How to Get into Emory: Tips on Essays, Activities, and Transfers

Emory University is a top-tier institution with an acceptance rate hovering around 11%, making it a competitive choice for many applicants. But as Hara, a human health major and College Contact mentor, shares, it’s not impossible to gain admission—whether you’re applying as a first-year or a transfer student. Through her personal journey, Hara offers valuable tips on crafting compelling essays, showcasing extracurricular activities, and building an application that stands out.

Below, you’ll also find Hara’s video, where she goes in-depth about her experience, including essay-writing advice, extracurricular highlights, and transfer-specific strategies.

Emory evaluates applicants through a holistic lens, meaning there’s no single formula for success. While strong grades and test scores are important, they’re only part of the picture. The admissions team looks for students who are intellectually curious, actively engaged in their communities, and passionate about their goals.

Hara’s journey to Emory exemplifies this approach. Though she transferred to Emory after her freshman year, her application stood out because of her balance of strong academics, meaningful extracurricular involvement, and authentic self-expression in her essays.

Extracurricular involvement is another critical aspect of the Emory application. Hara participated in a variety of activities in high school, from student council to National Honor Society (NHS), and even earned a secondary black belt in Taekwondo. While she admits to juggling many interests, her advice is to focus on a few key activities where you can demonstrate leadership and commitment.

Leadership, in particular, is a quality Emory values highly. Whether through student government, volunteering, or founding a club, showcasing your ability to take initiative and make a difference can strengthen your application. For example, Hara founded a mental health community outreach club after transferring to Emory, aligning with her passion for helping others and contributing to the university community.

Volunteering is equally important. Hara highlights that admissions officers look for students who not only excel academically but also give back to their communities. These experiences reflect your character and willingness to contribute to Emory’s campus culture.

Hara emphasizes that essays are the heart of the Emory application. While grades and activities show what you’ve done, essays reveal who you are. They’re your chance to connect with admissions officers on a personal level and stand out in a competitive applicant pool.

To write a compelling essay, Hara suggests focusing on passion. Your enthusiasm for Emory should come through in every sentence. Instead of simply listing achievements, dive into the “why” behind them—what excites you, what drives you, and how Emory fits into your vision for the future. Research the university’s programs, campus culture, and values to demonstrate your genuine interest.

Specificity is key. Hara’s supplemental essay, for instance, outlined her academic goals, the classes she wanted to take, and even the club she intended to start (which she later did). By being detailed, she showed not only her enthusiasm but also her thoughtful planning.

Avoid wasting words on information already available in your transcript or resume. Admissions officers want to hear your voice, not a recap of your application. Focus on new insights—your personal experiences, motivations, and dreams.

As a transfer student, Hara understands the unique challenges of applying to a new school. Her advice for transfers includes staying organized, maintaining strong grades, and being specific in your essays about why you’re seeking a change. Admissions teams want to know what you’ll bring to their university and how it aligns with your academic and personal goals.

Hara’s transfer essay stood out because it was authentic and forward-looking. She clearly articulated why Emory was the right fit for her and how she planned to make the most of her time there. For example, her mental health club idea showcased her initiative and alignment with Emory’s community-focused values.

When crafting your application, think about what makes Emory unique. The university is known for its rigorous academics, vibrant campus culture, and connection to Atlanta’s dynamic community. Highlighting these aspects in your essays can strengthen your application.

Hara’s experience underscores the importance of viewing college admissions as more than a competition. It’s about finding a place where you can thrive, contribute, and grow. Emory stood out to her because of its commitment to interdisciplinary learning and its emphasis on community engagement.

Applying to Emory, whether as a first-year or a transfer student, can feel overwhelming. But as Hara reminds us, the process is as much about finding the right fit for you as it is about impressing admissions officers. Authenticity is your greatest asset. Be yourself in your essays, highlight the activities that matter most to you, and don’t shy away from sharing your passions.

If you need more guidance, watch Hara’s video embedded above for additional tips and insights. Her journey is proof that with hard work and self-confidence, you can find your way to a school that truly feels like home. Remember, the right university will value you for who you are and what you bring to the table. Take a deep breath, trust the process, and know that you’re capable of achieving your goals.