What are the do’s and don't of ‘ why nyu essay?’

The application season for colleges has finally arrived. The Common Application went live at the beginning of August, bringing one of the most essential yet frequently misunderstood specific applications: the supplemental prompt.

In addition to your Common App essay, which is sent to each school to which you apply, many colleges have their questions. This is our means of learning more about your character and college suitability. Our additional inquiry at NYU is straightforward: “Why NYU?”

I recognize that the prompt is deceivingly basic. Many students report that they have no idea where to begin. I understand. Writing about oneself is difficult. I recall the feeling I had upon applying to university (and I still feel that when I need to write about myself).

How can I then prepare for this question?

There is no magic technique for answering this question, but that does not exclude preparation. NYU is an extraordinarily varied, enormous, global, intimate, one-of-a-kind, and complex institution. We do not expect you to be thoroughly knowledgeable. We hope you have thoughtfully considered why you are applying to your particular NYU program. When we read Why NYU essays, the committee asks, “What will this student be like as a member of the NYU community?” What is their perspective?”

Dos and Don’ts for the “Why NYU Essay

DO demonstrate (do not state) that you have researched NYU and the program(s) you are applying to.

DO NOT cite Taylor Swift, Jay-Z & Alicia Keys, Frank Sinatra, or any other song, program, or film associated with New York City. It’s nice that they all include odes to New York City, but that doesn’t help us comprehend why YOU want to attend NYU specifically.

DO adhere to the word restriction. For such a significant topic, 400 words are not much space; therefore, make every word count.

You do not need to tell us how happy you are to take UB-45972, Section 6, at 11:00 a.m. on Mondays with Professor Slughorn in room 436 at KMEC.

And DO enjoy yourself while doing so. It is one of the few components of your college application over which you have complete control. Remember that the admissions committee is composed of humans who are just interested in getting to know you. You can do it!