grinnell college supplement essay

Grinnell College

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Want to see your chances of admission at Grinnell College?

We take every aspect of your personal profile into consideration when calculating your admissions chances.

Grinnell College’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Common app personal essay.

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

The Comprehensive Guide to Grinnell College

Grinnell College, renowned for its rigorous academic programs, vibrant community, and commitment to social justice, is a highly sought-after institution for aspiring students. If you have set your sights on Grinnell, this comprehensive guide will provide you with essential information and strategies to maximize your chances of gaining admission. From understanding the application process to showcasing your unique qualities, let's explore the key steps you should take to make your Grinnell dreams a reality.

Research and Familiarize Yourself with Grinnell College: Before diving into the application process, invest time in getting to know Grinnell College intimately. Explore their official website, read about their academic programs, faculty, campus culture, and extracurricular offerings. Understanding Grinnell's mission, values, and unique characteristics will help you tailor your application materials to align with what the college seeks in its students.

Academic Excellence: Grinnell College seeks intellectually curious and academically accomplished students. Focus on maintaining a challenging course load throughout high school, emphasizing core subjects such as English, mathematics, science, and social sciences. Seek out advanced placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses, where available, to showcase your academic capabilities and readiness for college-level coursework.

Extracurricular Involvement and Community Engagement: Grinnell values students who actively engage in their communities and demonstrate a commitment to making a positive impact. Participate in extracurricular activities that align with your interests and passions, showcasing leadership, dedication, and the ability to work collaboratively. Consider involvement in community service, clubs, sports, or artistic pursuits to highlight your multifaceted abilities.

Personal Statement: Your personal statement provides a platform to express your individuality, experiences, and aspirations. Use this essay to share your unique story, reflect on meaningful moments, and articulate why Grinnell is the ideal environment for your personal and intellectual growth. Be authentic, introspective, and demonstrate your ability to think critically and engage with complex ideas.

Supplemental Essays: Grinnell College often requires additional essays or short responses that allow you to delve deeper into specific aspects of your character, interests, or experiences. Approach these prompts thoughtfully, using them as an opportunity to showcase your values, intellectual curiosity, and alignment with Grinnell's community and mission. Be concise, focused, and provide examples to support your arguments.

Recommendations: Choose recommenders who can speak to your academic abilities, personal qualities, and potential for success at Grinnell. Select individuals who know you well and can provide specific anecdotes and insights into your character, work ethic, and achievements. Cultivate strong relationships with your recommenders, keeping them informed about your goals and providing them with ample time to write impactful letters of recommendation.

Standardized Testing: As of the knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, Grinnell College is test-optional, allowing applicants to choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. However, please ensure to verify the most up-to-date admissions policy, as testing requirements may change over time. If you believe your scores accurately reflect your abilities, submitting them can strengthen your application.

Interviews: Grinnell College offers optional interviews with admissions representatives, which can provide an opportunity to showcase your passion, enthusiasm, and fit with the college. If given the chance, take advantage of the interview option by preparing thoughtful responses, researching the college thoroughly, and being ready to discuss your academic interests, personal experiences, and why Grinnell resonates with you.

Conclusion: Gaining admission to Grinnell College requires careful preparation, a strong academic record, active engagement in your community, and a genuine commitment to social justice and intellectual growth. By understanding Grinnell's values, excelling academically, and presenting an authentic application, you can enhance your chances of being accepted to this prestigious institution. Remember, Grinnell seeks students who will contribute positively to its vibrant community and make a difference in the world. Good luck on your journey to Grinnell College!

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Grinnell College requesting a 100-word max supplemental through their portal by Feb. 3

Hey everyone! For anyone applying to Grinnell, I just received this email:

Thank you for submitting your application to Grinnell College! This time of year we are busy reading applications to learn more about the talented and diverse students who are considering joining us in the fall.

We are often curious why students choose to apply to some colleges and not others, so we are giving all of our applicants the optional opportunity to briefly tell us why they chose to apply to Grinnell.

We know that you are busy; we do not intend for this to be an additional essay. No formal structure or formatting is expected. To help emphasize that point we are limiting your response to no more than 100 words.

If you choose to submit a response, you must do so through your applicant status page no later than Friday, February 3, 2017 . After you log in to your account, you will find a link to submit your response in the forms section under your application checklist .

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office at (641) 269-3600 or at [email protected] . We look forward to reading your application!

Grinnell College Office of Admission

Although this is optional, I would highly recommend anyone applying to submit this to the best of their ability. Good luck!

• [email protected]
• (650) 338-8226

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What Does Grinnell College Look for in Prospective Students?

By Eric Eng

As one of the most prestigious liberal arts colleges in the country, Grinnell College has a highly selective admissions process that looks for the most academically talented and well-rounded candidates.

Prospective students interested in attending Grinnell College should be aware of the admission requirements, factors that influence admission chances, and tips and tricks for making their applications stand out from the pack.

This article will provide an in-depth guide to help prospective students navigate the admissions process at Grinnell College.

Admission Requirements for Grinnell College

Grinnell College has a rigorous set of admission requirements, including a completed online application, official ACT/SAT scores, official transcripts, and two academic evaluations. Additionally, students are required to submit a personal essay and supplemental materials outlining their extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and awards.

Students who wish to submit standardized test scores will need to submit an official score report from ACT or College Board to Grinnell College.

Furthermore, Grinnell College also considers a student’s demonstrated interest in the college as part of their admission process. This can include attending information sessions, campus visits, and interviews with admissions counselors.

The college also encourages students to showcase their unique talents and experiences through their application materials, as they value diversity and individuality in their student body. Overall, Grinnell College seeks to admit students who are not only academically strong, but also passionate and engaged members of their communities.

Grinnell College’s Admissions Process: A Comprehensive Guide

The admissions process at Grinnell College is comprehensive. After submitting an application, a team of admissions officers will review the application materials and make a preliminary decision.

If the student is selected for further consideration, they will receive an invitation for an interview. During the interview, students will have the opportunity to discuss their academic and extra-curricular achievements, as well as their personal interests and passions.

The interview is an essential part of the admissions process, and students are encouraged to prepare thoroughly.

In addition to the interview, Grinnell College also considers other factors when making admissions decisions. These include the student’s academic record, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and any additional materials submitted with the application.

The admissions committee takes a holistic approach to reviewing applications, considering each student as a whole person rather than just a set of numbers or achievements. This allows for a more personalized and fair admissions process, ensuring that each student is evaluated based on their unique strengths and potential.

How to Impress the Admissions Committee at Grinnell College

Aside from asking the question, “What does Grinnell College look for?”, it’s crucial to know that this school is looking for students who are not only academically talented but also demonstrate exceptional leadership skills, intellectual curiosity, and a passion for community service.

To impress the admissions committee, students should focus on building a diverse and well-rounded application. Showcasing academic achievements, involvement in extracurricular activities, and a strong commitment to community service can all prove to be advantageous when applying to Grinnell College. Additionally, students should be authentic, honest, and genuine throughout their application.

One way to showcase leadership skills is by taking on leadership roles in extracurricular activities. This could include being a captain of a sports team, leading a club, or organizing a community service project. Students should also highlight any awards or recognition they have received for their leadership abilities.

Grinnell College values diversity and encourages students from all backgrounds to apply. Students should highlight any unique experiences or perspectives they bring to the table. This could include cultural or linguistic fluency, experience overcoming adversity, or involvement in social justice initiatives.

Factors that Influence Your Admission Chances at Grinnell College

Admission to Grinnell College is highly competitive, and several factors influence admission chances. These factors include academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays.

Additionally, Grinnell College considers diversity and a candidate’s potential to contribute to the school community. Therefore, students must work hard to showcase their unique strengths and experiences in their applications.

One important factor that can influence admission chances at Grinnell College is demonstrated interest. This means that students who show a genuine interest in the school by attending information sessions, visiting campus, and communicating with admissions officers may have an advantage in the application process.

Another factor that can impact admission chances is the availability of space in the incoming class. Grinnell College has a limited number of spots available each year, so even highly qualified applicants may not be admitted if the class is already full.

It’s also worth noting that Grinnell College has a need-blind admission policy, which means that a student’s ability to pay for tuition is not considered during the admission process. However, financial need may be taken into account when determining the amount of financial aid a student is eligible to receive.

Overall, the admission process at Grinnell College is holistic and takes into account a variety of factors to ensure that the incoming class is diverse, talented, and capable of contributing to the school community.

What Does Grinnell College Look for? Understanding the Importance of Grades and Test Scores for Grinnell College Admissions

Grades and test scores are crucial components of the admission process at Grinnell College. The admissions committee carefully scrutinizes academic performance, looking for consistently high grades and challenging coursework.

Performance on standardized tests is also carefully considered, and students are encouraged to take the ACT or SAT multiple times to achieve their best score. Although test scores and grades are not the only factors that determine admission, they are critical components that must be highlighted in the application process.

In addition to grades and test scores, Grinnell College also values extracurricular activities and community involvement. The admissions committee looks for well-rounded individuals who have demonstrated leadership, creativity, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their community.

Applicants are encouraged to showcase their involvement in clubs, sports, volunteer work, and other activities outside of the classroom. These experiences can provide valuable insight into an applicant’s character and potential for success at Grinnell College.

Extracurricular Activities That Can Boost Your Chances of Getting into Grinnell College

Extracurricular activities are essential to the college application process and can boost your chances of getting into Grinnell College. The admissions committee is looking for students who demonstrate leadership, motivation, and a passion for their interests.

Therefore, students should seek out opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities that align with their passions and interests. These activities can include clubs, sports teams, volunteering, internships, or summer experiences.

One way to stand out in the college application process is to take on leadership roles within your extracurricular activities. This can include becoming a captain of a sports team, a president of a club, or a coordinator of a volunteer project.

By taking on these roles, you demonstrate your ability to take initiative, work collaboratively, and make a positive impact in your community.

It’s also important to note that quality is more important than quantity when it comes to extracurricular activities. Admissions committees are looking for students who have a deep commitment and passion for their interests, rather than those who simply participate in a long list of activities.

Therefore, it’s better to focus on a few activities that you are truly passionate about and have made a significant impact in, rather than spreading yourself too thin.

What Does Grinnell College Look for? Writing a Standout Personal Essay for Grinnell College Admissions

The personal essay is one of the essential components of the Grinnell College application. It is an opportunity for students to showcase their writing skills, personality, and passion for learning.

To write a standout essay, students should be authentic, creative, and reflective. The essay should highlight the student’s achievements, interests, and goals and demonstrate their fit for Grinnell College. It is recommended that students seek feedback on their essays from teachers, mentors, or peers.

Additionally, it is important for students to carefully read and follow the essay prompt provided by Grinnell College. The prompt may ask specific questions or require students to address certain topics.

Students should also pay attention to the word count limit and ensure that their essay is well-organized and free of grammatical errors. A well-written personal essay can make a significant impact on the admissions decision, so it is crucial for students to take the time to craft a thoughtful and compelling piece.

Tips for Navigating the Supplemental Application Requirements at Grinnell College

The supplemental application requirements at Grinnell College are designed to give the admissions committee a more in-depth look at the candidate. These requirements may include short-answer questions, additional essays, or creative projects.

Students should carefully read the supplemental requirements and tailor their responses to the specific prompts. It is also important to use these opportunities to showcase unique skills and experiences that may not be evident in other parts of the application

One important tip for navigating the supplemental application requirements at Grinnell College is to start early. These requirements can take a significant amount of time and effort to complete, and waiting until the last minute can lead to rushed and incomplete responses.

Additionally, students should consider seeking feedback from teachers, counselors, or other trusted advisors to ensure that their responses are clear, concise, and effectively communicate their strengths and qualifications.

Another important consideration is to be authentic and genuine in your responses. Admissions committees are looking for students who are a good fit for their institution, and being true to yourself and your experiences can help you stand out from other applicants.

Avoid trying to write what you think the committee wants to hear, and instead focus on sharing your unique perspective and voice.

What Does Grinnell College Look for? Securing Strong Letters of Recommendation for Your Grinnell College Application

Letters of recommendation are an essential part of the Grinnell College application process. The recommendations provide insight into the student’s academic and leadership abilities. It is recommended that students choose teachers, mentors, or coaches who know them well and can speak to their strengths.

Students should also provide their recommenders with a detailed list of their achievements, interests, and goals to help them write a strong letter. Students should also ensure that their recommenders submit their letters by the appropriate deadline.

Another important aspect to consider when securing strong letters of recommendation is to give your recommenders enough time to write the letter. It is recommended that students ask for letters of recommendation at least a month before the application deadline.

This gives the recommenders enough time to write a thoughtful and detailed letter. Additionally, students should follow up with their recommenders a week before the deadline to ensure that the letter has been submitted.

By giving your recommenders enough time and following up with them, you can ensure that your letters of recommendation are strong and will help you stand out in the application process.

Interviewing for Admission: What to Expect at Grinnell College

The interview is an essential component of the Grinnell College application process. The interview provides an opportunity for students to showcase their personality, interests, and passions.

During the interview, students can expect to be asked a series of questions relating to their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and goals. Students should also prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the school and community.

Students should dress appropriately, arrive on time, and be prepared to showcase their best qualities.

It is important to note that the interview is not the only factor in the admissions decision. Grinnell College also considers academic transcripts, test scores, essays, and letters of recommendation.

However, a strong interview can certainly enhance a student’s application and demonstrate their fit for the college. Additionally, Grinnell College offers both in-person and virtual interview options to accommodate students’ schedules and preferences.

Overall, the interview is a valuable opportunity for students to showcase their unique qualities and learn more about the college.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying to Grinnell College

Now that we’ve explored the question, “What does Grinnell College look for?”, it’s time to craft a compelling college application! But before that, take note that there are several common mistakes that students make when applying to Grinnell College.

These mistakes include submitting incomplete applications, not highlighting academic achievements, submitting a weak personal essay, and failing to tailor the application to Grinnell College’s specific requirements.

Additionally, students should avoid using vague language, cliches, and platitudes in their applications. Students should carefully proofread their applications and seek feedback from trusted sources.

Another common mistake that students make when applying to Grinnell College is not demonstrating a genuine interest in the school. Admissions officers want to see that applicants have done their research and understand what makes Grinnell unique.

Students should take the time to learn about the school’s values, programs, and extracurricular activities and explain how they align with their own interests and goals.

Finally, students should avoid exaggerating their accomplishments or fabricating information on their applications. Admissions officers can easily verify the information provided, and dishonesty can result in serious consequences, including revocation of admission offers.

It is important for students to present themselves honestly and authentically, highlighting their strengths and achievements without embellishment.

The Benefits of Early Decision and Early Action Applications at Grinnell College

Grinnell College offers two early application options for prospective students : Early Decision and Early Action. Early Decision is a binding agreement, meaning that if a student is accepted, they must accept the offer of admission and withdraw any other college applications.

Early Action is non-binding, meaning that students have until May 1 to make their final decision. The benefits of applying early include a higher likelihood of being admitted and a faster application timeline. However, students should carefully consider their options and weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each program.

One benefit of applying early decision is that it can demonstrate a student’s strong commitment to attending Grinnell College. This can be particularly advantageous for students who have Grinnell as their top choice and are willing to commit to attending if accepted.

Additionally, applying early decision can increase a student’s chances of receiving financial aid, as colleges often have more funds available for early decision applicants.

On the other hand, early action can be a good option for students who want to keep their options open and compare financial aid packages from multiple colleges.

It also allows students to continue to work on their applications and potentially improve their chances of admission before the regular decision deadline. Ultimately, the decision to apply early decision or early action should be based on a student’s individual circumstances and priorities.

Financial Aid and Scholarships Available to Students at Grinnell College

After answering the question, “What does Grinnell College look for in its applicants?”, it’s time to consider the financial aspects in applying to this prestigious university.

Grinnell College is committed to providing access to a high-quality education to all students, regardless of their financial situation. Therefore, the college offers a range of financial aid and scholarship programs to help students finance their education.

Students can apply for need-based grants, work-study programs, and merit-based scholarships. Additionally, Grinnell College offers a no-loan policy, meaning that all financial aid awards are grants that do not need to be repaid.

Furthermore, Grinnell College has a dedicated financial aid office that provides personalized assistance to students and their families throughout the financial aid application process.

The office also offers financial literacy resources and workshops to help students manage their finances during and after college. Grinnell College is committed to ensuring that all students have the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.

Life as a Student at Grinnell College: Academics, Community, and Campus Culture

Life as a student at Grinnell College is challenging and rewarding, with a strong focus on academics, community, and campus culture. Grinnell College offers over 26 majors in several fields, including the sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

The college also offers ample opportunities to participate in research, internships, and study abroad programs. The campus community is tight-knit, with a range of clubs, sports teams, and events that foster a sense of belonging.

Students can expect to participate in traditions such as convocation and community day, as well as the annual Battle of the Bands. The campus culture prioritizes inclusivity and diversity, with a range of clubs and organizations dedicated to social justice and community service.

This comprehensive guide to the Grinnell College admissions process provides prospective students with a roadmap to applying and securing admission to one of the country’s top liberal arts colleges.

Students should start preparing their application materials early, seek out opportunities to showcase their unique strengths and experiences, and be authentic throughout the process. With dedication, hard work, and commitment, students can make their dreams of attending Grinnell College a reality.

One of the unique aspects of life at Grinnell College is the emphasis on interdisciplinary learning. Students are encouraged to explore different fields of study and to think critically about the connections between them.

This approach to education fosters creativity and innovation, and prepares students for a rapidly changing job market. Additionally, the college has a strong commitment to sustainability, with initiatives such as a campus-wide composting program and a student-run organic farm.

These efforts reflect the college’s values of social responsibility and environmental stewardship.

Outside of the classroom, students at Grinnell College have access to a range of resources to support their personal and professional development. The Center for Careers, Life, and Service offers career counseling, job and internship search assistance, and networking opportunities.

The Wellness Center provides mental health services, health education, and wellness programming. These resources, combined with the supportive campus community, help students to thrive both academically and personally during their time at Grinnell College.

Grinnell College places high importance on academic excellence, unique personal characteristics, and community engagement when selecting their future students.

Harnessing these criteria can significantly enhance an applicant’s chances of being admitted to this prestigious institution. Profound attention to academic performance, participation in extracurricular activities, and a well-crafted personal essay expressing individuality can distinguish an applicant in the admission process.

Navigating these requirements, though, can be a challenging endeavor. Luckily, there’s no need to face it alone. AdmissionSight is available to provide expert guidance every step of the way.

With a robust understanding of what Grinnell College and other top universities look for in applicants, our team helps craft a compelling application that showcases a student’s unique talents, strengths, and experiences.

So why wait? Gain the competitive edge needed to secure a spot in the dream college and unlock the door to higher educational success and book an initial consultation with us today.

Remember, every successful journey begins with a single step. So take that step towards securing an exciting future. Contact us today!

Want to assess your chances of admission? Take our FREE chances calculator today!

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What do the 2024-25 supplemental essay prompts really mean, and how should you approach them? CEA's experts are here to break them all down.

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charlotte 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, university of north carolina at greensboro 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, university of notre dame 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, university of oklahoma 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide , university of oregon 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, university of pennsylvania (upenn) 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, university of pittsburgh 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide , university of richmond 2023-24 supplemental essay guide, university of san diego 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide , university of san francisco 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, university of southern california (usc) 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, university of texas at austin 2024-25 essay prompt guide, university of tulsa 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, university of vermont 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, university of virginia (uva) 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, university of washington (uw) 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, university of wisconsin-madison 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, vanderbilt university 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, vassar college 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, virginia tech 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, wake forest university 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide, washington and lee university 2023-24 supplemental essay guide, washington university in st. louis 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, wellesley college 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, williams college 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, worcester polytechnic institute (wpi) 2023-24 supplemental essay prompt guide, yale university 2024-25 supplemental essay prompt guide.

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Grinnell College Undergraduate College Application Essays

These Grinnell College college application essays were written by students accepted at Grinnell College. All of our sample college essays include the question prompt and the year written. Please use these sample admission essays responsibly.

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College Application Essays accepted by Grinnell College

It's the only way to go megan l. digregorio, grinnell college.

Ever since middle school, I have envisioned my college experience on a small, New England campus, with an abundance of trees, grand Gothic architecture, and intimate classes allowing for a constant dialogue. However, as I began my college search...

Getting My Kicks Anonymous

I still can't believe that when faced with the certainty of a punch in the stomach from a two hundred-pound black belt, I found myself thinking, "I hope he hits me hard." This may seem a little surprising -- masochistic, even -- but it was only...

The Puzzle Joseph Schubert

“Peux-j'aller à... el baño? No… Me Permite ir…à la toilette? No…” My head spun, my bladder throbbed and my voice stuttered in some incomprehensible, newly invented language. Regretting all the water I drank at morning swim practice, I attempted to...

Drawing My Life Anonymous

By now, color and form are two essential ways I express myself. In my art I often draw myself as a stick figure with a shock of bright red hair. My family, friends, and even strangers have always commented on the thousands of freckles that pepper...

A Memory of Crab Legs Anonymous

Each of our plates was piled high with crab legs, easily the best part of the buffet, our taste buds descended from the seafood rich island that had raised us. We passed around the poor quality plastic crackers, at first, patience feeding off of...

Window Panes and Scattered Nails Taryn Mulvihill

The sunlight collapses lazily against the windows of our tall, stately house today, yet the gracefully arching pathways and crisp white paint job hold steadfast against the lackluster attack. To some it may be a palace, while others see only a...

Gender in Computer Science and Classics Anonymous

In September 2015, I found myself in what was, for me, an unprecedented situation: the boys in my Computer Science class outnumbered the girls. The difference was not a significant one – six boys to four girls – but consider this. Of the 180...

Flies Deeptansha Dwivedi

Sweat dripped from my brow as I carefully set my roll of tape onto the granite kitchen counter in front of me. My masterpiece was finally complete. As I slid down from my stool, I was careful to not let my knobby ten-year-old knees topple into the...

Snaps Kartikeya Thiyam Sundaram

I inched closer with silent footsteps, holding my breath… and Click! As the moment froze in my camera, the sparrows whizzed past and flew into the trees.

My tryst with photography began many years ago upon discovering the old 35mm Leica in Dad’s...

I'm sure Alexander Montgomery Hughes

“Are you sure you want to make that move?” Grandpa asks.

I take yet another look at the board in front of me and walk myself through it one more time, step-by-step. He’ll take my rook―he has to―with his last bishop, which’ll allow me to corner his...

Recent Questions about Grinnell College

The Question and Answer section for Grinnell College is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

Grinnell Supplemental Essay

<p>No supplemental essay is showing up for me to write on the common app website. Is this just me, or has Grinnell dropped their supplement completely? If so, does anyone know why?</p>

<p>grinnell doesn’t have a supplement to the common app! </p>

<p>They didn’t 3 years ago either! Just a question - why do you want to go here I believe.</p>

<p>When my son applied, it was "how did you hear about us?, I think.</p>

<p>BTW, my son said something like, “My mother found it in the Fiske Guide and then we visited and loved it.” He was accepted.</p>

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The Complete College Essay Handbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing the Personal Statement and the Supplemental Essays Paperback – July 19, 2021

Want to write memorable college application essays in less time, with less stress? This book will guide you through the process, with hands-on activities, practical tips, and tons of real application essays—personal statements and supplemental essays—by real students!

Finally—the book you’ve been waiting for! The Complete College Essay Handbook demystifies the entire college essay writing process with easy-to-follow directions and hands-on activities that have worked for hundreds of students. Maschal, a former admissions officer, and Wood, a professional writer and writing teacher, draw on their combined expertise to help students craft a successful set of application essays for every school on their list. Supplemental essays in particular can seem overwhelming—some schools ask students to write as many as six essays in addition to the personal statement. Maschal and Wood identify four types of supplemental essays, walking students through how to write each one and then how to recycle these essays for other schools.

The Complete College Essay Handbook walks students through:

• What makes an essay stand out, drawing on sample essays by real students to illustrate main points
• Brainstorming activities to find the best topics for the personal statement and supplemental essays
• How to write the two central components of every application essay: scene and reflection
• Editing and revision—including techniques to cut down or expand an essay to hit the word limit
• The four types of supplemental essays and how to decode the different essay prompts, using actual essay questions
• The strategy behind a well-rounded set of application essays

The Complete College Essay Handbook is a no-frills, practical guide that will give students the confidence and know-how they need to craft the best essays for every single school on their list—in less time and with less stress.

This book is for students, high school teachers and counselors, parents, and anyone else who wants to help students through the college essay writing process.

• Print length 212 pages
• Language English
• Publication date July 19, 2021
• Dimensions 6 x 0.48 x 9 inches
• ISBN-10 173731598X
• ISBN-13 978-1737315988
• See all details

Products related to this item

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ 1 (July 19, 2021)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 212 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 173731598X
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1737315988
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 12.2 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 0.48 x 9 inches
• #404 in College Guides (Books)
• #571 in College Entrance Test Guides (Books)

About the author

Brittany maschal.

Dr. Brittany Maschal is the founder of Brittany Maschal Consulting, LLC, an educational consulting firm that works with students applying to college and graduate school.

Brittany has held positions in admissions and student services at the University of Pennsylvania at Penn Law and The Wharton School; Princeton University (undergraduate) and the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs; and the Johns Hopkins University-Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS). She has served on admissions committees with American Councils for International Education and International Research and Exchanges Board; as an invited speaker to numerous community programs in the US and abroad; and as an alumni interviewer and admissions representative for the Graduate School of Education at the University of Pennsylvania. Brittany was also an Executive Board member and Membership Director of the Penn GSE Alumni Association.

Brittany received her doctorate in higher education from the George Washington University in 2012. Prior, she attended the University of Pennsylvania for her master’s, and the University of Vermont for her bachelor’s degree—a degree she obtained in three years. Brittany is a member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association and a member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches.

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Customers find the themes in the book comprehensive and personal. They also appreciate the writing style as clear, empathic, and gentle.

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Customers find the themes in the book comprehensive, inspiring, and personal. They also say it's a gem of a book, chock full of real essays by real students. Customers also appreciate the brainstorming exercises and writing prompts.

"...was the emphasis on how students can find a meaningful and very personal story in seemingly small every day events, coupled with the very practical..." Read more

"...exercises, and writing prompts - all designed to be the perfect guided experience . It’s a gem of a book, chock full of real essays by real students!" Read more

"...This book really taught me how to write a concise , personal, meaningful college essay. So glad I found this book!" Read more

"...Not only does it help you write the common app essay , but it teaches you how to write a wide variety of supplemental essays which are just as..." Read more

Customers find the writing style clear, empathic, and gentle. They also say the book is chock full of real essays by real students.

"... It's written so clearly , and with great empathy and the right amount of gentle humor...." Read more

"...It’s a gem of a book, chock full of real essays by real students!" Read more

"... Love the clarity and concision too. I strongly recommend for students and teachers." Read more

"...The authors are very down to earth and give simple but important tips for writing a stand out essay...." Read more

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Submitting Recommendations and Portfolios

Recommendations.

At Grinnell, we prefer that you use the Common Application recommendations forms:

• 2 teacher recommendations 
• Secondary/high school counselor recommendation. Home-school applicants may have a parent complete this form.

Portfolios for Art and Music

Grinnell does not require auditions or portfolio reviews for students planning to pursue a degree in the arts. However, you are welcome to submit your work for review by the admission staff.

If you wish to submit supplemental materials, including writing samples, you may do so only after you have submitted your Common Application . To submit supplemental materials, please use the "Edit Portfolio" link on your applicant status page .

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