georgetown essays

Georgetown University 2023-24 Essay Prompt Guide

Early Action: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 10

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Georgetown 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 1 essay of 250 words; 1 half-page essay; 2 page-long essays

Supplemental Essay Type(s):  Activity , Why, Diversity

Prompt 1: Please elaborate on any special talents or skills you would like to highlight. (250 words)

This prompt may come first on the list, but we think you should save it for last! For the other essays on the Georgetown application, we ask you to dig deep and share personal stories that showcase talents and interests. Don’t dry the well by listing all of your (many!) skills and talents too soon. Every essay should reveal something new to admissions. So once you finish polishing your other pieces, ask yourself: what’s missing? Is there some critical puzzle piece that will help connect your other three essays? Or have you been dying to get something off your chest that didn’t fit anywhere else? This essay could be the perfect outlet for you to showcase your more personal skills, interests, and quirks. If the rest of your essays showcase your drive to work in international relations, perhaps your answer to this prompt could showcase a lighter side: your love of experimental cooking (and impressive knife skills!). Or maybe explain how learning a new language helped you learn how to whistle! While you should aim to showcase genuine skills that you have put effort into cultivating, you can also have a little bit of fun. This prompt is the most open-ended one on the application, so show admissions something they won’t find anywhere else on your application.

Prompt 2: Briefly discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved. (approximately 1/2 page, single-spaced) 

Next up is a fun twist on the classic activity essay, which asks you to expand on an extracurricular endeavor that you care about. For starters, we’d give you basically the same advice the prompt does: focus on one of the activities “in which you have been most involved.” Although we usually urge students to write about items that haven’t appeared elsewhere on their application, the activity essay is an exception since it specifically asks you to address an item on your resume. So, pick something with meat! When have you had the opportunity to take on a leadership role? How has four years of debate club shaped the way you communicate? Was it difficult coaching pee wee soccer as a freshman, and what motivated you to stick with it?

Prompt 3: As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief personal or creative essay which you feel best describes you and reflects on your own background, identity, skills, and talents. (approximately 1 page, single-spaced)

Though it seems straightforward, this may be one of the hardest prompts! (What do you mean, tell you about myself in my own words?) Don’t fret. You can treat this essay just like the Common App’s prompt #1 , which asks students to write about a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. (Even better: if you’ve already written an essay in response to the Common App’s first prompt, you can recycle that essay here since Georgetown has its own application platform!)

If you’re approaching this essay from scratch, take some time to brainstorm. What about your background, talents, or identity might be worth highlighting for an admissions officer? Don’t worry about cramming every aspect of the wonder that is you into one essay; they will naturally reveal themselves along the way as you write. Whether you want to write about a facet of your identity that few people know about or a passion you’ve been dabbling in (and telling everyone about) for years, you can’t go wrong with authentic reflection and an engaging hook!

Georgetown University School-Specific Prompts.

(each school-specific prompt should not exceed 1 page, single-spaced), georgetown college of arts and sciences: a liberal arts education from the college of arts & sciences involves encounters with new concepts and modes of inquiry. describe something (a class, a book, an event, etc.) that changed your thinking. (applicants to the sciences, mathematics, public policy or languages are encouraged to include examples related to that field.).

Admissions wants to learn about a time when your mind was changed. If you’re an active reader or information seeker, you probably have a few ideas already. But if nothing comes to mind immediately, don’t panic; instead, think about the times in your life when you’ve had an “Aha!” moment that forced you to drastically re-examine one of your beliefs or understandings. Admissions wants to know that you are open to new ideas and can reflect in order to see things from a different perspective. As you tell your story, include sensory details to bring your experience to life, whether you’re sitting in the back of a classroom, head in your hands, trying to wrap your brain around the truth-bomb your teacher just dropped; or curled up in a blanket by the fireplace with your nose in a gripping book. If you’re deciding between “Aha!” moments to write about, pick the one most closely related to your intended field of study. Applicants who can articulate their thoughts and feelings while showcasing malleability and a willingness to thoughtfully consider new ideas will likely stand out as valuable additions to the Georgetown community. 

School of Health: Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying health care at Georgetown University. Please specifically address your intended major (Global Health, Health Care Management & Policy, or Human Science).

If we know anything about applying to medical programs, it is this: everyone wants to help people; everyone wants to make the world a better place; everyone wants to make a meaningful contribution. Few fields lend themselves to service-oriented clichés and platitudes as readily as medicine does, so to safely navigate the minefield of hackneyed generalizations, start with something personal! What’s one eye-opening experience that made you believe healthcare could be your calling? Perhaps it was a single moment, like accidental eye contact with a concerned mother at the ER. Or maybe it was something more long-term, such as navigating your school in a wheelchair after knee surgery and realizing you want to improve patient outcomes through researching physical therapies. Whatever the case, use your personal story as the backdrop for your argument. What did you learn? What problems do you hope to tackle? What change do you hope to help create? As we said, it’s not enough to just want these things; your job is to show admissions why medicine interests you personally. Once you’ve accomplished that, be sure to address the role Georgetown will play in your plan for the future. In other words, why do you want to study healthcare at Georgetown in particular? Do they have a research lab that’s at the forefront of innovation? A wise applicant will do some research so they can infuse their response with specific details that demonstrate meticulousness and drive.

School of Nursing: Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying your intended major, Nursing.

Well, this is about as straightforward as prompts get! Our advice is much the same as it is for students applying to the School of Health (see above). Set yourself apart from other applicants by not only discussing the factors that led you to pursuing a career in nursing, but by also connecting those experiences to your larger goals for the future. If there are elements of a Georgetown education that will support your particular interest or connect to your past experiences in some way, you should dig into that in your response, while also revealing new information to admissions about your character, motivations, and aspirations.

Walsh School of Foreign Service: The Walsh School of Foreign Service was founded more than a century ago to prepare generations of leaders to solve global problems. What is motivating you to dedicate your undergraduate studies to a future in service to the world?

The Walsh School of Foreign Service wants to know what fuels your fire. What is driving you to dedicate your undergraduate studies (and maybe even your life!) to a path of service? Maybe you are incredibly passionate about combating climate change before it’s too late. What do you hope to achieve and how? Perhaps you’re following in the footsteps of a trailblazer you look up to—how do you hope to continue fighting the good fight in their honor? If you’re feeling stuck, ask yourself: what kind of mark would you like to leave on the world? How do you think you can positively contribute to a cause that is important to you? If you had the power to make a lasting impact in any area at all, what would it be? While building the personal connection is key, you’ll also want to leave yourself some space to spell out at least a few steps you might take to address your global issue of choice.

McDonough School of Business: The McDonough School of Business is a national and global leader in providing graduates with essential ethical, analytical, financial and global perspectives. Please discuss your motivations for studying business at Georgetown.

If you think we’ve never seen an essay with the line, “I love money,” you would be wrong. Spoiler: this does not make a great first impression. Studying business is about so much more than dollars and cents, and the prompt offers a few other aspects of business you’ll learn about in this program including “ethical, analytical, financial and global perspectives.” In order to get some perspective, we’d recommend doing your homework. Like any classic why essay, the best answers are personal and specific, so go beyond your general interest in business and try to figure out specifically why Georgetown could be the right fit for you. Is it the location? The professors? The travel opportunities? Allow yourself to follow every lead and fall down every rabbit hole as you root through the program website. Your essay should paint a picture of the kind of student you will be at Georgetown, from the classes you’ll take to the activities you’ll pursue. How will this education prepare you for your dream career?

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Georgetown Supplemental Essays 2024-25 – Prompts and Advice

June 20, 2024

The nation’s oldest Jesuit institution of higher learning is also its most selective, as Georgetown University welcomed just 12% of applicants to the Class of 2028 onto its historical and notably beautiful Washington, DC, campus. Whenever you are applying to a school of Georgetown’s caliber, where the average admitted applicant has a 1470 SAT score and is at (or near) the top of their high school class, you need to find ways to set yourself apart from the pack. Toward that aim, prospective Hoyas need to take advantage of the Georgetown supplemental essays.

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

The goal is to write compelling, standout compositions. Your essays should showcase your exceptional writing ability and reveal more about who you are as an individual. Below are Georgetown’s essay prompts for the 2024-25 admissions cycle along with tips about how to address each one.

Georgetown Supplemental Essays – Prompt 1

Please elaborate on any special talents or skills you would like to highlight. (250 words)

The wording of this prompt changed slightly from “ Indicate any special talents or skills …” to “ Please elaborate on any special talents or skills …” This tells us that Georgetown is encouraging applicants to go into more detail about their chosen talent/skill.

If you are a world-class athlete, you are likely already in the recruitment process. If you placed high in AIME or won a National Merit Scholarship, that is already stated in the awards section. Therefore, using the prized 250 words of real estate to merely rehash the fact that you won an award for something you are good at would not be an inspiring move. Instead, use this essay as an opportunity to offer a new level of depth and understanding about your talent(s). In addition to discussing the talent you possess, describe the journey of how you developed your abilities and how they have impacted you.

A few years back, Malcolm Gladwell popularized the idea that becoming an expert at anything takes 10,000 hours of practice. Consider talking about the grind and sacrifice it took you to become great at a given skill. Describe how you see that skill becoming even more finely tuned/developed over time. If this skill fits into your future academic/career plans, all the better—share that too!

Georgetown Supplemental Essays – Prompt 2

Briefly discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved. (approximately 1/2 page, single-spaced) 

Perhaps you are the captain of a team, the editor-in-chief of your school paper, or the president of a club. On the other hand, you may simply be a valuable contributing member. Regardless of whether you are a leading man/woman or a still-essential bit player, make sure that you use your writing ability to show the admissions officer what type of involved team member you are rather than merely telling them.

You can also discuss how you have engaged with your high school local/community. Share what you have learned from interacting with people of a different ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual identity, etc. Draw on past evidence of your commitment to being a positive force in the context of your activity/activities. Also be sure to speculate how that is likely to manifest on Georgetown’s campus. Research and cite Hoya student-run organizations, local nonprofit groups, or anything else you are drawn to. The admissions committee wants to understand precisely how you will contribute to their campus community of 7,000+ undergrads. Drawing the link between your past efforts and future aims is critical here. For example, if you’ve done work with Habitat for Humanity throughout your teens, it will be most impactful if you express your commitment to joining Georgetown’s chapter of Habitat for Humanity in the future.

Georgetown University Supplemental Essays – Prompt 3

As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief personal or creative essay which you feel best describes you and reflects on your own background, identity, skills, and talents. (Approximately one page, single-spaced)

Whether you decide to write about yourself in a way that is light, creative, humorous, personal, sincere, or vulnerable (any are perfectly fine), aim to reveal a picture of yourself that cannot be gleaned from elsewhere in your application materials.

Take note of the wide-open nature of this prompt. While there are no limits to the way in which you approach this essay, here are some angles to consider:

• A perspective you hold
• An experience you had
• A community you belong to
• Your cultural or family background
• Something you’ve had to overcome

The admissions officer looking at your essay is hoping to connect with you through your written words. So be open, humble, thoughtful, inquisitive, emotionally honest, mature, and insightful. No matter what type of story you tell, the goal is to have the reader come away saying, “I can definitely see this applicant as a contributing member of our talented and engaged student community.”

Georgetown Supplemental Essays — The School-Specific Essay

Depending on the College or School that you are applying to at Georgetown, you’ll need to write a separate school-specific essay. At their core, all of them are “Why Us” essays. As you address each prompt (see below), be sure to include Georgetown-specific offerings and opportunities that support your reasoning, interests, and future plans.

Elements of a great Georgetown “Why Us?” essay

• Cite school-specific  academic programs , professors,  research opportunities ,  internship/externship programs , and  study abroad programs .
• Reference student-run organizations at Georgetown that align with your passions.
• Describe how you take advantage of Georgetown’s immense resources both inside and outside of the classroom.
• Make sure to touch on both a) why Georgetown is the perfect fit for you and) why you are the perfect fit for Georgetown. Covering both topics is essential.

Common mistakes on a Georgetown “Why Us?” essay .

• Fawning over the picturesque Gothic-style Georgetown campus (it is quite beautiful, but they already know that).
• Georgetown is top-ranked, prestigious, and has a great reputation. Again, they know!
• Too many generic expressions of feeling (e.g., It has been my dream since I was a toddler to be a Hoya… ).
• Recycled statements from your other “Why Us?” essays that come across as stale, impersonal, or worst of all–irrelevant/inaccurate.

Georgetown College: Founded in 1789, the Georgetown College of Arts & Sciences is committed to the Jesuit traditions of an integrated education and of productive research in the natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, and fine arts. Describe your interest in studying at College of Arts & Sciences. Applicants interested in the sciences, mathematics, or languages are encouraged to make specific reference to their choice of major.

Out of all the attributes they could have chosen, Georgetown chose to reference “integrated education” and “productive research” within the prompt. Accordingly, you may want to do some research on the two aforementioned traditions and think about how they’ll impact your education at Georgetown. You can also write about any other offerings, programs, professors, or opportunities within the College of Arts and Sciences that are especially interesting to you and in line with your experiences and goals. Note that Georgetown encourages certain types of applicants to make specific references to their prospective field of study.

Georgetown Supplemental Essays (Continued)

School of Nursing: Georgetown University’s School of Nursing is committed to the formation of ethical, empathetic, and transformational nursing leaders. Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying Nursing at Georgetown University.

School of Health: Georgetown University’s School of Health was founded to advance the health and well-being of people locally, nationally, and globally through innovative research, the delivery of interdisciplinary education, and transformative engagement of communities. Describe the factors that influenced your interest in studying health care at Georgetown University, specifically addressing your intended related major: Global Health, Health Care Management & Policy, or Human Science.

Since these prompts are similar, the below advice applies to both:

“A nurse is not what you do, it is who you are.”

This quote from an anonymous source captures the idea that becoming a nurse is a calling; not a profession you just stumble into. Healthcare is no different. Healthcare professionals are willing to work long shifts in the service of others, be on the frontlines of a pandemic, and deal with life’s toughest challenges (e.g., suffering and death) on a regular basis. Many applicants share stories of caring for sick relatives, experiencing a tough medical episode themselves, or observing the challenges faced by a particular community as inspiration for studying nursing or healthcare.

In addition, you’ll want to include school-specific research that demonstrates your knowledge of the school’s opportunities and resources as well as the skills Georgetown will help you build (and why they are important to you). Overall, show the admissions committee that you are a passionate and mature healthcare or nursing candidate, that this field is genuinely “who you are,” and that attending Georgetown will be the right fit for you.

Walsh School of Foreign Service: Georgetown University’s Walsh School of Foreign Service was founded more than a century ago to prepare generations of leaders with the foundational skills to address global issues. Describe your primary motivations for studying international affairs at Georgetown University and dedicating your undergraduate studies toward a future in global service.

International service is not something every 17/18-year-old in the country is dreaming about doing as a vocation. There is likely a very interesting story surrounding what motivated you to apply to the Walsh School of Foreign Service and this essay invites you to share this very narrative. You don’t need to look any deeper than today’s headlines to identify powerful and immensely challenging global problems. Regardless of your major, you likely have a highly specific set of academic and career goals taking shape in your mind.

If you can communicate these goals and the motivations behind them while sharing a vision for how you will contribute to the betterment of humankind in one or multiple regions of the world, then you are likely to end up with an excellent Walsh essay. Moreover, discuss why Walsh in particular will be a great fit for you.

McDonough School of Business: Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business provides graduates with essential global, ethical, analytical, financial, and diverse perspectives on the economies of our nation and the world. Describe your primary motivations for studying business at Georgetown University.

Before you start writing, do some McDonough-specific research and think about why a business education from McDonough in particular will be a great fit for your interests and goals. Further, to stand out, applicants need to connect the resources they’ve chosen to experiences they’ve had, demonstrating that they have availed themselves of every opportunity to dive into the business world during their high school years. Of course, not everyone has parents who hand them money to invest in the stock market or land them an internship at Goldman Sachs in 9th grade.

Relevant experiences can include high school investing clubs, participation in activities like FBLA, summer programs/courses in business/finance/economics, running your own local small business or e-business (Etsy, landscaping, etc.), or just a regular old retail job. The important thing to highlight is what you learned from your experiences. You should also note how you’ll bring that newly acquired knowledge to the classroom at Georgetown, and how your experiences have informed & influenced what you hope to continue learning in college.

How important are the Georgetown supplemental essays?

There are a whopping 8 factors that Georgetown considers to be “very important” to the evaluation process. These are: rigor of secondary school record, character/personal qualities, class rank, GPA, standardized test scores, recommendations, extracurricular activities, and most relevant to this blog—the application essays. The essays undoubtedly play a significant role in the admissions process at Georgetown. They can help the committee decide who to admit when choosing between similarly credentialed (GPA, test scores, etc.) applicants.

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Interested in working with one of our experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your Georgetown supplemental essays? We encourage you to get a quote  today.

Need more writing-related resources? Consider checking out the following:

• Common App Essay Prompts
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• College Application Essay Topics to Avoid
• How to Brainstorm a College Essay
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• “Why This College?” Essay Examples
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• College Essay

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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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Sample Essays

The breadth of Georgetown’s core curriculum means that students are required to write for a wide variety of academic disciplines. Below, we provide some student samples that exhibit the key features the most popular genres. When reading through these essays, we recommend paying attention to their 

1. Structure (How many paragraphs are there? Does the author use headers?) 

2. Argument (Is the author pointing out a problem, and/or proposing a solution?) 

3. Content (Does the argument principally rely on facts, theory, or logic?) and 

4. Style (Does the writer use first person? What is the relationship with the audience?)

Philosophy Paper

• Singer on the Moral Status of Animals

Theology Paper

• Problem of God
• Jewish Civilization
• Sacred Space and Time
• Phenolphthalein in Alkaline Solution

History Paper

• World History

Literature Review

Comparative Analysis 

Policy Brief

• Vaccine Manufacturing

White Paper

Critical Analysis

• Ignatius Seminar

Georgetown Essay 2023-24

Georgetown supplemental essays 2023-24.

Supplemental essays are an important part of every college application, and Georgetown is no exception. Each Georgetown essay is an opportunity for applicants to share something unique about themselves with the admissions team. Especially when applying to such a competitive university, the Georgetown supplemental essays could be a deciding factor in your application. However, don’t let the Georgetown supplemental essays stress you out! The best way to write an outstanding Georgetown essay is by preparing early and following some useful guidelines. 

In this guide to the Georgetown supplemental essays, we’ll go over how to respond to each Georgetown essay. We’ll also fill you in on some of the other Georgetown requirements you’ll encounter during the application process. And, we’ll provide some insight into just how much weight these Georgetown essays hold when it comes to admissions decisions. 

But first, let’s learn a little bit more about the university!

Georgetown Admissions: Quick Facts

Georgetown university quick facts.

• Georgetown Acceptance Rate: 12% – U.S. News ranks Georgetown University as #22 in its National Universities list.
• 1 half-page (~250 word) essay
• 1 full-page (~500 word) essay
• 1 full-page (~500 word) school-specific essay
• Georgetown Application Note: All Georgetown essays will be submitted through the university’s application portal. Georgetown applicants will not use the Common Application or Coalition Application when applying. 
• #1 Georgetown Essay Tip: Use each Georgetown essay as an opportunity to highlight a new personal trait, value, skill, or talent. Your Georgetown supplemental essays should provide new information and important context to your application narrative.

Does Georgetown have supplemental essays?

Yes! There are three required Georgetown University supplemental essays. Each of the Georgetown essay prompts allows students to further expand on a new theme. The word count for each of the Georgetown University supplemental essays varies from half a page to one full page (single-spaced). 

Later, we’ll get into the Georgetown essay prompts in more detail. For now, keep in mind that each essay should showcase why you’re a perfect fit for Georgetown. So, you’ll want to think about all the reasons why you’re interested in this university specifically. Then, you’ll want to find ways to relate them to your own unique experiences and skills. 

How many essays does Georgetown require?

As we mentioned, there are three Georgetown supplemental essays that all applicants are required to answer. Since Georgetown has its own application (they don’t use the Common App or Coalition App), students will need to write all new essays. What we mean by that is you won’t be using your personal statement from the Common App. However, that being said, there is a Georgetown essay prompt that is similar to the personal statement. So, you may be able to adjust your personal statement essay and incorporate these topics/themes into your Georgetown essay. 

The remaining two Georgetown essay prompts may seem familiar as they are similar to many other college essay prompts. One is a school-specific essay where you might draw on aspects from a “why major” or “why school” essay. Ultimately, the prompt you respond to will depend on your major of choice, as each school has a different one. 

The other Georgetown essay is similar to an extracurricular activities essay. Students will need to dive deeper into their interests, values, and goals in order to comprehensively respond to this prompt. 

Georgetown Essay Prompt – Talents & Skills

Georgetown Essay One asks you to reflect on your skills and talents, along with your background and identity. That being said, this is not the only Georgetown essay prompt where you can touch on these aspects of your personality. Thinking about your unique skills and talents and how they’ve shaped your future educational goals will be beneficial to answering all of the Georgetown supplemental essays. 

Remember, there is no personal statement in the Georgetown application, and that is simply because they don’t use the Common App. However, there is a similar prompt in which students are asked to write a personal or creative essay. Let’s take a look at the actual prompt. 

Georgetown University Essay Prompt #1

As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief personal or creative essay which you feel best describes you and reflects on your own background, identity, skills, and talents. (approximately 1 page, single-spaced)

This essay could be qualified as a cultural diversity essay, a talents and skills essay, and even a personal statement. There are certainly many routes applicants could take when writing this Georgetown essay—one of those is expanding upon their unique skills and talents. 

Additionally, students will need to write a school-specific Georgetown essay. Below are the Georgetown essay prompts for each of the schools.

Georgetown University Essay Prompt #2

Georgetown college:, a liberal arts education from the college of arts & sciences involves encounters with new concepts and modes of inquiry. describe something (a class, a book, an event, etc.) that changed your thinking. (applicants to the sciences, mathematics, public policy or languages are encouraged to include examples related to that field.), school of health:, describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying health care at georgetown university. please specifically address your intended major (global health, health care management & policy, or human science)., school of nursing:, describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying health care. please specifically address your intended major nursing., walsh school of foreign service:, the walsh school of foreign service was founded more than a century ago to prepare generations of leaders to solve global problems. what is motivating you to dedicate your undergraduate studies to a future in service to the world, mcdonough school of business:, the mcdonough school of business is a national and global leader in providing graduates with essential ethical, analytical, financial, and global perspectives. please discuss your motivations for studying business at georgetown..

As with Essay One, this essay will be approximately 1 page, single-spaced. When completing the school-specific Georgetown essay, you’ll want to consider your academic skills and talents. How do they apply to the major and school of your interest? Why do those unique abilities make you a perfect candidate for that school?

Next, you’ll see how the Georgetown Short Essay prompt also allows you to consider your interests, talents, and skills. 

Georgetown Essay Prompt – Summer Activity

The shortest of the Georgetown supplemental essays is the summer/extracurricular activities essay. Applicants will have approximately half a page to expand upon a school or summer activity that has played an important role in their lives. Here is the prompt: 

Georgetown University Summer Activity Essay Prompt

Briefly (approximately one-half page, single-spaced) discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved..

It’s important to comprehensively respond to each of the Georgetown essay prompts. For example, this Georgetown essay needs to show the meaning behind the activity in which applicants have been most involved. Basically, even though you may have had an extremely impactful experience volunteering at an elderly home one afternoon unless it’s something you consistently do, you won’t want to write about it here. 

When brainstorming, start with your biggest commitments. What activity have you been the most involved in? Why has it been so impactful to you? Think about what made you commit so much time to this particular activity. What have you gained from it? Has it shaped your future education and career goals? What skills have you acquired from taking part in the activity? 

If you’re curious, involved, and have something you’re passionate about, the challenge in writing this essay won’t be answering these questions; it will be doing so in just half a page. Keep in mind that Georgetown has a large club culture on its campus. So, they’re looking for students who are going to get involved and take advantage of the hundreds of organizations on campus. In your essay, aim to show that you’re an active participant in your particular community. 

How to write the Georgetown supplemental essays

Think of each Georgetown essay as a piece of a puzzle that when put together will complete your application narrative . A well-written Georgetown essay will provide new information while answering each of the Georgetown essay prompts in its entirety. When considering how to write the Georgetown supplemental essays, and ultimately how to get into Georgetown, you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to dedicate to each of the three Georgetown essay prompts. 

Looking at Georgetown essay examples (or any college essay examples ) will also help you get inspired before writing. When reading Georgetown essay examples, you’ll note there is no singular formula for answering these prompts. You can read a Georgetown essay example here and find prompt-specific tips in our previous Georgetown University Supplemental Essays guide . 

Now, here’s some advice for how to approach each of the Georgetown Essay prompts.

Responding to the school or summer activity essay

If you have an extracurricular activity that you’ve been doing for a long time, then this may be an easy Georgetown essay for you to write. You’ll want to explain why the activity has been so meaningful to you. This means diving deep into its significance in your life. 

Have you found out that you love writing by working on the school newspaper? Or maybe you’ve been able to fuel your intellectual curiosity through having been a member of the robotics team. Perhaps you will focus on your summers spent working as a camp counselor and the leadership skills that you gained from doing so.  

Go beyond the superficial with this (and every) Georgetown essay. The impact of the extracurricular activity is much more important than the activity itself. Truly consider how it’s shaped your personality, values, skills, or goals. And, if you feel like it is central to your experience, consider touching on a challenge you’ve faced or a specific opportunity you took advantage of.

Responding to the cultural diversity or “personal statement” essay

This one-page Georgetown essay will be similar to the personal statement in the Common App. However, you won’t have multiple essay prompts to choose from. Essentially, this Georgetown essay will be a combination of a cultural diversity and personal statement essay—a sort of hybrid take on each. Let’s take a look at the prompt again: 

Consider the important aspects of you as a person that you haven’t yet had the opportunity to highlight within your application. What would you like to mention and how will it make you an even more competitive candidate? Consider your personal experiences, background, culture, identity, skills, and talents. What has had a large impact on shaping you as a person? How will you bring what you’ve learned from those experiences to the “diverse community” at Georgetown? Make sure you speak to something that has been meaningful and impactful for you. A successful Georgetown essay will exude passion—and that can’t be faked!

Rather than writing about something you think admissions wants to hear about, write about something that is truly important to you. Note that the prompt specifies you can write a “creative essay.” So, if you love writing, then let your creativity and imagination go wild here. However, don’t get so carried away that you forget to stay on topic and answer the prompt. 

Responding to the school-specific essay

These Georgetown supplemental essays are an opportunity to explain what has drawn you to a specific course of study. Again, you’ll need to answer the school-specific Georgetown essay prompt that pertains to you. However, almost all of them will want you to reference certain experiences, skills, or interests that have led you to your school of interest. 

This essay is a combination of a “why major” and “why school” essay all in one. Why do you belong in that particular school and program at Georgetown? If you know your specific major interests and career goals, feel free to mention them! 

Looking at Georgetown essay examples and tips may help you in crafting your own essay. Additionally, you might want to check out these Georgetown majors before starting this school-specific Georgetown essay.  

Does Georgetown care about essays?

So just how important are your Georgetown supplemental essays when it comes to your “how to get into Georgetown” gameplan ? Put simply—they’re very important. Georgetown admissions really does care what applicants write in their Georgetown essays. Georgetown is a top-ranking, competitive university with a low acceptance rate. Therefore, the candidate pool is full of many academically high-achieving students who can’t all be accepted. Most everyone will have impressive GPAs, rigorous course loads, ample extracurriculars, and high test scores. 

This is where each Georgetown essay can play a pivotal role in the admissions process. The Georgetown essays are opportunities to show the admissions officers just what makes you stand out from the crowd. These Georgetown supplemental essays should be uniquely yours—they shouldn’t read as though any student could have written them. This unique insight into your life helps admissions imagine the contribution you’d make on campus. Basically, with a holistic admissions process, they are an important factor in the admissions decision process. 

What is Georgetown looking for in essays?

Georgetown admissions does note that one of the most important criteria they consider is in fact academic performance. However, as we’ve mentioned, many academically high-achieving students apply. So, how can you set yourself apart from the rest?

Admissions carefully looks for students who will add to and benefit from the Georgetown campus community . They want students who care about being a part of something bigger than themselves. They place importance on traits such as motivation, resilience, and ambition when considering applicants. This is why with each Georgetown essay you’ll want to take your responses deeper than simply surface-level.

Go beyond the what of your experiences and think about the why behind them. Truly consider the meaning, significance, and impact that the experiences you choose to write about have had on you. This will help you to write impressive, passionate, and authentic Georgetown essays that can help to set your application apart.  

When is my Georgetown application due?

Even if you write incredible Georgetown supplemental essays, it won’t matter if you don’t submit your application and all of the Georgetown requirements on time. Applications have a tendency to sneak up on students, especially during a busy senior-year fall. So, when is the Georgetown application deadline? Well, that depends if you are applying early or not. 

Here are the Georgetown deadlines : 

• Early Action: November 1
• Regular Decision: January 10 

Consider that you need to complete all of the Georgetown requirements by the application deadline of your choosing. Since Georgetown has its own application portal, applicants will first submit a quick application that takes only a few minutes. Within a day of having done so, applicants will get instructions on how to submit the supplements and the rest of the application. 

Check out a full list of the requirements, deadlines, and decision result dates in order to best plan your application process. Additionally, read this article for important information about the application process at Georgetown. 

How do I make my Georgetown essays stand out?

With a 12% acceptance rate and a #22 spot on the National Universities list, you’re competing with top candidates when you apply to Georgetown. So, your essays are what will truly let your personality shine and allow admissions to envision you on campus. That is, of course, if you write some stellar Georgetown essays. 

The Georgetown University supplemental essays have distinct prompts. However, while the content may be completely different, the best Georgetown supplemental essays will accomplish similar things. So, how can you wow admissions with your Georgetown University essays?

Here are 3 tips for writing a memorable Georgetown essay:

Tips for A Memorable Georgetown University Essay

1. demonstrate skills that admissions values..

Admissions explicitly says on their website that they value students who show resilience, ambition, and motivation. Use your essays to demonstrate these qualities. Of course, don’t make up experiences or try to push yourself into a box trying to impress admissions. Draw on your personal experiences to show personal reflection, curiosity, and passion. 

2. Choose your topic carefully.

This goes for every one of the Georgetown essay prompts. It doesn’t necessarily matter what you write about, but rather what it means to you. Brainstorm ideas to come up with topics that show who you are. You’re aiming to impress admissions, but you also want to be authentic. Choose topics that excite you and display your unique qualities. 

3. Get creative.

Ideally, you’re captivating your reader right from the start. Spend time coming up with a hook or choosing an engaging anecdote to immerse the reader in your essay. The Georgetown supplemental essays shouldn’t read as an objective, academic essay. Feel free to get creative and show off your writing skills; just make sure that you fully answer the prompt!

CollegeAdvisor has plenty of resources to help you prepare for application season! Check out this webinar in order to better understand what Georgetown looks for in applicants. You’ll get helpful tips on how to complete your application from former admissions officers. 

Georgetown Essay – 5 Takeaways

In this Georgetown Essay guide, we’ve gone over the required Georgetown essay prompts that all applicants will need to complete. If you’re considering how to get into Georgetown, know that academics and the Georgetown supplemental essays play an important role in the admissions process. No matter your approach, the best way to get ahead and write a captivating Georgetown essay is by giving yourself plenty of time to do so. 

Since we’ve covered a lot of information in this Georgetown Essay guide, here are 5 Key Takeaways:

5 Key Takeaways for a Georgetown University Essay Guide

1. georgetown university has its own unique application portal..

This means that your school-specific, personal, and extracurricular activities essay will each be submitted via the university’s application portal. Make sure you submit the first part of the application as soon as possible in order to be able to set up an account and get started on your supplements!

2. There are 3 required Georgetown essays.

While all students will respond to two of the same Georgetown essay prompts, the third will vary depending on the school you’re applying to. However, you don’t need to be 100% sure of your major to write a great school-specific essay. The purpose of this Georgetown essay is mainly to learn more about your academic interests and future goals.

3. Georgetown is a competitive institution.

This means every part of your application matters! Yes, academics and extracurriculars are important, however, so are your essays. Be mindful of the topics you write about in your Georgetown supplemental essays. Each Georgetown essay should add new information to your application that complements your candidate profile. 

4. Complete all the application requirements.

No matter how wonderful your Georgetown essays are, it won’t matter if admissions never reads them. Make sure that you know all of the requirements needed to complete the application. Give yourself plenty of time to get letters of recommendation and write your Georgetown essays. 

Your Georgetown supplemental essays should reflect who you are. Be genuine when writing your essays. Show you are a self-reflective, ever-evolving, and curious human being. Of course, think carefully about what traits, values, and experiences you want to highlight in your application. Show the best parts of who you are and how you’d enrich the campus community.

Writing the Georgetown University supplemental essays can be a stressful part of the application process. But, you’re certainly not alone! CollegeAdvisor has plenty of Georgetown-specific resources such as this webinar to help you craft a competitive application. Remember that reading Georgetown essay examples will help you get inspired to write your own. Of course, when reading Georgetown essay examples, personal statement examples , or any other essay examples, don’t try to mimic stories or ideas. Simply use them as inspiration and motivation in order to tell your story.

We hope this guide has given you some helpful insights into how to craft your Georgetown supplemental essays – good luck!

This essay guide was written by Sarah Kaminski. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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A Guide to the Georgetown Essays 2023-2024

October 23, 2023

Georgetown University continues to hold its place as one of the country's top universities. Securing admission to this esteemed school is no easy feat, as Georgetown boasts an acceptance rate of just 12%. Whether you aspire to join their renowned undergraduate business program or envision yourself achieving the same level of success as notable  alumni Bill Clinton and Bradley Cooper, one hurdle stands in your way: the Georgetown essays 2023-2024.

Unlike many other universities, Georgetown University does not utilize the Common Application or its personal statement prompts. Instead, they provide their own unique set of essays, designed to gain insight into your character and passions. Whether you're applying to Georgetown College, the School of Nursing and Health Studies, the Walsh School of Foreign Service, or the McDonough School of Business, crafting compelling responses to the Georgetown essays 2023-2024 is essential to setting yourself apart from the competition and positioning yourself as an indispensable candidate.

Georgetown Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

Please elaborate on any special talents or skills you would like to highlight. (250 words).

If you are really proud of one of your abilities, now is the time to show it. Georgetown wants students who bring a variety of backgrounds and interests, this essay is a good opportunity to show a new side of yourself. Your talent doesn’t have to be an external ability such as playing the piano or writing sonnets. Neither is it required that you have received an award for this talent!

You can write about an internal characteristic such as an easy facility for making friends with new people. Or it can be something quirky like being a phenomenal cartoonist. In fact, it is better if the skill you mention is unique because your Georgetown essays 2023-2024 need to establish you as a memorable candidate. For questions like this, you don’t want to answer with a typical talent, or an ambiguous characteristic. We can assure you that many of your peers are going to be talented writers, musicians, and singers. You need to bring your own exceptional spin. As for personal characteristics, asserting that a trait like kindness is your greatest asset is frankly boring and vague. Think about what differentiates you.

The main point of your essay should emphasize why this talent or skill is meaningful to you. Why are you particularly proud of this talent? Make sure you’ve addressed all parts of the prompt. Is it a natural skill, or did it take time to develop? Will you continue to use this talent in your future goals and career? What have you learned about yourself while pursuing this skill? Let the reader understand why this talent matters so much, and exactly why it’s an admirable ability.

Briefly discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved. (approximately 1/2 page, single-spaced) 

Each year, Georgetown receives thousands of applications from students with stellar grades. By asking such a question through the Georgetown essays 2023-2024, the school is interested to know the kind of impact you’ve made in your community in order to distinguish you from the rest of the applicants. The school wants to know what part of your current high school career holds the most significance to you and how that in turn will influence the way you contribute to the Georgetown community. By asking this question, Georgetown wants to know the type of leader you are, how you collaborate with others, and what you care about the most.

To think about the activity you want to elaborate on, take a look at your activities list. A question like this should highlight one of the extracurriculars listed at or near the top of your activities list. In the activities section, you only had 150 characters, including spaces to describe what you did. But if it truly is an activity that has mattered, there’s far more to say. Reflect on what kind of leader you were while participating in the activity, if it’s an initiative that you started, why it is important to you, and the people you connected with. Half of a page is about 250 words, so really focus your answer on the impact rather than spending too much time describing what you did as part of the activity.

As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief personal or creative essay which you feel best describes you and reflects on your own background, identity, skills, and talents. (approximately 1 page, single-spaced)

While the previous question highlights what you’ve done and how you’ve made an impact, this question attempts to get more to the core of who you are. Alongside evaluating your academic achievements, Georgetown especially considers your “accomplishments outside of the classroom, demonstrated commitment to the broader community, and personal qualities such as resiliency, motivation and, ambition are certainly considered.” They want to see whether you possess qualities that can not only uniquely add to the Georgetown community but benefit from it as well. 

It can be difficult to figure out where to even begin brainstorming this question — you can probably name a few different points or facets of your life that you consider core to your personality and character. To write this essay, it would be wise to write about the same topic as the Common App personal statement . Since Georgetown admissions officers won’t be looking at your Common App, it’s absolutely okay to draw from your personal statement, as that essay is also about a story that is completely unique to you. This prompt provides you with a chance to tell a story that doesn’t apply to 99% of other students. Your response could also focus on a part of your background that has shaped you or it could highlight an experience that you believe distinguishes you from your peers. The prompt also says you can get creative with your essay, so don’t be afraid to think out of the box. Unlike the Common App, which isn’t school-specific, you can even add a sentence or two at the end of this prompt as you’re only submitting this response to Georgetown!

School-Specific Prompts

Applicants to georgetown college:, a liberal arts education from the college of arts & sciences involves encounters with new concepts and modes of inquiry. describe something (a class, a book, an event, etc.) that changed your thinking. (applicants to the sciences, mathematics, public policy or languages are encouraged to include examples related to that field.).

In order to create a powerful and impactful response that truly captures your insatiable thirst for knowledge and unwavering eagerness to explore new ideas, it is essential to carefully select a class, book, or event that embodies these qualities. Reflect on an experience that not only challenged your preconceived beliefs and assumptions, but also compelled you to reassess your perspective and actively seek fresh approaches to problems. Use this opportunity to showcase your openness to intellectual growth and your ability to critically analyze your own viewpoints.

When reflecting on your experience, make sure to establish a strong connection between that encounter and the education you hope to receive at Georgetown's College of Arts & Sciences. Explore how this experience aligns with Georgetown's focus on nurturing critical thinking, interdisciplinary studies, and engagement with innovative ideas. Emphasize the ways in which this encounter has expanded your knowledge and enhanced your ability to think critically and creatively.

Remember to utilize vivid details and personal anecdotes to make your story compelling and unforgettable. By painting a vivid picture of your journey, you will engage the reader and allow them to connect with your transformative experience on a deeper level. Delve into how this transformative experience has impacted you as an individual. Reflect on the valuable insights you gained about yourself and how this change has influenced your goals, aspirations, or values. Express how this experience has shaped your character, broadened your perspective, and ignited a desire for personal and intellectual growth. This reflection will demonstrate your self-awareness and your ability to learn and grow from your experiences.

Georgetown highly values intellectual curiosity, a commitment to personal growth, and a desire to engage with novel ideas. Your essay should vividly demonstrate these qualities and illustrate how you would be an invaluable asset to their academic community. Showcasing your passion for learning, your ability to think critically, and your eagerness to contribute to the academic discourse will make you a standout candidate for admission.

Applicants to the School of Nursing and Health Studies:

Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying health care. please specifically address your intended major (health care management & policy, human science, global health, or nursing)..

Georgetown knows that all students applying to the School of Nursing and Health Studies have a passion for medicine, want to help people, and imagine a career for themselves in healthcare. This question asks you to dig deeper. What makes your specific interest in the field unique? The school wants to see that you have done your research on Georgetown’s nursing school specifically and understand the resources that make the college unique. 

In this essay — without overlapping with the previous question about who you are — you have to expand on a story related to your love for medicine that only applies to you. Lots of students may have been inspired by their own or their relatives’ illnesses, while others might have realized their calling for the profession through an internship junior year. Since you have about 500 words you can write in detail about how your interest in medicine originated, the ways in which you explored the interest further both academically and through extracurriculars, and then delve more into how your choice of major at Georgetown can help you reach your aspirations. Why Health Care Management & Policy, and why at Georgetown? Make sure the reader understands that you understand the school’s offerings and resources and that you’re ready to make the most of them.

Applicants to the Walsh School of Foreign Service:

The walsh school of foreign service was founded more than a century ago to prepare generations of leaders to solve global problems. what is motivating you to dedicate your undergraduate studies to a future in service to the world.

The Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown is one of the best known schools in the world for studying international affairs. Admissions officers use this prompt to understand both your personality, character, and values. The School of Foreign Service wants to see where your priorities lie, what your goals are, and how an education in one of the school’s unique majors such as Regional and Comparative Studies and International Political Economy can help you get there. The school is looking for ambitious, open-minded, and curious individuals, and using this prompt among the Georgetown essays 2023-2024 can be an effective way of doing so.

If you’ve answered the 4th prompt among the Common App personal statement essays ( Describe a problem you’ve solved or a problem you’d like to solve.) , you can write a similar response here. Remember that while this question asks for a current global issue, you’re still writing supplemental essays for your application. This prompt is less about what problem you’ve chosen, and more about getting to know what’s important to you and how you react when faced with one. Moreover, since it doesn’t have to examine a problem the world has already solved, you can use this prompt to delve deeper into your academic interests, specifically within the Walsh School. Is your desire to end climate change connected with your selection of the college’s Science, Technology & International Affairs major? Carefully choose an issue that shows your personal stake, as well as conveys you as an individual aware of the world around them.

Applicants to the McDonough School of Business:

The mcdonough school of business is a national and global leader in providing graduates with essential ethical, analytical, financial and global perspectives. please discuss your motivations for studying business at georgetown..

As one of the top undergraduate business schools in the United States, the McDonough School wants to know how you hope to benefit from a business degree from Georgetown specifically. They want to know what you want from a business degree at this stage — how will you take advantage of Georgetown’s hands-on opportunities? What impact have you made on your community and what are you bringing to the classroom? How will you add to the diversity of your cohort?

The word limit allows you to go into details about discovering your love for not just business — but your specific interest in the discipline. Whether it’s marketing or accounting, ask yourself questions to start brainstorming exactly what motivates you. Was there one instance that catalyzed your passion and goals? How have you explored the subject of your interest since then? How has your curiosity about the topic grown? The majority of your essay should be dedicated to tying your interest in with what McDonough has to offer. Note which professor you can’t wait to learn from or a class that stands out to you on your way to becoming a future entrepreneur.

Additional Tips for Writing the Georgetown Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

Now that you’ve taken a look at the prompts for the Georgetown supplemental essays , here are a few tips to help your brainstorming process: 

• Don’t underestimate the power of your extracurriculars : Admissions officers want to know what makes you tick outside the classroom. Don’t just shrug off the first essay and repeat information word for word from what you’ve already included in your activities list. They want to know about your perspective and identity. Your activities could have shifted your views in a way that you might not have even realized before sitting down to write the essay. And you won’t be able to analyze their impact properly if you don’t look at them from a more nuanced angle.
• Research both the college of your choice and the university as a whole: While you definitely have to go in-depth to understand what makes the college of your choice within Georgetown special, it’s also essential that you understand what makes Georgetown unique. This means understanding its identity and values , researching its unique opportunities, and really knowing why you think you would be a good fit. The fit automatically shines through in your writing if you’ve worked to authentically connect your research to your interest in the school.

Georgetown University is a dream school for many students. Naturally, the competition is not easy. To help admissions officers understand what you can bring to campus and how the school can help you grow and thrive, take advantage of these prompts to explain what makes you unique. With the right amount of research, the extracurriculars and grades to back it up, and passion for your field of interest, you can give yourself a fair shot at this well-esteemed university.

If you are looking for a college admissions counselor to help maximize your chances of getting into your dream school, we can help! InGenius Prep has helped more than 6,000 students around the world gain admission into the most competitive schools including Harvard, Yale, MIT, Johns Hopkins, Cornell, NYU, and more. Sign up for a free strategy call today and join the 6,000+ students we've helped get accepted into their dream school.

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Georgetown University is one of the most selective universities in the country, but understanding the application and what Georgetown admissions officers are looking for when they review your application can give you a serious leg up over the rest of the competition.

In this guide, we go over everything you need to know about the Georgetown University application, including what you need to submit, every Georgetown application deadline, what admissions officers are looking for when they review applications, and how you can make each key part of your application stand out from the pack.

Key Info About the Georgetown Application

It's important to know the key information about the Georgetown University application early on so that you'll have plenty of time to gather and submit all the materials you need before deadlines.

Where to Find the Georgetown Application: You can find the Georgetown application here . This page also has links to application FAQs and deadlines.

How to Submit the Application: When you've completed the Georgetown application, you can submit it by hitting the "Submit" button at the end of the application. SAT and/or ACT scores must be sent directly to Georgetown.

When to Submit Your Application: It's very important to know each Georgetown application deadline because missing just one could mean your application won't be looked at. Below is every Georgetown University application deadline you need to be aware of:

Source: Georgetown Office of Undergraduate Admissions

Looking at the above chart, you can see that the Georgetown University application deadline for Early Action is November 1, and the deadline for Regular Decision is January 10, though on their website Georgetown does recommend submitting your application earlier if you can.

Early action is not binding, which means that, even if you apply Early Action to Georgetown, you can still apply to and accept a place at other schools. Early Action just gives you the benefit of knowing Georgetown's decision earlier (although some Early Action applicants get deferred to the Regular Decision pool).

How to Apply to Georgetown

Completing and submitting your Georgetown application is a fairly straightforward process. Below are the seven steps you need to follow. Georgetown recommends you complete the first three steps as soon as possible, ideally over the summer or in early fall.

Step 1: Fill Out and Submit the Georgetown Application

The Georgetown application can be found here, and it should only take you about 10-15 minutes to fill out. It contains mostly demographic information, such as your address and contact info, including those of your parent(s).

Submitting this form allows Georgetown to create an applicant file for you, the first step in considering you for admission. It also initiates the alumni interview process (see Step 6).

At the end of this form, you'll pay the $75 application fee by inputting your credit or debit card information. If this fee is a financial burden for you, you may request a fee waiver .

Step 2: Create an Applicant Profile

After completing Step 1, you'll receive instructions within 24 hours via email on how to create an application account. You'll be able to log into this account anytime . This Georgetown account makes it possible for you to track your recommendation requests and save your work on the Application Supplement.

Here's what the Georgetown application looks like in PDF form .

Step 3: Complete the Georgetown Request for Secondary School Report, Teacher's Report, and Midyear School Report

To complete this form, you'll need to know the name and email address of both your high school counselor and the teacher writing your recommendation. After you submit these forms, those two people will each receive an email telling them what to do next so that Georgetown can receive your transcript and letter of recommendation.

Here are the PDF versions of the Secondary School Report , the Teacher's Report , and the Midyear School Report for your reference (note that you'll actually be filling these out on your Georgetown online application account described in Step 2).

Step 4: Submit the Application Supplement

You'll next need to submit the application supplement , which you can save and go back to as many times as you need. The supplement is where you'll enter info about your extracurriculars, state what area you plan on majoring in, and write your essays.

Step 5: Submit Your Standardized Test Scores

You'll need to submit SAT or ACT scores for Georgetown (they were test optional for 2020-2021 but are now required again). Georgetown's SAT code is 5244, and its ACT code is 0668.

Georgetown requires scores from all test sittings. So, for example, if you took the ACT twice and the SAT once, you'd need to submit scores from each of those three test dates, even if one or more of those scores wasn't your best. (If you took SAT Subject Tests , you'll also need to submit those scores as well.)

AP or IB scores are not required but are recommended as another way to boost your application.

Step 6: Have an Alumni Interview

All first-year applicants are required to have an interview with a Georgetown alum , provided one lives in the same city/region as they do. Georgetown does not have on-campus interviews, and if there are no alumni near you, this requirement is waived and it won't hurt your application.

You'll receive information via mail or email explaining how to set up the interview, typically two to four weeks after you complete Step 1.

Step 7: (Optional) Submit Any Supplemental Materials

If you are interested in an art, music, theater, or dance program at Georgetown, you have the option to send in supplemental materials , but this is not required.

Georgetown Application Checklist

To recap, below is everything you need to submit when you apply to Georgetown. You can use this application checklist to stay organized and make sure you've submitted all the required materials. Your application won't be considered until all the pieces below have been received by Georgetown:

• Georgetown Application
• Secondary School Report (including transcript)
• Teacher Recommendation
• Application Fee of $75.00
• SAT/ACT scores
• Alumni Interview
• (Optional) Supplemental Materials (for art, music, theater, and dance)

What Does the Georgetown Application Committee Look For? What Makes a Strong Georgetown Application?

What makes a standout Georgetown application? Like other universities, Georgetown wants to admit students that they feel will excel at their school, both academically and socially. They want students who will do well in their classes and also work well with professors, fellow students, and university groups.

Georgetown also wants to admit those who will have a positive impact on the school and the world in general, both while they're students and after they graduate.

In order to make the most accurate admissions decisions, Georgetown looks at a variety of factors that could indicate future success at the school. Below are some of the most important factors:

Academic Excellence

Georgetown wants to know you can excel in their classes, so they'll look for academic excellence in your application. There are usually three factors that show academic excellence:

• The rigor of the classes you took in high school
• Your standardized test scores

Being strong in each of these three areas proves to Georgetown that you can handle (and do well with) difficult coursework.

The next section gives more specific information on what grades and test scores you should be aiming for. If you've participated in academic competitions and done well in them, you can also show academic excellence that way.

Leadership Skills

Georgetown wants leaders at their school because leaders are more likely to have an impact at the school and after they graduate.

You can show leadership skills by taking on higher roles in extracurriculars, starting your own club or fundraiser, or gaining more responsibility at your job or internship. Anything that shows that you took initiative and were able to excel with additional responsibilities will prove that you have the potential to be a strong leader at Georgetown and beyond.

Passion for Your Future Major

Students who are passionate about what they are studying are more likely to get better grades and do well in their careers after they graduate.

In order to prove your excitement for what you're going to study at Georgetown, your application should indicate that you've taken classes and pursued extracurriculars in that subject area during high school.

For example, if you want to major in pre-med and eventually become a doctor, your high school transcript should include lots of science- and math-oriented classes, while your extracurriculars could include activities such as being part of a science club, volunteering at a hospital, etc.

Sociability

Getting good grades is important, but Georgetown also wants students who will be part of the campus community and get along with other students. This skill makes the campus a happier place, and more engaged students often have a larger positive impact on their school.

Being involved in a group club or sports team demonstrates sociability, and the people writing your letters of recommendation can also mention your strong people skills.

5 Key Sections of the Georgetown Application and How to Do Well on Them

For a school as competitive as Georgetown, your application needs to be strong across the board. Below are the five key parts of the Georgetown application as well as tips for how you can excel on each one to impress admissions officers:

#1: High School Transcript

Your transcript shows Georgetown three essential pieces of info: which classes you took, how difficult they were, and the grades you received in them. In terms of the number of years of classes in different subjects, Georgetown recommends the following:

• Four years of English
• At least two years of social studies
• At least two years of a foreign language
• At least two years of math
• At least one year of natural science

There are additional class recommendations depending on what you want to major in at Georgetown. You can see those recommendations here.

Georgetown has rigorous classes, and they want to see applicants who have already challenged themselves by taking advanced classes in high school. If your school offers honors, AP, and/or IB classes, you should aim to take at least some of these advanced classes, especially those in the field you plan to major in.

It's also important to get high grades in those classes. Accepted Georgetown students have an average unweighted GPA of about 3.9 . This means that, in addition to taking advanced classes, you'll need to get practically all A's. H igh grades are most important in classes related to your future major.

#2: Standardized Test Scores

While Georgetown has no minimum score requirements for the SAT/ACT, because admission is so competitive, you should aim for a high standardized test score.

A safe score to aim for is the 75th percentile score for admitted Georgetown students. Meeting this score for either the SAT or ACT means you will have scored higher than 75% of other admitted students, which puts you in a strong position during the admissions process.

A 75th percentile score for Georgetown is either a 34 on the ACT or a 1530 on the SAT . You can get scores lower than this and still get accepted, but these are solid goal scores to try to aim for.

AP scores, particularly those related to your intended major, are another great way to show off your academic prowess. Aim for at least a 3 in each test, and ideally a 4 or 5.

#3: Letters of Recommendation

You'll need just one letter of recommendation for Georgetown, so try to ask a teacher who knows you well and thinks highly of you. A strong letter of rec will include specific examples of your academic abilities and personal skills; it will also explain why you're an excellent applicant for Georgetown.

Speak to the person you'd like to write your letter fairly early, ideally at the end of your junior year or beginning of your senior year, especially since Georgetown recommends filling out the Teacher's Report (which is sent to your recommender) early on in the application process. Check out our guide for more information on who to ask to write your letter of recommendation and a step-by-step guide on how to ask.

Georgetown requires four essays. The first essay requires a short, 250 word response, and the second should be about half a page (single-spaced). The other two essays should be approximately one single-spaced page each. Below are the current Georgetown essay prompts:

Special Talents: Please indicate any special talents or skills you possess. You should write in either paragraph or bulleted-list format (250 words).

Short Essay: Briefly (approximately one-half page, single-spaced) discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved.

Essay 1: As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief essay, either personal or creative, which you feel best describes you.

Essay 2: The prompt for this essay depends on what you plan on majoring in.

• Applicants to Georgetown College: What does it mean to you to be educated? How might Georgetown College help you achieve this aim? (Applicants to the Sciences and Mathematics or the Faculty of Languages and Linguistics should address their chosen course of study).
• Applicants to the School of Nursing & Health Studies: Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying health care. Please specifically address your intended major (Global Health, Health Care Management & Policy, Human Science, or Nursing).
• Applicants to the Walsh School of Foreign Service: The Walsh School of Foreign Service was founded more than a century ago to prepare generations of leaders to solve global problems. What is motivating you to dedicate your undergraduate studies to a future in service to the world?
• Applicants to the McDonough School of Business: The McDonough School of Business is a national and global leader in providing graduates with essential ethical, analytical, financial and global perspectives. Please discuss your motivations for studying business at Georgetown.

In the first three Georgetown essay prompts, you get the chance to discuss yourself and why you're a strong candidate for admission. Be sure to use specific examples that let admissions officers see what you care about and why you would be an asset to Georgetown. They want to see someone who is passionate about something and will use that passion to excel in school and have a positive impact on Georgetown.

The final essay gives you a chance to show Georgetown what your future plans are. Having an idea of what you want to study and how your education will help you achieve your goals indicates that you're thinking ahead and have big plans for the future.

Be sure to reference specific resources at Georgetown, such as study abroad options, student groups, or research opportunities you're interested in. This shows that you've done your research on Georgetown and know how to make the most of what it offers to help you achieve your goals.

Check out this step-by-step guide for more info on how to write a great college essay.

#5: Extracurriculars

Your extracurriculars are also an important part of your Georgetown application. The best way to stand out with your extracurriculars is to emphasize your passion and leadership skills. You can do this by pursuing extracurriculars in a field related to your future major, sticking with them, and achieving leadership roles in them.

Learn more about the types of extracurriculars you'll need to have to get into top-tier schools.

Recap: Georgetown University Application

Georgetown is a very competitive school, but understanding its application process and what admissions officers are looking for can help increase your odds of getting in.

There are multiple parts of the Georgetown application, and it's extremely important to know each major deadline in the application process. You'll need to submit either SAT or ACT scores, and there are also several Georgetown essay prompts you'll need to complete.

When looking over your application, admissions officers want applicants whom they believe will excel academically and develop strong personal relationships at Georgetown.

When applying to a school as competitive as Georgetown is, you really can't have many weak areas in your application. It's vital to go through each key area—including your grades, standardized test scores, letter of recommendation, essays, and extracurriculars—and try to make them as strong as possible to maximize your chances of getting accepted to Georgetown.

What's Next?

Wondering what a good SAT score is? Learn how to set a goal score based on the schools you want to get into.

Want to know how to make your extracurriculars stand out even more? Check out this guide to four amazing extracurricular activities and learn why they're so impressive to colleges.

Trying to decide between community college classes and AP classes? Which one looks better on college applications? Read our guide for a complete overview of both .

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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How to Respond to the 2023/2024 Georgetown Supplemental Essay Prompts

Cece Gilmore is a Content Writer at Scholarships360. Cece earned her undergraduate degree in Journalism and Mass Communications from Arizona State University. While at ASU, she was the education editor as well as a published staff reporter at Downtown Devil. Cece was also the co-host of her own radio show on Blaze Radio ASU.

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The Georgetown University supplemental essays are an important part of the overall application. Georgetown has a 12% acceptance rate , so your very best writing is required here. Remember, you are not alone in this Georgetown supplemental essay writing process! Keep reading our guide to learn more about how to best respond to the Georgetown supplemental essays. 

Breaking down the Georgetown supplemental essays

Georgetown requires all applicants to respond to three prompts. 

Here is a breakdown of the word count for the Georgetown supplemental essays: 

• Short Essay – approximately ½ page, single spaced
• Essay 1- approximately 1 page, single spaced
• Essay 2- approximately 1 page, single spaced, response based on intended school

Georgetown Supplemental essay questions for all applicants

Short essay.

Briefly discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved (½ page, single spaced)

This is an opportunity to expand on an extracurricular activity that you are passionate about and have participated in the most. 

Some questions to help brainstorm your response could include: 

• Did you receive any leadership roles in this activity? 
• Why do you love this activity? 
• When did you become interested in this activity? 

Once you establish your main activity, write a story surrounding this event and detail a narrative! Do your best to connect back to Georgetown. Think of Georgetown clubs you want to become involved in to continue to pursue your interests. For example, if you love participating in track and field, but do not want to participate at the college level, discuss joining the Georgetown University Running Club. Additionally, try to really show not tell how significant this activity is in your life. For example, you could detail a narrative of how going for a run allows you to clear your mind and helps you cope with stress! Ultimately, this is your time to expand upon a passion you have and why you are passionate about it! 

As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief personal or creative essay which you feel best describes you and reflects on your own background, identity, skills and talents. (1 page, single spaced)

Although this is one of the first questions asked by Georgetown, it may be smart to save this question for the end. This is because there are a lot of prompts that Georgetown asks that reveal many of your interests and skills. 

Therefore, to ensure you are not repeating yourself in your responses, answer this question last. Every essay you are responding to should reveal something new! 

Once you are ready to answer this question, brainstorm some of the following questions: 

• What is missing from your application that you want to highlight about yourself? 
• Are there any skills you possess that have not been touched upon? 
• Is there a leadership position you were involved in that you want to detail? 
• What would you do if you had to go on stage at a talent show? 

It is important to use this question as an outlet to showcase your skills, talents, and interests. 

Some examples of some skills, talents, or interests can be: 

• Playing an instrument 
• Participating in a sport
• Speaking a different language
• Mastering a video game
• Able to do something others cannot

You should be not just stating what talents you have, but also a short narrative or story surrounding each skill. Describe how you discovered this skill or how long it took you to become the expert you are today. 

Therefore, it is important to be short and thoughtful with your word choices. Eliminate any filler words and only describe the important parts of your story.

This prompt is quite broad, which can make it challenging to respond to. It is important to try and come up with a topic for this essay that has not been discussed in your application thus far. Remember, Georgetown has most likely already read about your academic and athletic achievements. So, try to be more creative in your response!

So what should you write about? 

To help you brainstorm creative topics for this essay, think of the following questions: 

• What are you known as in your friend group? (Exp: the artsy one, the funny one…) 
• Are there any quirks you possess? 
• Do you belong to any communities? 
• What kind of background did you come from? 
• Have you ever had to overcome anything? 
• What are you passionate about? 
• Is there anything that makes you stand out from other applicants? 

If you are still having trouble coming up with a topic idea for this essay, do not fret. Remember, Georgetown does not use the Common App . This means that you could potentially use your response to the Common App as an answer to this essay.

If you are going to use your Common App essay response to answer this question make sure you are: 

• Not repeating yourself in your application
• Answering the question entirely
• Revealing a new piece of information about yourself

Essentially, Georgetown wants to be able to connect with your application and your personal and unique experiences. Therefore, be yourself and always reveal new things!

Essay #2: Georgetown school-specific essay questions

Each school-specific prompt should not exceed one-page, single-spaced. 

Georgetown College essay

A liberal arts education from the College of Arts & Sciences involves encounters with new concepts and modes of inquiry. Describe something (a class, a book, an event, etc) that changed your thinking. (Applicants to the sciences, mathematics, public policy or languages are encouraged to include examples related to that field.) 

Georgetown College admissions wants to hear all about your way of thinking! Try to brainstorm a time in which your mind was changed – this can be anything from reading a book to seeing a TED Talk to having a conversation with a teacher. Whatever event, be sure you are picking one that most closely aligns to your intended major such as mathematics or public policy. Remember, you want to show, not tell! So describe this change of thinking through a story! Try to include details to bring your experience to life such as reading your book while driving through the mountains or seeing a TED talk in class and immediately having millions of ideas rushing through your brain. Additionally, it may be wise to describe your thinking prior to the event and then after the event. This will show how exactly you have changed and how much. Now, go one step further and connect back to Georgetown! Doing so will impress the admissions officers and truly demonstrate how you are a perfect fit for the Georgetown community. It’s a good idea to allude to how you will continue to take this new way of thinking to the Georgetown community. 

Questions to consider

• What is a time in which you changed your thinking on a topic? 
• What did you learn from changing your thinking? 
• How will you take what you have learned and apply it while at Georgetown? 

School of Health essay

Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying health care at Georgetown University. Please specifically address your intended major (Global Health, Health Care Management & Policy, or Human Science).

This essay question should be fairly easy if you have a passion for studying health care. Ultimately, you just need to explain why you want to study health care! And specifically, why you want to study health care at Georgetown. So, write a story describing your interest in global health, healthcare management & policy or human science! After detailing this narrative, go into detail about why Georgetown is a perfect fit for you. Describe any specific classes, professors, clubs, or the location of DC to demonstrate your interest in Georgetown. The most important thing is that you are tying your response back to Georgetown! 

• Why do you want to major in your chosen major?
• What do you aspire to do with your degree?
• Why did you choose to apply to Georgetown? 

School of Nursing essay

Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying health care. Please specifically address your intended major Nursing. 

If you are considering the School of Nursing, then you obviously have a passion for helping people. Therefore, you should not focus on this fact in your response. Remember, these Georgetown supplemental essays are an opportunity to make yourself stand out from other applicants – so try to really think about this question. 

In order to avoid any cliches, try thinking of the following questions to help you brainstorm your response: 

• What has been an eye-opening experience you have had that has influenced your decision to apply to the School of Nursing? 
• Why the Georgetown School of Nursing? 
• Why do you want to help people? 
• Was there a specific instance in which you realized nursing was your calling? 
• Is there anyone close to you who works in the medical or nursing field? 

After brainstorming, begin your response by describing a narrative. Tell your story about why you became interested in nursing and studying in the medical field. Whatever your story may be, use that as the backbone of your response for this essay. 

Try to answer the following questions in your essay: 

• What have you learned from this passion? 
• What change do you hope to bring to your future profession? 
• What do you hope to do with this degree? 
• What will you become involved in while at Georgetown? 

The most important thing is that you are tying your response back to Georgetown. Specify how and why Georgetown’s program and resources are the best fit for you. 

See also : Top nursing scholarships

Walsh School of Foreign Service essay

The Walsh School of Foreign Service was founded more than a century ago to prepare generations of leaders to solve global problems. What is motivating you to dedicate your undergraduate studies to a future in service to the world?

International service is a rather uncommon major and profession to go into. Therefore, there is most likely a story behind your decision to choose this school. 

Start by brainstorming the following questions: 

• What inspired you to pursue this major? 
• Is there someone who inspired you to pursue this particular degree? 
• What do you want to do with this degree? 

Now that you have a good idea of what you want to write about, detail exactly what degree you are intended to pursue. Communicate what your goals are for this degree. What do you hope to accomplish? 

In addition, describe how you plan to contribute to change the world for the better. 

Afterwards, connect back to Georgetown by writing about the programs, clubs, and/or opportunities you hope to take advantage of while studying there. 

McDonough School of Business essay

The McDonough School of Business is a national and global leader in providing graduates with essential ethical, analytical, financial and global perspectives. Please discuss your motivation for studying business at Georgetown.

In order to stand out from other applicants, begin by detailing any background you may have in business. This could be anything from taking a business class in high school to creating your own brand that went viral. Once you describe your business background, connect back to the McDonough School of Business specifically. 

There are a lot of business schools out in the country, so why Georgetown? In order to accurately answer this question, you should have done adequate research on the following aspects of the McDonough School of Business: 

• Class sizes
• Travel opportunities
• Clubs and organizations

Becoming familiar with these aspects of the school allows you to write about the factors that are most important to you. Be open and honest–which factors appeal to you most,  and why? 

Final thoughts on responding to the Georgetown supplemental essays

The Georgetown supplemental essays are quite challenging, but they are completely worth the effort.  Georgetown heavily relies upon the supplemental essay responses to select applicants, so it is important that your application is well-rounded. Make sure that you are not repeating anything when writing your essays. In addition, always connect your experiences back to Georgetown by detailing what you want to become involved in on campus. 

Additional resources

Are you curious about how many colleges to apply to , how to choose a college , or when to take the SAT/ACT ? Do not worry because Scholarships360 has you covered! In addition, we have numerous resources to help you through the rest of your college essays. Check out our guides on how to write an essay about yourself , how to write a successful admissions essay , and how to write 250 or 500 word essays. Throughout your college application journey, make sure that you apply to all the scholarships you qualify for! 

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The Ultimate Guide to 2022-23 Georgetown Essays

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Georgetown Essay Prompts 2023-2024

By Eric Eng

Dreaming of strolling through the historic halls of Georgetown University? You’re not alone! This esteemed institution isn’t just about prestigious academics; it’s a vibrant community eager to welcome diverse voices and unique stories. And guess what? Your journey to becoming a Hoya begins with a pen and paper—or, in today’s world, a keyboard and screen.

This blog will discuss Georgetown’s essay prompts for the 2023-2024 academic year. Think of these essays as your personal spotli ght—a chance to shine, share your story, and show the admissions committee why you’re not just another applicant, but a future Georgetown star. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a nervous note-taker, we’ve got the insights and tips to help you transform your thoughts into compelling narratives that resonate with the Georgetown spirit.

Does Georgetown University Accept Common Application?

No, Georgetown University does not accept the Common Application . Instead, Georgetown has its own application system . Applicants must use the Georgetown Application , which is available on the university’s website. This unique application process allows Georgetown to tailor its application to better fit the specific needs and focus areas of the university and its various programs. As part of this application, students are required to complete Georgetown’s own set of essay prompts, which are distinct from the Common App essay prompts .

How Many Essay Prompts Does Georgetown Have?

Georgetown University has a total of three main essay prompts for all applicants in the 2023-2024 application cycle. Additionally, there are specific prompts for each of the different schools within the university, such as the Georgetown College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Health, the School of Nursing, the Walsh School of Foreign Service, and the McDonough School of Business. 

Each of these schools has its own unique prompt, tailored to the specific interests and focus areas of the programs offered. Therefore, the total number of essay prompts a student will need to respond to depends on the specific school within Georgetown to which they are applying.

What are the 2023-2024 Georgetown Essay Prompts?

Briefly discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved. (1/2 page, single-spaced) 

As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief personal or creative essay which you feel best describes you and reflects on your own background, identity, skills, and talents. (1 page, single-spaced)

School-Specific Prompts:

Georgetown College: 

A liberal arts education from the College of Arts & Sciences involves encounters with new concepts and modes of inquiry. Describe something (a class, a book, an event, etc.) that changed your thinking. (Applicants to the sciences, mathematics, public policy or languages are encouraged to include examples related to that field.) (approximately one page, single-spaced each)

School of Health: 

Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying healthcare. Please specifically address your intended major (Global Health, Health Care Management & Policy, or Human Science).

School of Nursing: 

Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying health care. Please specifically address your intended major Nursing.

Walsh School of Foreign Service: 

The Walsh School of Foreign Service was founded more than a century ago to prepare generations of leaders to solve global problems. What is motivating you to dedicate your undergraduate studies to a future in service to the world?

McDonough School of Business: 

The McDonough School of Business is a national and global leader in providing graduates with essential ethical, analytical, financial and global perspectives. Please discuss your motivations for studying business at Georgetown.

How to Answer the Georgetown Essay Prompts

Main prompt 1:, understanding the prompt:.

This prompt is an opportunity for applicants to showcase a significant aspect of their personal development, interests, and contributions outside of the classroom. This could include anything from a leadership position in a student organization to a personal passion project that you’ve been working on. The goal is to show the admissions committee who you are as a person and what you’re passionate about outside of academics.

Crafting Your Response:

1. Depth of Involvement and Personal Growth: The prompt asks for the activity in which the student has been “most involved,” signaling an interest in depth rather than breadth of engagement. Students should reflect on an activity in which they invested significant time and effort, explaining how this commitment shaped their character, skills, or perspectives. 

This could be a leadership role in a club, a sport they are passionate about, or a project they led during a summer program. The focus should be on how the activity contributed to their personal growth, such as developing leadership skills, learning to collaborate, or overcoming challenges.

2. Impact and Contributions: Beyond personal growth, it’s important to discuss the impact the student had through their involvement. This could include how they improved the club or team, initiated a new project or event, or made a difference in their community. For instance, if they were part of a community service project, they could detail how their efforts contributed to the community’s welfare and what they learned about social issues.

3. Passion and Interest Alignment: The essay should reflect the student’s genuine interest and passion for the activity. This is an opportunity to reveal what drives them and how their interests align with their broader goals or values. For example, if they’re involved in environmental activism, they can discuss how this reflects their commitment to sustainability and their aspiration to pursue environmental studies.

4. Lessons and Future Application: Students should consider what lessons they have learned from their involvement and how these lessons will be applicable in their future, especially in a college setting like Georgetown. This could involve discussing skills like time management, resilience, or creative problem-solving, and how these skills will help them contribute to the Georgetown community.

In crafting a response, students should aim for a narrative that is authentic and reflective, providing specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate their points. The goal is to give admissions officers a clear and compelling picture of who they are, what they care about, and how they engage with the world around them.

Main Prompt 2:

The Georgetown essay prompt for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle is an invitation for applicants to share a more personalized and comprehensive view of themselves beyond their academic achievements and extracurricular activities. The prompt asks applicants to “tell us about something that is important to you, and why.”

This could be anything from a personal passion to a deeply held belief. The goal of the prompt is to give applicants a chance to show the admissions committee who they are as a person, beyond their academic records.

1. Reflect on Your Unique Background and Identity: This prompt allows students to delve into aspects of their identity that have shaped them. Students should reflect on their cultural, familial, or community background, considering how these elements have contributed to their perspectives, values, and goals. For example, if a student grew up in a multicultural household or has been significantly involved in their cultural community, they could discuss how these experiences have enriched their understanding of diversity and shaped their worldview.

2. Highlight Personal Challenges and Growth: Applicants can use this opportunity to discuss personal challenges they’ve faced and how they’ve grown from these experiences. This might include overcoming personal adversity, dealing with a significant life event, or managing a unique challenge that isn’t apparent in other parts of their application. The key is to focus on the learning and growth that came from these experiences, showing resilience, maturity, and self-awareness.

3. Showcase Creative Talents or Unique Skills: If the student has a particular creative talent or skill, this is the place to share it. This could be anything from writing, art, music, to less conventional skills like coding games, robotics, or even a unique hobby. The goal is to illustrate passion and dedication, perhaps by describing the process of developing this talent or skill, and how it reflects their personality or has impacted their life.

4. Discuss Impactful Experiences or Moments of Realization: Students might choose to focus on a specific event or experience that had a profound impact on their life. This could be a volunteering experience, a significant project, travel, or an encounter that changed their perspective. They should aim to describe why this experience was meaningful and how it has influenced their aspirations or approach to life.

5. Connect to Georgetown’s Values and Community: While the essay is about the student, subtly relating their experiences and values to those of Georgetown University can be effective. If aspects of their identity, experiences, or aspirations align with Georgetown’s commitment to diversity, service, or intellectual exploration, making this connection can help illustrate why they are a good fit for the university.

In all of these points, the key for students is to be authentic and introspective. The essay should give the admissions committee a window into who they are as an individual, beyond just their academic and extracurricular profile. It’s about painting a picture of a well-rounded, thoughtful individual who would contribute meaningfully to the Georgetown community.

Georgetown College Prompt

This prompt is designed to explore a student’s openness to new ideas and their ability to engage critically with different concepts and perspectives. It’s an opportunity for applicants to demonstrate how their thinking has evolved through exposure to new experiences or knowledge.

1. Identify a Transformative Experience: The prompt asks for a class, book, event, or similar experience that changed your thinking. Students should reflect on moments in their academic or personal life where they encountered a new idea or perspective that significantly altered their understanding of a subject, concept, or the world. This could be a novel that challenged their worldview, a class that introduced a new way of thinking, or an event that shifted their perspective on an important issue.

2. Detail the Initial Perspective: To effectively convey the transformation, it’s important to describe the initial thoughts or beliefs the student held before the encounter. This sets the stage for understanding the change. If it was a class or book, what did they initially think about the subject? If it was an event, what were their preconceived notions about the topic or issue involved?

3. Describe the Process of Change: The crux of the essay should focus on how the experience led to a change in thinking. This involves detailing the specific aspects of the experience that were impactful. Was it a particular argument, piece of evidence, or narrative that caused the shift? How did the student grapple with this new information or perspective? This part should also reflect a journey of intellectual or personal growth, showing how the student engaged with the challenging ideas.

4. Reflect on the Impact and Future Application: Finally, students should reflect on how this change in thinking has impacted them. Have their actions, choices, or aspirations changed as a result? How do they apply this new perspective in their daily life or future plans? Particularly for applicants to fields like sciences, mathematics, public policy, or languages, linking this new understanding to their intended field of study can be powerful, showing how their transformed perspective will enrich their contributions to their chosen field.

Students should aim to be genuine and introspective, offering a narrative that is uniquely theirs and that showcases their ability to evolve intellectually and personally. This essay is not just about the change itself, but also about the student’s capacity for growth and adaptation, essential qualities for a successful liberal arts education.

School of Health Prompt

This prompt seeks to understand the motivations and influences behind a student’s decision to pursue a career in health care. Specifically, it asks the student to reflect on the factors that have driven their interest in a particular major within the healthcare field, such as Global Health, Health Care Management & Policy, or Human Science.

1. Personal Experiences or Anecdotes: The student should begin by recounting any personal experiences that sparked their interest in health care. This could be a family member’s health challenge, a volunteer experience, or an inspiring interaction with a healthcare professional. The key is to narrate this experience in a way that clearly connects to their chosen major. For instance, if applying for Health Care Management & Policy, they might discuss how witnessing inefficiencies in a healthcare system inspired them to want to improve healthcare policies.

2. Academic and Extracurricular Interests: Linking academic subjects and extracurricular activities to their chosen major can demonstrate a sustained interest in the field. For example, if they are interested in Global Health, they might discuss how subjects like biology and global studies have shaped their understanding of health on a global scale, or how being part of a Model United Nations club deepened their understanding of international health policies.

3. Impact and Aspirations: The student should articulate what they hope to achieve in their chosen field. This could involve specific goals like contributing to groundbreaking health policy reforms, working in global health initiatives, or conducting research in human science to advance medical knowledge. This part of the essay should convey a sense of purpose and ambition.

4. Connection to Georgetown’s Program: It’s crucial to demonstrate why Georgetown University, in particular, is the right fit for their aspirations. This could involve mentioning specific courses, professors, research opportunities, or the overall philosophy of the program that aligns with their interests and goals. For instance, if interested in Human Science, they could talk about how Georgetown’s emphasis on interdisciplinary learning will help them explore the human body from both a scientific and societal perspective.

5. Reflection on Skills and Qualities: Finally, students should reflect on their personal qualities and skills, and how these will help them succeed in their chosen field and contribute to the Georgetown community. For example, qualities like empathy, a collaborative spirit, or analytical thinking are highly relevant in healthcare fields and should be linked to personal experiences or achievements.

In answering this prompt, the student should aim to weave these elements together into a cohesive narrative that not only highlights their passion and suitability for the field of health care but also underscores their unique perspective and what they can bring to Georgetown University.

School of Nursing Prompt

The prompt is seeking to understand the applicant’s motivations and experiences that have led them to pursue a career in nursing. It’s an opportunity for students to demonstrate their passion for the field, their understanding of what nursing entails, and how their personal experiences align with their career aspirations.

1. Personal Experiences and Influences: Reflect on any personal experiences that have influenced your decision to pursue nursing. This could be a personal health experience, an encounter with a nurse who made a significant impact, or witnessing the role of nurses in the healthcare system. 

Describe how these experiences gave you insights into the nursing profession and inspired your interest. Be specific about what aspects of these experiences resonated with you and how they align with your desire to become a nurse.

2. Understanding of the Nursing Role: Demonstrate your understanding of what nurses do, the challenges they face, and the essential qualities required to be successful in the field. You could discuss how your skills, qualities, or experiences (such as empathy, communication skills, resilience, or teamwork) align with the demands of the profession. This shows that your interest in nursing is informed and well-considered.

3. Educational and Professional Goals: Articulate your long-term goals in the field of nursing. What specific areas of nursing are you interested in? Are there particular populations or health issues you are passionate about addressing? Discuss how studying nursing at Georgetown will help you achieve these goals. Mention any particular programs, courses, or opportunities at Georgetown that align with your interests.

4. Contribution to the Field and Community: Reflect on how you envision contributing to the field of nursing and the broader community. Nursing is often about service to others; consider discussing your desire to impact patient care, healthcare policy, community health, or global health issues. This can include your views on advocacy, healthcare equity, and innovation in nursing.

When answering, it’s crucial to be authentic and personal. Admissions committees are looking for genuine passion and a clear understanding of the nursing profession. Your response should be a blend of personal narrative and professional insight, showing that your interest in nursing is both deeply personal and thoughtfully considered.

Walsh School of Foreign Service Prompt

The prompt from the Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University reflects their commitment to fostering a deep understanding of their applicants’ motivations and aspirations. It demonstrates the school’s emphasis on selecting candidates who are genuinely dedicated to a career in global service.

By asking students to articulate their motivations, the institution aims to identify individuals who have a clear sense of purpose and a strong commitment to making a positive impact on the world. This approach ensures that the school can attract and nurture future leaders who will contribute significantly to international affairs and global diplomacy. In essence, this prompt serves as a gateway for the school to identify and cultivate the next generation of global changemakers.

1. Personal Experiences or Inspirations: Students should reflect on personal experiences or inspirations that have shaped their interest in global affairs. This could include specific events, people (such as a family member or public figure), or experiences (like travel, volunteering, or living in different cultures) that sparked their passion for international relations. Detailing how these experiences influenced their worldview and the desire to work in service to the world helps to create a personal and compelling narrative.

2. Understanding of Global Issues: Demonstrating awareness and understanding of current global challenges is crucial. Students should identify specific issues (like climate change, human rights, international diplomacy, or global health) that they are passionate about. They should explain why these issues matter to them personally and how they hope to contribute to solutions in the future. This showcases not only their awareness but also their commitment to specific causes.

3. Career Aspirations and Goals: Applicants should articulate their long-term career goals and how these align with the mission of the Walsh School of Foreign Service. Whether they aspire to work in international diplomacy, non-governmental organizations, global policy-making, or another related field, they should clearly connect these aspirations to their motivation for choosing this path of study. This demonstrates a forward-looking and goal-oriented mindset.

4. Understanding of the Walsh School’s Offerings: Showing knowledge about what the Walsh School of Foreign Service specifically offers and how it aligns with their goals is essential. This might involve mentioning specific programs, courses, professors, extracurricular activities, or resources at Georgetown that they find appealing and relevant to their interests. This indicates that the student has done their research and is genuinely interested in what the school uniquely provides.

5. Personal Qualities and Skills: Reflect on personal qualities and skills that will help the student succeed in this field. This can include traits like resilience, adaptability, empathy, cross-cultural communication skills, or a knack for problem-solving. Explaining how these qualities have been developed over time and how they will be beneficial in a career dedicated to global service can s trengthen the essay.

In crafting their response, students should aim for authenticity, clarity, and specificity. Each point should contribute to painting a comprehensive picture of their motivations, understanding, and aspirations, making a compelling case for why they are a strong fit for the Walsh School of Foreign Service.

McDonough School of Business Prompt

The prompt for the McDonough School of Business at Georgetown University seeks to understand a candidate’s specific reasons for wanting to study business at this prestigious institution. It emphasizes the unique aspects of their program – ethical, analytical, financial, and global perspectives. A thoughtful response to this prompt should articulate a clear, personal connection to these aspects.

1. Personal Connection to Business Studies: The applicant should reflect on their personal journey and experiences that sparked their interest in business. This could be a pivotal moment, a long-standing interest, or experiences in their family or community. For instance, if a family business inspired them, they can discuss how witnessing its operations piqued their interest in business principles.

2. Interest in Ethical Business Practices: Georgetown’s emphasis on ethical perspectives in business is unique. Applicants should consider how their values align with this approach. They might discuss their views on corporate social responsibility, sustainable business practices, or ethical dilemmas in the business world. For example, if a student is passionate about environmental sustainability, they can talk about their desire to learn how to integrate sustainable practices into business models.

3. Global Business Aspirations: Given the global focus of the McDonough School, students should explore their interests in international business. This could involve discussing aspirations to work in multinational corporations, interest in specific global markets, or understanding the global economic landscape. For instance, a student might be intrigued by the challenges of doing business in emerging markets and want to learn strategies to navigate these complexities.

4. Analytical and Financial Skills Development: Applicants should address how they plan to develop or utilize analytical and financial skills through the program. They could talk about their interest in areas like data analysis, financial modeling, or market research. For example, a student with a knack for numbers might express enthusiasm for deepening their understanding of financial analytics to aid decision-making in business.

5. Connection to Georgetown’s Unique Offerings: It’s crucial to link these interests and aspirations specifically to what Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business offers. This could be particular courses, professors, extracurricular opportunities, or the school’s network and location. Researching the school’s curriculum, talking to alumni, or attending informational sessions can provide valuable insights. For instance, an applicant might be drawn to a specific professor’s research in international trade or the opportunity to participate in business competitions organized by the school.

Students should integrate these elements in a cohesive narrative, demonstrating a clear understanding of what makes the McDonough School of Business at Georgetown unique and how it aligns perfectly with their career goals and personal values.

Structuring Your Georgetown Essays

The structure of an essay is akin to the skeleton of a building; it provides the necessary framework to organize thoughts, present ideas logically, and ensure that the message is conveyed effectively and coherently. When tackling the Georgetown essay prompts for 2023-2024, a well-structured essay can be the difference between a compelling, memorable application and one that fails to make an impact. Here are three key points on structuring these essays:

Introduction: Establishing a Personal Connection

For the Georgetown essay prompts 2023-2024, the introduction should serve as more than just a beginning. It needs to immediately establish a personal connection with the reader. Begin with a captivating hook – a vivid anecdote, a surprising fact, or an intriguing question. This hook should naturally lead to a thesis statement that succinctly presents the main theme or point of your essay. For example, if the prompt is about your motivation for studying business, start with a brief story or moment that ignited your passion for business. This sets the stage for the reader to understand the depth of your interest and the personal journey that led you to apply to Georgetown.

Body: Detailing Experiences and Reflections

The body of your essay for the Georgetown prompts should be a balanced mix of narrative and reflection. Each paragraph should start with a clear topic sentence that relates back to your thesis. Use specific examples and experiences to illustrate your points – whether it’s a significant project, a personal challenge you overcame, or an inspiring encounter. Be sure to integrate how these experiences align with the values and offerings of Georgetown University.

It’s crucial to show not just what you did, but also to reflect on how these experiences shaped you and how they tie into your decision to apply to Georgetown. This part of the essay is where you get to showcase your analytical thinking, self-awareness, and the ability to make connections between your experiences and your future goals at Georgetown.

Conclusion: Looking Forward and Reflecting Back

A powerful conclusion is essential in structuring your Georgetown essay. It should do more than simply summarize the essay; it should bring your narrative full circle and point toward the future. Reflect on what your experiences and aspirations say about you as a potential member of the Georgetown community. Consider tying back to your introduction in a way that shows growth or deepened understanding.

For instance, if you began with a personal anecdote, you might conclude by reflecting on how that experience now informs your future aspirations at Georgetown. The goal is to leave the admissions committee with a clear sense of your unique character, your fit with Georgetown, and the contribution you intend to make to their community.

By meticulously structuring your essay, you ensure that your narrative is clear, your arguments are well-developed, and your fit with Georgetown University is unmistakably articulated. Remember, each part of the essay serves a purpose in painting a holistic picture of you as a candidate. The structure is your guide to making sure every word counts and every paragraph moves you closer to your goal of impressing the Georgetown admissions committee.

How to Effectively Revise and Proofread Your Georgetown Essays

Revising and proofreading are critical steps in the process of crafting a compelling essay response to the Georgetown essay prompts 2023-2024. They transform a good essay into a great one by ensuring clarity, coherence, and correctness. Here are key strategies for applicants to effectively revise and proofread their essays:

1. Distance Yourself Before Revising: After writing the initial draft in response to the 2023-2024 Georgetown essay prompts, take a step back for a day or two. Distance allows you to return to your essay with a fresh perspective, making it easier to spot areas that need improvement. When you revisit your essay, read it as if you were a member of the admissions committee. 

Ask yourself: Does this essay capture my interest? Does it effectively communicate my message? Is my enthusiasm for Georgetown evident? This perspective can help you see the big picture and evaluate the overall effectiveness of your essay.

2. Read Aloud for Flow and Clarity: Reading your essay out loud is a surprisingly effective way to catch errors and awkward phrasings that you might miss while reading silently. As you read, pay attention to the rhythm and flow of your sentences. Do they sound natural? Are there any jarring transitions or cumbersome sentences? For the 2023-2024 Georgetown essay prompts, ensure that each paragraph smoothly transitions to the next, maintaining a coherent narrative that clearly articulates your motivations and aspirations.

3. Seek Feedback from Trusted Sources: It’s invaluable to have a second (or third) set of eyes on your essay. Choose individuals who know you well and can provide honest, constructive feedback. This could be a teacher, a guidance counselor, or a mentor. Ask them to review your essay with the Georgetown prompts in mind and provide feedback on content, clarity, and tone. They can help identify areas where your personality and passion for Georgetown aren’t shining through as strongly as they could.

4. Focus on Precision and Conciseness: When revising, scrutinize every word and sentence. Ensure each sentence serves a purpose and contributes to your overall message. Eliminate redundant phrases, replace vague words with more precise ones, and cut unnecessary filler. The goal is to convey your thoughts in the most effective and efficient way possible, especially considering the word limit constraints of the 2023-2024 Georgetown essay prompts.

5. Final Proofreading: Attention to Detail: After revising the content, the final step is thorough proofreading. Check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. Small mistakes can distract from the quality of your writing and may inadvertently give an impression of carelessness. Tools like grammar checkers can be helpful, but they’re not infallible. A meticulous manual review is essential. Additionally, ensure that your essay adheres to the specified format guidelines (such as font size, margins, and spacing) set by Georgetown University.

By diligently revising and proofreading, applicants ensure their essays are not only free of errors but also compellingly articulate their fit and desire to be part of Georgetown University. This process transforms their initial drafts into polished pieces that stand out in the competitive admissions landscape.

Why Choose Georgetown University

Choosing to study at Georgetown University is a decision that aligns with both academic excellence and a commitment to global and ethical perspectives. This prestigious university is not just a place for acquiring knowledge; it’s a hub for nurturing future leaders equipped to address global challenges.

Georgetown University boasts an exceptional academic reputation, evidenced by its rankings in several key areas. According to the 2023 U.S. News & World Report, Georgetown is ranked #22 among national universities in the United States, and #39 in the Best Value Schools category.

These rankings underscore Georgetown’s commitment to providing comprehensive and high-quality education, benchmarked against over 1,800 colleges and universities across the country. Furthermore, on a global scale, Georgetown stands impressively at #314 out of 1740 institutions, reflecting its esteemed status worldwide.

The university also excels in specialized fields. It ranks first in both Best Colleges for Political Science and Best Colleges for International Relations in America, according to Niche rankings. This distinction highlights the strength of its programs in these critical areas, offering students unparalleled opportunities in these fields. The Business program is another area of excellence, ranking #16 in the USA and #22 globally. Such high rankings in specialized streams make Georgetown an attractive destination for students aspiring to lead in these sectors.

Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., Georgetown University offers a unique blend of academic rigor and real-world experience. Its position in the epicenter of political and international affairs provides students with unmatched opportunities for internships, networking, and exposure to global issues.

This enriching environment fosters a diverse and inclusive community where students from various backgrounds converge, share perspectives, and prepare for global careers. The university’s global outlook is further emphasized by its World University Ranking for 2024, where it stands at an impressive 32nd position.

Georgetown’s identity as a leading Catholic college in America adds another dimension to its educational approach. Ranked #1 among Catholic colleges, Georgetown integrates strong ethical values into its curriculum, focusing on the holistic development of students. This approach ensures that graduates are well-rounded individuals equipped to make meaningful contributions in their professional and personal lives.

Lastly, being a part of Georgetown’s alumni network opens doors to a world of opportunities. The university’s reputation and connections provide a solid foundation for its graduates, enabling them to excel in various fields, including government, international relations, business, law, and beyond.

The Importance of College Essays

Essays play a crucial role in shaping a student’s prospects of getting admitted to prestigious institutions like Georgetown University. When tackling the Georgetown essay prompts 2023-2024, it’s essential to understand the multifaceted importance of this aspect of the application.

One of the most significant roles essays play is in showcasing the applicant’s personal identity and voice. These narratives allow students to transcend beyond the quantitative aspects of their application, like GPAs and test scores, offering a glimpse into their individual experiences, thoughts, and aspirations.

When responding to Georgetown’s essay prompts, applicants have the opportunity to narrate their unique journeys, share transformative experiences, and articulate future goals. This humanizes the application, allowing the admissions committee to see the person behind the numbers, which can be a decisive factor in the admissions process.

Furthermore, essays serve as a medium for applicants to demonstrate their alignment with the university’s culture and values. Georgetown, known for its distinctive ethos focusing on global engagement and ethical leadership, seeks students who not only excel academically but also resonate with its values.

Through the essay prompts, applicants can illustrate how their personal values, goals, and interests align with those of Georgetown. This involves not just understanding what Georgetown stands for but also articulating how one’s aspirations and experiences intersect with the university’s ethos, thereby demonstrating a mutual fit.

Another critical aspect of the essay is its ability to showcase an applicant’s writing and critical thinking skills. Essays provide a canvas for students to demonstrate their ability to construct coherent narratives, articulate ideas clearly, and analyze complex topics. For Georgetown essay prompts 2023-2024, it’s essential that students present well-structured, thoughtfully developed essays. This showcases not just proficiency in language but also an ability to engage with ideas at a deeper level, reflecting a readiness for the rigors of college-level academics.

Lastly, in the increasingly competitive landscape of college admissions, essays are a powerful tool for differentiation. For institutions like Georgetown, where many applicants boast strong academic credentials, a compelling, uniquely written essay can make all the difference. It’s about presenting common experiences in an uncommon light, offering unique perspectives, and captivating the admissions committee with one’s narrative. A distinctive essay elevates an application, setting it apart in a pool of similarly qualified candidates and enhancing the chances of admission .

Overall, the essay component, especially in response to the Georgetown essay prompts 2023-2024, is more than just a formality in the college application process. It’s a strategic element that allows applicants to express their unique identity, align with the university’s ethos, demonstrate intellectual capabilities, and distinguish themselves in a highly competitive applicant pool. Mastery in crafting these essays can significantly tip the scales in favor of admission to prestigious institutions like Georgetown University.

How Do Georgetown University’s Essay Prompts Compare to Other Universities?

The Georgetown essay prompts for 2023-2024 offer a distinctive approach to the college application process, especially when compared to other top universities. These prompts are tailored to not only gauge the academic capabilities of applicants but also to deeply understand their personal narratives and alignment with Georgetown’s unique ethos.

Unlike some other prestigious institutions, such as Harvard or Stanford , which tend to have broader, more open-ended essay questions, Georgetown’s prompts are more specific and reflective of the university’s identity. For instance, Harvard’s application might include a prompt inviting students to write about a topic of their choice, or Stanford’s renowned “What matters to you, and why?” essay. These prompts allow for a wide range of responses and encourage creative thinking.

In contrast, Georgetown’s prompts, especially those specific to its various schools, such as the McDonough School of Business or the Walsh School of Foreign Service, are more targeted. They ask students to reflect on their specific interests, experiences, and aspirations that align with the particular values and academic focus of these schools.

This specificity in Georgetown’s prompts demands a more focused and tailored response, which not only challenges students to be introspective but also to research and understand the unique aspects of Georgetown’s academic programs and community.

Furthermore, Georgetown’s essay prompts place a significant emphasis on personal and ethical dimensions, reflecting the university’s Jesuit heritage. This is somewhat different from the essay prompts of schools like MIT or Caltech, which tend to emphasize technical prowess and problem-solving skills. Georgetown’s prompts encourage students to delve into their personal experiences, ethical values, and societal contributions.

For instance, a prompt asking students to discuss a significant school or summer activity in which they have been most involved not only seeks to understand the student’s interests but also how they have applied themselves in these contexts, potentially highlighting leadership, commitment, and community involvement. This is indicative of Georgetown’s holistic approach to education, which values both intellectual rigor and the formation of character.

Overall, the Georgetown essay prompts for 2023-2024 stand out in their specificity and alignment with the university’s ethos compared to other top universities. While schools like Harvard and Stanford offer broader, more open-ended prompts, Georgetown’s prompts require a more focused approach, reflecting its particular academic and ethical values. This difference underscores the importance for applicants to tailor their essays to the unique character and expectations of each university, demonstrating not just their academic abilities but also their fit with the institution’s culture and values.

In summary, tackling the 2023-2024 Georgetown essay prompts is your chance to shine and show what makes you unique. Remember, these essays are not just about impressing the admissions committee; they’re about sharing your story, your dreams, and your aspirations. Be honest, be creative, and most importantly, be yourself. 

Each word you write is a step towards the college of your dreams. So take a deep breath, gather your thoughts, and let your personality and passion flow onto the page. Georgetown is looking for students like you – individuals with stories, talents, and the drive to make a difference. Now, go ahead and tell them your story – the world is waiting to hear it!

It is important to have all the necessary information before making any decision. AdmissionSight is always here to help you with any questions or concerns. We have over ten years of experience helping students successfully navigate the challenging admissions process.

Consult with AdmissionSight and find out how we can help you get into the school of your choice by ensuring that you are fully informed and prepared for the application process. We will work with you to develop a personalized plan that meets your specific needs and goals. We will also provide you with access to our team of experts who can help you with everything from choosing the right schools to writing your essays .

Don’t let the admissions process overwhelm you. Contact AdmissionSight today and let us help you achieve your dreams.

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How to Write Georgetown’s Personal or Creative Essay

This article was written based on the information and opinions presented by Alexander Oddo in a CollegeVine livestream. You can watch the full livestream for more info.

What’s Covered: 

• What You Can Write About for Georgetown’s Personal Essay
• Do I Have to Write About Diversity?
• How Can I Write This as a Diversity Essay?

Georgetown’s final supplemental essay prompt, often referred to as their Diversity Essay, asks: 

As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief essay, either personal or creative, which you feel best describes you. (1 page, single-spaced)

Remember, this is only one of many essays required to submit a Georgetown application. Have questions about the other Georgetown essays? Read CollegeVine’s Guide to Georgetown’s Essays or these Examples of Great Georgetown Essays .

What You Can Write About for Georgetown’s Personal Essay 

This is an open-ended, personal essay prompt. As such, applicants should use this essay to describe who they are. Because Georgetown has a standalone application, this is a great place to reuse or repurpose parts of your Common App essay .  

If in your Common App essay you responded to prompts one, two, three, or five — which focus on personal traits, overcoming challenges, questioning beliefs, and accomplishments — it can likely be submitted without changes. There is no need to edit it to include keywords from the Georgetown essay prompt. 

Need help with your Common App essay? You can find CollegeVine’s post about how to write all of the Common Application essays . 

Do I Have to Write About Diversity? 

No. Georgetown is a diverse campus with many students from different backgrounds and perspectives. However, this is not a diversity essay. Getting tripped up by the first sentence of the prompt is a common mistake students make. Applicants should avoid feeling boxed in by the prompt, its main purpose is to further help the admissions committee better understand who you are, what you care about, and what you will bring to their community. 

How Can I Write This as a Diversity Essay? 

For some applicants, answering this prompt as a diversity essay may feel natural and make sense. In that case, consider what you are trying to convey to the reader. 

To do this, first think about what makes you stand out among other applicants. This could include hobbies, perspectives, experiences, languages, family, or personality traits. The topic of your essay does not have to be crazily unique. It just has to be something fundamental to who you are. 

As with all essays, showing is better than telling. Think about a story that exemplifies the aspect of yourself you want to highlight. Illustrate your experience to the reader through an anecdote, rather than just stating what is important to you. From there, discuss how this aspect of yourself shapes your outlook and actions. It must be important to who you are as a person, or you would not have chosen to write about it here. How does it influence your life now, and how would it continue to do so on their campus? 

For more tips and writing do’s and don’ts, check out CollegeVine’s post about how to write The Diversity College Essay . 

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

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September 9, 2023

2023-2024 Georgetown University Supplemental Essay Prompts

Georgetown University has released its 2023-2024 admissions essays for applicants to the Class of 2028 . The Jesuit institution, which has for years bucked the trend of joining The Common Application , asks applicants to respond to three essays in addition to one essay that is school-specific within the broader university. So, what are this year’s essay prompts? Let’s dive in!

2023-2024 Georgetown Essay Topics and Questions

Essays for all georgetown applicants.

All Georgetown applicants must answer the following three essay prompts

1. Please elaborate on any special talents or skills you would like to highlight (250 words) .

Applicants should focus on a skill related to the hook they’ve showcased in the activities section of their Georgetown application. After all, Georgetown’s admissions committee doesn’t care if an applicant can juggle. Even if the skill doesn’t relate to the student’s hook, the talent must showcase intellectual curiosity or it’s a wasted opportunity.

2. Briefly discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved (approximately 1/2 page, single-spaced) .

Applicants should shine a spotlight on one of their more meaningful activities. And, yes, this activity should relate to the student’s hook. If a student is interested in studying political science, the activity they write about for this essay prompt should not relate to physics. Georgetown’s admissions committee wants to see how applicants are going to make the world better in a small but meaningful way. As such, this is an opportunity to show rather than tell how they’ve done that to date through the prism of a specific extracurricular pursuit.

3. Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief personal or creative essay which you feel best describes you and reflects on your own background, identity, skills, and talents. (approximately 1 page, single-spaced)

It’s unsurprising that unlike many of its peer institutions, Georgetown has made few changes to its application in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling outlawing Affirmative Action. After all, Georgetown’s longtime Dean of Admissions Charles Deacon is well known for his aversion to change. For example, it took a worldwide pandemic for the man to finally switch to notifying applicants of their decisions via the Internet rather than snail mail.

While this essay is similar to last year’s third essay prompt required of all applicants, the wording is slightly different. Unlike last year’s prompt, Georgetown has included “background” and “identity.” Last year, the prompt read, “As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief essay, either personal or creative, which you feel best describes you.”

Now, keep in mind that some schools, like Johns Hopkins University , included bold language that very much capitalized on the loophole Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts penned in his majority opinion outlawing Affirmative Action , allowing schools to continue to consider a candidate’s race in context: “Nothing in this opinion should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicant’s discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise.” Georgetown, unsurprisingly, didn’t go nearly as far in its language under its reluctant-to-modernize admissions czar — but it’s a step nonetheless.

Students need not be underrepresented minorities to answer this prompt powerfully. Students can instead write about their faith, community, or experiences, but we do encourage applicants who are underrepresented minorities to subtly make it clear since Georgetown, like all highly selective universities, continues to wish to admit a diverse class of students.

Georgetown School-Specific Essays

For the school-specific essay, irrespective of the school, the essay should not exceed one page, single-spaced.

Georgetown College of Arts and Sciences

A liberal arts education from the College of Arts & Sciences involves encounters with new concepts and modes of inquiry. Describe something (a class, a book, an event, etc.) that changed your thinking. (Applicants to the sciences, mathematics, public policy or languages are encouraged to include examples related to that field.)

Georgetown’s admissions committee wants to understand how an applicant thinks. Through a specific anecdote or anecdotes (no matter a student’s chosen field of study) — be it via a book, event, classroom discussion, lecture, or anything — it behooves applicants to shine a light on how they are filled with conviction. Yet, they’re also malleable to change when presented with better ideas. And, of course, it wouldn’t hurt to pepper — by showing rather than telling — the importance of the Jesuit tradition and, in particular, Cura personalis, in their storytelling.

McDonough School of Business

The McDonough School of Business is a national and global leader in providing graduates with essential ethical, analytical, financial and global perspectives. Please discuss your motivations for studying business at Georgetown.

This essay prompt presents applicants with an opportunity to share an origin story — as high schoolers rather than as children — for their interest in business. Ideally, the origin story traces to an activity featured in the student’s Georgetown activities section. And, of course, McDonough isn’t looking to admit future business titans just out for money. They want to understand how applicants will make the world better in a small but meaningful way. As such, McDonough applicants should infuse their essays with Jesuit traditions — and why they matter to them in business. And, yes, this essay should also be infused with Why McDonough and Why Georgetown specifics (and, no, name-dropping professors and listing classes don’t count as genuine specifics).

Walsh School of Foreign Service

The Walsh School of Foreign Service was founded more than a century ago to prepare generations of leaders to solve global problems. What is motivating you to dedicate your undergraduate studies to a future in service to the world?

Walsh is looking to learn the origin story of an applicant’s interest in foreign service — as high schoolers rather than as children. Through a specific anecdote or anecdotes, which ideally trace back to the student’s activities so they’re showing rather than telling, applicants should highlight how they hope to leave a mark on the wall in a way that can be actualized. Stopping climate change can’t be actualized. Incentivizing countries to be greener — based on specific research and insights — is much more doable.

School of Health

Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying health care at Georgetown University. Please specifically address your intended major (Global Health, Health Care Management & Policy, or Human Science).

Georgetown’s School of Health seeks to understand a student’s origin story, as a high schooler, for their interest in the disciplines under the School of Health’s umbrella. A grandparent becoming ill with breast cancer is not the way into such an essay since it’s all too common and doesn’t say enough about how a student thinks and how they wish to leave a mark on their field.

Instead, applicants should tell a small story that ideally relates to an activity they’ve participated in during high school, that showcases precisely why they want to contribute to the health field and how they hope to make a difference — and always in a small but deeply meaningful way.

Ivy Coach’s Assistance with Georgetown Essays

If you’re interested in submitting essays that will wow Georgetown’s admissions committee, fill out Ivy Coach ’s free consultation form , and we’ll be in touch to outline our college admissions counseling services for seniors.

You are permitted to use www.ivycoach.com (including the content of the Blog) for your personal, non-commercial use only. You must not copy, download, print, or otherwise distribute the content on our site without the prior written consent of Ivy Coach, Inc.

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2023-2024 Georgetown

• Thread starter chilly_md
• Start date Mar 17, 2023

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Georgetown University School of Medicine Interview Feedback

OreoLover365

• Jul 5, 2023

Does anyone know if this question is referring to Georgetown enrollment specifically? "Are you/will you be enrolled in any program during the 2023-2024 academic year?" The reason I ask is because, if I say "yes" (since I'm going to be a senior in college this upcoming year), the options are "Georgetown Experimental Medical Studies," "Special Masters Program in Physiology", and "Other." Should I pick "other" and type where I go for undergrad? Or should I answer "no" to the question?  

Plain-spoken Texan

OreoLover365 said: Does anyone know if this question is referring to Georgetown enrollment specifically? "Are you/will you be enrolled in any program during the 2023-2024 academic year?" The reason I ask is because, if I say "yes" (since I'm going to be a senior in college this upcoming year), the options are "Georgetown Experimental Medical Studies," "Special Masters Program in Physiology", and "Other." Should I pick "other" and type where I go for undergrad? Or should I answer "no" to the question? Click to expand...

Thanks @OreoLover365 for sharing the questions  

sweetpotatofever

OOS secondary received at 11 AM!  

OOS received at 1028 AM!  

Is anyone else having the SSN section glitch out on them? The bar is grey and hitting the reset button doesn't work. I can't complete this page because of it :/  

sweetpotatofever said: Is anyone else having the SSN section glitch out on them? The bar is grey and hitting the reset button doesn't work. I can't complete this page because of it :/ Click to expand...

I emailed admissions. They responded saying they are aware of this issue and are actively working on it.  

sweetpotatofever said: I emailed admissions. They responded saying they are aware of this issue and are actively working on it. Click to expand...

coffeeandcalifornia

Is anyone willing to share their interpretation of question 2 "further information" prompt? There is already a why Georgetown so wondering if this is meant to be for covid?  

That Guy 20125

The problem was fixed for me and you can submit now! GL everyone!!  

Can confirm it's working now. Thank you for the update @That Guy 20125 !  

chidorichampion

Just making sure, is the bar supposed to turn grey after entering in your SSN and saving and moving on?  

chidorichampion said: Just making sure, is the bar supposed to turn grey after entering in your SSN and saving and moving on? Click to expand...

thank you so much!  

Are you just submitting and then doing the financial aid portion later?  

helloworld172

Hello all, I applied to Georgetown before realizing the 125 cutoff for subsections. I scored a 124 in my CARS section (508-129/124/128/127) and received a secondary application invite earlier today. Is it worthwhile to complete the secondary or will this just be a donation because of my low CARS score. Thank you for the help.  

moonshapedpooll

Is prompt 3 essentially a diversity essay? or using a diveristy essay to then talk about georgetown's mission?  

SultanateIV

Do we have to complete the FAFSA to be considered for an interview?  

• Jul 6, 2023

SultanateIV said: Do we have to complete the FAFSA to be considered for an interview? Click to expand...

tcc926818 said: Pretty sure they just want applicants to be aware of the deadline. If I get an ii I'm going to make sure I have it done though Click to expand...

stressedout0982

anyone else OOS not received a secondary yet? don't know if I should be worried!  

stressedout0982 said: anyone else OOS not received a secondary yet? don't know if I should be worried! Click to expand...

That Guy 20125 said: check your promotions and spam, mine was in promotions Click to expand...

premadbaddie

• Jul 7, 2023

I don't know why but I can only see the "Why Georgetown" essay and not any others  

premadbaddie said: I don't know why but I can only see the "Why Georgetown" essay and not any others Click to expand...

coffeespin23

• Jul 8, 2023

coffeeandcalifornia said: Is anyone willing to share their interpretation of question 2 "further information" prompt? There is already a why Georgetown so wondering if this is meant to be for covid? Click to expand...

• Jul 9, 2023

If I was a semi-successful applicant in a previous cycle, is it ok if I reuse essays with some minor modifications? I am asking as they do explicitly state that "Application materials for applicants who are not accepted are not retained for future applications. Applicants who applied in previous years and who wish to use the same credentials must have them resubmitted" which makes me think that they won't be comparing my prior application as they won't even have it?  

celestia0313

• Jul 11, 2023

coffeespin23 said: I used it to talk about my reflections from being a reapplicant and also plans for next year Click to expand...

• Jul 12, 2023

celestia0313 said: do you think I could use it for a diversity spiel or maybe talk a little behind why I chose my double major? or is that rlly not what they're looking for Click to expand...

• Jul 16, 2023

The "personal info" page is marked as incomplete. I do not have extra info to share for the last question on that page, but I cannot submit while leaving it blank? Is anyone else having this issue?  

lupeskatana

kthomp9 said: The "personal info" page is marked as incomplete. I do not have extra info to share for the last question on that page, but I cannot submit while leaving it blank? Is anyone else having this issue? Click to expand...

Dr.WannabeAccepted

• Jul 25, 2023

Is it worth applying here with a 124 CARS? I feel like I fit their mission, but I'd rather not spend $130 on their secondary if my application will immediately get set aside.  

deleted1124957

Kzfor3 said: Is it worth applying here with a 124 CARS? I feel like I fit their mission, but I'd rather not spend $130 on their secondary if my application will immediately get set aside. Click to expand...

genetics101

• Jul 26, 2023

Anyone having trouble paying? Every time I hit submit payment it logs me out  

TheDevilWearsFIGS

genetics101 said: Anyone having trouble paying? Every time I hit submit payment it logs me out Click to expand...

deleted1163306

• Jul 27, 2023

OOS II received  

aoso0769 said: OOS II received Click to expand...

premeddon said: Congratulations!!! Mind sharing Stats? Complete Date? Click to expand...

manifesting222

madamemichaelscott

• Jul 28, 2023

For those who received II, did your status on the portal say "under review" or was it just "your application is ready"?  

I want to add Georgetown to the list of medical schools that I'm applying to, because I recently looked into the school and I feel like my application really aligns with their mission. Do you guys think it's too late in the cycle to submit my application here? LM 78  

wigglyextrovert

onycho said: I want to add Georgetown to the list of medical schools that I'm applying to, because I recently looked into the school and I feel like my application really aligns with their mission. Do you guys think it's too late in the cycle to submit my application here? LM 78 Click to expand...

Dr_Pediatrics

• Jul 29, 2023

Is there a place on the secondary to upload documents?  

additional_classic said: anyone get an interview yet? Hear last year they started end of July Click to expand...

• Jul 30, 2023

In the 'Background Information' section is the short answer prompt 1000 characters with spaces or without?  

Similar threads

• Oct 18, 2023

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A year after affirmative action ban, how students are pitching themselves to colleges

• Deep Read ( 13 Min. )
• By Olivia Sanchez, Nirvi Shah, and Meredith Kolodner The Hechinger Report

June 28, 2024

In the year since the U.S. Supreme Court banned the consideration of race in college admissions, students have had to give more thought to how they present themselves in their application essays – to what they will disclose.

Data from the Common Application shows that in this admissions cycle, about 12% of students from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups used at least one of 38 identity-related phrases in their essays, a decrease of roughly 1% from the previous year. The data shows that about 20% of American Indian and Alaskan Native applicants used one of these phrases; meanwhile 15% of Asian students, 14% of Black students, 11% of Latinx students, and fewer than 3% of white students did so.

Why We Wrote This

A year ago, the U.S. Supreme Court barred affirmative action in college admissions. Students have since used their application essays as a place to explore identity.

To better understand how students were deciding what to include, The Hechinger Report asked newly accepted students from across the United States to share their application essays and to describe how they thought their writing choices ultimately influenced their admissions outcomes. Among them was Jaleel Gomes Cardoso from Boston, who wrote about being Black. 

“If you’re not going to see what my race is in my application, then I’m definitely putting it in my writing,” he says, “because you have to know that this is the person who I am.”   

In the year since the Supreme Court banned  the consideration of race in college admissions last June, students have had to give more thought to how they present themselves in their application essays .

Previously, they could write about their racial or ethnic identity if they wanted to, but colleges would usually know it either way and could use it as a factor in admissions. Now, it’s entirely up to students to disclose their identity or not.

Data from the Common Application shows that in this admissions cycle about 12% of students from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups used at least one of 38 identity-related phrases in their essays, a decrease of roughly 1% from the previous year. The data shows that about 20% of American Indian and Alaskan Native applicants used one of these phrases; meanwhile 15% of Asian students, 14% of Black students, 11% of Latinx students, and fewer than 3% of white students did so.

To better understand how students were making this decision and introducing themselves to colleges, The Hechinger Report asked newly accepted students from across the country to share their college application essays. The Hechinger staff read more than 50 essays and talked to many students about their writing process, who gave them advice, and how they think their choices ultimately influenced their admissions outcomes.

Here are thoughts from a sampling of those students, with excerpts from their essays. 

Jaleel Gomes Cardoso of Boston: A risky decision

As Jaleel Gomes Cardoso sat looking at the essay prompt for Yale University, he wasn’t sure how honest he should be. “Reflect on your membership in a community to which you feel connected,” it read. “Why is this community meaningful to you?” He wanted to write about being part of the Black community – it was the obvious choice – but the Supreme Court’s decision to ban the consideration of a student’s race in admissions gave him pause.

“Ever since the decision about affirmative action, it kind of worried me about talking about race,” says Mr. Cardoso, who grew up in Boston. “That entire topic felt like a risky decision.” 

In the past, he had always felt that taking a risk produced some of his best writing, but he thought that an entire essay about being Black might be going too far. 

“The risk was just so heavy on the topic of race when the Court’s decision was to not take race into account,” he says. “It was as if I was disregarding that decision. It felt very controversial, just to make it so out in the open.” 

In the end, he did write an essay that put his racial identity front and center. He wasn’t accepted to Yale, but he has no regrets about his choice.

“If you’re not going to see what my race is in my application, then I’m definitely putting it in my writing,” says Mr. Cardoso, who will attend Dartmouth College this fall, “because you have to know that this is the person who I am.”                       

 – Meredith Kolodner

Essay excerpt:

I was thrust into a narrative of indifference and insignificance from the moment I entered this world. I was labeled as black, which placed me in the margins of society. It seemed that my destiny had been predetermined; to be part of a minority group constantly oppressed under the weight of a social construct called race. Blackness became my life, an identity I initially battled against. I knew others viewed it as a flaw that tainted their perception of me. As I matured, I realized that being different was not easy, but it was what I loved most about myself.  

Klaryssa Cobian of Los Angeles: A seminomadic mattress life

Klaryssa Cobian is Latina – a first-generation Mexican American – and so was nearly everyone else in the Southeast Los Angeles community where she grew up. Because that world was so homogenous, she really didn’t notice her race until she was a teenager.

Then she earned a scholarship to a prestigious private high school in Pasadena. For the first time, she was meaningfully interacting with people of other races and ethnicities, but she felt the greatest gulf between her and her peers came from her socioeconomic status, not the color of her skin. 

Although Ms. Cobian has generally tried to keep her home life private, she felt that colleges needed to understand the way her family’s severe economic disadvantages had affected her. She wrote about how she’d long been “desperate to feel at home.”

She was 16 years old before she had a mattress of her own. Her essay cataloged all the places she lay her head before that. She wrote about her first bed, a queen-sized mattress shared with her parents and younger sister. She wrote about sleeping in the backseat of her mother’s red Mustang, before they lost the car. She wrote about moving into her grandparents’ home and sharing a mattress on the floor with her sister, in the same room as two uncles. She wrote about the great independence she felt when she “moved out” into the living room and onto the couch.  

“Which mattress I sleep on has defined my life, my independence, my dependence,” Ms. Cobian wrote. 

She’d initially considered writing about the ways she felt she’d had to sacrifice her Latino culture and identity to pursue her education, but said she hesitated after the Supreme Court ruled on the use of affirmative action in admissions. Ultimately, she decided that her experience of poverty was more pertinent. 

“If I’m in a room of people, it’s like, I can talk to other Latinos, and I can talk to other brown people, but that does not mean I’m going to connect with them. Because, I learned, brown people can be rich,” Ms. Cobian says.  She’s headed to the University of California, Berkeley, in the fall.

– Olivia Sanchez

Essay excerpt: 

With the only income, my mom automatically assumed custody of me and my younger sister, Alyssa. With no mattress and no home, the backseat of my mom’s red mustang became my new mattress. Bob Marley blasted from her red convertible as we sang out “could you be loved” every day on our ride back from elementary school. Eventually, we lost the mustang too and would take the bus home from Downtown Los Angeles, still singing “could you be loved” to each other.  

Oluwademilade Egunjobi of Providence, Rhode Island: The perfect introduction

Oluwademilade Egunjobi worked on her college essay from June until November. Not every single day, and not on only one version, but for five months she was writing and editing and asking anyone who would listen for advice.

She considered submitting essays about the value of sex education, or the philosophical theory of solipsism (in which the only thing that is guaranteed to exist is your own mind). 

But most of the advice she got was to write about her identity. So, to introduce herself to colleges, Oluwademilade Egunjobi wrote about her name.

Ms. Egunjobi is the daughter of Nigerian immigrants who, she wrote, chose her first name because it means she’s been crowned by God. In naming her, she said, her parents prioritized pride in their heritage over ease of pronunciation for people outside their culture. 

And although Ms. Egunjobi loves that she will always be connected to her culture, this choice has put her in a lifelong loop of exasperating introductions and questions from non-Nigerians about her name. 

The loop often ends when the person asks if they can call her by her nickname, Demi. “I smile through my irritation and say I prefer it anyways, and then the situation repeats time and time again,” Egunjobi wrote. 

She was nervous when she learned about the Supreme Court’s affirmative action decision, wondering what it might mean for where she would get into college. Her teachers and college advisors from a program called Matriculate told her she didn’t have to write a sob story, but that she should write about her identity, how it affects the way she moves through the world and the resilience it’s taught her. 

She heeded their advice, and it worked out. In the fall, she will enter the University of Pennsylvania to study philosophy, politics, and economics. 

I don’t think I’ve ever had to fight so hard to love something as hard as I’ve fought to love my name. I’m grateful for it because it’ll never allow me to reject my culture and my identity, but I get frustrated by this daily performance. I’ve learned that this performance is an inescapable fate, but the best way to deal with fate is to show up with joy. I am Nigerian, but specifically from the ethnic group, Yoruba. In Yoruba culture, most names are manifestations. Oluwademilade means God has crowned me, and my middle name is Favor, so my parents have manifested that I’ll be favored above others and have good success in life. No matter where I go, people familiar with the language will recognize my name and understand its meaning. I love that I’ll always carry a piece of my culture with me.  

Francisco Garcia of Fort Worth, Texas: Accepted to college and by his community

In the opening paragraph of his college application essay, Francisco Garcia quotes his mother, speaking to him in Spanish, expressing disappointment that her son was failing to live up to her Catholic ideals. It was her reaction to Mr. Garcia revealing his bisexuality. 

Mr. Garcia said those nine Spanish words were “the most intentional thing I did to share my background” with colleges. The rest of his essay delves into how his Catholic upbringing, at least for a time, squelched his ability to be honest with friends about his sexual identity, and how his relationship with the church changed. He said he had striven, however, to avoid coming across as pessimistic or sad, aiming instead to share “what I’ve been through [and] how I’ve become a better person because of it.” 

He worked on his essay throughout July, August, and September, with guidance from college officials he met during campus visits and from an adviser he was paired with by Matriculate, which works with students who are high achievers from low-income families. Be very personal, they told Mr. Garcia, but within limits. 

“I am fortunate to have support from all my friends, who encourage me to explore complexities within myself,” he wrote. “My friends give me what my mother denied me: acceptance.”

He was accepted by Dartmouth, one of the eight schools to which he applied, after graduating from Saginaw High School near Fort Worth, Texas, this spring.

– Nirvi Shah

Essay excerpt:  

By the time I got to high school, I had made new friends who I felt safe around. While I felt I was more authentic with them, I was still unsure whether they would judge me for who I liked. It became increasingly difficult for me to keep hiding this part of myself, so I vented to both my mom and my closest friend, Yoana ... When I confessed that I was bisexual to Yoana, they were shocked, and I almost lost hope. However, after the initial shock, they texted back, “I’m really chill with this. Nothing has changed Francisco:)”. The smiley face, even if it took 2 characters, was enough to bring me to tears. 

Hafsa Sheikh of Pearland, Texas: Family focus above all 

Hafsa Sheikh felt her applications would be incomplete without the important context of her home life: She became a primary financial contributor to her household when she was just 15, because her father, once the family’s sole breadwinner, could not work due to his major depressive disorder. Her work in a pizza parlor on the weekends and as a tutor after school helped pay the bills. 

She found it challenging to open up this way, but felt she needed to tell colleges that, although working two jobs throughout high school made her feel like crying from exhaustion every night, she would do anything for her family. 

“It’s definitely not easy sharing some of the things that you’ve been through with, like really a stranger,” she says, “because you don’t know who’s reading it.”

And especially after the Supreme Court ruled against affirmative action, Ms. Sheikh felt she needed to write about her cultural identity. It’s a core part of who she is, but it’s also a major part of why her father’s mental illness affected her life so profoundly. 

Ms. Sheikh, the daughter of Pakistani immigrants, said her family became isolated because of the negative stigma surrounding mental health in their South Asian culture. She said they became the point of gossip in the community and even among extended family members, and they were excluded from many social gatherings. This was happening as she was watching the typical high school experiences pass her by, she wrote. Because of the long hours she had to work, she had to forgo the opportunity to try out for the girls’ basketball team and debate club, and often couldn’t justify cutting back her hours to spend time with her friends.  

She wrote that reflecting on one of her favorite passages in the Holy Quran gave her hope:

“One of my favorite ayahs, ‘verily, with every hardship comes ease,’ serves as a timeless reminder that adversity is not the end; rather, there is always light on the other side,” Ms. Sheikh wrote.

Her perseverance paid off, with admission to Princeton University.

-- Olivia Sanchez

Besides the financial responsibility on my mother and I, we had to deal with the stigma surrounding mental health in South Asian culture and the importance of upholding traditional gender roles. My family became a point of great gossip within the local Pakistani community and even extended family. Slowly, the invitations to social gatherings diminished, and I bailed on plans with friends because I couldn’t afford to miss even a single hour of earnings.

David Arturo Munoz-Matta of McAllen, Texas: Weighing the risks of being honest

It was Nov. 30 and David Arturo Munoz-Matta had eight college essays due the next day. He had spent the prior weeks slammed with homework while also grieving the loss of his uncle who had just died. He knew the essays were going to require all the mental energy he could muster – not to mention whatever hours were left in the day. But he got home from school to discover he had no electricity. 

“I was like, ‘What am I gonna do?’” says Mr. Munoz-Matta, who graduated from Lamar Academy in McAllen, Texas. “I was panicking for a while, and my mom was like, ‘You know what? I’m just gonna drop you off at Starbucks and then just call me when you finish with all your essays.’ And so I was there at Starbucks from 4 until 12 in the morning.” 

The personal statement he agonized over most was the one he submitted to Georgetown University.  

“I don’t want to be mean or anything, but I feel like a lot of these institutions are very elitist, and that my story might not resonate with the admissions officers,” Mr. Munoz-Matta says. “It was a very big risk, especially when I said I was born in Mexico, when I said I grew up in an abusive environment. I believed at the time that would not be good for universities, that they might feel like, ‘I don’t want this kid, he won’t be a good fit with the student body.’”

He didn’t have an adult to help him with his essay, but another student encouraged him to be honest. It worked. He got into his dream school, Georgetown University, with a full ride. Many of his peers were not as fortunate. 

“I know because of the affirmative action decision, a lot of my friends did not even apply to these universities, like the Ivies, because they felt like they were not going to get in,” he says. “That was a very big sentiment in my school.”                       

– Meredith Kolodner  

While many others in my grade level had lawyers and doctors for parents and came from exemplary middle schools at the top of their classes, I was the opposite. I came into Lamar without middle school recognition, recalling my 8th-grade science teacher’s claim that I would never make it. At Lamar, freshman year was a significant challenge as I constantly struggled, feeling like I had reached my wit’s end. By the middle of Freshman year, I was the only kid left from my middle school, since everyone else had dropped out. Rather than following suit, I kept going. I felt like I had something to prove to myself because I knew I could make it.

Kendall Martin of Austin, Texas: From frustration to love

Kendall Martin wanted to be clear with college admissions officers about one thing: She is a young Black woman, and her race is central to who she is. Ms. Martin was ranked 15th in her graduating class from KIPP Austin Collegiate. She was a key figure on her high school basketball team. She wanted colleges to know she had overcome adversity. But most importantly, Ms. Martin says, she wanted to be sure, when her application was reviewed, “Y’all know who you are accepting.”

It wouldn’t be as simple as checking a box, though, which led Ms. Martin, of Kyle, Texas, to the topic she chose for her college admissions essay, the year after the Supreme Court said race could not be a factor in college admissions. Instead, she looked at the hair framing her face, hair still scarred from being straightened time and again. 

Ms. Martin wrote about the struggles she faced growing up with hair that she says required extensive time to tame so she could simply run her fingers through it. Now headed to Rice University in Houston – her first choice from a half-dozen options – she included a photo of her braids as part of her application. Her essay described her journey from hating her hair to embracing it, from heat damage to learning to braid, from frustration to love, a feeling she now hopes to inspire in her sister.  

“That’s what I wanted to get across: my growing up, my experiences, everything that made me who I am,” she says.

–  Nirvi Shah

I’m still recovering from the heat damage I caused by straightening my hair every day, because I was so determined to prove that I had length. When I was younger, a lot of my self worth was based on how long my hair was, so when kids made fun of my “short hair,” I despised my curls more and more. I begged my mom to let me get a relaxer, but she continued to deny my wish. This would make me so angry, because who was she to tell me what I could and couldn’t do with my hair? But looking back, I’m so glad she never let me. I see now that a relaxer wasn’t the key to making me prettier, and my love for my curls has reached an all-time high. 

This story about  college admission essays  was produced by  The Hechinger Report , a nonprofit, independent news organization focused on inequality and innovation in education. Sign up for Hechinger’s  higher education newsletter . Listen to Hechinger’s  higher education podcast .

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The Unique Burial of a Child of Early Scythian Time at the Cemetery of Saryg-Bulun (Tuva)

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Pages:  379-406

In 1988, the Tuvan Archaeological Expedition (led by M. E. Kilunovskaya and V. A. Semenov) discovered a unique burial of the early Iron Age at Saryg-Bulun in Central Tuva. There are two burial mounds of the Aldy-Bel culture dated by 7th century BC. Within the barrows, which adjoined one another, forming a figure-of-eight, there were discovered 7 burials, from which a representative collection of artifacts was recovered. Burial 5 was the most unique, it was found in a coffin made of a larch trunk, with a tightly closed lid. Due to the preservative properties of larch and lack of air access, the coffin contained a well-preserved mummy of a child with an accompanying set of grave goods. The interred individual retained the skin on his face and had a leather headdress painted with red pigment and a coat, sewn from jerboa fur. The coat was belted with a leather belt with bronze ornaments and buckles. Besides that, a leather quiver with arrows with the shafts decorated with painted ornaments, fully preserved battle pick and a bow were buried in the coffin. Unexpectedly, the full-genomic analysis, showed that the individual was female. This fact opens a new aspect in the study of the social history of the Scythian society and perhaps brings us back to the myth of the Amazons, discussed by Herodotus. Of course, this discovery is unique in its preservation for the Scythian culture of Tuva and requires careful study and conservation.

Keywords: Tuva, Early Iron Age, early Scythian period, Aldy-Bel culture, barrow, burial in the coffin, mummy, full genome sequencing, aDNA

Information about authors: Marina Kilunovskaya (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Vladimir Semenov (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Varvara Busova  (Moscow, Russian Federation).  (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences.  Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Kharis Mustafin  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Technical Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Irina Alborova  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Biological Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Alina Matzvai  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected]

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The History of Synchronized Swimming Is More Than Esther Williams

In “Swimming Pretty,” Vicki Valosik connects the evolution of an unlikely sport with the century-long struggle of women to be taken seriously in the water.

By Jennifer Schuessler

Jennifer Schuessler reported poolside in Fairfax, Va., where she also attempted moves like the oyster and the plank.

On a recent evening, a half-dozen members of the D.C. Synchromasters were warming up poolside at an outdoor swim club in Fairfax, Va.

A portable underwater speaker started playing Deorro’s hit “Bailar,” and the group snapped to attention for a “hand drill” — using their hands to mark where their legs would need to be, timed to the beat.

Swimmers jumped in to run through some vertical spins, lifts and barracudas (which involve thrusting the body straight up out of the water while upside down). A few stayed up top, clustered around Vicki Valosik, who is not just a team member but the author of the new book “Swimming Pretty: The Untold Story of Women in Water.”

“Oooh,” one teammate said as Valosik pulled an advance copy out of her bag. “Is that the book in the flesh?”

To many, synchronized swimming (or “artistic swimming,” as the competitive sport is now called, after a rebrand in 2017) may be synonymous with over-the-top 1950s Esther Williams aqua-spectaculars like “Million Dollar Mermaid” — or perhaps the classic 1984 “Saturday Night Live” skit mocking what was then a newly minted Olympic sport.

But in “Swimming Pretty,” Valosik puts the sport in a wide historical frame, showing how the very idea of women going into the water has both reflected and driven social change.

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