College Applications
When it comes to writing standout college application essays, few prompts trip up students—and parents—more than the classic: “Why do you want to attend our university?”
This isn’t a trick question, but it is a test. Colleges want to know two things:
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Have you done your research?
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Are you genuinely a good fit?
That’s where these Why Us essay tips come in. Whether you are applying to UT Austin, Rice, Michigan, USC, UChicago, NYU—or any other selective school—this guide will help you avoid common mistakes and craft a response that feels specific, personal, and compelling.
DO: Be Specific About the School
Vague answers won’t impress. Mention particular programs, professors, or campus experiences that genuinely excite you.
Instead of:
“I want to study psychology at UT because it has a good program.”
Try:
“I’m drawn to UT Austin’s Behavioral Neuroscience track, especially the opportunity to work in Dr. X’s lab on cognitive resilience—a topic I first explored while caring for my grandmother with early-onset dementia.”
DO: Connect the School to Your Story
It’s not enough to say what the school has—you need to explain why it matters to you. Tie your values, interests, or experiences to what the university offers.
Example:
“After years of being the only student of color in AP Lit, I’m eager to contribute to Rice’s inclusive classroom conversations and learn from peers who value different
perspectives as deeply as I do.”
DO: Show How You’ll Contribute
Colleges aren’t just looking for students who’ll benefit from their resources—they’re also looking for students who’ll give back. Show how you plan to make an impact.
Example:
“At NYU, I plan to bridge communities by collaborating with Tisch filmmakers and Tandon engineers to create interactive storytelling experiences that spotlight immigrant voices like mine.”
DO: Match the School’s Vibe
Each school has its own personality. UChicago is curious and quirky. USC is bold and interdisciplinary. Rice is collaborative and close-knit. Do your homework—then reflect those values in your essay.
DON’T: Copy the Website
If your essay could be copied and pasted into another school’s application, it’s not personal enough.
Avoid phrases like:
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“This school has world-class faculty.”
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“I love the city it’s in.”
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“I want a college with great academics.”
Instead, name real faculty, describe real opportunities, and make it clear why they matter to you.
DON’T: Miss Hidden Prompts
Some schools sneak the “Why Us” question into another topic. For example, UT Austin asks why you’re interested in your major—that’s still a chance to show what UT offers for your specific goals. Take it.
DON’T: Focus Just on Location or Reputation
Being excited about New York, LA, or Austin is valid—but the city isn’t the one admitting you. If you bring up location, connect it to your academic path or personal growth.
DON’T: List Without Purpose
Long lists of professors or clubs don’t impress unless you explain why they’re meaningful. Better to go deep on two or three things than skim ten.
Final Why Us Essay Tip: Use the “White-Out Test”
Try this: cover the school’s name in your essay. If what you’ve written could apply to five other colleges, revise it. A strong Why Us essay shows that you’ve done your research—and that the school is a natural fit for who you are and who you’re becoming.
Take the First Step Toward College Success!
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