How To: Resume Admitted to Stanford University for Humanities Sarah O’Neill Coatesville Supreme Editing

 Sarah O’Neill Coatesville Supreme Editing

How to Get Admitted to Stanford for a Humanities Major

Getting accepted into Stanford University’s prestigious humanities programs is a dream for many, but it’s also a challenging journey that requires academic excellence, a compelling personal narrative, and a clear demonstration of passion for the humanities. Unlike technical fields, where clear-cut metrics such as test scores and specific skills are the primary criteria, humanities admissions often hinge on a candidate’s intellectual curiosity, creativity, and their potential to contribute to a diverse intellectual community. Here’s what it takes to stand out and secure a spot in Stanford’s Humanities department.

1. Academic Excellence with Intellectual Breadth

Stanford seeks students who not only excel academically but also demonstrate an intellectual curiosity that extends beyond traditional measures. The admissions team evaluates applicants on their GPA, course rigor, and performance in humanities-related subjects like literature, history, philosophy, and languages. While perfect grades aren’t a guarantee of acceptance, strong performance, particularly in AP or IB humanities courses, helps convey commitment and capability.

Tip: Emphasize any interdisciplinary coursework, such as combining literature with science or philosophy with economics, to showcase a broad intellectual scope. Highlight any significant academic achievements related to the humanities, such as awards, publications, or presentations, especially if they reflect original thought or analysis.

2. A Distinctive and Authentic Personal Narrative

A significant part of Stanford’s admissions process is dedicated to understanding who an applicant is beyond the numbers. Personal statements and supplementary essays are the primary tools here. The goal is to craft a narrative that is honest, revealing, and demonstrates a unique perspective or journey in the humanities.

For example, if a student has a particular love for ancient history and spent summers researching medieval art or manuscripts, they should write about what initially sparked this passion and how it has shaped their worldview. It’s not just about having an interest but showing how it has deeply impacted personal growth or aspirations.

Tip: Use the personal statement to share stories that have defined your journey in the humanities. Essays that reveal a “spark moment” or a significant experience that pushed you to dig deeper into your field can be particularly impactful.

3. Evidence of Passion and Commitment

Stanford’s humanities programs value students who demonstrate a sincere and ongoing engagement with their field. Extracurricular activities, internships, and independent projects all offer opportunities to showcase this commitment. This might include leading a literature club, writing for a literary journal, volunteering at a museum, or conducting research on a historical topic.

Consider organizing or participating in community projects that align with your chosen field. For example, a prospective history major could volunteer for a historical preservation project or a local archive, showing how they’re applying their love of history to make an impact. Consistent involvement and leadership in humanities-oriented activities signal a dedication that goes beyond mere academics.

Tip: Keep a record of your projects and achievements related to the humanities. Use these experiences to provide tangible evidence of your dedication in your application, particularly in your resume or supplementary essays.

4. Exceptional Writing Skills

Strong writing skills are essential for humanities applicants, as essays and written responses are the primary means of communication with the admissions team. Writing samples should showcase clarity, originality, and depth. In many cases, humanities applications are strengthened by eloquent, thought-provoking responses in the Stanford short answer and supplemental essays.

Stanford looks for students who can communicate ideas effectively and thoughtfully. Admissions readers appreciate well-organized, insightful writing that reflects a clear sense of personal voice. Even in short answer questions, crafting responses with attention to detail and creativity is essential.

Tip: Practice your writing well in advance of the application deadline. Revise and refine your personal essays to ensure they’re polished, meaningful, and reflective of who you are. Seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or editors who understand what makes an essay compelling.

5. Recommendations that Highlight Intellectual Curiosity

Recommendation letters play a significant role in conveying your potential as a humanities scholar. Teachers who know you well and can speak to your academic capabilities, intellectual curiosity, and passion for the humanities are ideal choices. Make sure your recommenders are familiar with specific projects or topics you’ve pursued, as these details can add depth to their letters.

Tip: When asking for recommendations, share your goals for studying humanities at Stanford and remind teachers of specific instances where you’ve demonstrated your passion and skills. The more context they have, the better they can advocate for your fit with Stanford’s humanities programs.

6. A Unique Perspective on the Humanities

The humanities cover a broad array of disciplines, from philosophy and linguistics to history and anthropology. Stanford wants applicants who can demonstrate a unique perspective within their chosen field, contributing to the diverse intellectual environment of the campus. This might be an interdisciplinary approach, such as integrating social justice and literature or exploring the psychological aspects of history.

Think about how you can bring a fresh viewpoint to the field of humanities. If you have cultural insights, bilingual abilities, or unique family history, these can be compelling angles in your application. However, even a unique way of seeing the world or analyzing texts — something that goes beyond traditional academic pursuits — can make a lasting impression.

Tip: Reflect on what you personally bring to the field that others may not. Use this in your essays to differentiate your voice and demonstrate how you’ll enrich Stanford’s humanities department.

7. Understanding Stanford’s Unique Humanities Community

Finally, showing an understanding of what makes Stanford’s humanities program unique — and articulating why it’s the right fit for you — is crucial. Research specific professors, courses, or resources that align with your academic and career goals. Mentioning these in your application demonstrates that you’re not only interested in humanities but also specifically drawn to Stanford’s approach.

Stanford’s Center for the Humanities, interdisciplinary opportunities, and resources for creative and research projects make it an attractive choice for many applicants. Make sure to mention why these offerings are meaningful to you and how they fit your vision for your future.

Tip: When preparing your application, spend time exploring the specifics of Stanford’s humanities programs. Attend online information sessions or reach out to current students or faculty if possible to gain insights that you can reference in your essays.

Final Thoughts

Applying to Stanford for a humanities major requires a unique combination of academic excellence, a compelling personal narrative, and a demonstrated commitment to your chosen field. Successful applicants go beyond the basic qualifications to show how they’ll enrich the humanities community at Stanford and contribute fresh perspectives. By carefully crafting your story, showcasing your passion, and connecting your goals to Stanford’s values and resources, you’ll stand out as a strong candidate.

SAMPLE REAL RESUME ADMITTED

Education

— — — — — — — -September 2019 — Present

GPA: Unweighted 4.0

SAT: 1560

AP: World History, 5
English Language & Composition, 5

PSAT: 1500, Selection Index Score 224

Awards

International 1st Place | 2022 National History Day

• Named National Endowment for the Humanities Scholar, received $1000 scholarship
• Paper chosen to be showcased by the White House Historical Association
• Placed 2nd in State, placed 1st in Region
• Paper titled “A — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

High Commendation | 2021 International John Locke Essay Competition

• Essay addressed prompt “Is the Construct of Gender or Harmful or Beneficial to Humanity Throughout History?”

Awards | 2020 National History Day

• 4th in — — — State, won 2 state-level special awards, 2nd in — —
• Paper titled “ — — — — — — — — — — -

Gold Key | 2022 Scholastic Arts & Writing Competition

• Personal Essay won Gold Key
• Won 2 Honorable Mentions (Personal Essay & Short Story)

Outstanding Nonfiction | The Apprentice Writer Competition Grade 11

• Personal essay won first place out of all nonfiction entries, received $200 prize
• Competition hosted by the Writers Institute of Susquehanna University

Publications | Various Literary Magazines

• 2 works published in Apprentice Writer (2022)
• 1 work published in Élan Magazine (2022)
• 1 work published in Interstellar Literary Review (2021)

Leadership

Managing Editor | — — — (school paper) Grade 12

• In charge of all staff communications
• Mentored new staff
• Expanded guest contribution program to include multimedia
• Edited all issues

Copy Editor | Tatler Grade 11

• Established and led the guest contribution program
• Copy edited all issues
• Served as writer in grade 10

Vice EIC | The Laurel Journal of Humanities Grade 11–12

• Edited literary pieces and research papers
• Designed and copy edited issues
• Mentored the editorial staff

Lead Role | Fall Play Grade 11

• Played — — — — — — — , which follows — — — — — experience and the thoughts and occurrences that contribute to her struggles with mental health, self-expression, and healing
• Led post-play discussions and Q&A

Director | One-Act Play Grade 10

• Directed students in a one-act play
• Play rehearsed & performed over Zoom
• Edited & produced the final video

Leader | Bird Club Grade 11–12

• Led school workshop informing students on the consequence and prevention of bird collisions
• Planned and led May Day fundraiser

Work Experience

Intern | Professor — — — — — — — Grade 11

• 3-week-long summer internship with — — — — — — University clinical law professor

Guide | Immigrants Grade 9–12

• Helped immigrants in Seattle rent house, including making advertisements, receiving tenants during house tours, revising leases, and translating
• Helped international students with English and schoolwork

Shadow | 2019 — — — — — — Election Grade 9

• Shadowed Candidate — — — — -during door-to-door campaigning
• Attended public candidate debates and weekly planning meetings
• Designed and organized flyers

Volunteer Service

Chinese Tutor | — — — — Grade 10–12

• Tutored low-income students
• Met with student twice a week for 1 hour each

Reading Tutor | Literacy Initiative Grade 10

• Met with student once a week for 1 hour

Volunteer | Food Bank Grade 10

• Made well-wish cards to be distributed with food packages

Other Extracurriculars

JV | Cross Country Grade 9–12

• Attended daily 1.5-to-2-hour long practices and regional races during the fall season

Member | Model UN Club Grade 9–10

• Attended various conferences in — — — — — — State

Sarah O’Neill Coatesville Supreme Editing