The Tulane University supplemental essay is an optional, but highly recommended.
Supplemental Essay Prompt:
"Describe why you are interested in joining the Tulane community. Consider your experiences, talents, and values to illustrate what you would contribute to the Tulane community if admitted."
This essay has a maximum word count of 250 words. While it is optional, it is strongly recommended.
Tulane 'Why Us' Essay Slides
Q: Breaking down the prompt?
A:
The prompt is a two-way street. It asks what excites you about Tulane and what you will contribute.
The core is to create synergy between your qualities and Tulane's specific opportunities.
This question is an invitation to write a "Why Us" and "Why You" essay in one.
Q: What story should you tell?
A:
Select a specific experience or talent. Avoid a general list.
Example: Not "I play chess," but "I co-founded a chess club to teach strategy to younger students. This honed my leadership skills."
Identify the core value behind the experience, like mentorship or community engagement.
Q: What to write about?
A:
Cultural Preservation: How does your passion for an art form, tradition, or cuisine align with Tulane's New Orleans roots?
Social Entrepreneurship: How have your skills addressed a community need? Connect this to a specific program or initiative at Tulane's Taylor Center.
Environmental Advocacy: How does your commitment to climate action or ecological justice intersect with Tulane's location and its ByWater Institute?
Q: How will you contribute?
A:
Connect your unique value to a specific action on campus.
Reference a specific club, student organization, research center, or tradition.
Example: "I will apply my mentorship experience by joining the 'Tulane Chess Society' and helping to organize community tournaments."
Q: Why is Tulane the right fit?
A:
Name specific, unique opportunities to show deep research.
Example: "I am drawn to the 'Center for Public Service' because its community-based research aligns with my value of social justice."
Reference a professor, a specific class, or a campus resource.
Q: How to structure your story?
A:
Introduction (50 words): Hook the reader with your core passion and value.
Body (100 words): Detail your talent and how it connects to Tulane's offerings.
Conclusion (100 words): Express what you will contribute and how you will benefit from the Tulane community.
