How to Write UMichigan Supplemental Essays: 6 Tips (2023)

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Ready to learn how to write University of Michigan essays? This guide has all the information you need.

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The college admissions process can be quite long. If you are applyingUniversity of Michigan, you need your transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and letters of recommendation. You will also be asked towrite essays.

Supplemental essays from the University of Michigan form the most important part of the application. Here, you show the admissions committee different sides of yourself that reveal your grades and test scores. Essays can add great value to your application and make your candidacy stand out.

This comprehensive guide will teach you all about the University of Michigan Supplementary Essays. We'll discuss its purpose, give tips for masterfully creating your own, and give some examples of companion essays from the University of Michigan. If you want to increase your chances of being accepted to the University of Michigan, keep reading!

Purpose of the University of Michigan Supplementary Essays

U Michigan's Supplemental Essays are one way to humanize your application. Show the admissions committee how your experiences have shaped you.

While the rest of the components of your application are essential, your grades and test scores do not show the admissions committee who is the person behind the numbers and accolades.

Questions vary from year to year for the University of Michigan Supplemental Essays. Examples of question topics include:

• Your origin and community;
• Instances in which you overcame adversity;
• How going to school will help you realize your aspirations;
• How your acceptance would enhance the culture and community of the school.

The purpose of these essays is to demonstrate your character and individuality in a concise manner. You want to show the admissions committee who you are beyond numbers and scores. The best way to portray yourself authentically is by creating impactful essays.

What are University of Michigan Supplementary Essays?

The University of Michigan requires all applicants to write two supplementary essays, regardless of the program they wish to enter. Please note that you still need to complete an essay as part of thecommon applicationor the Coalition Application.

Supplementary writing requests from any school can vary from year to year, but most revolve around similar topics. Below are some examples ofMichigan Supplemental Test Indicators:

1. "Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interests, race, ideology, or shared intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities you belong to and describe this community and your place in it. (Required for all applicants)"

2. "Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific college or graduate school (including preferred admissions and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would this curriculum support your interests?" ? (Required for all candidates) "

Below we'll detail our top tips to ensure your essay makes you stand out from the crowd. Read on for Michigan Supplemental Essay Examples.

6 Tips for Writing Complementary Essays from the University of Michigan

The supplementary writing prompts can seem overwhelming due to their breadth. However, these tips will help you smoothly execute essays that captivate your reader. You will be able to demonstrate why you should be accepted into any program at the University of Michigan.

1. Brainstorm your narrative

While you must use the assigned topics, you can still choose the narrative you will present. For the first message, identify the communities you belong to and describe how you fit into each one.

You probably belong to more than one community, and that's okay. As you finish compiling your list, you can identify which narrative has the most compelling content to write. This will probably be your winner.

For the second message, consider why you want to go to the University of Michigan. This notice deserves some investigation. You'll want to know how your chosen program will help elevate your future career and aspirations. Alluding to specific courses or the purpose and outcomes of your program can help demonstrate your seriousness and commitment to UMichigan.

2. Create an outline to stay on track

Creating an outline helps you stay on track and prevents you from getting sidetracked from the story you intend to tell. Your sketch doesn't have to be perfect (remember that no one else needs to see it except you). Think of it as a safeguard and a reminder to make sure you hit all the critical elements you want in your essay.

How you create your sketch is up to you. Some people prefer bullet points, writing the first and last sentences of their paragraphs. Some prefer a more visual format like a mind map.

3. Think about your presentation

Think of your presentations as the equivalent of a first meeting. This is your chance to make a stellar first impression. Your introduction should draw the reader in right from the start and not let them go until you finish your essay.

A great way to immerse the reader from the beginning of your essay is to start right in the middle of the action. You can leave the reader right in the middle with a personal anecdote that supports the message. Some candidates may also use their introduction to create a scene or backdrop that they will explore later in their essay.

4. Create the body of your essay

The body of your essay is where you continue your story in great detail that builds on the narrative you set out to tell in your introduction. In the first notice, he can add more details about the community he is a part of, how it has shaped it, and what he has learned from his experiences.

On your second application, the body of your essay may contain more information about why you want to apply to a specific program. You can discuss how attending the University of Michigan can support your passions and career goals.

Some writers can get lost in the body of their essays. If you feel like you're straying from the story you want to tell, go back to your outline. Consider and accept what ideas more relevant to your story may emerge as you write.

5. Finish strong

The conclusions of your essay are the last thing the admissions officer will read. You want your reader to be satisfied and the conclusion to be the perfect place to end your story in an orderly fashion.

In conclusion, look to the future. The conclusion can also be a great place for you to reiterate how your experiences have changed you for the better. Be specific about how the University of Michigan can have a positive impact on your life.

6. Editions, editions, editions and more editions

Even if you were the best writer in the class, your first draft probably wouldn't be perfect. Editing, proofreading, changing sentences, and changing words and punctuation are all part of the revision process.

While it's a good idea to review your work the first few times you make edits, a second set of eyes is an invaluable asset. Sometimes we get so close to our work that we are blind to mistakes that another reader would immediately spot.

You want to make sure that your essay is the best it can be. Oneadmissions consultantA fresh perspective and knowledge of undergraduate application processes can take your essays from good to great.

Examples of Supplementary Essays from the University of Michigan

Good essays can help you stand out in the admissions process and show why you're a fantastic candidate. Below you will find UMich Supplementary Essay Examples to give you an idea of ​​how to create meaningful essays.

Essay Example #1

University of Michiganessay extractHe then addresses the first notice, asking him to“Choose one of the communities to which you belong and describe that community and your place within it.”

“The bus took ten minutes to get home this time, not the usual thirty. This wasn't my house, but basically it would become that."

"Morristown Neighborhood House is a center that provides a free and safe after-school environment for local children..." While there were several options for the summer, I felt there could be no better option than to apply to be a camp counselor at Nabe" .

"The boys became family; through sarcophagus art projects, writing practice, Xbox tournaments, implicit discussions of bias, and trips to the park, they became the little brothers I never had. When I brought everyone ice cream on my birthday, I was showered with hugs. No exchange trip could top this. I am a member of many communities based on my geography, ethnicity, interests, and talents, but the most meaningful community is the one I never thought I would be a part of. ."

"On that first bus trip to Nabe, I never saw that happen."

What made this trial a success?

This essay immediately immerses the reader in the writer's narrative. The writer demonstrates how they integrated into a community and established meaningful relationships with the children at the camp.

This essay shows the initiative of the writer in contributing to his community. It also demonstrates his impact on a group while in a leadership position. The writer's story is short but powerful and shows that he has a strong spirit capable of contributing to his community and, hopefully, to the University of Michigan.

Essay Example #2

The following essay excerpt addresses the second message of the University of Michigan Supplementary Essay:

“Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific college or graduate school (including dual degree and preferred admissions programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would this curriculum support your interests?”

“In my first-year microeconomics class, my professor extensively explored the ways in which people of different socioeconomic classes have been affected by our economic system. He was frustrated with the way our country forces those living in poverty to spend what little money they have on taxable possessions. I began to sympathize with them..."

"These lessons inspired and motivated me. I have always viewed the economy as nothing more than an analysis of business models and resource allocation. From expanding health to crime rates and poverty to studying how changes in our political climate affect how it will change the financial process of our country. I now see the economy as a way to help those in need in my country and around the world."

"I volunteered after school for Dingell's representative and had the opportunity to participate in various events hosted by Ford School..."

"I want to begin my education at the University of Michigan at LSA to gain a foundation in courses related to economics and political science. After my junior year, I hope to be admitted to the Ford School. The connections that LSA and Ford have with the Poverty Solutions solidified my interest in the University of Michigan. By attending these schools as an undergraduate, I could help with research into the causes and ramifications of poverty..."

"The variety of schools that work in connection with Poverty Solutions is a testament to the university's devotion to civic engagement. I would be able to engage in groundbreaking research on topics that interest me; I would have the ability to study poverty and ways to slow it down or alleviate it, its effects in other countries..."

"I want to join the legacy of innovators at the University of Michigan. I want to be a part of the LSA community, study economics and political science. I want to attend the Ford School and understand how politics in the United States and abroad affect the world ". The Poverty Solutions Initiative, which conducts innovative research on how we can reform our financial system to better serve the lower and middle classes.

What made this trial a success?

This essay wastes no time getting to a vital question that the writer wants to address. The writer explains in detail what classes and causes motivate them. They explain what they want to do in the future and how their extracurricular activities align with their goals.

This essay shows that the writer has researched and knows which path to take to achieve his goals. Best of all, the writer sheds light on how admission to the University of Michigan can help them work toward their goals of a brighter future.

The University of Michigan is looking for leaders who want to impact the world and their community through positive change. The conclusion of this essay perfectly describes what the candidate wants to do.

UMich Complementary Writing FAQ

Still have questions about how to write University of Michigan essays? We are protecting you.

1. Besides the supplementary essays, are there any other essays I need to write?

Yes, you will need to write another essay in addition to the supplementary essays. When you sign up with the Common Application or Coalition Application, you will need to select a prompt to respond to alist.

2. What is the importance of UMich complementary tests?

The University of Michigan essay section is a crucial part of your application. Remember that “Unlike test scores and transcripts, thecollege admission essayIt gives students a chance to show their personality.”

The admissions committee looks at college applications holistically, which means that every part you submit counts in their decision. Your essays are a way to bring your app to life and show the human being behind the scores and grades. Don't be afraid to show who you are; he can help you claim his place at the University of Michigan.

3. How long should trials last?

Although the University of Michigan does not set a word limit on its website, you should aim for between 250 and 650 words. Use as many words as necessary to tell a concise and compelling story.

4. What tone should my essays convey?

You don't want to sound too stiff and formal, nor do you want tofill your essay with jargon- you want to shoot conversationally, yet friendly and professional. Make sure your voice shines without editing!

5. Are there additional trials specific to the program?

You only need to write one additional essay if you are applying to the University of Michigan School of Education. EITHERinciteis “Discuss where you would like to teach and/or the types of students you would like to teach and how you developed that commitment.”

6. What is the best I can do in my writing?

In your essay, be honest, concise, and coherent, and make sure your reader can easily digest and follow your narrative. While you still want to sound like yourself, don't be afraid to show your intellect and include vibrant details and anecdotes that bring your essay to life!

Conclusion

The University of Michigan is a great school to complete your college degree. Now that you know much more about what's expected of you in supplemental essays, you can feel empowered knowing that you have the experience to deliver stellar writing.

By keeping in mind the purpose of the University of Michigan Supplementary Essays and the best tips to ensure your essay is polished, you can certainly catch the eye of the admissions committee. If the University of Michigan is your dream school, leave knowing that you have the tools to submit the best supplemental essays you can and have the best chance of being accepted.

Write Your Future with Companion Essays from UMich

The University of Michigan is a great school to complete your college degree. Now that you know so much more about what to write in supplementary essays, you can feel empowered knowing that you have the knowledge you need to deliver stellar writing.

Don't forget the purpose of University of Michigan Supplementary Essays and top tips to ensure your writing is polished. With this information, you can certainly get the attention of the admissions committee. Go on knowing that you have the tools to submit the best supplementary essays and have the best chance of being accepted!