The Importance of Supplemental Essays at Lehigh University
Lehigh University, located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life. As part of the application process, Lehigh requires applicants to submit supplemental essays, which are essential for several reasons:
1. Personal Insight: Supplemental essays allow students to share their personal stories, values, and motivations, providing a fuller picture of who they are.
2. Alignment with University Values: These essays help admissions officers assess how well a student's interests and goals align with Lehigh's mission and culture.
3. Demonstration of Interest: Thoughtfully crafted essays indicate a student's genuine interest in the university, which can be a differentiating factor in a competitive applicant pool.
4. Opportunity for Distinction: In a sea of applications, strong supplemental essays can set candidates apart, highlighting their unique perspectives and contributions to the campus community.
Understanding Lehigh's Supplemental Essay Prompts
Before diving into examples, it’s crucial to understand the types of prompts that Lehigh uses. Typically, Lehigh's supplemental essays ask students to reflect on their experiences, aspirations, and how they plan to engage with the university community.
Some common themes in these prompts include:
- Personal challenges and growth
- Academic and career goals
- Contributions to the Lehigh community
- Experiences that shaped one’s identity
Examples of Lehigh Supplemental Essays
Below are a few examples of potential supplemental essay topics, along with sample responses that illustrate how applicants might approach these prompts.
Example Prompt 1: Personal Challenges
“Describe a time when you faced a challenge and how you overcame it.”
Sample Response:
During my sophomore year, I faced one of the most challenging moments of my life: my father was diagnosed with a rare illness. The news was devastating, and I felt a profound sense of helplessness. However, instead of succumbing to despair, I chose to channel my emotions into action. I became my father’s primary caregiver while balancing my schoolwork and extracurricular activities.
I researched his condition, connecting with healthcare professionals and support groups. This experience taught me resilience and empathy; I learned how to advocate for my father and support my family during a difficult time. It also ignited my passion for healthcare, leading me to volunteer at a local hospital, where I witnessed the positive impact of compassionate care. At Lehigh, I hope to study biomedical engineering, combining my experiences and passions to innovate solutions that improve patient care.
Example Prompt 2: Academic Interests
“What academic areas or disciplines are you interested in pursuing at Lehigh and why?”
Sample Response:
As a child, I was always fascinated by how things work. I would dismantle appliances just to understand their inner mechanics. This curiosity blossomed into a passion for mechanical engineering, which I am eager to pursue at Lehigh. The university’s emphasis on hands-on learning and collaboration resonates with my learning style.
Lehigh’s Integrated Business and Engineering (IBE) program particularly excites me because it merges my interests in engineering and business. I envision a career that allows me to develop innovative products while understanding market needs. I am also drawn to Lehigh’s commitment to sustainability. I aim to contribute to projects that create environmentally friendly technologies, making a positive impact on society.
Example Prompt 3: Contributions to Campus Community
“How do you plan to contribute to the Lehigh community?”
Sample Response:
Lehigh's diverse and dynamic community is one of the aspects I am most excited about. As someone who thrives in collaborative environments, I hope to contribute my background in cultural exchange initiatives. During high school, I started a club that brought together students from various cultural backgrounds to share their traditions and experiences. This initiative not only celebrated diversity but also fostered understanding and respect among peers.
At Lehigh, I plan to revive this initiative, creating a platform for students to share their cultural heritage through events, workshops, and discussions. I believe that by promoting inclusivity and understanding, we can enhance the campus experience for everyone. Additionally, I am eager to join engineering clubs where I can collaborate with fellow students on projects that address real-world problems, further enriching my academic journey.
Tips for Writing Compelling Supplemental Essays
Crafting effective supplemental essays requires introspection and a clear understanding of Lehigh’s values. Here are some tips to help applicants write compelling responses:
1. Be Authentic
- Write in your voice: Authenticity resonates with readers. Avoid using overly complex language or trying to impress the admissions committee. Instead, be genuine.
- Share personal stories: Use anecdotes that reflect your experiences, challenges, and motivations.
2. Demonstrate Research and Interest
- Show knowledge of Lehigh: Reference specific programs, faculty, or initiatives that attract you. This demonstrates your commitment and interest in the university.
- Align your interests with Lehigh’s values: Make clear connections between your goals and what Lehigh offers.
3. Be Specific and Detailed
- Avoid vague statements: Instead of saying, “I want to help people,” elaborate on how you plan to make a difference and the specific ways you intend to get involved.
- Use concrete examples: Ground your responses in real-life experiences that illustrate your points.
4. Edit and Revise
- Take time to revise: Good writing is often re-writing. Allow yourself time to refine your essays and improve clarity and coherence.
- Seek feedback: Have teachers, mentors, or peers review your essays to provide constructive feedback.
5. Stay Within Word Limits
- Be concise: Each supplemental essay typically has a word limit. Stick to it while ensuring you convey your message effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lehigh supplemental essays examples serve as a valuable resource for prospective students aiming to understand what the admissions committee seeks in their applications. These essays are an opportunity to showcase individuality, articulate ambitions, and demonstrate a commitment to contributing to the Lehigh community. By reflecting on personal experiences, aligning academic interests with university offerings, and adhering to best practices in writing, applicants can create compelling essays that enhance their chances of admission to this prestigious institution. Ultimately, the goal is to present a narrative that is uniquely yours, one that resonates with the values and spirit of Lehigh University.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main components of the Lehigh supplemental essays?
The main components typically include a personal statement, a response to a specific prompt about your academic interests or experiences, and sometimes a creative piece that reflects your personality or unique perspective.
How can I make my Lehigh supplemental essays stand out?
To make your essays stand out, focus on authenticity and personal storytelling. Use specific examples from your life, demonstrate your passion for your chosen field, and show how you align with Lehigh's values and community.
Are there any specific prompts for the Lehigh supplemental essays?
Yes, Lehigh often provides specific prompts that may change each application cycle. It’s essential to check the official Lehigh University admissions website for the most current prompts.
What tone should I use in my Lehigh supplemental essays?
Aim for a tone that is both professional and personal. You want to convey your seriousness about your education while also allowing your personality to shine through.
How long should my Lehigh supplemental essays be?
Typically, Lehigh supplemental essays range from 150 to 300 words, depending on the specific prompt. Always check the guidelines for the exact requirements.
Can I include my extracurricular activities in the Lehigh supplemental essays?
Absolutely! Including extracurricular activities can provide context to your interests and experiences. Be sure to connect them to your academic goals or how they have shaped you as a person.
What common mistakes should I avoid in my Lehigh supplemental essays?
Common mistakes include being too vague, repeating information already present in your application, failing to answer the prompt directly, and neglecting to proofread for grammatical errors.
