How Many Essays for Reed College on the Common App? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Tricky!)
Alright, future Reedies, let’s talk about the Common App and those pesky essays. You’re probably thinking, “How many essays do I have to write for Reed College?” Well, buckle up, because the answer is a little more complicated than you might think.
The Short Answer:
You’ll write one essay for the Common Application, which you’ll use for all your college applications. But here’s the catch: Reed College has a supplemental essay. That’s right, while the Common App essay is a general “tell us about yourself” deal, Reed wants to hear specifically about you and why you’re a perfect fit for their quirky little community.
The Long Answer: A Deep Dive into the Essay Jungle
So, you’re not only writing a Common App essay, but you also have to craft a unique essay specifically for Reed. Let’s break it down:
1. The Common App Essay (Your Chance to Shine):
- This is your chance to showcase your personality, passions, and experiences. You can choose from a list of prompts, or write your own.
- Think of this essay as a window into your soul. What makes you, you? What stories do you have to tell? What are you passionate about?
- Remember, this essay is going to be read by lots of admissions committees, so make it count!
2. The Reed College Supplemental Essay (Your Time to Get Weird):
- This is where Reed College really gets into its own groove. They want to know: “What would you teach at Reed?”
- It’s not just about the what, but the why. Why would this course be valuable to the Reed community? How would it contribute to the intellectual and cultural life of the college?
- This is your chance to show off your unique perspective and demonstrate your potential to make a real impact at Reed.
Here’s where things get interesting:
- Reed’s supplemental essay is only 500 words long. That’s not a lot of space to convince them you’re a brilliant, quirky, and utterly unique individual.
- They expect you to “explain how the topic would ‘contribute to the Reed community.'” This is where your research comes in. You need to understand Reed’s culture, values, and curriculum to craft an essay that resonates with them.
- You’re not just describing a course; you’re selling an idea. Imagine you’re pitching your course to a group of Reed professors. What would you say? How would you make them excited about it?
Don’t Panic! Here’s How to Tackle the Reed Essay:
- Do your research: Dive deep into Reed’s website. Explore their curriculum, faculty profiles, and student activities. Get a real feel for their unique culture.
- Think outside the box: Forget about the typical “create your own course” essay. Reed is looking for something different, something unexpected.
- Be specific: Don’t just say, “I want to teach a course on the history of rock music.” Tell them why you want to teach that course, how it would contribute to the Reed community, and what specific topics you would cover.
- Show, don’t tell: Let your passion and enthusiasm for the subject shine through. Use vivid language, compelling anecdotes, and real-world examples.
The Reed Essay: It’s Not Just an Essay, It’s a Mission Statement
Your Reed essay is your chance to show them that you’re not just another applicant. You’re someone who can contribute to the vibrant intellectual culture of their community.
Tips for Writing a Killer Reed Essay:
- Start early: Don’t wait until the last minute to tackle this essay. Give yourself plenty of time to research, brainstorm, and refine your ideas.
- Get feedback: Ask a teacher, mentor, or trusted friend to read your essay and give you constructive criticism.
- Be yourself: Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Reed wants to know the real you, so let your personality shine through.
Need More Help?
If you’re still feeling lost in the essay jungle, don’t worry! There are plenty of resources available to help you navigate the application process. Check out online guides, attend college fairs, or reach out to admissions counselors for personalized advice.
And remember, even though applying to college can feel overwhelming, it’s also an exciting time! You’re about to embark on an incredible journey, so take your time, be yourself, and don’t be afraid to get creative!
Remember: If you need further help, answer, or research resources about how many essays for Reed College in Common App you have, don’t hesitate to connect with us at the JobLoving community. We’re here to help you navigate the college application process and make your dream a reality.