How to Write UChicago’s Uncommon Essay: Guidance from a Current Student
Applying to the University of Chicago is an exciting challenge, especially when it comes to the supplemental essays. Known for its Uncommon Essay prompts, UChicago invites applicants to think creatively and showcase their unique personalities. These essays aren’t just a box to check; they’re an opportunity to explore who you are and why you belong at one of the most intellectually vibrant universities in the world.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to tackle the two main essays: the Uncommon Essay and the “Why UChicago?” prompt. Along the way, Maddie, a current UChicago psychology student, shares her insights and advice to help you navigate the process. Below, you’ll find the video where Maddie dives deeper into her tips and even shares excerpts from her own successful application.
Understanding UChicago’s Essay Prompts
The supplemental essays consist of two parts. First is the Uncommon Essay, which asks you to respond to one of UChicago’s famously unconventional prompts. These change every year, and you can either choose from the five provided or craft your own. The second is the “Why UChicago?” prompt, which remains consistent and asks you to articulate why you’re drawn to the university.
These essays might seem worlds apart, but they share a common goal: they’re designed to help admissions officers see beyond your GPA and extracurriculars. They want to understand what makes you tick—your passions, your perspective, and how your mind works.
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Crafting Your Uncommon Essay
The Uncommon Essay is your chance to have fun and take risks. Every year, UChicago releases a set of prompts that range from playful to deeply philosophical. For instance, you might be asked to create a new color-based idiom or estimate how many pages of books are housed in the Regenstein Library. Maddie recalls how her essay was inspired by a prompt exploring whether anything is truly original. She used it to talk about her passion for storytelling and how her favorite books, shows, and movies influenced her creative projects.
Finding the right prompt is a personal process. Start by reading all the options and reflecting on your experiences, interests, and quirks. The best prompt for you is the one that sparks an immediate connection, whether it’s a vivid memory, an idea you’re curious about, or a reflection on something you love. Maddie emphasizes that this connection doesn’t have to be profound. It can be as simple as a childhood hobby or a thought-provoking question you’ve pondered while scrolling through social media.
Once you’ve chosen a prompt, focus on crafting a response that reveals your personality and thought process. Maddie’s essay intertwined her creative journey with her reflections on originality, ultimately concluding that art is a collaborative conversation across time. This approach not only showcased her creative side but also demonstrated her ability to think critically and connect abstract ideas.
Writing a Standout “Why UChicago?” Essay
The “Why UChicago?” essay asks you to explain why you’re drawn to the university and how it fits into your academic and personal goals. The admissions team wants to see that you’ve done your research and genuinely envision yourself thriving on campus. Maddie recalls how she started her essay by exploring UChicago’s offerings online, diving into the Core Curriculum and researching classes that aligned with her budding interests.
While it’s fine to include general enthusiasm for the school, specificity is key. Imagine yourself as a student at UChicago. What classes, programs, or activities excite you? How will they help you achieve your goals? Maddie brought her essay to life by describing her first visit to campus. She vividly painted a picture of walking through the gates, imagining herself studying in the Regenstein Library and visiting student-run coffee shops.
This essay is also a space to reflect on how UChicago’s culture resonates with you. Maddie shared how she admired the school’s intellectual rigor and how it challenged her to dream bigger. Her essay was deeply personal, and she wrote with such specificity that even if she’d removed the name “UChicago,” it would still have been clear which school she was describing.
Making Your Essays Shine
Both essays require thoughtful self-reflection and an authentic voice. Don’t worry about trying to sound overly sophisticated or writing what you think admissions officers want to hear. Instead, focus on writing something that feels true to you. Maddie emphasizes the importance of letting your personality shine through. For the Uncommon Essay, she encourages you to take risks and trust your instincts. For the “Why UChicago?” essay, channel your excitement and show how you see yourself contributing to and growing within the UChicago community.
The goal of these essays is to add depth to your application. Admissions officers have already seen your grades and extracurriculars. What they’re looking for now is a window into who you are—your passions, your curiosity, and your unique perspective.
Final Thoughts
Writing UChicago’s essays might feel intimidating at first, but they’re also a chance to celebrate your individuality. Maddie’s journey shows that with a bit of creativity and a lot of honesty, these essays can become some of the most rewarding parts of your application. Use this opportunity to reflect on what excites you most about learning and how UChicago can help you pursue your dreams.
If you’re feeling stuck, revisit Maddie’s video above for more inspiration and practical advice. Remember, these essays are as much about self-discovery as they are about impressing admissions officers. Dive in, explore your ideas, and let your unique voice shine.
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