use this experience to help make a difference within your community and on a larger scale?

Example Response:

“Throughout my academic and extracurricular journey, my passion for understanding and advocating for labor rights and workplace equity has been a guiding force. This commitment stems from personal experiences and academic exploration, aligning perfectly with the mission and values of the ILR School at Cornell University.

Looking forward, I aim to leverage the interdisciplinary education and resources offered by the ILR School to advance my understanding and impact on labor relations. The ILR School’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community and its renowned faculty and research centers like the Worker Institute align perfectly with my aspirations to become a leader in advocating for labor justice.”

Our Top 10 Tips for Tackling the Cornell Supplemental Essays

Below are some tips to keep in mind for writing your college essays:

1. Understand the Prompt

Before beginning to write, ensure that you have a thorough understanding of each essay prompt. Cornell University has different colleges, each with questions specific to their unique programs. Take the time to deconstruct the prompt, identify its requirements, and make sure you address each part. This will ensure that your essay is relevant and focused and that you leave the admissions committee wanting to learn more about you and your strengths!

2. Research the College

Cornell University comprises several colleges, each with its academic focus and culture. Research the specific college you are applying to within Cornell. Understand its values, programs, and what makes it unique, and use the research to tailor your essays to show how your goals and interests align with the college’s offerings.

3. Reflect on Your Experiences

Your experiences are the foundation of your essay. Reflect on personal, academic, and extracurricular activities that have shaped you and are relevant to the prompt, and choose experiences that demonstrate your skills, interests, and values. This reflection will help you create a compelling narrative that highlights your unique background and how it aligns with Cornell’s offerings.

Here’s an example of how a student tied their experiences to apply to the Cornell School of Hotel Administration:

4. Be Authentic

Authenticity is vital in your supplemental essays—you’re unique, and so is your story, so show it! Admissions officers can tell when an essay is genuine versus crafted to impress. Be honest about your interests, experiences, and aspirations. Authenticity will make your essay stand out and resonate with readers, showing them who you are.

5. Show, Don’t Tell

When crafting supplemental essays, use specific examples to illustrate your points rather than make general statements. For instance, describe a project or experience that sparked your interest in business instead of saying you are passionate about business. This approach makes your essay more vivid and memorable, allowing the admissions committee to visualize your journey and passion!

6. Highlight Your Fit

Please explain why you believe you are a good fit for Cornell and why Cornell is a good fit for you. Discuss specific programs, courses, professors, or extracurricular activities that excite you. In addition, demonstrate your understanding of Cornell’s community and how you can contribute, showing that you have done thorough research and are genuinely interested in being a part of Cornell. If admitted, this will be your home for multiple years, so show the admissions officers why and how you plan to improve the experience for current and future students.

7. Be Clear and Concise

While it’s essential to be detailed, you should also be concise. Stick to the word limit and avoid unnecessary fluff; each sentence should add value to your essay. Being clear and concise ensures that your main points come across effectively and keeps the reader engaged throughout your essay!

8. Craft a Strong Opening

Your opening paragraph sets the tone for the rest of your essay. Start with a compelling hook that grabs the reader’s attention, whether it is an anecdote, a surprising fact, or a thought-provoking question. A strong opening will entice the admissions officers to read on and learn more about you, so be sure to hook their interest immediately!

9. Revise and Edit

Writing a great essay involves multiple drafts. After your initial draft, take the time to revise and refine your essay. Focus on improving the clarity, coherence, and flow of your writing. Pay attention to grammar and spelling. Consider seeking feedback from teachers, mentors, or friends to get different perspectives. If you need a second set of eyes, our Essay Editing team at Empowerly has always got your back! Our expert team has read and reviewed thousands of student essays, so they know exactly what to look for when editing and revising your supplemental essays.

10. Reflect Your Growth

Colleges are looking for students who are constantly growing and learning. Show how your experiences have influenced you and how you have grown. Discuss any challenges you have overcome and what you have learned from them. This shows resilience and a dedication to personal development, which colleges appreciate!

Final Thoughts

Cornell University’s supplemental essays are a vital component of your application. By thoughtfully addressing each prompt and showcasing your unique experiences and aspirations, you can create a compelling narrative that resonates with the admissions committee. Remember, your goal is to demonstrate your qualifications and passion for Cornell and how you will contribute to its vibrant community, but you got this. If you need some extra support, Empowerly has got your back! Be part of the 98% of students accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools with Empowerly’s help. Our top-rated college counselors and essay editing experts have improved admission rates by 11x. Don’t miss out—boost your chances of success today by scheduling a consultation with our team!

Good luck and happy writing!