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UW-Madison Essay Example from an Accepted Student

With over 30,000 undergraduates, the flagship university of the Wisconsin public system is known for its top-tier academics, high-achieving sports teams, party life. The University of Wisconsin Madison is considered one of the best 50 schools in the nation, thus making gaining admission a difficult task. You’ll need more than good grades to get into this school—your essays will have to shine as well. 

In this post, we will share a real essay an accepted UW Madison student submitted. We will also go over what this essay did well, and where there is room for improvement.

Please note: Looking at examples of real essays students have submitted to colleges can be very beneficial to get inspiration for your essays. You should never copy or plagiarize from these examples when writing your own essays. Colleges can tell when an essay isn’t genuine and will not view students favorably if they plagiarized. 

Read our UW Madison essay breakdown to get a comprehensive overview of this year’s supplemental prompts.

Essay Example – Why UW Madison, and Why This Major? 

As a student from Wisconsin, I have grown up with a high degree of exposure to discussions surrounding the University of Wisconsin-Madison. As a result of the assortment of compliments I frequently heard describing its academics, I have always held the university in high regard.

Additionally, I have heard of the stellar location and value that comes along with the university being in the state capital. Through the combination of the two previous factors, the University of Wisconsin-Madison has become the center of my search for my ideal college experience. While exploring further, however, I have found that there is more about the university that causes my desire to attend. From the array of libraries and study spaces, a large student body in which I can find like-minded people, to the excellent campus I saw during a visit, there are countless aspects about the university that I find alluring. However, one element of the university stands out from the rest— the Wisconsin Idea.

I would describe myself as curious due to my constant attempts to learn new information; the more knowledge about current or former events I can achieve, the better. When a person has consistent access to accurate, unbiased information, I believe they can grow as a person, academically or socially. As new information is gathered and shared, new ideas can develop.

These novel ideas can lead to innovation and problem-solving. Unbiased and unpersuasive reports allow for thinking for oneself, forcing originality. I am interested in entering the field of journalism because of its capacity to prompt these thoughts. Beyond any encouragement of self- reliance, journalism can be an agent of change. Through reporting on issues afflicting society, widespread awareness is created. A society’s recognition of its problems enables attempts to fix them through methods such as civic engagement. Through these characteristics of journalism, better people and communities develop, showing its connection to the Wisconsin Idea. A bettering of society is something meaningful to me, and I believe journalism is the pathway to do so. The University of Wisconsin-Madison will allow me to explore all my interests involving journalism.

Growing up, I appreciated the coverage of sportswriters, from national writers such as ESPN’s Jeff Passan to local writers such as University of Wisconsin-Madison alumnus Curt Hogg with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. The work of these sportswriters is also valuable to society, helping provide moments of respite from the stresses of life. Through the sports communication certificate program, I will be able to discover if this branch of journalism is the niche meant for me.

Additionally, the University of Wisconsin-Madison has the resources that will allow me to succeed in journalism. Being in the journalism program with a focus on reporting and multimedia journalism, I will be able to strengthen my ability to inform the public in conjunction with the Wisconsin Idea. Education on how to vet sources and how to properly engage with audiences will allow for the merging of reporting with the mentioned principles and values. Through the university, I am confident that I will be able to leave a positive mark on the world.

I know that the University of Wisconsin-Madison will be able to cultivate my interests and help me grow as a person. Through the totality of its resources and classes, I will be well-prepared for my career as a journalist and ready to contribute positively to society.

What the Essay Did Well

Since this essay combines the “ Why School? ” and “ Why Major? ” supplements, it’s important to answer both questions while still ensuring the essay feels like one cohesive unit. This student has done exactly that, by highlighting the Wisconsin Idea and using that thread to tie his ideas together throughout the essay. That anchor also allows for a smooth transition between the student’s interest in the school and their interest in the major.

In addition to doing an excellent job crafting a unified essay, the student gives a lot of background on their decision to major in journalism, which shows that they are a thoughtful, dedicated student who is prepared to get the most out of a Wisconsin education. They start off by telling us why they see journalism as important in the big picture: “ Through these characteristics of journalism, better people and communities develop, showing its connection to the Wisconsin Idea. ” 

But in the next paragraph, they zoom in from the abstract ideals of journalism, to their personal interest in sports journalism specifically. By mentioning particular sportswriters they find inspiring, plus the “ focus on reporting and multimedia journalism ” they aspire towards, we get a more detailed picture of how they will contribute to the world of journalism, which is further evidence that this is a motivated student who is prepared to hit the ground running in college.

Although this essay is more detailed when answering the “Why Major?” question than the “Why School?” one, that isn’t a huge issue because they bring in school-specific programs while discussing their major. That, in effect, answers the “Why School?” question, because this student would not be able to get the same education in journalism at a different school. As highlighted at the beginning of this section, this essay’s biggest strength is that seamless blend of school opportunities and the student’s interest in journalism as a major.

What Could Be Improved

There are two weaknesses to this essay: the response to the “Why School?” half of the prompt, and the lack of personal details.

As noted above, the student does a good job of addressing “Why School?” in the part of their essay that focuses on “Why Major?” but the essay would be even stronger if they took some time to answer “Why School?” directly.

The first two paragraphs are in theory doing that, but they are wildly vague and provide few substantive examples of why UW Madison is a good fit for this student. As a rule of thumb, the school’s reputation and location, generic resources like libraries, and general campus aesthetic are not valid answers for why you want to attend, because lots of other schools have strong reputations, good locations, beautiful libraries, etc.

Instead, when answering this prompt you want to hone in on opportunities that can only be found at that school and explain how they connect to your current interests or will help you accomplish your goals. That shows admissions officers that you want to attend their school specifically, rather than that you’d be happy at any college in a state capital.

A better response would have looked something like this: “I look forward to sitting in on panel discussions hosted by UW’s Center for Journalism Ethics and working under Professor Culver to broaden my perspectives when I report on difficult topics like racial injustice, a topic which has particularly contentious in Wisconsin since the shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha. ”

This version shows that the student already has a clear, concrete vision of how they would fit into UW Madison’s campus community, which in turn gives admissions officers a more detailed sense of what this student would bring to their school. 

This version also shows how the student being from Wisconsin makes them a stronger applicant than someone from another state, as they have a personal understanding of the same issues that have affected UW Madison. The original essay, in contrast, only showed that being from Wisconsin has helped the student know the school better, not how them being from Wisconsin would benefit UW Madison.

The other issue with this essay is that the reader learns very little about the student’s background and personality. Broad statements like “ A bettering of society is something meaningful to me, ” and “ Growing up, I appreciated the coverage of sportswriters, ” don’t have enough detail for the reader to understand this student, as these two statements could be true of thousands of other applicants. Remember, the whole point of the essay is to distinguish yourself from students whose more objective metrics, like grades and extracurriculars, are similar to yours.

A stronger essay would accomplish that by providing insight into the emotional connection this student has to journalism. Rather than vaguely stating that sports journalism “help[s] provide moments of respite from the stresses of life,” it would describe how the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s riveting coverage of the Milwaukee Bucks’ championship season gave the student something joyful to think about even as their grandfather’s dementia was worsening. 

Without that personal connection, even if admissions officers know what the student is interested in and even some of their beliefs about the world, they won’t know who the student truly is at their core. That deeper layer of understanding is what would take this essay from good to great.

Where to Get Feedback on Your Essay

Do you want feedback on your University of Wisconsin essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Deferred? Write a letter of continued interest and choose your EDII school!

Command Education Guide

How to write the university of wisconsin-madison supplemental essays, updated for 2024-2025.

Note that UW also offers the following guidelines:

“Keep these tips in mind as you work on your writing:

• Develop your thoughts before you begin the writing process, and create an outline.
• The maximum word count for each essay is 650, but we recommend planning for 300–500 words.
• Do not type directly into the web form. Instead, work on your draft in word processing software.
• Allow time to develop and revisit your writing.
• Check for spelling mistakes and ask someone to proofread your final version.
• Be genuine and honest in your writing.”

If you apply using the Common Application, you will be asked to respond to one of the first-year Common Application essays . If you apply with the Universities of Wisconsin Application, you will need to answer the following prompt:

Each student is unique. Please tell us about the particular life experiences, talents, commitments, and/or interests you will bring to our campus.

Explanation:

This prompt is asking you to highlight what makes you unique and how those aspects will contribute to the campus community at the University of Wisconsin. The admissions committee wants to understand who you are beyond grades and test scores. They are looking for insights into your character, values, and what you can bring to the university environment.

Start by focusing on what makes you uniquely you. Think about the life experiences, talents, and passions that define who you are. Reflect on significant moments or challenges that have shaped your journey, such as leadership roles, impactful volunteer work, or personal growth. Highlight your specific skills and talents—whether it’s a knack for organizing events, a commitment to social justice, or a creative problem-solving approach. Once you have identified these unique aspects of yourself, connect them to what you can contribute to the UW-Madison community. Research UW’s values, mission, and campus culture to find intersections between your interests and their priorities. If you’re passionate about gender equality, for example, mention how you’re excited to engage with the Gender and Sexuality Campus Center and other related initiatives.

Finally, show your experiences and skills align with the university’s goals and how you plan to actively participate in or contribute to campus life. For a strong supplemental essay, make sure you illustrate your potential impact by providing specific examples from your past achievements. Describe how your experiences have prepared you to make a difference at UW-Madison. Whether it’s through leading a club, organizing community service projects, or tackling social issues, make it clear how these achievements have equipped you to contribute meaningfully to the university environment.

“When you educate a girl, you educate a family, a community, a country,” Michelle Obama declares as the crowd, including myself, erupts in wild cheers. It’s International Day of the Girl, and I’m in Times Square, watching the former First Lady of the US as she is interviewed by Today Show hosts Hoda Kotb and Savannah Guthrie. In spite of having to wake up at 3 a.m. to participate in this event, I’m ecstatic and overjoyed by being in the presence of my biggest role model. Her passionate advocacy for girls’ education resonates deeply with me, and as I observe the crowd—filled with members of organizations like Girl Scouts and She’s the First—I am struck by their collective dedication and enthusiasm. This moment of shared purpose is both inspiring and affirming.

As the President of my high school’s She’s the First club, I have seized numerous opportunities to champion girls’ education. Organizing fundraisers and raising over $1,100 for young Kenyan students has been incredibly rewarding. Coordinating an event to meet Michelle Obama, while challenging, further ignited my passion and commitment to this cause. The support from my friends, peers, and teachers has been instrumental in navigating these challenges. Their encouragement has helped me cultivate a supportive network of like-minded individuals who are equally committed to making a difference.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison stands out to me as the perfect place to continue advocating for girls’ empowerment. UW’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, as well as its robust support for student organizations, aligns perfectly with my values and ambitions. I am particularly excited about the opportunities to engage with like-minded peers through the Gender and Sexuality Campus Center and to participate in initiatives that promote gender equality.

UW’s vibrant campus community and its dedication to social justice are particularly appealing to me. I am excited to bring my experience in organizing impactful events and my passion for gender equality to the university. At UW, I plan to contribute to the Gender and Sexuality Campus Center and participate in initiatives that align with my commitment to social change. I hope to leverage the interdisciplinary nature of this program to develop innovative strategies that address barriers to education for girls in underserved communities. The program’s robust curriculum will provide me with a deep understanding of gender dynamics, policy analysis, and social justice frameworks. By collaborating with like-minded peers and faculty at UW, I aim to contribute to cutting-edge research on gender inequality and develop actionable solutions.

I am particularly excited about the prospect of engaging with the University’s research centers and community partnerships like the Center for Research on Gender and Women (CRGW) and Wisconsin Union Directorate (WUD) Social Justice Committee to pilot programs that address educational disparities and promote gender equity. Ultimately, my goal is to influence policy and practice on a global scale, advocating for systemic reforms that ensure every girl has the opportunity to thrive academically and personally. I am confident that UW will provide me with the education, experiences, and network I need to achieve my goals and make a difference in the world.

The second prompt is asked of all applicants, regardless of which application platform they are using to submit their application.

Tell us why you would like to attend the University of Wisconsin–Madison. In addition, please include why you are interested in studying the major(s) you have selected. If you selected undecided, please describe your areas of possible academic interest.

It’s important to make your response to this supplemental question as specific and personal as possible. Start by thinking about what excites you most about UW-Madison. What drew you to this school? Maybe it’s the school’s strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, or perhaps its vibrant campus life and the wealth of academic resources. Mention these aspects early on to show you’ve done your research and that you’re genuinely excited about what the university offers.

For instance, you could highlight the university’s renowned Morgridge Center for Public Service if you’re interested in social justice or civic engagement. Explain how their programs will provide you with the academic foundation and practical skills necessary to further your passion for gender equality and educational access. If there are specific professors, courses, or research opportunities that particularly excite you, be sure to mention them. Connect your academic interests to your chosen major. If you’re set on a specific major, discuss what sparked your interest in this field. Reflect on your past experiences that led you to this decision. Clubs, extracurricular involvements, or perhaps a class that had a great impact on you are a great place to start. Also, be specific about how you plan to engage with the campus community; highlight any specific resources or programs, such as the university’s research centers, that will help you achieve your goals.

Lastly, describe how the university’s environment will help you grow both academically and personally. Share your enthusiasm for becoming an active part of the campus community and how you plan to make a positive impact. Whether it’s through student organizations, academic research, or community engagement, make it clear that you’re ready to contribute to the university and make the most of the opportunities it offers. By grounding your essay in specific details about UW and your own experiences and aspirations, you’ll create a compelling narrative that demonstrates why you’re a great fit for the university.

Attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison excites me because of its strong academic programs, renowned faculty, and vibrant campus community. As a prospective double major in Urban Studies and Sociology, I am eager to explore how these fields intersect and deepen my understanding of social structures, patterns, and phenomena related to socio-economic background, gender, and race. Classes such as “Urban Social Problems” and “Race and Ethnicity in the United States” will allow me to examine government policies and the economic and social factors affecting metropolitan areas, specifically Madison.

Professor Katherine J. Curtis, whose research focuses on population dynamics and environmental change, is someone whose work I admire greatly. I would love the opportunity to assist her in her research on the socio-economic impacts of environmental changes on communities. This aligns with my long-term mission to develop solutions for individuals experiencing homelessness, especially those transitioning from foster care, juvenile justice, and residential treatment services.

The Urban Studies major at UW-Madison places a great emphasis on community engagement and fieldwork, which is something I deeply value. Having gained experience in documentary-making through interviewing my grandmother about her Korean War experiences, I am excited to take courses such as “Documentary Research in Social Science,” where I can hone my skills and learn about the historical and sustained importance of documentaries. I am eager to get involved in the Morgridge Center for Public Service, where I can apply my skills outside the classroom by working with nonprofit organizations and recording my findings and reflections to raise awareness about social issues. Additionally, the Wisconsin Idea Fellowship offers a unique platform for students to address community challenges through applied research, and I am enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing to such initiatives.

Professor Jenna Nobles’ research on migration and public policy is particularly inspiring. I hope to join her research initiatives on wealth inequality and the economic struggles of ethnic groups in diverse geographic and demographic contexts. Courses like “Sociology of Economic Change and Development” will enable me to understand the impact of migration on receiving societies and the link between population, development, and poverty. Beyond academics, I am excited to engage in UW-Madison’s dynamic campus life. With my experience in teaching children and advocating for education rights through my involvement in my local Korean school and organizations like Girls in Engineering, Math, and Science and She’s the First, I hope to continue my spirit of social activism by volunteering with initiatives like the PEOPLE Program, which supports students from underrepresented backgrounds.

“When you educate a girl, you educate a family, a community, a country,” Michelle Obama declares as the crowd, including myself, erupts in wild cheers. It’s International Day of the Girl, and I’m in Times Square, watching the former First Lady of the US being interviewed by Today Show hosts Hoda Kotb and Savannah Guthrie. In spite of having to wake up at 3 a.m. to participate in this event, I’m ecstatic and overjoyed by being in the presence of my biggest role model. Her passionate advocacy for girls’ education resonates deeply with me, and as I observe the crowd—members of organizations like Girl Scouts and She’s the First—I am struck by their collective dedication and enthusiasm. This moment of shared purpose is both inspiring and affirming.

As the President of my high school’s She’s the First club, I have seized numerous opportunities to champion girls’ education. Organizing fundraisers and raising over $1100 for young Kenyan students has been incredibly rewarding. Coordinating an event to meet Michelle Obama, while challenging, further ignited my passion and commitment to this cause. The support from my friends, peers, and teachers has been instrumental in navigating these challenges. Their encouragement has helped me cultivate a supportive network of like-minded individuals who are equally committed to making a difference.

I am particularly excited about the prospect of engaging with the University’s resources, such as its research centers and community partnerships, such as Center for Research on Gender and Women (CRGW) and Wisconsin Union Directorate (WUD) Social Justice Committee, to pilot programs that address educational disparities and promote gender equity. Ultimately, my goal is to influence policy and practice on a global scale, advocating for systemic reforms that ensure every girl has the opportunity to thrive academically and personally. I am confident that UW will provide me with the education, experiences, and network I need to achieve my goals and make a difference in the world.

It’s important to make your response to this supplement question as specific and personal as possible. Start by thinking about what excites you most about UW-Madison. What drew you to this school? Maybe it’s their strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, or perhaps the vibrant campus life and the wealth of academic resources. Mention these aspects early on to show you’ve done your research and that you’re genuinely excited about what the university offers.

For instance, you could highlight the university’s renowned Morgridge Center for Public Service if you’re interested in social justice or civic engagement. Explain how their programs will provide you with the academic foundation and practical skills to further your passion for gender equality and educational access. If there are specific professors, courses, or research opportunities that particularly excite you, be sure to mention them. Connect your academic interests to your chosen major. If you’re set on a specific major, discuss what sparked your interest in this field. Reflect on your past experiences that led you to this decision. Clubs, extracurricular involvements, or perhaps a class that had a great impact on you are a great place to start. Also, be specific about how you plan to engage with the campus community; highlight any specific resources or programs, such as the university’s research centers, that will help you achieve your goals.

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University of Wisconsin-Madison 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 15

You Have: 

University of Wisconsin-Madison 2024-25 Application Essay Question Explanation

The Requirements: 1 essay of 650 words (or less)

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why

How to Write the UW-Madison Supplemental Essay

Luckily for you, UW-Madison asks applicants to submit just one (1) supplemental essay. The essay is an opportunity for you to give admissions “an idea of who you are and what you want to accomplish as part of [their] community.” In order to write a distinct essay, we recommend being genuine and specific when discussing your interest in the university and your academic goals. Keep reading for more tips and examples!  

UW-Madison Essay Prompt Breakdown

Tell us why you would like to apply to the university of wisconsin-madison. in addition, please include why you are interested in studying the major(s) you have selected. if you selected undecided please describe your areas of possible academic interest. (you may enter up to 650 words, but 300-500 is recommended)..

This sneaky prompt is a twofer, though both parts cover classic why essay territory: admissions wants to know just what appeals to you about the University of Wisconsin-Madison. So, take a moment to look inside. What exactly do you want out of your college experience? Research opportunities? Weekend football games? To dip your toe into city life? Now, if you were to imagine a Venn diagram of your expectations and the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s offerings, what would land in the overlap? The only way to know for sure is to do your research!  

The goal is to show admissions that you’ve done your homework. Make sure Admissions Officers know that you’ve already thought about what you want to do when you get there and that you’re ready to act on those hopes and dreams and so forth. 

But, wait, there’s more! The second part of the prompt gives you the opportunity to include information about specific academic programs at Madison that appeal to you. So just as before, utilize the school’s website, but this time pay careful attention to the specific majors and academic offerings that catch your eye. What do you love about your chosen major and/or minor? If you’re interested in UW’s Gender & Women’s Studies pr ogram, can you describe what you will take away from this program and how it relates to your long-term ambitions ? How did you become interested in this field, and what resources does Madison provide that will help you achieve your goals? Finally, if you’re undecided, think about what makes Madison the ideal environment for your academic exploration. How do you plan to hone in on the perfect major as you attend? Remember, the more details you include, the better.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in UW-Madison Essays

We have been reading UW-Madison essays for over twenty years now, so we know a thing or two about the most common mistakes students make. The most common mistakes to avoid are repeating the prompt in your essay (don’t waste your words), trying to sound like an academic (admissions wants to hear your authentic voice!), and using cliches (they’re ineffective and—let’s face it—lazy).

Why Choose College Essay Advisors for UW-Madison Essays

We at College Essay Advisors have been guiding students one-on-one through the essay writing process for the UW-Madison supplement for over twenty years. We take a holistic approach to this essay, considering each student’s application package as a whole and identifying their strengths to highlight. Our Advisors accommodate each student’s scheduling needs to virtually brainstorm, draft, and revise winning essays. It’s incredibly important to us that each student’s voice is preserved, and we pride ourselves in helping students to write successful UW-Madison essays that differentiate them from similarly qualified applicants. For more information, submit a contact form below or review our one-on-one advising services or list of student acceptances .

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Frequently Asked Questions

UW-Madison requires one (1) essay of 650 words or fewer.

UW-Madison is looking for genuine, honest essays that will help them get to know you beyond your GPA and test scores. The more specific your essays, the more they will stand out from the pack, so it’s in your best interest to take the time to provide a detailed description of your interests and vision of life as a student at Wisconsin.

In order to make your UW-Madison essay stand out, we recommend giving yourself plenty of time to brainstorm , reflect on your stories, and piece together a cohesive narrative that reveals new information about who you are and what you hope to accomplish without relying on common cliches.

"[My son] was accepted to Wisconsin as a direct admit to the business school! With their holistic reviews, I know his essays stood out. He had a few friends who were denied from Wisconsin and I truly believe it was [my son's] essay that put him over the top. I am so grateful to you and College Essay Advisors for your guidance and expertise in helping him to craft his amazing essays!"

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"Thank you so much for making those edits! I couldn't have gotten it within the word count without you. At first I was hesitant about some of the changes, but upon closer look, I realized that many of the sentences you took out were redundant. As you commented, some of the points were still made without having to explicitly say them. Seriously, I can not thank you enough for all of your help. I really appreciate you taking me on as a client with such time restraints."

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University of Wisconsin-Madison Supplemental Essays 2024-25 — Prompts & Advice

August 7, 2024

The University of Wisconsin—Madison has joined the ranks of other premier flagship universities that high-achieving teens from all around the country/world now line up for a chance to attend. Like  UVA,   UNC—Chapel Hill , and the  University of Michigan , UW-Madison requires its in-state residents to sport excellent grades and test scores. Further, it has an even higher bar for out-of-state hopefuls. This makes the University of Wisconsin – Madison supplemental essay more important than ever before.

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

In evaluating applicants, the University of Wisconsin—Madison places a strong emphasis on the quality of one’s essays. Below are UW-Madison’s supplemental prompts for the 2024-25 admissions cycle along with our advice for creating a needle-moving admissions essay.

2024-2025 University of Wisconsin-Madison Supplemental Essay Question—Common App

The following prompt is the only supplemental essay that students will encounter when applying to UW-Madison via the Common App:

Tell us why you decided to apply to the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In addition, please include why you are interested in studying the major(s) you have selected. If you selected undecided, please describe your areas of possible academic interest. (650 words max)

Prospective Badgers face a two-parter here. You are tasked with presenting a compelling case as to:

1) Why you want to attend UW-Madison.

2) Why you have picked your particular academic discipline.

University of Wisconsin Madison Supplemental Essay (Continued)

As you move through the “Why Us?” and “Why this Major?” portions of this essay, consider taking some of the following steps to address why UW-Madison is the perfect fit for you  and  why you are the perfect fit for UW-Madison:

• How did your interest in your major of choice begin and how has it matured over the years?
• How do you pursue knowledge about your subject of interest? Talk about sources of learning (teachers, podcasts, books, news, etc.).
• While pursuing your majors(s)/interest(s) of choice, how will you take advantage of the university’s immense resources both inside and outside of the classroom? Be sure to cite specific academic programs , professors,  research opportunities , internship/externship programs ,  study abroad programs , etc. Discuss why they pique your interest.
• How will you be an active, contributing member of the Badger student body? What special talents and passions will you bring to the University of Wisconsin-Madison? Check out this list of nearly  1,000 student-run organizations  on campus.
• Lastly, show evidence of how your past/current endeavors (academic and extracurricular) will carry over onto UW-Madison’s campus.

Again, if you are applying through the Common App, this essay will be the only supplement you need to worry about. However, if you elect to apply via the UW System Application (as some in-state students applying to multiple UW campuses do), you need to address the next prompt as well.

2024-2025 University of Wisconsin-Madison Supplemental Essay Question—UW System Application

Each student is unique. Please tell us about the particular life experiences, talents, commitments, and/or interests you will bring to our campus. ( 650 words)

This open-ended prompt is a platform from which you can share more about an academic or extracurricular achievement, detail a personal interest, chronicle a challenge/obstacle you overcame, or just share a meaningful event in your life.

No matter which route you choose, what truly matters here is that you use this essay as an opportunity to reveal something deep and important about yourself. The sky’s the limit as long as your topic is personal and sheds light on who you are as an applicant and prospective community member.

Remember, these essays will be your best chance to forge a human connection with an admissions officer since UW-Madison is too large a school to offer you an interview. In sum, be honest, vulnerable, sincere, and reflective in your essay and the result will be a compelling composition that will ultimately aid your admissions chances.

How important is the essay at the UW-Madison?

The essays are “very important” to the University of Wisconsin–Madison admissions committee. The only other factor rated this highly is the rigor of one’s secondary school record. GPA, recommendations, and state residency are rated as “important.” In other words, the University of Wisconsin is clearly very interested in the quality of your essay. Therefore, we can conclude that the admissions committee will weigh your essays heavily in their evaluation of your candidacy.

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Interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your University of Wisconsin—Madison supplement? We encourage you to get a quote  today.

Looking for additional writing resources? Check out the following:

• Common App Essay Prompts
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• Should I Complete Optional College Essays?
• How to Brainstorm a College Essay
• 25 Inspiring College Essay Topics
• “Why This College?” Essay Examples
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• College Essay

Dave Bergman

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Home — Application Essay — University — UW–Madison

UW–Madison Admission Essays

Understanding the intricacies of university application essays is crucial for aspiring students. The University of Wisconsin–Madison, renowned for its rigorous academic environment, demands essays that reflect a student's intellectual capabilities and personal growth. In fact, analyzing UW Madison essay examples can offer significant insights into the level of depth and articulation expected by such prestigious institutions. These essays are a vital component of the application process, offering a unique opportunity for students to showcase their individuality, experiences, and aspirations. In this guide, we'll explore various aspects of the University of Wisconsin–Madison essay requirements, providing insights and examples, including those akin to UW Madison essay examples, to help students navigate this critical aspect of their university applications.

Key Features of UW–Madison Essays

The University of Wisconsin–Madison's essay requirements are strategically designed to assess a candidate's alignment with the university's educational ethos and academic vigor. These essays, transcending mere writing tasks, provide a window into an applicant's personality, intellectual curiosity, and potential impact on the university's dynamic community. In this context, UW Madison application essay examples can serve as invaluable guides, illustrating how to effectively engage with the essay prompts. These prompts encourage deep reflection on personal growth, academic objectives, and societal responsibilities, allowing students to demonstrate their suitability for the rigorous academic environment of UW–Madison. Engaging with the essence of these essays and crafting responses that resonate with the admissions committee are crucial for enhancing admission chances, underlining their significance in UW–Madison's holistic application process.

• Essays emphasize personal development, academic aspirations, and community involvement.
• Annually updated prompts reflect current topics and values.
• They provide a platform for students to express their individual viewpoints.

University of Wisconsin–Madison Admission Requirements

Securing admission to the esteemed University of Wisconsin–Madison involves fulfilling a range of stringent criteria. The university selects students who exhibit academic excellence, well-rounded personalities, leadership skills, and alignment with its core principles and culture. These criteria aim to identify not only academically adept students but also those ready to positively contribute to the campus community. Every application aspect, from scholastic achievements to extracurricular involvement and personal essays, undergoes thorough evaluation to ensure the selected candidates are ideally suited for UW–Madison's diverse and dynamic environment.

• High academic performance, evidenced in GPA and standardized tests.
• Diverse extracurricular engagement demonstrating leadership and initiative.
• Impactful personal statement and supplemental essays.
• Recommendation letters from academic or professional mentors.
• Proof of adherence to the university's values and ethos.

Role of UW-Madison Supplemental Essay Examples in Applications

UW-Madison supplemental essay examples in the application process is instrumental for prospective students. These examples serve as a vital guide, illustrating the depth of analysis, personal reflection, and writing quality expected by the University of Wisconsin–Madison. By studying these examples, applicants gain crucial insights into crafting essays that go beyond academic metrics, highlighting their unique personalities and experiences. Effective UW Madison supplemental essay examples showcase critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and an understanding of the university's core values, such as community engagement and academic excellence. They teach the art of storytelling and the importance of specific details for impactful narratives. While these examples are valuable resources, it's essential for applicants to maintain authenticity and originality in their essays. The examples should inspire, not be replicated, guiding students to produce essays that are true to their experiences and resonate with UW-Madison's ethos.

UW-Madison Supplemental Essay Examples: Prompts for 2023

Committed to a comprehensive and all-encompassing review process, UW–Madison has introduced several thought-provoking supplemental essay prompts for the 2023 cycle. These prompts aim to allow applicants to display various facets of their personalities, experiences, and future plans. The prompts are crafted to elicit responses that showcase the applicant's self-reflection abilities, challenges they've overcome, and their vision for the future. They also provide a glimpse into how applicants envision their contributions to the university community. Collectively, these prompts are vital in the application, offering a stage for applicants to persuasively argue why they are an excellent match for UW–Madison.

• Challenge and Growth: Applicants share a significant challenge they've overcome and the lessons learned, demonstrating resilience and personal growth.
• Academic and Career Aspirations: This prompt asks students to detail their goals and how UW–Madison can aid in achieving them, focusing on the alignment of the applicant's plans with the university's resources.
• Community Contribution: Applicants discuss how they plan to contribute to the UW–Madison community, showcasing their understanding of community values and social responsibility.

These prompts encourage applicants to provide thoughtful, personal responses, illustrating their readiness for university life and their potential to enrich the UW–Madison community. Effective responses range from narratives about overcoming personal adversities and articulating clear academic and career pathways to well-planned community engagement and leadership roles within the university.

Guidelines for Writing UW–Madison Supplemental Essays

Writing compelling supplemental essays for UW–Madison is a vital part of the application process. These essays offer an opportunity to stand out and show the admissions committee your unique identity beyond academic metrics. To gain a clearer perspective, reviewing University of Wisconsin Madison supplemental essay examples can be extremely beneficial. These examples provide practical insights into effective storytelling and structuring, helping you understand how to convey your experiences and aspirations authentically. Here are essential tips to help craft impactful and memorable essays, inspired by the strategies evident in University of Wisconsin Madison supplemental essay examples:

• Interpreting the Prompts: Carefully read and understand each essay prompt. Reflect on how your experiences and aspirations align with the questions posed.
• Self-Reflection: Engage in introspection about your experiences, challenges, and accomplishments. Authentic, self-aware essays often leave a lasting impression.
• Authentic Voice: Write in a manner that's true to your personality. Authenticity is crucial for connecting with the admissions officers.
• Specific Examples: Use detailed examples and stories to bring your essays to life. Specific experiences add depth and relatability to your narrative.
• Structured Approach: A well-organized essay with a clear beginning, middle, and end enhances readability and impact. Ensure your essay flows logically.

Remember, UW–Madison's supplemental essays are your chance to provide the admissions committee with a deeper understanding of your character, values, and ambitions. A well-crafted essay can significantly impact your application.

Leveraging UW–Madison Essay Examples for Success

UW–Madison essay examples are invaluable resources for understanding what the admissions committee seeks. These examples often showcase creativity, depth, and a strong connection with the university's values. Utilizing these essays as models can aid in developing your own narratives, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining originality and authenticity in your writing:

• Reflecting on Challenges and Growth at UW–Madison
• Learning from Failures: A Journey to Success
• Charting a Path in Environmental Advocacy
• Community Service: Lessons in Leadership
• The Influence of Personal Research on Academic Choices
• Promoting Educational Inclusivity: A Personal Mission
• Harmonizing Music with Academic and Career Goals
• Resilience: Turning Obstacles into Opportunities
• Embracing Multilingualism and Global Perspectives
• Envisioning Sustainable Practices at UW–Madison

Maximizing Impact with UW–Madison Essay Examples

In conclusion, UW–Madison essays are an integral part of the application, offering a platform for students to express their individuality and suitability for the university. To effectively navigate this crucial aspect, examining University of Wisconsin Madison essay examples can be incredibly instructive. These examples provide a clearer understanding of the expected caliber and style, aiding students in crafting their narratives. Understanding and adhering to the essay requirements, drawing inspiration from such examples, and infusing personal experiences and insights into your writing can significantly enhance your chances of admission. Remember, well-written essays, much like the University of Wisconsin Madison essay examples, can profoundly influence the admissions committee's decision, emphasizing the importance of dedicating time and effort to develop compelling, authentic stories.

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How to Write the UW–Madison Supplemental Essays 2024–2025

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The University of Wisconsin–Madison , home of the Badgers since 1848 , is known as a formidable research institution with high expectations for their applicants. Their storied alumni include Senator Tammy Baldwin, astronaut Laurel Clark, author Joyce Carol Oates, naturalist John Muir, and many others. Looking to become a Badger? First, you’ll need to write your UW-Madison supplemental essays. Let’s dive in.

University of Wisconsin–Madison’s 2024-2025 Prompts

UW-Madison asks for two essays, but you might only need to complete one of them. The first prompt is only applicable to students applying through the Universities of Wisconsin Application. So, if you’re applying through the Common App, you only need to worry about the second essay. The second essay is required for all applicants.

Note that although the essays can both extend to 650 words, the admissions team recommends planning for a 300-500 word essay. Keeping your essay(s) concise, at least in the initial draft(s), could enable you to add extra details in your later drafts if needed. Without further ado, here are the prompts for the UW-Madison supplemental essays:

Universities of Wisconsin Application Essay:

• Each student is unique. Please tell us about the particular life experiences, talents, commitments, and/or interests you will bring to our campus.

Required Essay for All Applicants:

• Tell us why you would like to attend the University of Wisconsin–Madison. In addition, please include why you are interested in studying the major(s) you have selected. If you selected undecided, please describe your areas of possible academic interest.

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General Tips

Both of these essays permit more words than the average college essay. Apart from the Common App personal essay, which has the same word count maximum of 650 words, most college essays tend to be less than 500 words, with most required to be less than 300. Therefore, the UW-Madison supplemental essays present some challenges, but also some freedoms.

With longer supplemental essays, students tend to either have trouble writing too much, or not writing enough. To tackle the first problem, it can be helpful to restrict yourself to a smaller word count for the first draft. Then, if you later realize anything essential is missing, you have the space to add it in. In order to keep the word count down, focus on avoiding passive voice, cutting down on your conjunctions (use punctuation marks instead), and using more concise verbs. For instance, “I thought” is more concise than “I was thinking.” Little changes like this one can help your whole essay shrink to fit the space it’s allotted.

To tackle the second issue of not writing enough, look for areas where the reader might have questions. If you have a description in your essay, make that description more vivid. If you jumped through a narrative, consider providing more of the interim steps. Remember, though, your essay can be 300 words without any penalty. As long as you comprehensively answer the question asked by the prompt, you’ll be okay.

Universities of Wisconsin Application Essay

Each student is unique. please tell us about the particular life experiences, talents, commitments, and/or interests you will bring to our campus. (650 words or fewer).

You choose: would you prefer to answer this essay prompt or complete a Common App personal essay? If you choose to write the Common App personal essay, skip ahead to the next prompt. Note that the latter is a more flexible option. Your Common App personal essay can be used for thousands of different college applications. That said, the admissions team at UW-Madison don’t maintain a preference for one essay over the other. The choice is yours.

If you choose to answer this prompt, you can approach it pretty similarly to how you would a Common App personal essay. In this particular essay, you have the opportunity to show who you are as a person. Specifically, you could write about an accomplishment you’ve achieved, a challenge you’ve overcome, an extracurricular you’ve pursued, an academic interest you hope to pursue at UW-Madison, etc. In other words, you’ll want to write about who you are, so that the reader knows who you’ll be at UW-Madison.

It’s advisable to focus on just a few life experiences, talents, commitments, and/or interests you possess, or even just one of these, versus listing answers to all of the above. Note that the prompt uses the wording “and/or.” This implies that you need not touch upon every item in the list provided.

When beginning this essay, you may want to start with an outline. You could write a narrative essay about a life experience you’ve had or a time when your talent(s) shone. Alternatively, you could describe a challenge you’ve overcome in order to pursue your commitments or interests. Most importantly, whether the topic of your essay is big or small, it should be meaningful to you.

University of Wisconsin–Madison Required Essay

Tell us why you would like to attend the university of wisconsin–madison. in addition, please include why you are interested in studying the major(s) you have selected. if you selected undecided, please describe your areas of possible academic interest. (650 words or fewer).

This is your “Why University of Wisconsin-Madison?” essay. For this kind of essay, research is your friend. First, identify your prospective area(s) of study. Then, look up specific courses, professors, programs, and other opportunities in your department(s) of interest that will be available to you if you attend UW-Madison. Next, identify any non-academic reasons that UW-Madison is a school on your college list. These reasons should be specific to UW – Madison . Lastly, structure your essay around these details that you have researched.

Ideally, your essay does not merely list the opportunities at UW-Madison to you. Instead, your essay goes a step further and expresses why these opportunities excite you and how these opportunities will help you achieve your goals. Your reasons for applying to UW-Madison should have some unique elements. Without any unique elements, the admissions team might not see why UW-Madison is a better fit for you than another school. In other words, you might leave the reader feeling that you are not eager to attend UW-Madison and excited about the education they offer.

Specificity is important in this essay. By sharing why you specifically would like to attend UW-Madison, and your specific reasons for wanting to attend, you demonstrate interest . According to UW-Madison’s Common Data Set , their admissions team does not track each student’s level of interest in attending the University. Therefore, this essay might be your only opportunity to show the UW–Madison admission team how excited you are to attend. Bring your passion for UW–Madison and your well-researched, specific pieces of information to this essay, and you’ll do great.

If you need help polishing up your UW-Madison supplemental essays, check out our College Essay Review service. You can receive detailed feedback from Ivy League consultants in as little as 24 hours.

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"Why University of Wisconsin"

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Tell us why you decided to apply to the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In addition, please include why you are interested in studying the major(s) you have selected. If you selected undecided please describe your areas of possible academic interest.

80 - 650 words

( University of Wisconsin-Madison )

Why This Essay Works:

• Shows They Know The School Well : This essay uses a lot of a great, specific references about UW Madison that show that the author has done their research and know the school well. Your reasons for applying in these "Why Us?" essays should be as specific as possible. This essay uses references to specific professors and their work, lab equipment ("biolayer interferometry"), courses, and features about campus. All of this works to create a compelling reason why this student would be a good fit, while also demonstrating strong interest in the school. When writing "Why Us" essays, doing your research to find unique and specific aspects is most important.
• Connects To Area Of Study : Even for "Why Us?" essays that don't explicitly ask you to write about your major, referencing your intended major is often a strong reason "why." By connecting what you want to study with what the school offers, you can show how your studies would be made even better. Admissions officers are trying to imagine how you'd fit into campus, so try showing them how you'd be engaged in the specific department. Researching the department is also a good idea, as often times it is easier to find unique qualities about a department (like "Biochemistry department") than it is to find about the school as a whole.
• Shows Personality And Humor : This essay starts off with a somewhat unserious introduction, referencing Wisconsin's reputation for cheese-making. Although this is casual and humorous, it serves as an engaging introduction into their main ideas about what the school offers. Using humor can show your personality, while also making it more fun for admissions officers to read. They'll be more likely to find your essay likable if you can include small moments of lightheartedness. This student also shows their personality through interjecting their thoughts (like this is doing here) using parentheses, which works to bring the reader into your thought process.

What They Might Change:

• Avoid Prefacing Your Ideas : In this intro, the author sets up three points that they use as criteria for what they want in a school. However, this ultimately ends up creating unnecessary repetition because they later they discuss each of those points in detail. In general, avoid prefacing your ideas or thoughts. That is, you don't have to "prepare" or "introduce" what you're about to say to the reader. Instead, it is usually more compelling to just start with those juicy details rather than setting them up.

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