Crafting a “Why Major” Essay
The why major essay is one of the most common types of essays found in the college application requirements. Why is it a favorite among colleges? Well, it help the college know which college majors its applicants are planning to pursue. It also allows the admissions committee to see how the applicant plans to use their major in the future. Good why major essay examples will demonstrate the applicant’s passion for their subject. They will also showcase the student’s knowledge of the school’s specific offerings and how they’ll benefit from them.
Many applicants may struggle when trying to approach the why major essay. Some students simply struggle with essay writing no matter the prompt. And those who are undecided on their college major may find it particularly difficult to answer this prompt. However, reading college essay examples will allow students to understand what it takes to write a strong essay. Even reading a why this college essay sample can help students get started in the process.
In this article, we will go over how to craft a strong why major essay, even if you are an undecided student. We will review the different colleges that require why major essay examples. And we’ll talk about how to tailor a why major essay to a specific college. Additionally, we’ll show some why major essay examples and explain why those were college essays that worked. Finally, we’ll share some tips you can use to improve your why major essay, making it as strong as the why major essay examples featured in this article.
But first, let’s better define the subject at hand: the why major essay.
What is a “Why Major” Essay?
A why major essay is an essay that asks students to explain their interest in a particular field of study. Some colleges require all students to answer these prompts. But others might only require them for certain disciplines, such as a why engineering essay or why music essay. The prompts for why major college essay examples are similar, but not identical. Some categories include why did you choose this major essay examples and why this major essay example.
A why major essay is often a supplemental prompt on a school’s college application, similar to a why this college essay sample. These types of college essay examples are often shorter than the Common Application essay. You’ll note that college essays that worked to gain students admission to top schools will always fully answer the prompt, within the specified word limit. This means you might have to be concise with your answers. Later, we will review why major essay examples for reference.
10 Top Schools that Require a “Why Major” Essay
Keep in mind that not all schools require a why major essay. The why did you choose this major essay examples we will go over later represent a few of the top schools that require a why major essay from students. Below we have a list of the 10 schools that include a why major essay as part of their application process:
Top 10 Schools that Require a “Why Major” Essay
1. Princeton University
All applicants must complete a why major essay. But, there is a specific why engineering essay requirement for those applying to that specific discipline. We will see a few college essay examples from Princeton later on in the article.
2. Cornell University
You’ll notice that Cornell why major college essay examples are tailored to the specific college the student is applying to. This means that there are eight different why major essay prompts for students to respond to.
3. Columbia University
The why major essay is one of five essays that Columbia requires. There is also a why this college essay requirement. So, if interested in applying to Columbia, you’ll want to read a why major example and why this college essay sample.
4. Yale University
Essentially, Yale has a two-part why major essay. First, students must identify three academic areas of interest, and then they will have to expand upon one of them.
5. University of Pennsylvania
Similar to Cornell, UPenn has a why major essay specific to each of its schools. For example, if you’re planning on applying to the School of Engineering and Applied Science, you’ll write a why engineering essay.
6. Rice University
Rice requires a why this major essay example among its three supplemental essay questions. Students applying to Rice also have the opportunity to share a photo that is meaningful to them as part of their application
7. Emory University
Emory requires all applicants to submit a why major essay. Luckily, they have a blog with college essay examples for you to see college essays that worked to gain students admission.
8. University of Michigan
UMichigan asks students to reflect on why they are applying to a specific School of College. Additionally, admissions wants to know how that program will help them pursue their passions.
9. University of North Carolina
UNC has quite an open-ended prompt as their why major essay requirement. Students will simply reflect on an academic topic that they wish to pursue at UNC. This could be anything from research interests to a specific course.
10. Georgia Institute of Technology
Last on our list, Georgia Tech asks students to expand on their choice of major. Similar to the other schools we’ve mentioned, they want to know why Georgia Tech is the best place for you to pursue your chosen major.
Choosing your College Major
Before diving into reading why major essay examples, it is important to think about what major you want to pursue. Logically, this will be the main topic of your essay. Keep in mind that college majors vary from school to school. As such, your college majors of interest will affect your college list. When thinking about your college major, it is important to consider your current interests while also thinking about your future goals.
First, think about which high school classes you enjoyed the most. These will often, but not always, be classes you earned strong grades in. In addition to your classes, think about your experiences outside of the classroom. Consider your extracurriculars–do they link to a specific academic area? For example, maybe being on the robotics team was the highlight of your high school experience. As such, you might look into a major in engineering.
Then, think about the career path you might want to pursue and how your major might help you get there. Some careers, such as nursing or engineering, lend themselves to very specific college majors. This puts students on the path toward those professions. Other fields, like law or education, have a wide range of college majors that students may pursue. If you don’t know exactly what career you want to have, that’s ok! Simply think about a major that will set you up with skills that you can use in a wide variety of jobs.
Choosing a college major can feel overwhelming. For additional information on how to make the decision, read this guide or watch this webinar!
Why Major Essay Examples
The next sections will cover different why major essay examples from a variety of colleges. We will include the full text of each of these college essays that worked. We’ll also provide explanations for why these college essay examples were successful. Think of these why major college essay examples as models that you can use when crafting your own why major essay.
Why Major Essay – Columbia University
Our first why this major essay example comes from Columbia University. The writer of this why major essay showcases their passion for journalism. Let’s check out our first why major essay example:
Columbia University “Why Major” Essay Example #1
During my high school career, I devoted much of my time to journalism, a craft which I believed encompassed things I’m passionate about. I practiced my photography and storytelling, and on staff, our main mission was coverage. We sought to cover all students, not just the student body president or quarterback. In doing so, I learned how to reach out, tell, and share the stories of those who otherwise would remain silent. I believe this storytelling and way of using my voice attracted me to the field of urban studies. The connections between the places one inhabits, and how that in turn affects virtually all factors of their lives, is a story. It is woven in the DNA of our cities and citizens, and I am passionate about sharing these stories and gaining more insight. Interviewing students at my school allowed me to better see my community, as I saw not only who composed my school, but what they were passionate about. I hope to do the same work in the field of international affairs by representing my community: all people. Journalism allowed me to acutely feel the emotions of people and tell their story authentically.
Why this essay worked
The writer of this essay uses specific examples to show how their passion for journalism inspired other interests. Specifically, we see the writer’s interest in storytelling. Namely, they are passionate about giving a voice to those who might otherwise not have one. We clearly see that the writer has developed a myriad of skills from journalism: interviewing, photography, storytelling, and researching. In true journalistic fashion, the essay contains vivid details and evocative phrases like “woven into the DNA of our cities and citizens.” This language draws readers in and showcases the student’s writing abilities and style.
The essay concludes by looking ahead to the writer’s future at Princeton. They describe how pursuing a major in international affairs will help them accomplish the goal of continuing to seek out and report on important stories. The student seamlessly integrates their love of journalism with their interest in international relations. In doing so, they create a compelling picture of the type of Princeton student they will be. Readers of this essay are left with no doubt of the author’s passion for journalism and commitment to their choice of major.
Our second why this major essay example also comes from Columbia but is a why engineering essay. Let’s take a look:
Columbia University “Why Major” Essay Example #2
Columbia Engineering’s comprehensive financial engineering program is the primary reason why I applied. Its impressive curriculum covers just about every topic, ranging from data engineering to asset price theory. I am most interested in the Data Analytics and Machine Learning (IEOR E4212) course, where I can put into use my knowledge of Python, and see its application to data engineering and its practicability in the financial world. Asset pricing methods and numerical analytics are both topics that I look forward to learning about.
I am particularly interested in the research opportunities within this major, such as the research in Optimization theory. The Optimization theory research opportunity goes into detail about important topics such as matching markets and financial & business analytics, which are areas I want to work in the future.
Why this essay worked
This essay’s strength lies in its thorough research and clear articulation of the author’s specific interests. In the first paragraph, the writer names specific subjects at Columbia that they want to take. The student also mentions how those classes will help them build on their existing knowledge. These kinds of details require research into the school. These details show the admissions committee that the writer has seriously considered their future at Columbia.
In the second paragraph, the writer continues to build their case for admission, commenting on specific research topics that they want to engage in. This shows Columbia that they would be a good fit for their financial engineering program, bringing both skills and passion to their studies. By going into their specific qualifications, the author sets themself apart from other applicants. They make it clear why Columbia specifically appeals to them. A good why major essay demonstrates interest in the subject matter and the college itself.
Why Major Essay – Princeton University
Our next why this major essay example comes from Princeton University. It also comes from an engineering applicant.
Princeton University “Why Major” Essay Example #1
One of my valuable engineering experiences is the Rutgers University WINLAB internship. In the First Person View Self-Driving Car project, we had to assemble hardware to produce a car model that would be compatible with the given software. Using that software, we had to code and revise programs to control the car effectively from our computers. Even though I had knowledge from taking college courses such as CSCI S-38 at the Harvard Summer School, I found the practical application of computing knowledge in this project to be much more sophisticated than I anticipated, and model revisions that would work in theory did not produce the anticipated result. Since then, I have continued to be fascinated by the practical engineering aspects of STEM.
Why this essay worked
The author of this essay shows their passion for engineering by describing both a significant internship and summer course. These specific examples show readers that this applicant comes with existing experience and is looking forward to gaining more at Princeton. This essay works because it highlights the author’s prior credentials and their desire to further their knowledge.
A good why major essay does not talk exclusively about the major itself, but how you plan to use the knowledge gained in that major. This essay strikes a wonderful balance between describing the author’s past accomplishments and future plans. The author also does well to indicate that they are prepared to rise to the challenges of college, showing that they are not put off by setbacks. This resilience is important, especially in a demanding field like engineering where failure is an expected and natural part of learning.
Our final why this major essay example also comes from Princeton University. This is a different kind of why engineering essay that focuses on financial engineering.
Princeton University “Why Major” Essay Example #2
Princeton University has some of the highest-quality programs in the nation. As someone aiming to be a financial engineer, I am most interested in the Financial Econometrics and Financial Engineering Laboratories. The research done in the Financial Econometrics Laboratory, like building financial models, testing financial economics theory, and simulating financial systems, involves practical applications to financial engineering topics and does not limit the students to theoretical work. As I have learned from past experience, real-life STEM applications are much more sophisticated to work out than the theories would indicate, and the experience gained from these labs will be much more important for my future career than simple lectures.
Why this essay worked
Like the essays we have examined before, this essay shows strong evidence of research and highlights the writer’s qualifications for entering the financial engineering program. The author clearly articulates their career goals in the second sentence. Then they outline how the Princeton program and facilities will help them accomplish those goals. Beyond that, the author shows familiarity with multiple specific details about Princeton’s program. This shows demonstrated interest in the school, an important trait for any application.
The author also does well to outline the specific qualities of the Princeton financial engineering program that appeal to them, highlighting research opportunities. These details show that the student understands the goals of the college and the program they have chosen to pursue.
How to write a Why Major Essay
As the why did you choose this major essay examples have shown, there are a few techniques that can strengthen your why major essay. Whether it’s a why engineering essay or or general why major essay, these techniques will help! Here are a few takeaways from these college essays that worked:
Make the essay about you
In all the why major college essay examples, the writers focused on themselves, their interests, and what they plan to accomplish in their chosen field. Even though the prompt seems to be more about college majors, what admissions officers really want to know is what draws you to that field and what you would do with it. Your why major essay should allow the college to get to know you, highlighting your personality rather than saying what you think the college wants to hear.
Demonstrate some research into the college
The why major essay examples include specific details about the programs they are referencing, including the names of classes and research topics under investigation. These details show the college that you are familiar with their offerings and have seriously considered why you want to study this major at their school. When you are writing your own why major college essay sample, think about why that college’s program is a good fit for you.
Showcase what you would contribute to the college community
Colleges are not looking for cookie cutter applicants with identical resumes and perfect grades. Instead, they want to build a dynamic and diverse class filled with students who will take full advantage of the resources available to them. In your why major essay, you should describe your future interests and show how the college will help you pursue them. Remember, college essays show admissions not only why you want to attend the school, but also why they should want you on campus!
What to avoid in your “Why Major” Essay
Just as the college essay examples shared common strengths, there are also some common weaknesses of why major essay examples. Here are some examples of things to avoid in your why major essay:
Don’t repeat your extracurricular activities list.
Your why major essay should be a focused response written in paragraph form rather than a list of accomplishments or resume. Some why major essay examples try to fit too many themes in one response. Basically, they end up rehashing their extracurricular activities list. Focus instead on subjects related to your intended major to create a cohesive response.
Don’t try to be someone you are not.
No college majors are inherently better than others. So, when writing your why major essay, write about your passions and interests rather than a major you think is more impressive. Remember that you will be pursuing your major over the course of four years. While it is possible to change your major later on, your why major essay should reflect your actual academic interests. Using your authentic voice to explain why you love your chosen major is the way to go! If you are undecided, see the next section for tips on how to write a why major essay as an undecided student.
Don’t wait until the last minute to start.
Good why major essay examples take time to create. So, be sure to leave yourself enough time to write multiple drafts and refine your work as needed. Take the time to thoroughly research the school and programs of interest. Additionally, allot time to edit your essay for spelling and grammar. You won’t be able to write a single why major essay and then send it to every college that requires one. You’ll need to tailor the essay for every school. This takes time–but, it’s what will make your essays stand out in the end!
Advice for Undeclared Majors
In the why did you choose this major examples we have seen so far, the writers have known their intended majors. However, even students who are undecided may have to write a why major essay. This does not mean you are committing to study a major you’re simply interested in. Students may change their major or add a second major once they get into the college. However, it is still important to write a focused and compelling essay that will help convince the college to admit you.
Focus on what excites you.
First of all, think about a few different subjects that excite you. For example, you might be interested in math and computers, but aren’t sure if you want study a math, engineering, or computer science major. Or you may have a passion for learning languages but are unsure of which one to pursue as your major. Think about connecting your interests together to give the college a sense of what you want to do with your education, even if you have not landed on a specific major yet.
Emphasize your skills.
In addition, highlight your skills rather than a specific academic area. If, for example, you can showcase that you are an avid researcher, you can then apply those skills to any of the interests you bring to the table. Or perhaps you are a strong writer and might want to pursue a field where you can demonstrate that ability. You can talk about that in your why this major essay example.
Remember that all the college essay examples we have seen so far include both references to the writer’s intended major and references to past experiences that have shaped that interest. For undecided majors, the why major essay is a chance to reflect on your skills and how to grow them in different ways.
More Why Major Essay Examples
You can never read too many why major essay examples when starting your college application journey. So, let’s take a look at our last why this major essay example written by a student with a clear major in mind.
Additional “Why Major” Essay Example
In the intricate tapestry of academic pursuits, the choice to major in politics holds a unique allure— a blend of curiosity, passion, and a desire to enact change. At its core, the study of politics offers a lens through which to examine the complexities of governance, power dynamics, and societal structures. But what drives someone to embark on this intellectual journey?
For many, including myself, the decision to major in politics stems from a deeply personal connection to the world around them. Growing up amidst the turmoil of war-torn Colombia, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact of political decisions on individuals and communities. These experiences ignited within me a fervent desire to understand the mechanisms of power and to advocate for those marginalized by failed political systems.
Yet, beyond personal experience, the allure of politics lies in its ability to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of the human condition. Through the study of political theory, comparative politics, and international relations, students are challenged to grapple with complex issues and develop innovative solutions to pressing global challenges.
Moreover, a major in politics offers a gateway to a diverse array of career opportunities, ranging from public service and policy analysis to law, journalism, and advocacy. Whether pursuing a career in government, nonprofit organizations, or the private sector, the skills gained through a political science education are invaluable in navigating the complexities of the modern world.
Ultimately, the decision to major in politics is not merely about acquiring knowledge but about empowering oneself to effect positive change. It is about embracing the complexities of the political landscape and harnessing them as catalysts for innovation and progress. As I embark on this academic journey, I am inspired by the belief that through education, dedication, and a commitment to justice, we can build a brighter and more equitable future for all.
Why This Essay Worked
This is the longest of the why this essay examples that we’ve seen. The student does an excellent job of taking advantage of the more generous word limit. First, we are captivated by the hook which is well written and certainly makes a politics major sound interesting.
After simply introducing it as their major of choice in the first paragraph, the student goes on to explain how their background and experiences have inspired them to pursue this major. We learn a lot about the writer–namely that they’re from Colombia and grew up in a violent political climate. That first-hand experience certainly influenced the student’s choice of major.
Interestingly enough, in this essay, the student doesn’t commit to specifying a career path. Rather, they allude to all the possible pathways they could take upon graduating with a major in politics. They don’t specify their future profession, as they probably aren’t sure of that yet. However, they do state the most important part of being a politics major to them: inciting positive change. In doing this, the reader knows that the student will likely be an active community participant on campus. Justice and equality is important to them. All of these pieces of the essay create an impressive picture for the reader.
Optimizing your Why Major Essay – Tips and Tricks
These why did you choose this major essay examples may seem daunting to replicate. But, everyone has the ability to write a strong why major essay. The aim is not to copy the college essay examples we have gone over. Instead, they should serve as a guide from which to craft your own essay. Here are three final tips for optimizing your why major essay:
Read it out loud.
It may sound silly to sit down and read your own writing aloud. But, it is extremely helpful in the editing process. You may catch typos or incorrect grammar as you read, allowing you to polish the work so the reader isn’t distracted by mechanical errors. It is also easier to hear any awkward sentences or rough transitions when listening to your work. You can even get a parent or friend to be a reader or second listener.
Get feedback from trusted sources.
Once you have written your first draft, feel free to show it to parents, teachers, or trusted friends. They cannot and should not write your essay for you. However, they may be able to offer insights into your writing and ask thoughtful questions to guide you through the process. They may even be able to help you come up with a topic or decide what college majors you want to write about if you are undecided. Talking about your essay with others is a great way to overcome writer’s block and strengthen your overall response.
Seek out help from trained professionals.
The advisors at CollegeAdvisor.com have years of experience working with students on supplemental essays. Whether you’re writing a why major essay, why this college essay sample, or any other supplemental essay, our expert advisors can help you with every step of the process. From brainstorming topics to making final edits, they’re here to support you. They can even help you form a college list or decide what you might want to major in! College essays, and the college application process in general, can be overwhelming. Create an account to learn more about working with our team of advisors.
This article was written by senior advisor, Alex Baggott-Rowe. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.
