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Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 5
You Have:
The Requirements: 1 essay of 250 words
Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why, Community
For Syracuse, it’s not just about what you bring to the table, but how you will contribute to their community in a unique way. The Syracuse supplemental essay is asking you to pack a lot of information into 250 words, so we recommend overwriting your first draft and cutting it down once you have all your ideas down on the page. Keep reading for more detailed advice for writing your Syracuse essay!
Syracuse wants to accept students from a wide range of backgrounds who will contribute to their community in a positive way, so tell admissions about a time when you persevered, challenged discrimination, learned a valuable lesson, or were inspired; how will you draw from your experiences to be a meaningful addition to the Syracuse student body? Admissions is giving you a broad range of topics to choose from, so take some time to meditate on your possible response before drafting.
Once you have a topic in mind, be sure to summarize your personal experience in as few words as possible; that way you’ll have plenty of room to discuss what it meant to you, what you took away from it, and how you will apply that lesson or insight to your time at Syracuse. Finally, make sure you include at least a few sentences about why Syracuse is a great fit for you (and vice versa!). Admissions wants to accept thoughtful, reflective, and open-minded individuals to campus, so show them that you fit the bill!
We have been reading Syracuse essays for over twenty years now, so we know a thing or two about the most common mistakes students make. The most common mistakes to avoid are repeating the prompt in your essay (don’t waste your words), trying to sound like an academic (admissions wants to hear your authentic voice!), and using cliches (they’re ineffective and—let’s face it—lazy).
We at College Essay Advisors have been guiding students one-on-one through the essay writing process for the Syracuse supplement for over twenty years. We take a holistic approach to this essay, considering each student’s application package as a whole and identifying their strengths to highlight. Our Advisors accommodate each student’s scheduling needs to virtually brainstorm, draft, and revise winning essays. It’s incredibly important to us that each student’s voice is preserved, and we pride ourselves in helping students to write successful Syracuse essays that differentiate them from similarly qualified applicants. For more information, submit a contact form below or review our one-on-one advising services or list of student acceptances.
Syracuse invites applicants to submit one (1) supplemental essay of 250 words or fewer.
Admissions is looking to learn about you in your own authentic voice. That means writing from a place of truth rather than trying to guess what admissions wants to read or elevating your style to sound more academic than you normally do. Strong supplemental essays will make an impression on admissions and speak to your character, aspirations, and more.
In order to make your Syracuse essays stand out, we recommend giving yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, reflect on your stories, and piece together a cohesive narrative that reveals new information about who you are and what you hope to accomplish without relying on common cliches.
"I will be attending Syracuse next fall. Thank you again for helping me with my essays and reminding me of deadlines. As you know, I'm still working on my time management skills. I'm grateful to you and the whole team at CEA."
– CEA Student, Syracuse University, Class of 2028
"My daughter's Advisor has been wonderful!! She was really able to understand [my daughter] and help her to articulate her ideas in a thoughtful way. Thanks again!"
– CEA Parent, Syracuse University, Class of 2027
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