#084 How to Write the “Why this Major” College Essay with Lisa Marker Robbins

Flourish Coaching

Aug 22, 2023

In this episode, Lisa discusses:

What supplemental college essays are and what is required of your teen
Most common topics for supplemental college essays.
How your student’s past activities and desired future link to their chosen major and how to communicate this to the colleges.
Strategies for writing multiple versions of the “why this major” essay.

Key Takeaways:

Most supplemental essays are shorter than the 650-word personal statement. The average supplemental essay is a max of 250 words, but it can vary from 25 words to 500 words.
Colleges want to know that your student is making an intentional choice and know that your student is a fit for them.
Your student should include things from their past such as personal experiences, classes, hobbies, community service, extracurricular activities, informational interviews about careers, internships, paid work, and internships that are relevant to their choice of major.
Colleges also want to understand that your student knows the connection between their major and their desired future career.

“When you’re writing an essay, remember, it is quality over quantity, regardless of length.” – Lisa Marker Robbins

Episode References:

Video Resource, How to Find College Supplemental Essays for Applications: www.flourishcoachingco.com/college-essays

Episode #078, 5 Essential Questions to Ask Colleges Before Submitting Applications: www.flourishcoachingco.com/078
Free On Demand Video, How to guide your teen to choose the right major, college, & career: www.flourishcoachingco.com/video

Get Lisa’s Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career…(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training