University of Michigan supplemental essays 2024

For those of you applying to University of Michigan, read below to see how our team of former admissions officers would answer the supplemental essays:

Essay #1

Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it. (Required for all applicants; minimum 100 words/maximum 300 words)

This question is related to self identity. To help brainstorm, list a few groups, communities, and/or organizations that you feel a strong bond with. With just 300 words to use, spend the majority of time discussing why this particular community is meaningful to you and how it has helped shape your personality and beliefs. Whatever “place” or position you hold within the community, be proud of it. A compelling essay could discuss your workplace community, family and home, or larger ethnic or religious community in a city or town you’re from.

Don’t be afraid to be creative! One AcceptU student talked about the strangers he saw everyday on the subway he rode to and from a university summer research project. Those strangers became, for him, a community – plus we learned about his research interests and saw his creative side as he described each person and imagined what their lives were like.

Essay #2 

Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (Required for all applicants; minimum 100 words /maximum 550 words)

With thousands of new students each year, large public universities do their best to predict how each student will help fill various roles across different undergraduate colleges. To avoid getting lost within the masses, be as specific as possible when articulating your interests and your fit within a particular program. It can be useful to break this question down into two simple parts:

1. Which major(s) and program(s) appeal most to you and why?

2. How will you utilize the university’s resources to allow you to take advantage of the major(s) and program(s) that appeal to you?

Research each program and major (that interest you) at UM. Have you visited campus? If so, describe any interactions with students or faculty within the program of interest. What classes appeal to you within the major(s) of interest? What about other courses, programs and opportunities at UM might you participate in if you enrolled there? Answers to these questions allow admissions officers to connect the dots between your current interests and future goals.