Writing Boston University's Supplement

Boston University, situated in the hub of historical, political and social affluence is regarded as one of the most prestigious and competitive institutions around the world. Being in Boston and at Boston University means you have access to a wide range of distinguished professors, endless internship and work opportunities and a network of motivated and driven peers spanning the world. Boston University, like many top institutions, already knows what they can offer you, and that's exactly why their supplemental essay wants to know why, out of all the placed in the world, you want to attend there. So, why then, do you want to attend Boston University?

This was Boston University's supplemental question for the 2014-2015 academic year:

In no more than 250 words, please tell us why BU is a good fit for you and what specifically has led you to apply for admission.

In it's most simplest form, this is a "Why _______ University/College" essay. Look at this previous post on how to write school-specific supplements directly to the school. This essay requires you to pinpoint specific details of Boston University (hence requiring you to do background research) that appeal to you and are only offered at Boston University. In addition, you need to specify for what reason(s) you applied to Boston University - not just tell them why you are the ideal candidate for Boston University - as evident by the second clause. A "why X college/university" supplement for the most part is very straightforward - you need to identify key aspects of the institution that appeal to you, infer to how you would contribute to student and campus life (e.g. how would you make an impact?), and why, out of all of the places in the world, you are drawn there.

Here is an example from a TCE staff member who applied to and was successfully admitted to BU. Use this essay not as means of comparison, idea source or content knowledge. Instead, use this essay to look at the format. The writer effectively pinpoints why he is interested in Boston University (ASB program, lots of majors), how he will contribute to both Boston University (international student body, question everything around him) and the world and why he has applied to Boston University (to learn more about himself and the world, while simultaneously making change), all while in a creative, quirky format.
I attended a highly diverse school, an experience that has allowed me to realize that this world is comprised of varying complexities in society, in intellect, and in passion. But I want to learn more. I look to Boston University, therefore, in feeding my diverse interests and curiosities, and taking them to new levels of inquisition. Housing students of nearly 50 countries, I am committed to learning and contributing to students of all kinds of ethnicities, skills, talents, and interests in elevating my knowledge of the world around us. Where my college search has led me to believe that dull majors such as biology and chemistry will conquer my future, I sit on the bare edge of chair as I read about BU's diverse 250+ program offerings and plethora of student organizations. I look to the Health and Society major, coincided with American history, in excelling my education of international medicine and health policy. The leadership qualities that I have learned while my time in highschool will allow me to solve issues both at hand, and in the world. Being located in the international domain of Boston, I look to engaging in wide ranging organizational work, such the ASB program, in contributing back to society. I look to BU because of its complex diversity, it's atmosphere of success and passion, and above all, its platform to give me an enriched outlook on the world. Now, If only BU would look to me.

So, why BU? Check out Boston University's site to learn more about what BU can offer you and what you can offer BU - then craft your essay. Check out this very own essay writing link from BU themselves!

Questions about your BU Supplement? Tweet us @collegeessayist with #TCEBU or email us at [email protected]. Need help with your BU supplement for a mentor? We got you! Learn more here! Is BU the right school for you? Well, there's only one way to find out - use TCE's free college match service coming soon!