Writing a “Why Major” essay can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re aiming for a top college. But don’t worry! You’re not alone in feeling the pressure—studies show that nearly two-thirds of high school students report that writing college essays is the most stressful part of applications.
The trick is to be honest and clear and show why you care about your chosen major. Admissions officers want to see what inspires you and how their school can help you achieve your dreams. Think of it this way: they’ve read hundreds of essays, but none of them are written by you. Your unique voice is your superpower—use it to make yours stand out.
- How to Start a “Why Major” Essay
- Why Major Essay Examples
- Mistakes to Avoid in “Why Major” Essays
- How to Answer a “Why Us” College Essay
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
How to Start a “Why Major” Essay
Getting started is the hardest part. Try opening with an anecdote about why you got interested in your major. This makes your essay personal and relatable.
For example, if you’re applying to Harvard for biology, you might write:
“When I was eight, I spent hours studying frogs in my backyard. That curiosity grew into a love for genetics, which I hope to explore further at Harvard through their research in CRISPR technology.”
This grabs attention because it’s personal and shows you’ve done your homework on Harvard’s programs. Your story doesn’t need to be dramatic—just real and meaningful. Even if you fell in love with your major during a boring class, frame it in a way that highlights your curiosity.
If you don’t have a story, you could start with a cool fact or question that connects to your major. Think of it like hooking someone with the first line of a novel—you want them curious and excited to keep reading.
Example: “Did you know that some frogs can survive being frozen solid during winter, only to thaw and hop away in spring? This remarkable adaptability sparked my fascination with biological processes, especially genetics.”
This approach works because it’s intriguing and immediately ties into a passion for biology. A cool fact like this grabs attention and gives you a natural segue into discussing your academic interests.
Why Major Essay Examples
Writing a “Why Major” essay might seem like a huge task, but it’s really just your chance to connect the dots between your experiences, your academic passions, and how a specific school can help you reach your dreams.
When you’re writing your “Why Major” essay, think of it as storytelling. Connect your past experiences to your future ambitions and tie it all together with specifics about the school. The more personal and intentional you make it, the better it’ll stand out!
Example 1: Harvard University
Prompt: Harvard has long recognized the importance of enrolling a diverse student body. How will the life experiences that shape who you are today enable you to contribute to Harvard? (150 words)
Essay:
“I grew up in a multilingual household where French, Wolof, and English were spoken every day. This gave me a unique perspective on communication and connection. This rich mix of languages and cultures sparked my love for storytelling, especially across different mediums. In high school, I launched a podcast to spotlight immigrant narratives, which taught me how to turn diverse perspectives into powerful stories. At Harvard, I can see myself bringing this passion to the International Relations Council, sparking meaningful conversations among students from all backgrounds. I’m also excited about opportunities like the Harvard College Language Center, where I can help promote cultural and linguistic exchange. As a first-generation American, I feel inspired to support other first-gen students and help build a welcoming community. Harvard’s vibrant diversity mirrors the world I want to impact, and I’m eager to share my story while learning from others to help enrich the unique tapestry of voices here.”
Why It Works:
This essay hits all the right notes because it effortlessly ties the student’s personal story to their future at Harvard. Their multilingual upbringing and initiative in launching a podcast highlight their drive and curiosity. Specific Harvard resources like the International Relations Council and the Language Center show they’ve done their homework.
Most importantly, their dedication to inclusivity and mentorship aligns with Harvard’s mission, making the essay authentic and compelling.
Example 2: Columbia University
Prompt: Why are you interested in attending Columbia University? We encourage you to consider the aspect(s) that you find unique and compelling about Columbia. (150 words)
Essay:
“Columbia’s Core Curriculum offers the perfect foundation for my dual passions: literature and global justice. I’m drawn to how the Core fosters connections across disciplines, enabling students to explore works from Homer to Baldwin while tackling modern challenges. The chance to study under professors like Saidiya Hartman, whose exploration of history through narrative aligns with my own aspirations, excites me. Additionally, Columbia’s location in New York City is unmatched. Interning with PEN America last summer showed me the city’s power as a hub for literary activism—a realm I hope to immerse myself in further through Columbia’s literary magazines and the Center for Justice. Columbia’s emphasis on the interplay of ideas and action resonates deeply with me. I envision myself contributing to the campus through dialogue, storytelling, and activism, fully embodying the ethos of in lumine tuo videbimus lumen—in your light, we see the light.”
Why It Works:
This essay shines because it personalizes Columbia’s offerings to the student’s goals. The students show they’ve done their research by linking their interests in literature and justice to the Core Curriculum and faculty like Professor Saidiya Hartman.
They also leverage their past experience with PEN America to connect New York City and Columbia to their career aspirations. The balance of intellectual curiosity and a clear plan for contributing to campus life makes this essay a winner.
Mistakes to Avoid in “Why Major” Essays
Now that you have a benchmark for what makes a good “Why Major” essay, let’s talk about what not to do. Avoiding common pitfalls is just as important as hitting the right notes, so let’s now talk about some mistakes to steer clear of.
1. Being too vague.
Don’t just say, “I like science.” That’s like saying, “I like pizza” without telling us about the cheesy goodness or the crispy crust. Explain what you like and why.
For example, “I love studying ecosystems because I’m fascinated by how every part plays a role, from the tiniest bug to the tallest tree.” Give admissions officers something to picture, not just a bland statement they’ll forget.
2. Skipping research.
Saying “Your school is awesome” is like calling your crush “nice.” Sure, it’s a compliment, but it’s not exactly memorable. You need to show that you know what makes the school special.
Mention specific programs, professors, or opportunities. For example, “I’m excited to take Professor Lee’s course on renewable energy because it aligns perfectly with my interest in sustainable engineering.” Get into the details—it shows you care.
3. Using too much jargon.
Fancy words don’t make you sound smarter; they just make you sound like you swallowed a thesaurus. Admissions officers don’t need a dictionary to understand your essay—but they’ll need one to recover from boredom if your writing feels robotic.
Instead, use clear and natural language. For example, write, “I want to design apps that make healthcare easier for everyone” instead of “My ambition is to innovate disruptive paradigms in digital health ecosystems.”
4. Listing achievements.
Your essay isn’t a highlights reel. If you just list accomplishments, you risk sounding like a robot reading off a checklist. Focus on what motivates you, not just what you’ve done.
For example, instead of saying, “I won a science fair,” explain why the project mattered: “I created a water filtration system to help my community access clean drinking water, and it sparked my passion for environmental engineering.”
5. Jumping around.
Picture this: you’re trying to follow someone’s story, but they keep jumping from one topic to the next. Confusing, right?
Make sure your essay has a flow. Each idea should lead naturally to the next, like chapters in a book. If it feels choppy, imagine explaining it to a friend out loud—you’ll spot where things don’t make sense.
6. Making big claims.
“I’ll change the world!” sounds ambitious, but admissions officers prefer realistic goals. Instead of going over the top, focus on how their school will help you make a meaningful impact.
For example, “I want to use the tools I learn in MIT’s Urban Planning program to design more sustainable cities that improve people’s daily lives.” Keep it big-picture but grounded in reality—and bonus points if you mention how the school plays a role in your plan!
How to Answer a “Why Us” College Essay
A “Why Us” essay isn’t just about your major but the whole school. Talk about things like campus life, special programs, or professors that interest you.
Think of it as answering, “Why this school, out of all the amazing options out there?” The key is to show that you’ve done your homework and aren’t just recycling the same essay for every application. Colleges want to know you see them as unique, not interchangeable.
Brown University’s “Why Us” essay
For example, Brown University’s “Why Us” college essay prompt is:
“Brown’s Open Curriculum allows students to explore broadly while also diving deeply into their academic pursuits. Tell us about any academic interests that excite you, and how you might pursue them at Brown.” (200-250 Words)
You could answer this with:
“Brown’s Open Curriculum feels like it was made for someone like me. I love that I’d have the freedom to combine my passion for neuroscience and creative writing into something uniquely my own. Imagine taking a course like “Narrative Medicine” alongside “The Brain: An Introduction to Neuroscience”—I could connect science and storytelling in exciting and meaningful ways.
Programs like the Engaged Scholars Program let me take what I learn in the classroom and actually use it to solve real-world challenges. I can already picture myself collaborating with professors and classmates who share that same passion for curiosity and creativity.
Brown’s vibrant campus life also excites me to dive in. Participating in writing workshops, joining a neuroscience research team, or just hanging out with friends who challenge me to think differently—there’s so much to look forward to.
The idea of being part of a community that values innovation and pushing boundaries really speaks to me. For me, Brown is where I can truly grow into the person I want to be, both academically and personally, while making a meaningful impact along the way.
See? If you can’t explain your choice to a friend without sounding generic, dig deeper. Check out their website, student blogs, or even social media. Mention clubs, events, or even traditions that excite you and tie them back to your interests. That’s how you’ll make your essay pop.
Dartmouth’s “Why Major” essay
Likewise, you can use this strategy for various “why major” essays like with Dartmouth College, whose essay prompt is:
“As you seek admission to Dartmouth’s Class of 2029, what aspects of the college’s academic program, community, and/or campus environment attract your interest? How is Dartmouth a good fit for you?” (100 Words)
You could answer this with:
“Dartmouth feels like the perfect mix of tight-knit community and big opportunities. I’m drawn to the D-Plan because it lets me balance academics with hands-on experiences like internships and study abroad. I can see myself taking classes like “Environmental Change and Human Health” while working with the Dartmouth Outing Club to explore the outdoors.
The focus on collaboration, both in the classroom and through unique traditions like the First-Year Trips, feels so inviting. Dartmouth is a place where I can connect with people who share my love for learning and adventure while building a future I’m excited about.”
Pro tips for writing your “Why Us” essay for Ivies
See how the examples above aren’t just throwing random facts around? They’re connecting the dots between what makes the school special and what makes you special. It’s like explaining why you and the school would be perfect roommates—you just get each other!
Just keep it real. No need to sound like you swallowed the college website. Write like you’re telling a friend why you’re head over heels for this school. Admissions officers can spot genuine enthusiasm from a mile away. When you’re actually excited about a school, it shows in your writing!
Writing a “Why Us” essay for an Ivy League school is like cooking your favorite meal for a date—you want it to be thoughtful, unique, and just the right mix of flavors. You need to show why the school is perfect for you and how you’ll take advantage of what they offer. Spoiler alert: serving up bland, vague answers is a recipe for disaster!
Here are some quick hacks to make your essay unforgettable:
- Talk about professors. Name-drop professors or their research that excites you. For example, “Dr. Smith’s work on sustainable architecture inspires me to rethink how urban spaces can be greener.”
- Highlight unique programs. Every Ivy League school has something special. At Cornell, for instance, their Cooperative Extension Program connects academics with real-world community service. Mentioning programs like these shows you’ve done your homework.
- Share personal connections. If a campus visit or virtual tour left an impression, say so! For example, “During Dartmouth’s virtual tour, I loved hearing how students and faculty work closely on research.”
- Celebrate traditions. Schools like Harvard have traditions that define their campus culture. If you’re drawn to quirky or historic traditions (like Yale’s singing groups), include that in your essay.
- Think about the location. Don’t overlook geography. UPenn’s urban setting in Philly gives access to internships, while Princeton’s quieter town is perfect for deep thinking.
- Show who you are beyond academics. Clubs, sports, or volunteering can be just as important as academics. Maybe you want to join Columbia’s debate team or Brown’s student-run newspaper. Show how you’ll fit in.
Your “Why Us” essay will go from bland to brilliant by aligning your interests with specific opportunities. Remember, it’s about proving the school isn’t just a good choice for you—it’s the best choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long should a “Why Major” essay be?
Usually 250-500 words. Keep it short, but make every word count.
2. Can I write about more than one major?
Yes, if they’re related. For example, you could connect psychology and neuroscience by talking about how emotions are processed.
3. What if I’m undecided?
Write about the areas you’re curious about and how the school can help you explore them.
4. How much research is enough?
Find three to five specific things about the school that excite you. Be detailed.
5. What tone should I use?
Be friendly but professional. Imagine you’re talking to a teacher you like.
Takeaways
- Start with a story or detail that shows why you care about your major. Make it relatable.
- Be specific about what the school offers. Name programs, professors, or opportunities that excite you.
- Keep your essay clear and focused. Avoid fluff, but don’t be afraid to show your personality.
- Show how you’ll grow at the school and what you’ll bring to their community. Admissions officers love students who want to make an impact.
- If you’re still having trouble answering the question “Why Major” in your essays, you should seek help from a college admissions consultant.
Author
