How to answer the University of Michigan supplemental essay
If you’re applying to the University of Michigan, you might already know they recently released two big changes to their application*, and one of them is that they changed their essay prompt. I’m Sarah. I’m a college counselor with Great College Advice. I want to help you get into your dream school. Let’s get into it.
The new prompt:
At the University of Michigan, we are focused on developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future. In your essay, share with us how you are prepared to contribute to these goals. This could include the people, places, experiences, or aspirations that have shaped your journey and future plans.(required for all applicants; 100 word minimum; 300 word maximum).
On the surface, this seems pretty basic, but there is one big thing here, one secret to this essay. If you don’t understand this one thing, you’ve missed the whole point. Universities exist in this world as non-profit, mission-driven institutions. That means they have a mission. They exist for a specific purpose, and you can google it. Luckily, I already googled it. Let’s take a look.
The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving, and applying art, knowledge, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.
Sound familiar? It should. Basically, what they did is they took their mission statement, and they turned it into an essay question. So what they’re really asking is how do your mission and values as an individual align with their mission as an institution. You have to show that you understand what the University of Michigan is all about, not just on a nuts and bolts level, but on a community level, a character level, and that you share their values and mission.
Good luck!
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If you need help with your University of Michigan supplemental essays and application, reach out to the team at Great College Advice. We have helped many students get accepted to the schools of their dreams, including the University of Michigan. Contact us today for your complimentary consultation.
* (In addition to the essay prompt change, the University of Michigan also decided to introduce an Early Decision application round beginning in 2025-2026 with an application due date of November 1, similar to the Early Action deadline.)
