5 Columbia Supplemental Essay Examples (With Prompts & Written Essays)

Columbia-Supplemental-Essay-Examples

Just imagine that you’re sitting at your desk, staring at the blank screen of your laptop, wondering how on earth you’re going to tackle the Columbia University supplemental essay.

It’s like staring down a maze with no map in sight.

But we’re going to help you through the twists and turns of this essay together.

We’ll explore real-life examples that will not only inspire you but also show you just how to make your essay stand out from the crowd.

Let’s take a look at some of the Columbia supplemental essays prompts along with written essay examples:

Columbia Supplemental Essay: Prompt 1

Prompt: A hallmark of the Columbia experience is being able to learn and thrive in an equitable and inclusive community with a wide range of perspectives. Tell us about an aspect of your own perspective, viewpoint or lived experience that is important to you, and describe how it has shaped the way you would learn from and contribute to Columbia’s diverse and collaborative community.

Essay Example:

Growing up in a multicultural neighborhood, I’ve experienced firsthand the richness that diversity brings.

My family’s roots span across three continents, giving me a unique blend of traditions, languages, and viewpoints. This multicultural background has taught me the value of empathy, open-mindedness, and adaptability.

At Columbia, I would bring this global perspective to classroom discussions, enriching conversations with insights from different cultures.

My background has also made me passionate about advocating for inclusivity and understanding, which I hope to channel into joining cultural clubs and participating in diversity initiatives on campus.

By accepting and celebrating differences, I believe I can help create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Learning from Columbia’s diverse community will broaden my horizons and deepen my commitment to building bridges across cultures and perspectives.

Columbia Supplemental Essay: Prompt 2

Prompt: In college/university, students are often challenged in ways that they could not predict or anticipate. It is important to us, therefore, to understand an applicant’s ability to navigate through adversity. Please describe a barrier or obstacle you have faced and discuss the personal qualities, skills or insights you have developed as a result.

Essay Example:

During my sophomore year, I struggled with a serious illness that kept me out of school for several months. Missing so much class time and falling behind was incredibly stressful, but it taught me resilience and time management.

I learned to advocate for myself, communicating with teachers and friends to catch up on missed work and stay connected.

This experience also deepened my empathy. I understood what it meant to feel isolated and overwhelmed, which made me more supportive and understanding towards others facing their own challenges. I developed strong problem-solving skills, finding creative ways to stay on track with my studies despite my circumstances.

At Columbia, I will bring this empathy to the community, offering support to peers and contributing to a compassionate and understanding campus environment. My ability to understand adversity has prepared me to face future challenges with determination and a positive mindset.

Columbia Supplemental Essay: Prompt 3

Prompt: Why are you interested in attending Columbia University? We encourage you to consider the aspect(s) that you find unique and compelling about Columbia.

Essay Example:

Columbia University captivates me with its unique mixture of academics and urban setting. The Core Curriculum excites me because it ensures a well-rounded education, creating critical thinking and intellectual growth. I am particularly drawn to Columbia’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, which aligns with my own values and background.

Being in New York City, Columbia offers unmatched opportunities for internships, cultural experiences, and networking. The city’s dynamic energy and endless resources will enrich my education and provide real-world learning experiences.

Moreover, the faculty’s dedication to research and innovation inspires me. I am eager to learn from and collaborate with leading scholars in my field. Columbia’s global perspective and emphasis on making a positive impact resonate deeply with my aspirations.

Ultimately, Columbia’s unique combination of academic excellence, diverse community, and prime location makes it the perfect place for me to grow and thrive.

Columbia Supplemental Essay: Prompt 4

Prompt: What attracts you to your preferred areas of study at Columbia College or Columbia Engineering?

Essay Example:

I’m drawn to studying Computer Science at Columbia because of my passion for technology and its potential to solve real-world problems. The research opportunities and innovative projects at Columbia excite me. I’m particularly interested in artificial intelligence and its applications in improving everyday life.

Columbia’s emphasis on interdisciplinary learning is also appealing. The chance to combine computer science with other fields like economics or biology will help me develop versatile skills and a broader understanding of how technology impacts various industries.

The tech community in New York City is another big draw. Being in such a dynamic environment will provide amazing opportunities for internships and networking, allowing me to learn from industry leaders.

Columbia Supplemental Essay: Prompt 5

Prompt: In Columbia’s admissions process, we value who you are as a unique individual, distinct from your goals and achievements. In the last words of this writing supplement, we would like you to reflect on a source of happiness. Help us get to know you further by describing the first thing that comes to mind when you consider what simply brings you joy.

Essay Example:

The first thing that comes to mind is playing the piano. Whenever I sit down to play, I feel a sense of peace and happiness. The music allows me to express my emotions and escape from daily stress. It’s a simple joy that always lifts my spirits and brings a smile to my face.

Final Verdict

Writing a killer Columbia University supplemental essay doesn’t have to feel like scaling Mount Everest.

With a little creativity, some personal flair, and a whole lot of heart, you can turn your essay into a masterpiece that grabs the attention of admissions officers.

Let your story shine through every word.

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