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Smeal College of Business- PSU

Michael Waldhier, Director of Admissions, MBA & MMOL, Smeal College of Business

What is the one area of your program that you wish applicants knew more about?

I think one of the most unique aspects of the Penn State Smeal MBA Program is the extremely tight-knit nature of the class. We only accept 60 students per year, and our students spend a lot of time together both inside and outside of the classroom. The end result is a program where each student feels like part of a family, rather than simply a member of the cohort.

What’s the single most exciting development, change, or event happening at you MBA program this coming year?

We review and revamp the MBA curriculum every few years, and just completed this process for the incoming class. The end result this time is something we’re very proud of: the ability for each student to truly customize their MBA experience. To achieve this, we introduced almost 20 coursework options that students can take to focus their MBA in unique areas. Some of these options include Six Sigma, Marketing Analytics, Sustainability, Real Estate, Corporate Innovation, and Healthcare.

Walk us through the life of an application in your office from an operational standpoint. What happens between the time an applicant clicks “submit” and the time the committee offers a final decision (e.g. how many “reads” does it get, how long is each “read,” who reads it, does the committee convene to discuss it as a group, etc.)

We process applications on a rolling basis, so once an application is 100% complete, we typically begin our review within a few days. It is reviewed by three to four individuals from the admissions and career services teams and then discussed in committee to make an interview decision. This process typically takes 2-4 weeks depending on application volume. Applicants choose when to have their interview, and once that is complete, the committee reconvenes for a final decision. This last step in the process takes 1-2 weeks after the interview.

How does your team approach the essay portion of the application specifically? What are you looking for as you read the essays? Are there common mistakes that applicants should try to avoid? One key thing they should keep in mind as they sit down to write them?

Our essay question is really to get at the heart of why someone wants an MBA, what they intend to do with it, and why Penn State might be the right place to obtain their degree. The purpose of the essay is exactly that – we use it to judge if we can help each applicant achieve their goals, and if those goals are in line with our program’s strengths. Therefore, it is most important that candidates articulate those goals clearly and describe why they are important. In all cases, we want an honest perspective – when an applicant tells us what they think we want to hear, it’s a good way to get into an MBA program where they may not be satisfied with the outcome, because they weren’t honest with themselves up front. Being truthful and being yourself is more important than trying to follow the safe, middle-of-the-road path.

Do you have any application tips (for essays & recommendations) for MBA applicants?

As mentioned, be honest in the essay, and use it to showcase your background and to let your personality shine through. Most admissions teams want to get to know the real you, blemishes and all, to see if you fit with the culture of the program. It’s also very important to demonstrate coachability. Openly discuss a time you failed, or received constructive criticism, and then describe how you used that criticism to improve yourself. This shows you are still learning, still growing, and how you might apply the lessons you get in the MBA. For recommendations, choose people who you have worked with and that can talk about a time you succeeded and also perhaps a time when you failed. All of this paints a much clearer picture for us, and makes us want to know more about you in an interview.

What are the most important aspects of the MBA application process besides GMAT score, prior GPA and current job position?

One aspect that is somewhat unique in our application is our video application questions. We ask each applicant to answer 5 randomized questions on video using their computer, tablet, or phone. The questions are highly varied, and the candidate has 30 seconds to think about their answer, and one minute to speak. There is only one chance to answer the question. This tests an applicant’s ability to act under pressure, and respond in an interview style environment. It’s also a bit stressful, so it tends to let the real person shine through, which is really what our application process is all about.

How can a candidate overcome a lower GMAT score?

Like many programs, we review applications very holistically. No one component is automatically going to result in a deny decision. If you think you are weak in one area (GMAT, GPA, work experience), do what you can to make up for the deficiency somewhere else. A great recommendation can overcome low work experience, and showing initiative by taking a pre-MBA accounting or finance course can make up for a low GPA or GMAT score.

What resources are available at your MBA program to assist with internship and full-time job opportunities?

We have a full-time Career Services team on staff to work with our students to improve resumes and interview skills, and help our students find the right internships and full-time jobs. We also have a full-time Employer Relations team to connect our students with new companies who are looking for MBA talent. Finally, each student is assigned an alumni mentor and a second year MBA mentor who can help them with mock-interviews, resume workshops, and career guidance. Generally, 100% of our students get internships, and approximately 90% of them start full-time jobs within three months of graduation.

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How to Write the Penn State Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

Penn State has one, optional supplemental essay prompt for all applicants, which is essentially a personal statement. Applicants to Penn State’s Schreyer Honors College, or Accelerated Pre-Med program, will also have to respond to a fairly extensive list of supplemental prompts—2 essays and 8 short answers for the Honors College, and 4 essays for the BS/MD program.

Regardless of whether you are just applying to Penn State as a whole, or to one of these more specialized programs, you want your essays to shine. In this post, we’ll break down each prompt, so you’re prepared to write a strong, engaging response to each prompt.

Read these Penn State essay examples to inspire your writing.

Penn State Supplemental Essay Prompts

All applicants.

Prompt: Please tell us something about yourself, your experiences, or activities that you believe would reflect positively on your ability to succeed at Penn State. This is your opportunity to tell us something about yourself that is not already reflected in your application or academic records. (500 words, optional)

Schreyer Honors College Applicants

Prompt 1: Describe a problem you’ve solved or a problem you’d like to solve. It can be an intellectual challenge, a research query, an ethical dilemma – anything that is of personal importance, no matter the scale. Explain its significance to you and what steps you took or could take to identify a solution. (800 words)

Prompt 2: Isaac Asimov wrote: “Any book worth banning is a book worth reading.” Do you agree? Is such censorship ever justified? If not, explain why. If so, who or what should determine which books are read and which books are forbidden. (800 words)

Short Answers

Prompt 1: What do you hope to get at Penn State as a Schreyer Scholar to help you accomplish your future goals and aspirations? (200 words)

Prompt 2: If you were able to go anywhere in the world, outside of the country you currently reside, where would you go and why? (200 words)

Prompt 3: Tell us about your leadership experiences (community roles, family contributions, research, clubs, organizations, etc.) and why leadership is important to you. Describe the challenges and/or successes you’ve faced in these roles. (200 words)

Prompt 4: List awards or other recognitions you have received in or outside of school over the last 4 years. Which award or recognition means the most to you and why? (200 words)

Prompt 5: Tell us about a book or other media that has made you think about something in a new way. (200 words)

Prompt 6: Consider a time when you had to collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds or with different perspectives. How did this experience contribute to your personal growth and understanding of others? (200 words)

Prompt 7: Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups, including: shared geography, faith, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities or groups to which you belong and describe how it has influenced your life over the last four years. (200 words)

Prompt 8: Please use this space to share information you would like us to consider that has not been discussed elsewhere in your Schreyer Honors College application. This could include obstacles you’ve overcome, something you’re proud of that is not discussed elsewhere, or anything else you choose. (200 words)

Accelerated Premedical-Medical Program (BS/MD) Applicants

Prompt 1: Describe one non-academic activity during your high school years that has been the most meaningful to you. (250 words)

Prompt 2: Write a personal statement indicating why you want to be a physician, why you want an accelerated program and why you’ve selected this Penn State/Kimmel program. (500 words)

Prompt 3: Describe what you think your strongest qualities are as well as weaknesses that you would like to improve upon. (250 words)

Prompt 4: Tell us about a time you were unsuccessful and how you grew from this experience. (500 words)

Please tell us something about yourself, your experiences, or activities that you believe would reflect positively on your ability to succeed at Penn State. This is your opportunity to tell us something about yourself that is not already reflected in your application or academic records. (500 words, optional)

While this essay is technically optional, we still strongly encourage all applicants to complete it. Writing an optional essay provides admissions officers with more information about you, helps your application stand out, and further expresses your interest in the college you are applying to. 

One of your main objectives in all college essays should be to depict yourself as a strong addition to a specific college’s community. A good response will contain a reflection on your experiences to demonstrate a specific personal quality that you think will set you up for success at Penn State. To brainstorm, ask yourself: What do I need to succeed at Penn State? What are my strengths? 

You’ll need to think of examples that demonstrate the traits that will set you up for college success. Though the prompt says that you can pick “something about yourself, your experiences, or activities,” your choice should be something that you can show through a story or anecdote.

Almost any poor topic can be strengthened if you make it more specific:

Don’t pick something too broad, like “I have formed many friendships in different settings.” However, you could write a detailed account of a specific friendship or friend group you formed after switching high schools, explaining how you developed the skills to not only survive, but thrive in a new social community. Then, you can discuss how, at any college, but especially a big school like Penn State, forming a social network is crucial for academics (study groups, peers to help with homework, collaborators for group projects, etc.) and for making the most of your college experience.

Avoid focusing on an experience that virtually all applicants will share. “I made it through high school” is not a strong response. However, you could write about an illness you faced that almost jeopardized your ability to succeed in school. Through detailed storytelling, you could show the reader that you developed time-management skills and perseverance, which, as you can guess, are absolutely crucial for college success.

Great responses to this prompt can be quite personal since more formal academic and extracurricular activities might already be covered in your application. For example, you could relate difficult family or friendship situations you’ve negotiated to your ability to navigate a diverse and complex college community.

Regardless of which aspect of your identity, experience, or activity you pick, be absolutely sure to avoid generalizing. Many students write a 500 word essay that never uses specific examples. While these essays might sound smooth, they are almost entirely composed of clichés and generalizations. Here’s an example so you can get a better idea of what we’re talking about.

A student could write something like: 

“I have volunteered for over five years at my local food pantry. This experience has made me more appreciative of what I have, and more determined to give back. I know I’ll take these values with me to Penn State.”

Note that these sentences do not refer to a specific instance or give concrete examples. They give a general description of one activity and then make generic, high-level assertions about the results of that activity.

A strong essay will push beyond this level of resolution:

• Describe what you did at the food pantry.
• Show the perspective this has given you by giving an example of how you changed your daily activities or interactions with others as a result of this experience.
• Link these changes to success in college by discussing how you’ll dive into volunteer opportunities and community organizations. Use specific examples of clubs or organizations at Penn State, such as the Lion’s Pantry, which is dedicated to addressing student hunger.

A few words of caution: Some students will have too many things they want to squeeze into this essay. While you may feel like you’ve just left so many crucial details out of your application, you should resist the temptation to use this essay as a “catch-all” for everything “not already reflected in your application.” Note that the prompt asks you to share “something” not already included—not everything! This essay should be focused and cohesive, telling a story that proves you can succeed in college.

If you truly feel that important information has been left out of your application, try to incorporate it into your Activities Section, other essays, or, if all else fails, the Additional Information section of the Common App.

Schreyer Honors College Applicants, Essay Prompt 1

Describe a problem you’ve solved or a problem you’d like to solve. it can be an intellectual challenge, a research query, an ethical dilemma – anything that is of personal importance, no matter the scale. explain its significance to you and what steps you took or could take to identify a solution. (800 words).

Brainstorming Your Topic:

Given the length and nature of this prompt, taking the time to select a strong topic is especially important. You need to pick a topic that is nuanced enough to sustain 800 words, but also personal enough that you can answer each part of the prompt while also highlighting aspects of your personality that make you a strong fit for the Honors College.

Fortunately, the prompt’s criteria are pretty open-ended, and admissions officers go out of their way to say the scale of the issue doesn’t matter. So, to brainstorm, we recommend asking yourself open-ended questions, like:

• Which societal issues are particularly important to you?
• Are there any more local issues (at your high school or in your city, for example) that have a big impact on your life?
• Is there a problem you’ve already taken steps to solve?

Once you’ve identified a topic, you want to take a moment to think about your personal connection to it, to make sure it’s a good match for this prompt. 

For example, if you want to write about your weekly beach cleanups, but you only do them because your dad makes you, you should probably keep brainstorming. However, if you started doing them after completing a research project in your junior year chemistry class on how microplastics have impacted the local fish population, this topic would be perfect!

Tips for Writing Your Essay:

Seeing as you have plenty of words at your disposal, you want to make sure you’re thorough in describing the problem, its significance to you, and your ideas about how to solve it. To do so, you want to make sure that, like any college essay, your points are grounded in specific, personal anecdotes, as otherwise the essay may read as preachy or generic.

For example, compare the following excerpts from a hypothetical essay:

Excerpt 1: “To clean up the oceans, everyone needs to get involved. It might not feel like picking up one plastic bottle will make a difference, when there are beaches all over the world covered in trash. But if we all picked up every bottle we see, all those small actions would eventually start to add up.”

Excerpt 2: “Every summer, my family spends a week on the Oregon coast. My mom used to drive me crazy when she would interrupt my tanning session to nag me about picking up plastic bottles, empty chip bags, and forgotten toy shovels. ‘Why should I have to pick up someone else’s trash? Besides, what’s the point—there’s always more coming,’ I used to think. But then, one Saturday she dragged me along to a community beach cleanup. 200 people spent the entire day combing through the sand for even the smallest pieces of plastic, and by the time the sun set, I wasn’t even thinking about how sweaty or dirty I was. All I cared about was how pristine the white sand looked, stretching away into the distance, clean and unmarked by bright plastic.”

At their cores, these two examples are making the same point. But the first one lacks the personal details that show how the writer arrived at these realizations, and thus the takeaways read as generic, and won’t do anything to distinguish them from other qualified applicants.

The second one, on the other hand, tells us exactly what happened in the writer’s past that changed their mindset about the importance of individual action. Remember that, like with any college essay, the point of this essay is to teach your readers about who you are. So, your discussion of the problem you choose should be grounded not in scientific studies or big-picture ideas, but in the experiences you have had that have shaped not only your thoughts on this issue, but your personality as a whole.

Obviously, the second example is much longer, but, as noted above, this is one of the rare supplemental essays where space likely won’t be an issue. You have the room to provide the personal details admissions officers are looking for, so take advantage of it!

Mistakes to Avoid:

The most important pitfall to avoid has already been outlined above: make sure your essay doesn’t become too much about the problem, at the expense of teaching your readers about important aspects of your personality. You probably have much more experience with academic writing than reflective writing, so as you write and revise your first draft, make sure there aren’t any points where you instinctively slip into research-based, argumentative mode.

Schreyer Honors College Applicants, Essay Prompt 2

Isaac asimov wrote: “any book worth banning is a book worth reading.” do you agree is such censorship ever justified if not, explain why. if so, who or what should determine which books are read and which books are forbidden. (800 words).

When you sit down to start writing your response, the first thing you want to do is honestly ask yourself whether or not you agree with Asimov. Censorship is a hot topic in the news right now, so you may already have at least a partially-formed opinion. But in order to write a strong response, you need to be fully authentic. So, before you start writing, you want to spend some time really thinking about how you feel about this issue, and why.

It’s also important to note that you shouldn’t just say what you think your readers will want to hear. If your response is thoughtful and reflects a high level of critical thinking, you can argue in favor of either side of the debate.

Once you’ve decided what position you’re taking, you’ll need to work on fleshing out your justification for it. This justification needs to be more sophisticated than just “I believe in free speech, so no books should be banned,” or “I believe some books provoke dangerous ideas, like those of Nazi Germany, and so banning can sometimes be justified.” In college, particularly at an honors college, you’re going to be wrestling with difficult questions like this one every day, so you want to show admissions officers that you appreciate the nuance of this debate.

For example, a rough outline of a strong response might look something like this:

• Introduction: Provide a personal anecdote that shows the importance of books in your own life, and use that to introduce your perspective that banning books is never justified
• Point 1: Describe a situation, either from your own life or history, where the free exchange of information was essential to progress
• Point 2: Highlight the role books play in allowing not only the exchange of existing ideas, but also the introduction of new ones, by focusing on a text that moved a particular discussion forward in a substantial way
• Point 3: Acknowledge that some books do contain ideas you feel are dangerous, but argue that those dangerous ideas need to be acknowledged, lest they manifest in tangible ways, and that even labeling certain ideas as “dangerous” is dicey, because some people would call ideas that are fundamental to your worldview “dangerous”

Pay special attention to Point 3: acknowledging that the other position has merit, and then explaining why your position is still the better choice, is something you’re going to be asked to do frequently in college. Showing admissions officers that you’re already able to think at that level can take your essay from good to great.

Finally, this prompt is more academic than most other supplements out there, but you still want to draw on your own experiences in your response. Otherwise, the tone of your essay may end up rather dry, and while that isn’t a death sentence, you do ideally want your reader to be genuinely invested in your essay, and incorporating anecdotes from your own life will help build that investment.

The #1 thing you want to avoid in your response is offending your reader, even unintentionally. As noted above, the admissions officers are intentionally asking you a question with no clear answer—they want to see that you can address such a question in a tactful, respectful way. Coming across as defensive, argumentative, or ignorant won’t say anything good about your ability to contribute to high-level college discussions.

For example, you wouldn’t want to say “The only people who I’ve heard argue in favor of banning books are my aunt and uncle, who also believe a lot of other absurd things, like that Elvis is still alive, so I’ve never seen much merit in that position.” Obviously, we’ve given an extreme example to illustrate our point. But on a more realistic level, you want to keep your essay focused on yourself and your opinion, rather than speaking down on anyone else.

Schreyer Honors College Applicants, Short Answer Prompt 1

What do you hope to get at penn state as a schreyer scholar to help you accomplish your future goals and aspirations (200 words).

This is essentially a “Why This College?” prompt, but focused on Penn State’s Honors College specifically, rather than a college as a whole. The keys to writing a strong response are essentially the same, however: identify specific resources that can only be found at Schreyer Honors College (not things that you could also take advantage of as any other Penn State student!), and explain how those resources align with your goals for college and beyond.

For example, you might choose to highlight Schreyer’s goal that all Schreyer Scholars have at least one experience abroad by the time they graduate as something that is particularly attractive to you, as you are interested in international relations and thus hope to familiarize yourself with other cultures as much as possible during college.

Alternatively, you might talk about how you’re excited by the thought of living in Atherton or Simmons, one of Penn State’s two honors housing residence halls, because you hope to attend law school after college, and so the more practice you can get with lively, intellectual debates, the better.

The only thing you really want to avoid in your response is general or superficial reasons for wanting to attend Schreyer, that don’t do much to help your readers envision you as a Schreyer Scholar. For example, you don’t want to talk about the prestige of the program, or the fact that Atherton and Simmons have prime locations on campus. Admissions officers want to accept applicants who are ready to hit the ground running, and the more specific you can be in spelling out how Schreyer will help you achieve your goals, the more confident they will be in your readiness.

Schreyer Honors College Applicants, Short Answer Prompt 2

If you were able to go anywhere in the world, outside of the country you currently reside, where would you go and why (200 words).

This prompt is a more-lighthearted question that just wants a sense of your personality – are you more adventurous or more restrained? Are you more interested in culture and history or relaxation and some peace and quiet? Your answer says more than you may think about what kind of person – but there’s no right or wrong answer here. Like many of the questions before it, you’ll want to answer both honestly and in a manner that showcases your true personality. Your answer should be as unique as you can think of, but as usual, the more personal a connection to your answer the better.

For example, maybe you’re the first-generation child of immigrants from India but have never been back there yourself. You could write about how a trip to India would reconnect you with your family roots, your culture, and the pasts of your parents. 

If you don’t feel like you have a special story or experience to share, however, don’t worry. Your answer will be strong so long as it is unique to you, so brainstorm a place or country that would be at the top of your bucket list. Maybe you’re an avid hiker and want to take a crack at Mount Kilimanjaro. You can write about how visiting and climbing the mountain has always been a dream of yours that you hope to have the resources to achieve later on in life. Write about what hiking means to you and why, as well as why Mount Kilimanjaro is the end goal.

Schreyer Honors College Applicants, Short Answer Prompt 3

Tell us about your leadership experiences (community roles, family contributions, research, clubs, organizations, etc.) and why leadership is important to you. describe the challenges and/or successes you’ve faced in these roles. (200 words).

Although this prompt asks you to discuss your “leadership experiences,” plural, in reality you want to keep your focus pretty narrow, since you only have 200 words to provide the elaboration they’re asking for. You can start off with a general overview of the leadership positions you’ve held, but you pretty quickly want to zoom in on an anecdote or two that show what you’ve learned about leadership from these experiences.

For example, the start of your essay might look something like this:

“I’ve been fortunate to hold a variety of leadership positions throughout high school, from two-time captain of my volleyball team, to assistant manager of the Chipotle down the street from my house, to, as the oldest of seven children, first mate on our family’s sailing ship. But the moment that taught me the most about leadership was one in which I failed: my team had a tournament starting at 8 am, and I never woke up, as I’d accidentally set my alarm for 6:30 p.m., not a.m.”

From here, the writer can dive into a discussion of how, while many people see confidence and inspiration as the most important traits a leader can have, their experience showed them that accountability is just as crucial. And because that point is grounded in an anecdote from their own life, we know exactly why they feel this way–without that specificity, your essay will likely come across as generic or even preachy.

Schreyer Honors College Applicants, Short Answer Prompt 4

List awards or other recognitions you have received in or outside of school over the last 4 years. which award or recognition means the most to you and why (200 words).

This prompt is a great opportunity for you to paint a better picture of yourself and your accomplishments, both academic and otherwise. After listing all of your awards and recognitions, there are two main ways you can approach this question—you can highlight an honor or distinction you have received for an academic or extracurricular achievement, or you can flex your creative muscles and expand on a smaller award or appreciation you have received. 

For example, if you have been recognized for your success in an extracurricular activity with a competitive element like debate, Model UN, or robotics, you can explain the activity’s importance to you, and what the process of winning meant to you. You could also take this approach if you have won your school’s talent show, or received a ribbon in a local photography contest. Alternatively, you could talk about being voted captain of your cross country team, or awarded the lead role in your school’s musical theater production, and describe how you handled that responsibility. 

However, if you lack any formal awards, try to think of any informal recognitions you have received over the years – a superlative in the yearbook, a counselor of the summer award at a sleepaway camp, even a “Best Cousin Ever!” sticker your 5-year-old cousin gave you last Thanksgiving. While you may feel awkward writing about something not conventionally “impressive,” this approach can actually show a high level of maturity. College applications are by definition pretty braggy, so showing admissions officers that you have an appreciation for “the little things” in life can, perhaps counterintuitively, help set you apart from other applicants who may have written about more traditional, resume-y achievements.

Schreyer Honors College Applicants, Short Answer Prompt 5

Tell us about a book or other media that has made you think about something in a new way. (200 words).

Think about something that you’ve read, watched, or listened to that has stuck with you or impacted you personally. This isn’t meant to be an opportunity for you to recant your love for Shakespeare or your appreciation for Charles Dickens, although you certainly can if it’s deeply resonated with you. And that’s the key – you want to be genuine with your answer. You can go on and on about how much you admire an author or filmmaker’s style or craft – but what the admissions reader really wants to know is how a piece of media has changed your perspective and impacted you personally.

Is there a movie that you can endlessly rewatch? A book you always find yourself going back to? A podcast or an album you can’t stop listening to? The trick is to do some reflection into the “why” – media above anything else has a strictly personal connection to your mind, so see if you can figure out what about the connection to your selected media is so special. If you’re stumped, do a bit of journaling, either while participating with your chosen media or afterward, and write down how it makes you feel and what it makes you think about. Chances are you’ll be able to uncover what it means to you and how it affects you.

Perhaps your mother’s favorite movie is the musical West Side Story, and you and her went to see the Steven Spielberg remake together. Maybe she has a special connection with the musical because she’s originally from Puerto Rican – you could write about how sharing that experience with your mom got you in touch with your heritage and your roots, and got you to reevaluate what it means to be a Puerto Rican in the America of today.

Everyone has a different story, and it is tapping into that story and how it relates to your media choice that should be the basis of your response here.

Schreyer Honors College Applicants, Short Answer Prompt 6

Consider a time when you had to collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds or with different perspectives. how did this experience contribute to your personal growth and understanding of others (200 words).

This prompt very considerately spells out pretty much exactly what you need to do: describe a time when you collaborated with a diverse group of people, and explain why that experience was significant to your personal growth/understanding of others. One important thing to keep in mind is that, as you think about which experience you want to focus on, the phrases “diverse backgrounds” and “different perspectives” can be read in a variety of ways. 

For example, you could write about your last Thanksgiving dinner, and focus on the wide range of ages present at the table, from your 97-year-old grandmother to your infant cousin. You could then talk about how this experience showed you that, if people really want to, we can always get along: we go out of our way to be polite and respectful towards family, even when we don’t particularly want to, but there’s no reason we couldn’t do the same for others.

Alternatively, you could write about your part-time job at a ski lodge, where your coworkers came from all over the state, and some were much stronger skiers than others. You could use this experience as an avenue into talking about how if everyone has a shared goal, and is willing to contribute whatever they’re able in pursuit of that goal, having different skill sets actually becomes an asset, as each person’s strengths balance out someone else’s weaknesses.

Schreyer Honors College Applicants, Short Answer Prompt 7

Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups, including: shared geography, faith, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, or intellectual heritage. choose one of the communities or groups to which you belong and describe how it has influenced your life over the last four years. (200 words).

This is an example of the classic “Diversity” prompt, so you have two main goals in your response: highlight some aspect of your identity, and explain how that part of you has shaped your personality as a whole. If you just say “I lived in Italy from age 8 to age 14” or “I come from a family where we don’t bleed red, but green, for the Philadelphia Eagles,” but don’t explain what you’ve learned from these experiences, your reader won’t actually understand you any better.

Instead, like always, you want to include a specific anecdote or two that highlight some personality trait, or part of your worldview, that you wouldn’t have if you weren’t a part of this community. Take the Eagles example above. Later in the essay, you might say something like:

“This fandom has helped me connect with family members who I otherwise might not know. Like my grandpa, who has been suffering with dementia since before I was born. He’s unable to ask me about my classes or my lacrosse team, but when we watch the Birds together, I feel like we’re having a conversation all our own. Some things are better said without words.”

In this excerpt, the student doesn’t just list a community they’re a part of, but also shows us why that community is so important to them.

Finally, note that the prompt gives a broad definition of “community.” Hopefully, our two examples also help emphasize that you don’t need to write about any one particular thing. If your race has been a huge part of shaping your identity, then you should of course write about it! But you can also write a strong essay about any community you’ve been a part of, even ones that may seem a little unconventional.

Schreyer Honors College Applicants, Short Answer Prompt 8

Please use this space to share information you would like us to consider that has not been discussed elsewhere in your schreyer honors college application. this could include obstacles you’ve overcome, something you’re proud of that is not discussed elsewhere, or anything else you choose. (200 words).

This prompt is the last opportunity for you to fill in any gaps left over in your application to the Schreyer Honors College. Look over your application and all your previous responses and reflect on if there’s anything still left unsaid. Remember, the admissions reader wants the clearest picture of you as they can possibly get, and the more information you can provide them about yourself the better.

Here are some examples of details you may wish to write about here:

• Unusual circumstances or hardships (financial hardships, first-generation status, illness, tragedy, etc.)
• Family responsibilities that may have prevented students from taking traditional extracurriculars
• Unique extracurricular that wasn’t written about in another part of the application outside of the Activities Section
• Describing your identity in the context of race, gender, or LGBTQ+

This prompt is going to be on an extremely case-by-case basis, so do what feels right for you and remember that you don’t have to embellish anything about yourself or your life in an attempt to make it sound more interesting to an admissions reader. They really just want to get to know you as your authentic self, so make sure that you’re answering this prompt in a manner that is genuine and honest.

Accelerated Premedical-Medical Program (BS/MD) Applicants, Prompt 1

Describe one non-academic activity during your high school years that has been the most meaningful to you. (250 words).

This prompt is the classic Extracurricular Activity essay . Remember that the admissions committee already has a list of your extracurricular activities, so make sure you’re delving beyond a simple list of your responsibilities. You’ll want to share your emotions and thoughts as you participate in this activity, as well as how it’s impacted you.

As you choose your activity, consider which qualities you’ve already demonstrated in your application, and which ones you’d like to highlight more. If you’ve already written about one activity in your Common App essay, there’s no need to repeat it here. Or, maybe your Common App essay demonstrates resilience when you also consider yourself a very ambitious person. Then, you might want to pick an activity that highlights your ambition.

If you’ve had any jobs or internships in the medical field, this is your opportunity to expand on your experience and what it may have taught you. However, the key to this prompt is to choose something that was the most meaningful to you. Don’t feel like you have to choose an extracurricular in medicine just because you’re applying to a BS/MD program. 

Once you’ve chosen an activity to write about, reflect on how it has shaped who you are. This is extremely important, as a common mistake with this prompt is to focus too much on the activity itself without explaining the “why” behind its importance. What lessons has the activity taught you? What skills did you learn? Why has this activity kept you engaged or kept you motivated? These are just a few of the questions that can guide your answer.

Accelerated Premedical-Medical Program (BS/MD) Applicants, Prompt 2

Write a personal statement indicating why you want to be a physician, why you want an accelerated program and why you’ve selected this penn state/kimmel program. (500 words).

As you are probably aware already, the Penn State-Kimmel program is a highly rigorous seven-year program that will require you to commit to a career in medicine. It is not a fast track to becoming a doctor, but rather a set path to reaching that goal. Keeping that in mind, this prompt should be somewhat easy to answer. It is simply a space asking you to explain why you are interested in medicine and the program specifically, which means your answer will be best the more it sounds like you.

Brainstorming a list of reasons why you want to become a physician will be a great starting point – there will likely be several things that draw you to this career path, so list as many you can think of and use that as a jumping-off point. Some questions that can get you thinking may include:

• What was the first experience that made you think about medicine as a career?
• Are there any subjects in school that gave you an interest in medicine? What about extracurriculars?
• What do you hope to do as a physician? Any specific field you would like to work in?
• Are there any personal experiences that you have that make you want to be a physician?

Of course, there are dozens of other questions that you can ask yourself to get a solid foundation for this prompt, but the point is to Jeopardy-style your way into an answer. Ask yourself a series of questions and see what answers you come up with!

Once you describe your reasons for pursuing medicine, you can move forward to the next two parts of the prompts, which are more or less the same question – why this accelerated program? 

When it comes to explaining your interest in an accelerated program, the admissions committee has likely heard it all: guaranteed admission to medical school, getting your MD sooner, etc. But what will these benefits do for you specifically? What will you do with the extra time you’ll have from not needing to apply for medical school, or being able to graduate early? Maybe you have a specific clinic you want to spend a lot of time in, or perhaps you want to serve patients in countries impacted by climate change, which will only get more urgent over the next several years. Dig deeper beyond the obvious benefits of an accelerated program.

Finally, you want to explain why the Penn State-Kimmel Program is right for you. How will it help you achieve your specific goals? This will require you to do a fair amount of research on the program and the Sidney Kimmel Medical College. Look into the specific courses, research opportunities, statements from alumni, and more. 

For example, maybe you want to help develop immunotherapies for cancer after your aunt received an experimental treatment that worked wonders. You could express interest in contributing to the Immune Cell Regulation & Targeting Research Program at Jefferson Health (the home of the Sidney Kimmel Medical College). Or, maybe you want to conduct research on the social determinants of health as a Black woman, particularly when it comes to race. Since Philly (where the Kimmel Medical College is located) is 40% Black, the city would be a good setting for your research.

A large thing to keep in mind is that this program is a 7-year commitment to getting an MD, so you’ll want to frame your answer around how you’ve wanted to be a doctor for a large part of your life. The questions you ask yourself and the information you find on the website will not only help you with this prompt, but also help you figure out if this program is right for you!

Accelerated Premedical-Medical Program (BS/MD) Applicants, Prompt 3

Describe what you think your strongest qualities are as well as weaknesses that you would like to improve upon. (250 words).

This is a common question not only in college applications, but also career interviews, so your answer to this question may even prove helpful down the road!

This prompt is more straightforward, so you can simply discuss a few strengths and weaknesses. Given the word count, we recommend sticking to 1-2 each. Try to follow them up with examples of times you demonstrated those qualities. 

If your strengths relate to medicine, that’s all the better! But no need to explain how these qualities will benefit you in medicine. The connection can be implicit, as doctors need many soft skills.

For example, maybe one of your key skills is that you’re very organized – you could explain how you managed seven different committees as Student Body President, and how you kept track of their progress by having them use a color-coded Google Sheet. The implicit connection to medicine is that being a physician requires you to keep tabs on a plethora of patients and follow-up on their changing needs.

When you get to the weakness part of the question, remember that this prompt is meant to get you thinking about what you believe you can improve upon. For instance, you don’t want to write that you’re not a people person. Not only is this an aspect of your personality that may be difficult to change, but it is also an essential component of becoming a physician. 

Think about weaknesses that you can work on – for example, maybe you have trouble with criticism and take it personally because you’re very proud of the work you do. But, you also recognize how important it is in improving your work. So, you’ve already started actively seeking out criticism, such as submitting your artwork to art feedback Discord servers.

Your answer to these questions will give the admissions reader a sense of your work style and will help evaluate if you are a good fit for the requirements of the program, so remember to frame your answer with that in mind. 

Accelerated Premedical-Medical Program (BS/MD) Applicants, Prompt 4

Tell us about a time you were unsuccessful and how you grew from this experience. (500 words).

Speaking of questions that you’ll likely get in job interviews, this is another classic. This prompt will get you reflecting on any experience, both in and out of the classroom, where you had some sort of shortcoming, and how you applied that knowledge to future endeavors. 

Admissions readers know that in a program like this one, you’re bound to fail at one point or another – they just want to see that you know how to grow from your mistakes. There are a plethora of examples you could probably choose from, but the best one will be the most personal to you.

Keep in mind that your topic doesn’t need to be medicine-related. The point of this prompt is simply to see how you pick yourself up after a failure. You don’t even need to have succeeded in the end; what’s important is that you show what you learned.

This prompt falls under the Overcoming Challenges essay archetype, so we encourage you to read our full guide on that. 

Roughly 50% of the essay should describe the process of overcoming the challenge. In this portion of the essay, you should lay out the basics of the challenge, discuss the steps you took to overcome it, and any final accomplishment that illustrates what you’ve overcome. 

The remaining 50% of the content (spread throughout the overall narrative) should cover your state of mind, your emotional state, and how your perception of the challenge has changed over time. This should span the initial challenge, the steps you took to overcome it, and the final accomplishment (if there is one). 

Where to Get Your Penn State Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your Penn State essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

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Welcome to the Smeal College of Business at Penn State

Your business success starts with better business partners.

Penn state smeal one-year mba.

The One-Year MBA from the Penn State Smeal College of Business is a STEM-designated program designed for a range of students from recent graduates with limited experience to working professionals.

With Smeal as your business partner, you will sharpen your business acumen as you earn your MBA credential that can prepare you for career advancement.

• 9-month format at Penn State's University Park campus
• Taught by experienced, world-class faculty
• STEM-designated
• Stackable with other one-year master's degrees
• No GMAT required
• Global and leadership immersion experiences

Let's go into business, together.

Don't just take our word for it.

Smeal professors rank among the best in the world.

Our graduates are prepared to succeed according to top college recruiters.

Professionals rank Smeal as one of the best for supply chain education.

One-Year MBA Program Structure

Fall semester.

• Complete the first two 7-week modules of core coursework in person at Penn State's University Park campus

Spring Semester

• Complete modules 3 and 4 of core coursework
• Graduate with your degree in May

Why partner with Penn State Smeal?

Earn two master's degrees in two years.

Penn State Smeal offers the ability to stack multiple master's degrees and add specializations by waiving overlapping classes so you can build a learning plan as unique as your ambitions.

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As a Smeal master's student, you can leverage both the career resources available through the University and personalized support exclusively provided to our graduate community. We're here to help you develop your career strategy and connect you with top recruiters.

Reputation matters.

The AACSB-accredited Penn State Smeal College of Business is an internationally ranked research institution. Our world-class faculty are consistently ranked in the top 10 for research published in leading academic journals.

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Our Penn State Smeal community is your greatest business asset. Our graduates are everywhere in the world and always in your corner - ready to open doors, offer advice and cheer you on

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How to write the Penn State essays

The recording will load in a moment., about this livestream, pennsylvania state university | penn state.

Known particularly for its flagship University Park campus, Pennsylvania State University is home to 24 campuses scattered throughout the state. Originally founded as Farmers’ High School of Pennsylvania in 1855, and it is widely known as a prestigious public research university today.

So, how do you get into this “Public Ivy”? One key to a standout application is by writing stellar essays. In this stream, Robert will cover how to write the optional all-applicant essays, as well as essays for the Schreyer Honors College and the BS-MBA program.

Come prepared to take notes and ask questions, as there will be time throughout the session for Robert to interact with you all, and a Q&A at the end!

Undergrad College: Yale University '21

Major: Ethics, Politics & Economics; Classics (Intensive)

Work Experience: As a recent graduate of Yale University, I am excited to begin my first year with CollegeVine! In many ways, CV was a natural fit for me -- at Yale, I worked for over two years in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, beginning as a Senior Interviewer in the summer of 2019, during which I interviewed over 200 first-year applicants for the 2019-2020 college admissions cycle. After the summer ended, I became Lead Recruitment Coordinator, a full-time position responsible for executing and overseeing Yale’s numerous post-admissions decision yield initiatives, as well as serving as a spokesman for the university both in person and online. Over the past two years, I have had the privilege of interacting with hundreds of students and their families at all stages of the college application process.

My Admissions Story: Having always been interested in studying a variety of subjects within the Humanities and Social Sciences, I applied to a smattering of liberal arts colleges and universities (mostly on the East Coast) with strong departments in these areas, large and diverse student bodies, and varied extracurricular opportunities. When my college admissions decisions rolled in, I immediately accepted an offer from my dream school, Yale University, which I had always felt best embodied the opportunities and goals that I desired from my college experience -- and since that day, I’ve never looked back.

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College Essays

If you want to go to Penn State , then the Penn State essay is one of your big chances to show how you’re different from other students in your application for admission . In order to really make this component of the application work to your advantage, you’ll need a solid strategy for writing a concise, unique, and persuasive Penn State essay!

Writing your Penn State admissions essay might seem intimidating at first, but we’re here to guide you through the process. This article will help you write a stellar Penn State essay by: 

• Explaining purpose of the Penn State Essay
• Outlining the three steps to writing a solid Penn State Essay
• Providing a breakdown of Penn State essay examples
• Giving you three practical tips for writing an exceptional essay

Let’s dive in!

The Penn State essay is an important part of your Penn State application because it can make you stand out from other applicants!

What’s the Penn State Essay?

The Penn State essay, sometimes also called the Penn State supplemental essay, is a 500 word written response included in the Penn State application for admission . 

The prompt for this essay invites applicants to tell the admissions committee about themselves. Here’s the prompt you’ll have to answer:

Please tell us something about yourself, your experiences, or activities that you believe would reflect positively on your ability to succeed at Penn State. This is your opportunity to tell us something about yourself that is not already reflected in your application or academic records. We suggest a limit of 500 words or fewer. 

This essay prompt is essentially asking applicants to write a response that is very similar to what is known as a personal statement. College admissions typically use an applicant’s personal statement to better understand who the applicant is as a person and what strengths they will bring to the university. 

In other words, the Penn State Essay response is an applicant’s chance to show what makes them unique in the admissions process. 

3 Steps to Answering The Penn State Essay Prompt

If we break down the pieces of what the Penn State prompt is asking, we can identify three main tasks that you need to complete in order to write a killer essay . These tasks are as follows: 

• Identify something about yourself (e.g. a skill, ability, character trait), one of your experiences, or an activity you have been involved in, and 
• Explain the meaning or significance of that aspect of yourself in order to
• Prove that you embody what it means to be a Penn State student. 

While whipping out a 500 word essay response that covers these topics may sound easy, it’s a bit trickier in practice. It’s important that you think carefully about your strategy and come up with a clear plan for your essay response. Remember: your essay is an important part of your admissions application, so you want to spend time getting it right. 

Now, we’re going to walk you through how to address each of these three major points in your essay in order to make admissions counselors sit up and take notice. 

Step 1: Select a Topic to Write About

To begin the process of drafting your Penn State essay, you need to select a meaningful attribute, experience, or activity that makes a positive case for your ability to succeed at Penn State . You need to identify these meaningful experiences or attributes because of the first part of the Penn State essay prompt, which states: 

Please tell us something about yourself, your experiences, or activities that you believe would reflect positively on your ability to succeed at Penn State. 

To do this, start by taking inventory of the character traits, experiences, or involvement in activities that you’re most proud of, passionate about, or are the most meaningful to you. We recommend you start by writing a list of the things that come to mind. If you want, you can divide it into categories based on character traits/abilities, experiences, and activities. As you put together this list, don’t worry about whether the things you’re coming up with are “good” or not — you’re just brainstorming ideas at this point!  

If you’re stuck and have no idea where to start, that’s okay, too. Try asking yourself these questions to get you started: 

• What is my favorite memory? And why? 
• What’s my favorite thing to do in the whole world? Why do I love it? 
• If my friends had to describe me in one word, what would they say?

Once you start jotting down ideas, you’ll probably find that you’re able to come up with quite a few. The traits, experiences, and activities that you list out can vary widely and come from different areas of your life, including experiences with friends and family, academic pursuits, extracurricular activities, work with community organizations and volunteerism, political activism, travels, strong memories from childhood, or challenges you’ve faced in life. The possibilities aren’t limited to the ones we just mentioned; this list is simply meant to give you a jump start for brainstorming. 

Once you’ve listed out all the meaningful traits/abilities, experiences, and activities that you can think of, evaluate them in order to select one item from the list that you will address in your Penn State essay. To narrow it down to one item, consider asking yourself the following questions: 

• Which of these items do I feel the strongest positive emotional connection to? 
• Which of these items am I the most proud of? 
• Which of these items could I tell a story about? 
• Which of these items makes me unique or different from other people? 

You don’t necessarily have to use these questions to select your essay topic, but if you find that you answer several of these questions with the same experience or activity, that might be a good clue that you should choose that item as the topic of your Penn State essay. 

Once you pick a topic, it's time to figure out what it says about you as a person. This essay is designed to help admissions counselors get to know you. 

Step 2: Think About What Your Topic Says About You 

Once you’ve selected a single character trait/ability, experience, or activity from your list, the second step of responding to the Penn State essay prompt is to tell a compelling story. 

You want to engage your reader while explaining what the trait/activity/characteristic you’ve chosen says about you as a person. 

To get started on this step, it’s a good idea to do some freewriting or brainstorming. Try to identify the ways in which the experience or activity you chose showcased a talent, skill, or ability you possess in a meaningful or valuable way. It’s important to be able to explain your perception of how this experience or activity shaped you into a person who will bring something positive to Penn State.

Here’s what we mean: say Katerina has decided that she wants to write about making the varsity squad for her school’s soccer team. In her freewrite, she writes about how the accomplishment makes her feel (proud, excited, enthusiastic), and she also writes a bit about the hard work it took for her to get there. Not only does she jot down ideas about going to the State tournament and making a game-winning goal, she also writes about how she missed making the squad in 9th grade, but instead of quitting, she got up an hour early every day over the summer to fit in extra practice. 

In this example, Katerina is trying to get a better understanding of why her topic is important to her, and what kind of story she can tell the admissions committee to help them understand her better. In this case, Katerina may decide to focus on how she didn’t give up and put in extra work to make her dreams come true...and it ended up paying off in a big way! 

Keep in mind that it doesn’t matter if the item you choose to write about is the most prestigious accomplishment from your résumé — you have the rest of your Penn State application to account for those accomplishments. Rather, the Penn State Essay is your time to tell the story of the real person behind your long list of accolades. If you can tailor this story to focus on a specific, detailed experience, activity, or positive attribute you possess, your essay will be more impactful.

Step 3: Tie Your Story Back to Penn State

After you’ve nailed down the way that you want to describe your uniqueness as an applicant, you need to define your understanding of what success at Penn State means to you . 

Why do you need to do this? Because of the instructions in the first sentence of the Penn State essay prompt, which states: 

Please tell us something about yourself, your experiences, or activities that you believe would reflect positively on your ability to succeed at Penn State . 

Penn State Admissions wants you to make a clear connection between your reflections on the experience you choose to write about and the opportunities for success that Penn State offers to its students. In order to make this connection effectively in your essay response, you need to explain how your story shows that you’re a perfect fit for Penn State. 

To get started, do your research on the culture, identity, and opportunities provided for students at Penn State . Use any information you may have gathered from visits to Penn State’s campus, attending admissions events, talking with current students or alumni, or perusing Penn State’s website to help you construct a complete picture of the culture of Penn State and what the school has to offer. 

Also, dig into specific opportunities you want to take advantage of while you’re attending Penn State. What does Penn State offer you that no other college can give you? Maybe that’s a specific degree plan, unique courses, or even a specific professor you want to work with. The more specific you are about how you’ll fit into the Penn State community, the better. 

So let’s go back to Katerina. Katerina wants to be an engineer, and in her research, she learned that Penn State’s BEST Center is working on improving battery technology. Since Katerina wants to work in the tech field, the BEST Center will help her prepare for her future career. 

So now Katerina needs to use her story about her soccer experience to explain how she’ll succeed as an engineering student at Penn State . One way she might do that is by saying that engineering is a demanding degree, and the persistence she learned on the soccer field will set her up for doing well as a Penn State engineering student. She could even take it a step further and explain that the creative problem solving she developed in her soccer training will help her succeed as she researches new battery technology as a part of the BEST Center, too.

This definition of “success” should inform how you tell the story of yourself in your Penn State essay. The admissions committee doesn’t expect every applicant to define success in the same way. In fact, Penn State admissions wants to see that you’ve really thought through your potential to be a good fit as a student at Penn State based on a thorough understanding of what Penn State has to offer a student with your past experiences and vision for the future. You should be able to define your path to success and explain how Penn State will help you get there.  

If you're still not sure what your Penn State essay should look like, take a look at our example essay below.

A Penn State Essay Example

There are many different ways that a Penn State essay can be successful but, in general, excellent essays talk about a specific experience, tell a memorable story, and connect the story of that experience to your definition of success at Penn State. 

To help you understand what these moves can look like in practice, let’s check out Penn State essay examples: 

Every morning during the spring of my junior year of high school, my alarm went off at 4:45 a.m. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, many people in my hometown were laid off from their jobs struggling to make ends meet. My family owns a farm, and we grow many different types of vegetables and have laying hens, too. So when my morning chores were completed, I would jump in the truck with my dad and my sister to drive into town and deliver free vegetables and eggs to families in need. 

My family could help others because of our farm. That made me think: what if other people could grow their own food and then share what they had with others? That’s why I started an online, community-based agriculture program at my school. I wanted to help others learn how to grow their own food, then share that food with others in their community. 

While the group started out small with just a few students, within three weeks, 40 of my classmates joined in. Together, we organized a seed, plant, and garden tool drive that helped give 70 families in our town enough supplies to start their own small gardens. And many of my classmates have committed to growing gardens of their own! This experience taught me how important agriculture is, but also how agriculture can directly impact the well-being of those around me. 

As a major in community, environment, and development at Penn State, I would have the opportunity to learn about and envision strategies for helping consumers in local communities become aware of and educated about the social and economic benefits to supporting their local farmers. By taking supplemental courses in computer programming, I would prepare myself to create user-friendly online spaces that are dedicated to sharing information about local food systems with consumers in local communities. Ultimately, I believe that Penn State will help me achieve my dream of starting a nationwide, online program to help people in undeserved communities start community agriculture programs of their own. 

Now, let’s break down what this example essay does well. In this essay, the writer provides a clear definition of what success at Penn State will look like for them as a student. This essay emphasizes the student’s personal goals, knowledge of the opportunities Penn State has to offer, and commitment to investing in the Penn State community and society at large . That will definitely make an impact with admissions counselors! 

This student also helps admissions counselors get to know them by telling a story that includes specific details and vivid imagery from an experience that other applicants may not have . The essay helps the reader get a better sense of who this person is, their background, and the things they care about by telling the short story about delivering homegrown care packages to people in the community. This story will help the admissions committee remember the applicant and will set them apart from other applicants as well. 

But most essays aren’t perfect, and this one isn’t, either. One thing this essay response can improve upon is the way in which it connects the student’s idea of success to Penn State . In the last paragraph, the student should focus more on how specific opportunities provided by Penn State’s agriculture department, like its collaborative research into sustainable agriculture , will help the student achieve their goals. 

All in all, t his Penn State essay provides a good example of how to address all aspects of the essay prompt , be clear and concise in your writing, and reveal important aspects of who you are as a person that your other application materials may not show. 

3 Tips for Writing an Excellent Penn State Essay

You want your Penn State essay to persuade admissions that you’ll be a fantastic addition to Penn State’s incoming class. To help you present yourself in a way that Penn State admissions will remember, check out our three tips for writing an outstanding Penn State essay to help you stand out from the crowd. 

Tip 1: Be Specific

If you want your Penn State essay to be memorable, you need to be specific . Throwing out a bunch of abstract character traits or claims as to why you’ll be successful at Penn State won’t help your essay stand out. Instead, give your essay a coherent focus by selecting one or two related character traits, experiences, or activities that show your ability to be successful at Penn State. 

The point of the Penn State essay is to shoot for depth, not breadth. You already showcase your grades, coursework, and awards through other parts of your Penn State application. The essay is the time to reveal more about who you are and what you will bring to Penn State by showing how you’ve been successful in a past situation. Choosing a specific experience and diving into the details of it will show that you’re more than just a list of achievements on a résumé—you’re a real human being. 

Tip 2: Give Concrete Examples

When writing your Penn State essay, examples are a crucial form of support. When you select one or two specific elements  to focus on in your essay, you need to be able to elaborate on those things through specific and engaging examples. 

For instance, you don’t want to simply say, “My adaptability to a range of situations predicts my potential for success as a student at Penn State.” An admissions committee may read that sentence and ask, What makes you so adaptable? What activities or experiences demonstrate evidence of your adaptability? What has your adaptability helped you achieve or accomplish? 

Instead of making a vague, abstract claim like the one in the paragraph above, you need to be more specific, which you can do by providing an example . 

Here’s how a writer could elaborate on their adaptability in their essay: 

Starting your senior year of high school at a new school probably sounds daunting, but after moving seven times in seven years, I was prepared for the ins and outs of being the new kid on my last first day of school. Moving so many times due to my father’s work in the military has given me the opportunity to experience different cultures, learn new languages, and cultivate the ability to make meaningful connections with new people who are very different from me in a matter of minutes. During my senior year at a new school, I used these skills to mobilize my fellow students for a school wide walkout in support of DACA. 

Do you see the difference? The example above gives specific details of what life experience led this student to become adaptable rather than simply making an unsupported claim .

This example is also memorable because it uses vivid language. When you read it, you can imagine the student traveling the world, confidently stepping foot into a new school, and building connections with fellow students for social action. 

In your Penn State essay, examples like this one can be used to make meaningful connections between your vision for your life as a student and a clear definition of success . Using examples in this way will make your essay memorable and unique. 

Tip 3: Don’t Rehash Your Résumé

It’s tempting to rehash the list of accomplishments on your résumé in your Penn State essay, especially if your résumé is packed full of prestigious awards and experiences. However, keep in mind that there are other areas of the Penn State application that explicitly ask for this information. 

When the admissions committee sits down to read your essay response, they’re looking to learn something new about you—something that your résumé can’t tell them . So, instead of listing off accomplishments or stating the facts of what you’ve achieved, pick an aspect of who you are that might not be super apparent. That can include personality traits (maybe you’re really funny), unique experiences you’ve had (maybe you rescued kittens one summer!), or something else that makes you uniquely you. 

Just remember: your essay is a chance for you to make a powerful impression on your readers, so don’t waste it! 

Next Steps 

If you’re applying to Penn State, you need to make sure you’re meeting some of the school’s other admissions requirements . Here’s a guide to the Penn State admissions process to get you started . You can also learn more about the Penn State ACT and Penn State SAT standards , too. 

Are you looking for more college essay tips and tricks? Don’t worry: we’ve got 13 more for you! 

If you’re applying to other schools besides Penn State, y ou may find that you have to write “Why This College?” essays . If you’re not sure what those are, be sure to check out this article.

Ashley Sufflé Robinson has a Ph.D. in 19th Century English Literature. As a content writer for PrepScholar, Ashley is passionate about giving college-bound students the in-depth information they need to get into the school of their dreams.

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A successful stanford gsb essay example.

March 28, 2023

“What matters most to you, and why?” This is a huge question and one that requires a great deal of thought before answering. How do you approach this essay prompt that the (GSB) poses in its application? To help you, we have recorded a video offering guidance on this topic! Be sure to subscribe to … Read More  

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Penn State Smeal College of Business Essay Tips and Examples

August 3, 2022

The Penn State Smeal College of Business takes a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to its one required, written application essay, asking candidates to explain the most basic factors behind their pursuit of an MBA: where they want to go professionally, why they believe they are positioned to reach their career objectives, and what role the MBA … Read More  

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Penn State Smeal is more than a college of business.

We're more like a college of business partners. Wherever you are today or imagine yourself tomorrow, we are an active and connected community of Penn Staters, 760,000+ strong, who are committed to preparing you for your next great opportunity. And the one after that.

Learn more about our academic programs:

Our Stories: #SmealBusinessPartners

Flexible Learning

Recent changes to Smeal's graduate program portfolio are empowering busy professionals to pursue their educational ambitions.

A Scholar in Responsible Marketing

A Smeal Ph.D. graduate's inspiration to restore trust in his field has translated to career success.

On-The-Job Experience

Internships and co-ops prepare Smeal students to make an impact in the real world.

The Road to University Park

With the support and resources of the 2+2 program, two students who started their collegiate careers at Penn State commonwealth campuses found success at Smeal.

Fostering Mentorship

A professional relationship and partnership allowed Penn State Smeal MBA student Kärin Strom to embrace her strengths and navigate a new career path in tech.

Elevating the Student Experience

The Smeal Office of Diversity Enhancement Programs collaborated with partners to strategically design and build a welcoming engagement space for students, staff, and faculty.

Opportunities over Obstacles

Penn State Smeal's Business Opportunities Summer Session (BOSS) helps underrepresented students envision a future in business.

Mastering the Business of Health Care

How two physicians and longtime friends turned to the Penn State Online MBA to enhance their leadership skills.

A Bridge to Crypto

A Penn State Smeal alum is breaking down barriers in cryptocurrency investing by pioneering a new wave of accessibility in FinTech.

The Tie That Binds

There's a blue and white thread that runs through generations of families in Pennsylvania, across the United States, and even around the world. Read more about multigenerational families rooted in Happy Valley and Penn State Smeal.

Collaborative Competitors

How a team of Smeal students found the right combination of skill, confidence, and mutual respect to win seven case competitions.

Embracing the Unknown

As the founder and CEO of a startup beverage company launched during a pandemic, entrepreneur and Smeal graduate Kathryn Dougherty welcomes discomfort recognizing there's a lot to be learned from the feeling.

Attracting and preparing the best of the best

Smeal's Sapphire Leadership Academic Program keeps improving and expanding its impact on the next generation of leaders.

From Classmates to Business Partners

Scott Sine was confident he had a great business idea - he just needed confirmation. Inspired by the ways the peers in his cohort engaged with and challenged their professors, the Penn State Smeal Executive MBA student realized his classmates were the perfect partners to help him solidify his plans.

Two pivotal moments in Brandon Lyons' life happened on the same day, exactly three years apart. The first threatened to limit him in ways he'd never imagined. The second expanded his potential in ways he'd only dreamed.

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Jason Borrelli said that when he and Julie King (now Borrelli) met on a hike up Mount Nittany during their junior year, they could not have envisioned how their lives would unfold or the impact they would eventually make at their alma mater.

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Wherever you are in your career, Smeal has a program to help you achieve your goals and make an impact. Our highly-ranked degrees and certificates are collaborative, innovative, and rooted in practice - giving you the experience, skills, and perspective to become an ethical leader, poised to do business that betters.

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With the Smeal Honor Code at the core, integrity is a fundamental part of our culture and permeates what we do as a leading business school.

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At Smeal, we are accelerating the integration of sustainability in business by making it an integral part of our curriculum, culture, and expertise.

Bringing a Diverse Community Together

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Lizabeth Zlatkus '81 Accounting

"I think education is the cornerstone of both success and fulfillment in life. If my husband and I can help students have access to that, we're the ones who are rewarded."

Farnoosh Torabi '02 Finance, International Business

"Because I've achieved some success in my career, I want to give back. I choose Penn State because the University has given so much to me. It's where I got my grounding and where I learned what I wanted to do."

George Strickler '69 Accounting

"My father, several aunts and uncles, and my two sons are also Penn State graduates. For the last 15 years, I have been an active member of Smeal's Board of Visitors. I am grateful for the opportunities a Penn State education provided for me and my family throughout my career"

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Admission Criteria

The Penn State Smeal Master's in Business Analytics program features a two-part application process. During this process, you will be required to submit the following:

• Copies of official educational transcripts (and copy of degree certificate if applicable)
• Program-specific questions: Ensure that you respond to all questions requesting information, especially when it is marked as required. 
• Reference contacts (3): Provide the names, titles, relationships, and contact information for three professional or academic references. A letter of recommendation will not be requested or required. In the event we need more information, we will reach out to your references.
• Official English language proficiency exam scores (for international applicants )
• Application fee: $65
• Within 24 hours of starting your Graduate School Online Application, you will receive a link to complete your virtual interview and essay. Please check your spam folder or inbox filters for the invitation. The virtual interview consists of answering three behavioral questions in a recorded video format within a timed session. The essay portion requires a written response to an admissions essay question within a timed session. Your interview and essay should be completed within seven days of submitting your Graduate School Online Application.

To be considered for admission, all components of the application process must be completed, submitted, and received by the respective deadline.

Application Deadlines

The Penn State Smeal M-BAN has multiple application deadlines throughout the year. Applications are reviewed and decisions are made on a rolling basis.

Admission Decisions

All applications will undergo a comprehensive review process conducted by both the Penn State Smeal M-BAN program admissions office (assessing M-BAN requirements and admissions criteria) and the Penn State Graduate School (verifying educational documentation, credentials, and international visa requirements). You may receive communications from representatives of either department.

Admission is granted in two stages: first by the Smeal M-BAN program and then by the Penn State Graduate School. The Graduate School requires a recommendation from the Smeal admissions office before taking action on your application. To confirm the receipt of your application materials and check the status of your application, it is recommended that you contact the Smeal admissions office at  [email protected] .

Academic Integrity and Plagiarism

The Penn State Smeal College of Business has a strong commitment to ethics and integrity as reflected in our  Honor Code . The admissions committee will not tolerate any form of plagiarism or appearance of impropriety in an applicant’s materials. To ensure academic integrity, all essays will be confirmed through  iThenticate  authenticity software. 

For more information on academic integrity and plagiarism: " Academic Integrity " and  "Academic Integrity, Plagiarism, and Copyright"

Failure to follow these guidelines will result in a deny decision.

Ready to begin your application? Visit our Apply page to take the next step.

Penn State Supplemental Essay 2023-24

Penn state supplemental essays 2023-24.

With test-optional colleges like Penn State on the rise, mastering the Penn State supplemental essay has never been more important. Beyond seeing a strong academic record, the admissions team wants to hear directly from you. That is why including a top tier Penn State essay is so valuable in the admissions process. But, before we jump into the Penn State supplemental essays, let’s learn a little more about the university.

Penn State University , situated in the vibrant state of Pennsylvania , is one of the top public universities in the nation. With a rich history of academic excellence, Penn State draws in a diverse and dynamic community of students. Each year, thousands of aspiring scholars submit their applications yearly, eager to join Penn State’s thriving community. As a result, Penn State enrollment is currently over 80,000 students across its multiple campuses. Wondering how to get into Penn State? Keep reading.

In this guide, we’ll dive into how to get into Penn State University by focusing on the Penn State essays.

Specifically, this guide will:

• Look at the Penn State University essay requirements
• Explore Penn State admissions criteria
• Dissect Penn State essay prompts
• Offer valuable insights for crafting exceptional Penn State essays

After reading this guide, you’ll have the tools you need to craft compelling Penn State essays. So, when you apply , you can be sure your application will leave a lasting impression on the Penn State admissions committee. 

Let’s begin this exciting journey of learning about Penn State supplemental essays!

Penn State Essays: Quick Facts

Penn state essay: quick facts.

• Penn State University Acceptance Rate: The acceptance rate is 55% – U.S. News notes the early acceptance rate is 65.3%.
• Penn State University Academic Profile: Class of 2026
• Common Application
• MyPennState
• Early Action: November 1st
• Recommended Regular Decision: December 1st 
• Please Note: First-year applications may be submitted through July 28th. However, since Penn State operates on a rolling basis, acceptances may become more limited later in the admissions cycle. For this reason, we recommend submitting your application by the Recommended Regular Decision deadline.
• Common Application Personal Statement (Optional): Choose from Common Application 2023-2024 Prompts (650 words)
• Penn State Personal Statement (Optional): Focused on Getting to Know the Applicant (500 words) 
• Students who submit applications after November 1st will not receive an invitation to interview.
• Final Application Deadline: December 4th 
• Supplemental Essay Requirements: 2 800-word maximum essays, 8 200-word short answer responses.

Please note that essay requirements are subject to change each admissions cycle, and portions of this article may have been written before the final publication of the most recent guidelines. For the most up-to-date information on essay requirements, check the university’s admissions website.

Does Penn State have supplemental essays?

Yes, Penn State has one Penn State supplemental essay. This Penn State supplemental essay is also known as the Penn State personal statement. Unlike other universities with required supplemental essays, this essay is optional. That means you only have to write a Penn State supplemental essay if you choose to.

The Penn State supplemental essay asks students to share something about themselves that would enhance their application. You can view this optional essay as an opportunity to share something not reflected elsewhere in your application.

Although optional, the Penn State supplemental essay can add irreplaceable value to your application. The Penn State supplemental essay provides you with the chance to showcase your academic interests, personal highlights, and unique qualities to the Penn State admissions committee. For these reasons, we advise you not to skip the Penn State supplemental essay just because it is not required. 

Penn State Supplemental Essay: Schreyer Honors College

The initial Penn State University application for admission does not have a mandatory Penn State supplemental essay. However, if you plan on applying to Penn State Schreyer Honors College, you will be required to submit several supplemental essays. 

Now that we have answered the question “does Penn State have supplemental essays?”, let’s take a closer look. In the following sections, we’ll explore the Penn State essay prompts for your application to Penn State and the Honors College. (We’ll also share our advice on effectively responding to the various Penn State essays, so look out for helpful tips!)

Penn State Essay Prompt #1 (Optional Essay)

In the writing section of the Common Application, you will be prompted with a Penn State supplemental essay. The prompt for the Penn State personal statement reads as follows:

Penn State Essay Prompt #1

Please tell us something about yourself, your experiences, or activities that you believe would reflect positively on your ability to succeed at penn state. this is your opportunity to tell us something about yourself that is not already reflected in your application or academic records. .

In your Penn State personal statement, you should aim to provide additional insights into your character or experiences. Specifically, you’ll want to connect how those experiences will aid in your success at Penn State.

Just like your Common App personal statement, your Penn State personal statement should share something personal. Consider a unique aspect of your life or experiences that sets you apart from other students. It could be a personal passion, a formative experience, or an activity that has had a significant impact on your development. Aim to share something new in your Penn State personal statement, rather than something already mentioned in your Penn State application.

However, you’ll need to do more than just summarize an experience. The Penn State personal statement asks you to reflect on how this experience has helped shape your character. Consider how this experience impacted your personal growth, resilience, or adaptability. Explain how it aligns with Penn State’s values and your intended field of study.

Should I respond to the optional Penn State essay?

The Penn State personal statement is optional. So, you may be asking yourself whether or not you should choose to respond to the Penn State essay. Well, the short answer is – yes, you should respond to the optional Penn State essay, and this is why. 

While the Penn State essay isn’t required, it offers a valuable chance to enhance your college application. By responding to the Penn State supplemental essay, you can present a more compelling portrait of yourself to admissions officials. The Penn State supplemental essay allows you the chance to convey your enthusiasm and what is important to you. And, you can clearly demonstrate your alignment with Penn State University’s values and academic or extracurricular opportunities.

If these reasons don’t convince you to write your optional Penn State essay, maybe this will. Each year, Penn State University admissions release their application review process. This review highlights how the university evaluates applicants for acceptance. Currently, they highlight students’ academic performance, geographic and cultural background, and various roles as a student, sibling, volunteer, etc. Penn State uses these factors to determine how an applicant might contribute to a diverse student body. So, these are key topics you might want to touch on in your Penn State essays.

Considering the review process mentioned above, the Penn State essay allows you to go beyond academic excellence. The Penn State supplemental essay offers you the chance to highlight your various passions and roles, even non-academic ones. Take this opportunity to showcase how you’ll contribute to Penn State University’s mission of having a diverse student body!

Applying to Schreyer Honors College

Attending Penn State University is an incredible opportunity for students. However, you may choose to further your academic opportunities by applying to Penn State Schreyer Honors College . Students applying to Penn State Schreyer should embody their values of academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement. 

The Penn State Enrollment in 2022 was 88,116 . While Penn State enrollment is high amongst general education collegiate students, Penn State enrollment at Penn State Schreyer is only about 1,200 students. So, it shouldn’t be surprising that the honors college program is incredibly competitive.

When applying be sure to follow these steps: 

Schreyer Honors College application steps:

• Begin the application process early, ensuring you meet Penn State’s general admission requirements. 
• Choose a major aligned with your interests and career goals. 
• Use your Penn State supplemental essays to showcase your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and volunteer work, emphasizing leadership roles and community service. Be yourself in your Penn State essays and application, as authenticity matters. 
• Always meet deadlines and be prepared in the event you are selected for an interview. 

How many essays are required for my Schreyer Honors College application?

In comparison to writing just one Penn State supplemental essay, Penn State Schreyer distinguishes itself with multiple required application essays. To gain acceptance to Penn State Schreyer Honors College, applicants are tasked with two types of essays. Students must complete two 800-word maximum Penn State essays and respond to eight 200-word short answer questions.

The combination of longer Penn State essays with shorter responses fosters a holistic evaluation of applicants. These prompts allow the Penn State admissions committee to assess many qualities of your character. Everything from academic accomplishments, character, and potential contributions to the university community.

In the next section, we’ll briefly break down each of the prompts for the Penn State Honors College supplemental essays.

Penn State Honors College Supplemental Essays

As previously stated, Penn State Schreyer Honors College has multiple Penn State essays. These Penn State Honors College supplemental essays are diverse and allow prospective students to present a comprehensive picture of themselves. For success, you must know the differences between the various Schreyer Honors College prompts and how to respond best. 

This section will dive deep into each of the Penn State essay prompts for Penn State Schreyer. Let’s get started. 

The first two Penn State Honors College supplemental essays are 800-words maximum. They ask two questions using two distinct Penn State essay prompts.

Penn State Schreyer Honors College Supplemental Essays: Prompt One

Schreyer honors college supplemental essay prompt #1, describe a problem you’ve solved or a problem you’d like to solve. it can be an intellectual challenge, a research query, an ethical dilemma – anything that is of personal importance, no matter the scale. explain its significance to you and what steps you took or could take to identify a solution..

To respond to this Penn State essay prompt effectively, select a problem that resonates with you. It might be an academic challenge, a societal issue, or a moral dilemma. In your response, you’ll want to:

• Describe the problem clearly
• Emphasize its significance
• Highlight your emotional connection
• Explain how it aligns with your values or interests.

Next, delve into the steps you have already taken or envision taking to address this issue. Discuss:

• Your thought process
• Research you conducted
• People you consulted
• Any actions you’ve initiated

Reflect on what you’ve learned from this problem-solving experience and how it has influenced your growth or aspirations.

Penn State Schreyer Honors College Supplemental Essays: Prompt Two

Schreyer honors college supplemental essay prompt #2, isaac asimov wrote: “any book worth banning is a book worth reading.” do you agree is such censorship ever justified if not, explain why. if so, who or what should determine which books are read and which books are forbidden..

When tackling this Penn State essay prompt, start by expressing your stance on Asimov’s statement, either agreeing or disagreeing. Be sure to provide thoughtful arguments to support your viewpoint.

If you agree with Asimov, discuss the value of engaging with challenging or controversial literature. What benefits can it bring to society? What moral, legal, or ethical issues does censorship raise? If you disagree, explain the circumstances under which censorship might be justified, such as protecting public safety or vulnerable populations. Be sure to consider who should have the authority to make decisions regarding banned books. 

Ultimately, your response should convey a deep understanding of censorship’s complexities and a clear stance on the matter. Whether you agree or disagree, be sure to back up your answer with specific details and reasonable justification.

Penn State Schreyer Honors College Supplemental Essays: Short Answer Prompts

In addition to the longer Penn State essays, Penn State Schreyer requires applicants to respond to 8 short-response questions. These questions have a 200-word limit and are designed to provide quick glimpses into your interests. The eight Penn State essay prompts are as follows: 

Schreyer Honors College Supplemental Essays Short Answer Prompts

1. what do you hope to get at penn state as a schreyer scholar to help you accomplish your future goals and aspirations, 2. if you were able to go anywhere in the world, outside of the country you currently reside, where would you go and why, 3. tell us about your leadership experiences (community roles, family contributions, research, clubs, organizations, etc.) and why leadership is important to you. describe the challenges and/or successes you’ve faced in these roles., 4. list awards or other recognitions you have received in or outside of school over the last 4 years. which award or recognition means the most to you and why, 5. tell us about a book or other media that has made you think about something in a new way., 6. consider a time when you had to collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds or with different perspectives. how did this experience contribute to your personal growth and understanding of others, 7. everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups, including: shared geography, faith, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, or intellectual heritage. choose one of the communities or groups to which you belong and describe how it has influenced your life over the last four years., 8. please use this space to share information you would like us to consider that has not been discussed elsewhere in your schreyer honors college application. this could include obstacles you’ve overcome, something you’re proud of that is not discussed elsewhere, or anything else you choose..

These short answer prompts are specific, so be sure to respond to the questions accordingly. With a smaller word limit, you’ll need to stay focused on a clear topic and relevant connected ideas. Rather than worrying about how you think a Schreyer Scholar might answer, be honest in your Penn State essays. Picking topics you’re passionate about is a surefire way to capture your authentic self, even in these shorter essays.

Up next, we’ll discuss how to respond to all Penn State essay prompts in order to enhance your overall application.

How to write Penn State supplemental essays

When writing Penn State essays, it’s crucial to ensure they enhance and strengthen your Penn State application. Below are our suggestions to help make your Penn State supplemental essays stand out:

1. Embrace authenticity and personal voice in each Penn State Essay

Infuse your Penn State supplemental essays with your genuine self. Share personal anecdotes and experiences that have shaped your values, passions, and aspirations. Avoid generic responses and instead focus on the distinctive aspects of your life journey.

2. Demonstrate knowledge and alignment with Penn State Universit y

Research Penn State University thoroughly. Understand the university’s values, mission, academic programs, campus culture, and initiatives. Integrate this knowledge into your Penn State essays to demonstrate your sincere interest and alignment with Penn State.

3. Prioritize proofreading and refinement in your Penn State Essays

Pay meticulous attention to proofreading and editing your Penn State essays. Ensure impeccable grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. Verify the clarity and coherence of your ideas. Given the limited word count, every word must be chosen wisely and redundancy should be eliminated.

Try incorporating these strategies into each Penn State supplemental essay. For each prompt, showcase your unique qualities and underscore the valuable contributions you can bring to the Penn State community. Remember, Penn State supplemental essays are your opportunity to shine. And, moreover, convince the admissions committee that you are an excellent fit for Penn State University.

Does Penn State care about essays?

Historically, admissions officials at Penn State University have placed significant weight on a student’s academic performance. But, times are shifting, and each Penn State supplemental essay is becoming more important than ever. 

Currently, Penn State University has a test-optional policy for those applying for Fall 2024 admission. This shift shows that Penn State recognizes the limitations of standardized test scores. While still valuable, they can’t always accurately or completely assess a student’s potential, capabilities, and alignment with their academic community. As a test-optional school, Penn State places increased emphasis on other components of the Penn State application process. This primarily includes Penn State supplemental essays.

Each Penn State supplemental essay gives you unique opportunities to illuminate your distinct perspectives, life experiences, and personal attributes. The university gains a more comprehensive and holistic understanding of you through your Penn State supplemental essays. Ultimately, these Penn State essays offer a deeper insight into applicants’ character, intellectual curiosity, and alignment with Penn State’s core values. 

More Essay Resources from CollegeAdvisor

CollegeAdvisor offers a range of valuable resources to help guide you through the post-secondary admissions process. Our goal is always to help students maximize their admissions odds, especially by crafting compelling college essays. So, here are a few of our favorite essay resources:

• College Essay Topics Guide : This is a comprehensive guide to help you choose compelling and relevant essay topics for your college applications. This resource provides valuable insights into crafting essays that highlight your personal experiences, interests, and aspirations.
• How to Write Better Essays : Our guide on writing better essays equips students with valuable tips, strategies, and techniques to enhance their essay-writing skills. You can apply any of these tips to your Penn State supplemental essays.
• Common App Essay Examples : The Common App essay is crucial to many college applications, including Penn State. CollegeAdvisor offers a collection of real Common App essay examples to inspire and guide students in creating compelling narratives.

Penn State Supplemental Essays – Takeaways

Navigating the college application process can be exciting and challenging. Knowing what to say and how to say it is an increasingly valuable skill. Here are seven takeaways to keep in mind when considering the Penn State supplemental essays:

7 Key Takeaways for Penn State Supplemental Essays

• Penn State University highly values its Penn State supplemental essays in its admissions process. They provide a holistic view of applicants that would otherwise be less dimensional.
• Penn State’s application offers one optional Penn State supplemental essay, in addition to the Common Application personal statement. The optional Penn State supplemental essay is called the Penn State personal statement.
• The Penn State personal statement asks applicants to share a life experience or activity that will contribute to their success at Penn State.
• Responding to these optional Penn State essays can help applicants showcase their uniqueness, enthusiasm, and alignment with Penn State’s values.
• The Penn State Schreyer Honors College application also has Penn State supplemental essays. These Penn State supplemental essays are mandatory for honors college applicants.
• Penn State Schreyer Honors College application essays include two 800-word maximum essays and eight 200-word short answer responses. These Penn State essays allow applicants to present a comprehensive picture of themselves.
• To excel at these Penn State supplemental essays, craft your responses authentically, align them with Penn State’s values, and demonstrate knowledge about the university. Also, proofread and refine your Penn State essays to ensure clarity and engagement!

Understanding the role of Penn State University supplemental essays and adhering to these tips can undoubtedly enhance your application. Still have questions about how to get into Penn State? Speak with one of our admissions experts today!

This article was written by senior advisor, Ashley Hollins . Are you looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. Our team will discuss your profile during your meeting 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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Pennsylvania State University--World Campus

210 Business Building, University Park, PA 16802

#22  in  Best Online MBA Programs (tie)

Overall Score 86 /100

MBA Program Overview

The application deadline for the online MBA programs at Pennsylvania State University--World Campus, a public school, is rolling. Ninety-seven percent of students are already employed when they first enroll. For these programs, all of the online classes are recorded and archived. Students should also note that the online MBA programs at Pennsylvania State University--World Campus are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the gold standard of business school accreditation.

About the Online MBA Degree Program

Content in this section is provided by the school.

Penn State’s Online MBA is AACSB accredited and designed for working professionals seeking career advancement or change. The program offers customization and flexibility, and students can choose from a selection of over 25 concentrations. We combine asynchronous and synchronous learning for a holistic educational experience. Features of our program include the initial virtual residency experience, our optional Global Immersion, and the ability to simultaneously pursue select graduate certificates and concurrent degrees. Led by The Smeal College of Business, the OMBA leverages the expertise of faculty who are subject matter experts from across the commonwealth. The OMBA teaching model exemplifies an expert partnership that utilizes perspectives from academia, the modern professional landscape, as well as the lens of the instructional designer.

2024 MBA Program Quick Stats

Pennsylvania state university--world campus rankings.

• # 22 in  Best Online MBA Programs  (tie)
• # 20 in  Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans  (tie)
• # 11 in  Best Online General Management MBA Programs  (tie)
• # 13 in  Best Online Finance MBA Programs  (tie)

Best Online Programs Ranking Indicators

See how this program stacks up against 344 others, based on factors used in the U.S. News methodology.

Faculty Credentials and Training rank

Faculty Credentials and Training score

Services and Technologies rank

Services and Technologies score

Engagement rank

Engagement score

Student Excellence rank

Student Excellence score

Expert Opinion score (out of 5)

Other rankings at this school: Grad Schools , Global

MBA Program Data

Applying to pennsylvania state university--world campus, application (fall 2024).

Application deadline (U.S. residents)

Application deadline (international students)

Notification of admissions

Data appear as submitted by school

Same admissions standards are used for all online programs

Sometimes denies admittance to qualified applicants

Admits applicants living abroad

Admissions & Enrollment

New entrants

Acceptance rate

Average undergraduate GPA

Entrants providing undergraduate GPA

Average GMAT score

Entrants providing GMAT scores

Average GRE score breakdown

• 154 quantitative
• 3.8 analytical writing

Entrants providing GRE scores

Students with prior work experience

Average months work experience of new entrants

Requirements

Application essay required

Standardized test policy

GMAT and GRE not used in admissions

Letters of recommendation

Letters of recommendation from professional contacts

Business-related work experience requirement

Yes, with exceptions

Business-related undergraduate degree requirement

Business-related undergraduate course work requirement

TOEFL required for international students

Minimum TOEFL score required

Paper 60, Internet 80

Academic factors

Undergraduate institution

Not Considered

Undergraduate GPA

Undergraduate field of study

Recommendation(s)

Standardized test scores

Non-academic factors

Application essay

Work experience

Very Important

Character/personal qualities

First-generation college student

Alumni/alumnae relations

Geographical residence

Applicant's interest level

Admissions Contacts

Director of admissions

Stacey Dorang Peeler

Admissions phone

Admissions email

Program website

Admissions website

Pennsylvania State University--World Campus Academics

Distinguishing characteristics.

Graduate program(s)

• Master of Business Administration

School type

AACSB accredited

ACBSP accredited

IACBE accredited

Program Offerings

Online master's in business degree programs

Concentrations with highest demand

• Entrepreneurship
• General Management

Concentrations offered

• Health Care Administration
• Human Resources Management
• Public Administration
• Real Estate
• Supply Chain Management/Logistics

Course Offerings

International business courses paired with residencies outside U.S.

Instructional faculty who teach courses accessible online

25 full-time; 1 part-time

96% full-time; 100% part-time

Tenured or tenure-track faculty

Program fully finances faculty training

Required hours of initial training

Formal peer review of instructors

Continuing training required

Faculty gender distribution

Faculty ethnic diversity

Minority Faculty

Hispanic/Latino

Nonresident aliens

Average class size

Maximum class size

Class sizes

2-9 students

10-19 students

20-29 students

30-39 students

40-49 students

50-99 students

100+ students

Integration With Campus

Can earn degree entirely abroad

Classes include campus-based students

Collaboration among online and campus-based students

No face-to-face students

Students enroll as online students

Online and on-campus students are in separate courses

Credits earned online equal earned on campus

Faculty who teach online also teach on campus

Same curricula for online and campus students

Dedicated business school career center

Access to same career services as on-campus business students

Possible in-person attendance requirements

Orientations

Group projects/simulations

New student retention rate (2021-2022)

New student retention rate (2020-2021)

New student retention rate (2019-2020)

New student retention rate (2018-2019)

Total program graduates (2022-2023)

Credits needed to graduate

Required time to earn degree

Three-year graduation rate (2022-2023)

Student Body at Pennsylvania State University--World Campus

Composition.

Employed when first enrolling

Minority students

Enrolled students who are veterans or active service members

International students

Average age of new entrants

Student gender distribution

Black or African American

Two or more races

Race and/or ethnicity unknown

American Indian or Alaska Native

Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander

Technology & Support at Pennsylvania State University--World Campus

Usable for classes.

Recommended internet speed

Courses designed by an outside firm

Learning management system used

Delivery modes

Live streaming video

Live streaming audio

Recorded video

Recorded audio

Software-based readers

Application for display on tablet computer

Description of tablet application

We utilize native apps and employ a responsive design that is intuitive and accessible while taking advantage of the unique affordances of tablets.

Application for display on smartphone

Description of application for smartphone

We utilize native apps and employ a responsive design that is intuitive and accessible while focusing on the mobility of smartphones.

Bulletin boards

Simulations

Online labs

Adaptive learning

Learning analytics platform

Types of Learning Management Systems Used

Academic advising

Career placement assistance

Financial aid office/services

Access to live librarian

Local area network

Technical support

Live tutoring

Writing workshops

Admissions counseling

Course registration

Resume help services

Degree audit

Transcript services

Same program length of all online programs

Instructor response expected within (hours)

24-7 live tech support

ADA compliance

Central office reviews each course

Weekly office hours (available remotely)

End-of-course evaluations

Course evaluation response rate

Tech support availability

Weekend days (7:00 a.m. - 5:59 p.m.)

Weekend nights (6:00 p.m. - 9:59 p.m.)

Weekend overnights (10:00 p.m. - 6:59 a.m.)

Weekdays (7:00 a.m. - 5:59 p.m.)

Weeknights (6:00 p.m. - 9:59 p.m.)

Weekday overnights (10:00 p.m. - 6:59 a.m.)

Career Center

School tracks alumni

Alumni on which school collected usable information

Archived classes

Classes can be received live

Live online/on-campus classes after 5 p.m.

Percentage of classes with lectures

Student-student engagement

Online chatrooms

Web conferencing (webinars)

Zoom or other visual software

New-student orientation

Review and sign ethics statement

Number of times a week students must log in to a typical course

Courses requiring students to work collaboratively with other students

Class participation graded

Number of settings in which in-person exams are administered

No proctored exams

Anti-plagiarism screening required for essay assignments

Standardized copyright policy for course materials

Measures to instill academic integrity

The Penn State Online MBA is committed to instilling a culture of honor and integrity in the program that also reflects the values of both the Smeal College of Business and the greater university community. During residency week, students receive instruction on this topic. OMBA students are invited to sign the Smeal Honor Code. A continued focus on academic and professional ethics is integrated throughout the program, with a core course specifically focused on Ethical and Responsible Business Leadership.

Tuition & Financial Aid at Pennsylvania State University--World Campus

Financial aid contact information.

Financial aid director

Colleen Coudriet

Financial aid phone

Part-time tuition (per credit, in-state)

Part-time tuition (per credit, out-of-state)

Full-time tuition (per credit, in-state)

Full-time tuition (per credit, out-of-state)

Total program cost (full-time, in-state)

Total program cost (part-time, in-state)

Total program cost (full-time, out-of-state)

Total program cost (part-time, out-of-state)

Veterans pay in-state tuition

Same tuition for all online programs

Sponsorships

Employer sponsored new students

Financial Aid Availability

College-funded aid (fellowships, assistantships, grants or scholarships) available

International students eligible for college-funded aid

GI Bill certified

Entering class that used GI Benefits

Yellow Ribbon Program member

Yellow Ribbon Funding

Not Applicable

Proportion of 2022-2023 graduates with debt

Postgraduate outcomes

Students are engaged in learning that they can immediately apply. Students receive Career Services support from the World Campus and the Smeal College of Business. Resources are offered to those at all points in their careers.

Employment Status by Professional Function (Part-time, Online)

No data is available for this institution

Base Salary By Professional Function (Part-time, Online)

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Are you seeking one-on-one college counseling and/or essay support? Limited spots are now available. Click here to learn more.

2023-24 Penn State Supplemental Essay – Prompt and Tips

September 6, 2023

With an acceptance rate still above 50%, it would be easy to misjudge how challenging the Penn State admissions landscape truly is. In fact, those entering the famed University Park campus sport mid-50 SATs of 1270-1450. They also boast an unweighted GPA range of 3.59-3.93 . Additionally, successful applicants in 2023-24 should prepare to write a strong Penn State supplemental essay.

(Want to learn more about How to Get Into Penn State? Visit our blog entitled:  How to Get Into Penn State University: Admissions Data and Strategies  for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

In a competitive admissions environment, every piece of the Penn State application takes on a high level of importance. Therefore, it is vital that all Nittany Lion applicants dedicate a significant amount of time to this optional essay. Below is the lone PSU supplemental prompt for the 2023-24 admissions cycle along with our advice for composing a winning essay.

Penn State Supplemental Essay Prompt #1 (Optional)

Please tell us something about yourself, your experiences, or activities that you believe would reflect positively on your ability to succeed at penn state. this is your opportunity to tell us something about yourself that is not already reflected in your application or academic records. we suggest a limit of 500 words or fewer..

This essay is technically “optional” but all serious applicants should view it as mandatory. Unlike many “optional” essays that may or may not apply to you (e.g. COVID impact, gap in education, gender identity etc.), just about every applicant has at least one extracurricular or experience worth elaborating on.

The activity/experience angle

With this prompt, Penn State is not necessarily asking you to write about the activity where you earned the most prestigious awards. Nor are they looking for the one where you held the highest position of leadership. The university is going to see all of your activities in that section of the Common App. As such, you want to ask yourself which of your entries is crying out for more explanation and detail. Which one is closest to your heart and most representative of your unique passions? Pick the option that will allow you to deliver additional detail that may be memorable to the admissions reader. For example, you may be a volunteer EMT and have compelling, drama-filled experiences to share.

Alternatively, you may have worked in local restaurant and learned more about the lives of your undocumented coworkers. Start this process by asking, “What is the most interesting and consequential moment I have experienced in my extracurricular activities?”

If you can identify one clear-cut moment, that is likely the activity worth sharing with the Penn State admissions staff.

The more broad “about you” angle

Of course, this prompt has a wider scope than just an activity. You can also take this opportunity to share something personal. After completing your Common App, is there anything that you have yet to share that is absolutely elemental to who you are as a person/student? Without the benefit of an in-person interview, it may feel like you never fully had a chance to connect intimately with a PSU admissions officer. Perhaps you have not communicated the full you, your true essence, your je ne sais quoi. If you feel something important about yourself has yet to be communicated elsewhere in the application, then this essay is about to become your best friend.

Consider that the admissions reader is already familiar with your academic history, activities, and awards. What don’t they know, or, what could they understand on a deeper level. This could be a particular skill or talent or something about your character or personality. On the other hand, you may wish to speak more about your passions, hobbies, ideas, or beliefs. Any of those options are perfectly fine!

This one is intentionally open-ended so use this space to share your most cherished accomplishments or most winning attributes. The university itself is, in essence, inviting you to make a “closing argument” at the end of this admissions trial.

How important is the Penn State supplemental essay?

The essays (the Common App essay and supplemental essay) are not among the most important factors to the admissions committee. GPA and the rigor of one’s courses are at the top of the list. However, the essays can help borderline applicants push themselves over the edge toward an acceptance.

Want Personalized Essay Assistance?

Lastly, if you are interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your Penn State supplemental essay, we encourage you to  get a quote  today.

• College Essay

Andrew Belasco

A licensed counselor and published researcher, Andrew's experience in the field of college admissions and transition spans two decades. He has previously served as a high school counselor, consultant and author for Kaplan Test Prep, and advisor to U.S. Congress, reporting on issues related to college admissions and financial aid.

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Pennsylvania State University (Smeal) MBA Admission Details and Applications Essays 2022-23

Here is a snapshot of the vital information for the applicants

ESSAY QUESTIONS

• What are your short-term and long-term career goals? How does your past experience enable you to achieve these goals? How do you see your MBA experience fitting into this plan? (600 Word Limit)

– APPLICATION DEADLINES –

Program statistics.

Current Class Size

Female Students

Male Students

International Students

Average Work Experience

Average GMAT

Average GPA

Total Tuition Fee

Application Fee

TOEFL Requirement

Data not available

School Based Loan

Need based as well as profile based

Scholarships/GA Opportunities

Admissions office.

• Email : [email protected]
• Phone : 814 863 0474
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Pennsylvania State Smeal Essays Writing and Editing Support

The MBA application process can be quite challenging at first. Finding a benchmark and evaluating oneself is hard. When I began my application process, within the set of limitation that I was working under, I wasn’t very confident about my chances. Shailesh and Mayank evaluated my profile thoroughly and were very patient in understanding my constraints and requirements. They helped me structure my thoughts and motivated to apply to the better B-Schools. At every stage, they went above and beyond what was required. I never realised when they ceased to be ‘admission consultants’ and became ‘mentors’. Their mentorship helped me, not just with my applications to universities abroad, but also through the application process to Indian schools.”

Shubham Gupta Boston University ($60K scholarship), The College of William and Mary (50K scholarship), 9 IIM’s, MDI Gurgaon, XIMB

MISSION STATEMENT

The Penn State Smeal MBA Program develops great leaders who are knowledgeable in their field, act with integrity, have an ethic of teamwork, and are enthusiastic members of the Penn State community. We create a diverse learning community and leverage the resources of Penn State to provide a highly personalized learning experience.

Core Strengths of the School

Penn State’s Smeal MBA program aims to equip students with functional expertise and in-depth business knowledge so that they can embark on their journey to become principled business leaders of an increasingly globalized business world. The first year of the curriculum focuses on exposing students to the fundamental business skills and the different functional areas of business in any organization like Finance, Marketing, etc. Honesty, Integrity and Accountability are the core fundamentals of the Smeal MBA program. Smeal MBA program expects the highest ethical standards of academic integrity and accountability from its students in order to develop principled business leaders for the future. The year-long leadership communications training program provides an unparalleled experience of indulging in workshops and activities that would enhance the leadership acumen and communication skills of the students. Students have acquired hands-on leadership experience through Leadership Immersion program, where they visited the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) Fire Academy and Quantico, Virginia- home of the U.S. Marine Corps Officer Candidate School and gained different perspectives on leadership and teamwork. The 360-degree assessment of leadership behaviors from peers further help students in enhancing their leadership skills.

Uniqueness in MBA Pedagogy

The Applied Professional Experience APEX is an opportunity for students to collaborate and work in teams over cross-functional business projects for their clients. This is a platform for students to gain knowledge about the business practices followed in the organization. Students work in teams with peers from diverse professional backgrounds and this helps them gain insights into different functional areas of business. Liaising with client teams and interacting with the top executives of the company exposes the students to the real-world business challenges and the strategies to counter them.

As a part of the Global Immersion program, the first year students have travelled to destinations such as Peru, Chile, China, India, South Africa and Turkey and enhanced their understanding on the economy, commerce and culture of the country. Students get the chance to visit company headquarters and tour manufacturing units of the leading organizations of the visiting country and delve into their ways of conducting business. They interact with top-notch executives of these firms and the government officials who provide insights into the ways of conducting business on an international platform. The Global Perspectives and Global Business Environment Courses aim at training the students to anticipate and understand the macroeconomic changes happening in the business environment and how these changes impact the operating business environment. The Center for Global Business Studies brings together high-profile executives, researchers, faculty, students and the business community on a common platform, where they can discuss about business theories, strategies and recent business practices. The Center aims to delve into the multifunctional business issues that are posing hurdles for the smooth operation of business in the global environment. Businesses, universities and academic institutions join hands to educate students and executives on current business theories, strategies and practices.

The Farrell Center for Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship aims at creating and designing educational programs in entrepreneurship and innovation, driving academic research in entrepreneurship and innovation, and ensuring that these get translated into actionable best practices.

CONCENTRATIONS OFFERED

• Supply Chain Management / Logistics
• Healthcare Administration
• General Management
• Production / Operations Management
• Entrepreneurship

LOCATION ADVANTAGES

The Penn State Smeal MBA program is held at the Business Building of the University Park Campus in State College, Pennsylvania. Its proximity to the business hubs such as Baltimore, New York, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Washington D.C. proves to be beneficial for the students, who get several internship and consulting opportunities. The Center for Performing Arts and the Bryce Jordan Center regularly host a variety of international shows throughout the year. The State College Community Theatre group regularly entertains the audience at the The State Theatre in State College. The New Year’s Eve is celebrated as First Night State College in downtown State College.

CAREER SUPPORT

The MBA Career Services team is committed to shape the career of the students and equip them with the requisite skills and resources to land into the perfect post-MBA job. The expert team is backed up by a unique and proven Personal Career Strategy Framework that has led to full-time and internship opportunities for students in top companies. The Framework provides a powerful tool for the students to map their goals and effectively chart out a plan to reach their objectives. The framework provides a step-by-step guidance for self-exploration, market research, focus, planning, implementation and career management. The career coaches mentor students to analyze their potentials and explore the industries and companies that would best align with their long term career plans. Students are trained on effective job search techniques, managing interviews , networking techniques, offer negotiations, etc., so that they are able to leverage internship and consulting opportunities and convert them into full-time job offers.

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The excerpt of my B-School journey and story, and the important role played by Expert’s Global:- When I was sitting on the couch of Expert’s Global office, more than a year ago, reading various successful stories mentored by Experts, I dreamed of sharing my own story someday and imagined how it would be for me. Now that I get the chance to share it, I am quite thrilled. The journey was long, tiresome and full of struggles, yet the learning was subliminal. Expert’s Global were the only people I approached after reading various reviews online. I took the complete package and started with the GMAT preparation, then came the applications, interviews and finally the decision of which school to go to and they guided me through each of these steps. During the GMAT preparation part, I received complete study material, plenty of practice questions and a proper schedule. There are also a good number of mock tests that really give the feel of CAT test such as GMAT so when THE DAY arrives you will feel like you know everything about it. I was preparing with full zeal but then I got promoted, which showed a lot on my preparation. My scores stopped increasing and I decided to take the test. My GMAT score was not exceptional (a lousy 680) so I knew I needed strong essays and a nicely built profile (time to thank the promotion) and Shailesh Sir proved to be a gem on this front-I remember emailing him at 2;30 in the morning on the day of my first application and received immediate response and support. Such efforts go far beyond and ultimately it shows on your results. Experts advised me to apply to 11 schools, which I did, however I could not complete 2 applications so I ended up applying to 9 schools. Out of these I received interview calls from 6 schools namely Foster, ND Mendoza, Mason, GWU, Katz and BYU. I got admits from 3 of these schools, 2 with good scholarships: Foster did not offer any scholarship. My final call was between GWU and BYU. GWU offered me $60K scholarship so tuition for me was less than BYU. Though BYU does not offer scholarships that easily (I have asked a few other admits) but again Shailesh Sir insisted that I ask for a scholarship, so I did. And I got a scholarship. It was great! That made my decision easier, I guess. BYU was a clear win (though in the start, I was so confused). In my opinion the best thing about Experts is that they prepare you to do, instead of doing it themselves-it kind of warms you up for the longer run 😉 In all, I think it was a tremendous experience and without the support I received, it would have been much difficult and far less fertile! I heartily thank the entire experts team for their guidance and support. Thumbs up!

Roli Shukla BYU

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