How to Write the Michigan Technological University Essay 2025-2026
Michigan Technological University (Michigan Tech) is a public research university known for its strong programs in engineering, computing, environmental science, and technology innovation. For the 2025-2026 application cycle, Michigan Tech has one required supplemental essay about why students have chosen to apply.
Since Michigan Tech receives thousands of applicants each year with similar grades, you want to use this essay to help yourself stand out from your peers. Keep reading to find out how!
Michigan Technological University Supplemental Essay Prompt
Who/what influenced you to apply to Michigan Technological University? (150 words)
This is a prime example of the classic “Why This College?” essay prompt, and it asks you why you’re interested in Michigan Tech. To answer this question effectively, you’ll need to demonstrate knowledge of the school’s academic programs and campus culture.
Michigan Tech wants to know if you’re familiar with their school—whether someone introduced you to it or you learned about it on your own—and if you can envision yourself thriving there. They’re not looking for generic answers about prestige, size, or location—you need to show how Michigan Tech’s unique opportunities align with you.
Before you begin writing, you’ll need to consider what you intend to write about. To help guide your thinking, consider these brainstorming questions:
- What first drew me to Michigan Tech? Was it a class, program, professor, a family member’s testimonials,etc?
- What academic interests do I want to pursue, and how would Michigan tech make that possible?
- How do I see myself engaging in campus life beyond academics (clubs, community engagement, multicultural events, etc.)?
- What about Michigan Tech’s values resonates with me (commitment to diversity, civic engagement, global awareness)?
Once you’ve figured out the kinds of things you want to write about, think about what will make for a good response. Most importantly, be specific: reference programs, classes, or opportunities unique to Michigan Tech.
Once you do that, connect them to your story. Show how your background, experiences, or future goals align with these resources. Make sure you also balance academics with community. Admissions officers want to see you engaged both inside and outside the classroom.
Show fit and contribution—not only why Michigan Tech fits you, but also how you’ll enrich their community. The admissions officers should come away from your essay understanding not only why their school is a good fit for you, but also why you’re a good fit for their unique campus community.
Here are some hypothetical student examples to show you how much variety there can be in responses:
- Sophia was inspired by building a solar-powered go-kart in high school and is drawn to Michigan Tech’s Alternative Energy Enterprise and Supermileage Systems teams. She might write about how these organizations will provide her with hands-on experience designing sustainable technologies.
- Matt volunteered at a physical therapy clinic in high school which led to his interest in studying Biomedical Engineering. Specifically, he’s looking forward to getting involved with the Neuromuscular and Rehabilitation Robotics Laboratory (NeuRRo Lab). He wants to develop technologies that help patients recover and is confident his participation in this lab will help him reach his goals.
- Priya credits her first Robotics coach, a Michigan Tech alum, for showing her how problem-solving and teamwork define real engineering. She could write about being influenced by her coach’s enthusiasm for the Robotics Systems Enterprise and wanting to join a community where collaboration drives innovation.
Let’s look at a strong example that answers this prompt:
“My older brother’s work in the Coast Guard first introduced me to atmospheric science. His stories about navigating storms with limited data made me realize how vital accurate forecasting can be.
That realization guided me to Michigan Tech, where I hope to dive into the Atmospheric Sciences program to strengthen both my coding and research skills while exploring how weather data translates into real-world decisions. I’m especially drawn to the Great Lakes Research Center, where I can analyze lake-effect snow patterns and collaborate with faculty and peers on predictive modeling projects. Through that work, I want to learn how to turn complex climate data into clear, actionable information that communities can use to stay safe.
What influenced me most wasn’t just my brother’s courage, but his belief in science as preparation—and Michigan Tech feels like the place where I can turn that belief into impact.”
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