All 5 supplements are required. Total writing: 1 list + 4 short essays.
Prompt 1: Intellectual Development List
List a selection of texts, resources and outlets that have contributed to your intellectual development outside of academic courses, including but not limited to books, journals, websites, podcasts, essays, plays, presentations, videos, museums and other content that you enjoy. (100 words or fewer)
Columbia 'Intellectual Development' Essay Q&A Slides
Q: What non-academic sources influenced me?
A:
Think beyond school.
A podcast, a specific website, a documentary.
How did it shift your worldview?
Q: Which specific texts/experiences reshaped my thinking?
A:
Name the exact book, journal, or museum.
"Yuval Noah Harari's Sapiens."
"A visit to the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum."
Be precise.
Q: How did resources drive new interests/actions?
A:
Show, don't just tell.
"Sapiens led me to research ancient civilizations daily."
"That documentary prompted my local climate advocacy."
Connect resource to action.
Q: Which examples show my unique curiosity?
A:
Pick what truly excites you.
"Stuff You Should Know" episodes on obscure topics.
A hallmark of the Columbia experience is being able to learn and thrive in an equitable and inclusive community with a wide range of perspectives. Tell us about an aspect of your own perspective, viewpoint or lived experience that is important to you, and describe how it has shaped the way you would learn from and contribute to Columbia's diverse and collaborative community. (150 words or fewer)
Columbia Community & Contribution Q&A Slides
Q: What unique perspective defines my identity?
A:
Choose one specific perspective or experience.
Examples: "growing up bilingual," "overcoming a cultural challenge."
Must be a core part of who you are.
Q: How has this shaped my values/worldview?
A:
Describe its personal significance in 1-2 sentences.
Example: "My immigrant background taught me to navigate cultural nuances."
Show its direct impact on you.
Q: How will this perspective enhance my learning at Columbia?
A:
Explain how it equips you to engage with diverse perspectives.
Example: "I seek out varied viewpoints in discussions."
Connect it directly to Columbia's learning environment.
Q: What specific contributions can I make to Columbia?
A:
Highlight specific actions you will take.
Example: "I will foster inclusive dialogue in study groups."
Use concrete examples: "Organizing community events honed my collaboration skills."
Q: How can I convey this authentically in 150 words?
A:
Keep sentences short and impactful.
Avoid generic statements like "I value diversity."
Show how your perspective adds value to Columbia's equitable and collaborative community.
Be genuine and specific.
Prompt 3: Adversity Navigation
In college/university, students are often challenged in ways that they could not predict or anticipate. It is important to us, therefore, to understand an applicant's ability to navigate through adversity. Please describe a barrier or obstacle you have faced and discuss the personal qualities, skills or insights you have developed as a result. (150 words or fewer)
Columbia Adversity Q&A Slides
Q: What specific challenge did I face?
A:
Choose one personal, social, or practical barrier.
Example: "balancing caregiving for a sibling with schoolwork."
Not a minor setback, but a significant obstacle.
Q: How did I respond to this obstacle?
A:
Briefly describe the barrier (1-2 sentences).
Example: "Financial strain forced me to work part-time during high school."
Focus on your actions to overcome it.
Q: What unique qualities/skills emerged?
A:
Highlight 1-2 personal qualities or skills.
Examples: resilience, empathy, problem-solving, time management, grit.
Use a concrete example: "Created a study schedule to maintain grades."
Q: How do these qualities prepare me for Columbia?
A:
Connect skills to future unpredictable challenges in college.
Example: "My adaptability will help me thrive in rigorous courses."
Show preparedness for academic or social hurdles.
Q: How to convey this authentically and concisely?
A:
Avoid clichés like "I learned to never give up."
Use active, specific language: "Negotiated with my boss for flexible hours."
Keep sentences concise, aiming for 10-12 words each.
Demonstrate how you'll apply these insights at Columbia.
Prompt 4: Why Columbia
Why are you interested in attending Columbia University? We encourage you to consider the aspect(s) that you find unique and compelling about Columbia. (150 words or fewer)
Why Columbia? Q&A Slides
Q: Why Columbia? (Beyond rankings)
A:
Focus on unique academic offerings.
Not just "great academics."
Example: "Columbia's Core Curriculum."
Q: What specific programs/resources?
A:
Name specific courses, research labs, institutes.
Show you've done deep research.
Example: "The Data Science Institute's research on X."
Q: How does Columbia's location matter?
A:
Connect NYC to your learning/goals.
Access to internships, cultural institutions, specific industries.
Example: "Leveraging NYC's startup scene for my entrepreneurship goals."
Q: What about Columbia's community?
A:
Mention specific clubs, student groups, or unique traditions.
How will you engage?
Example: "Joining the Columbia Daily Spectator for journalism."
Q: How do I show genuine fit?
A:
Link your past experiences/passions directly to Columbia's offerings.
Show a mutual benefit.
Example: "My passion for social justice aligns with Columbia's commitment to urban impact."
