How to Approach the Stanford Supplemental Essays 2020-2021

Read time: 2 mins
Share post
Jump to

How to Approach the Stanford Supplemental Essays 2020-2021

If you’re a top student excited by the combination of academic challenges and pleasant California weather, you probably have your heart set on applying to Stanford University. As one of the most well-regarded universities in the country, Stanford is many students’ go-to when it comes to identifying a school that values intellectual curiosity. But it would be wise to put your best foot forward when completing the Stanford supplemental essays 2020-2021 and let the school know that you’re not just applying to this Palo Alto university for its consistently high ranking.

You might be in it for Stanford’s unique majors such as “Democracy, Development, and the Rule of Law” or “Music, Science, and Technology.” Or you might want to pursue activism through participation in student organizations like “Transgender Task Force” or “Promoting Women’s Health and Human Rights.” Use your essays to highlight your eagerness and passion when it comes to the specific opportunities that Stanford has to offer. To help you understand each of the prompts better, I’ve outlined all of them, the do’s and don’ts for your responses, and additional tips for answering the Stanford supplemental essays 2020-2021.

Prompts for the Stanford Supplemental Essays 2020-2021

When reading the application and essays, admissions officers consider your potential to succeed academically, your commitment to expanding your intellectual horizons, and whether you’ve participated in a few extracurricular activities with exceptional depth. Make sure these characteristics shine through in your writing. Remember to think honestly about your approach, and not just choose generic or predictable routes in your responses. Without further ado, let’s look at the prompts that lie ahead of you.

Short Answer Questions

What is the most significant challenge that society faces today? (50 words)

50 words is extremely short and it’s not the easiest thing to make a strong impression so quickly. When planning your Stanford supplemental essays 2020-2021, consider that admissions officers will want to know how you think and what makes you tick. Are you a student who is willing to participate in conversations about current events or attend lectures featuring the eminent guest speakers that Stanford regularly hosts? Instead of trying to figure out what you think the school might be looking for, ask yourself if there’s an issue that you’re genuinely concerned about. 

Pick a challenge that resonates with your background or academic interests. The personal connection, the more meaningful your essay. You’ll be able to talk much more genuinely about something you’re actually familiar with, rather than exaggerating your knowledge on a topic you’ve decided you care about on a whim. Add a brief anecdote exemplifying your personal connection to the matter. If you have space, you might be able to dedicate a sentence or two to how you would use your education and work towards a resolution. 

Webinars You Might Like

Pursue Your Reach Schools with InGenius Prep and Increase Your Admissions Chances

Contact our Enrollment Team to learn more about our services and how we can lead your admissions journey.