how to write the bowdoin supplemental essay

How to Write the Bowdoin Supplemental Essays

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 8/14/23

If you’re applying to Bowdoin, you’ll need to know how to tackle their supplemental essay. Read on to learn more about the Bowdoin prompt, how to answer it, and to see examples to draw inspiration from!

The Bowdoin supplemental essay is optional, but you’re highly encouraged to answer it, as it serves as an additional platform to showcase your personality, passions, and unique perspective beyond what your application already covers.

It's an opportunity to strengthen your application further and demonstrate how your values align with the college's community and mission! So, now that we’ve convinced you to write this optional essay , let’s delve into how to ensure your essay stands out and leaves a lasting impression on the admissions committee!

Bowdoin Essay Prompt

Bowdoin only has one supplemental essay prompt :

“The Offer of the College represents Bowdoin’s values. You have the option to reflect on the line selected and how it has meaning to you. Here is the Offer :

Generations of students have found connection and meaning in Bowdoin’s ‘The Offer of the College.’

To be at home in all lands and all ages;

To count Nature a familiar acquaintance, and Art an intimate friend;

To gain a standard for the appreciate of others’ work

And the criticism of your own;

To carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket,

And feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake;

To make hosts of friends…Who are to be leaders in all walks of life;

To lose yourself in generous enthusiasms

And cooperate with others for common ends -

This is the offer of the college for the best four years of your life.”

Your answer to this prompt must be short! With a 250-word limit , it’s crucial you keep your response focused, precise, and to the point!

How to Write the Bowdoin Supplemental Essay

So, how do you ensure you make the most out of these 250 words? Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to crafting a compelling and concise essay!

Step One: Fully Understand "The Offer"

Before you begin crafting your Bowdoin supplemental essay response, read “the Offer” several times to truly immerse yourself in it. Take time to understand the profound values and ideals the poem aims to capture.

Go beyond the surface meaning and try to read between the lines, discerning the deeper values and ideals that underpin Bowdoin's educational philosophy. 

Step Two: Choose the Line that Speaks to Your Soul

As the prompt states, you can only choose one line to center your answer on, so choose wisely! Among these inspiring lines, one must have resonated with you on a deeper level. 

Listen to your intuition to select the line that encapsulates your aspirations and reasons for applying to Bowdoin. Perhaps it's the longing "to be at home in all lands and all ages," or the desire to "carry the keys of the world's library in your pocket." Trust your instincts and choose the line that evokes a genuine emotional response within you.

Do not simply choose the line that you believe will be the easiest to explain. Choose the path less traveled to show off your impressive critical thinking and writing skills!

Step Three: Reflect on the Meaning Behind Your Chosen Line

Now comes the moment of reflection. Delve into the reasons behind your connection to the chosen line. Explore how it has influenced your personal growth, shaped your worldview, or sparked a passion within you. 

Briefly share personal anecdotes or experiences that illustrate the impact this line has had on your life. Be vulnerable and sincere in expressing why this line speaks to your soul! But, keep the word limit in mind. 

Do not create a laundry list of all the experiences that tie into this line. Choose one or two that stick out the most and focus on connecting these experiences to your chosen line. 

Step Four: Make Your Essay Personal and Vivid

As you write your essay, remember that authenticity is key. Infuse your response with your unique voice, style, and personality. Use vivid language, descriptive imagery, and storytelling to bring your essay to life. 

Captivate the reader with your insightful reflections and consider showing instead of just telling!

Step Five: Connect with Bowdoin's Values

Your response should not only showcase your personal connection to the chosen line but also demonstrate your alignment with Bowdoin's values and mission. Illustrate how your chosen line reflects the shared ideals and principles between you and Bowdoin. 

Emphasize how Bowdoin's vibrant intellectual community and commitment to diversity resonate deeply with your own values and aspirations and show that you’ve deeply considered your college choice!

Step Six: Emphasize Your Potential Contributions

Bowdoin seeks students who will make meaningful contributions to its community. Articulate how your chosen line reflects your potential contributions to Bowdoin's campus life, academic pursuits, and extracurricular involvements. 

Highlight how your passion for exploration, collaboration, and leadership can enrich the Bowdoin experience for all. Share one or two concrete examples of how you plan to engage with Bowdoin's resources, programs, and organizations.

Step Seven: Remember to Keep It Concise

While you may be overwhelmed by how many attributes you should add to your essay, know that each component should only be a couple of sentences long! Keep your ideas as concise as possible, and avoid using unnecessary language that will waste valuable space!

Step Eight: Edit, Edit, Edit

Once you've poured your thoughts onto the page, take a step back and revise your essay. Reread your response with a critical eye, ensuring clarity and coherence.

Trim any repetitive parts and focus on conveying your ideas concisely. Use strong and effective language to make your points, and ensure that your essay flows smoothly from start to finish. 

Don’t be afraid to start over if you feel like your essay fails to convey your voice! You may need to write multiple drafts until you’re confident you’ve written the best essay possible!

Step Nine: Seek Feedback and Refine

Share your essay with trusted individuals—friends, family, or teachers. Seek their honest feedback and insights. Embrace constructive criticism and use it to refine and strengthen your response. 

A fresh set of eyes is more likely to catch mistakes, pick up on awkward sentences, and offer ways to further polish your essay!

Step Ten: Stay True to Yourself

As you write your Bowdoin supplemental essay, remember that this essay is an opportunity to showcase your authentic self. Don't feel pressured to conform or write what you think the admissions committee wants to hear. Be genuine, celebrate your individuality, and let your true self shine through in every word!

Bowdoin Supplemental Essay Examples

Here are some compelling Bowdoin supplemental essay examples to act as aids in your writing journey!

Example One

"I’ve called several places home over the last 10 years. First, it was my birthplace Kerala, then Delhi, briefly Yanbu, and finally Maine. Accordingly, the line “To be at home in all lands and all ages" resonates with me profoundly. This line encapsulates my journey of embracing diverse cultures, bridging gaps between traditions, and finding a sense of belonging in unfamiliar territories.

I have faced the challenge of adapting to new environments several times, and this line reminded me of the value in cultivating a global perspective. Moreover, this line reminds me of the importance of immersing myself in the cultural tapestry of my surroundings. By embracing diversity, I discovered a shared humanity that binds us all together. This understanding has influenced my academic pursuits, leading me to explore courses that delve into the histories and traditions of different societies.

As an immigrant, I recognize the privilege of having access to a wealth of knowledge and perspectives from around the globe. This drives me to seize every chance to learn and contribute, embracing education as a means of breaking down barriers and making a positive impact in the world.

"To be at home in all lands and all ages" encapsulates my immigrant experience—a journey of growth, intercultural understanding, and embracing the richness of diverse perspectives. Embracing this ethos, I am eager to contribute to Bowdoin's vibrant community, to learn from and with my peers, and to be a bridge-builder between cultures and ideas for the betterment of our shared future."

Why It Works

This Bowdoin supplemental essay works for several reasons:

• Engaging introduction : The essay starts with a captivating introduction that immediately grabs the reader's attention. This creates a sense of curiosity and sets the stage for discussing the line that resonates with them the most.
• Addresses the prompt : They respond to the prompt by stating that the line "To be at home in all lands and all ages" profoundly resonates with the applicant. Students often get distracted by the essay itself and forget to follow the prompt! They often discuss more than one line or analyse the entire poem!
• Includes personal experiences : The applicant delves into their personal experience as an immigrant, explaining how they have adapted to multiple environments and cultures. They link this experience to the idea of cultivating a global perspective, emphasizing the importance of embracing diversity.
• Shares their academic goals : The essay discusses how the line relates to the applicant's academic pursuits of exploring courses that delve into the histories of different societies. This shows their commitment to broadening their understanding and engaging with diverse perspectives.
• Recognizes the applicant’s privilege and purpose : It demonstrates the applicant's awareness of the privilege they have as an immigrant with access to a wealth of knowledge from around the world. It shows their driven approach to education, viewing it as a tool for breaking down barriers and making an impact.
• Embraces Bowdoin’s values : Throughout the essay, the applicant repeatedly emphasizes how the line aligns with their values and beliefs, encapsulating their growth, intercultural understanding, and commitment to embracing diverse perspectives. This demonstrates a genuine connection to the college's mission.
• Looks forward : The essay concludes by expressing the applicant's eagerness to contribute to Bowdoin's vibrant community, learn from their peers, and be a bridge-builder between cultures and ideas. This forward-looking approach showcases their enthusiasm for being a part of Bowdoin's community.

Overall, this response is well-structured, concise, and directly addresses the prompt. It effectively communicates the applicant's unique experiences, values, and aspirations, making a compelling case for why they are an ideal fit for Bowdoin College!

Example Two

“Knowledge is what separates good doctors from excellent ones. If you want to be an excellent physician, Delilah, you need to apply yourself and commit to learning.” These are the words that have stuck with me since I received my first D in my freshman year Biology class after I admittedly gave my studies 70% of my attention instead of 100%.  

Ever since that pivotal moment, my attention has been directed towards the unwavering pursuit of knowledge and continuous learning, which is why the line “To carry the keys of the world's library in your pocket" resonates with me.

In the vast realm of medicine, knowledge is not only power but also the key to unlocking doors that lead to healing and understanding. The library, in this context, symbolizes the wealth of medical knowledge and resources that I aim to carry with me throughout my academic pursuits and professional career.

This line represents a lifelong commitment to learning and continuous improvement. In the rapidly evolving field of medicine, staying abreast of new discoveries and advancements is essential. As a pre-med Bowdoin student, I aspire to immerse myself in the vast resources available to me, forge meaningful connections with like-minded peers and mentors, and ultimately become a healthcare leader who makes a positive impact on the lives of patients and the broader community. 

Bowdoin's values of intellectual curiosity, service, and leadership align seamlessly with my aspirations, and I eagerly anticipate embracing this enriching academic environment."

This answer to the Bowdoin supplemental essay prompt works exceptionally well because it showcases the applicant's personal connection to the college's core values and future aspirations. Here are the most successful parts of this essay:

• Captivating hook : The essay uses a unique hook by sharing harsh words spoken to them by a teacher that has stuck with them and influenced their perspective on learning.
• Passion and commitment : The essay exudes a genuine passion for the medical field and emphasizes the applicant's unwavering commitment to continuous learning. This passion is evident in their determination to “carry the keys of the world's library” and seek knowledge to become the best physician.
• Reflective and self-aware : The applicant demonstrates a high level of self-awareness by acknowledging their past academic challenges and using them as a catalyst for growth. This reflective aspect of the essay adds depth to their character and showcases their ability to learn from experiences.
• Clear career goals : By stating their aspiration to become a healthcare leader who positively impacts patients and the broader community, the applicant presents a clear vision of their future role in the medical field. This clarity highlights their sense of purpose and commitment to making a difference.
• Involves Bodwon’s mission : Throughout the essay, the applicant aligns their personal values and ambitions with Bowdoin's mission, emphasizing how they will actively contribute to and enrich the college's academic and social environment.
• Unique voice : The applicant's writing style and voice add a personal touch to the essay, making it stand out and allowing the admissions committee to connect with their story on a deeper level.
• Evident research and understanding : The essay showcases the applicant's research and knowledge of Bowdoin's values, illustrating that they have taken the time to understand the college's culture and align themselves accordingly.

This essay has an engaging narrative that demonstrates the student’s passion and interests. It shows clear direction and effectively demonstrates their potential to thrive in Bowdoin's community!

FAQs: Bowdoin Supplemental Essay

For any remaining questions about the Bowdoin supplemental essay, read on to find your answers!

1. How Many Supplemental Essays Does Bowdoin Require?

There is only one optional Bowdoin supplemental essay.

2. How Important Is the Bowdoin Supplemental Essay?

Since the supplemental essay is optional, it won’t necessarily make or break your application. However, writing the essay can be beneficial as it will demonstrate the following:

• Interest and fit : Writing the supplemental essay shows that the applicant has taken the time to research Bowdoin and understand its values and culture. By addressing specific aspects of the college in their essay, applicants can demonstrate their genuine interest in attending Bowdoin and fit.
• Personal insight : Applicants can provide a more personal and nuanced perspective of themselves beyond what can be conveyed through test scores and academic records. It offers an opportunity for students to share their unique experiences, aspirations, and challenges. 
• Differentiation : The application process is highly competitive, and many applicants have strong academic records and extracurricular achievements . A well-crafted supplemental essay can set an applicant apart from others, helping them stand out as a unique and compelling candidate.
• Writing skills : The supplemental essay evaluates an applicant's writing skills, clarity of thought, and ability to articulate ideas concisely. Effective communication is a valuable skill in college, and the essay provides a platform for applicants to showcase their proficiency in this area.

Ultimately, the Bowdoin supplemental essay lets applicants present themselves beyond their academic credentials and convey their unique qualities and aspirations!

2. How Long Should the Bowdoin Supplemental Essay Be?

You have a 250-word limit on your Bowdoin essay, and you’ll likely need to reach this maximum to fully explain the meaning of your chosen line! 

3. How Do I Ensure My Bowdoin Supplemental Essay Stands Out?

Here are some tips to make your Bowdoin essay shine:

• Make it personal : Start by genuinely reflecting on the quote from "The Offer of the College" and how it resonates with your own experiences and values. Make a personal connection to the quote and let your passion for the topic shine through in your writing.
• Open with a hook : Start your essay with an intriguing hook that will urge the admissions committee to read on. Consider using a quote that resonates with you, a short anecdote that relates to your story, or a philosophy you live by!
• Offer a unique perspective : Avoid generic responses and focus on what makes your perspective and story unique. Consider what sets you apart from other applicants and how your experiences have shaped your aspirations and values.
• Avoid vagueness : Use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate your points. Show, don't just tell the admissions committee about your journey and how you embody the values expressed in the quote. Be descriptive and think outside of the box!
• Share your goals : Use the essay as an opportunity to highlight your future goals and how your time at Bowdoin will help you achieve them. Emphasize how the college's resources, community, and values align with your aspirations.
• Be authentic : Write in your own voice and be true to yourself. Avoid trying to fit into any preconceived mold of what an applicant "should" be like. Let your personality and passions come through in your writing.
• Avoid clichés : Stay away from overused phrases or clichés—the admissions committee has seen it all before and won’t be impressed. Instead, strive for originality and sincerity in expressing your thoughts and feelings.

By following these tips, you can create a standout Bowdoin supplemental essay that showcases your unique qualities and ability to fit in at this college!

Final Thoughts

Now you've got the tools to craft an amazing Bowdoin supplemental essay that truly reflects who you are and what you’re passionate about! Each line will mean something different to you, so take your time to decide which one to focus on and ensure your personality is highlighted throughout!

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Bowdoin Supplemental Essays 2023-24

Bowdoin supplemental essays.

Widely considered one of the best liberal arts schools , Bowdoin College has a rigorous admissions process. However, well-written Bowdoin supplemental essays can help your application stand out. The Bowdoin essays help the Bowdoin admissions officers gain a better understanding of you as an applicant. They also supplement your resume and experience. Additionally, the Bowdoin essay prompts allow for introspection and can help you detail exactly why you’d be a great fit for Bowdoin’s campus. 

The Bowdoin supplemental essays are a great opportunity to communicate your unique personality to the admissions team. So, it’s important to take them seriously. If you’re unsure how to write the Bowdoin essays, we’re here to help! This guide will help you write your best Bowdoin supplemental essays. We will break down each of the Bowdoin essay prompts and give you tips on how to write outstanding Bowdoin essays.

Bowdoin College Admissions

Quick facts: bowdoin college.

Bowdoin Acceptance Rate: 9%– U.S. News ranks Bowdoin College as #9 in both its National Liberal Arts Colleges and Best Value Schools lists. 

Bowdoin Essay Requirements: 

• Personal Essay (via Common App or Coalition App)
• 2 optional (~250 word) Bowdoin supplemental essays 

Applying to Bowdoin College: Students can apply to Bowdoin via the Common App , Coalition App , or the QuestBridge Match program. 

Bowdoin Application Deadlines: 

• Early Decision I: November 15
• Early Decision II: January 5 
• Regular Decision: January 5
• Transfer: March 1

Bowdoin Essay Tip: While the Bowdoin essays are technically optional, we recommend that you plan to complete both of them. With such a competitive acceptance rate, the Bowdoin application process can be difficult. The Bowdoin supplemental essays give admission officers more information to determine if you’re a good fit for their school. Therefore, it’s in your best interest to complete them! 

Does Bowdoin have supplemental essays?

There are two Bowdoin supplemental essays. We will detail the Bowdoin essay prompts later in this guide. The Bowdoin essays can be found via the Common App or Coalition App and can be submitted alongside your overall application. Both Bowdoin essays have a word limit of 250 words, so it’s important to pick your words carefully. 

While they’re both optional, you should plan to complete the Bowdoin supplemental essays. The Bowdoin College supplemental essays add dimension to your application and allow you to directly communicate with the admissions officers. The Bowdoin essays give you the opportunity to demonstrate how well you’ve researched Bowdoin and why you think you’re a good fit. Starting your Bowdoin supplemental essays early can give you adequate time to perfect them long before your chosen deadline . However, organization is key, so be sure to plan ahead! 

How many essays does Bowdoin require?

The only formal Bowdoin essay requirement is the personal statement found on the Common App or Coalition App. Both of the Bowdoin supplemental essays are optional. However, the admissions site states that depending on the answers provided in your application, an additional writing supplement may be triggered. In addition to your college essay , Bowdoin admissions officers will use the Bowdoin essays to evaluate how well you’ll fit on campus. While the Bowdoin supplemental essays aren’t technically required, we highly recommend completing them. 

The Bowdoin essay requirements are the same, regardless of whether you’re applying Regular Decision or Early Decision. Choosing your deadline is an important decision as an accepted Early Decision application is a binding agreement to attend Bowdoin. You can read our Early Decision vs Early Action guide for more information. 

The Bowdoin essays are unique to Bowdoin College and can help enhance your overall application. While they both may not be required for admission, the Bowdoin supplemental essays are the only chance you have to communicate directly with the Bowdoin admissions office. Given the competitive acceptance rate, it’s in your best interest to jump on this opportunity. 

We’ll detail each of the Bowdoin essay prompts in the next sections, and provide some tips on writing your best Bowdoin supplemental essays, so keep reading! 

Bowdoin Supplemental Essay #1

The first of the two Bowdoin essay prompts is an “optional” supplemental essay. However, as we’ve mentioned, we recommend all students answer this prompt. Here’s the first optional Bowdoin essay prompt:  

Bowdoin College Supplemental Essay Prompt #1

The offer represents bowdoin’s values. please reflect on the line you selected and how it has meaning to you. (250 word max.).

The Offer was written by Bowdoin’s seventh president. It poetically describes what can come from a Bowdoin education. As you’ll need to choose a part that most resonates with you, let’s first take a look at it: 

To be at home in all lands and all ages; to count nature a familiar acquaintance, and Art an intimate friend; to gain a standard for the appreciation of others’ work and the criticism of your own; to carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket, and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake; to make hosts of friends…who are to be leaders in all walks of life; to lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends – this is the offer of the college for the best four years of your life.

Out of the optional Bowdoin requirements, this essay allows you to draw a strong connection between yourself and Bowdoin’s values. By having students analyze this poem written by a former Bowdoin president, admissions officers can understand what about Bowdoin personally resonates with each applicant. However, with only 250 words, you’ll have to be efficient with your response. 

We’ll provide some tips on completing the Bowdoin essays later in this guide, but it’s important to understand why this essay is part of the Bowdoin supplement and overall Bowdoin requirements–even though it’s technically optional. The Bowdoin supplemental essays allow you to demonstrate your commitment and interest in Bowdoin, and this prompt is the perfect way to do just that. 

Out of the two Bowdoin essay prompts, this one is more unique. While some other schools may have you reflect on a poem or their schools’ values, this prompt wants you to pick a specific line to reflect upon. Try to connect the poem line to what you hope to accomplish at Bowdoin – this essay is a great opportunity to showcase the research you’ve done. Additionally, it’s a wonderful way to flex those liberal arts muscles, as creativity and critical thinking are a part of any liberal arts education. 

Overall, your Bowdoin supplemental essays should effectively showcase your personality and writing style. Most importantly, your response should be genuine. If you’re unsure which line to pick, we’ve compiled some tips in the next section! 

Choosing a line from Bowdoin’s Offer

Crafting your Bowdoin supplemental essays is an important step in your overall application. The first of two Bowdoin essays asks you to reflect on a single line from The Offer. You can find the text of this poem on the website or in the section above. There are many different lines you can pick from, and all of them would make a compelling essay. It can be helpful to read through the poem several times and make note of any lines that resonate with you and how you imagine life at Bowdoin to be. 

Additionally, it may be helpful to think of your intended major and connect it to a line from The Offer. For example, if you’re planning to major in English, consider picking “ to carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket”. You can detail how Bowdoin’s English program will help you with your goals, and reflect on the importance of literature in your life. 

Highlight why you think you’d belong

If you’re planning to major in the sciences, or are unsure about your major, consider picking “ to gain a standard for the appreciation of others’ work…and the criticism of your own” or “ and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake”. These sentences allow you to reflect on education as a whole, or focus on scientific research. These lines will work for most majors, and provide an opportunity to detail how you’ll use Bowdoin’s resources to your advantage.  

If you want to focus on the community you’ll find at Bowdoin, you can pick “ to make hosts of friends…who are to be leaders in all walks of life” or “to lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends”. Try to highlight 1-2 student groups or clubs in your essay, and reflect on the importance of community in your life. Be sure to check out Bowdoin’s website to help identify how you’ll get involved. 

Overall, the Bowdoin College supplemental essays are meant to help you detail why you belong at Bowdoin. Out of the two Bowdoin essays, it’s understandable why this prompt is included in the Bowdoin supplement. Consider it one of the Bowdoin requirements when completing your application. No matter which line you pick to reflect on, make sure you’re using this opportunity to demonstrate your personality. 

Use the poem as a way to describe your excitement about potentially attending Bowdoin, and make sure your Bowdoin supplemental essays complement each other. The Bowdoin essay prompts are designed to help you round out your application, so it’s important to put in adequate time and effort. 

Bowdoin Supplemental Essay #2

While the second Bowdoin supplemental essay is not required, it’s an important opportunity to add additional context to your application. Out of the two Bowdoin supplemental essays, this prompt is most similar to other cultural diversity essay prompts, so it’s likely that you’ve encountered a similar question. Here is the second Bowdoin essay prompt: 

Bowdoin College Supplemental Essay Prompt #2

Bowdoin believes that only through building a more diverse and inclusive campus community will the college best prepare graduates to be contributing and useful citizens of the world. every graduate of this institution should be confident in their preparation to be able to navigate through differences and in all sorts of situations. a bowdoin education does not guarantee these skills, but it does impart a set of tools necessary to bravely enter unfamiliar conditions with the confidence to deal effectively with ambiguity. , if you wish, you may share anything about the unique experiences and perspectives that you would bring with you to the bowdoin campus and community or an experience you have had that required you to navigate across or through difference. (250 words or less).

This essay prompt is a great opportunity to add dimension to your application and provide the admissions office with a better understanding of your history and experiences. For students wondering how to get into Bowdoin, writing stellar Bowdoin essays is a great step forward. While this essay isn’t a formal requirement, writing two Bowdoin supplemental essays will help your application stand out.

Out of the two Bowdoin College supplemental essays, this prompt is less about Bowdoin specifically. The prompt leaves you with a space to discuss your perspectives. This prompt can be a great addition to your overall application. Together, your Bowdoin essays will paint a holistic picture of your interests and passions. 

You should complete both Bowdoin supplemental essays. So it’s important to plan ahead and treat this essay as another requirement. In the next section, we’ll provide some specific tips on the best way to tackle this Bowdoin essay. 

How to write Bowdoin supplemental essay

It may be tempting to skip optional essays, but we highly encourage you to complete both Bowdoin supplemental essays. Your Bowdoin essays will work together to help the admissions office better understand your application. The Bowdoin College supplemental essays are designed to help you explain why you’ll be a good fit, so it’s in your best interest to complete the second prompt. 

Like many other cultural diversity essay prompts, this Bowdoin essay asks you to reflect on how you’ve navigated differences. It asks you to detail your unique perspective, and how this perspective will add to the Bowdoin campus. If you’ve ever advocated for a social cause, helped lead the charge to change a policy at your school, or had a difficult conversation with a friend or family member, you have a great foundation for this essay. 

Your essay should first help the reader understand your perspective, and then how you’ll bring this unique point of view to Bowdoin. It can be a good idea to research student groups and extracurriculars that you’re excited to join. Or you might reflect on how you’ll bring your perspective into the classroom. Your Bowdoin essays should complement each other, so try to build connections between the Bowdoin essay prompts if possible. 

If you don’t feel as though you have an anecdote or story that fits the prompt, you can think broadly about how you’ll engage on campus. Is there a cause or social issue you’re interested in, but haven’t been able to fully explore? Is there a research question or topic within your major that you are looking forward to debating? Try to focus on the ways you’ll develop your perspective at Bowdoin and consider the ways your Bowdoin supplemental essays will work with each other. 

Are the Bowdoin supplemental essays optional?

All students must complete the personal statement found on the Common App or Coalition App. Each Bowdoin essay is technically optional. However, we highly encourage students to complete both Bowdoin College supplemental essays to help their application stand out. The more information you’re able to give to the admissions officers, the better they’ll understand your motivations and passions. With such a competitive acceptance rate, Bowdoin applicants need to differentiate themselves from a pool of qualified candidates. 

The Bowdoin essay prompts are designed to help you elaborate on your resume and activities. The Bowdoin essays are the best opportunity you have to speak directly to admissions officers. Completing both Bowdoin supplemental essays will help you frame your application around the specific programs and resources Bowdoin offers. The cultural diversity essay prompt helps Bowdoin ensure they’re creating an engaged and passionate class. Therefore, you’ll want to complete both Bowdoin essays to show what you’ll bring to campus.

With 250-word limits, the Bowdoin supplemental essays are designed to have you quickly summarize your experiences and interest in Bowdoin. If you start well before the deadline, the Bowdoin College supplemental essays can be an effective way to boost your application. You will likely encounter other cultural diversity essay prompts as you apply to other schools, so completing both Bowdoin essays can help you reflect on your experiences and aid in your other supplemental essays. 

In short, while both Bowdoin College supplemental essays aren’t required, they can help you greatly in the application process. You should plan to complete both Bowdoin essays. And remember, the earlier you start, the better prepared you will be! 

Does Bowdoin care about essays?

While it’s hard to say exactly how the Bowdoin supplemental essays factor into the application process, we know that the Bowdoin essays help admissions officers gain a deeper understanding of each applicant. Likewise, the Bowdoin essay prompts help us understand what Bowdoin values in their students – a strong sense of self and commitment to the overall Bowdoin community. For students wondering how to get into Bowdoin, the Bowdoin supplemental essays provide great insight. 

As one of the more selective liberal arts colleges in the nation, Bowdoin is a prestigious school. The Bowdoin essay prompts reflect the school’s values and goals for their students. Ensuring that their students can reflect and communicate their ideas and passions is a main goal of the Bowdoin admissions office. The Bowdoin College supplemental essays help admissions decide which students align closely with their values, and which students will help change Bowdoin for the better. The Bowdoin essays are a crucial part of the application process as they help personalize each application and help admissions officers pick students who will embody Bowdoin’s goals. 

So, in short, yes, Bowdoin does care about their essays. Taking your time to complete both Bowdoin College supplemental essays will allow you to demonstrate your interest in Bowdoin, and communicate exactly why you’re a great applicant to consider. If you’re struggling with writing essays, you can check out our guide on How to Write Better Essays . It’s a great resource to help strengthen your college essays! 

Additional information about Bowdoin College

Conducting thorough research will help you write compelling Bowdoin College supplemental essays.  You can read high-level overviews of Bowdoin College on U.S. News , Forbes , and CollegeBoard . Understanding what makes Bowdoin unique will help when writing your Bowdoin supplemental essays. With a small undergraduate enrollment (just over 1,900 ), Bowdoin offers an intimate educational environment for students to explore their interests. It’s important to understand the campus environment before applying to Bowdoin. 

It may be useful to explore The Bowdoin Orient , Bowdoin’s student newspaper. Getting a sense of Bowdoin’s student life may also help inspire you when writing the Bowdoin essays. It can provide you with useful insight into student groups and organizations of interest.  Bowdoin’s website will be a great source for your research – the Admissions website details the overall application process . Additionally, for help with your application, you can read the Admissions FAQ .

CollegeAdvisor also has several resources on Bowdoin College to help you. You can read our page on Bowdoin College for information on the acceptance rate, Bowdoin majors, and the admissions process. You can also read our guide on How to Get Into Bowdoin , and watch our Bowdoin College/Williams College panel . 

Overall, we recommend reading as much as you can about Bowdoin College before applying. With the selective acceptance rate, the admissions office wants to ensure that each applicant is passionate about Bowdoin’s campus and programs. Read up on your intended major/program and have a strong understanding of why you’re interested in Bowdoin. Doing so will give you a great foundation for your Bowdoin essays! 

Bowdoin Supplemental Essays: Final Takeaways

Your Bowdoin supplemental essays can help you stand out in the application process, so you must dedicate time and energy to crafting your best responses. While the essays are optional, we recommend applicants complete both Bowdoin essays. The Bowdoin supplemental essays are the best chance you have to speak directly to the admissions office. Therefore, it’s crucial that you take advantage of every opportunity offered! 

Writing stellar supplemental essays doesn’t come easy, and you will likely need to write several drafts before they’re ready for submission. Start your Bowdoin essays early and ask for feedback from your teachers, mentors, and family members. They can help you perfect your syntax and grammar and ensure you’re answering all parts of the prompt. 

Overall, the Bowdoin essays provide great insight into your history, personality, and unique goals. They are a great tool for admissions officers to better understand your application, so putting your best work forward is key. Starting early, asking for help, and doing your research will help you write your best Bowdoin supplemental essays – good luck!

This essay guide was written by Jess Klein . 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.

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Writing the Bowdoin College Supplemental Essays

Written by Ian Brook Fisher on November 14th, 2019

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How to Respond to the 2023/2024 Bowdoin College Supplemental Essay Prompts

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The Bowdoin College supplemental essays may look a bit intimidating at first. After all, there are four of them and they’re not exactly traditional questions. Only two of the four prompts are mandatory, but optional essays are important if Bowdoin is your top choice.

So, let’s see what the school is all about, and dig into each of the Bowdoin College supplemental essays!

Bowdoin’s mission

Located in Brunswick, Maine, Bowdoin’s campus looks like it’s something out of a novel. Their goal is to create a diverse learning environment by actively working to admit students of all backgrounds through their need blind application process. 

“Offer to College”

Unique to Bowdoin College is what they call the “Offer of the College.” The Offer was written in 1906 by Bowdoin’s seventh president, William DeWitt Hyde. In this statement, Hyde outlines what Bowdoin promises to offer their students during their time in college. Bowdoin wants their students to know that they are committed to providing the resources, community, and faculty needed to achieve their goals.

Bowdoin’s philosophy to learning

Studying abroad and real life application of the learning you do are key components that Bowdoin encourages all of their students to be a part of. They know that while classroom education provides a vital foundation, so does pushing students to take the reins and get out in the world! In addition to education, they are also committed to the natural environment around them and the preservation of their historic campus. 

With this context, we can now jump into our supplemental essay prompts!

The Bowdoin supplemental essay prompt 

Generations of students have found connection and meaning in Bowdoin’s “The Offer of the College.” To be at home in all lands and all ages; to count Nature a familiar acquaintance, and Art an intimate friend; to gain a standard for the appreciation of others’ work and the criticism of your own; to carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket, and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake; to make hosts of friends…who are to be leaders in all walks of life; to lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends – this is the offer of the college for the best four years of your life. -William DeWitt Hyde, 7th President of Bowdoin College, 1906 Which line from The Offer resonates most with you? (Select an option.) To be at home in all lands and all ages To count Nature a familiar acquaintance… …and Art an intimate friend To gain a standard for the appreciation of others’ work and the criticism of your own To carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket, and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake To make hosts of friends… who are to be leaders in all walks of life To lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends

Bowdoin is going outside of the box with this essay prompt! First off, it’s actually not much of an essay. They want you to read the above quote lines and choose what line resonates with you most. Pretty simple, right?

Well, it seems simple. However, there are two things you should think about before just choosing a random line and pressing copy and paste. 

• First, “The Offer” is an integral piece of Bowdoin’s history. Their website has more information about where this quote came from and why it has become so important. So, take some time to do a little research before answering. 
• Second, it’s true that there is no right or wrong answer to this question, however, you should still be putting some deep thinking behind your answer. Putting in the work upfront always pays off. As soon as you move on from this question, you’ll see why.

How to choose a line from the quote?

So, how do you go about actually choosing a line from this quote? We recommend you start by reading this quote once through in its entirety. As you read, take note of any lines that jump out at you or stick in your head. After, go back and look at the lines you have noted and make sure you understand what the speaker is saying. Once you’ve done so, you will have your answer! 

Optional essay prompt that expands upon line from the offer you chose

The Offer represents Bowdoin’s values. Please reflect on the line you selected and how it has meaning to you. (Limit 250 words)

Here’s where that critical thinking and research you just did a few minutes ago pays off. This essay might say “optional,” but if you’re seriously considering Bowdoin, this prompt is far from optional. 

This question is a great way to show your values to Bowdoin! And guess what? You don’t have to talk about your major or career goals at all. All you have to do is talk about your answer to the previous prompt. Do you want to talk about what the arts mean to you or how important adding to the community around you will be? Go for it! 

Remember, your response is limited to 250 words. So, take your time and think carefully about what you want to share. There is no right or wrong answer here–simply expand upon the answer you chose for the previous prompt. Strive to be as genuine and purposeful as you can, and you’ll be just fine.

Additional resources  

Once you’ve finished the Bowdoin College supplemental essays, give yourself a pat on the back! But remember, your admissions process is far from over. Luckily, we have some tools to help you through it. We offer a number of free and informative articles to help you through the college admissions process. Here are some to get started:

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How to Approach the Bowdoin Supplemental Essay 2020-2021

Padya Paramita

August 10, 2020

Dedicated to growing a community of students who are passionate about creating positive change in the world, Bowdoin College offers an exceptional undergraduate experience to the 450 students who are admitted each year. You might resonate with this liberal arts school’s commitment to researching and protecting the environment. Or Bowdoin could appeal to you because you want a highly ranked college dining experience as a part of your everyday life, but so might thousands of other applicants. If you’re looking for a way to differentiate yourself from the competition, you need to find ways to stand out in your Bowdoin supplemental essay 2020-2021 . 

Whether your choice of major is American Politics or Francophone Studies, you have to answer a two-part supplemental essay when you select Bowdoin on the Common App or Coalition App. The second part is optional, but you should write it, for a few reasons. 1) Almost all applicants will respond with an essay for this prompt and 2) your application would benefit from highlighting how the school’s philosophy aligns with your background and aspirations. It’s time to read the college’s signature “ Offer of the College ” and talk about the ways in which the words resonate with you. To guide you through navigating the Offer, I’ve outlined the prompt, the dos and don’ts of your response, and more tips to help you write the Bowdoin supplemental essay 2020-2021 .

Download Every Supplemental Prompt Here!

Bowdoin supplemental essay 2020-2021 prompt.

In order to complete your Bowdoin application, you should answer the following prompt:

Generations of students have found connection and meaning in Bowdoin's “The Offer of the College,” written in 1906 by Bowdoin President William DeWitt Hyde.

To be at home in all lands and all ages;

to count Nature a familiar acquaintance,

and Art an intimate friend;

to gain a standard for the appreciation of others' work

and the criticism of your own;

to carry the keys of the world's library in your pocket,

and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake;

to make hosts of friends...who are to be leaders in all walks of life;

to lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends –

this is the offer of the college for the best four years of your life.

Which line from the Offer resonates most with you?

Optional Prompt

The Offer represents Bowdoin’s values. Please reflect on the line you selected and how it has meaning to you. (250 words)

The Bowdoin supplemental essay 2020-2021 prompt might throw you off at first glance. You’re being presented with a stanza of text, and you might not be used to that from other supplemental essays. But if you carefully read it, the Offer is quite easy to understand. In fact, while a lot of other colleges won’t tell you where to pick your answer for their “why college” supplemental essay, Bowdoin has provided 10 different options to guide you. You’ve probably studied Shakespeare for class - the language in Bowdoin’s motto is far easier to comprehend. If you read it out loud, you’ll see that it all makes sense - you’re being asked “why Bowdoin,” but with a lyrical twist. 

The first part of the question is required. Spend some time studying the Offer before choosing the line that appeals to you the most. In order to make your choice, think about what you’re looking forward to out of your college experience, and specifically from your time at Bowdoin College. Even though the second part of the question is optional, the Bowdoin supplemental essay 2020-2021 is meant to help the admissions officers get to know you. There’s no better way to distinguish yourself from your peers - some of whom are bound to have picked the same Offer line - than to take advantage of this component and elaborate on why you’ve chosen your selected line. Dig in deeper to the lines as you develop your argument. Note the ways in which you could approach some of the lines: 

• “ to count Nature a familiar acquaintance / and Art an intimate friend ” – If this line resonates the most with you, elaborate on how you’re excited to create art, inspired by the natural setting of Brunswick, Maine. You could mention any activity you’re currently a part of that involves art and nature. “Nature” and “art” are both very broad categories, so be as specific as possible in your response.
• “to gain a standard for the appreciation of others' work / and the criticism of your own” – Bowdoin appreciates students who are able to offer (no pun intended) and accept meaningful feedback. By working with talented peers from all over the world, a Bowdoin education can help you understand the standard for good work, as well as develop your own self-awareness. If this line appeals to you, focus your response on what you consider a high standard in your field. If you’ve had any instances where you learned to take or give constructive feedback, don’t be afraid to include relevant anecdotes.
• “ to make hosts of friends...who are to be leaders in all walks of life ” - Are you drawn to the idea of collaborating with friends who will become future world leaders and share common values? If you’ve chosen “to make hosts of friends...who are to be leaders in all walks of life;” for example, you must bring forward your collaborative side. Outline your interests and goals - specifically tailored to your choice of major at Bowdoin or any extracurriculars you have your eyes on - and highlight how working with talented classmates can help get you there.  Expand on your goals and the ways in which your aspirations require collaboration. How can you hone your teamwork efforts while at Bowdoin? Use concrete examples where you can.

No matter which line is your favorite, your supplemental response should use anecdotes and the “show, not tell” technique to emphasize the importance of nature, art, resources, enthusiasm, friendship, and cooperation in your experiences thus far. The Bowdoin admissions officers must come out of reading your essay with a clear idea of exactly what you’re passionate about, what most appeals to you about the school, and which areas you’re most likely to contribute to on campus. So, don’t hold back on expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunities that await you at this prestigious liberal arts college. 

Additional Tips for Writing the Bowdoin Supplemental Essay 2020-2021

• Make sure to still research the school - While your Bowdoin supplemental essay 2020-2021 should expand on whichever line you appreciate the most in the Offer, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t conduct further research on the school. When it comes to answering colleges’ prompts, you have to be as specific as you can in your answer. The Offer doesn’t directly name any of the resources that Bowdoin has for you. Go ahead and name specific aspects that stand out to you the most. Admissions officers will notice if you’ve done your research, and they’ll feel more confident going to bat for you in committee if they know that you’re applying with concrete reasons.
• Don’t repeat your personal statement - One of the key purposes of the Bowdoin supplemental essay 2020-2021 is to convey new information about you to help the school get to know you better. That’s not going to happen if you repeat parts of your Common App personal statement , activities list , or other elements of your application. Admissions officers don’t have a lot of time on their hands, so they won’t appreciate reading the same information over and over. If your personal statement already focuses on collaboration, you need to find a different line from the Offer that also calls out to you so that you can bring to light a new side of yourself. 

The Bowdoin supplemental essay 2020-2021 is used to determine your commitment towards this top liberal arts college by evaluating the way you engage with the Offer that has inspired generations of students who’ve attended the school. Make sure you take advantage of this component and focus mainly on what makes you a good fit for this institution. The more specific you are, the stronger your essay will be. Best of luck!

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September 5, 2023

2023-2024 Bowdoin College Supplemental Essays

Previously Published on July 23, 2013:

Bowdoin College has released its essays for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle. In addition to The Common Application ’s Personal Statement, applicants to Bowdoin’s Class of 2028 will be required to write one supplemental essay of up to 250 words. Applicants are also offered the chance — although it’s deemed “ optional ” — to write an additional supplemental essay of up to 250 words and submit a video. Of course, nothing deemed optional in elite college admissions should ever be interpreted as optional. So, what are this year’s essay prompts?

2023-2024 Bowdoin Essay Topics and Video

Required essay.

The first essay prompt, which is required of all Bowdoin applicants to the Class of 2028, reads as follows:

Generations of students have found connection and meaning in Bowdoin’s “The Offer of the College,” written in 1906 by Bowdoin President William DeWitt Hyde.

To be at home in all lands and all ages;

to count nature a familiar acquaintance,

and Art an intimate friend;

to gain a standard for the appreciation of others’ work

and the criticism of your own;

to carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket,

and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake;

to make hosts of friends…who are to be leaders in all walks of life;

to lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends –

this is the offer of the college for the best four years of your life.

Which line from The Offer resonates most with you?*

• To be at home in all lands and all ages
• To count nature a familiar acquaintance……and Art an intimate friend
• To gain a standard for the appreciation of others’ work and the criticism of your own
• To carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket, and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake
• To make hosts of friends… who are to be leaders in all walks of life
• To lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends

The Offer of the College , a staple of the Bowdoin supplement, makes for a beautiful essay prompt — one of the most memorable of any school’s for applicants to the Class of 2028.

It offers students the opportunity to write about their appreciation of nature. After all, Bowdoin is situated in picturesque Maine. Or students can write about how they will admire the work and thinking of their fellow students and be open to receiving feedback on their own work. Or students can write about their love of all they can learn from books. Or what they’ll value in their relationships with their fellow students. The possibilities are endless.

Optional Essay

The second essay prompt, which is optional for applicants to respond to in up to 250 words, reads as follows:

Bowdoin believes that only through building a more diverse and inclusive campus community will the College best prepare graduates to be contributing and useful citizens of the world. Every graduate of this institution should be confident in their preparation to be able to navigate through differences and in all sorts of situations. A Bowdoin education does not guarantee these skills, but it does impart a set of tools necessary to bravely enter unfamiliar conditions with the confidence to deal effectively with ambiguity.

If you wish, you may share anything about the unique experiences and perspectives that you would bring with you to the Bowdoin campus and community or an experience you have had that required you to navigate across or through difference.

This second essay prompt is a straight-up-the-middle community essay. While the United States Supreme Court outlawed the practice of Affirmative Action , Chief Justice John Roberts penned a loophole in the majority opinion .

Chief Justice Roberts wrote, “Nothing in this opinion should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicant’s discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise.”

The loophole led many schools, including Bowdoin, to ask applicants to write about their backgrounds, experiences, or where they come from to demonstrate how they will contribute to Bowdoin’s diversity.

Optional Video

Bowdoin College extends you the opportunity to add a video response to your application materials. Instructions for completing the optional video response will be available in your application acknowledgment email and in your Bowdoin Application Portal.  Learn more about it.

The video essay does not have to be extremely well-edited. In fact, we at Ivy Coach strongly discourage applicants from making any fancy schmancy adjustments to their videos as it will only reek of privilege, rendering them less likable.

While applicants should prepare their answer in advance, they should not sound rehearsed. So, it should sound like the student is speaking off the cuff — but their response, which should showcase their intellectual curiosity and not repeat anything they’ve written about previously, should be planned out in advance.

Ivy Coach’s Assistance with Bowdoin Essays and Video

If you’re interested in optimizing your case for admission to Bowdoin by submitting compelling essays and a video that sways admissions officers to root for you, fill out Ivy Coach ’s free consultation form , and we’ll be in touch to outline our college admissions counseling services for seniors.

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Bowdoin College 2019-20 Supplemental Essay Guide

Regular Decision: 

Bowdoin College 2019-20 Application Essay Question Explanations

Don’t let the looks of this short, quirky supplement fool you: it will push you as a writer. But why should we expect any less from one of the best liberal arts colleges (according to US News and World Report )? To tackle this tricky supplement, give yourself plenty of time to think, tinker, and wordsmith.

The Requirements: One essay of 250 words, one short answer of 140 characters, and one additional info essay.

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Oddball , Short Answer , Additional info

How did you first learn about Bowdoin? (Limit 140 characters.)

Who knew 140 characters would still be relevant in a world of #longtweets? In case you don’t remember the prehistoric days of Twitter’s more limited character count, we’ll give you a tip: 140 characters is still enough space to write a full (if succinct) sentence. In other words, this short answer question is still an opportunity for you to show admissions a glimmer of personality or new information. Your answer should go beyond simply the name of the person or publication that first informed you of Bowdoin’s existence. In fact, you might even be able to sneak in one of the key reasons you’re applying. If your dad is an alum, maybe you can explain how you grew up hearing stories about this paradise in Maine. Or maybe you’re a hockey player with a penchant for poetry and your English teacher encouraged you to pursue both at Bowdoin. Believe it or not, each of those sentences came in under the character count!

Generations of students have found connection and meaning in Bowdoin’s “The Offer of the College.”

To be at home in all lands and all ages;, to count nature a familiar acquaintance,, and art an intimate friend;, to gain a standard for the appreciation of others’ work, and the criticism of your own;, to carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket,, and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake;, to make hosts of friends…who are to be leaders in all walks of life;, to lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends –, this is the offer of the college for the best four years of your life., -william dewitt hyde, 7th president of bowdoin college, 1906, which line from the offer resonates most with you (select an option.).

Bet you weren’t expecting to take an English exam on your application! This is really a two question prompt, so skip down to the next question for our full walkthrough.

Optional: The Offer represents Bowdoin’s values. Please reflect on the line you selected and how it has meaning to you. (Limit 250 words)

Gotcha! This optional prompt (as is the case with most optional prompts) is lowkey not optional. It’s a key opportunity for you to tell admissions more about who you are, so take it! Plus, if you answer the first question, you ought to be able to defend your answer in the second. So here’s another crucial tip: although Bowdoin has given you a multiple choice question, there’s actually no right answer. Or rather, the only right answer is the one you choose genuinely, and without overthinking it. We know it might sound out there, but go with your gut. What line leaps out at you right away? Which lines connect with your life? Us, personally? We love the idea of “the keys of the world’s library,” a line you could take quite literally or more figuratively. A student writing about this line might have a longstanding love of actual libraries. Maybe you’ve always retreated to the library as a sanctuary, and to you, this line means that a college education will turn the whole world into your sanctuary and make you feel brave. On the other hand, maybe you see it as an invitation to explore: to study in other countries and learn from people in all fields. Either way, you can make your case with evidence from the text and your own life. The point is, you don’t have to give a full-scale close reading; tell a story about yourself instead.

Optional: If there is additional information you feel will support your application, you are welcome to include it here.

Okay, remember what we said before about optional essays? This is the one case where you should proceed with caution. Additional Info essays like this one are mainly intended for students who have some blemish on their record that requires further explanation: a slump in your grades, an uncharacteristically low score on an exam, a long absence from school. It’s a chance to tell your side of the story and ensure that these statistics don’t define you in the eyes of admissions. Additional Info essays can deal with sensitive issues like grief, illness, and mental health, so it’s important that you feel comfortable telling your story. As is the case with almost any essay about a major obstacle or challenge, we encourage you to focus on your personal growth and successes. No need to dwell on or relive what may have been an incredibly difficult time in your life. What have you learned and how have those lessons made you who you are today? For more information on writing about sensitive topics, check out our video tutorials on grief and other so-called taboos .

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How to Write the Bowdoin College Essay 2019-2020

Tucked away in the beautiful coastal suburb of Brunswick, Maine, Bowdoin College is a private liberal arts college with a superb academic and cultural history. Since its founding in 1802, the college has focused on its mission of preparing students to serve the common good.

As a top-ranked liberal arts college with only 1,800 undergraduates, Bowdoin is a highly selective school, admitting only 8.9% of applicants in the 2018-2019 cycle. Students at Bowdoin can rely on small class sizes, close relationships with faculty, and frequent contact with Maine’s natural beauty.

If you want to snag a spot in at Bowdoin, here’s how to write a standout supplemental essay. Want to know your chances atBowdoin? Calculate your chances for free right now.

How to Write the Bowdoin College Supplemental Essays

Generations of students have found connection and meaning in bowdoin’s “the offer of the college,” written in 1906 by bowdoin president william dewitt hyde., “to be at home in all lands and all ages;, to count nature a familiar acquaintance,, and art an intimate friend;, to gain a standard for the appreciation of others’ work, and the criticism of your own;, to carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket,, and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake;, to make hosts of friends…who are to be leaders in all walks of life;, to lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends”, – william dewitt hyde, 7th president of bowdoin college, 1906, required: which line from “the offer” resonates most with you (multiple-choice selection), optional: “the offer” represents bowdoin’s values. please reflect on the line you selected and how it has meaning to you (250 words).

Note: While the explanation prompt is technically optional, CollegeVine highly recommends that you answer this prompt.

Some DOs and DON’Ts

Let’s start with some overall tips for this essay:

DON’T discuss multiple lines.

250 words does not give you a lot of room to write. Basically, you will have the chance to write one brief anecdote and one or two reflections you have had in the wake of that experience.

As it is unlikely that you’ll have space to write about more than one line from “The Offer,” it’s best to play this one safe and choose only one line to discuss.

DO talk about your past experiences.

By now, you probably have a handful of anecdotes you like to share in college essays. Even though this prompt does not ask you to address your past accomplishments or experiences, it is totally fair game to include those in your response. In fact, reflecting on key moments from your past is a great way to help admissions officers get to know you better.

DO say how attending Bowdoin will help you achieve your goal.

“The Offer of College” piece as a whole suggests that all these great things are the result of a Bowdoin education. So, be sure to connect your favorite line with an experience or change you hope to have during your time at Bowdoin. You should research specific resources at Bowdoin, such as the Outing Club, which would relate to the line “to count Nature a familiar acquaintance.” 

With these basic DOs and DON’Ts in mind, here is an example of a strong response to the Bowdoin supplemental essay required prompt.

Response for “To carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket, and feel its resources behind you in whatever you undertake”

My car key slipped neatly into my palm the summer I turned sixteen, and I will never forget the dizzying pleasure that came from feeling its weight. Looping it onto my all-but-empty key chain, the key represented freedom—to go any distance anytime, as long as I remembered to fill the tank. Driving also represented new levels of responsibility. If used irresponsibly, it had the power to take someone’s life.

Books are not dissimilar to car keys. Reading Hyde’s “The Offer of College” reminded me of that sterling moment when I first felt how much of the world could be mine. In the halls of Bowdoin College Library, amidst the dusty volumes, hides the liberating power of knowledge. It took a man like Chamberlain to win the Battle of Gettysburg; at Bowdoin, I can learn from his autobiography. It took a man like Archimedes to defend the walls of Syracuse; at Bowdoin, I can read his work in an original printed copy. It takes a Bowdoin graduate to advance modern medicine; at Bowdoin, tucked away in a library carrel, I will learn how.

And then, too soon, I will leave for medical school with the words I carry in my mind. Bowdoin College Library will never leave my key chain. Rather, I will add to it—my white coat, a hospital ID card, my voter registration. I will spend my life collecting keys, striving to use them for the good of those I serve.

Analysis of sample response:

This response works well as it creates imagery around the word “keys,” linking it to her key chain, a personal experience, and her future goals. This writer also discusses some of the rare book resources she might use in Bowdoin’s library, showing that she has a real passion for knowledge and that she’s done her research on the school.

With this example in mind, here are some ideas for each line of “The Offer”:

Option A: To be at home in all lands and all ages

This option is a great choice for students who have traveled abroad, studied history, or want to prioritize exploration in the future.

Make sure your essay engages with the contradiction that the prompt implies. It’s hard to feel at home in an environment where you did not grow up! 

Consider what has helped you to feel at home in these situations. How would attending Bowdoin expand your comfort zone to include more lands and ages? Maybe you want to study abroad, or join one of the many groups part of Bowdoin’s Multicultural Coalition.

Option B: To count Nature a familiar acquaintance

Whether you engage with nature as a preservationist, farmer, artist, or outdoorsman, this is a great prompt for someone who already spends time connecting with nature.

On the East Coast, Maine is known for its rugged terrain and rural beauty. Bowdoin takes pride in the nature that surrounds it. That means this prompt gives you the opportunity to connect with the college over your shared love of the outdoors.

If you have not spent a lot of time engaging with nature already, consider choosing another option. If you have been in the wild a lot, spend your essay writing about your experiences in nature and why they’re special to you.

Option C:…and Art an intimate friend

Don’t worry—you do not have to be an accomplished artist to choose this line. If you are an artist, it’s a great pick, but you can also be a film connoisseur, museum goer, or someone with a strong connection to a particular work of art.

For this essay, consider focusing on why it matters to know art intimately, not just to like it. Describe a time when you have connected deeply with a work of art—any medium is fair game, including music. What made your experience of that art special?

Another good point to address is how Bowdoin can prepare you to have greater intimacy with art over time, whether through courses or clubs.

If you are not going into an arts career, why have you chosen to prioritize art anyway? What about art prepares you for the rest of your life?

There’s no need to address all these points, but these ideas give you a place to start.

Option D: To gain a standard for the appreciation of others’ work and the criticism of your own

The working world is full of criticism, both constructive and harmful. Choosing this line reflects a certain wisdom. Tasks need to be done well, and feedback can have a huge impact on the final product, for better or worse.

Not many students can write to this prompt well, so if you think you can, our advice is an enthusiastic, “Go for it!”

If gaining standards for the work of others matters to you, spell out why you think it’s important to hold others accountable for high quality results.

When have you been criticized? How did that go? What did you learn? If criticism has shaped your life story so far, share that story and maybe some of your opinions on how to give good feedback. 

Option E: To carry the keys of the world’s library in your pocket, and feel its resources behind you in whatever you undertake

Another way to phrase this line is as follows: How have academic resources empowered you to accomplish your dreams? What would you do if you had Bowdoin’s access to information?

Use this essay to unpack why access to so much information gets you excited about the future.

You may also choose to put a different spin on it. Some students may use this prompt to talk about the internet and why college is still necessary even now that the world wide web is on so many smartphones. Other students might use this essay as a chance to discuss their professional plans and how the college’s resources will prepare them for a lifelong fulfilling career.

Option F: To make hosts of friends…who are to be leaders in all walks of life

There are two main ideas in this line. The first is the concept of friendship. The second is the idea that knowing other leaders is valuable even when their area of influence differs from your own. Feel free to focus on either of these ideas individually or to write an essay about both.

For friendship, let the admissions officers know what friendship means to you. Are you someone who has lots of friends or only a few? How do you choose your friends? Who do you hope to encounter at college?

For leadership, talk about what makes a good leader. What can leaders learn from each other? What are the advantages of talking to leaders from other fields? How will going to Bowdoin connect you with the leaders of tomorrow?

These are some big, theoretical questions, so it’s best to ground your essay in one or two specific experiences you have had. Consider talking about friends and leaders you have known. How did those relationships change your own character?

Warning: Even in an essay about other people, you still want to cast yourself as the main character. Be sure to highlight your own experiences with friendship and leadership.

Option G: To lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends

The phrase, “generous enthusiasms,” is practically overflowing with energy. If you’re the kind of person whose energy and commitment doesn’t quit, this line is likely a great fit for you.

Recall a time when you directed your energy towards serving others. It helps if the initiative required teamwork to be successful. In what ways was that a challenging or rewarding experience? Why do you want to develop an enthusiastic commitment to service moving forward?

When it comes to choosing a line from “The Offer,” there is no right or wrong answer. Instead, spend a few moments asking yourself which line hits closest to home, then use this essay breakdown to flesh out your response.

For more ideas, check out last year’s post . 

Want help with your college essays to improve your admissions chances? Sign up for your free CollegeVine account and get access to our essay guides and courses. You can also get your essay peer-reviewed and improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

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Bowdoin College’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Additional info essay.

How did you first learn about Bowdoin?

Diversity Short Response

Bowdoin believes that only through building a more diverse and inclusive campus community will the College best prepare graduates to be contributing and useful citizens of the world. Every graduate of this institution should be confident in their preparation to be able to navigate through differences and in all sorts of situations. A Bowdoin education does not guarantee these skills, but it does impart a set of tools necessary to bravely enter unfamiliar conditions with the confidence to deal effectively with ambiguity.

If you wish, you may share anything about the unique experiences and perspectives that you would bring with you to the Bowdoin campus and community or an experience you have had that required you to navigate across or through difference.

Select-A-Prompt Short Response

Generations of students have found connection and meaning in Bowdoin‘s “The Offer of the College,” written in 1906 by Bowdoin President William DeWitt Hyde.

To be at home in all lands and all ages; to count Nature a familiar acquaintance, and Art an intimate friend; to gain a standard for the appreciation of others‘ work and the criticism of your own; to carry the keys of the world‘s library in your pocket, and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake; to make hosts of friends...who are to be leaders in all walks of life; to lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends – this is the offer of the college for the best four years of your life.

Which line from The Offer resonates most with you? The Offer represents Bowdoin’s values. Please reflect on the line you selected and how it has meaning to you.

1. To be at home in all lands and all ages

2. To count Nature a familiar acquaintance...

3. ...and Art an intimate friend

4. To gain a standard for the appreciation of others‘ work and the criticism of your own

5. To carry the keys of the world‘s library in your pocket, and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake

6. To make hosts of friends... who are to be leaders in all walks of life

7. To lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends

Common App Personal Essay

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

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