Boston University (BU) requires applicants to respond to one of two supplemental essay prompts. Each response has a maximum limit of 300 words.
Required Prompts (Choose 1, 300-word limit)
1. Social or Community Issue
"Reflect on a social or community issue that deeply resonates with you. Why is it important to you, and how have you been involved in addressing or raising awareness about it?"
Community Issue Essay Slides
Q: What issue should you select?
A:
Focus on a specific, local problem.
Example: "The lack of accessible public transportation in my neighborhood."
This shows genuine, on-the-ground knowledge.
Q: Why does this issue matter to you?
A:
Connect the issue to a lived experience.
Example: "My grandmother’s reliance on rideshare services for medical appointments exposed me to a public transportation gap."
The connection must be personal and authentic.
Q: How did you get involved?
A:
Describe the specific action you took.
Show the skills you used to address the problem.
Example: "I launched a local petition to advocate for a new bus route. I organized community meetings to gather support."
Q: Final check and what to avoid?
A:
Do not just list volunteer hours.
Do not focus on global issues without a local, personal link.
Show how you gained insight or skills, not just what you did.
