Harvard’s Optional Essay: How to Stand Out While Staying Authentic
3 min read
Harvard’s application process is highly competitive, and the optional essay can be a valuable tool for applicants looking to provide additional insight into their background, experiences, or intellectual interests. While it is technically optional, most successful applicants submit it. This guide explains when you should write the optional essay, how to structure it effectively, and common mistakes to avoid.
Is the Harvard Optional Essay Really Optional?
The short answer: No. While Harvard does not require this essay, many competitive applicants choose to submit it to strengthen their application.
According to Harvard College’s official admissions website, students are encouraged to use this space to provide additional information that will help the admissions committee better understand them.
Who Should Write the Harvard Optional Essay?
✅ You should consider writing it if:
- You have a significant personal story or challenge that isn’t covered elsewhere in your application.
- You want to explain gaps in your academic record, extracurriculars, or unique circumstances.
- You have a deep intellectual passion or academic interest not fully explored in your main Common App essay.
🚫 You might not need to write it if:
- Your Common App essay already provides a well-rounded view of your background.
- You do not have any new, meaningful insights to add.
Strong Topics for the Harvard Optional Essay
If you decide to write the optional essay, choose a topic that adds depth to your application. Consider these strong approaches:
1. A Defining Life Experience
Discuss a personal experience that shaped your identity or worldview. This could be overcoming adversity, a pivotal moment, or a significant achievement.
2. Intellectual Passions
Harvard values intellectual curiosity. If you have a deep passion for a particular subject, explain how it has influenced your academic journey and how you plan to pursue it at Harvard.
3. Unique Perspectives
If your background, culture, or personal experiences provide a unique perspective, share how this shapes your identity and how you will contribute to Harvard’s diverse community.
4. Unexpected Interests
Highlight an unusual hobby or project that showcases creativity, persistence, or leadership.
How to Structure the Harvard Optional Essay
A strong essay follows this basic structure:
- Hook: Start with an engaging anecdote, insight, or personal story.
- Expansion: Explain how this experience or interest has shaped you.
- Connection to Harvard: Demonstrate how this connects to Harvard’s academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, or values.
Example of a Strong Opening
“At age 10, I built my first app—a rudimentary calculator. What started as a hobby became a passion for software engineering, leading me to develop an AI-based scheduling tool. Harvard’s CS50 course excites me because it offers the hands-on, collaborative learning environment I crave.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Generic Praise for Harvard: Avoid saying “Harvard is a prestigious university” without explaining why it’s the right fit for you.
🚫 Repeating Your Common App Essay: Your optional essay should add new insights, not rehash previous content.
🚫 Overly Formal or Too Casual Tone: Be professional but let your personality shine through.
🚫 Cliché Topics: If you choose a common topic (e.g., moving to a new country, overcoming injury in sports), ensure your perspective is unique.
Sample Response to the Harvard Optional Essay
Example: Personal Growth Through an Unexpected Challenge
Prompt: Tell us something about yourself that we wouldn’t otherwise know.
“My love for storytelling began with bedtime tales, but it wasn’t until I started a podcast at 15 that I discovered the true power of narratives. Interviewing people from diverse backgrounds, from war veterans to startup founders, taught me empathy and the art of listening. At Harvard, I hope to continue sharing untold stories through The Harvard Crimson.”
Final Checklist Before Submission
- ✅ Does your essay introduce new information about you?
- ✅ Is your response deeply personal and authentic?
- ✅ Does it connect your story to Harvard’s opportunities and values?
- ✅ Have you proofread for clarity and conciseness?
Conclusion & Next Steps
The Harvard optional essay is your opportunity to share a story or perspective that sets you apart. Take advantage of this space to showcase your unique qualities and align them with Harvard’s academic and cultural environment.
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