Seattle University 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Guide

Seattle University 2024-25 Application Essay Question Explanations 

The Requirements: 1 or 2 Optional Essay of 250-500 words

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why, Diversity

Located in one of the world’s top cities for technology and innovation and deeply rooted in 500 years of Jesuit tradition, a Seattle University education is innovative, rigorous, global and holistic. We encourage students to challenge preconceived notions, reflect before they react, and strive for the greater good. What is it that drew you to apply to Seattle University? Where do you hope a Seattle University education will take you?

Ah, the classic Why Essay. Seattle wants to know that you’ve thoughtfully chosen them from the long list of other options out there. Did you visit campus and fall in love with the city? Are you from NorCal and it’s not too far (but just far enough) from home? Maybe you’ve scoured their course offerings and already put together a plan for your first year. There are so many different reasons students choose Seattle, and admissions wants to know yours. Take note of the keywords in the first two sentences and see if you can weave those into your essay. Were you drawn to Seattle’s Jesuit history because you were raised Catholic? Are you excited to undertake rigorous, innovative research in the Summer Undergraduate Research program? Three things to keep in mind when writing this essay: details, details, details. (Did we mention details?) The more specific you can get when illustrating your passion for Seattle, the better admissions will be able to picture you on their campus, thriving in student life. 

At Seattle University we are inspired by the diversity of our campus community and are committed to a culture where equity, inclusion, and belonging are hallmarks of who we are.  Tell us about an experience you have had involving equity, inclusion, or belonging—whether through celebration, inspiration, challenge, or adversity—and why it was meaningful to you and how it would demonstrate your unique ability to contribute to the University.

This is a classic Diversity Essay, through and through. In this particular instance, the question emphasizes equity, inclusion, and belonging. Admissions officers want to see a story of personal growth, a time when you worked with someone different from yourself, stood up for yourself and others, or had your perspective changed. Maybe you prepared and delivered a presentation to your school leadership to convince them to officially celebrate Pride Month. Perhaps a new student joined your class halfway through junior year, and you took them under your wing so they didn’t feel alone. You’ll want to draw a connection between that experience and how you will bring something of value to the Seattle community. Maybe your grandma introduced you to Noh Theater when you visited her in Japan, and you plan to found a club at Seattle to champion Japanese stagecraft. No matter your starting point, be sure you tell a clear story with a beginning, middle, and end that illustrates what this experience meant to you and demonstrates your commitment to creating inclusive, equitable environments.