I’m applying to Scripps College and their essay prompt is “What about Scripps College has inspired you to apply?” I am interested in their college because they are a women’s college that aims to teach women the gift of critical thinking to empower them in society.
I am Catholic and during my Confirmation (where we choose a patron saint) I chose St. Angela Merici because she founded an organization that educated poor young girls and women. I thought that this might be a nice link (as you can see, I’m really interested in education for women) but I’m slightly unsure about writing about religion in my essay.
It wouldn’t make up the whole body because the essay is 200 words maximum, but I do think that referencing it would be interesting. On the other hand, I heard that Scripps is very liberal and I don’t know how this would affect their perceptions of my essay with religion in it.
I do really want to mention it because religion is important to me and I think it would match with Scripps’ mission well, but I would also like other people’s opinions.
I would really appreciate your advice and thank you in advance!
Religion is important to you. If writing about religion would make your essay unacceptable, then perhaps the school isn’t a great fit.
BUT-- you only have 200 words. You’ve got to tread very carefully. The point here is to give them a reason to say yes. So you’ve got to use those 200 words to make your point: that they enable women by teaching them critical thinking, and that it’s always been an interest to you.
Sure, mention your Confirmation name and the reason behind it. But don’t make it the focus of your essay. Not because there’s anything wrong with it (I’m Catholic too, teach in a Catholic school, and next week my son is a Sponsor for a neighbor.) But don’t make it the focus because that’s not the topic. The topic is Why Scripps?? Make sure that you use those 200 words to answer that question.
Thank you very much for this reply. I completely agree that I should only mention it as an interesting topic but concentrate my essay on wider things. Right now, I’ve written two sentences on it, and I think it makes my essay a bit more interesting!
And your first two sentences really changed my way of thinking. I now truly believe that if writing about religion will lower my chances of admission, I wouldn’t like the school if I got admitted anyway. Religion is really important to me and I shouldn’t sacrifice or hide that just to get into a college. Thank you for your amazing advice and for providing me with a clear set of priorities!
I think bjkmom gave good advice and I think the connection you are making in your essay will work.
And just an FYI…While Scripps is not a religious school there are a variety of religious groups and church services on campus including a Catholic group and mass. You will find others that share your values.
