How to Crush Your “Why This School?” Essay

Are you ready to nail your “Why This School?” essay? The secret to success lies in getting specific—and I mean really specific—about why you want to attend a particular college. Today, we’re using Lafayette College as an example to show you how to connect your personal interests and goals with the programs, clubs, and opportunities at the school. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Dive Deep into Their Programs

First things first, show the school you’ve done your homework. Colleges want to see that you’ve gone beyond the surface-level stuff and understand what makes them unique.

Example for Lafayette:  

If you’re interested in Engineering, Lafayette’s Engineering Division lets you combine liberal arts with technical studies—something you can’t find just anywhere. You could write something like:

"Lafayette’s interdisciplinary approach to engineering, especially the option to combine my interest in environmental studies with hands-on research in the *EXCEL Scholars Program**, aligns perfectly with my goals. I’m excited to collaborate with professors like Dr. Lauren Anderson, whose work in sustainable energy solutions speaks to my passion for renewable energy technologies."*

This shows that you’ve taken time to research not only the program but also a specific professor whose work aligns with your goals.

Step 2: Get Into the Clubs and Organizations

Colleges want to know how you’ll engage in campus life outside the classroom. Find student organizations that excite you, and explain how you’ll get involved.

Example:  

Lafayette has The Marquis Players, a student-run theater group that raises money for charity. If you’re into theater and giving back, you could write something like:

"Lafayette’s vibrant performing arts scene, particularly the *Marquis Players**, excites me because it combines my love for musical theater with my commitment to community service. I can see myself not only performing but also helping organize the annual production to raise funds for local causes, furthering my dedication to giving back."*

Step 3: Mention Facilities and Unique Opportunities

If there’s a specific facility or opportunity that aligns with your goals, call it out. Lafayette’s Rockwell Integrated Sciences Center is perfect for students passionate about research and STEM innovation.

Example:  

"The opportunity to conduct research at the *Rockwell Integrated Sciences Center** is one of the reasons Lafayette is my top choice. The cutting-edge labs and Lafayette’s emphasis on undergraduate research mean I can immediately dive into hands-on projects, exploring my interest in genetic engineering with top-tier resources."*

This is how you connect what the school offers to your long-term goals.

Step 4: Tie It All Back to Your Own Experiences

Your essay needs to connect your personal experiences with what the school offers. This is your chance to show why you’re the right fit.

Example:  

"Having led my high school’s environmental club in organizing beach clean-ups, I’m eager to bring that same energy to Lafayette’s *Sustainability Committee**. I’m particularly excited about contributing to the Eco-Reps Program, where I can continue advocating for eco-friendly initiatives on campus."*

Quick Tips for Getting Specific:

- Program Names: Drop the names of specific programs, clubs, or faculty members that excite you.

- Clubs/Activities: Highlight student organizations or campus initiatives you’d want to join.

- Facilities/Opportunities: Mention unique resources, labs, or centers that align with your goals.

- Your Experience: Tie it all back to what you’ve already done and how Lafayette can help you keep growing.

The bottom line? Do your research, get specific, and craft an essay that shows why you and the school are a perfect match!

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Instruction Sheet: Writing Your “Why This School?” Essay

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Specific in Your Essay

1. Research the School’s Programs

- Spend time on the college’s website (like lafayettecollege.com) and focus on your major or field of interest.

- Look for unique aspects of their curriculum, specific professors, or hands-on opportunities like research or internships.

2. Explore Student Organizations

- Find clubs or groups that match your interests, whether it's in the arts, athletics, or service.

- Explain how you’ll contribute to campus life and why that club is a perfect fit for you.

3. Highlight Facilities and Unique Opportunities

- Look into campus facilities, labs, or centers that will help you reach your academic goals.

- Mention how these resources will help you grow as a student.

4. Connect It Back to Your Own Experiences

- Share your personal background and explain how it aligns with what the school offers.

- Make sure to explain why you are a great fit based on what you’ve already done.

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Quick Checklist for a Successful “Why This School?” Essay:

- Research programs, professors, and clubs that excite you.

- Mention specific resources and opportunities.

- Explain how your experiences match the school’s offerings.

- Avoid general statements—be as specific as possible!

Now, take these steps and make your Why This School? essay stand out!