How To Write The Dartmouth Supplements

Okay, picture this: it’s November. You’re fueled by approximately three gallons of coffee and the faint hope that sleep is something you’ll experience again. Your common app is… well, it’s done-ish. And then you remember. The supplements. The bane of every college applicant’s existence. Specifically, the Dartmouth supplements. I swear, just the name makes me shudder. (Are you shuddering? Good. Misery loves company.)

But hey, deep breaths. We’re in this together. And I’m here to help you conquer those pesky Dartmouth essays. Let’s break them down and make sure you’re putting your best foot forward – even if your best foot is currently wearing mismatched socks and hasn’t seen the light of day in a week.

The Dartmouth Supplements: What are we dealing with?

Dartmouth, bless their intellectual hearts, isn’t content with just knowing your GPA and SAT score. They want to know you. Which means… essays. Multiple essays. gasps dramatically

There are usually two required essays and then a choice of one from a selection of other prompts. Don't assume you know what they are! Make sure you check the official Dartmouth website for the most up-to-date prompts. They love to keep us on our toes, don't they?

Deconstructing the Prompts: Understanding What They're Really Asking

This is the crucial step. Don’t just read the prompt and immediately start brainstorming. Take a beat. Read it again. Then maybe read it a third time. What are they really asking you to reveal about yourself?

Think about what Dartmouth values. They're known for their outdoor program, their emphasis on undergraduate teaching, and their commitment to a close-knit community. How can you showcase qualities that align with these values?

For example, if a prompt asks about a time you failed, they're not just looking for a sob story. They want to see how you handle adversity, what you learned, and how you grew from the experience. Think of it as a "failure to growth" narrative. (Sounds better than just "failure," right?)

Crafting Your Narrative: Authenticity is Key (Seriously!)

Forget trying to be someone you’re not. Dartmouth can sniff out inauthenticity faster than you can say “Ivy League.” Be genuine. Be you. Your quirky, imperfect, beautifully flawed you.

Show, don't tell. This is Writing 101, I know, but it’s especially important here. Instead of saying "I'm a hard worker," describe a specific situation where you demonstrated that work ethic. Paint a picture with your words.

Be specific. Avoid generic statements. The more details you can include, the more memorable your essay will be. Instead of saying "I'm passionate about science," describe a specific scientific project you worked on and why it captivated you.

Find your voice. Let your personality shine through. Are you witty? Are you introspective? Are you slightly sarcastic (like me)? Use your natural voice to connect with the admissions officers.

Brainstorming Techniques: Unleash Your Inner Essay Genius

Stuck? Writer's block got you down? Don't panic. Here are a few brainstorming techniques to kickstart your creativity:

• The "So What?" Game: Ask yourself "So what?" after every sentence you write. Keep asking until you get to the core of why something matters to you.
• Freewriting: Set a timer for 10 minutes and just write. Don't worry about grammar or structure. Just let your thoughts flow.
• Talk to Someone: Sometimes, just talking through your ideas with a friend, family member, or teacher can help you gain clarity.
• Make a List: A list of significant experiences, values, or interests could spark an idea.

Polishing Your Gems: Editing and Proofreading

Once you've written your essays, don't just submit them immediately. Put them aside for a day or two. Then come back to them with fresh eyes. It's incredibly important to get other people to read your work. Fresh eyes always help!

Proofread, proofread, proofread. Typos and grammatical errors are a surefire way to make a bad impression. Use Grammarly, ask a friend to proofread, or hire a professional editor. (Yes, that’s a thing!).

Read it aloud. This is a great way to catch awkward phrasing or sentences that don't flow well. Plus, you’ll sound super smart doing it. adjusts glasses dramatically

Final Thoughts: You've Got This!

Writing the Dartmouth supplements is daunting, but it's also an opportunity to showcase your unique qualities and passions. Be authentic, be specific, and let your personality shine through. And remember to breathe. You’ve got this! Now go forth and write some amazing essays!