WRITING THE COLLEGE ADMISSIONS ESSAY FOR NOTRE DAME

 University of Notre Dame Excerpt

by Sarah O'Neill, Coatesville, Supreme Editing

According to the University of Notre Dame admissions (via the website):  


“We want to meet the real you.”


The University of Notre Dame takes the time to explain each prompt and give you  ideas.  

READ: The Notre Dame Writing Section: We Walk You Through Our Essay and Short Answer Prompts


My best advice for choosing which question to respond to is to think about what else you’d like to highlight about yourself in your application. This last response can be the perfect place to tell us something new about yourself or some distinctive aspect of your personal story or passions.   If you are trying and struggling to respond to one of these questions, pick a new one!


Another excellent source- READ CAREFULLY! Write Your Best Essay: Tips from a Notre Dame Admissions Counselor



The types of students admitted consisted of: Students could give a cohesive, well-rounded response, and it was clear that they did research.  Their responses were infused with relevant details, and they demonstrated their commitment to the school while also showcasing how this education and experience will propel them into adulthood. They were able to add diverse perspectives and showed what influenced the person they are today. 



Supplemental Essay Example: 

I started hiking five years ago. At the time, I was having severe back injuries and was prohibited from doing any contact sports. Hiking became my escape from the gloom of immobility. My back healed after surgery, and my tradition of hiking resumed. Sometimes I hike with a group of people, other times alone. Either way, hiking always helps me to be positive and lets me focus on the present.

When hiking I go beyond the reach of my possibility, am fully present, and reassure myself against doubts. Through focusing my body’s movement, I leave my negative self behind and fully enjoy the moment and the people around me. Eventually, I find joy and tranquility in an uncomfortable situation. That is how I adapt to a new environment.

The most uncomfortable transition I ever experienced was when I entered a high school in the US. However, when I started hiking, I started to focus on the present. Soon enough, I started to enjoy my life at school.

My hiking tradition helps me transition during challenging situations. Going on my monthly hike, I remind myself of the obstacles I have gone through and gain the confidence to survive anywhere I go.

by Sarah O'Neill, Coatesville, Supreme Editing

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