CollegeVine College Essay Team December 8, 2024 22 Essay Breakdowns,Essay Guides 2024-25

How to Write the Stony Brook University Essays 2024-2025

Stony Brook University is a public college that is part of the SUNY system, known for its strong programs in STEM. While there is no required supplemental essay for general applicants, Stony Brook does require applicants to their Honors College and more specialized programs to submit essays. Keep reading to learn what these essays are and how you can craft a strong response to them.

Stony Brook University Supplemental Essays

Understanding the Prompt

This essay is a classic “Why This Program?” prompt. It requires you to articulate why you are a good fit for your chosen honors program—whether it’s Honors College, University Scholars, or Women in Science and Engineering (WISE). The key is to provide specific reasons why this program aligns with your academic and personal goals, and how your experiences make you a strong candidate.

Brainstorming Questions

• What specific aspects of the program appeal to you? (e.g., curriculum, research opportunities, mentorship, community)

• How will your past academic and extracurricular experiences have prepared you for this program?

• What are your long-term goals, and how will this program help you achieve them?

• Have you engaged with any projects, research, or clubs that are directly relevant to the program’s focus?

• What unique qualities or perspectives do you bring to this program that would make you a valuable member?

What Makes a Good Response

A strong response to this prompt should:

• Show deep understanding of the program: Clearly articulate what makes the Honors College, University Scholars, or WISE unique and why it appeals to you specifically.

• Connect your experiences to the program: Highlight how your academic achievements, extracurriculars, and personal experiences have prepared you to contribute to and benefit from the program.

• Demonstrate long-term thinking: Explain how the program aligns with your future academic or career goals, showing that you’ve thought critically about your path.

• Be specific and personal: Avoid vague statements about the program’s prestige. Instead, provide detailed examples of how specific features of the program will help you grow.

Hypothetical Student Examples

1. Maya is a student passionate about biology and gender studies, who has been heavily involved in her high school’s STEM club and has interned at a local biotech company. She might discuss her interest in WISE, connecting her passion for science and her desire to empower women in STEM. She could highlight her experiences mentoring younger girls in science as a reason she’s excited to join a supportive community of women in science.

2. Liam is a student passionate about biomedical engineering who has been captivated by the possibilities of tissue engineering. He could discuss how his strong interest in research aligns with his goals of contributing to advancements in regenerative medicine. Liam might describe his experience working on a school project where he designed a model of a bioprinter to create synthetic tissues and how this hands-on experience deepened his understanding of the field. Additionally, he could highlight his eagerness to collaborate with faculty members in the Honors College whose research in tissue engineering he admires, aiming to gain further insights and contribute to meaningful projects. Through these experiences and his dedication to learning, Liam aspires to make significant contributions to the field of biomedical engineering.

3. Jasmine is a student with a diverse range of academic interests, from environmental science to philosophy, who has participated in various leadership roles throughout high school. She could discuss how she thrives in environments that allow for interdisciplinary exploration and how her curiosity has driven her to pursue multiple fields of study. Jasmine might elaborate on a project where she combined her passion for environmental science and philosophy by leading a school initiative to reduce waste, which included discussions on the ethical implications of environmental stewardship. She could explain how she is eager to continue pursuing both of these interests as part of the University Scholars program, seeking out opportunities to engage in projects that cross disciplinary boundaries and contribute to sustainability efforts on campus. Jasmine’s leadership experiences have shaped her desire to take on active roles in college, where she plans to collaborate with like-minded peers and faculty to address complex global challenges.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Being too general: Avoid making generic statements about wanting to be challenged or how the program is prestigious. Specificity is key.

• Lack of personal connection: Failing to connect your experiences and goals to the program makes your essay less compelling.

• Ignoring the unique aspects of the program: Make sure you highlight what is distinct about the program and why it suits you. Mentioning general college resources won’t suffice.

• Overemphasizing prestige: Instead of focusing on how impressive the program is, emphasize how it aligns with your academic and personal aspirations.

Good and Bad Examples

Good Example:

“As a student who has always sought to understand the world through both a scientific and social lens, the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) program stands out to me as the perfect environment to grow and thrive. My internship at Genentech last summer was a turning point—it not only solidified my love for biology but also opened my eyes to the gender disparities in STEM fields. This realization fueled my commitment to mentoring younger girls in my school’s STEM club, where I initiated workshops that encouraged hands-on learning in coding and robotics. Watching these young girls grow more confident in their abilities and excited about science reminded me of my own journey in STEM and inspired me to be a role model and advocate for women in these fields.

The WISE program’s unique combination of rigorous science education and a supportive community of like-minded women excites me, as it will allow me to pursue my passion for biology while also contributing to a movement that empowers future generations of female scientists. I’m particularly drawn to the mentorship opportunities within WISE, where I hope to learn from both faculty and fellow students who have navigated similar challenges. Furthermore, I am eager to engage in the interdisciplinary research projects that WISE promotes, particularly those that explore the intersection of biology and technology—fields where women’s perspectives are crucial. I believe that WISE will not only provide me with the academic foundation and research experience I need, but also the leadership skills and network to make a meaningful impact in the STEM community.”

Why this works: This example is specific and personal, connecting the student’s experiences to their aspirations in STEM. It also effectively demonstrates how the WISE program aligns with their goals and passions, while showcasing their commitment to contributing to the STEM community. The essay is enriched with details about how the student has already taken action to support women in STEM and how they intend to continue this work in college.

Bad Example:

“I have always been good at math and science, which is why I want to study engineering. I find these subjects interesting and believe they will lead to a successful career. I am excited about the opportunity to learn more in college and hope to eventually work in a field that involves technology or engineering. I know that the Honors College will provide me with the knowledge I need to be successful.”

Why this doesn’t work: The essay makes broad statements like “good at math and science” and “interested in technology or engineering” without offering any specific examples of what the student is passionate about or what they’ve done to explore these fields. The essay fails to connect the student’s academic interests with any personal experiences, such as projects, internships, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate a genuine passion for science or engineering.

Understanding the Prompt

This essay prompt asks you to reflect on why you are drawn to the field of medicine or dental medicine. It’s not just about stating your interest in the field but delving into the specific aspects that captivate you and how they have shaped your life and aspirations. The goal is to convey your passion and the personal experiences that have led you to this path.

Brainstorming Questions

• What specific aspects of medicine or dental medicine fascinate you? (e.g., patient care, medical technology, public health)

• How have you engaged with these aspects in your academic or extracurricular life?

• What personal experiences have strengthened your resolve to pursue this field?

• How do these aspects align with your long-term goals?

• How do your interests in medicine/dental medicine reflect your values or identity?

What Makes a Good Response

A compelling response should:

• Be personal and introspective: Dive deep into the experiences that have influenced your interest in medicine/dental medicine.

• Focus on specific aspects: Highlight the particular elements of medicine or dental medicine that intrigue you, whether it’s the problem-solving nature of the work, the impact on patient lives, or the cutting-edge research involved.

• Demonstrate commitment: Show how you’ve actively pursued these interests through relevant experiences, such as volunteering, internships, or coursework.

• Connect to your future: Discuss how these aspects will shape your future career in medicine or dental medicine, reflecting a clear understanding of the field.

Hypothetical Student Examples

1. Carlos is fascinated by the intersection of technology and patient care. He could discuss how his experience shadowing a surgeon using robotic-assisted technology fueled his desire to contribute to advancements in medical technology, ultimately improving patient outcomes. He could also touch on how this experience has influenced his involvement in a robotics club, where he’s working on a project to create a prototype for a medical device.

2. Amara has a personal connection to dentistry through her family’s struggles with dental health. She might write about how witnessing her mother’s dental issues sparked her interest in preventive care and her subsequent volunteer work at a free dental clinic. Amara could then connect this to her long-term goal of becoming a dentist who provides affordable care to underserved communities.

3. Sophia has been drawn to pediatric medicine ever since she volunteered at a children’s hospital. She could discuss how interacting with young patients, particularly those with chronic illnesses, inspired her to pursue a career where she can make a difference in children’s lives. She might also mention how this experience has led her to focus on pediatric research during her undergraduate studies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Being too broad: Avoid general statements about wanting to help people or make a difference in the world without specific examples.

• Lack of depth: Simply stating that you’ve always wanted to be a doctor or dentist without exploring why these aspects are important to you won’t be persuasive.

• Overemphasis on personal tragedy: While personal experiences can be powerful, avoid focusing solely on tragedy without discussing how it has shaped your understanding of the field.

• Clichéd language: Phrases like “lifelong dream” or “since I was young” are often overused and don’t add depth to your essay. Instead, focus on specific, concrete experiences.

Good and Bad Examples

Good Example:

“From the moment I stepped into the operating room as a surgical intern, I was captivated by the precision and innovation required in modern surgery. Watching Dr. Ellis perform a complex laparoscopic procedure using robotic-assisted technology was a pivotal moment that fused my love for technology with my desire to impact patient care. This experience not only solidified my commitment to medicine but also inspired my current research project, where I’m developing a new robotic instrument for minimally invasive surgery. I’m eager to contribute to the future of surgical technology, knowing that it can transform patient outcomes and make surgeries safer and more efficient.”

Why this works: This example is specific, ties the student’s interest in technology to their experiences in surgery, and shows a clear connection to their future goals in medicine. It also demonstrates an active engagement with their interest through a research project.

Bad Example:

“I’ve always wanted to be a doctor because I love helping people. Medicine is a field that combines science and compassion, and I believe that I have the qualities necessary to succeed. I am fascinated by how the human body works and want to spend my life making a difference in people’s lives.”

Why this doesn’t work: This example is too generic and doesn’t provide any specific details about what aspects of medicine intrigue the student. It lacks personal experiences and doesn’t demonstrate a deep understanding or commitment to the field.

Understanding the Prompt

This prompt asks for a personal narrative that connects your academic, extracurricular, and life experiences to your passion for STEM. It also requires you to explain how the Simons STEM program specifically will help you achieve your goals. It’s a combination of the “Why This Major?” and “Why This School?” essay tropes. The key here is to weave your personal story into a compelling narrative that demonstrates why you’re a perfect fit for the program.

Brainstorming Questions

• What first sparked your interest in STEM? Was there a specific moment or experience you can recall?

• How have your academic pursuits reflected your passion for STEM?

• What extracurricular activities have you engaged in that align with your STEM interests?

• Have you faced any challenges that have influenced your path toward STEM?

• Why do you want to join the Simons STEM program, and how will it help you achieve your goals?

What Makes a Good Response

A strong response should:

• Tell a cohesive story: Your academic, extracurricular, and life experiences should come together to form a narrative that clearly shows your passion for STEM.

• Highlight relevant experiences: Focus on specific activities or experiences that have had a significant impact on your decision to pursue a STEM career.

• Demonstrate fit with the program: Clearly articulate why the Simons STEM program is the right fit for you, using specific details about the program that align with your goals.

• Show personal growth: Reflect on how your experiences have shaped your understanding of STEM and your aspirations.

Hypothetical Student Examples

1. Ethan developed a passion for environmental science after spending summers on his grandparents’ farm, where he saw the impact of climate change firsthand. He could write about how this experience led him to major in environmental engineering and how he’s been involved in a research project on sustainable farming practices. He could explain how the Simons STEM program’s focus on interdisciplinary research will allow him to explore solutions to environmental challenges.

2. Nina was inspired by her sister’s battle with a rare genetic disorder to pursue a career in genetics. She could discuss how this personal experience, combined with her work in a lab researching CRISPR technology, has fueled her desire to contribute to genetic research. Nina might mention how the Simons STEM program’s resources will help her further her research in gene editing.

3. Aiden has been building robots since he was 10, eventually leading his high school’s robotics team to national championships. He could focus on how his love for robotics has shaped his academic journey and how he hopes to use robotics to address real-world problems. Aiden might highlight how the Simons STEM program’s advanced robotics lab will provide the perfect environment for him to develop innovative solutions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Lack of focus: Don’t try to include every experience related to STEM; instead, choose the most impactful ones that clearly connect to your passion and goals.

• Ignoring the program specifics: Failing to mention why the Simons STEM program is a good fit for you weakens your essay. Be sure to include details that show you’ve researched the program.

• Overemphasis on challenges: While it’s important to discuss challenges if relevant, don’t let them overshadow your passion and accomplishments in STEM.

Good and Bad Examples

Good Example:

“Growing up on my grandparents’ farm, I witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of climate change on our crops. This early exposure to environmental issues sparked my interest in environmental science, leading me to major in environmental engineering. But I knew the issue of climate change was too pressing to wait until I got to college. This led me to pursue an independent research project on permaculture. While my grandfather picked crops in the orchard, I parsed through journal articles and farmer testimonials. Conducting my research has deepened my commitment to finding solutions to the challenges we face. The Simons STEM program’s interdisciplinary approach and access to cutting-edge research facilities will allow me to continue to explore innovative solutions to environmental challenges beyond just permaculture, preparing me to make a significant impact in the field.”

Why this works: This example tells a cohesive story that connects the student’s background to their academic and extracurricular pursuits. By giving us details on their independent research project, it helps show the student’s passion for the topic. It also clearly articulates why the Simons STEM program is the right fit for their goals.

Bad Example:

“I have always been passionate about STEM and have participated in many science fairs and clubs throughout high school. I want to pursue a career in STEM because I enjoy problem-solving and working on challenging projects. The Simons STEM program will help me achieve my goals by providing opportunities for research and collaboration.”

Why this doesn’t work: This example is too vague and doesn’t provide specific details about the student’s experiences or how they connect to their interest in STEM. It also lacks a clear explanation of why the Simons STEM program is a good fit.

Understanding the Prompt

This prompt asks you to explain why you want to pursue a PhD in STEM and how it aligns with your educational and professional goals. The focus here is on demonstrating a clear understanding of what a PhD entails and how it will help you achieve your long-term aspirations.

Brainstorming Questions

• What are your long-term career goals, and why is a PhD necessary to achieve them?

• How does a PhD in STEM align with your academic interests and research experiences?

• What specific skills or knowledge do you hope to gain from a PhD program?

• How will a PhD in STEM enable you to contribute to your field of interest?

What Makes a Good Response

A strong response should:

• Clearly articulate your long-term goals: Explain how a PhD in STEM is essential for achieving your educational and professional aspirations.

• Demonstrate understanding of the PhD process: Show that you understand the commitment and challenges involved in pursuing a PhD, and that you’re prepared for them.

• Connect your academic and research experiences: Highlight how your past experiences have prepared you for the demands of a PhD program.

• Show contribution to the field: Discuss how you hope to contribute to your field of study through your PhD research and beyond.

Hypothetical Student Examples

1. Lydia wants to become a leading researcher in bioinformatics. She could discuss how her undergraduate research in data analysis for genomics has fueled her desire to pursue a PhD, where she hopes to develop new algorithms for analyzing genetic data. Lydia might explain how a PhD will give her the advanced skills and knowledge needed to lead her own research lab in the future.

2. Michael is passionate about renewable energy and wants to contribute to the development of new solar technologies. He could write about how his work on a senior project involving solar cells has inspired him to pursue a PhD in materials science, where he hopes to develop more efficient solar materials. Michael might also discuss how a PhD will prepare him for a career in academia, where he can mentor the next generation of engineers.

3. Sam aims to work in the field of neuroscience, specifically studying neurodegenerative diseases. She could describe how her volunteer work with Alzheimer’s patients and her research on neural pathways have solidified her goal of pursuing a PhD in neuroscience. Samantha might explain how a PhD will enable her to conduct groundbreaking research that could lead to new treatments for these diseases.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Lack of specificity: Avoid vague statements about wanting to contribute to your field without explaining how a PhD will help you do so.

• Ignoring the demands of a PhD: Failing to acknowledge the challenges of a PhD program can make your essay seem unrealistic.

• Overemphasis on prestige: Don’t focus on the prestige of having a PhD; instead, emphasize how it aligns with your specific goals and interests.

Good and Bad Examples

Good Example:

“From the first moment I stepped into Dr. Gonzalez’s lab, I knew I was home. For three years, I’ve been shadowing researchers in a genomics lab, which has confirmed my desire to one day lead a research lab focused on developing new algorithms for analyzing genetic data, which I believe will play a crucial role in advancing personalized medicine. Pursuing a PhD in bioinformatics will provide me with the advanced skills and knowledge needed to achieve this goal. Between the observations I learned from Dr. Gonzalez about how to run a lab and the skills I will develop during my time at Stony Brook, I feel I am prepared to handle the challenges of a PhD program. I am excited to contribute to the field by developing innovative tools that can improve our understanding of complex genetic data and lead to more effective treatments for patients.”

Why this works: This example is specific, connects the student’s past experiences to their future goals, and demonstrates a clear understanding of how a PhD will help them achieve their aspirations.

Bad Example:

“I want to pursue a PhD in STEM because I am passionate about research and want to contribute to my field. A PhD will give me the opportunity to work on challenging projects and make new discoveries. I believe that a PhD is the next logical step in my education and will help me achieve my career goals.”

Why this doesn’t work: This example is too vague and doesn’t provide specific details about the student’s goals or how a PhD will help them achieve them. It also doesn’t demonstrate a clear understanding of the demands of a PhD program.

Understanding the Prompt

This prompt asks you to reflect on the importance of diversity in STEM fields, particularly the advancement of historically underrepresented groups. The key is to articulate why diversity matters in STEM and how it can contribute to the field’s growth and innovation.

Brainstorming Questions

• What are the current challenges faced by underrepresented groups in STEM?

• How does diversity benefit the STEM field as a whole?

• Why is it important to you personally to support the advancement of underrepresented groups in STEM?

• How can increasing diversity in STEM lead to new perspectives and innovations?

What Makes a Good Response

A strong response should:

• Highlight the importance of diversity: Explain why it’s crucial to have a diverse range of voices and perspectives in STEM fields.

• Discuss the impact on innovation: Show how the inclusion of underrepresented groups can lead to new ideas and advancements in STEM.

• Connect to personal values or experiences: If relevant, discuss why this issue is important to you personally, possibly relating it to your background or experiences.

• Propose solutions or future goals: Mention any ideas you have for advancing diversity in STEM or how you hope to contribute to this goal in your future career.

Hypothetical Student Examples

1. Emma grew up in a community where access to STEM education was limited, especially for girls. As she’s gotten older, she’s seen the lack of female doctors and researchers result in a gap of medical knowledge about women’s bodies, which prevents women from getting the same quality of care as men in some cases. She could discuss how this experience has motivated her to advocate for the advancement of women in STEM fields.

2. David has a personal connection to the issue, as he is part of an underrepresented group in STEM. He could write about the challenges he has faced and how these have fueled his passion for creating more opportunities for others like him. David might discuss how increasing diversity can lead to a more equitable and innovative STEM field.

3. Aja is interested in the ethical implications of technology and believes that a lack of diversity in STEM can lead to biased outcomes in areas like AI and healthcare. She could explore how advancing underrepresented groups in STEM is crucial for ensuring that technological developments benefit all communities, not just a privileged few.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Being too general: Avoid broad statements about the importance of diversity without specific examples or reasoning.

• Lack of personal connection: If you have a personal connection to this issue, make sure to include it to strengthen your essay.

• Ignoring the impact on STEM: Make sure to clearly articulate how diversity benefits STEM as a field, not just why it’s important in general.

Good and Bad Examples

Good Example:

“As a first-generation college student and a woman of color, I have often felt the challenges of being underrepresented in STEM. These experiences have fueled my passion for advocating for diversity in STEM fields, as I believe that a diverse range of perspectives is crucial for innovation. When people from different backgrounds come together, they bring unique ideas that can lead to breakthroughs in technology, medicine, and science. I am committed to advancing the representation of historically underrepresented groups in STEM to ensure that the field benefits from the full range of human potential.”

Why this works: This example is personal and clearly articulates the importance of diversity in STEM. It connects the student’s experiences to their commitment to advancing underrepresented groups in STEM.

Bad Example:

“Diversity is important in all fields, including STEM. When people from different backgrounds work together, they can come up with new ideas and solutions. It’s important to advance underrepresented groups in STEM to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.”

Why this doesn’t work: This example is too vague and doesn’t provide specific reasoning or personal connection. It lacks depth and fails to articulate a clear understanding of the importance of diversity in STEM.

Understanding the Prompt

This prompt is an opportunity to delve into your identity as a writer and a reader. It asks you to reflect on a book that has significantly impacted you, connecting this reflection to your own writing style and goals for the BFA in Creative Writing. The key is to be introspective and show how your reading and writing experiences have shaped who you are and what you hope to achieve.

Brainstorming Questions

• What book has had a significant impact on you, either positively or negatively? Why?

• How did this book influence your views, writing style, or approach to storytelling?

• How does this book relate to the themes or genres you enjoy writing about?

• What do you hope to achieve as a writer, and how can the BFA program help you reach these goals?

What Makes a Good Response

A strong response should:

• Be personal and reflective: Discuss the chosen book in a way that reveals something significant about you as a writer and reader.

• Connect to your writing style: Explain how the book has influenced not just what you write, but how you write—your voice, style, or approach to storytelling.

• Showcase your goals: Clearly articulate what you hope to achieve in the BFA program and how it aligns with your aspirations as a writer.

• Be creative: Use vivid language and storytelling techniques to make your essay engaging and reflective of your writing abilities.

Hypothetical Student Examples

1. Lucas is a writer who loves blending fantasy with gritty realism. He could discuss how reading A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin reshaped his understanding of fantasy, leading him to write stories that subvert traditional fantasy tropes with morally complex characters. Lucas might explain how this book influences his current writing and how the BFA program will help him refine his unique voice by taking classes like The Ethics of the Creative Imagination.

2. Annie is drawn to poetry and the raw, emotional exploration of identity. She could write about how reading Citizen by Claudia Rankine opened her eyes to the power of poetry as a form of social commentary, which has since influenced her own poetry that tackles issues of race and identity. Maya might discuss how she hopes to use the BFA program to further explore the intersection of art and activism in her writing.

3. Olivia enjoys writing speculative fiction that explores human nature. She could discuss how The Road by Cormac McCarthy, with its sparse prose and haunting themes, deeply impacted her writing style, leading her to focus on the psychological depth of her characters in dystopian settings. Olivia might express her desire to use the BFA program to refine her ability to create compelling, character-driven narratives.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Choosing a book just to impress: Don’t pick a book because you think it’s what the admissions committee wants to hear about; choose one that genuinely resonates with you.

• Focusing too much on summary: Avoid spending too much time summarizing the book; focus instead on how it has influenced you as a writer and reader.

• Being too vague about your goals: Make sure you clearly articulate what you want to get out of the BFA program and how it aligns with your aspirations as a writer.

Good and Bad Examples

Good Example:

“When I first picked up The Road by Cormac McCarthy, I was struck by its stark, minimalist prose and the way it conveyed such profound emotion with so few words. The bleak, post-apocalyptic world McCarthy created lingered with me long after I closed the book, influencing the way I approach my own writing. I found myself drawn to crafting stories that, like The Road, explore the depths of human resilience in the face of overwhelming despair. Stony Brook’s BFA program’s emphasis on developing a distinct voice is exactly what I need to refine my style and bring my speculative fiction to life.”

Why this works: This example is reflective, connects the impact of the book to the student’s writing style, and clearly articulates what they hope to achieve in the BFA program. It also shows an understanding of the book’s influence on their writing.

Bad Example:

“I want to study creative writing because I love reading and writing stories. One book that really changed me was Harry Potter. I’ve always been inspired by the magic and adventure in the series, and it made me want to write stories that are just as exciting. The BFA program will help me become a better writer.”

Why this doesn’t work: This example is too vague and lacks depth. It doesn’t provide a specific connection between the book and the student’s writing style, nor does it clearly articulate what they hope to achieve in the BFA program. It also relies on a common book choice without offering a unique perspective.

Understanding the Prompt

This is your chance to showcase your writing abilities and style. The admissions committee wants to see the quality of your work, so it’s crucial to submit pieces that are polished and representative of your voice as a writer. You should choose works that demonstrate your strengths and align with your goals as a writer.

Brainstorming Questions

• What are your strengths as a writer? (e.g., dialogue, character development, imagery)

• Which of your works best represents your unique voice and style?

• Are there recurring themes or genres in your writing that you want to highlight?

• Which pieces are you most proud of, and why?

What Makes a Good Submission

A strong writing sample should:

• Be representative of your voice: Choose a work that best showcases your unique style and voice as a writer.

• Highlight your strengths: Submit pieces that demonstrate your strongest abilities, whether it’s crafting vivid imagery, creating complex characters, or building suspense.

• Be polished: Ensure that your submission is well-edited and free of grammatical errors. Quality is more important than quantity.

• Show range: If possible, include a variety of pieces that demonstrate your versatility as a writer, while still maintaining a cohesive representation of your style.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting unpolished work: Make sure your writing is carefully edited and polished before submitting.

• Overloading your submission: Don’t try to cram too much into your sample. Focus on quality over quantity.

• Ignoring genre or theme: If you have a specific focus in your writing, make sure it’s reflected in your submission. Don’t submit work that doesn’t align with your goals as a writer.

Final Tips

• Choose work that excites you: Your enthusiasm will come through in your writing, so select pieces that you’re passionate about.

• Consider your audience: Think about what the admissions committee is looking for and how your work can best represent your potential as a writer.

• Stay true to your voice: Don’t try to imitate someone else’s style; your authentic voice is what will stand out.

Where to Get Your Stony Brook University Essays Edited For Free

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