rice university supplemental essays 2023

Architecture Essay Prompt: Why are you determined to study architecture? Could you please elaborate on your past experiences and how they have motivated you to apply to Rice University and the School of Architecture in particular? (250 words max)

Rice University Supplemental Essay Prompt #5

Architecture Essay Prompt: Please expand on relevant experiences and motivations outside of your academic trajectory that have inspired you to study architecture, focusing on aspects that are not accommodated by other prompts in the application. (250 words max)

Rice University's "The Box"

The Rice Box: In keeping with Rice's long-standing tradition, please share an image of something that appeals to you.

How to Write Each Supplemental Essay Prompt for Rice University

How to write rice supplemental essay prompt #1.

This essay is what we call a “Why Major” essay, and at 150 words, it’s relatively short.

You’ll find a step-by-step guide to writing this essay at this link . We recommend reading the whole guide, but here’s the SparkNotes version:

Step #1: Imagine a mini-movie of the moments that led you to your interest and create a simple, bullet-point outline.

Step #2: Put your moments (aka the “scenes” of your mini-movie) in chronological order, as it’ll help you see how your interests developed. It also makes it easier to write transitions.

Step #3: Decide if you want to include a specific thesis that explicitly states your central argument—in this case, what you want to study and why. This thesis can be at the beginning, middle, or end of your essay.

Step #4: Write a draft!

Here’s a good example of a strong Why Major essay. It was written for Yale but offers a solid framework to emulate (note, though, that you’ll get a whole 50 more words for your Rice Why Major).

Rice University Essay Example 1:

Storytelling has shaped me. At four, I read The Lion King until I’d memorized it. I’d snuggle in bed as my dad read Wilderness Champion or Tom Sawyer. Later, I found audio and visual storytelling, mesmerized by This American Life and Whiplash. Now, I create my own stories through newspaper satire, podcasting, and locally-broadcasted radio. My major at Yale would be the next chapter in my life of storytelling. I’d explore past narratives and how they can be digitally innovated. Whether exploring media’s disfiguration of truth, developing screenplays, or analyzing mise-en-scene, I hope to pioneer new networks of connection. (99 words) — — —

Tips + Analysis

(Quickly) hook the reader. The first line performs a few functions here. First, it pulls us in and makes us curious about what exactly she means by claiming that storytelling has shaped her. Second, it gives us a sense of a core aspect of her identity and values.

Show the development of your interest through moments that connect to core values. She packs a nice amount of detail into 99 words. The details she includes point toward her values and identity, as do her interests in newspaper satire, podcasting, and local radio. The details in the second paragraph show some nice depth and development.

Describe how Rice can help with the next steps. She links her brief origin story to how college might help her on her path, and how it will help her develop both her understanding and her values.

Architecture students, write about your other areas of academic interest. Technically speaking, you essentially have three academic-focused prompts for Rice, for a total of 650 words (lucky you!), so it’s important not to repeat yourself too much and to share multiple aspects of your academic interests. When filling out your Common App for Rice, you’ll be asked to note your “second and third areas of interest, including non-majors and areas outside the school to which you are applying.” So, since you’ll be thoroughly covering your interest in architecture from a couple of different angles in Prompts 4 and 5, consider using this essay to speak to your interest in those other subjects, maybe touching on architecture only briefly but not in a way that will feel redundant to the information you’ll share in the architecture-specific prompts. That will help to communicate to Rice the wide breadth of your academic curiosity.

Here’s another example from a Rice applicant with some pretty impressive extracurriculars:

Rice University Essay Example 2:

Over the past summer, I conducted research as a full-time intern at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. The primary purpose of my research was to engineer a more efficient halogenase enzyme. This enzyme was designed to decrease costs and increase the yield of halogenated products used to create a novel biomaterial for F-35 aircraft. Applying all the knowledge I’d gained throughout high school to figure out this problem was an incredible introduction to the world of multidisciplinary science. I built on my years spent studying organic chemistry, biochemistry, and microbiology, both in school and Science Olympiad, with a focus on utilizing engineering principles in order to create a product. Throughout the summer, I enjoyed being able to apply my knowledge collaboratively, pulling from a vast range of scientific fields. It’s this experience that has greatly influenced my decision to continue applying myself interdisciplinarily and continue my undergraduate studies in biomedical engineering. — — —

how to write Rice Supplemental Essay Prompt #2

At 150 words, this is a shorter version of the typical “Why us?” essay.

Because this essay is so short, the key will be finding 2-3 reasons that set Rice apart from all the other schools you’re applying to.

Here’s the “Why us?” essay guide —in this case, the Cornell example is probably the best one to check out, since it focuses on reasons that set Cornell apart. In that guide we talk a bit about how to tackle the shorter version of this essay, and the Tufts example is a great one.

As you write, try to avoid these common mistakes:

Six Common Mistakes Students Make on “Why Us?” Essays

Mistake #1 : Writing about the school's size, location, reputation, weather, or ranking

Mistake #2 : Simply using emotional language to demonstrate fit

Mistake #3 : Screwing up the mascot, stadium, team colors or names of any important people or places on campus

Mistake #4 : Parroting the brochures or website language

Mistake #5 : Describing traditions the school is well-known for

Mistake #6 : Thinking of this as only a "Why them" essay

Here’s a great sample essay for this prompt:

Rice University Essay Example 3:

Last year I attended California Girls State. Like myself, many delegates were pursuing careers in STEM, and we helped each other understand the importance of having a supportive community of intelligent, empowered young women. So when I found Women LEAD at Rice, I was excited to apply. Women LEAD will further expose me to views on leadership from a woman’s perspective while networking with other bright, talented women so I too can become a leader and inspire others. I love that Rice is one of the only schools I’m applying to that directly focuses on student well-being and community through things like President and Dean’s Study Breaks, helping students find balance before finals. Additionally, I want to work with the Rice Student Volunteer Program, helping build community in Houston, and with Baylor College of Medicine Patient Discharge Initiative to help underserved patient populations, as I’ve loved volunteering at Saddleback Memorial. — — —

Tips + Analysis

The “us” in “Why us” means you + Rice. In other words, connect your “why me” to your “why Rice.” This student does that right from the start, sharing a leadership experience that inspired her (STEM-focused delegates at California Girls State) and connecting it to a relevant opportunity that’s attracted her to Rice (Women LEAD). Try to do that as often as you can throughout the essay, as doing so shows, in dating parlance, why you and Rice are perfect for each other.

Be specific. We’re talking about courses, professors, programs, opportunities, clubs, etc., that are unique to Rice—like this student’s mention of Women LEAD, President and Dean’s Study Breaks, and the Student Volunteer Program. And make sure to spell them correctly!

Make it clear that Rice is unique, and say how. Admission officials don’t just want to know how you’d take advantage of their school’s offerings; they also want to know “why Rice” over other schools you may have applied to. So in addition to academic and extracurricular specifics, try to find one or two examples of an opportunity that you can’t find anywhere else, or in this student’s case (in the school’s support for student well-being), at only a few other schools.

Show a range of interests. The broad scope of this prompt (“what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you”) is intentional. It’s not just asking about your chosen major or your academic interests; it’s probing for details about the breadth of your interests. Of course, with just 150 words, you don’t have a ton of space for the whole laundry list, so you’ll need to be judicious in choosing your range of reasons “why.” This student does a nice job of that in the short space allotted, pivoting from leadership opportunities (Women LEAD) to campus community (study breaks) to volunteer programs (Rice Student Volunteer Program and Saddleback Memorial) to an academic example (Baylor Patient Discharge Initiative).

Here are two more strong examples for Rice’s “Why us?” prompt:

Rice University Essay Example 4:

At heart, I am a collaborator. From working with my Science Olympiad team for hundreds of hours each year to playing in numerous extracurricular orchestral ensembles, I’ve learned that the best work I do is with and for those around me. I want to study in the Rice Department of Bioengineering because of the large emphasis placed on collaboration. With its focus on multidisciplinary work and experiential learning, I know that I will be able to excel in Rice’s team-based environment, taking advantage of its small classes in order to forge tight bonds with my peers around me. Rice has more than 250 student organizations, and with access to the Texas Medical Center, a facility abounding with opportunities, and cutting edge research and technology on campus I know that at Rice, I will be able to fully pursue my interests both academically and collaboratively. — — —

Rice University Essay Example 5:

Just like the Owl camouflages to integrate into its environment, I’ll strive to become one with the Rice community by taking advantage of its numerous opportunities. While Basmati Beats will give me the platform to indulge my Indian roots in a collaborative form of dancing, I can continue imparting knowledge to others with Nano Owls. The opportunity to teach nanoscience to students in Houston will empower the vision I had with the D-STEM Society in my Dehli community. I’m looking forward to 3 days of absolute entertainment at OwlCon. With its 750 annual participants, I hope to share my passion for gaming with like-minded individuals. While The Rice Memorial Center will be my temporary home for 36 hours as I work on complex algorithms at the annual HackRice, The Hoot will always keep me company during exhausting all-nighters. I hope to spread my wings and explore the night at Rice University. — — —

how to write Rice Supplemental Essay Prompt #3

It’s worth noting right out of the gate that Rice’s decision to give you a full 500 words for this essay, much more than the “Why us?” and “Why Major” prompts, is pretty telling. The school is proud of and committed to its culture of inclusion and collaboration, and this prompt offers you an opportunity to show how your own background would help you contribute in a meaningful and unique way.

Check out this strong sample essay for this prompt, and we’ll analyze why it works on the other side.

Rice University Essay Example 6:

What are you? Mixed-race people and people of color get this question all the time. While a part of me wants to respond with “a bit tired, thanks for asking”, I usually just end up telling them I am half Indian, half European. I know that my ambiguous features, darker skin, and unusual name makes people uncertain about what my background is, and that in turn makes people uncomfortable -- they don't know what box to put me in. I am both Jewish and half-Indian, an unusual blend of cultures. Although I’m not particularly religious, I often see things from a Jewish point of view: Tikkun Olam and Tzedakah, peace and neighborly love, community and solidarity. I always strive to make my community a better place than it was initially, and to make sure that I stand with those that may be facing economic or social issues. My time as a counselor-in-training for a Jewish summer camp also helped me learn about other people’s interpretations of Jewish values from a wide range of ages, including from my fellow counselors. In addition, the Indian side of my family exposes me to a wide range of Indian culture, from the artwork in my grandparents house, to the stories from when my grandfather moved to America for school. Through this half of me, I have been able to experience, to a small extent, what it’s like to be seen as “different”. Even though I’ve never even been outside the United States, I’m still considered at least slightly foreign to most people. This helps me better empathize with people of color who may be facing much tougher questions than I ever was. The junction between these two identities gives me a unique intersectional identity that I can use to better empathize, communicate, and interact with other people. Intersectional identity is something that everyone has at some level, even if it isn’t apparent in their appearance. As someone who has a diverse set of experiences, I have a genuine curiosity for what intersectional identities other people have hidden away, and appreciate cultural exchanges with those around me. Even just sharing latkes or gulab jamun would allow me to share my side of the story, and can help open them up to new cultures. With the Residential College system, this not just becomes easier, but almost inevitable. Each residential college has its own traditions and culture (such as McMurtry’s association with bananas or Duncan’s Monday Night Lights), which add a unique aspect to their respective residents’ identities, creating an intersectional identity that enriches everyone’s experience. I can use my own background and understanding of identities to help broaden the perspectives of the others in my residential college, on top of letting other people teach me their traditions and perspectives. Everyone benefits from exposure to new ideas and perspectives, and I think that not only can I provide some of these ideas and perspectives, but I can also benefit from others. — — —

Communicate what matters to you. How do you do that? Consider connecting each contribution to a particular value (e.g., creativity, collaboration, social justice). Here’s a list of values you can use to generate some ideas or to connect with your 7-10 contributions. Reading back over this essay. Which values can you spot? We see a ton—family, community, love, empathy, curiosity, communication, and meaningful relationships, just to name a few.

Cover experiences or topics you haven’t shared yet. Think of your college application as a buffet table or sorts—from the carved roast beef (your obsession with computer coding, say) to the potato soufflé (that internship with Bloomberg or the LEED architectural firm) to the caramelized Brussel sprouts (your role as captain of the soccer team or second-chair violin) and assorted cheese (your finesse at chess or all the mountains you’ve hiked) and the chocolate mousse (that quirky knife-throwing hobby, maybe)—each dish/essay showing a different side (or multiple sides) of you and what makes you family-recipe unique. Think of what dish this essay contributes to the smorgasbord. Even though this prompt seems fairly specific in focusing on your cultural influences and experiences, use it as an opportunity to try to include parts of yourself that you haven’t yet talked about elsewhere in your Rice application. Maybe you haven’t written about your volunteering experience with your temple, or your love of knitting, handed down from your great-grandmother’s Nordic ancestors. Here’s a chance.

Use color and detail to “show” not just “tell.” This is good advice for other pieces you may be writing, since details can help breathe life into a piece of writing. For example, notice how this student didn’t just talk about sharing “my side of the story” over meals, but over “latkes or gulab jamun.” This is another good example of using color to tell the story: “In addition, the Indian side of my family exposes me to a wide range of Indian culture, from the artwork in my grandparents house, to the stories from when my grandfather moved to America for school.”

Make sure to bring it back to Rice and how you’ll contribute to the campus community. This is a key part of the prompt, the part that allows the Rice admission team to envision you on campus in a meaningful way. For this student, that means sharing how connecting with others over a shared “intersectional identity” becomes easier, thanks to signature traditions like the McMurtry hall’s obsession with bananas or Duncan’s Monday Night Lights.

Here’s another example for this prompt:

Rice University Essay Example 7:

“I'd like a veggie bowl please. And would you mind changing your gloves?” That got me several weird looks. Some from customers around me, others from Chipotle employees across the counter. But I was used to it. Over the years of asking for a change of gloves or to cut with a clean knife, the weird looks have become normal. My strict vegetarian diet follows the principles of Jainism that run in my family, a direct result of my Indian-American identity. From a young age, I’ve been questioned for wearing a sacred rakhi thread on my wrist, or bringing in homemade Indian vegetarian food for lunch. The Indian side of me is omnipresent. In explaining these differences, I’ve sometimes felt as though being different has made me less than those who were “normal.” This obviously isn’t true, but it’s taken me a while to realize that. Meeting friends who embrace and value my ethnicity has helped me understand that what makes me different actually makes me a more complete person. Like in language classes, where I’ve been able to use my struggles to communicate effectively in a second language while visiting family in India to bolster my ability to communicate in Spanish during class. As a result of my experiences as an Indian-American, I’ve been committed to advancing inclusion in society. In addition to taking small, personal actions, I’ve participated in numerous activities that seek to understand and help alleviate social injustices, like Junior Leadership Dayton (JLD). Through JLD, I witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of the opioid epidemic in a city with one of the highest rates of overdoses in the nation, and the struggles associated with rehabilitation. Talking to people in homeless shelters whose daily struggles exceeded what I had experienced in a lifetime, and helping underprivileged kids who grew up deprived of access to an education in the arts, I began to understand the magnitude of the issues that plague our society. I seek to include those around me regardless of their background, welcoming new freshmen in Science Olympiad, for example, or talking to the violist who might have otherwise sat by himself during rehearsal breaks. My experiences with those who have accepted me for who I am have led to my desire to promote an acceptance of others, something I’ll bring to Rice’s campus. — — —

how to write Rice Supplemental Essay Prompts #4 & #5: Rice Architecture

It’s fair to say that Rice is super interested in your reasons for applying to its architecture program, and why you think you’re the right fit — and it’s giving you ample space to explain. The key is to share a diverse set of reasons and experiences, while avoiding too much repetition.

“Yeah, right,” you say? “How do I write about different things, when both prompts seem to be asking me about the same thing—my interest in studying architecture?”

We get it. It does seem a little redundant, but it doesn’t have to be. It may help to approach each prompt this way:

#4 Architecture Essay Prompt: Why are you determined to study architecture? Could you please elaborate on your past experiences and how they have motivated you to apply to Rice University and the School of Architecture in particular? (250 words max)

Think of this as your classic “Why Major” prompt, in the way that Prompt 1 wasn’t for you. In that prompt, you got to focus on those other academic areas that appeal to you at Rice. This time, it’s all about the architectural program. See Prompt 1 tips for more guidance.

A key part of this prompt is to “elaborate on your past experiences” and connect them to why you chose to apply to Rice in general and the architecture program specifically. How do you do that? Consider using a montage structure, which means making a list of 3-5 architecture-related experiences you’ve had and the influence each had in motivating you to pick Rice. For example—just spitballing here—maybe that community college course, The Politics of Architecture and How They Shaped Europe, made you see the friezes of the Parthenon and the Fachwerkhäusers of Germany in a whole new light, and now you’re eager to take Rice’s The Metropolis course to learn how the architect of today influences urban design as a public figure. Find a handful of examples like that, weaving your experiences and Rice’s offerings together, and you’ve got yourself an essay.

If you have multiple academic reasons for “why architecture,” from classes to teachers who inspired you to school-based projects, use them in this essay, since the next one asks about non-academic influences. If you don’t have those examples, no sweat. We have some recommendations for other outside-the-classroom examples that may prompt some ideas—read those in the tips for Prompt 5 below.

#5 Architecture Essay Prompt: Please expand on relevant experiences and motivations outside of your academic trajectory that have inspired you to study architecture, focusing on aspects that are not accommodated by other prompts in the application. (250 words max)

Think of this one as your “Okay, what else you got?” essay—a Rice School of Architecture additional information section, if you will. Anything else that comes to mind that inspired you to want to be an architect that you haven’t already covered? This is the place to talk about it.

In this one, though, you don’t have to connect your experiences back to Rice. You’ve got that covered in Prompt 4.

Note that this one specifically asks about details and examples “outside of your academic trajectory.” So leave the classroom, coursework and school-related projects to Prompt 4. So what goes here in response to Prompt 5? Maybe those visits to Monticello in Virginia or The Getty in LA made a mark, or your favorite part of a trip is to explore area churches, just to admire the spires and domes and intricate detail of the icons and columns. Anything to show why architecture is your thing.

Still stumped? Feel like you’ve covered all the architecture you can think of? Pull back the lens a bit and think about what architecture means to you in the larger sense—not just buildings and urban landscapes, but collaborative spaces or the chance to build a sense of community you’ve long enjoyed in your own town. Or maybe one of your parents is handy around the house, and the extra room you helped them carpet or the fence you helped them build inspired in you an appreciation for the creativity and precision that go into even the small details of a structure.

Now comes the fun part of the Rice application. No more essays to outline. No more words to fuss over. No more grammar checks. Just one two-dimensional, uploadable image that, in Rice’s words, “shares something about yourself, your interests or what is meaningful to you.”

Don’t have any idea what to do here? Here’s what not to do: Don’t fret over it. Rice’s admission page points out that this image is not used in the evaluation process. It’s just another chance to get to know what matters to you, a chance to “put your stamp on the application about who you are aside from what you have achieved.” The only real advice Rice offers is to make sure the image can stand alone without explanation.

The possibilities really could run the gamut: a photo of you and your pet, your childhood home, a scene from a favorite trip, a creation you built or drew, your bookcase—even a photo from your phone that speaks to you, and about you. Or it could be something totally different. Realize that this doesn’t have to be an image you took yourself. It could be a Monet, the Rover’s view of Mars—even a meme.

Want advice on dozens of other supplemental essays? Click here

University of Wisconsin Madison - College Essay Guy Blog Post Contributor - Luci

Special thanks to Nicole for contributing to this post.

Nicole learned how to tell other people’s stories after a 30+-year career as a newspaper reporter, covering both the mundane and the unforgettable, from serial killer Duane Owen’s retrial, to the Bush/Gore nail-biter, to the homeless family of four who found refuge in a storage unit. Her ideal day is spent playing Cribbage with her dad, beating her husband at RummiKub and planning the next girls trip with her teenage daughters.

Top values: Creativity | Growth | Meaningful Work

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How to Respond to the 2022-2023 Rice Supplemental Essay Prompts

If you are applying to Rice University, do not underestimate the importance of its supplemental essays. This portion of the application gives you a chance to make a more personal impression. The three required prompts touch on how your interests and identity can be explored at Rice. Given that these are rather common questions, it is especially important to have stand-out answers.

We will walk you through how to craft compelling, differentiated responses for each prompt. Our “questions to consider” help you identify the best stories from your own experiences to share. Let’s dive in!

Don’t miss: How to write an essay about yourself

“ Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected. (150 words ) ”

The first thing to notice with this prompt is the 150 word limit. This signals you must be concise; however, it does not mean there is no room to express your personality! The key to succeeding with a tight word count is picking one thing and carrying it throughout your response. This question gets to the core of why you chose your particular school or major. Really consider what excites you intellectually! Once you’ve identified an academic passion, think back. What first inspired this curiosity? Do you have family members in a certain field you look up to? Did you discover a knack for a subject at an early age?

You could elevate your answer by then tracing the ways you’ve channeled that interest. Perhaps you participated in a club during high school that allowed you to explore the topic in a new way. Finally, tie things up with how you can further your studies at Rice. Maintaining a cohesive storyline shows that you are intentional and sincere. Also keep in mind that the admissions team is likely not expecting a deep dive on specific programs and course offerings. With this short of a response, your biggest aim is conveying enthusiasm for your academic plans.

Questions to consider:

Also see: How to write a 250 word essay

“ Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? (150 words) ”

Opening with “based upon your exploration of Rice University” should serve as an alarm bell to do your homework. Admissions assumes that you have researched Rice and all it brings to the table. Do an in-depth browse of Rice’s website, social media, and reports like its strategic plan. Make notes on everything that intrigues you or seems unique. With another short word limit, do not try to address every reason you find Rise desirable. Instead, think about what makes Rice truly distinct. “The Rice experience” can encompass any aspect of campus life, so don’t feel like there is only one right answer. Narrow down to a few specific university offerings that align with a personal goal of yours. Like the first prompt, examples that center around a key interest make your response seem thoughtful and genuine.

Questions to consider:

Also see: How to write a 500 word essay

“In keeping with Rice’s long-standing tradition (known as “The Box”), please share an image of something that appeals to you .”

This prompt throws you a curveball because it is so unconventional. Instead of using words to showcase you who are, the photo you select gets to do the talking. We understand that this question can cause many students stress. However, unless you submit something inappropriate, the admissions team says it should not harm anyone’s overall evaluation; rather, it should add more color to the stories you have shared throughout your application.

Choose an image that supports your other responses about who you are and what you stand for. For example, you may have written about studying art history and discussed experiences while traveling. Submitting a painting from a museum in Spain that inspired you would be a great response!

Don’t miss: What looks good on college applications?

Program-specific prompts

The Rice supplemental essays will vary if you are applying to Rice’s School of Architecture or the Rice/Baylor Medical Scholars Program. The two tracks’ prompts vary, but they mostly touch on why that specific field inspires you. One of the medical questions asks about obstacles you’ve faced.

You might notice these share some overlap with topics you could discuss in the three general written prompts. It is always important to map out your answers to each question before working on any one. Although you should keep your key themes of interests consistent, you should not be repeating anecdotes.

Final thoughts

The Rice supplemental essays share similarities with many college’s prompts. Why you selected a certain major, what perspectives you offer, and why this is your ideal school should not be too scary! Because two of the prompts are so short, it is essential to find strong examples to send your message. You may find it helpful to get all your thoughts down, then cut out the fluff later. With our tips, you should be well on your way to acing these responses. Best of luck!

Also see: How to respond to the Common App essay prompts

Once you’ve sent off your application, take advantage of the time before you hear back. Our free scholarship search tool can help you fund your education by matching you with vetted and personalized opportunities. Additionally, make sure that you’re applying to a diverse coalition of colleges – check out our guides for how many schools to apply to , and how to find a financial safety school .

Once you hear back from your schools, you’ll have some big choices to make. Check out our guides to interpreting your financial aid award letter , and appealing it if it does not provide enough money. If you’ll be taking out loans, we can also help you choose the best loans for your situation . Good luck on your Rice supplemental essays and beyond!

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The Admissions Strategist

“ the box ” and writing the supplemental essays for rice: a superb guide.

Rice University, located in Houston, Texas has an acceptance rate of 14% and is a private research university that regularly contributes to advancements in technology and science.

These contributions include work with artificial hearts and nanotechnology.

Rice faculty and alumni have been awarded Nobel and Pulitzer Prizes, Academy Awards, National Medals of Science, and more.

The university’s website describes itself as “a community of curious thinkers, passionate dreamers and energetic doers who believe that improving the world demands more than bold thought and brave action. It takes unconventional wisdom.” Oh, and it’s also ranked number one for the happiest students!

It might sound like the odds aren’t in your favor, but there’s plenty you can do to increase your chances of acceptance, including writing some standout essays.

Not sure how to write essays that can set you apart from the crowd ?

We’re here to help! In this article, we’ll provide information and tips to help you write your way to an acceptance letter from Rice University.

What Are the Rice University Essays?

Rice accepts both the Common Application and the Coalition Application, with no preference between the two. No matter which application you choose, you’ll also need to complete the Rice Writing Supplement.

The supplement consists of two short responses and one longer essay (or two shorter essays for applicants to the School of Architecture).

The short response questions are:

Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above. (150 word limit) Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? (150 word limit)

The longer essay question asks:

Rice is lauded for creating a collaborative atmosphere that enhances the quality of life for all members of our campus community. The Residential College System is heavily influenced by the unique life experiences and cultural traditions each student brings. What personal perspectives would you contribute to life at Rice? (500 word limit)

If you’re applying to the School of Architecture, you won’t answer the question above. Instead, you’ll answer the following two short answer questions, along with the first two short-answer questions:

Why are you determined to study architecture? Could you please elaborate on your past experiences and how they have motivated you to apply to Rice University and the School of Architecture in particular? (250 word limit) Please expand on relevant experiences and motivations outside of your academic trajectory that have inspired you to study architecture, focusing on aspects that are not accommodated by other prompts in the application. (250 word limit)

Rice also asks you to “submit an image of something that appeals to you,” a long-standing tradition known as “the Box.”

General Tips for the Rice Supplemental Essays

Rice University website explains, “We want a diverse, exciting student body, consisting of the best and brightest from across the country and around the globe. If you are excited by the opportunities and experiences we offer, we encourage you to apply to Rice.”

In reviewing applications, the university considers “the entirety of an applicant’s academic prowess , creativity, motivation, artistic talent, leadership potential and life experiences.”

Your GPA, SAT scores, and extracurricular experiences won’t necessarily convey the qualities mentioned here.

Your essays are your opportunity to demonstrate that you’re the type of student Rice is looking for: someone bright, curious, eager, creative, and motivated. Someone who has leadership qualities and wants to take advantage of the many opportunities available at Rice.

In order to effectively captivate your audience (Rice admissions officers), we recommend that each essay is:

Now, let’s take a closer look at each of the questions in the Rice Writing Supplement.

Brainstorming Activity for the Rice Essays

To write a strong response to this fairly standard question, try to focus on the extracurricular activity or work experience that you find most significant and meaningful.

Don’t select an experience solely because you think it sounds most impressive. Instead, try to come up with one particular anecdote that explains how and why this activity or experience has impacted your life or personal growth.

Use specific details to engage admissions officers in your experience, and reflect on how the experience changed you or influenced your life.

Think about how you’ll continue exploring this interest at Rice University, or how you’ll implement the lessons learned through this experience as a student at Rice.

Always focus on action. What did you do during this activity?

The point of this exercise is to exercise your brainstorming muscles and get you thinking about specific stories from your life. You need clarity of thought for the Rice essays because you don’t have much of a word count to work with.

Clarity equals better writing. This exercise should help you write the essays below.

Connect us to your school's principal!

“why this major” at rice.

Short Answer Question #1: Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above. (150 word limit)

In your application to Rice, you’re required to indicate an interest in one of the university’s six academic schools: architecture, engineering, humanities, music, natural sciences, or social sciences.

Although this decision isn’t binding—you can change schools after being accepted to Rice—the university does specify that they’re expecting a thoughtful answer to this question.

Each academic school is looking for different “strengths and qualities” in applicants, so Rice recommends choosing the school “in which you feel the most confident of your abilities and interests.”

You should also do some research on your school of choice.

For example:

Including details like these in your essay can show that you’re genuinely interested in Rice and would be a good fit for the school.

Just remember, you don’t have much room to work with, so if you’re going to discuss another interest alongside your intended major, keep it short and related to the rest of the essay.

Don’t swerve into something random because you think it’ll catch the attention of the admissions officer – not only will it fail to do that, but you’ll ruin the narrative of this essay.

Last, if you don’t know what you want to do after college, pick a major that relates closely to your passions and initiatives.

Pick something that can be buttressed with supporting details from your life – projects, volunteer opportunities, research assignments.

“Why Rice University” Essay

Short Answer Question #2: Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? (150 word limit)

This is the classic “ Why This College ” essay, only much shorter. This college application essay question aims to determine whether you truly have a profound interest in attending Rice University.

Again, research is key.

Additional helpful tips for this essay include:

You’ll also want to avoid repeating the information mentioned in your response to Short Answer Question #1.

To help you brainstorm, think about the following:

All in all, your essay should be structured something like this:

Keep in mind that the more specific you are, the better. Mention proper nouns. Discuss items not found on other college campuses.

Here’s a good test to determine whether your essay is quality: Copy and paste this essay into another school’s “Why This College” essay. If the essay fits, then it’s too generic. You want an essay that is custom-tailored to Rice.

Contributing to Rice Essay

Unless you’re applying to the School of Architecture, you’ll have 500 words to answer the following question:

You may want to start by brainstorming a list of life experiences and/or cultural traditions that have shaped your personality and identity.

Whatever experience you choose to discuss, follow two major guidelines:

Overall, this is a broad question that can inspire many different approaches. Don’t panic because you think you aren’t “unique” enough.

No other student can offer the same combination of qualities that you have.

Here are some great questions you can ask yourself to find a powerful topic:

Here’s an example outline of this essay:

Try to come up with a meaningful experience that’s central to who you are as an individual, and you’ll write a powerful essay that stands out!

School of Architecture Essays

Instead of writing the longer essay mentioned above, School of Architecture students must respond to two 250-word essay questions.

Architecture Question #1: Why are you determined to study architecture? Could you please elaborate on your past experiences and how they have motivated you to apply to Rice University and the School of Architecture in particular? (250 word limit)

This question is similar to Short Answer Question #1, so be careful not to repeat information you’ve already shared.

Note that while the short answer question asked why you chose architecture over the other schools, this essay is more about your direct relationship with the field of architecture.

Another idea is to think of qualities that are important for architects, such as creativity or attention to detail, and writing about experiences that have helped you develop these characteristics.

Whatever your choice, connect it directly to architecture.

Architecture Question #2: Please expand on relevant experiences and motivations outside of your academic trajectory that have inspired you to study architecture, focusing on aspects that are not accommodated by other prompts in the application. (250 word limit)

As always, don’t strive simply to impress here. Be honest. This is a chance to reveal something unexpected and interesting about yourself.

Brainstorm a list of activities and interests that challenge you or ignite your passion. It’s okay to choose an unconventional topic, but explain why you enjoy it so much and how it has shaped or influenced you.

Remember, for most students, what you enjoy or find challenging should be action-related. You should be perorming the action to practice this activity or pursue this interest. Examples include:

Don’t forget to explain why you love the activity or interest. Does it…

Since this essay is all about what you enjoy in your free time, make sure your tone conveys real enthusiasm. Talk about something that genuinely excites you.

Then, connect it to architecture. Make a simple outline to visualize the link between the activity that you chose and architecture. It should look like this:

This structure will help you focus on your story.

“The Box” is a photoresponse with the following instructions:

In keeping with Rice’s long-standing tradition (known as “The Box”), please share an image of something that appeals to you.

You aren’t allowed to write an accompanying explanation, so try to choose an image that can speak for itself or in some way relates to the information in your application or essays.

Due to its unique nature, this prompt often baffles applicants.

Keep in mind that there’s no “right” answer to this question, and the image you select is extremely unlikely to make or break your application.

Options include:

The key to answering “The Box” is to steer clear of overused responses like a sunset or the Eiffel Tower.

Because there are so many options to choose from (after all, there are millions of interesting images out there), you want to choose something specifically appealing to you. To emphasize, don’t pick a cliche.

Here are some helpful tips:

Don’t overthink it—just be honest! Rice knows that this is an unconventional and challenging prompt.

Conclusion: How to Write the Rice University Essays

In order to apply to Rice, you’ll need to complete three short answer questions, a photo response, and either a 500-word essay or, if you’re applying to the School of Architecture, two 250-word essays.

As you answer these questions, remember to be authentic, enthusiastic, and specific. Do your research when needed, and connect your answers back to your identity, values, and/or interest in Rice.

Following these tips just might help you join the Rice Owls in the fall. Good luck!

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Rice Supplemental Essays 2022-2023

When it comes to applying to the top schools in the country, your application is vitally important. In order to give yourself the best chance of gaining admission, you need to make sure all aspects of your application are top-notch. In this post, we’re going to do a deep dive into how to write Rice supplemental essays and everything you need to keep in mind as you write.

Rice uses the common app, and this means that you will be asked to answer essay questions contained in the common app. But like many top schools, Rice also requires that you complete several short additional essays about your personal or intellectual growth. The Rice supplemental essays 2022-2023 allow applicants a certain amount of freedom when choosing their supplemental essay topics, but we’re going to look at each essay prompt and discuss the best way to respond to each topic.

So, let’s start by looking at each supplemental essay prompt, and then we will discuss how to approach each one individually.

When it comes to responding to the Rice supplemental essays 2022-2023, there are several important factors to keep in mind. The Rice supplemental essays 2022 contain two short essays and one longer essay. There is also a section called the Rice Box which allows you to use an image to better tell your story. The Rice supplemental essays 2022-2023 are as follows

Let’s now explore each essay prompt individually and looks at strategies for crafting your responses.

How to answer Rice supplemental essays?

While there is a Rice supplemental essay word limit, the longer essay affords you 500 words, which should give you enough space to thoroughly answer the prompt. Let’s start with the first short essay.

1. Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected. 150-word limit.

In the course of completing your application to Rice University, you will be asked to select a field of study. While this choice is not binding, it is required for application purposes. This first short essay is fairly straightforward and asks you to reflect on the field of study you have chosen.

Prior to responding to this prompt, it’s a good idea to research your chosen field of study on Rice’s website to learn as much as possible about it. This can comprise part of your answer. You want to be brief yet specific about why you want to study this subject at Rice, specifically.

The second part of your response should focus on what has led you to this field of study. Was it an experience in high school, or perhaps your interest originated from an activity or experience outside the classroom? Either way, make sure to be as specific as possible while still adhering to the Rice supplemental essay word limit.

2. Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? 150-word limit.

This prompt may sound similar to the first prompt, but it’s actually broader in scope. You are still bound by a 150-word limit, so make sure to be as concise as possible. When responding to this prompt, think about the research you have done regarding the Rice experience. Consider how attending Rice would be different from the other schools to which you are applying. Also, consider what drew you to Rice in the first place.

There’s a good chance that part of the reason you’ve chosen Rice is its reputation for academic excellence in a number of different fields. But there is so much more to the college experience than just classes. This prompt is asking you to think about the other aspects of Rice that you find appealing. Is it the campus itself? Is it the wide variety of activities offered by the school? The goal is to be specific about what excites you about attending Rice. How will attending Rice allow you to pursue your passions?

3. Rice is lauded for creating a collaborative atmosphere that enhances the quality of life for all members of our campus community. The Residential College System and undergraduate life are heavily influenced by the unique life experiences and cultural tradition each student brings. What life perspectives would you contribute to the Rice community? 500-word limit.

This prompt asks you to reflect on yourself and what you have to offer. The prompt informs you that Rice’s excellence is partly dependent on the diverse perspectives of its student body. So, what are the experiences you have had that have shaped your perspective on life?

When you look at where you come from, what are the things that you would want to share with students who come from different backgrounds? Rice University tries to create a melting pot where students with diverse backgrounds and experiences can have the opportunity to share their world with others.

When you approach this prompt, it’s best to start brainstorming about the world you come from. Then start to narrow down that world to some specific elements that you can share. You have 500 words to respond to this prompt, so you have room to get into details. Once you’ve come up with a list of elements you would want to bring to the Rice community, write about what makes these things so important to you, and why you feel that sharing these things will be valuable.

What is the Rice Box?

From Rice: One of Rice’s long-standing traditions is “The Box,” a question on our application where we ask all of our applicants to share an image of something that appeals to them. The Box gives you the opportunity to present us with an image that shares something about yourself, your interests, or what is meaningful to you. This image is not used for evaluative purposes in the application but allows you to put your stamp on the application about who you are aside from what you have achieved. Be sure to choose an image that speaks for itself and does not need an explanation.

In this final section of the Rice supplemental essays 2022-2023, applicants are simply asked to share a two-dimensional image. You are not required or expected to write anything about the image itself, but the image should convey something significant without needing for any explanation.

This can be a difficult task because you are allowed to share basically any image, but make sure the image is one that has a special meaning for you. It might be a photograph that has a unique significance, or it could be a family photo that holds value for you.

At AdmissionSight, our goal is to help you with every step of the college admissions process. The Rice supplemental essays 2022 can seem daunting at first, but our experience and expertise will help you navigate the entire process with confidence. Hopefully, this guide to the Rice supplemental essays 2022-2023 has been helpful, but if you want more information about how AdmissionSight can help you realize your dreams, set up your free consultation today.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 5 tips for writing the perfect rice essay supplement.

College Essays

Rice is one of the top 20 universities in the nation , and to get in, you need more than just awesome grades and test scores—you need a compelling Rice essay. The Rice application requires several essays depending on the school you're applying to at the university. So what should you write about for each Rice essay to make your application as strong as it can be?

We'll explain what the Rice supplement is and go over the Rice University essay prompts you'll see on your application. After, we'll give you expert tips on how to answer each essay prompt so you'll have an even better shot at getting accepted to this prestigious university!

Feature Image: faungg's photos /Flickr

What Is the Rice Supplement?

Like many colleges, Rice has a supplement that requires applicants to submit additional info to the school—that is, info not included in the Common Application or Coalition Application .

The Rice writing supplement consists of several essay and short answer prompts, which most undergraduate applicants (though not all—we'll explain this in more detail shortly) must answer for their applications. These supplementary questions ask about applicants' choice of academic field, reasons for applying to Rice, and so on.

In addition, as part of the Rice supplement, all applicants must upload an image that depicts something that appeals to them or is important to them. This requirement, called "The Box," isn't an essay, but it plays just as important a role in the application process. So choose a picture wisely!

Once you've answered all these questions and uploaded an image, you can submit your Rice supplement along with the rest of your application.

What exactly are the Rice University essay prompts you need to answer? Let's take a look.

What Are the Rice University Essay Prompts?

There are six Rice University essay prompts in total; however, feel free to relax a little since you won't need to respond to all these prompts on your application. This is because the Rice University essay prompts you must answer will vary depending on the school you're applying to at Rice.

Below are all the current Rice University essay prompts, organized by what types of applicants are required to answer which ones.

All Applicants

There are three essays that all applicants must submit to Rice.

The first of these is a personal essay that responds to one of the essay prompts provided by either the Common App or Coalition App (depending on which system you're using). This essay should be about 500-550 words long and must be no longer than 650 words.

Both the Common App and Coalition App offer several essay prompts from which you can choose. We won't be listing those prompts here, but you can find them in our guides to the Common App and Coalition App essay prompts .

In addition to the Common App/Coalition App personal essay, all applicants must submit two short answers as part of the Rice supplement. Your answers to these questions will be much shorter than your personal essay, at just 150 words max per response.

Here are the two short-answer prompts:

Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above.

Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you?

School of Architecture Applicants ONLY

Applicants to the Rice School of Architecture must submit all of the above PLUS two more short answers (again, these are part of the Rice supplement). Your answer to each question must be no longer than 250 words, giving you a little more space to work with compared with the two short-answer questions above.

Here are the current Rice University essay prompts for School of Architecture applicants:

Applicants to All Other Schools (Besides Architecture)

Applicants to all other schools (besides the School of Architecture) must submit a personal essay instead of the two architecture short answers. Like all the prompts listed above, this prompt is part of the Rice supplement.

For this essay, you can write up to 500 words. Compared with the other Rice University essay prompts, this one clearly gives you way more space to write.

Here is the prompt for this longer Rice essay:

All Rice University Essay Prompts, Analyzed

Now that we've seen all the Rice University essay prompts, let's analyze them one at a time to see how you can answer them effectively.

Rice Short Answer 1 (All Applicants)

This first short answer wants you to summarize your (main) intended field of study as well as any other fields you're interested in studying at Rice. It's a deceptively simple prompt that's about a lot more than just what you plan to study at Rice.

The crux of this essay isn't just summarizing your major—it's explaining why you've chosen this field and why Rice specifically will be a good fit for your goals and interests.

Here are the questions this prompt is really asking you to answer:

As you write your response, try to focus on specifics. Don't just say you've always had an interest in writing stories. What specifically drove you to declare a major in English? For instance, you could discuss your deep fascination with Shakespeare, specifically with Macbeth , and how you're excited about Rice's array of Shakespeare-centered classes .

If you have enough space (remember that your answer can only be 150 words max), you could also (or instead) elaborate on what you plan to do with your intended major after college and how Rice will help you achieve this goal. If you're hoping to study music, for example, you could write about how you believe Rice's Navigating Music Careers portal and accomplished music faculty will help prepare you for establishing a successful career in music.

If you're still undecided about what you want to major in, this is a great time to explain what kinds of fields you're considering studying and why they intrigue you. Maybe you recently developed an interest in architecture after seeing the famous Gateway Arch in St. Louis, and are now thinking of taking some architecture classes at Rice.

Whatever the case, be clear about what you (might) want to study and why.

Rice Short Answer 2 (All Applicants)

Unlike the prompt above, this prompt is not limited to academics (though you are welcome to talk about those here as well, as long as you don't repeat anything you wrote for your other short answer). Basically, Rice just wants to know this: why Rice?

This prompt is actually a variation of the "why this college" essay , which many colleges ask for in their applications. Specifically, this prompt is asking you to focus on why Rice is an ideal fit for you .

Here are some examples of topics you could write about:

Remember to be specific —don't just say you're interested in Rice because it's known for quality research or because it's ranked highly on many "best colleges" lists. What specific features does Rice have that made you apply?

If you're not sure what to write about for this Rice essay, I recommend doing some research on Rice. Start by visiting the official Rice website to see what the school offers in terms of academics, extracurricular activities, professional opportunities, internships, study abroad programs, etc. You can read more about anything that sticks out to you or resonates with your interests.

You can also refer to community-based websites, such as College Confidential and Reddit , to see what current students have to say about life at Rice.

Rice Short Answer 3 (Architecture Applicants ONLY)

Why are you determined to study architecture? Could you please elaborate on your past experiences and how they have motivated you to apply to Rice University and the School of Architecture in particular?

This prompt is similar to Short Answer 1 in that it's asking you to elaborate on your chosen major (in this case, architecture) and why you're interested in it. For this essay, however, you don't need to focus on architecture as a major as much as you do on architecture as a passion.

In other words, this is your chance to tell the story of how you developed a deep interest in architecture and what architecture means to you.

For this Rice essay, and as the prompt says, you can focus on aspirations (what goals do you have and how does architecture fulfill these?), experiences (did a particular incident make you develop an interest in architecture?), and relationships (who, if anyone, inspired you to study the field?).

Here are some potential topics you could write about:

In your essay, use specific details and avoid clichéd openings, such as "I knew I wanted to study architecture when …" The admissions committee at Rice has more than likely heard these types of overly broad statements hundreds, if not thousands, of times, so avoid them!

Rice Short Answer 4 (Architecture Applicants ONLY)

This is an interesting essay prompt since it's so much broader than the other one you have to do as an architecture applicant to Rice. The purpose of this prompt is to reveal to Rice what types of activities you're interested or engaged in (outside of architecture), and what role they play in your life.

Think about what you do in your spare time, what you're passionate about, and possibly what you are obligated to do (such as chores or duties at work). Are there any activities you do that you find fun but also intellectually or physically challenging? Are you particularly invested in an activity?

Don't be afraid to get really creative and honest here —you're allowed to write about an activity that's unconventional, eccentric, "boring," or even plain goofy. Just make sure you're also giving the admissions committee deeper insight into something about you, such as how you flourish when competing against your own times in cross country races or how you calm yourself down with a big bowl of Froot Loops every evening. Ultimately, you want to highlight a personal strength.

As a final tip for this Rice essay, don't feel obligated to choose an "impressive" topic. Instead, use this fun and open-ended essay prompt as a chance to demonstrate your personal strengths and passions in a highly personal, creative way.

Rice Essay (All Applicants EXCEPT Architecture)

Aside from the Common App/Coalition App personal essay, this is the longest Rice essay you'll write for your application (unless you're an architecture applicant—in that case, you don't have to write this essay!).

Once again, you have a limit of 500 words, which should give you plenty of space to delve into the details of yourself and what you'll contribute to the community at Rice.

So what is this prompt asking you to do exactly? This prompt is essentially a diversity essay prompt in that it's asking what makes you different from other applicants and what qualities you can bring to Rice.

Note the significance of the word "unique" in the prompt here—this is the crux of what you should write about in your essay. What specific, unique qualities do you have that you think will make a positive contribution to the Rice community?

Here are some sample topics you could write about for this Rice essay:

Make sure to show, not tell. You've got plenty of room to be able to tell a compelling story, so try not to rely on dull descriptions, clichés, and general, all-encompassing statements. Rather, fill your story with personality, voice, images, and realism. Using a variety of literary devices can add lots of color to your writing and will help your essay stand out.

In addition, don't repeat anything you've already written in your Common App/Coalition App essay. The essays required for both application systems are similar to the Rice essay above in that they're all longer and more personal. Write about something different for each so you don't sound as though there's just one single thing that defines you.

Real Rice Essay Example + Analysis

Though knowing what kinds of topics you can write about for each Rice essay is definitely helpful, it's even better to be able to see what an actual successful Rice essay looks like. Below, we show you a real Rice essay example that was written by an admitted student.

The following essay was written in response to a prompt similar to the current Rice essay prompt for Short Answer 2 above. (In other words, it's essentially a "Why Rice?" prompt.)

Note: Since this essay is a little older and the Rice essay topics change every few years, the prompt and word length for this essay differ slightly from the current guidelines. For this essay, the word limit was 250 words, whereas the current limit is 150 words.

Here is the essay:

"We are going to visit Rice today," my mom leaned back in her front row seat and said to me.

Wait, is that a restaurant specializing in all kinds of rice dishes? Like fried rice, rice soup, and rice balls? My brain went into a frenzy.

All other questions flooding my thoughts dissipated, however, when my eyes lay on Rice's beautiful Byzantine-style buildings with its magnificent archways and its soft sand-pink brick walls. While just outside its surroundings the thriving city life of Houston continues, Rice kept its sacred ground intimate with its relatively small campus and peaceful with its large spreads of greenery and shades. It's perfect! said my right brain, falling in love at first sight with the campus. My left brain, however, chastised the emotional side of me with Don't judge a book by its cover. You can't just choose your true love like that!

Exasperated by my left brain, I attended an information seminar. Phrases like "Passport to Houston," "Best Quality of Student Life," "Oshman Engineering Design Kitchen," and "more than 40 interdisciplinary centers" flashed by my eyes. Almost unlimited access to Houston's transportation and hangout spots? A research facility where I can group with students of all fields and work on solving real-world problems? Friendly research faculty who might allow me to continue my interdisciplinary research in psychology and computer science? My left brain finally gave in. Alright, alright. Let's go make Rice into not just a staple for food, but also education, then.

What Makes This Rice Essay Work?

It's got a lot of personality. The italicized parts, which symbolize the applicant's thoughts, give us a highly personal and intriguing look into their reactions to their first visit to Rice. In addition, the humorous bits (such as when the university's name is compared to the actual rice food) add a fun and creative touch.

It oozes passion. While this applicant might occasionally go a little overboard in how they describe how amazing Rice is, one thing is clear: they're extremely interested in attending Rice and making the most of their interdisciplinary interests here.

How Could This Rice Essay Be Even Better?

It could cut out the clichés. The saying "Don't judge a book by its cover" has been done to death and doesn't add any memorable insight into the applicant. This essay would be better if the applicant had changed this phrase or simply cut it out completely. Moreover, although the concept of Rice as a food is funny, this applicant likely isn't the first person to have made a joke about this.

It could be more specific. Although there's clearly a lot of passion in this Rice essay, it lacks detail in areas where we could've learned a lot more about the applicant. For example, what kinds of research does this person want to conduct at Rice? And what "real-world problems" do they want to solve?

How to Write a Great Rice Essay: 5 Key Tips

Before you go off writing your Rice essay, here are some final tips to keep in mind.

#1: Use Specific Details

I've said this before and I'll say it again: be specific in your essays. Rice doesn't just want to know that you're good at softball—it wants to know why this sport is important to you, what kind of role it plays in your life, and how it makes you feel.

If you're describing a specific person in one of your essays, use concrete details to show the admissions committee who this person really is. Does she have an endearing gap in her teeth when she smiles? What does his voice sound like?

Details like these will allow your readers to more readily feel the personality and passion in your writing, making it easier to relate to you on a deeper level. They'll also help you and your essays stand out from the sea of applicants, which is always a plus!

#2: Channel Your Inner Voice

Personal essays are all about showcasing your personality and a side of yourself that's not made clear in the more quantitative (i.e., grades and test scores) parts of your application.

Therefore, with each Rice essay, make sure you're channeling your inner voice. Does the essay sound as though you wrote it and not someone else did? Are you writing about what you really want to and not what you think the Rice admissions committee wants to read?

For example, if you're naturally a humorous person, feel free to throw in a joke or two. If you're the poetic type, you could add in some lines of poetry you've written (if relevant to your essay topic) or sprinkle in some flowery metaphors.

The basic tip here is to write in whatever way comes most natural to you.

That being said, there are a few things you should always avoid in your college essays:

#3: Give Yourself Plenty of Time

Even though most of the essays on the Rice supplement aren't that long, you still have a lot to write for just one school, so these essays will likely take up a lot of your free time. Be sure to start your essays (for all the colleges you're applying to—not just Rice) ahead of time, ideally at least a few months before your college application deadlines .

#4: Avoid Repeating Yourself

Many of the Rice University essay prompts touch on similar topics, such as why you want to attend Rice, why you want to study a certain field, and what makes you unique.

As you answer the prompts, try to ensure there isn't too much overlap between the content of your essays.

It's OK if there's a little bit of repetition. For example, it'd be hard not to talk about your interest in architecture as you answer Short Answer 1 (What do you want to major in?) and Short Answer 3 (Why architecture?).

That said, your primary goal should be to try to focus on different main points for each of your essays. This way, Rice will get a more well-rounded (versus one-sided) picture of who you are.

#5: Don't Forget to Proofread!

For each Rice essay, take a lot of time to edit and proofread it.

After you write a rough draft, put the essay away for a few days. Once some time has passed, take your essay out again and reread it. Fix any obvious errors, such as typos and misspellings, and mark any areas that are awkward, unclear, or irrelevant.

Do this process a few times until you have a fairly clean draft. Then, give your essay to someone else to read; this could be a parent, teacher, older sibling, tutor, etc. Ask this person for feedback and use their advice to further tweak your essay until you eventually have a quality final draft.

As with any essay, be sure to do one final proofread (and get someone else to look it over, too!) right before you submit it to a college.

What's Next?

Interested in applying to other highly prestigious schools besides Rice? Then take a look at our guides to how to write essays for Northwestern , Harvard , and Stanford .

Writing college admissions essays can be tricky. Check out our expert guides to learn how you can write a great Common Application essay and Coalition Application essay .

For more tips on how to get into Rice, including what SAT/ACT score you'll need, check out our Rice University admissions page .

Want to write the perfect college application essay? Get professional help from PrepScholar.

Your dedicated PrepScholar Admissions counselor will craft your perfect college essay, from the ground up. We'll learn your background and interests, brainstorm essay topics, and walk you through the essay drafting process, step-by-step. At the end, you'll have a unique essay that you'll proudly submit to your top choice colleges.

Don't leave your college application to chance. Find out more about PrepScholar Admissions now :

Hannah received her MA in Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California. From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel.

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How to Respond to Every Prompt in the Rice Supplement | 2022-2023

The Rice supplement includes a 500-word essay, two shorter Rice University essays, and one quirky prompt about an image that is meaningful to you. This guide will help you develop strong responses for every prompt in the Rice supplement.

First, let’s look at the essays.

Personal Perspectives:

Rice is lauded for creating a collaborative atmosphere that enhances the quality of life for all members of our campus community. The Residential College System is heavily influenced by the unique life experiences and cultural traditions each student brings. What personal perspectives would you contribute to life at Rice? (500 word limit)

(not required for Architecture majors. Separate supplement is given for that major)

In this essay, you’ll need to draw a connection between your past experiences and your future as a member of the Rice community.

What makes you unique, and how will you share it with other people at Rice?

Step One: Choose your perspective

Step Two: Connect Your Topic to Rice

Step three: Your Core Message

Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? (150 word limit)

Our “ Why This School ” essay guide will help you write a great 150-word response to this Rice supplement prompt.

Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above. (150 word limit)

This guide will help you write a strong 150-word “Why Major” essay for your Rice University application.

You’ll also need to answer this unusual prompt about an image that is important to you.

In keeping with Rice's long-standing tradition (known as "The Box"), please share an image of something that appeals to you. See the Help Section for more information.

You won’t be able to include a written explanation of your image, so focus on choosing an image that will tell your admissions reader something important about you without any further context.

For example, you could upload:

Weak Rough Draft

Brad schiller.

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How to Respond to the 2022-2023 Rice Supplemental Essay Prompts
How to Write the Rice University Supplemental Essays: Examples + Guide 2022/2023
Definition Essay: Rice application essays
45+ Rice University Essay Examples Gif
Rice University Essay Guide 2020-2021
Download Rice Supplemental Essay Examples Pics

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COMMENTS

What Is Rice Starch?
Rice starch is a fine-grained, tasteless white powder obtained by processing raw rice. It is inexpensive, hypoallergenic and non-toxic. Rice starch is an important ingredient in body care products because it has no aroma.
How Many Calories Does Rice Have?
Rice comes in several varieties, each with a different calorie count; however, a 1-cup serving of basic cooked white rice has 169 calories according to Calorie King. A 1-cup serving of long grain brown rice has 216 calories.
What Is a “who Am I” Essay?
A “who am I” essay is a simple type of open-ended introductory essay. It is used in certain schools, workplaces and around the world to help members of a group introduce themselves through their writing. They are generally about a page long...
Rice University 2022-23 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide
Pour all of your academic focus into your answer to this question. What do you love about your chosen major? If you're interested in the Visual and Dramatic
How to Write the Rice University Essays 2022-2023
This essay is an ideal place to mention any informal experiences you may have had, or any self-motivated educational endeavors. Some examples
2022-23 Rice University Supplemental Essays
1) Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above. (150 word limit). ... Share an authentic story here of why you
First Year Domestic Applicants
Coalition Powered by Scoir or the Common Application and Rice writing supplement · $75 nonrefundable application fee (must be paid online) · Official high school
Rice University Supplemental Essays 2022-2023
There are three school-specific Rice supplemental essays and an image contribution in the Rice application. The first two Rice supplemental essays each have a
How to Write the Rice University Supplemental Essays: Examples +
how to write Rice Supplemental Essay Prompt #1 · (Quickly) hook the reader. The first line performs a few functions here. · Show the development
How to Respond to the 2022-2023 Rice Supplemental Essay Prompts
Questions to consider: · Have you ever received recognition for your excellence in a particular subject? · What need in the world do you want to
“The Box” and Writing the Supplemental Essays for Rice
Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? (150 word limit). The longer essay question asks: Rice is
Rice Supplemental Essays 2022-2023
The Rice supplemental essays 2022-2023 allow applicants a certain amount of freedom when choosing their supplemental essay topics, but we're going to look
5 Tips for Writing the Perfect Rice Essay Supplement
For this Rice essay, and as the prompt says, you can focus on aspirations (what goals do you have and how does architecture fulfill these?)
How to Respond to Every Prompt in the Rice Supplement
The Rice supplement includes a 500-word essay, two shorter Rice University essays, and one quirky prompt about an image that is meaningful to you.