Lehigh Supplemental Essays
If you’re wondering how to get into Lehigh University, this guide to the Lehigh supplemental essays is for you. To craft a strong and compelling application, you’ll need to dedicate time to writing the Lehigh University supplemental essays. As required components of your application, Lehigh supplemental essays form a critical part of the Lehigh admissions process.
Lehigh University, located in Pennsylvania, is renowned as one of the top private universities in the nation. Boasting a rich history of academic excellence, Lehigh University attracts a dynamic community of students. So, you’ll want to use the Lehigh supplemental essays to your advantage.
This guide will explore each of the Lehigh supplemental essays in detail. Specifically, we’ll look at each of the prompts and give you strategies to help make your Lehigh supplemental essays shine.
This Lehigh essay guide will:
- Delve into Lehigh requirements for their essays
- Review the Lehigh admissions criteria
- Analyze the Lehigh essay prompts
- Provide valuable insights to help you craft exceptional Lehigh essays
By the end of this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to complete your Lehigh application, impressing admissions with strong Lehigh essays. Are you ready to learn how the Lehigh supplemental essays will impact your how to get into Lehigh strategy? If so, let’s go!
Lehigh Admissions: Quick Facts
Lehigh University Quick Facts
- Lehigh Acceptance Rate: 26%
- Lehigh Supplemental Essay Requirements:
- 2 (~ 200 word) short answer essays
- Lehigh Application: Lehigh University is part of the Common Application and Coalition Application. The prompts you’ll choose from for your personal statement will depend on which platform you use to submit your application.
- Lehigh Application Deadlines:
- Early Decision I: November 1
- Early Decision II: January 1
- Regular Decision: January 1
- Lehigh Essay Tip: Even if you are planning to apply Regular Decision, don’t wait until the last minute to write your essays. Lehigh Admissions wants to read a polished, final draft, which means you’ll need plenty of time to brainstorm and revise!
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 Lehigh have supplemental essays?
In addition to your personal statement, Lehigh requirements include writing Lehigh supplemental essays. These Lehigh essays allow applicants to highlight their unique qualities. Moreover, by showcasing applicants’ personal and academic attributes, Lehigh essays help the school get a clearer sense of who they are.
In the following sections, we will discuss how to approach these essays and break down the school-specific Lehigh essay prompts. That way, you’ll feel confident and prepared when it comes time to tackle the Lehigh supplemental essays.
How many essays does Lehigh require?
Currently, all students are required to respond to two Lehigh supplemental essays. You will also need to complete the personal statement via the Common App or Coalition App.
Lehigh University supplemental essays give students the chance to stand out. Moreover, each of the Lehigh essays allows students to share something new about themselves. So, you should make the most of the Lehigh essays as you prepare for the admissions process.
Even with 200-word limits, Lehigh’s supplemental essays can be just as influential as your personal statement. Read each prompt carefully and give yourself enough time to craft thoughtful, polished responses. They don’t take up much space, but they still need time, focus, and care.
Let’s start by taking a closer look at the Lehigh supplemental essays, starting with the Common App personal statement.
Common App Essay
In addition to your Lehigh supplemental essays, most students will need to submit a Common App personal statement. Alternatively, students may also apply to Lehigh University using the Coalition Application. Those prompts will be similar in nature, but vary slightly. The application portal that you use is up to you. We’re going to get into the Common App prompts in this section since it is most widely used. However, you can read more about the Coalition Application in this article.
Let’s take a look at the current prompts:
Common App Essay Prompts
- Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
- The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
- Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
- Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
- Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
- Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
- Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.
All of these prompts allow you the opportunity to share more about yourself. The goal of the Lehigh supplemental essays is for you to share your unique story. Therefore, the prompt you choose for your personal statement should add new information to your application, making you a more competitive candidate.
Keep in mind that this essay will be sent to all of the schools you apply to via the Common App, meaning this essay is important not only for your Lehigh University application, but all of your applications.
How to choose the right prompt for you
When determining which of the Common App Lehigh essay prompts resonates with you, consider which aligns most with your character and values. Select the prompt that allows you to share a meaningful and genuine story that highlights your uniqueness. No matter the prompt you choose, you’ll want to make sure that you are able to passionately write about it.
If none of the prompts immediately jump out to you, consider the following steps to help you choose the best prompt:
Brainstorm for multiple prompts. If you have three prompts you’re choosing among, then you’ll brainstorm for all three. If you have no clue which prompt to choose, you’ll brainstorm for all of them. Get the idea? You can brainstorm by having a ten minute free-write. Simply set a timer and respond to the prompt. Don’t overthink; this is meant to be an exercise for you to freely flow through your thoughts on the topic.
Go with your gut. After brainstorming, you probably found that certain prompts were easier for you to write about than others. Among your top choice, you should select the prompt that you felt most passionately about as you wrote. Which held the most significance and why? Consider what qualities you want to share with admissions but haven’t been able to do so yet. Does this prompt allow you to share new, positive qualities about yourself?
Make it personal, specific, and unique. No generic Common App or Lehigh supplemental essays will impress any admissions officer. Therefore, you’ll need to share specific experiences, anecdotes, reflections and values in your essays. The prompt that allows you to share your unique self, including experiences, perspectives, skills, values, or goals unique to you, is a good prompt!
Hopefully, this section has helped you decide among the Common App essay prompts for your first essay. In the next section, we will break down the school-specific Lehigh supplemental essays. Later, we’ll provide some tips to help you tackle them.
Lehigh Supplemental Essays: Prompt #1
This essay is your chance to showcase your genuine interest in Lehigh University. After all, the admissions team wants to know why Lehigh is the right place for you. Despite its strict 200-word limit, this essay plays a key role in the review process.
How did you first learn about Lehigh University and what motivated you to apply? (200 words)
The first of the Lehigh supplemental essays is a classic “Why School” prompt. To answer this essay prompt, think about how you first discovered Lehigh University. Was it during a campus visit or an engaging conversation with a current student or alum? Or, perhaps it was through your own research and exploration? Identifying this initial point of contact sets the stage for your essay.
Then, delve into the heart of the matter. What motivated you to apply to Lehigh University? What aspects of the university resonate with your academic and personal aspirations? Be specific! Mention particular academic programs, research opportunities, the university’s values, student life, or unique offerings that have captured your attention. Overall, the more details you can provide, the better your essay will be.
Remember, the challenge here is the word limit. Since you don’t have much space, every word you use must contribute to your narrative. So, avoid vague statements and generalities. Instead, use descriptive language and vivid storytelling to convey your enthusiasm and connection to Lehigh.
Overall, try to craft a concise, specific, and passionate response that highlights what drew you to Lehigh and shows your reader exactly why they should admit you. By providing a compelling case to the admissions team, you’ll strengthen your overall application.
Lehigh Supplemental Essays: Prompt #2
Whereas the first prompt was all about Lehigh, this prompt is all about you. The great thing about having two Lehigh supplemental essays to write is that you get to express what you love about Lehigh and something you love about your own life.
Here’s the prompt:
At Lehigh, we believe in pausing to celebrate the good—meaningful moments that bring joy, pride or motivation.
What’s something great happening in your life right now?
It could be an accomplishment, a personal win (big or small) or something you’re genuinely excited about. If it matters to you, we’d love to hear about it.
You could write so many different Lehigh supplemental essays in response to this prompt that you might not know where to begin. The key is choosing a topic that genuinely brings you joy. If you don’t feel naturally excited or energized when you talk about it, keep looking.
Even during challenging times, there’s usually something that brightens your day. Maybe it’s finally improving in a sport you love, or growing from a complete novice to a confident beginner in a new skill. If you’re having trouble brainstorming, try a moment of reflection: What are you genuinely grateful for right now?
Once you’ve identified a few possibilities, think about your audience. Admissions officers connect best with stories that highlight growth, curiosity, and positivity. For example, pushing through a tough AP Physics unit and ending up proud of your work is a strong, appropriate topic. Something more personal — like finally asking out your crush — might matter to you, but it’s not the best fit for an application essay.
How to write Lehigh supplemental essays
When tackling the Common App essay or the Lehigh supplemental essays, you’ll want to have a game plan. So, follow these steps to ensure you answer the Lehigh essay prompts correctly and convey your best self to admissions officials.
Dissect the prompt
Think critically about each of the Lehigh essay prompts. Identify keywords or phrases that shed light on the specific focus of the question. By deconstructing the prompt, you can ensure your Lehigh essays don’t leave anything out. After all, the admissions team wants to see that you’ve followed instructions and fully answered their questions.
Answer using life experiences and values
Delve into your own life experiences and values. Reflect deeply on your journey, the obstacles you’ve overcome, and the pivotal moments that have shaped your character and beliefs. These personal anecdotes form the heart of your Lehigh essays. Additionally, be sure to use vivid language and real-life examples to keep the reader engaged.
Be concise and focused
While crafting your response, remember the importance of conciseness. Lehigh supplemental essays have specific word limits, so every word must serve a purpose. Clear and concise writing not only respects the reader’s time but also showcases your ability to effectively convey your ideas.
Proofread
Proofreading is a key step in the essay process. After crafting your Lehigh essays, meticulously review them for errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling, and clarity. Typos and grammatical mistakes can detract from the impact of your essay, so make sure you always review your work.
Know the requirements and meet deadlines
Adhere to Lehigh requirements for their essays and application deadlines. Allow ample time for drafting, revising, and proofreading your Lehigh essays to avoid rushing.
Ultimately, Lehigh University supplemental essays demand a meticulous approach. So, break down the prompt. Reflect on your experiences. Maintain conciseness. Proofread diligently. And, finally, never lose sight of the importance of meeting deadlines. These steps will help you craft strong Lehigh essays that reflect your character and alignment with Lehigh’s key values.
Does Lehigh care about essays?
Does Lehigh care about Lehigh supplemental essays? That’s a good question with an easy answer: Yes!
Lehigh University is known for its competitive admissions process. Strong grades undoubtedly play a vital role in the review process. However, Lehigh University also recognizes that academics alone do not define a student’s potential contribution to the campus community. This belief in holistic admissions is exemplified by the importance placed on Lehigh supplemental essays.
Lehigh University has taken a bold step by adopting a test-optional stance indefinitely. This decision reflects the university’s commitment to evaluating applicants based on more than just test scores. Instead, Lehigh University has shifted its focus to place even greater emphasis on other elements of your application. After all, the Lehigh supplemental essays are a more powerful means to gauge alignment between students’ values and the school’s own. (However, if you do choose to submit test scores, Lehigh does report average SAT and ACT scores of admitted students.)
An opportunity to show you belong
The Lehigh supplemental essays allow the school to identify students who share with their values. These Lehigh essays also provide applicants with a platform to showcase their individual strengths by sharing personal stories, experiences, and aspirations.
As a result, strong Lehigh supplemental essays make a huge difference. These essays are not merely an opportunity to showcase one’s writing skills. Rather, they are a window into the applicant’s soul, revealing their commitment to contributing to Lehigh’s vibrant academic and social landscape.
6 Tips for Writing Outstanding Lehigh essays
Crafting exceptional Lehigh University supplemental essays can enhance your application and make a lasting impression on your reader. These Lehigh essays offer you an opportunity to reveal your true self. They also let you highlight how you would contribute to and thrive within the vibrant community at Lehigh University.
Here are some tips to ensure that your Lehigh supplemental essays shine:
Tips for Writing Lehigh Essays
1. Immerse Yourself in Lehigh’s Culture
Before delving into your Lehigh University supplemental essays, take the time to explore Lehigh. Immerse yourself in the school’s core values, distinctive programs, and campus culture. Overall, familiarize yourself with what makes Lehigh unique.
2. If You’re Not Sure, Research
When crafting your Lehigh supplemental essays, remember this key tip: If you’re not sure, research! In addition to knowing about the university’s programs and values, be sure to take advantage of the resources available online. Additionally, if you are having trouble writing your Lehigh essays, CollegeAdvisor offers a plethora of guides, like our:
3. Showcase Genuine Interest
Demonstrate your genuine interest in Lehigh University by integrating your knowledge of the institution into your Lehigh essays. Highlight specific aspects that resonate with you, such as academic programs, faculty, or campus initiatives.
4. Embrace Authenticity
Approach your Lehigh University supplemental essays authentically. Share personal stories and experiences that have shaped your identity and goals. Avoid generic responses; instead, emphasize what sets you apart as an individual.
5. Craft Engaging Narratives
Transform your Lehigh supplemental essays into captivating stories. Use vivid and descriptive language to engage your readers. Tell your stories in a way that resonates with the admissions committee.
6. Proofread and Polish
Before submitting your Lehigh supplemental essays, meticulously proofread and edit them. Ensure impeccable grammar, punctuation, and clarity in your writing.
Your Lehigh supplemental essays serve as a powerful platform. Aim to convey your passion, perspective, and potential as a future member of the Lehigh community. By following these tips for your Lehigh University supplemental essays, you can create an application that showcases your unique qualities. After reading them, admissions won’t have any doubt as to why you would enrich the campus community.
Lehigh Supplemental Essays: Final Thoughts
The Lehigh University supplemental essays form a key part of the application process. Lehigh University is renowned for its academic excellence and vibrant community. However, it’s essential to understand that a strong academic record alone may not secure your place in this competitive environment. Lehigh supplemental essays offer a unique platform to convey your character, values, and alignment with the university’s mission. So, use them as a chance to stand out.
In this guide, we dove into the world of Lehigh University supplemental essays. By now, we hope that you feel well-equipped to create Lehigh University supplemental essays that enhance your application. Use our tips to help make your application stand out and make a lasting impression on the admissions team!
To assist you with completing your Lehigh essays, here are some final takeaways:
Understand the importance
Your Lehigh supplemental essays matter. These essays offer a unique chance to go beyond your academic achievements and reveal your personal traits. Schools like Lehigh look for more than just students with impressive test scores and grades. Rather, they seek individuals who will contribute to the campus community in meaningful ways. The Lehigh supplemental essays allow you to showcase who you are and why you’re an ideal fit for their community. So, make the most of them.
Know your prompts
Familiarize yourself with the specific Lehigh essay prompts. Each prompt lets you share something new about yourself. So, take the time to read and understand each prompt carefully. Consider which one resonates most with your experiences and values. Think about your personal stories and how they align with the themes presented in the prompts. Then, pick the prompt that allows you to best showcase your strengths.
Craft authentic narratives
Your Lehigh University supplemental essays give you the chance to share authentic stories. So, these essays are not the place for embellishment or exaggeration. Admissions teams value honesty and sincerity. Reflect on your life journey, the challenges you’ve faced, and the experiences that have impacted you.
Showcase genuine interest
Your Lehigh essays should highlight what you know about the school. Admissions committees appreciate applicants who have taken the time to research the university beyond surface-level information. Highlight aspects of Lehigh that resonate with you, such as academic programs, faculty, or campus initiatives. Then, explain how these aspects align with your academic and personal goals.
Conciseness is key
Given the word limits for Lehigh University supplemental essays, use every word carefully. You don’t have much space, so avoid unnecessary words and long-winded explanations. Instead, focus on conveying your message succinctly and effectively.
Proofread and polish
Meticulously proofreading and editing your essays is a must. Polished essays highlight your commitment to professionalism. It’s also good to seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or peers to gain fresh perspectives on your writing. Remember, a second pair of eyes, especially on a final draft, is always a good idea!
By incorporating these strategies into your Lehigh University supplemental essays, you’ll feel confident submitting your application. Remember, these essays serve as your voice in the Lehigh application process. They allow you to express who you are and why you are an ideal candidate for Lehigh University.
Now that you know how to get into Lehigh University with fantastic essays, start writing! We wish you the best of luck with your application.
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.
