vassar supplemental essays 2023

Vassar College 2022-23 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Vassar college 2022-23 application essay question explanations.

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Community , Diversity , Additional Info

Please select and respond to one of the following prompts in 300 words or less.

1. at vassar, we aim to foster an inclusive community through our philosophy of engaged pluralism. engaged pluralism is rooted in “the conviction that collaborating across differences is necessary for social transformation and critical for the well-being of any community and its members.” in short, we believe it’s our differences that make us stronger. tell us a little bit about what makes you unique and what you hope to add to our community. .

Odds are that this isn’t the first “diversity” essay prompt you’ve come across this year. If it is, however, please read on. Vassar wants to accept students from a range of backgrounds who will contribute to inclusivity and diversity on campus, so tell admissions about what makes you you and how you will be a meaningful addition to the Vassar student body. Think about times when people have been intrigued by or curious about your identity, upbringing, or background. Maybe you were raised practicing Buddhism and you hope to spread some wisdom and mindfulness on campus next year. Perhaps you were raised in a wildlife sanctuary and have a very special relationship to all living things (plants, animals, people, etc.) around you. What do you hope to share with others about your lived experience? Show admissions that you’re eager to expand your horizons, learn about different cultures and points of view, and engage with a diverse range of people next year at Vassar.

2. Vassar is a diverse community that inspires positive change through open inquiry, deep dives into society’s most difficult challenges, and collaborative problem solving. We care deeply about one another, the communities that have forged us, and the community we build together on campus. Tell us more about the community (or communities) you come from and how it has shaped who you are.

This is a classic community essay, through and through. Admissions officers want to know not only that you value community, but how your background and community have made you into the person you are today. Where do you come from? What has influenced you as a young adult and how has that made your perspective unique? What you address can be reflective of larger cultural constructs or a trait specific to your nuclear family. Consider why your particular background or experience will be useful in an academic setting. How will it help inspire and/or inform others? Were you raised in an immigrant community near the border? Do you come from a blended family? Have you competed nationally in a lesser-known sport? What has influenced your identity? What do you believe and how will your experiences mold you into the kind of person that cares about others and collaborative problem solving?

If you wish to provide details of circumstances not reflected in the application, please upload a file here. Similarly, if you wish to upload your resume, include it here.

While this section is also optional, there’s no reason not to take advantage of it! If you have a more detailed or prettier resume/CV than what the Common App can accommodate, why not upload it here? For students in good academic standing, this is a freebie. On the other hand, if you have some gaps in your resume or blips on your transcript, consider this an invitation to tell your side of the story. You might consider writing what we call an “ additional info essay ” where you shed light on the personal circumstances (like an illness or family emergency) that may have caused these inconsistencies.

Your Space is your opportunity to allow the Committee on Admission to learn something about you that you have not addressed in another section of the application. Your Space is entirely optional. If you choose to include a Your Space submission, be sure it is labeled with your name, high school, and date of birth. Due to the volume of submissions, we will be unable to return your work. Please do not send anything that is irreplaceable.

Creative types will likely already have a few portfolio pieces saved up for just this type of question. Visual art, writing samples, expertly coded spreadsheets, and music clips are just a few of the basic forms your submission could take. Your submissions, like your essays, should represent you to admissions: they should reveal something new or provide a deeper understanding of something you have listed as an activity. Select one of your best works and share a limited sample. And if you’re not sure you have anything that fits, no worries! This is also the perfect place to recycle a supplemental essay that reveals more about your character, background, or interests.

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Vassar 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 Vassar supplemental essays and everything you need to keep in mind as you write.

Vassar 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, Vassar also requires that you complete a short essay about your personal or intellectual growth. The Vassar supplemental essays 2022-2023 allow applicants a certain amount of freedom when choosing their supplemental essay topic, but we’re going to look at each essay prompt and discuss the best way to respond to each topic.

Vassar Supplemental Essay Prompts 2022-2023

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 answering the Vassar supplemental essays 2022, there are some things to keep in mind. First, these essays are in addition to the personal statement found in the common app. Second, Vassar gives you the choice of several topics, and you are also allowed to share any additional important information in the Your Space section. So, let’s take a look at the Vassar supplemental essays 2022-2023 and come up with a strategy for responding to each one.

At Vassar, we aim to foster an inclusive community through our philosophy of engaged pluralism. Engaged pluralism is rooted in “the conviction that collaborating across differences is necessary for social transformation and critical for the well-being of any community and its members.” In short, we believe it’s our differences that make us stronger. Tell us a little bit about what makes you unique and what you hope to add to our community.

Vassar is a diverse community that inspires positive change through open inquiry, deep dives into society’s most difficult challenges, and collaborative problem-solving. We care deeply about one another, the communities that have forged us, and the community we build together on campus. Tell us more about the community (or communities) you come from and how it has shaped who you are.

Vassar gives you two prompts to choose from, and the Vassar supplemental essay word limit is 300 words. This should give you enough room to thoroughly respond to your prompt of choice. Later, we’ll talk about the other options Vassar offers you to include more information.

How to write the Vassar supplemental essays?

Applicants often wonder how to write Vassar supplemental essays because the wording of their prompts is somewhat complicated. However, if you look closely at the prompts, you will see that these prompts are not so different from the ones you’ve seen before. In fact, you’ve probably already written similar essays for other applications. Let’s break down each prompt and come up with strategies for an answer.

This probably isn’t the first essay prompt you’ve seen that concerns diversity, but this prompt is a little different than many others. First, the prompt brings up the concept of “engaged pluralism,” and this is something you should spend some time considering before you start writing. The word pluralism essentially means different groups coexisting with each other, and this is something to keep in mind when thinking about the second half of the prompt.

Instead of asking you how diversity has impacted your life, Vassar wants to know what sets you apart from others. This could be the result of your background or experiences with diversity, but it could also stem from your personality or the experiences you’ve had. Ultimately, you want to highlight what it is about you that will be a unique asset to Vassar. In order to do this, you need to think about what makes you, you.

While this might seem like another diversity-based prompt, Vassar is actually asking you to reflect on your community, and the effect this community has had on you. As with most community-based essay prompts, you can define “community” however you’d like. The important factor is the effect it has had on you. How are you a different person as a result of this community?

In addition to writing about the community that has shaped you, consider the role you would like to play in the Vassar community and what you bring to the table. The admissions staff wants to see that you value community, and this is your chance to tell them what community means to you.

If you wish to provide details of circumstances not reflected in the application, please upload a file here. Similarly, if you wish to upload your resume, include it here.

This section is completely optional and allows you to share anything that feels important to you that was not included in your application. This is also where you can share extenuating circumstances that may have negatively affected your high school performance. If you suffered a severe illness or another life-changing event, this is the place to share it.

Your Space is your opportunity to allow the Committee on Admission to learn something about you that you have not addressed in another section of the application. Your Space is entirely optional. If you choose to include a Your Space submission, be sure it is labeled with your name, high school, and date of birth. Due to the volume of submissions, we will be unable to return your work. Please do not send anything that is irreplaceable.

This section is also optional, and it can best be used to share an artistic or other academic achievement or project that you are proud of. Again, no pressure, so just use this space if you feel as though you still need to communicate something to the admissions staff.

At AdmissionSight , our goal is to help you with every step of the college admissions process. The Vassar 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 Vassar 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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How to Write the Vassar College Supplemental Essay: Examples + Guide 2022/2023

What are the vassar college supplemental essay prompts.

Optional uploads

Vassar College is a coeducational liberal arts college located two hours north of NYC. Founded as a progessive women’s college in 1861, Vassar turned down an invitation to merge with Yale in the 1960s, keeping its autonomy as it began admitting its first male students. Known for taking a bold approach to academic inquiry, Vassar offered hands-on courses and interdisciplinary majors way before all the cool schools were doing it. Independent thought is one of Vassar’s core values, so be sure to keep this in mind as you approach the prompt.

You’ll gain a deeper understanding of Vassar’s values and priorities by reading its mission statement . You’ll also find an extensive, by-the-numbers look at its offerings, from enrollment and tuition statistics to student life and financial aid information, on its Common Data Set .

Vassar College Supplemental Essay Prompt #1

Please select and respond to one of the following prompts in 300 words or less. At Vassar, we aim to foster an inclusive community through our philosophy of engaged pluralism. Engaged pluralism is rooted in “the conviction that collaborating across differences is necessary for social transformation and critical for the well-being of any community and its members.” In short, we believe it's our differences that make us stronger. Tell us a little bit about what makes you unique and what you hope to add to our community. Vassar is a diverse community that inspires positive change through open inquiry, deep dives into society’s most difficult challenges, and collaborative problem solving. We care deeply about one another, the communities that have forged us, and the community we build together on campus. Tell us more about the community (or communities) you come from and how it has shaped who you are.

And Vassar offers two optional uploads:

If you wish to provide details of circumstances not reflected in the application, please upload a file here. Similarly, if you wish to upload your resume, include it here. Your Space is your opportunity to allow the Committee on Admission to learn something about you that you have not addressed in another section of the application. For example, in the past, applicants have shared poetry, short stories, cartoons, digital images of art projects, photography, and collages, and/or links to videos, and short films. It is your space, so if you choose to complete it, send something that is a reflection of you! Your Space is entirely optional.

How to Write each Supplemental Essay Prompt for Vassar College

By offering these two similar prompts for you to choose from, Vassar is highlighting that community is a significant value of the institution. In either case, you have the opportunity to reflect on what you as a unique individual bring to the Vassar community and how you would impact it in a positive way.

What’s the difference between the two prompts? Hone in one the key words to get an idea: In the first, you find inclusivity, collaboration, social transformation, well-being and strength in difference. In other words, Vassar believes that a healthy and productive learning environment depends on a diverse assemblage of participants. Thus, it’s largely a diversity essay , in which you get to describe how your singular self will bring a special sparkle to the Vassar constellation. The second prompt names diverse community as enabling positive change, addressing society’s challenges, problem solving and caring for one another. Thus, it’s more of a community essay , in which you share how the community(ies) you come from have shaped you and how you will engage at Vassar to affect for the better the community there and beyond. You’ll find more detail about how to approach either prompt in the links above, but here’s the quick version:

how to write Vassar Supplemental Essay Prompt Option #1

At Vassar, we aim to foster an inclusive community through our philosophy of engaged pluralism. Engaged pluralism is rooted in “the conviction that collaborating across differences is necessary for social transformation and critical for the well-being of any community and its members.” In short, we believe it's our differences that make us stronger. Tell us a little bit about what makes you unique and what you hope to add to our community. (Limit 300 words)

For this diversity essay, take some time to list out several different ways in which you identify. For example, "I'm a ... reader, jazz lover, queer, Colombian, singer, feminist, etc." Name as many identities you claim as you can. While diversity can refer to ethnicity, class, religion or sexuality, think broadly about the elements of your unique context that have influenced your character, which may also include geography, perspectives, ways of living and more. Consider unusual experiences that have shaped you. For example, have your values conflicted with your family’s in complex ways? Have you been raised in a way that’s atypical? Demonstrate how these “differences” will contribute to the Vassar community. Here’s a guide that may help you tease out content and ideas.

Because this is a new prompt, we don’t have an example written specifically for it yet, but here’s a sample essay written for a different school that would work nicely with a few tweaks/additions.

As a light-skinned, soft-spoken, empathetic, and analytical Black woman, a lot of times I have felt that I am not a part of my own community. Many of my family members ask me why I relate so much to the East Asian community and culture. This, of course, has led me to question whether or not community is only skin-deep. I became engrossed in the East Asian community at a young age. My dad, an international pilot, often brought movies home from China. One day he brought home Spirited Away by Hayao Miyazaki. He described it as something similar to Alice in Wonderland. I could truly see myself in the Miyazaki’s heroines: from how they transcended their roles in life to how they met obstacles with resilience and bravery, these heroines helped me feel less alone. I evolved from watching Miyazaki movies to joining anime clubs, to reading East Asian philosophy, and eventually studying the works of Japanese author Haruki Murakami. This culminated in a trip to Japan last summer as a People to People: Student Ambassador. Immersed in the culture, I visited a Japanese high school, hiked Mt. Fuji, soaked in an onsen, and experienced a deep connection with my homestay family, the Mishimas. Through being a part of the East Asian community, I have explored answers to metaphysical questions, prayed at a Shinto shrine, and realized that community is a state of mind, much more than skin deep. — — —

Tips + Analysis

Find your facets. What are the different sides of you that make you … you? This student starts with adjectives that define her ethnicity, temperament, and personal qualities, then moves into a deeper reflection about her unexpected connection with East Asian culture and community. In this way, she shows her understanding of herself as someone who walks in a world other than the one she was born into, a unique and compelling aspect of herself. In describing her experiences, she also reveals some of the values that are important to her, such as curiosity, bravery, resilience, overcoming obstacles, and transcending one’s role in life.

Use rich detail. Here, we get a sense of how the student engaged with East Asian culture through the film Spirited Away and the works of author Haruki Murakami. She went to Japan, hiked Mt. Fiji, soaked in a natural hot spring, and stayed with a family whom she calls by name. Brainstorm a detail or example for each aspect of your identity using one of your five senses. What does each one look/smell/taste/sound/feel like? Bring the reader into your world—the more specific the better.

Say how you’ll contribute. The prompt specifically asks what you hope to add to Vassar’s community. In what ways will you contribute to the diversity on campus? Do you have a particular viewpoint or approach to life based on your combined experiences? Are there groups or organizations you’ll join? Is there an org you’d want to start? Show your reader that you’ve thought about how you want to engage with the school community. This student was answering a different prompt, so she didn’t specify how she’d use her unique qualities to make an impact on her college campus, but we can easily see her naming some East Asian clubs and activities at Vassar that she’d want to join—or better yet, finding other clubs and resources she’d enrich with her East Asian-influenced contributions.

Here’s another example we love, offered as a bonus.

The process of transitioning from male to female challenged me unlike any other obstacle. Tested on both a mental and a physical basis, I learned the importance of recognizing and understanding my hidden emotions. For many years, I tried to shut out the feeling that my assigned gender did not align with my emotional self. I would often feel uncomfortable looking in a mirror and would regularly daydream about living as a woman. Rather than attempting to understand this incongruence, I ignored my emotions on the basis that they were “irrational.” I believed it impossible that these emotions could indicate anything about me that I didn’t already know, so I rejected them. During this past year, I recognized that the only way I could resolve this struggle was to start accepting my emotions and experience them entirely. By recognizing and analyzing my emotions, I finally realized that I was a transgender woman. I could no longer deny that fact or allow anyone else to tell me otherwise. Since that realization, I have grown emotionally and taken control of my life. I have started taking feminizing hormones for my physical transition, and have begun my social transition through name and pronoun changes. Had I not challenged myself to address my gender dysphoria, I would not be the emotionally whole and confident transgender woman I am today. — — —

how to write Vassar Supplemental Essay Prompt Option #2

Vassar is a diverse community that inspires positive change through open inquiry, deep dives into society’s most difficult challenges, and collaborative problem solving. We care deeply about one another, the communities that have forged us, and the community we build together on campus. Tell us more about the community (or communities) you come from and how it has shaped who you are. (Limit 300 words)

For this community prompt, first identify the communities you’re a part of, which can be defined by place, identities, interests, circumstances and more. Where do you come from, where have you participated, and how have those experiences shaped who you are? Then notice that the prompt implicitly asks about your readiness to make positive change, collaborate to solve society’s problems and care for the community. Reflect on how you have already done that in one or more of your communities, and envision how you’ll apply the skills and lessons you learned at Vassar or beyond. Use this guide , with exercises and examples, to help you brainstorm some topics.

Here’s a sample essay written for a different school that would fit the focus of option 2, and could be tweaked to do so even further.

Every season, my high school volleyball coaches pick an inspiring quote to label on the back of our practice shirts. My favorite? “Be a voice, not an echo.” After wearing braces for several years to correct a persistent jaw pain, I was elated when they were removed. However, after just a few months, my orthodontist noticed my teeth shifting to their previous position and recommended tongue therapy. Though reluctant at first, I gained a newfound confidence through tongue therapy. In the classroom, no longer the last to speak. On the volleyball court, effectively communicating plays and rotations. Tongue therapy allowed me to freely speak my mind. As my confidence soared, so did my desire to help others. Through Lion’s Heart, I once provided baby supplies to needy families in Santa Ana and noticed a long line forming for the provisions. Realizing many immigrant families were struggling with filling out the forms, I offered to translate for them. Through Chinese and Spanish translation, I not only reduced wait times, but became the voice for those who could not speak, literally. As a selected participant for Girls Who Code, I found even more voices. Introduced to coding for the first time, I now know more languages, including HTML and JavaScript. I now plan to help others discover their voice. Using technology-based solutions, I will develop innovations for society’s problems. Perhaps, a device that can both translate multiple languages and teach correct pronunciations. After all, I am a voice, not an echo. — — —

Describe your communities and how they’ve shaped you. This author walks in the worlds of volleyball, classrooms, tongue therapy, community service, Chinese and Spanish speakers, and Girls Who Code. Through her interactions in each of these communities, she gained confidence, developed leadership, and learned to speak her mind. What worlds do you inhabit? Who are the people and places with whom you connect and relate? How and with whom have you spent your time? Use the exercise in the guide linked above to brainstorm a list of the communities you’re a part of. Then consider how each of these has influenced you, your daily life, your perspective, your plans and dreams. What values and qualities have you developed as a result of these interactions?

Map out your participation. What role do you play in the communities you’re involved in? Whose lives do you touch and with what result? This student enhanced communication among her teammates and used her translation skills so people could access needed food. Describe the specific actions you’ve taken and the impact you’ve had. Consider the positive change you’ve made and the problems you’ve solved (personal, local, or global) by your contributions to your community(ies).

Share your vision. This student’s growth led her to use her newfound skills to serve the community and find within herself a desire to help further. After learning to code with other motivated young women, she now shares her vision for how she wants to use technology to help amplify others’ voices. How do you intend to build on what you’ve started? What will that look like at Vassar and in the world?

Go further. This can be a great place to bring in some “Why us?” elements—showing that you’ve done your research and you know why you and Vassar are a great fit. What organizations, activities, or opportunities on campus are you excited about that tie in with your community involvement?

This next essay takes a similar approach while describing a different type of community. It too suggests the unique ways in which this student will contribute to the communities he joins going forward.

I’m a farmhand at Gaining Ground. Every summer I dig up potatoes with my bare hands, meticulously sort, pack, and load them onto trucks for homeless shelters, Head Start programs and soup kitchens. Much of my life is digital, but mud doesn’t mix well with smartphones. On the farm, I leave my phone under rows of drying garlic and find a certain peace in trading it for a pair of work gloves. I’m also the ‘guy who loads the truck’. The only way everything fits is if the crates are stacked just right: there’s an art to that. My first day, I unloaded the entire truck and reloaded it in a more sensible configuration--heavy crates on the bottom, lettuce baskets on top--in the rain. Each time, I get the delicate produce to the shelters in better shape. When each volunteer strives to do their part just a bit better, the impact on the community, and on the lives of those we help, can be extraordinary. When asked why I go back after finishing my community service hours, I usually say “I just like to help people,” but that’s only part of it. I do it for the look on the farmer’s face when I come when they’re shorthanded, for the juicy discussions as my hands sift through the earth for carrots, for the soup kitchen’s gratitude when they pick up their vegetables. I keep coming back to work with a community that helps people in ways no individual could alone. — — —

How to approach Vassar’s optional uploads

With these additional uploads, Vassar is giving you the chance to answer the question, “What else would you like us to know?” They’re optional, so don’t feel like you have to add something. However, they can help distinguish you from other candidates and make your application stand out. Or they can be your opportunity to explain a circumstance or challenge that might affect your candidacy.

In deciding whether and what to submit, consider offerings that show another side of yourself that doesn’t appear elsewhere in your application. Step back and take a look at the information you’ve already included. Is there something missing? Something you need or want Vassar to know? Something necessary to give the reader a fuller understanding of you? Be mindful not to repeat information that you’ve already included somewhere else.

Additional upload #1 might include information about:

Health or economic issues, traumatic events or other circumstances that impacted your educational performance or participation in extracurricular activities

Physical or learning differences

Unusual grading systems or classes that might not be clear from your transcript or might show something particularly interesting about you

A stellar academic or extracurricular activity that you weren’t able to describe fully

A project or obligation that occupied a great deal of your time and is not reflected elsewhere in your application

A special honor or award that requires further illumination

A “red flag” on your application, e.g., a bad grade you received in science, why you dropped two sports last year, or the fact that you want to major in math but didn’t take a class in the subject last year

Our guide to the Common App Additional Information Section has examples and more advice about these types of submissions.

Additional upload #2 is fairly self-explanatory. Vassar prides itself on the diversity and creativity of its student body. Have you produced something wonderful? Share it! Like some other essay prompts, this option is a great one for sharing an essay you wrote (and are particularly proud of) for another school, especially if it shows a side of you Vassar hasn’t seen yet. Learn more about saving time with “super” essays here .

Special thanks to Shira for writing this blog post.

Shira Harris is an alternative educator, amateur ambassador, former civil rights attorney and queer activist, who received her BA from UC Berkeley and law degree from New York University. Currently, she studies Arabic, Hebrew, migration and mediation in the Mediterranean; upon completion of the masters program, she intends to work for peace in Israel Palestine. Shira loves hiking, camping, traveling, learning, cooking with friends, the CEG community and fourth-grader jokes.

Top Values: Integrity/ Curiosity / Love

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How to Write the Vassar Supplement 2022-2023

Vassar is a private liberal arts college in Poughkeepsie, New York. The school used to be a Women’s college, but, was the first women's college in the country to become coeducational in 1969. Men now make up around 45% of the undergraduate population. Vassar prides itself on its broad liberal arts education and classes that teach students how to think and not what to think. Vassar is on the smaller side with around 2500 students. Their acceptance rate is about 20%. Vassar’s supplemental materials are largely optional (more on that later,) however one question is required. Let’s break down what Vassar asks you and how we would tackle it.

First, they ask you to respond to ONE of two prompts. However, those two prompts are both very wordy and that can trip people up on what they are actually asking.

Please select and respond to one of the following prompts in 300 words or less.*

At vassar, we aim to foster an inclusive community through our philosophy of engaged pluralism. engaged pluralism is rooted in “the conviction that collaborating across differences is necessary for social transformation and critical for the well-being of any community and its members.” in short, we believe it's our differences that make us stronger. tell us a little bit about what makes you unique and what you hope to add to our community..

You can ignore most of the words in this prompt. What it is asking is what are you going to bring to Vassar and what are you excited about once you are here. In a lot of ways, it’s a “ why do you want to go here ” essay, but it also asks you to talk about what makes you unique. This essay requires Vassar specifics that relate to your own life.

You might be freaking out about not knowing “what makes you unique.” It can feel really broad and scary, but there are hundreds of things that make you unique. The easiest way however to approach this is by talking about your interests. Your interests are unique to you and this is your time to showcase them. This should include basics like what you want to major in and classes you want to take but also activities you do in high school that you also hope to do in college. This essay should talk both about classes and on-campus life. Ideally, your answer will show not only why Vassar is the school for you but also why Vassar should want you.

For example, maybe your parents instilled in you a love of math when you were young, but you also have a passion for theater. This is unique. You can talk about how you want to pursue Math in the classroom and get involved in the arts outside of class at Vassar. Make sure you use specifics to back up that Vassar’s community has the opportunities you are specifically looking for and also what you would bring to those communities.

Vassar is a diverse community that inspires positive change through open inquiry, deep dives into society’s most difficult challenges, and collaborative problem solving. We care deeply about one another, the communities that have forged us, and the community we build together on campus. Tell us more about the community (or communities) you come from and how it has shaped who you are.

This is another very wordy prompt. It really only asks students to talk about how their community shaped them. That’s it. Sometimes the word “community” can trip students up. Community can mean an ethnic, religious, or minority group, but it can also be a ton of other groups. Your community might be your school or your baseball team. Community could be a group of friends who do weekly movie nights or the people at your job. You can choose to write about any of these communities.

The more important thing here is to tell a story about a moment when your chosen community shaped something about you. This prompt should feel like a story with a beginning, middle, and end, or else it will feel rambly. First, introduce the community and then talk about a day or time that was meaningful for you. For example, if you choose to write about a baseball team, maybe you want to tell a story about a time you stepped up as captain for a team when the usual captain was out sick. What did you learn from this experience? In what ways did you grow? How did your community support you that day?

If you want to write about a minority community, you can approach this the same way. Let’s say you want to talk about being Muslim. Same thing. Write about a day you volunteered at your Mosque or a time you connected with an elder from your community. It should also feel like a story and show how you support your community and how they have supported you.

If you wish to provide details of circumstances not reflected in the application, please upload a file here. Similarly, if you wish to upload your resume, include it here.

This section is technically optional, but we suggest adding your resume here. You shouldn’t need to use this section for additional information. If you have something you need to explain, that can go in the area of the Common App that lets you provide additional information.

We would encourage all students to make a simple, one-page resume ready to use for questions like this. If you have never written a resume before, you can check out examples online or read our guide to resume writing . Resume writing is a skill. The first one is always the hardest since there is a bit of a learning curve, but once you have made one, you can use it again and again.

Your Space is your opportunity to allow the Committee on Admission to learn something about you that you have not addressed in another section of the application. For example, in the past, applicants have shared poetry, short stories, cartoons, digital images of art projects, photography, and collages, and/or links to videos, and short films. It is your space, so if you choose to complete it, send something that is a reflection of you! Your Space is entirely optional.

The last question is also optional, but unlike the resume section, it’s not as simple for everyone. This space is best for students who are involved in the arts. Think about the things that they list in the prompt. They are all creative endeavors. If you aren’t artsy, that’s fine, but don’t try to force it. If you are trying to draw a cartoon the night before, usually people can tell.

However, if you participate in a creative pursuit, feel free to add it here. We love zines, photography portfolios, articles you wrote for the school paper, videos of you singing opera, etc. Our only tip is don’t overload them. Adding a poem that you got published in a literary journal is amazing. Adding a full unpublished novel, however… is a lot. Ask yourself can a reader take in what you have shared in around 15 min? If so, great. If not, maybe try to cut it back. Readers are busy and don’t have time to watch a full orchestra recital for each student. Try to just send the solo.

We highly encourage all students to respond to 2 of Vassar’s questions and for many, we encourage all 3. These questions might take you some time, especially if you don’t have a resume and acting reel ready to go. If you don’t already have a resume or arts supplement teed up, it pays to create one. You can use it over and over again. Many schools ask for resumes and they are a great resource to have during this process.

Need help with supplements? Resumes? We got you. Reach out here.

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Applying to Vassar

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Information for First-Year Applicants

Everything you need to know to apply.

First-Year Application Requirements

Application checklist.

Optional Application Materials

Standardized tests.

Vassar does not require students to submit the SAT or ACT for the 2022–2023 admission cycle. Applicants can declare whether or not they wish to include testing with their application by logging in to the applicant status portal and completing the test optional form; the deadlines to do so are:

Enrolling students who choose to self-report testing will be required to provide official score reports in the spring. Vassar reserves the right to revoke an offer of admission if an applicant’s self-reported scores do not align with those in their official score report.

Your Space is your opportunity to allow the Committee on Admission to learn something about you that you have not addressed in another section of the application. For example, in the past, applicants have shared poetry, short stories, cartoons, digital images of art projects, photography, and collages, and/or links to videos, and short films. It is your space, so if you choose to complete it, send something that is a reflection of you! Your Space is entirely optional.

Informational Interviews

After applying, you may request an informational interview with an alumnus to learn more about the Vassar experience. These interviews are not evaluative and are not a required part of the application process.

Music, Art, and Dance Portfolios

If you have a well-developed talent or significant accomplishment in music, art, or dance, you may submit a portfolio to be evaluated by our faculty.

How to Apply

Requirements, deadlines, financial aid... everything you need to know about how to apply to Vassar.

International Applicants

Vassar is a vibrant community of global citizens. Learn more about the application process for international students.

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Transfer Applicants

See the checklist of requirements to transfer to Vassar.

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How to Complete the Vassar College Supplemental Essays

Vassar College is a private liberal arts college located in Poughkeepsie, New York with a history, unlike many other colleges. Founded in 1861, Vassar was originally an all-women’s college that became co-ed in 1969. Vassar’s mission is to provide a thorough liberal arts education to all their students. The admission rate for the class of 2025 was 20 percent . Vassar wants to see applicants that demonstrate strong academic potential and an interest in being involved in the Vassar community. One great way to show your potential is through your Vassar College supplemental essays

Before you apply to Vassar College

College is the place many students become independent for the first time. The resources you have around you should help prepare you for what you want to come next. Creating a well-rounded response to an essay prompt should include a desire to attend that school and a knowledge of what they have to offer.

Vassar is proud of its history. Their mission today is still largely inspired by their original mission from when they first opened their doors in 1861. They strive to create a college that supports diversity, creativity, and intellectual exploration. Knowing what they support and what you want from a school should be a crucial step in your college search. So, before you start, spend some time on their website, and social media accounts and, if possible, take a tour!

How to apply to Vassar College

When applying to Vassar, first-year applicants may apply through the Common Application, Coalition Application or QuestBridge. Applications are then viewed by a need-blind review board. This means applicants are not admitted or declined based on their financial standing. There is a $65 non-refundable application fee. A request to waive the fee can be made.

Vassar College supplemental essays

Once you reach the application, you’ll see the prompt that you have to answer. While you may be tempted to quickly answer their short prompt, keep in mind that with one prompt comes one chance. A well-thought-out, concise answer is key to your Vassar application.

The Vassar College supplemental essay prompt

“Why are you applying to Vassar?” (300-word limit)

Somehow, this question may not feel so simple when it’s on a college admissions application. But don’t begin to worry, sometimes a tough question just needs to be broken down and asked in another way.

When applying to a college it’s important to remember that while you are applying to them, they also have to fit your needs. Which means you have to ask yourself some questions.

Colleges aren’t looking to hear more about what you’ve done; chances are, you’ve already talked about your clubs, sports teams, and extracurricular activities in another part of the application. Some applications may have a section where you can upload your resume. If they give you that option, it’s a great thing to take advantage of. You should strive to never leave anything blank on a college application. If they’re asking for it, give them an answer.

When answering this prompt, Vassar wants to hear what you will do .

Also see: How to write an essay about yourself

Final thoughts

If you don’t know exactly which major you want to pursue, that’s okay. Write out a few of the majors you think you’d like to explore and look at the opportunities they offer within those fields. Colleges know that changing majors is common and expected. It’s okay if what you talk about on your application isn’t what you end up pursuing. They just want to know that you put thought into their school and their application.

Overall, your response, though only one question, should answer a few questions. If you are still having trouble, use the questions below to help generate some ideas.

Additional Resources

As you work on your college applications, there are a lot of decisions to make. That includes how many colleges to apply to , which safety, reach, and match schools to choose, and when to apply for college . You’ll also have to decide whether to apply Early Decision and/or Early Action , schedule college visits , and finally, choose a college .

For some additional help with your applications, you can also check out our insider’s guide of what happens inside an admissions office . Also check out our guide to the Common App essay prompts and our tips for successful college applications . Good luck!

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Supplemental Essays for Vassar and University of Rochester; Listener Q&A

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Vassar College

Rebuilding the bubble: college admission essay sample.

When I was a little kid I used to carry around notebooks which I filled with hundreds of stories ranging in length from a single, whimsical sentence to pages and pages of fantasy. Every hour of the day, there were countless images and ideas running…

On my own: College Admission Essay Sample

Cowardice surged through me as Emma sneered down at me. Her eyes pierced my own, seemingly oblivious to the glints of sunlight through the boughs of the shadowy trees. “Apologize!” Emma demanded, and I trembled. Raising my hand to shield my eyes against the sunlight,…

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Vassar College 2022-23 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide
Were you raised in an immigrant community near the border? Do you come from a blended family? Have you competed nationally in a lesser-known sport? What has
How to Write the Vassar College Essays 2022-2023
Vassar College Supplemental Essay Prompts. Prompt 1: Please select and respond to one of the following prompts in 300 words or less.
Vassar Supplemental Essays 2022-2023
Vassar gives you two prompts to choose from, and the Vassar supplemental essay word limit is 300 words. This should give you enough room to
How to Write the Vassar College Supplemental Essay: Examples +
how to write Vassar Supplemental Essay Prompt Option #1 · Find your facets. What are the different sides of you that make you … you? · Use rich
How to Write the Vassar Supplement 2022-2023
Your interests are unique to you and this is your time to showcase them. This should include basics like what you want to major in and classes
Applying to Vassar ← Admission ← Vassar College
Application Deadlines. Early Decision I. November 15. Early Decision II. January 1 (Extended to Jan. 5, 2023). Regular Decision. January 1 (Extended to Jan.
First-Year Applicants
Everything you need to know to apply. Application Deadlines. Early Decision I. November 15. Early Decision II. January 1 (Extended to Jan. 5, 2023).
How to Complete the Vassar College Supplemental Essays
The Vassar College supplemental essay prompt · What is it you wish to achieve? · What is their college going to offer you that is going to help
Supplemental Essays for Vassar and University of Rochester
The latest episode of Getting In: A College Coach Conversation dives into the supplemental essay questions for Vassar and University of Rochester. Tune in!
Vassar College
Writing an application essay is always quite a job, especially for Vassar College. We prepared free samples to make your life easier.