paul tulane essay prompts

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Tulane Supplemental Essays 2023-24 – Prompts and Tips

September 11, 2023

If you blinked at some point during the 2010s, you may have missed Tulane’s meteoric rise in selectivity that resulted in a 13% acceptance rate for the Class of 2027. However, today, this mid-size private research university in New Orleans is among the most selective schools in the country. The average incoming freshman possesses 95th percentile standardized test scores and a strong academic transcript. This brings us to the topic of this blog — the Tulane supplemental essays for 2023-24.

(Want to learn more about How to Get Into Tulane? Visit our blog entitled:  How to Get Into Tulane University: Admissions Data and Strategies  for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

When applying to an institution like Tulane that rejects nine of every ten applicants, you’ll need to put maximum effort into every area of the application, including the supplemental essay. Below is Tulane University’s supplemental prompt for the 2023-24 admissions cycle along with our advice for composing a winning essay.

Tulane Supplemental Essay 2023-24

Describe why you are interested in joining the Tulane community. Consider your experiences, talents, and values to illustrate what you would contribute to the Tulane community if admitted.

This statement should be 250 words at most; however, it is neither necessary nor expected that you reach this maximum length. We strongly encourage you to focus on content and efficiency rather than word count. While submitting this prompt is optional, we recommend that all applicants do so.

Tulane is inviting you to share more about your experiences, talents, and/or values through the lens of how that will impact your experience at the university. Take note of the wide-open nature of this prompt. You are essentially invited to talk about any of the following topics:

Tulane Supplemental Essays (Continued)

• A perspective/value you hold
• An experience/challenge you had
• A community you belong to
• Your cultural background
• Your religious background
• Your family background
• Your sexual orientation or gender identity
• A particular talent/skill

Although this prompt’s open floor plan may feel daunting, a good tactic is to first consider what has already been communicated within your Common App personal statement and activities list. What important aspect(s) of yourself have not been shared (or sufficiently discussed)?

You’ll then need to discuss how your experiences, talents, and/or values will influence your distinct contributions to Tulane’s community. Further, you’ll need to explain why you’re interested in joining that community in particular. We’d recommend being as specific as possible.

For example, given your visual arts background, perhaps you’re excited about contributing to and learning within Tulane’s thriving arts scene, including the NOLA Through Visual Culture interdisciplinary experience course and Tulane Art Club . Or, perhaps your experience fighting food insecurity in your community has made you interested in Tulane’s Food Recovery Network, and you hope to contribute to Tulane’s community service-centric culture and values .

To that end, be sure you address how you will take advantage of Tulane’s immense resources both inside and/or outside of the classroom by citing specific academic programs , professors , research opportunities , service learning , study abroad programs , student-run organizations , etc.

How important are the Tulane supplemental essays?

Tulane lists four factors as being “very important” to the admissions committee: GPA, standardized test scores, class rank, and the rigor of your secondary school record. The Common App and supplemental essays are “important”.

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How to Ace the Tulane University Supplemental Essays: 2023-2024

Are you hoping to be part of the next class of Green Wave at Tulane University? Look no further, because in this blog post, we're going to guide you on how to best approach the Tulane University supplemental essays. These essays give you the opportunity to show the admissions officers why you're a perfect fit for Tulane.

1. Why Tulane? (50-800 words)

This question is a classic when it comes to college applications. The admissions officers want to know why you're interested in Tulane specifically. Make sure to dive into your specific academic, extracurricular, and community interests. How does Tulane meet these interests better than other schools?

Since I was young, I've been intrigued by environmental science. When researching universities, Tulane immediately stood out due to its interdisciplinary Environmental Science program. This program's blend of the physical and social sciences is exactly what I'm looking for. I'm also excited about the opportunities for hands-on fieldwork in the Gulf Coast region. Tulane's location in New Orleans, a city on the frontline of environmental issues, provides an ideal setting for my studies. Outside the classroom, I’m looking forward to engaging with the Green Club to contribute to local sustainability efforts. In short, Tulane provides the ideal environment for me to explore my passion and make a meaningful impact.

2. Tulane's Values (50-800 words)

This prompt asks you to reflect on Tulane's values, particularly its commitment to diversity and inclusion, and how they align with your own. Consider a personal anecdote or experience that illustrates your commitment to these values.

Growing up in a multicultural household, I've always cherished diversity and the different perspectives it brings. I'm particularly drawn to Tulane's commitment to diversity and inclusion. One instance when I had the opportunity to engage with diversity was when I volunteered at a local community center, tutoring children from diverse backgrounds. This experience enriched my understanding of different cultures and made me appreciate the value of an inclusive society. At Tulane, I hope to contribute to this commitment by getting involved with the Center for Public Service, utilizing my tutoring experience to give back to the New Orleans community.

3. The Optional Essay

While this essay is technically optional, we strongly advise you to write it. This prompt gives you an opportunity to speak more about yourself, which is always beneficial in helping admissions officers get a fuller picture of who you are. Remember, every essay is a chance to show a different side of you!

My love for music started at a young age when I picked up my first guitar. Over the years, music has become a way for me to express my feelings and connect with others. It was a lifeline during difficult times and a source of joy during happy ones. I believe that it’s these personal passions that shape us, and at Tulane, I look forward to sharing my love for music, perhaps by participating in the Music Rising program or joining a student band.

Short Answer Questions (50 words)

These short answer questions might seem simple, but they require a thoughtful response. Remember, you only have 50 words, so you need to be concise and straightforward.

Writing the Essays

When you approach these prompts, remember to be specific. Concrete examples are always more impactful than vague statements. Make sure to do your research on Tulane and refer to specific courses, professors, clubs, or community initiatives that excite you. This shows the admissions committee that you have a genuine interest in Tulane and are familiar with what it has to offer.

Reflect on your personal experiences, achievements, and challenges. The admissions officers want to get to know you , so don’t shy away from adding personal touches or stories to your essays.

Finally, always keep the values of Tulane in mind. The college is known for its commitment to community service, global perspective, and celebration of diversity and inclusion. If these are values that resonate with you, make sure to highlight this in your essays.

Who or what inspires you? The courage and resilience of Malala Yousafzai inspires me. Her unwavering commitment to education rights, despite facing extreme adversity, motivates me to fight for social justice issues in my community.

Describe a community that you belong to. I belong to a community of book lovers in my neighborhood. We meet monthly to discuss a chosen book, share insights, and broaden our perspectives. This community nurtures my love for literature and fosters close-knit bonds among us.

Remember, these essays are your opportunity to stand out from the rest of the applicants and showcase your fit for Tulane University. Take your time, reflect on the prompts, and make sure to proofread before you hit submit. Best of luck, and Roll Wave!

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Understanding The Paul Tulane Award: A Comprehensive Guide

By Eric Eng

The Paul Tulane Award is a prestigious merit scholarship from Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is named after the university’s founder, Paul Tulane. It is awarded to a select group of incoming first-year students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to their community. Recipients of the scholarship will receive a full-tuition scholarship, renewable for four years.

Understanding the Paul Tulane Award is crucial for students interested in attending Tulane University and seeking ways to finance their education. The scholarship is highly competitive and offers a significant financial benefit to its recipients. Knowing the criteria for eligibility and the application process can help prospective students prepare and increase their chances of receiving the award.

Additionally, understanding the values and goals of the Paul Tulane Award can help students align their academic and personal achievements with the mission of Tulane University.

The purpose of this blog post is to provide a comprehensive guide to the Paul Tulane Award. This guide will cover everything from the background and history of the award, the eligibility criteria and application process, as well as tips for winning the scholarship.

By the end of this post, readers should better understand what the Paul Tulane Award is, how to apply for it, and what it takes to be a competitive applicant.

Whether you are a high school student preparing to apply to college or a current college student exploring scholarship opportunities, this post will provide valuable insights and advice on the scholarship program.

What is the Paul Tulane Award?

What is the Paul Tulane Award? The Paul Tulane Award is typically granted to students in the top 5 percent of their class and with a rigorous academic background with advanced placement courses and honors. These students also have a remarkable record of extracurricular activities and score highly on college admission tests.

The scholarship covers full tuition and is renewable for up to four years, with the exception of students in the five-year accredited professional program track in Architecture, who may have the award renewed for five years. To maintain the scholarship, the student must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.00 and be continuously enrolled as an undergraduate in a Newcomb-Tulane College school.

However, it’s important to note that students cannot receive a Paul Tulane Award in conjunction with any other Tulane merit scholarship, ROTC scholarship, Faculty-Staff Tuition Waiver, or Tuition Exchange Scholarship. Nonetheless, they may combine the award with a partial athletic scholarship. Additionally, students who receive the award may be eligible for need-based aid.

It’s worth noting that students who are found to have violated the Code of Student Conduct or Code of Academic Conduct will forfeit all remaining portions of the scholarship program that they have been offered.

History of the Paul Tulane Award

The award is named after Paul Tulane, a wealthy philanthropist who founded Tulane University in 1834. Through the Paul Tulane Award, Tulane University seeks to honor his legacy by supporting outstanding students who embody the same spirit of generosity and dedication to their community.

It was established in 1989 by the Board of Administrators of Tulane University. However, the scholarship’s historical roots can be traced back to the university’s founding. Paul Tulane, a wealthy businessman and philanthropist, donated land and funds to Louisiana in 1882 to establish a university in New Orleans. The state accepted his offer, and Tulane University opened its doors to students in 1884.

Over the years, Tulane University has grown into a top-tier research institution known for its academic excellence, commitment to community engagement, and innovative research programs. The scholarship was created to attract the best and brightest students to the university and to support their academic and personal growth during their time at Tulane.

Since its inception, the scholarship has helped hundreds of students achieve their academic and career goals while also contributing to the vibrant and diverse community at Tulane University. Today, the Paul Tulane Award remains one of the country’s most prestigious and sought-after scholarships. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of its namesake, Paul Tulane.

What are the benefits of receiving the Paul Tulane Award?

What are the benefits of receiving the Paul Tulane Award? The Paul Tulane Award offers many benefits to its recipients. The most significant benefit is a full-tuition scholarship for four years of undergraduate study at Tulane University. This means recipients do not have to worry about paying tuition, which can be a major financial burden for many students and families.

Beyond the financial benefits, the scholarship program also provides personal and academic growth opportunities. Recipients are recognized for their outstanding achievements and leadership potential and are encouraged to take an active role in shaping the Tulane community.

They are given access to exclusive programs and resources, such as academic advising, mentoring, and networking opportunities with alumni and industry leaders.

Finally, winning the scholarship can be a significant accomplishment to include on a student’s resume or college application. It can open doors to other prestigious scholarships and opportunities in the future. Overall, the Paul Tulane Award offers a unique and valuable opportunity for students to pursue their academic and personal goals while also contributing to the Tulane community and positively impacting the world beyond.

How to apply for the Paul Tulane Award?

How to apply for the Paul Tulane Award? The application process for the Paul Tulane Award is straightforward, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here is an overview of the application process:

Submit your application to Tulane University: To be considered for the scholarship program, you must first apply to Tulane University through the Common Application or Tulane’s online application portal. You should submit your application by the early action or regular decision deadline.

Submit additional materials: In addition to your application, you must submit several supplemental materials to be considered for the Paul Tulane Award. These materials may include:

• Transcript:  Your high school transcript should demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
• Test scores:  You will need to submit official SAT or ACT scores. While no minimum score is required, competitive applicants typically have scores in the top 5-10% nationally.
• Essay:  You must submit a 500-750 word essay on one of several prompts provided by Tulane University. The essay should showcase your writing ability, intellectual curiosity, and creativity.
• Resume:  You should submit a comprehensive resume highlighting your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and community involvement.
• Letter(s) of recommendation:  You may submit up to three letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, coaches, or other adults who can speak to your academic and personal achievements. These letters should highlight your strengths and accomplishments and provide insights into your character and potential.
• Personal statement:  If you are selected as a finalist for the program, you will be asked to complete a personal statement outlining your future goals and aspirations. This statement should demonstrate your passion for your academic and personal goals and explain how winning the scholarship will help you achieve those goals.

Complete the scholarship application: If selected as a finalist for the Paul Tulane Award, you will be asked to complete a separate application. This application will require additional essays, letters of recommendation , and a personal statement.

Overall, the application process for the Paul Tulane Award is rigorous, but it offers a unique opportunity to demonstrate your academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to your community. By carefully preparing your application materials and showcasing your achievements, you can increase your chances of winning this prestigious scholarship.

Timeline for application submission

The timeline for submitting your application for the Paul Tulane Award is the same as the regular application deadline for Tulane University. You can apply through the Common Application or Tulane’s online application portal.

You should submit your application and all required materials well before the deadline to ensure that your application is complete and receives full consideration. Keep in mind that the scholarship program is highly competitive, and the scholarship committee will consider all complete applications before making a final decision.

Tips for completing the application

Here are some tips to help you complete your application for the Paul Tulane Award:

Start early:  The application process for the Paul Tulane Award can be time-consuming, so it’s essential to start early and give yourself plenty of time to complete all required materials.

Focus on academic excellence:  The Paul Tulane Award is a merit-based scholarship, so it’s vital to showcase your academic achievements throughout your high school career. Make sure to highlight your best grades and academic honors.

Demonstrate leadership potential: The scholarship committee is looking for students who have the potential to make a positive impact on the Tulane community and the world beyond. Highlight your leadership experience and involvement in extracurricular activities that showcase your potential.

Write a compelling essay: The essay is an important part of the application process and should demonstrate your writing ability, creativity, and intellectual curiosity. Take the time to write a thoughtful, well-crafted essay showcasing your personality and interests.

Tailor your resume to the scholarship:  Your resume should be tailored to the requirements of the Paul Tulane Award. Ensure you include information about your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and community involvement.

Get feedback on your application:  Have someone you trust to review your application materials and provide feedback. This could be a teacher, counselor, or family member. Make sure to incorporate their suggestions to improve your application.

By following these tips and carefully preparing your application materials, you can increase your chances of being selected as a finalist for the Paul Tulane Award. Remember to focus on your academic and personal goals and showcase your achievements and potential throughout your application.

How are recipients selected for Paul Tulane Award?

How are recipients selected for Paul Tulane Award? The selection process for the Paul Tulane Award is highly competitive, and the scholarship committee uses a comprehensive review process to select the most outstanding applicants. Here are the key factors that are considered in the selection process:

Academic excellence:  The scholarship committee looks for applicants who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement throughout their high school careers. This includes a strong GPA and excellent standardized test scores.

Leadership potential:  The scholarship committee seeks students who have the potential to make a positive impact on the Tulane community and the world beyond. This includes leadership experience, extracurricular involvement, and community service.

Personal achievements:  The scholarship committee looks for applicants who have overcome challenges, pursued unique interests, and demonstrated creativity and innovation in their personal and academic endeavors.

Essay and personal statement:  The essay and personal statement are important components of the application, as they provide insight into the applicant’s personality, goals, and aspirations. The scholarship committee looks for essays that are well-crafted, thoughtful, and demonstrate an evident passion for academic and personal growth.

Recommendations:  Letters of recommendation are an important part of the selection process, as they provide an outside perspective on the applicant’s achievements and potential. The scholarship committee looks for detailed and specific recommendations that provide insights into the applicant’s character and accomplishments.

Overall, the selection process for the Paul Tulane Award is designed to identify the most outstanding applicants who have the potential to make a significant impact on the Tulane community and beyond. By carefully preparing your application materials and demonstrating your academic excellence, leadership potential, and personal achievements, you can increase your chances of being selected as a finalist for this prestigious scholarship.

Tips for winning the Paul Tulane Award

Receiving the Paul Tulane Award is a significant achievement and requires careful preparation and attention to detail throughout the application process. To help future applicants increase their chances of success, past recipients of the program offer the following advice:

Be authentic:  Past recipients emphasize the importance of being true to yourself throughout the application process. Be honest about your strengths and weaknesses, and showcase your unique personality and interests in your essay and personal statement.

Demonstrate leadership potential: The scholarship committee is looking for applicants who have the potential to make a positive impact on the Tulane community and the world beyond. Demonstrate your leadership potential by highlighting your involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, and other leadership roles.

Tailor your application to Tulane:  The scholarship committee is looking for applicants who are a good fit for Tulane University, both academically and personally. Research the university and its values, and tailor your application materials to showcase your fit with the university.

Showcase your academic achievements: The Paul Tulane Award is a merit-based scholarship, so it’s important to showcase your academic excellence throughout your high school career. Highlight your best grades and academic honors, and take challenging courses in areas of interest.

Importance of showcasing your achievements

One of the key factors in winning the Paul Tulane Award is showcasing your achievements throughout your high school career. This includes academic achievements, leadership potential, and personal accomplishments. Here’s why showcasing your achievements is so important:

Demonstrates your potential: The scholarship committee is looking for applicants who have the potential to make a positive impact on the Tulane community and the world beyond. By showcasing your academic, leadership, and personal achievements, you demonstrate your potential to make a difference in the world.

Sets you apart from other applicants: The scholarship program is highly competitive, and many qualified applicants are vying for the scholarship. By showcasing your achievements, you set yourself apart from other applicants and demonstrate why you are the best fit for the scholarship.

Shows your dedication: Winning the scholarship is a significant accomplishment requiring dedication and hard work. You demonstrate your commitment to academic excellence, leadership potential, and personal growth by showcasing your achievements.

Highlights your strengths: Every applicant has unique strengths and accomplishments, and showcasing these strengths can help you stand out. By highlighting your strengths and achievements, you demonstrate why you are the best fit for the scholarship and deserve recognition for your accomplishments.

The Paul Tulane Award is a prestigious scholarship that recognizes outstanding students who have the potential to make a positive impact on the world. Winning the scholarship is a significant accomplishment and can provide recipients with various benefits, including financial support, academic opportunities, and a vibrant community of scholars and leaders.

Tulane University is committed to academic excellence, community service, and social responsibility, and the Paul Tulane Award reflects these values by recognizing students who share these commitments.

If you are a high-achieving student with a strong academic record, leadership potential, and a commitment to community service, we encourage you to apply for the Paul Tulane Award. The scholarship provides a unique opportunity to join a community of scholars and leaders at one of the nation’s top research universities.

By carefully preparing your application materials and demonstrating your fit with Tulane University, you can increase your chances of success in this highly competitive scholarship competition.

If you’re set on getting into a world-class college but aren’t sure how to make it happen, we can help!  AdmissionSight  is a leading college entrance expert with over a decade of experience helping students just like you get into the schools of their dreams.

At AdmissionSight, we focus on offering a wide range of services, all aimed at helping students perfect their applications to catch the attention of admissions officers.  Contact  us today to schedule a free consultation to learn more about what we offer.

Want to assess your chances of admission? Take our FREE chances calculator today!

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3 Tips for Writing a Stand-Out Why Tulane Essay

College Essays

If you're applying to Tulane University, you can choose to answer the Why Tulane optional statement as part of your application. The Why Tulane supplement essay asks you to explain why you want to attend Tulane.

In this article, we'll talk about what the Why Tulane application is, whether you should answer it, and how to write a successful essay that'll help increase your chances of admission.

The Why Tulane Essay Prompt

The Why Tulane supplement essay is straightforward:

Please describe why you are interested in attending Tulane University (optional) (50-500 words).

See? Straight to the point.

While the instructions are simple, the wide range of word count and relatively open-ended prompt make the Why Tulane essay more difficult than it initially seems. The Common App prompt states, "We strongly encourage you to focus on content and efficiency rather than word count. While submitting this prompt is optional, we recommend that all applicants do so."

In other words, you'll need to put some serious effort into your essay in order to stand out as an applicant.

Should I Write the Why Tulane Supplement Essay?

Looking at the Why Tulane application essay, you might be wondering if you even need to write the essay in the first place. After all, the prompt does say "optional".

While that's true, it would be a huge mistake to not write your Why Tulane application essay. This essay is a great opportunity to a) show off any interests and talents you have that aren't immediately apparent on the rest of your application and b) demonstrate why Tulane is a great fit for you and vice versa. The Tulane supplement essay is your chance to prove that you belong on Tulane's New Orleans campus—don't forgo it.

What Is the Purpose of the Why Tulane Essay?

Colleges like Tulane want to see that you really want to attend their school. Applicants who love their school are more likely to be active and happy students and later, active and happy alumni. Your essay should show the admissions committee that you really love Tulane, which will make them feel more confident that you'll be a great addition to the campus. Applicants that really want to attend a school are also more likely to enroll, meaning that Tulane's rate of enrollment will be higher.

Similarly, Tulane wants to make sure you know and value what they offer, and they also want to assess how you'll take advantage of the many opportunities on Tulane's campus to further your academic and professional career.

This essay is a great opportunity for the admissions committee to weed out students who haven't done their research on Tulane or really don't care about attending.

What Should I Write About in My Why Tulane Application Essay?

Your Why Tulane essay is your chance to express to the admissions committee why you want to attend Tulane. What made you apply to this school over any of the thousands of others you could have applied to?

Your Why Tulane application essay should be personal. The admissions committee doesn't want to read a cookie-cutter statement that could be written by any student about any school. Your paper should read as uniquely about you and uniquely about Tulane. With that in mind, here are three ideas for what you can write about for your Why Tulane essay.

#1: What Resonated With You When You Visited Tulane

If you made it down to New Orleans to visit Tulane, you should tell a specific story about what resonated with you on your campus trip. You could talk about a class that you sat in on or an experience you had with a tour guide. You could discuss visiting a local restaurant or engaging with New Orleans culture.

The Tulane admissions committee wants to hear about what stuck with you—and generic, bland answers will stand out as insincere. This essay isn't about why you want to attend college—it's about why you want to attend Tulane. Pick experiences that could only happen at Tulane, not anywhere else.

#2: What Makes Tulane a Great Match With Your Past and Your Future

You can use your Why Tulane essay to expand on your interests and passions as a student and person. Tie those interests back to Tulane itself to show why Tulane is the right school for you.

Tulane places a large emphasis on community service, so if you have experience doing community service in your hometown or plan to make that a large part of your life at college, this essay is a great opportunity to talk about that passion. If you want to study a specific field, like public health, that Tulane specializes in, the Why Tulane essay is the place to highlight that. Use this essay to describe how attending Tulane fits in with your plans. Doing so will help show the admissions committee that you plan to make the most out of your time on campus.

#3: Experiences You've Had With Current or Former Students

Tulane admissions officer Jeff Schiffman recommends name-dropping current or former Tulane students to explain why you're interested in attending the university . According to Schiffman, your reasons don't have to be particularly highbrow or academically-minded. You might just have noticed some awesome Instagram posts from a friend of a friend or heard great things from your second cousin. However you have the connection, use the Why Tulane essay to prove your interest in attending Tulane.

Tips for Writing an Amazing Why Tulane Essay

Writing a strong Why Tulane application essay isn't just about picking the right topic. You need to make sure your essay is the best possible example of your work in order to wow the admissions committee. Follow these three tips for writing an amazing Tulane application essay.

#1: Make Your Work Tulane-Specific

Nothing about your Why Tulane essay should be generic or impersonal. The more specific you can be when answering this prompt, the better. Don't say Tulane has great academics, caring professors, and an interesting student body. Tulane knows that already—it doesn't need you to tell its admissions officers that.

Everything you write about in your Why Tulane essay should be specific to Tulane—from the names of the professors and the courses to the feeling you had while visiting the campus. The more authentic you are, the more your passion for Tulane will stand out.

#2: Do Your Research

The best way to make your Why Tulane essay specific to Tulane is to do your research about the school. If you can, visit the campus to get a feel for its student body and on-campus life. If you can't, spend time perusing the school's website and try to speak with current or former students. The more you know about Tulane, the more convincingly you'll be able to write that Tulane is the best school for you to attend.

You should get an idea for the different clubs and activities that you'd like to participate in. You can find this information on the school's website. It can also be worthwhile to schedule a meeting with a professor, especially if you have a particular area of study that you're extremely interested in.

#3: Proofread and Polish Your Essay

Your Tulane essay should be the strongest example of your work possible. Before you turn in your application, make sure to edit and proofread your essays.

Your work should be free of spelling and grammar errors. Make sure to run your essays through a spelling and grammar check before you submit.

It's a good idea to have someone else read your "Why Tulane" essay, too. You can seek a second opinion on your work from a parent, teacher, or friend. Ask them whether your work represents you as a student and person. Have them check and make sure you haven't missed any small writing errors. Having a second opinion will help your work be the best it possibly can be.

The Why Tulane supplement essay is your opportunity to show why you want to attend Tulane University.

The Why Tulane essay is…

• An opportunity to explain what you specifically like about Tulane.
• A place to highlight your unique skills and interests.

The Why Tulane essay isn't…

• The place to share why going to college in general is important.
• An opportunity to talk about the other schools you're applying to.

What's Next?

Starting your essay is often the hardest part. If you're unsure where to begin, read our guide to starting your essay perfectly!

A good essay is just one part of a successful Tulane application . If you want to really wow the admissions office, be sure your grades and test scores are up to par.

Tulane University may not be an Ivy League school, but that doesn't mean your application shouldn't be Ivy League-caliber. Use these tips for getting into Harvard to shape your college application, and you'll have no problem getting into any school you choose!

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Hayley Milliman is a former teacher turned writer who blogs about education, history, and technology. When she was a teacher, Hayley's students regularly scored in the 99th percentile thanks to her passion for making topics digestible and accessible. In addition to her work for PrepScholar, Hayley is the author of Museum Hack's Guide to History's Fiercest Females.

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Tulane University 2021-22 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Regular Decision: 

Tulane University 2021-22 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 1-2 essays of 50-800 words; 1 essay of 250 words.

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why , Activity .

Tulane has kept it simple with its classic supplemental questions, so we’ll make this introduction brief. We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: a straightforward supplement is a demand for perfection. So don’t overlook these quickie questions: read our guide instead!

Please describe why you are interested in attending Tulane University (optional) (50-800 words).

Okay, can we talk about this word limit? And don’t even get us started on the parenthetical “optional.” In a nutshell, Tulane is saying, “Do what you want.” But we’ve got some suggestions of our own. First and foremost, this essay is not optional (despite what it may say). A classic why essay like this one is a time-honored supplement tradition, and your answer can reveal a lot to admissions about your potential fit and overall commitment to the school. Not writing it implies that you might not have a reason to apply; in which case, why are you wasting everyone’s time? Spend some time on the Tulane website and get to know the school. Explore all areas of social and academic life to build your list of reasons. And while you could technically write 800 words, keep in mind that admissions’ time is limited. The more you write, the less time they have to spend reading each word. Strike a happy medium and aim for 300 words or so.

Tulane values the lessons gained from pursuing an education alongside a student body that represents a wide range of experiences and perspectives and is reflective of our multicultural world. If you would like to share a perspective related to your family, cultural group, sexual or gender identity, religious group, or some other aspect that has shaped your identity, please do so here (optional). (50-800 words)

This brand new prompt for the 2021-22 admissions cycle reminds us of the Common App’s first prompt , which asks applicants to discuss, among other things, an element of their background or identity that is crucial to understanding them. We recommend approaching this prompt with a similar mindset: What about your history or background sets you apart from your peers? How do you define yourself? What, in your short time on this earth, has helped shape the person you are today? Show admissions that you will add to the wide range of multicultural experiences and perspectives of Tulane’s student body.

Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (250 words)  

In short, this classic activity essay gives you an opportunity to expand beyond the mini description for one activity listed on your Common App. Ideally, you should choose one that you haven’t already discussed: If you already wrote your Common App personal statement on the transformative power of dance, you’ll have to seek inspiration elsewhere for this essay! As you weigh your options, consider highlighting a long-term activity. Tracing your four-year involvement with meditation club will allow you to showcase your personal growth or maybe underscore your leadership qualities. If your resume is light on extracurriculars, don’t forget that you can also discuss a professional experience. From flipping burgers to interning at a museum, what have your work experiences taught you about the value of your time and your potential career aspirations? For more inspiration, check out our video on writing about an internship or work experience!

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, what are tulane's essay prompts.

Hey guys! I'm working on my college applications and am planning on applying to Tulane. Anyone got the scoop on their essay prompts? Any tips for writing a killer essay for Tulane? Much appreciated!

Hey! Tulane's application includes one additional essay that asks you to explain why you are interested in attending Tulane.

To effectively answer this essay, research the university to find out what sets it apart from other schools and consider how those unique elements align with your interests and goals. Here are a few tips for crafting a strong essay:

1. Connect your academic interests to specific programs or courses offered at Tulane.

2. Mention extracurricular activities, clubs, or research opportunities that excite you.

3. Discuss how Tulane's location in New Orleans will provide you with opportunities to grow and engage with the local community.

4. Talk about how Tulane's campus culture aligns well with your personality and values.

Remember to be authentic, specific, and concise in your response, showcasing your genuine desire to attend Tulane and demonstrating that you've done your research. Good luck with your applications!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

Paul Tulane Award Essay ideas

<p>I am starting this post mainly for anyone who wants to bounce ideas off of others in the CC community. Also, I don’t know what direction to go into with the essay–what exactly are they looking for? Humor? Lessons learned/growth? How can I (and the rest of us on Prospective Tulane students here on CC) write some winning essays?</p>

<p>I am also considering applying for this award and have questions similar to yours… But I imagine that it really doesn’t matter what tone the essays have as long as they’re unique and creative and meaningful (helpful, I know!). I looked at the essay topics and have had trouble coming up with ideas or finding which direction to take. I’m just having trouble thinking out of the box and writing something that is out of the ordinary. Good luck with your essays and hopefully I will return to this thread with some more insight next time…</p>

<p>By the way, I highly doubt I would get this award but it doesn’t hurt to apply!</p>

<p>That’s why I am applying–I really don’t think I’ll win, but it can’t hurt.</p>

<p>Hello! Sorry, I know this is a little late for this year, but since the award is brand new, I figured this might help people applying next year. </p>

<p>I won the award, and I chose to write the essays about planting seeds for the future and haunting a certain place. My first essay was fairly basic–about why I love biology–but my second was much more personal, and talked about haunting my grandmother’s house. I think the admissions office liked this one the most. One note: in my letter, they mentioned an essay I wrote for my regular admissions application, so make sure to put effort into those as well!</p>

<p>Good luck to anyone applying!</p>

<p>Congrats, WWWD. Are you taking Tulane up on their offer?</p>

<p>Great choices. Emory is very nice too, no doubt about it. Give us a quick note when you decide. It would be interesting to get your impressions of Emory as compared to Tulane when you get back. Did you also get merit money from Emory?</p>

<p>No I didn’t, though I’m submitting an appeal. I honestly have no idea how often they reconsider merit aid at any school, so I don’t know what my chances of getting any will be. But I will be sure to let you know what I think about the two schools!</p>

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

How to Write the Tulane University Essays 2020-2021

Located in the vibrant and multicultural New Orleans, Tulane University is a private research university that began as a medical college to combat cholera. To this day, the school continues to uphold their commitment to service. Tulane has integrated community service into its curriculum and mandates it for all students. If you’re looking for ways to give back, the school has ample opportunities including service learning courses, public service research, and service-based study abroad programs.

The university is ranked #40 by the U.S. News & World Report and is #4 on the Princeton Review’s List of Colleges with the Happiest Students. In 2015, the school had an admissions rate of 31%, but it now has a much more competitive rate of 11% acceptance as of 2019. Of the admitted students in 2019, the middle 50% had an ACT score between 31-33 and an SAT score between 1410-1510.

The college has five different schools spanning science and engineering, architecture, business, liberal arts and public health. Something that makes Tulane stand out is that it encourages cross-disciplinary studies; a third of students double major! If you are looking to explore multiple areas of study, this college could be a good fit for you. 

The Tulane “Green Waves” represent the university in NCAA Division I, enjoying particular success in men’s tennis and achieving moderate recognition in baseball and women’s basketball. If varsity athletics are not your cup of tea, there are also over 200 student organizations to join (including Aikido, Quidditch, Fencing, Cat Mafia Comedy and Hallyu Youth Practicing Emotional Dance), and 20 fraternities and sororities to rush.

Has the allure of Tulane’s academic excellence convinced you to apply? Are you on the edge of your seat because of the ever-dropping acceptance rate? Never fear, our essay specialist team at CollegeVine is here to breakdown the tips and tricks to writing the Tulane University supplemental essays.

Want to know your chances at Tulane? Calculate your chances for free right now.

Want to learn what Tulane will actually cost you based on your income? And how long your application to the school should take? Here’s what every student considering Tulane needs to know.

Tulane University Supplemental Essay Prompts

Prompt 1: Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (20-250 words)

Prompt 2: Please describe why you are interested in attending Tulane University (50-800 words)

Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (250 words max)

Although you probably already listed out your extracurriculars on your application, chances are you those one or two lines didn’t accurately capture the hard work and dedication you put into your extracurriculars. This prompt attempts to mitigate that by allowing you to expand on one of your extracurriculars. This is an opportunity to add depth to your application in a way that shows rather than simply telling readers your passions and character traits. Answering this prompt also lends credibility to your application overall by detailing your specific contributions to the organization or activity you previously mentioned.

When choosing an activity, use the following steps to determine which one would fit best into this prompt:

Choosing the activity :

• Step 1: Replicate your extracurriculars list from the Common App on a piece of paper or in a spreadsheet.
• Step 2: Create a column to the right and write down any accomplishments, interactions, conversations, phrases, or words that are particularly memorable for each activity.
• Step 3: Further to the right, write down in a separate column the corresponding/related student organizations, events, and programs available at or in the vicinity of Tulane.
• Step 4: Rank your activities in order of content, with the ones with the most impressive accomplishments, most interesting conversations, and most corresponding Tulane programs at the top, and the ones with the least at the bottom.
• Step 5: Choose the top-ranked activity to write about, unless you feel very strongly for another high-ranked item.

You can approach this prompt multiple ways, but we recommend either a narrative- or collection-based approach. A narrative approach involves focusing in on one particular memory, event, or instance for the majority of the response. A collection approach would entail detailing a few of these events in a way where your response emulates some sort of connecting, underlying theme. Because of the smaller word count, a narrative approach will probably be easier to tackle, unless you have two or three strongly interconnected instances.

When constructing this prompt, it is important to focus on showing, and not telling your audience what you have done. While listing out the number of hours you spent volunteering or the board positions you held over the years does quantify your efforts, the essay prompt is a space to demonstrate these things more creatively, so avoid stating these facts directly unless they can be smoothly woven into your narrative.

The key to showing and not telling is specificity and descriptive language. A natural inclination many students have is to list out every event they volunteered at or contribution they made to the extracurricular, but within this word limit, this approach can leave much to be desired in terms of detail. Rather than pursuing quantity, try to zero in on one or two quality instances that you feel best showcase your contributions to the extracurricular, and use descriptive language rather than plain statements to illustrate how you feel about the activity rather than merely describing the steps you took to complete it.

Here are two versions of an essay about dance.

In my sophomore year, I stumbled into the dance studio by chance one day, and was invited to audition to be placed on a team. During the audition, I noticed how free yet powerful the advanced dancers looked when performing, and became determined to emulate their techniques. Ever since then, I have become a loyal member of the dance club at XXX High School.

In that first audition, I was selected to perform with the largest dance organization in school, which performed a variety of pieces, including house, modern, and freestyle at school fairs, annual productions, and charity events. As I learned to nail down the basics of hip-hop and modern dance, I began to choreograph for the team on occasion, and organizing extra practices for other members to perfect our upcoming set.

Dance is the newest thing I have learned in my life. In exploring this novel territory, I have learned the determination and humility necessary in nurturing a craft from scratch, characteristics that will certainly help me succeed in performing with the Newcomb Dance Company at Tulane. Other than this prestigious student dance organization, I am also interested in joining the Tulane Ballroom Dancing Club to supplement my repertoire of dance styles. It would be very interesting to experience and investigate the roots of social dance that we see today and I look forward to bringing my expertise in modern dance and choreography to the Tulane dance community.

Upon first pointe, I was immediately enraptured by the power (and delicacy), freedom (and discipline) of dance. Ever since, I have committed my creative spirit to cultivating the dance subculture at XXX High School, in a consummate mélange of my passion for hip-hop and community building .

With no prior training, I auditioned and was selected to perform with the largest dance organization in school.

To perfect our set and provide fellow budding dancers with the opportunity to expand their repertoire, I taught snippets of other styles — house, modern, freestyle… — in the bi-weekly extra practices I coordinated for the team.

The rest of my spare time I spent configuring my limbs into novel silhouettes in choreography for our upcoming set.

In exploring the exquisite art of dance, I grasped the humility and tenacity necessary in nurturing a craft from scratch, characteristics that will surely assist my transition into performing with the Newcomb Dance Company in the successors of its current production Above the Oaks. This annual student-run performance will prompt me to hone my technique in the three core styles that cement the foundation for all creative choreography: ballet, modern and jazz, perfecting my grand j été in the process.

Between rehearsals, I can be found waltzing into the Lakeside Room of the Reily Center to take lessons with Tammy Clark as a member of the Tulane Ballroom Dancing Club, foxtrotting across the floor, further into my dance journey.

While version 1 and version 2 both discuss the same activity, sequence of events, and even mention joining the same organizations at Tulane, version 2 is much more effective in illustrating an image of you enhancing the dance community’s spirit with your choreography of “novel silhouettes” in the admissions officers’ minds.

Here are some of the mistakes found in version 1:

• Failed to highlight the most impressive part of the candidate’s accomplishment in dance, which is being selected to dance with the largest organization in school with no prior training. While version 1 does mention performing with that organization after the first audition and mentions stumbling into that audition accidentally, it does not spell out the candidate’s lack of experience in plain words, and hence does not sufficiently emphasize her talent.
• Used very plain and commonplace phrases on applications such as:
• “I noticed how… and became determined to…”
• “Ever since then, I became a…”
• “Other than this… I am also interested in joining…”
• “It would be very interesting to…”
• Try to avoid these commonly used sentence structures. Otherwise, embellish them by rearranging the structure of the sentence or packing the rest of the sentence with unique words (that fit the context of course) and vivid imagery.
• Version 1 “told” without “showing” anything. Version 2’s  “ Upon first pointe, I was immediately enraptured by the power (and delicacy), freedom (and discipline) of dance” effectively conveys the idea that the candidate was hooked by dance upon her first encounter, but with much more powerful illustration than version 1’s statement of events that led to the candidate’s participation in dance. Version 2 also makes reference to “pointe,” which is a ballet term, further showcasing her true depth of experience in dance. If possible, try to incorporate relevant references to the activity throughout your essay.

Just remember, less is not more in terms of the level of detail in admissions essay-writing. In your first drafts, try to pen as many details about your anecdotes as you can possibly think of; you can decide which ones are not essential later.

Writing them all down on one page allows you to make a more objective decision about which ones are critical and which ones are not. Besides, in revising your essay, you never know which details you will need later on; therefore, it is beneficial to have an archive of all possible details in a longer first draft.

Please describe why you are interested in attending Tulane University. (optional, 800 words max)

Many universities employ a “ Why This College? ” prompt to better assess your interest in the school and knowledge of their current offerings. Writing a strong response serves to set apart candidates who may have similar academic statistics and extracurriculars. You should absolutely respond to this essay, even though it’s technically optional.

Your response to this prompt helps admissions officers determine  if Tulane is a good fit for you – and in return, doing this type of research can also help you determine where it falls on your prospective school list. Therefore, it is important that you paint a detailed and accurate picture of what you are looking to get out of your college experience at Tulane. While it is impossible for you to truly know what your college experience holds, you can use your current skills and interests as a starting point to determine which communities you may inhabit at Tulane.

Since you have up to 800 words, you have ample space to talk about multiple aspects of Tulane that interest you, and you’ll be able to also provide plenty of detail on how those Tulane resources connect to your interests and goals. 

One potential starting point is thinking about your prospective major and potential courses you could take. A great starting point is Tulane’s website, where there is a list of Majors and Minors. Under this tab, you can choose your prospective major and then see a list of course requirements with course descriptions. You can also browse a list of professors and find one that participates in research that intrigues you. 

However, it is important to note that simply name-dropping a class or professor can have an adverse effect rather than contributing to your application. This might be the case if you choose courses that are too generic or mention professors without connecting them to your interests. Remember, while this essay is about your interest in Tulane, it is also about you. Therefore, establishing a personal connection to the college is important . 

For example, think about your current clubs and which of them you would like to pursue in the future. Tulane’s website has a Campus Life tab that contains multiple avenues to learn about the school’s offerings and its connection to the surrounding community. Just as with classes and professors, it is important to find clubs and events specific to Tulane and your interests. For example, if a student has a history of fighting food insecurity, Tulane has a Food Recovery Network organization. Because most schools have some form of community service, it is important to name the specific club and also specific goals and activities that you wish to participate in. You should describe what you wish to do at Tulane and tie it back to work that you have already done in this field. 

Here are two potential responses:

Bad: “I have always been very passionate about community service; in particular, fighting food insecurity is very important to me. I am interested in Tulane because I wish to make a difference in the community and there are clubs that fight food insecurity in the local area. I can use the resources at this college to further pursue my passion and help others. This will also help me gain leadership skills for my future career, which I hope will involve some form of community service in this manner.”

Good: “At my high school, I established a program to combat food insecurity where students could drop their unopened leftover food from the cafeteria lunches in a box that anyone could grab from. I worked with my principal to establish a program where the food that was left at the end of the lunch period was taken to a local food shelter. My passion for food redistribution is one that I hope to continue at Tulane, a school that prides itself on its commitment to community service. Through an organization like the Food Recovery Network, I can help package leftovers from The Commons to donate to a homeless shelter. I also plan on starting my own initiative to fight food insecurity on campus, by working with dining hall staff to create a program to increase accessibility to food insecure students.”

The first response may be factual but lacks the detail and depth necessary to sound convincing. The generic approach does not really convey the student’s background in this topic, or how they plan to pursue it at Tulane. The second response bridges the student’s past with their potential future at Tulane, and establishes a realistic and goal-oriented path for readers to follow. Adding these specific details signals a deeper interest in Tulane itself while also communicating your passion for this type of community service. 

Finally, because Tulane is a small, private university, it can be helpful to mention people affiliated with the university, especially if they influenced your decision to apply. Tulane espouses this as it can be helpful for their admissions office to know if you have an indirect link to the school. This can include current students, alumni, and recruitment officers. If you don’t know anyone yet, no worries! Tulane has a Green Wave Ambassadors program where prospective students can read about and contact current campus tour guides at the university. Networking can both help you learn more about Tulane and also give you valuable information for this essay prompt.

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advice on Tulane Supplemental Essays? Tulane EA Chances?

Tulane is my top choice & I am working on my supplemental essays for the EA deadline. Any advice would be very much appreciated:)

Why Tulane Essay: Any tips on how I can make my Why Tulane essay stand out? (I know all the reasons why I want to go there, but I am just having trouble trying to approach it in an authentic way)

Extracurricular activity Essay: should i write about my business internship in Qatar (relates to my intended majors) or should i write about art and how I have combined that passion with community service?

Also, can anyone give their opinions on what my chances of getting in are? And should I report that I got a 3 on my APES exam if that was the only AP I took junior year? (my school doesn’t offer AP’s until junior year)

Here are my stats:

OOS (VA), white, female, I go to a rigorous private catholic high school

ACT: 32 (34 english, 30 math, 34 reading, 30 science)

UW GPA: 3.97

upward trend all four years with all As & a few A-, but I’m nervous that it doesn’t look like I challenged myself because of my lack of APs, when in reality my school is very rigorous & I worked really hard to earn good grades

Senior Year Classes: AP macro, AP us gov., DE college composition (english), HN physics, precalculus, spanish 4, intro to marketing, theology 12

intended majors: Marketing & Political Science (w/ concentration in International Relations) & I am interested in minoring in Spanish

Jobs/internships: -2.5 week business internship at the American Chamber of Commerce in Qatar last summer -worked as an art camp counselor for two summers

extracurriculars: Art Honor Society, volunteering weekly at an after-school program teaching art to kids, NHS (which at my school is actually competitive to get into & I have done a lot of community service through it), private art lessons throughout high school, spanish club, MUN (just joined this year), Student Ambassador, psychology club

strong common app essay

I’m guessing my recommendations are all good, but idk if they are anything special

demonstrated interest: flew to New Orleans to attend the Tulane open house last year, recently attended a local information session, sat in on a marketing class at tulane when I visited (although that was not documented, I may mention it in my why tulane essay)

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