Ways to Answer "Why do you want to attend ____"

Applying to College
1

<p>Hey guys, I’m wondering: What are ways to answer the often-asked question of “Why do you want to attend __<strong><em>” or “Why are you interested in _</em></strong>”. I’m especially curious of how you answer that question when you’ve never visited the school.</p>

<p>What resources can one draw upon to answer the question sufficiently without actually visiting the school?</p>

<p>I’m going to try to visit some schools, but I doubt I’ll have the time to visit all of them. Yeah, I didn’t plan out my applications very well and now I’m regretting it. So that’s why I’m asking how you can answer the question of interest when you haven’t visited the school.</p>

2

<p>Try wikipedia. That’s what I did lol.</p>

3

<p>Don’t pick the obvious reasons-since many other students will. This will set you apart. Find unique things about the university.</p>

4

<p>The important thing is to find something in common between the college and you (your personality/academic interests/wishes/hopes/etc.)</p>

<p>Be creative. Don’t say the general stuff (it’s diverse, good academic programs, fun people, etc.)</p>

5

<p>I think the key here is to be specific. I’d also say, if you’re a little worried about your answer, be honest. I had to write this essay for Stanford. In terms of what I was looking for - a certain academic reputation and my idea of a great student body - Stanford didn’t exactly stand out from the crowd of other schools I was looking at. In fact, it was a bit of a stretch because it wasn’t in the city. But I was honest. I talked about the infrastructure Stanford provides for low-income students, and how that would change my educational career. I specifically mentioned certain student groups, certain members of the staff, financial aid programs beyond the CoA, the Haas Center, a newsletter… etc.</p>

6

<p>thanks for the answers</p>

<p>any more?</p>

7

<p>In general, talk about the most idiosyncratic aspect possible.</p>