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College Essays

If you're applying to Boston University this year, you're in luck: most applicants only need to submit one supplemental BU essay.

In this article, we'll cover what the Boston University essay prompts are, how to answer them, and provide key tips for writing the best application essays possible.

What Are the Boston University Essays?

Boston University requires all its applicants to respond to one Boston University essay as part of its admissions requirements (in addition to the Common App or Coalition App essay). You may also have to respond to an additional essay, depending on what school or program you're applying to.

Boston University accepts both the Common Application and the Coalition Application for admission , so you can choose whichever application you prefer and apply to Boston University (including submitting your essays) through that application's platform.

The essays are an important part of your application—they give you a chance to show the admissions committee a different side of your personality than what they see in the rest of your application. The Boston University essays also give you a chance to wow the admissions committee with your creativity and writing skills, so it's important to put a lot of effort into your essays to make them as strong as possible.

Boston University Essay Prompts and Requirements

There are a number of different Boston University essay prompts, depending on what program you are applying to and whether or not you decide to apply for a scholarship.

All students must answer the "Why Boston University" essay. You can also choose to submit additional work in the "Extra Space" part of the application. Applicants to the Accelerated Program in Liberal Arts and Medicine, Kilachand Honors College, and the Trustees Scholarships must also answer additional essays, each with their own word count and requirements.

Let's take a look at each of the prompts:

"Why Boston University"

"Extra Space" [OPTIONAL]

For Accelerated Program in Liberal Arts and Medicine applicants:

For Kilachand Honors College applicants:

The mission of Kilachand Honors College is to offer a challenging liberal arts education grounded in critical and creative thinking, interdisciplinary problem-solving, and the real-world application of knowledge. Please see https://www.bu.edu/khc/about/ for more details about our program, and then respond to one of the following questions in an essay (600 words):

Option A: What about the Kilachand Honors College resonates with you, and how would Kilachand's curriculum fulfill your academic, creative, intellectual, and/or professional goals?

Option B: If you could create a new Kilachand course, what would it be? How would your imagined course align with the core values of Kilachand?

For Trustees Scholarship applicants: Please select one of the questions below and respond with an essay explaining your perspective. (600 words)

• Option A: Howard Thurman, who was the dean of BU's Marsh Chapel from 1953-1965, once wrote: "Don't ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive." Can you describe a particular experience you have had or an activity that you participate in that makes you come alive? How would you try to integrate that experience or activity into your time at BU?
• Option B: Describe a time when you felt out of your comfort zone or marginalized in a situation. How did you respond to that moment and how has it informed your actions moving forward?

Boston University Essay Prompts, Analyzed

Let's take a look at each of the Boston University essay prompts. In this section, we'll break down what each prompt is asking, how you should answer, what kind of topics will work to answer the prompt, and what you should avoid talking about.

What about being a student at Boston University most excites you? (250 words)

The Boston University Supplement Essay prompt is a classic "Why this school" essay prompt. These types of essays ask you to demonstrate to the admissions committee why this school is the one for you.

Your answer should be Boston University-specific. You should do your research on Boston University to be able to name specific classes, programs, or professors that excite you. Your essay should focus on why you want to attend Boston University—not why you want to attend college in general.

Don't speak generically—Boston University knows that it has great academics and interesting classes. You need to name specific parts of the school that are attractive to you as a student. Maybe you're interested in film and television and want to be part of BUTV10, or perhaps you want to work on a Senior Design Project in College of Engineering. Whatever your reason, make it specific to BU—something that you can't get at any other college or university.

For more information on how to answer the BU essay prompt, visit our article on the subject!

Please use this space if you have additional information, materials, or writing samples you would like us to consider. (2000 KB PDF file)

This prompt may seem intimidating—what should you upload? First, remember that this is an optional prompt, and if you choose to leave it blank, that won't be a black mark on your application. If you do decide to answer it, y ou should use it as a chance to a.) demonstrate the quality of your work and/or b.) present yourself as a well-rounded person.

If, for instance, you are the first chair in your high school's wind symphony, you might want to upload a MP3 file of your playing. Boston University will have lots of students applying who are musicians—sending in a file of yourself playing can demonstrate the quality of your musicianship.

On the other hand, if you've been playing in a punk band with some friends for fun for five years but didn't mention it elsewhere on your application, this essay prompt gives you the perfect opportunity to present another aspect of your personality.

Whatever you choose to upload, make sure that it is high quality and well put-together. Submitting something that's confusing or sloppy can give the admissions committee the wrong impression, so if you don't have anything that stands out as something you'd want to submit, we recommend skipping it.

The Accelerated Programs Admission Committee is interested in learning more about you. Please write an essay on why you wish to enter the health professions, including what experiences have led you to this decision and what you hope to gain from your chosen profession. Please make sure your essay is completely distinct from the one you submitted on the Common Application. (750 words)

This prompt is only for students who are applying to the Accelerated Program in Liberal Arts and Medicine. This Boston University Supplement Essay prompt is a pretty standard example of a health professional admissions essay, but the long word count is tricky. You want to be specific and passionate, not redundant and long-winded.

You can break your essay down into two main parts: why you decided to enter the health professions and what you hope to gain from doing so. When you talk about why you decided to enter the health professions, be sure to highlight any specific experiences that influenced your decision. Don't speak in generalizations or platitudes—call out real experiences that made you decide to apply. Don't, for instance, say that you want to change the world through medicine, unless you can back it up with a solid explanation of why.

Discussing what you hope to gain from the profession is an opportunity to hammer home why Boston University is such an important part of your education. Talk about what you hope to achieve in your career and how Boston University can help you get there.

Students who are applying to Boston University's Kilachand Honors College must answer an additional 600 word prompt. You'll choose between two prompts, and both require you to discuss what about Kilachand is important to you and how you think it could help you achieve your goals.

The Kilachand Honors College is a living and learning community where you have the opportunity to participate in experiential learning activities, so it's a good idea to highlight how practical application and real-world experience is important to you in this essay.

The key to either of these prompts is to be specific. You don't need to talk about all of your academic interests here—in fact, it's probably better to just discuss one or two that are really important to you. Whatever interest you choose to write about, you should make sure that you highlight how you would continue to explore that interest at Boston University, and Kilachand specifically. Whether you choose Option A or B, make sure to discuss both your own personal interests/goals as well as how they relate to the values of Kilachand and the opportunities it offers.

Please select one of the questions below and respond with an essay explaining your perspective. (600 words)

• Option A: Howard Thurman, who was the dean of BU’s Marsh Chapel from 1953-1965, once wrote: “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” Can you describe a particular experience you have had or an activity that you participate in that makes you come alive? How would you try to integrate that experience or activity into your time at BU?

Students who are applying for the Boston University Trustees Scholarships must answer an additional essay of 600 words.

The Trustees Scholarship asks you to pick between two prompts. Both are geared towards helping the admission committee learn more about your interests and values.

If you choose Option A, you'll discuss your passions...which can be pretty fun! Think of something in your life where you light up with excitement or joy. That's what you need to focus on for this essay prompt. The key to this answer will be twofold: you need to be sincere, but you also need to be able to explain how that passion will make you a good member of the BU community.

Maybe the thing that makes you feel most alive is mountain biking. You love the physical challenge, but you also love the way the wind whips over you while you're doing a massive downhill trail. When you get to BU, you want to join the Boston University cycling team! You're hoping to make friends (and win national championships!) while at BU.

Option B wants to know how you react when you're outside of your comfort zone. It can be easy to be confident, respectful, and thoughtful when you're in a place you feel comfortable in, but once you leave that place and don't feel as valued or secure as you should, what are you like?

College is all about expanding your comfort zone, and BU wants to make sure you can handle these changes gracefully. In your response, briefly describe the situation when you felt outside your comfort zone and how it made you feel, then spend the bulk of your response explaining your reaction and what you took away from the experience. Maybe you learned to listen more than you speak or now always look out for people who seem to be overlooked in a situation because you understand how it feels. Above all, BU is looking for students who use challenges as an opportunity for growth and remain open-minded even when a situation is tough. 

Key Tips for Writing an Amazing Boston University Supplement Essay

Ready to write an amazing Boston University supplement essay? Follow these key tips to do so!

#1: Use Your Own Voice

The point of a college essay is for the admissions committee to have the chance to get to know you beyond your test scores, grades, and honors. Your admissions essays are your opportunity to make yourself come alive for the essay readers and to present yourself as a fully fleshed out person.

You should, then, make sure that the person you're presenting in your college essays is yourself. Don't try to emulate what you think the committee wants to hear or try to act like someone you're not.

If you lie or exaggerate, your essay will come across as insincere, which will diminish its effectiveness. Stick to telling real stories about the person you really are, not who you think Boston University wants you to be.

#2: Avoid Clichés and Overused Phrases

When writing your Boston University essays, try to avoid using clichés or overused quotes or phrases. These include quotations that have been quoted to death and phrases or idioms that are overused in daily life. The college admissions committee has probably seen numerous essays that state, "Be the change you want to see in the world." Strive for originality. Similarly, avoid using clichés, which take away from the strength and sincerity of your work.

Boston University's admissions committee will see thousands of essays that talk about how much the applicant loves Boston. Saying that you want to study in the world's greatest college town is trite and overdone. If you are excited about going to school in Boston, make sure that you have a really specific reason that also ties to Boston University's opportunities.

#3: Check Your Work

It should almost go without saying, but make sure your Boston University essays are the strongest example of your work possible. Before you turn in your Boston University application, make sure to edit and proofread your essays.

Your work should be free of spelling and grammar errors. Make sure to run your essays through a spelling and grammar check before you submit.

It's a good idea to have someone else read your Boston University essays, too. You can seek a second opinion on your work from a parent, teacher, or friend. Ask them whether your work represents you as a student and person. Have them check and make sure you haven't missed any small writing errors. Having a second opinion will help your work be the best it possibly can be.

Final Thoughts

Regardless of which program you're applying to at Boston University, you want to make sure that your Boston University essays are a great example of who you are as a student and a person and why Boston University should accept you.

Your essay should:

• Be personal
• Be specific
• Be free of spelling and grammar errors

Your essay should not:

• Be focused on Boston, not Boston University

The more effort you put into your essays, the better chance you have of getting accepted to Boston University!

What's Next?

Do you want to learn more about the Why Boston essay? We created an in-depth guide to help you ace this essay. Check it out here!

Starting your essay is often the hardest part. If you're unsure where to begin, check out this guide to starting a college essay perfectly , so you're ready to ace that introduction!

A good essay is just one part of a successful Boston University application . If you want to really wow the admissions office, be sure your grades and test scores are up to snuff, too!

Hayley Milliman is a former teacher turned writer who blogs about education, history, and technology. When she was a teacher, Hayley's students regularly scored in the 99th percentile thanks to her passion for making topics digestible and accessible. In addition to her work for PrepScholar, Hayley is the author of Museum Hack's Guide to History's Fiercest Females.

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The BU Trustee Scholarship: Deadlines, Advice & Essay Prompts

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Whether or not you qualify for financial aid, there are other ways to get a full ride to your dream school. If Boston University is yours, then you can apply for their merit-based BU Trustee Scholarship. 

The BU Trustee Scholarship Award

Boston University’s merit-based scholarships recognizes students academic excellence and leadership potential. The BU Trustee Scholarship is awarded to 20 outstanding new freshmen every year. The scholarship covers the students full tuition over their 4 years at BU, as long as they continue to meet the academic criteria.

Application Deadline

All seniors are welcome to apply for the BU Trustee Scholarship. Students who are interested in being a candidate for the BU Trustee Scholarship must complete and submit their BU application through the Common Application by December 1st.

In addition, BU Trustee Scholar applicants are also required to submit 2 additional supplemental essay, which will also be submitted through the Common Application.

Application Essays 

Supplemental Essay 1:

Boston University Trustee Scholars are encouraged to develop well-informed and well-reasoned views of important political, social, and artistic issues. We select students who have a sense of how to present persuasive arguments in support of their views. With that in mind, please select one of the questions below and respond with an essay explaining your perspective in 600 words or less.

Essay Prompt #1

“Some have described the worldwide appeal of populism–a grass-roots force associated with a distrust of political and cultural elites, the attraction to common-sense solutions, and an upsurge in ethnic, religious, or national pride–as a response to the upheavals of globalization. Over the past decades, technology and global trade have cost jobs and emptied cities, income inequality has grown exponentially, and, for many, the values of community and identity seem more threatened today than ever before.”

Essay Prompt #2

“In your view, is the appeal of populism a necessary and positive corrective to the challenges of globalization, an unrealistic or inadequate response to the current age, or some combination of both? Is it an example of democracy at its best or a danger to democratic institutions?”

Essay Prompt #3

“Biospecimens routinely taken during medical procedures such as blood tests, biopsies, and surgeries can be an important source for research into a variety of diseases. In some cases, this research has led to breakthroughs in the development of new drugs and therapies. While protocols are now widespread requiring explicit consent from patients before any specimens are used for research, researchers predict future areas of research, especially regarding genetic material, that are unknown today.

Do you believe patients must give their consent before any biospecimens from their bodies may be used for research? Must all possible areas of research be specified? In cases where the research leads to commercially viable treatments should they or their families be compensated?”

Essay Prompt #4

“The German poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe wrote: “One cannot escape the world more certainly than through art, and one cannot bind oneself to it more certainly than through art.”

With extended reference one novel, poem, play, piece of music, or work of art, please discuss what you believe this sentence to mean.”

Supplemental Essay 2:

In addition, please submit a short essay of no more than 300 words, to the statement below: “Something that’s not on the resume”. Give us a glimpse of a passion, dream, or mental pursuit that absorbs and delights you.

Student Insight

University of miami ‘19.

In response to one of the prompts to supplemental essay 1:

“It is unjust to claim that some nations must protect their leaders and military personnel from the jurisdiction of the ICC. Some world leaders control their country’s justice system to such an extent that the system is powerless and unable to confront them. Leaders like Kim Jong-un and Omar Hassan Al-Bashir must be under the jurisdiction of the ICC because courts in their own countries are unable to try their crimes. The leaders of our world must be held to a standard equal to or higher than the standard we hold the citizens of the world to.” Read her full BU Trustee Scholarship application.  

Dev Blair 

Boston university ‘19.

I applied for the Trustee ad Presidential scholarships via BU. These were merit-based and so they had to do with my grades. I received neither, understandably as my grades are generally average (As and Bs with the occasional C and only two or so pitfall Ds). I applied for outside scholarships as well, but a tip for these is to apply while you are still in application mode. Read his full BU application file and application advice.

——

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• How to Write a Scholarship Essay | Template & Example

How to Write a Scholarship Essay | Template & Example

Published on October 11, 2021 by Kirsten Courault . Revised on May 31, 2023.

A good scholarship essay demonstrates the scholarship organization’s values while directly addressing the prompt. If you plan ahead , you can save time by writing one essay for multiple prompts with similar questions.

Table of contents

Apply for a wide variety of scholarships, make a scholarship tracker spreadsheet, tailor your essay to the organization and the prompt, write a focused and relevant personal story, scholarship essay example, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about college application essays.

Scholarships are a type of student financial aid that don’t require repayment. They are awarded based on various factors, including academic merit, financial need, intended major, personal background, or activities and interests.

Like college applications, scholarship applications often require students to submit their grades, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and an essay.

A scholarship essay shares your values and qualities in the context of a specific question, such as “How does technology affect your daily life?” or “Who has had the greatest impact on your life?”

Be wary of scholarship scams

While some applications may not require an essay, be wary of scholarship scams that do the following:

• Guarantee you scholarship money for a fee
• Claim scholarship information is exclusive to their company
• Ask for your bank or credit card information to hold the scholarship

Some legitimate companies do charge for releasing comprehensive scholarship lists or creating a tailored list of scholarship opportunities based on your profile.

However, you can always discover scholarship opportunities for free through your school counselor, community network, or an online search.

Many students focus on well-known, large scholarship opportunities, which are usually very competitive. To maximize your chance of success, invest time in applying for a wide variety of scholarships: national and local, as well as big and small award amounts. There are also scholarships for international students .

In addition to charitable foundation and corporate scholarships, you should consider applying for institutional scholarships at your prospective universities, which can award money based on your application’s strength, your financial situation, and your demonstrated interest in the school.

Check with your guidance counselor, local organizations, community network, or prospective schools’ financial aid offices for scholarship opportunities. It’s a good idea to start applying as early as your junior year and continue throughout your senior year.

Choose the right scholarships for you

Choose scholarships with missions and essay topics that match your background, experiences, and interests. If the scholarship topic is meaningful to you, it will be easier for you to write an authentic and compelling essay.

Don’t shy away from applying for local scholarships with small dollar amounts. Even a few hundred dollars can help you pay for books.

Local scholarships may be more tailored to your community, background, and activities, so they’re likely more relevant to you. Fewer students apply for these scholarships, so you have less competition and a higher chance of success.

Some places to look for local scholarships include

• Civic organizations, such as the Rotary Club, Lions Club, etc.
• Your church, mosque, synagogue, or place of worship
• Community groups, such as the YMCA
• Ethnicity-based organizations
• Your local library or local small businesses
• Organizations related to your intended major
• Your city or town
• Your school district
• Unions, such as SEIU, the Teamsters, CWA, etc.
• Your employer or your parents’ employers
• Banks, credit unions, and local financial institutions

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

While researching scholarship opportunities, create a scholarship tracker spreadsheet to keep track of the following:

• Scholarship amounts
• Required application materials

You can use our free Google Sheets template to track your scholarship applications.

Scholarship application tracker template

You can also include scholarship essay prompts in your college essay tracker sheet . By grouping or color-code overlapping essay prompts, you can plan to write a single essay for multiple scholarships. Sometimes, you can also reuse or adapt your main college essay .

Even if you’re adapting another essay, it’s important to make sure your essay directly addresses the prompt, stays within the word count limit , and demonstrates the organization’s values. The scholarship committee will be able to tell if you reuse an essay that doesn’t quite respond to the prompt, so be sure to tailor it to the questions asked.

Research each organization

Before writing, research the scholarship organization’s mission and reason for awarding the scholarship. Learning more about the organization can help you select an appropriate topic and relevant story.

While you should tailor your essay to the organization’s values, maintain your authentic voice. Never use false or exaggerated stories. If the organization’s values don’t align with yours or you can’t brainstorm a relevant story for the scholarship, continue searching for other scholarship opportunities to find a more appropriate one for you.

After researching the organization, identify a specific personal experience that embodies its values and exemplifies why you will be a successful student.

Choose a story with the following criteria:

• Responds to the prompt
• Demonstrates the organization’s values
• Includes an authentic story
• Focuses on you and your experience, not someone else’s

A good scholarship essay is not

• A resume of your achievements
• A lengthy opinion piece about the essay topic
• An essay featuring a negative tone that puts down others

If appropriate, you can briefly address how the scholarship money will help you achieve your educational goals. You should also end with a brief thank-you.

Take a look at the full essay example below. Hover over the underlined parts to read explanations of why they work.

Prompt: Describe how working for Chelsea’s Chicken restaurant has developed leadership skills that will help you succeed in college. Give specific examples of leadership characteristics that you have exhibited during your employment with us.

As a nervous 16-year-old, I walked into Chelsea’s Chicken for my first day of work determined to make enough money to put gas in my car and buy pizza on the weekends. My only previous job was mowing my neighbors’ lawns when they were on vacation, so I had no idea what to expect. I was a bit intimidated by my new responsibilities, especially handling money and helping disgruntled customers.

However, it didn’t take me long to learn my way around the cash register and successfully address customer complaints. One day, Roger, the store manager, asked me if I wanted to join Chelsea’s Chicken Leadership Training Initiative. He said he saw leadership potential in me because of my attitude with the customers and my enthusiasm for learning new job responsibilities. It surprised me because I had never thought of myself as a leader, but I quickly agreed, and Roger handed me a three-ring binder that was thicker than my math and science textbooks put together! He told me to take it home and read over it during the following week.

In that binder, I discovered that being a leader means taking the initiative, especially when the job is undesirable. One week later, I got to practice that idea when a little kid threw up in the bathroom and missed the toilet. It smelled terrible, but I stepped forward and told Roger that I would clean it up. My coworkers thought I was crazy, but I started to believe in my leadership potential.

That night as we closed the store, Roger pulled me aside in the parking lot and told me that he could tell that I had been studying the manual. He wanted to give me more responsibility, along with a dollar-per-hour pay raise. I was surprised because I had been working there for only a couple of months, but his encouragement helped me make a connection: good leadership helps other people, and it often is rewarded. I was determined to experience more of both.

Within a month, I was ready to take the Team Leader exam, which mattered because I would receive a promotion and a much bigger raise if I passed. But, when I got to work, two of the scheduled team members had called in sick. We were noticeably short-handed, and our customers weren’t happy about it.

I walked back to the lockers, put on my vest and hat, and took my place behind an open register. Customers immediately moved into my line to place their orders. Roger looked at me with surprise and asked, “Did you forget that you’re testing tonight?” I responded, “No, sir—but what’s the use of taking a leadership test if you aren’t going to lead in real life?” Roger smiled at me and nodded.

He stayed late that night after we closed so that I could leave early and still take the test. I noticed that Roger was always staying late, helping employees learn new skills. His example taught me that leaders take the initiative to develop other leaders. He gave me a clear picture of what shared leadership looks like, making room for others to grow and excel. When I asked him where he learned to do that, he said, “From the same leadership manual I gave you!”

Chelsea’s Chicken has offered me so much more than a paycheck. Because of Roger’s example, I have learned to take the initiative to care for my family and friends, such as being the first to do the dishes without my mom asking or volunteering to pick up my friend for our SAT prep course. Now, as I prepare to enter college, I have confidence in my leadership ability. I know I’m signing up for a challenging major—Biology, Pre-Med—yet I also know that Chelsea’s Chicken has helped me to develop the perseverance required to complete my studies successfully.

If you want to know more about academic writing , effective communication , or parts of speech , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Academic writing

• Writing process
• Transition words
• Passive voice
• Paraphrasing

 Communication

• How to end an email
• Ms, mrs, miss
• How to start an email
• I hope this email finds you well
• Hope you are doing well

 Parts of speech

• Personal pronouns
• Conjunctions

A scholarship essay requires you to demonstrate your values and qualities while answering the prompt’s specific question.

After researching the scholarship organization, identify a personal experience that embodies its values and exemplifies how you will be a successful student.

Invest time in applying for various scholarships , especially local ones with small dollar amounts, which are likely easier to win and more reflective of your background and interests. It will be easier for you to write an authentic and compelling essay if the scholarship topic is meaningful to you.

You can find scholarships through your school counselor, community network, or an internet search.

You can start applying for scholarships as early as your junior year. Continue applying throughout your senior year.

Yes, but make sure your essay directly addresses the prompt, respects the word count , and demonstrates the organization’s values.

If you plan ahead, you can save time by writing one scholarship essay for multiple prompts with similar questions. In a scholarship tracker spreadsheet, you can group or color-code overlapping essay prompts; then, write a single essay for multiple scholarships. Sometimes, you can even reuse or adapt your main college essay .

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Trustee Scholars Program

The Trustee Scholarship is Boston University’s most distinguished merit scholarship available to incoming students. The goal of the Trustee Scholarship is to enable our students to pursue their passions, no matter where they lead.

To that end, the Trustee Scholars are not required to follow any set curriculum or take any specific classes. And while many of our students do enroll in BU’s Kilachand Honors College , they need not do so.

Additionally, Trustee Scholars have the option of living in a historic brownstone at the heart of BU’s campus with other recipients of the scholarship, but may choose to live anywhere on campus that they like.

Scholars are enrolled in colleges across the BU campus and work in an incredible array of disciplines, including: television and film writing, neuroscience, acting, Chinese language and literature, biomedical engineering, and linguistics. Trustee scholars are actors, activists, and entrepreneurs. They are volunteers, emerging scholars, and campus leaders. With the Trustee Scholarship, you can do anything and everything at BU.

The Trustee Scholar Experience

Trustee Scholars also have the option to participate in multiple outings each semester that allow students to explore Boston’s cultural offerings. These might include a night at the theater or symphony, a foreign film showing, or a special exhibit at one of Boston’s museums. These nights out are always accompanied by a dinner, which gives Scholars a chance to meet or catch up with each other. Scholars also have the choice of participating in a book and movie club each semester, which provides a time for thoughtful discussion of a book or film that’s not assigned for class.

Learn more about the Trustee Scholar experience.

Application Details

Every year, BU welcomes approximately 20 outstanding students to the Trustee Scholars Program. Information for incoming students about the application process are located on the University Admissions website.

For more information, contact Prof. April Hughes , Faculty Director of the Trustee Scholars Program:   [email protected]

What are your chances of acceptance?

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3 Strong Boston University Essay Examples

Boston University is a top research university in the heart of the city. With a fairly low acceptance rate, admissions is pretty selective, and writing strong essays is essential to standing out.

BU requires one essay for all applicants, and has an additional information prompt that is optional. Applicants to the Accelerated Program in Liberal Arts and Medicine have another essay, and Honors College applicants have two additional essays.

In this post, we’ll then go over example essays from a real applicants, analyzing what they did well, and what could be improved.

Please note: Looking at examples of real essays students have submitted to colleges can be very beneficial to get inspiration for your essays. You should never copy or plagiarize from these examples when writing your own essays. Colleges can tell when an essay isn’t genuine and will not view students favorably if they plagiarized. 

Read our BU essay breakdown to get a comprehensive overview of this year’s supplemental prompts. 

Essay Example #1

Prompt: What about being a student at Boston University most excites you? (250 words)

I am most excited by Boston University’s Societal Engineer vision. As an aspiring engineer with a strong interest in government, I love that BU encourages engineering majors to strengthen their communication skills and global awareness. 

Academically speaking, I would explore political science courses through BU Hub requirements like Historical Consciousness and Ethical Reasoning. In addition, I would explore the world through the semester-abroad programs offered by BU for engineering majors. If admitted, I would love to study in Grenoble (and brush up on my French!) as a sophomore.

Beyond academics, BU’s student groups also align with the Social Engineer vision. BU’s Engineers Without Borders mission spans both engineering and communication, as their project in Zambia involved both in developing sanitation systems and presenting posters on these systems to the community. Given my strong desire to help others through engineering, I would devote my time and energy to EWB’s projects at BU. 

I am also intrigued by BU’s political student groups, and I appreciate that BU’s student government offers students from all colleges leadership as Senators. I work closely with my high school’s administration as the vice president of our honor society and the overseer of student elections, and I would enjoy doing something similar at BU.

At BU, I can see myself tinkering with Autodesk Inventor late into the night and petitioning legislatures to fix gerrymandered districts. Because BU’s Societal Engineer vision would encourage both my STEM and humanities interests, I am very excited about being a student at BU. 

What the Essay Did Well

This essay is a strong response that adequately conveys what the student hopes to obtain from an education from Boston University. The applicant begins with a straightforward statement that expresses their interests in engineering and government.

Establishing this cross-disciplinary interest immediately sets the candidate apart from other engineering majors and makes their response more unique. By mentioning the intersection of engineering and government, the candidate hits upon a rare niche that demonstrates a willingness to bridge two seemingly disparate subjects. 

The student also mentions a study abroad opportunity specific for those within their major. They mention a specific study abroad destination, which further underscores their interest in this offering. The inclusion about brushing up on their French establishes a personal connection to their location choice, which also strengthens this portion of the response.

Next, the applicant discusses BU’s relevant extracurricular opportunities:

This inclusion is a good example of taking a BU-specific offering and expanding on what specific project the author intends to work on. They do a good job of connecting an engineering-related club to their humanities-related passions. 

The applicant then concludes with the following: 

These final sentences do a nice job of wrapping up the response in a way that allows the essay to flow smoothly until the end. The mentions of Autodesk Inventor and petitions provide readers with specific details that corroborate the points made earlier in the response. The applicant ends with a forward-facing sentence that solidifies their desire to attend BU. Similarly, you should aim to wrap up your response with a final statement that encapsulates your essay thus far and also points ahead to your future at the university.

What Could Be Improved

This essay could be strengthened in that the candidate does not necessarily establish a personal connection to BU’s Societal Engineer vision. To improve this, they could briefly elaborate on what drew them to this academic intersection. Perhaps volunteering at a homeless shelter opened their eyes to housing inequalities, which stem from issues with both finding cheap building materials and their city’s budget. Or, perhaps their interest in creating sustainable plastic substitutes drew them to explore both materials engineering and environmental policy. This personal connection would strengthen the overall authenticity of this essay and provide a flow for admissions officers to follow. 

The next portion of this response could also be improved. It centers on BU’s academic opportunities:

The applicant demonstrates that they have researched their major and mention a specific requirement. This is a good start; however, they should elaborate more on why they chose to mention this specific category. They can talk about how they hope to learn more about specific courses within this category. 

For instance, maybe they want to learn about security in America to inform their sense of national politics, or delve into the representation of the Holocaust in film, as they feel current policies on religious diversity should consider this topic. This further elaboration will round out this portion of the response rather than leaving it underdeveloped.

Essay Example #2

Prompt: What about the Kilachand Honors College resonates with you, and how would Kilachand’s curriculum fulfill your academic, creative, intellectual, and/or professional goals? (600 words)

I am an example of societal rejection. My lack of adherence to gender constructs breaks traditional expectations as my queerness takes over any sense of “normality” that society could see in me. As a queer, nonbinary person of color and an Indian immigrant, I’ve moved away from expectations that demand a definition of my characteristics and have begun to explore who I am on a profound level. It’s this concept of exploration that I aspire to integrate into my education so that I can learn more about others and understand the incomprehensible by any means, whether it be through interacting with different aspects of humanity, connecting with new communities, or increasing my knowledge on a topic. 

I’ve found this same ring of curiosity and educational passion that distinguishes Kilachand Honors College and have come to resonate with it, whether it be through the different community based circle meetings, the dissimilar seminars focused on developing critical and creative thinking, or the focus on experiential learning. However, Kilachand takes this interest for learning one step further, adding another dimension to the challenging liberal education through building on layers of global, social, corporate, and geopolitical challenges within the classes. This interdisciplinary aspect of the Kilachand curriculum provides me with the chance to understand issues from different perspectives, which I’d take advantage of to fulfill my professional goal of directing a human rights campaign. 

Specific classes like KHC HC 401: Epistemologies and the Process of Inquiry and KHC HC 301: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Global Challenges offer new intellectual opportunities I have been seeking while also supporting me in utilizing my education in a way that benefits my community. The emphasis placed on exploring the real life impact of students’ work in Kilachand’s integrated curriculum is empowering and would help me use education as a tool to build on my global perspective and make a meaningful difference.

It is my goal to learn more about the unfamiliar so that I can apply that knowledge to “unsolvable global issues” that are only labeled as such because of a cultural disconnect or societal difference. Kilachand supports this goal through offering co-curricular events and residencies where I can connect with other cultures through visiting different cultural institutions or having enlightening discussions with leading professionals. I am inspired by the passion behind the Kilachand community; events such as the POC and LGBTQIA+ Circle meetings are features of the Kilachand community that I hope to contribute to and learn from. By learning about others’ experiences and sharing my own, I aspire to be a part of the intellectual curiosity that is shared among Kilachand students.

The copious academic, cultural, and social opportunities at Kilchand all connect back to the same pillar of change that I have continuously been drawn to. Even though my interests are diverse and follow multiple tracks, the diversity of opportunities at Kilchand resonate with my varied passions and offer an accepting community connected through curiosity, which I hope to contribute to. 

The essay starts out with a bold, unexpected first sentence that hooks the audience into continuing to read the essay. This well-crafted writing seamlessly leads into an introduction about the writer, their values, and what they are looking for in a college education. The following paragraphs show how the Kilachand Honors College is an ideal fit for them.

The key to writing any “Why This College?” essay is to highlight specific resources that the college offers. This essay does that well by mentioning a wide range of BU resources by name, including classes, the integrated curriculum, the interdisciplinary educational philosophy, and extracurricular activities. By directly stating that they want to take “specific classes like KHC HC 401: Epistemologies and the Process of Inquiry,” the writer shows that they have done thorough research into the Honors College. More than anything else, evidence of this research demonstrates interest in the offerings of the Honors College and a strong “why” for applying.

The writer has not created a laundry list of resources with their essay either. They show that they have a personal interest in each resource by using “I” statements and explaining their ideas for making the most of the Honors College in the future. Instead of simply stating “I am looking forward to joining clubs related to social justice at BU,” the writer presents a much clearer and more confident vision for their academic future with the phrase “…events such as the POC and LGBTQIA+ Circle meetings are features of the Kilachand community that I hope to contribute to and learn from.”

Though the essay is highly specific with the resources it mentions in most parts, several sentences in the second paragraph could be strengthened:

However, Kilachand takes this interest for learning one step further, adding another dimension to the challenging liberal education through building on layers of global, social, corporate, and geopolitical challenges within the classes. This interdisciplinary aspect of the Kilachand curriculum provides me with the chance to understand issues from different perspectives…

Many other colleges offer an interdisciplinary curriculum, so the writer should write additional details here about Kilachand’s “interdisciplinary aspect.” They should ask themselves, is there a specific university value which encourages professors to tie many academic disciplines together in the classroom? Does BU require Kilachand students to take an honors core curriculum that covers many areas? Answering these questions would add the right level of specificity to the writer’s point about Kilachand’s educational philosophy. 

The essay would also be stronger if the writer explained exactly how Kilachand fosters curiosity. If curiosity were a core value of the Honors College, the writer could clarify by changing part of the essay’s last sentence to “an accepting community connected through the value of curiosity.”

Essay Example #3

Prompt: Describe a time when you felt out of your comfort zone or marginalized in a situation. How did you respond to that moment and how has it informed your actions moving forward? (600 words)

“The last 10% is 90% of the work.”

It was written on a small, ripped-off piece of yellow legal paper in fading blue ink. And now, it still sits in my desk drawer, four years after it was given to me by my band director, Mr. Laghari. It was one day in ninth grade, about two weeks before I was to perform my very first audition, that Mr. Laghari strolled over to where I was sitting.

“Alright Kat, let’s hear this district piece!”

What followed, looking back, was absolutely the most mediocre performance you’ve ever heard.

“Well done! I have a few comments for you though. Mainly, it seems like you have the notes and rhythms down, but you gotta add some musicality!”

I had no clue what he was talking about; it showed in my face.

“Expression! Dynamics! You know!”

But I didn’t.

“Oh come on! It’s the last part, right before the audition, the hardest part. You know, my high school band director once told me…”

He took out his yellow legal pad and began writing.

“The. Last. Ten. Percent. Is. Ninety. Percent. Of. The. Work.”

He ripped it off, and gave it to me. And I took it to heart. I looked up musicality, expression, dynamics, and worked to map out phrases in the music. I recorded myself to see what I could add to make it musical .

When the audition came around, I was ready. When they called euphoniums, I enthusiastically left my school’s group and walked with the rest of the auditionees to the holding room. But it was a long walk. Not only did I start to miss the safety of my school group, I started to get in my own head. What if I put in all my hard work for nothing? What would people think? My parents? Mr. Laghari? In the holding room, I squirmed in my seat, waiting for my name to get called. The clock on the wall ticked and ticked, my anxiety building all the while. Finally, my name was called, second-to-last, and as I followed the volunteer to the audition room, I suddenly remembered Mr. Laghari’s slip of paper. I just needed to give my ninety percent. I focused myself, and did just that.

So it came as a surprise to me when Mr. Laghari told me that I placed seventh, and they took the top six players, on the bus ride home. Not only was I surprised, I was crushed. “We’ll get ‘em next year!” he said. But all I heard was “You didn’t make it this year.” It was a bitter trip.

It took me about a week to realize what he said, and that I would crush it next year. I told myself it wasn’t a matter of auditioning to see if I could make it. I told myself auditioning was a formality. And as I looked at the blue ink on that slip of paper, with all of those crushing memories now attached, I told myself that I would give my ninety percent not just on the last ten percent of the work, but on all of it: every year. And with that mindset, I’ve not only placed first in All-Districts on trombone and euphonium, but have made it all the way to All-State. 

So, whenever I need inspiration for a project, motivation to finish my homework, determination not to give up, I just open up my desk drawer. And one day in the near future, when I move off to Boston University, that slip of paper is what I’ll be taking with me.

This essay is a moving example of how to tell a story with dialogue. Beginning the essay with dialogue is unexpected, which automatically makes for a gripping hook. At the same time, dialogue is an excellent way to organize the essay and convey main ideas in a succinct, yet creative way. The one-sentence introduction of the essay summarizes its entire message more effectively than a paragraph.

The writer then shows how they felt out of their comfort zone and responded by focusing on several specific moments of their journey to become a better musician. Writing about a few parts of a story with vivid detail will result in stronger narrative than a more general, big picture account. 

Lastly, the essay is cohesive and moving because of its motif, or recurring theme, of Mr. Laghari’s slip of paper. This one detail ties the whole essay together from start to finish. The motif makes the essay flow well and stay on topic, which are among the greatest challenges for any college essay writer. Of course, the motif makes for an awe-inspiring concluding sentence as well!

The writer could strengthen their essay by responding further to the last question of the prompt about how their moment of discomfort informed their actions moving forward. The writer certainly touches on this, but only talks about working harder as a musician and high school student. Adding a few more sentences to the second-to-last paragraph about their plans for the far future would answer the prompt more completely. For example, they could expand the final sentence of that paragraph to the following:

And with that mindset, I’ve not only placed first in All-Districts on trombone and euphonium, but have made it all the way to All-State. I’m now inspired to put 100% into my dream of becoming a professional musician in a philharmonic orchestra.

Where to Get Your BU Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your BU 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. In fact,  Alexander Oddo , an essay expert on CollegeVine, provided commentary on the essays in this post. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

How to win Boston University Scholarships

Boston University Scholarships – Introduction

The cost of college is undoubtedly a substantial investment. While the Boston University tuition may seem overwhelming, remember that there are Boston University scholarships. These can offset some (or maybe even all) of the cost of college tuition. 

The Boston University tuition is $63,798 , making it one of the more expensive universities in the nation. But don’t stress quite yet. While the initial Boston University tuition may seem high, there are Boston University scholarships, such as the Trustee Scholarship at Boston University. The school also offers financial aid to make the cost of college more accessible .

However, winning merit-based scholarships for college can be challenging. Boston University admissions states that they meet 100% of need for their incoming students, awarding over 300 million dollars to undergraduates. However, only 8% of the aid given to help with the Boston University tuition is done so through merit-based scholarships for college. 

So, how can you get one of these elite Boston University scholarships?

At CollegeAdvisor.com, we break down some of the top merit-based scholarships for college across the country to help you finance your college dreams. In this article, we’ll focus on Boston University scholarships, specifically the BU Trustee Scholarship.

What we’ll cover in this “Boston University Scholarships” article: 

• What merit-based scholarships are
• How to win merit-based scholarships
• All about the Boston University merit scholarships, including the Boston University Trustee Scholarship
• Meeting the Boston University scholarships deadlines, and more!

CollegeAdvisor.com is here to help with everything from asking for letters of recommendation to enrolling in college . But, for now, let’s focus on the Trustee Scholarship at Boston University, as well as their other merit-based scholarships

What is a Merit-Based Scholarship?

Merit-based scholarships are the financial support offered to students based on their academic achievements. They differ from financial aid scholarships in that they are not need-based. These scholarships for college are awarded based on other factors: grades, extracurriculars, standardized test scores, community involvement, etc.

The goal of Boston University scholarships is to reward and recognize excellence . Boston University admissions is highly selective. The Trustee Scholarship at Boston University, which covers the full Boston University tuition, is even more competitive. While it’s not impossible to win Boston University scholarships, it does take some early planning and outstanding academics. Specifically, you need to maintain an above- average GPA throughout high school.

The merit-based scholarships awarded to first-year students are the BU Trustee Scholarship, Presidential Scholarship, National Merit Scholarship, College Board National Recognition Programs, and the College of Engineering FIRST Robotics Scholarship. The amounts of these scholarships range from $25,000 to full tuition. 

While the Boston University Trustee Scholarship is the most sought-after merit-based scholarship, BU does offer others. While most Boston University scholarships are based on academics, there are some that are based on a student’s other exceptional abilities (athletics, art, leadership, etc.). 

Interested in finding and applying to merit-based scholarships at other schools? Check out how to win scholarships for college at Vanderbilt and USC . Or learn how to look for and win outside scholarships for college such as the Coca-Cola Scholarship.  

How can I win merit-based scholarships?

Having the full cost of college covered sounds great, right? Indeed, merit-based scholarships are a wonderful opportunity to offset the Boston University tuition. But, what does it take to win the Boston University Trustee Scholarship (or any of the Boston University merit scholarships)?

Winning merit-based scholarships for college is hard. Schools award them on the basis of exceptional talent, whether academic, artistic, or athletic. BU awards the top Boston University merit scholarships to incoming freshmen who were high-achieving academic students who showed leadership through extracurriculars or community involvement. 

The Boston University Trustee Scholarship winners ranked in the top 5% of their graduating class. Further, they had SAT scores over 1500 and ACT scores above 33. Those may be some intimidating statistics, but there are ways to improve your odds and win merit-based scholarships. 

Top tips to win the Boston University Trustee Scholarship (or other Boston University scholarships): 

1. Display academic excellence

Getting high grades in challenging courses is vital to winning the Boston Trustee scholarship. Plan to take AP classes in subjects that you excel in. You’ll need a high GPA for the Trustee Scholarship at Boston University.

2. Demonstrate leadership

Extracurriculars and community involvement will demonstrate your excellent leadership skills. This will help you stand out from the pool of 4.0 GPA-achieving applicants and win Boston University scholarships. Therefore, get involved early in your high school career. Choose activities that interest you and stick with them. 

3. Show off writing skills

You’ll need to show off your writing chops with your Boston University Trustee scholarship essay. This is your chance to say why you deserve the scholarship, but also to impress with some dazzling writing skills. Start early . You’ll want to draft, edit, revise, and repeat. 

4. Meet deadlines

Make sure that you submit everything by the Boston University Trustee Scholarship deadline. That means finishing your Boston University application, supplemental materials, and Boston University Trustee Scholarship essay in time. 

Are there Boston University merit scholarships?

Boston University admissions offers merit-based scholarships for college to eligible incoming freshmen. The Boston University Trustee Scholarship covers recipients’ full Boston University tuition. However, the competition is fierce. 

Aside from the BU Trustee Scholarship, there are other Boston University scholarships based on academic achievement available. Check out these merit-based scholarships for incoming freshmen. 

Furthermore, there are Boston University merit scholarships for students who excel in areas other than academics, such as athletics and the arts. Check out the full list of Boston University scholarships for college. 

What is the Trustee Scholarship?

Since the Boston University Trustee Scholarship offers its scholars a full ride, it’s no wonder the Boston University Trustee Scholarship has caught your attention. The Boston Trustee Scholarship is the most elite scholarship that the university offers. Winners of the Boston University Trustee Scholarship receive full tuition and the cost of undergraduate mandatory fees. If all criteria are met, scholars can renew their Boston University Trustee Scholarship for their four years at a university. 

Only 20 exceptional students receive the Boston University Trustee Scholarship each year. The Boston University Trustee Scholarship winners rank at the top of their high school class and have perfect 4.0 GPAs in high school. Recipients of the Boston Trustee scholarship show not only academic excellence but also achievements that go beyond the classroom. Boston University Trustee Scholarship winners also are intellectually curious and creative leaders. 

If you’re interested in applying to the BU Trustee Scholarship, submit your Boston University application via the Common App (with all required materials) by December 1 st . In addition, you must complete the Boston University Trustee Scholarship essay. This will be found on the Common Application, as part of your Boston University application. 

We’ll expand more on the eligibility requirements for the Boston University Trustee Scholarship later in this “Boston University Scholarships” article. 

What does the BU Trustee Scholarship cover?

Boston University tuition is high. Luckily, if you’re eligible, you can get financial aid and Boston University scholarships. The Boston University Trustee Scholarship is the most prestigious of the Boston University scholarships offered to incoming freshmen. 

The Trustee Scholarship at Boston University covers the full tuition cost and mandatory undergraduate student fees. Boston University Trustee Scholarship winners can renew their BU Trustee Scholarship yearly if they meet certain criteria. 

For more specific details on what the Boston Trustee Scholarship covers, you can contact the financial aid office at 617-353-2320.

How hard is it to win the Boston University Trustee Scholarship?

The cost of universities across the nation is high. For this reason,  all merit-based scholarships are competitive. The Boston University Trustee Scholarship is no exception. The BU acceptance rate is just below 19% , making Boston University admissions highly selective . Even so, the Boston University Trustee Scholarship is even more selective.

Amongst students Boston University admissions decides to admit, only 20 will receive the Boston University Trustee Scholarship. Boston University Trustee Scholarship winners are well supported with the cost of college. Those who receive the BU Trustee Scholarship will have their full tuition and mandatory undergraduate fees covered. The Boston Trustee Scholarship is renewable for scholars’ four years at school. 

Academics are extremely important in obtaining the elite Trustee Scholarship at Boston University. The winners of the Boston University Trustee Scholarship have perfect 4.0 GPAs throughout high school, high standardized test scores, and rank high in their graduating class. Therefore, focus on maintaining high grades throughout high school. 

If you want to win a Boston University Trustee Scholarship, extracurriculars and community involvement are also vital. Choose activities that you enjoy and can commit to early on in your school career. Boston University Trustee Scholarship winners are exceptionally well-rounded, high-achieving students.  

Trustee Scholarship Eligibility Requirements

In order to win Boston University scholarships, you must excel academically and meet all other eligibility requirements. When applying for merit-based scholarships for college, the first step is to check the requirements to make sure you submit everything correctly and on time. 

Firstly, for the most complete and up-to-date information, always check the eligibility requirements for Boston University scholarships on their website . 

The Boston Trustee Scholarship requirements are straightforward. To apply for the Boston Trustee Scholarship, students must submit the Common App with all required materials and the Boston University Trustee Scholarship essay by December 1 st . These required materials include all the regular Common App requirements and one additional 600-word essay. You will find more information on that essay below.

Only 20 students will receive the Trustee Scholarship at Boston University. Therefore, only apply if you are a top-ranked student, with a high GPA, and outstanding extracurriculars and/or community involvement. 

The Boston University Trustee Scholarship Application

There aren’t many additional requirements when applying for the Boston University Trustee Scholarship. Students need to fill out their Boston University application in Common App with all the required supplemental materials by December 1 st . 

In addition to the regular admissions Common App materials, in order to be in with a chance of winning the Boston Trustee Scholarship, you’ll also need to submit the Boston University Trustee Scholarship essay. You should submit the Boston University Trustee Scholarship essay in addition to your other Boston University application essays, as a part of the Common App. 

Students must choose to respond to one of the following prompts (600-word max): 

Nobel laureate and BU professor Elie Wiesel once said: “There is divine beauty in learning… To learn means to accept the postulate that life did not begin at my birth. Others have been here before me, and I walk in their footsteps. The books I have read were composed by generations of fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, teachers and disciples. I am the sum total of their experiences, their quests.” Is there a book, film, podcast or life- experience that has made you feel more connected to your personal history/identity, and what is the most important thing you learned from it?

Describe a time when you felt out of your comfort zone or marginalized in a situation. How did you respond to that moment and how has it informed your actions moving forward?

To give yourself the best chance of winning the Trustee Scholarship at Boston University, choose the essay topic that most excites you. Start brainstorming ideas early. Give yourself plenty of time to draft, edit, and revise. You’ll want to answer the prompt, show your personality, and display your writing style all with impeccable mechanics. 

The Common App opens on August 1 st . Make sure to start your Boston University application early. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to craft your Boston University application in a way that showcases your abilities in the best manner. Finally, be sure to check the site for the most up-to-date essay BU Trustee Scholarship requirement information.

What are the other Boston University merit scholarships?

The Boston University Trustee Scholarship is the most prestigious of the Boston University merit scholarships, but it certainly isn’t the only one. There are many other Boston University scholarships that can help students fund the cost of college. 

Let’s review the details of four Boston University merit scholarships for first-year students, besides the Trustee Scholarship at Boston University. 

Boston University’s Presidential Scholarship

The Presidential Scholarship is awarded to students who excel academically. Winners of this scholarship will also need to show leadership ability and skills outside of the classroom through extracurriculars and community involvement. 

The Presidential Scholarship awards $25,000 towards Boston University tuition. You don’t need to submit any additional requirements in order to apply. Just be sure to submit your regular application with all required materials by December 1 st . 

National Merit Scholarship

Boston University offers the National Merit Scholarship to students who are finalists in the National Merit Competition. To enter, finalists must state BU as their first choice college with the National Merit Scholarship Corporation by March 1 st . Winners of these Boston University scholarships are awarded a $25,000 renewable scholarship towards tuition (the Presidential Scholarship). To give yourself the best chances, start preparing early. 

Interested? Find out more about how to enter the National Merit Competition below . 

How to Win a National Merit Scholarship

College Board National Recognition Program

Another way to win the Presidential Scholarship is through the College Board National Recognition Programs . You’re eligible if you have been recognized by the College Board National Recognition Program, and have a strong academic record. The scholarship awards $25,000 to its recipients, which is renewable for four years. Students identifying as Indigenous, Latinx or Hispanic, African American, and those who attend a small, rural school are eligible to apply. This Boston University application needs to be submitted by January 1st. If College Board does select you, the Board of Admission and the Scholarship Committee at BU will consider you for the Presidential Scholarship. 

Boston University College of Engineering Scholarship

The College of Engineering FIRST Robotics Scholarship is another $25,000, four-year renewable scholarship to cover tuition. To be eligible, you need to have taken part in the FIRST Robotics program during high school for at least one season. You also need to have gained acceptance to the College of Engineering at BU. You need to submit the application to the College of Engineering, with all additional materials, by January 4 th . In addition, you must submit a recommendation form and letter of recommendation found here by February 1 st . You must also be a US citizen or US permanent resident. 

Boston University Scholarship Deadlines

Meeting the eligibility requirements for the Boston University Trustee Scholarship and the other Boston University scholarships is extremely important. That means meeting all of the deadlines for these merit-based scholarships for college, including the Boston University Trustee Scholarship deadline. Submit late and BU won’t consider you for the BU Trustee Scholarship or any of the other Boston University merit scholarships. 

Here is a table with some important deadlines for the Boston University merit scholarships: 

Start your applications early in order to ensure you complete all the requirements before these Boston University scholarships deadlines. Staying organized throughout the college application process is key. The fall of senior year is always hectic. It can be difficult to juggle applications for merit-based scholarships at the same time as college applications. Try to create (and stick to) a timeline that will ensure you have plenty of time to complete all materials and meet your deadlines. 

Boston University Scholarship – FAQs

We’ve delved into many of the details on the Boston Trustee Scholarship, including the Boston University Trustee Scholarship deadline and application requirements. Applying to scholarships for college and financial aid can be tough. But everyone has similar questions about Boston University Scholarships. 

So, let’s go over some of the FAQs pertaining to the BU Trustee Scholarship and other Boston University merit scholarships. 

How much do the BU Scholarships award students?

The amounts BU awards to students will depend on the Boston University merit scholarships they receive. The Trustee Scholarship at Boston University awards students their full tuition and mandatory undergraduate fees. The other scholarships for college mentioned awarding $25,000 towards tuition. 

Do the Boston University scholarships renew each year?

All of the Boston University merit scholarships mentioned in this article, including the BU Trustee Scholarship, renew yearly if students meet certain criteria. Make sure you know the criteria if awarded one of the Boston University merit scholarships. 

How competitive are BU scholarships?

The Boston University acceptance rate is highly competitive , and their merit-based scholarships are even more competitive. Boston University Trustee Scholarship winners are held to the highest academic standards. In order to improve your chances of winning one of the merit-based scholarships, make sure you excel academically and get involved in extracurriculars. 

How do you receive your funding from the BU scholarships?

BU will send the Boston University merit scholarships directly to your student account. The tuition cost you’re responsible for covering will have your scholarship amount factored into it unless you receive the BU Trustee Scholarship, which covers full tuition. 

Can I apply for merit-based scholarships if I don’t qualify for financial aid?

Students are able to apply for merit-based scholarships if they don’t qualify for financial aid. BU states that it covers 100% of demonstrated need of its students. That’s done through a combination of work study, BU scholarships, and grants. If requiring financial aid, do so through affordableBU , and make sure to complete your CSS Profile and the FAFSA before the deadlines. 

The cost of college is an important factor in the college decision process. Make sure you know all the facts and meet the deadlines. And remember – there’s no way you can obtain the BU Trustee Scholarship without meeting the Boston University Trustee Scholarship deadline.

Need motivation when applying to scholarships? Check out this webinar to learn all about BU from an admissions expert and get excited about your potential future college home.  

5 Tips to win Boston University Scholarships

Merit-based Boston University scholarships for college are competitive, but not impossible. Boston University merit scholarships are difficult to obtain, especially the Boston University Trustee Scholarship. For this reason, we’ve compiled some tips to give you the best odds at winning scholarships for college. 

1. Achieve high grades

If we look at the BU Trustee Scholarship for guidance, then academics are most important. Work to achieve high grades throughout high school. Take AP and IB courses that interest you to help increase your GPA. Boston University Trustee Scholarship winners had an average GPA of 4.0 throughout high school and ranked high in their graduating class. In short, academic achievement is key in obtaining merit-based Boston University scholarships, so plan early and focus on your studies. 

2. Do some test prep

While submitting standardized test scores is currently optional, high test scores could help your Boston University application stand out. Students granted the Boston Trustee Scholarship who submitted scores had an SAT score of over 1500 and an ACT score above 33. Start prepping for exams early on and sign up for a test by the beginning of your junior year. 

3. Participate in extracurriculars

The Trustee Scholarship at Boston University is awarded to 20 well-rounded and high-achieving students yearly. Winners need to have impressive extracurriculars that show leadership and academic curiosity. Don’t sign up for every school club, though. Choose extracurriculars that interest you and enable you to grow as a leader. 

4. Get involved in your community

Community involvement is important when it comes to gaining merit-based scholarships. This could be tied into the extracurriculars you dot. Being an active participant and leader in your community will impress Boston University admissions. When combined with academic achievement, it will make you a competitive candidate for Boston University merit scholarships. 

5. Compelling essays

Essays are important in the application process. The same goes when it comes to obtaining merit-based scholarships for college. Really focus on your BU Trustee Scholarship essay. Start writing it early. You should carefully and thoughtfully respond to the prompt while demonstrating your writing style, and showing impeccable mechanics. 

As well as these tips, make sure you meet the Boston University Trustee Scholarship deadline or the other Boston University scholarships deadlines. This will give you the best shot at winning one of the Boston University scholarships for college. 

How to win Boston University scholarships- Final Thoughts

In this “Boston University Scholarships” article, we’ve learned all the details on the Boston University Trustee Scholarship and touched on some other Boston University merit scholarships. We’ve covered everything from academic importance to the Boston University Trustee Scholarship deadline. 

When working on your Boston University application, keep in mind the Boston University merit scholarships deadlines, especially the Boston University Trustee Scholarship deadline since it requires the Boston University Trustee scholarship essay. 

Merit-based scholarships for college are an excellent way to offset the high cost of college. Guidance and support can be especially helpful when applying for competitive merit-based scholarships for college such as the Boston Trustee Scholarship. CollegeAdvisor is here to support you throughout your journey, as you apply to merit-based scholarships, finalize your college list, and write your essays. If you’re keen to get into the school of your dreams with a merit-based scholarship, get in touch ! 

This article was written by Sarah Kaminski. If you want to get help with your college applications from CollegeAdvisor.com  Admissions Experts ,  register with CollegeAdvisor.com today.  Also, check out our other guides to  Merit-Based Scholarships  as you embark on your college application journey!

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How to Start a Scholarship Essay (With Examples)

Will Geiger is the co-founder of Scholarships360 and has a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. He is a former Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Kenyon College where he personally reviewed 10,000 admissions applications and essays. Will also managed the Kenyon College merit scholarship program and served on the financial aid appeals committee. He has also worked as an Associate Director of College Counseling at a high school in New Haven, Connecticut. Will earned his master’s in education from the University of Pennsylvania and received his undergraduate degree in history from Wake Forest University.

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Bill Jack has over a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. Since 2008, he has worked at Colby College, Wesleyan University, University of Maine at Farmington, and Bates College.

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

As an admissions officer, I reviewed thousands of essays for students seeking admission and scholarships. The essay is one of the most important parts of the scholarship application process–a strong essay can go a long way. However, with so much competition, it is important for your scholarship essay to stand out. That’s why it’s important for you to start a scholarship essay off right!

There are some very simple things that you can do to ensure that your essay is engaging from the very first sentence. In fact, beginning your essay with an exciting opening is one of the most important things you can do, because it will immediately distinguish your essay from the others. 

Keep on reading to learn more about how you can nail the very first sentence and start your essay off right!

Engage the reader with the first sentence

No matter what type of essay you are writing, you will want to ensure that the very first line grabs the attention of the reader. One of the biggest mistakes that students make when starting their essay is simply restating the prompt. This is bland and boring. 

Now, you might be wondering, “how do I engage the reader with the very first line of my essay?”. The good news is that there are several ways that you can do this that are very simple to do. 

Related:  How to answer scholarship essay questions about your career goals

Begin with dialogue

First, you could begin your essay with conversation. This can be an interesting and unexpected way to start your scholarship essay. Maybe someone asked you an unexpected question? Perhaps you were having an interesting conversation with a friend or family member? Either way, dialogue can be a powerful tool to start your essay.

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Put the reader in your shoes.

Alternatively, you can choose to start your essay by placing the reader right in your shoes and show them something from your life. Appeal to the senses and show the reader what you see, hear, smell, or taste. These specific details will help your essay come to life and make it even more memorable. 

Also recommended: What’s the best scholarship essay format?

Scholarship essay introduction example

Next,  we’ll look at a specific example of how you can open up your essay. Let’s say you are applying for the Questbridge scholarship program . One of the essays that you will be asked is:

We are interested in learning more about you and the context in which you have grown up, formed your aspirations, and accomplished your academic successes. Please describe the factors and challenges that have most influenced you. How are they shaping your future aspirations?

You might be tempted to rephrase the question and start your essay with something like:

“I have grown up in a rural context and this has formed my aspirations and allowed me to accomplish academic success…”

This is generic and will not engage your reader at all. 

Instead, what if you started off your essay with something like this:

“I look outside my bedroom window and see Henry, my favorite chicken, pecking at something in the dirt.” 

Makes a big difference, right? As a reader, you are probably wondering: why does this person have chickens outside their bedroom window? Why did they name this particular chicken Henry?

See also: Here are our top writing & essay scholarships for students!

Keep the ending of your essay in mind as you write the opening

While crafting your opening, be open to ideas about how to close your essay. There is no need to stress about the ending now, but being mindful of effective ways to end an essay is always a good idea. Say you are opening your scholarship essay with Henry the chicken. Is there a way for Henry to make an impactful appearance at the end of the essay to close things out in a way that perfectly wraps everything up? The key is for the essay ending to be meaningful and memorable for the reader. 

Don’t miss: Our free scholarship search tool

If you can’t think of a “wow” scholarship essay beginning, keep writing!

Sometimes, we know what we want to say, point by point, but we are not ready to be creative when it comes to opening an essay. In that case, keep writing! There is always the option of going back and crafting an engaging opening after your essay is written. Simply write your main idea where the first paragraph would be to guide you as you write. After, go back when your creative juices are flowing, and craft the amazing opening (and closing) that your scholarship essay deserves!

Final thoughts

As shown, there are many questions that we as readers will have after reading an engaging essay opening such as the one just shared; We want to learn more about the student who is writing this essay. After all, as a writer trying to stand out in a pile of essays, that is our main goal. 

We hope that you have a better understanding of how to start a scholarship essay so you can maximize your chances of winning scholarships!

Additional resources

Scholarships360 is the go-to for all things college admissions and scholarships! Wondering how to write a 250 word essay and how to write a 500 word essay ? Curious how to write an essay about yourself ? Wow, do we have the resources to help! Additionally, check out our free scholarship search tool to help you finance your college education. Best of luck to you and your future endeavors! 

Key Takeaways

• The first sentence of the essay is what makes the reader want to continue reading 
• Engage the reader by appealing to the senses
• Create a sense of wonder in your essay, making the reader want to learn more about you
• Keep the ending of the essay in mind as you craft the beginning

Frequently asked questions about how to start a scholarship essay

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Home — Application Essay — Scholarship — Boston University Trustee Scholarship

Boston University Trustee Scholarship

• University: Boston University

About this sample

Words: 738 |

Published: May 26, 2023

Words: 738 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

The 21st century has an unrestricted admittance for innovations in any diverse field of science which can positively upgrade the betterment of humankind in addition to society. Among other Universities Boston University has a significant graduate taught programs relative to the ongoing developments and innovations in healthcare technology. I am going to reveal how this Boston University Trustee Scholarship can benefit me, also in this essay I share examples why Boston University is the best place for my studies as its good research facilities and solid experienced faculty and research members will be the ideal place to intensify my comprehension and training in my interest field and to accomplish my future goals.

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I believe that I am a suitable applicant for this program due to the fascination and curiosity to learn in various areas particularly in “Molecular & Cell Biology, Genetic engineering and Microbiology”. This appetite to learn the respective modules provided me with a firm resolution applying for Biological & Biomolecular science course in your university which can take me a step closer to pursue in research works. I sternly believe that one must have strong practical and theoretical knowledge to excel in their relevant area. This course provides core laboratory research and taught modules on several topics combined with research skills hence I immovably trust that this field has opened up for good researchers with incredible opportunities in scholastics likewise has a wide scope for employment.

Why should the panel select me for this scholarship? I have presented paper and posters of my own research work in many National and International conferences. I also won the 2nd prize for presenting a poster on Extraction & Characterization of Carotenoid and Anthocyanin pigments from medicinal plants in 'National Conference on Applied Science & Engineering for Health and Environment' 2017'. And I have also been involved in various extracurricular activities volunteering in International Conference on Bioengineering on Health and Environment, ICBHE’18 and took part as one of the coordinating members in 2nd National Level Workshop on In-vitro & In-silico Approaches in Screening of Phytochemicals and its Bioactivity Studies organised by our institution.

I was one of the co-authors in a paper published recently in Rasayan journal of chemistry, Volume 12, Number 1, Jan - March 2019 on the topic - extraction, characterization and invitro bioactivity evaluation of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins and tannins of Cassia alata, Thespesia populnea, Euphorbia hirta AND Wrightia tinctoria.

As I was resolved to seek my profession in significant towards research I completed my undergraduate degree in Biotechnology I trust that graduate this scholarship will help me with my career goals. Moreover, it will be beneficial in Biomolecular science studies. My definite objective would be employing the aptitudes I get through the postgraduate qualification favourable to research and contribute something meaningful in my field of interest and I would be grateful if given with possible scholarship to concede into the Master’s program in your university

Boston University is a global leader and has a reputation for research and study with funding opportunities. Being one of the top in educational advancement, ongoing research developments students who pursue in Boston University have a wide opportunity in several areas of research and continuing their career path various companies and industries. Biomolecular science has an imperative role in these days interconnecting one way or the other to the ongoing innovations in healthcare and furthermore, a rigorous core study offering students who are an aspect to explore the essential principles from several disciplines. This course module will greatly help me to gain knowledge to continue my career path in research.

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If I was awarded this global excellence scholarship I make sure I would keep being persevering and dedicated and shall strain my every nerve to bring out the best out of me. My department faculty have praised me that I have great interpersonal and time management skills. I perceive that as an ambassador these skills are most important and also I may offer a chance to meet students and visitors to give information on a student perspective about the course and other relevant knowledge and facilities in the university. I strongly trust that my leadership skill helps me to achieve reasonable tasks within this role. And this role will also assist me to develop my professional and personal skills . I hope you find me to be a deserving candidate for awarding the scholarship and I would be thankful if provided me with this global excellence scholarship.

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Trustee Scholarship

Trustee scholarship qualifications.

The Trustee Scholarship selection process requires participation in one of two Trustee Scholarship Events, offered Th ursday-Friday , January 25-26 and Thursday-Friday, February 8-9 .  You and a maximum of two parents or guests are invited to meet the selection committee, university leaders and faculty members in your area(s) of interest.  Please make plans to arrive on Thursday evening from 4-5 p.m. for check-in, followed by a welcome dinner and reception. Also, you’ll spend your entire day with us on Friday for your interview and academic appointments.  Professional attire is required for your interview only.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at  [email protected]  or reach out to your  Counselor  directly.

To be eligible for the Trustee Scholarship, you must meet the following criteria:

• Have a 31 or higher ACT composite score or super score, 1390 or higher SAT combined Critical Reading and Math score or 100 or higher composite CLT score
• Have a 3.5 high school grade point average (based on 4.0)
• Complete the Trustee Scholarship application and submit all required items no later than Monday, January 8, 2024
• Be a first-time college student excluding CLEP, Advanced Placement credit and dual/concurrent enrollment credits
• Be officially accepted to Harding University before your interview

Once awarded, to remain eligible for the scholarship, Trustee Scholars must meet the following criteria:

• Be enrolled full-time (12 hrs. minimum)
• Maintain a 3.25 cumulative GPA
• Live on campus in a residence hall or apartment
• Accept membership and participate as an Honors Scholar in the Honors College.

The Trustee Scholarship is valid for a maximum of eight semesters of undergraduate tuition and may not be combined with other Harding-funded scholarships or discounts.

Notifications of scholarship decisions will be made on or before March 1, and students must accept awards on or before April 1.

TRUSTEE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

All applicants for the Trustee Scholarship will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

Academic Excellence : Beyond performing well on exams and in classes, the applicant demonstrates intellectual curiosity and a commitment to learning. Further, the applicant envisions how they can use their knowledge to benefit others.

Mission-Driven Focus to Vocation : The applicant has reflected on how their faith in Christ compels them to pursue a specific purpose in life. Even if the applicant is undecided on their specific major or eventual profession, they reflect on how their career pursuits or explorations are aligned with the overarching mission of Christ.

Contribution to Harding : The applicant can describe their vision for how they can contribute to the Harding community through participation, service, and leadership during their time as a student.

Resilience amid Adverse Experiences : The applicant demonstrates an awareness of how they have grown from challenging life experiences. In moments where the applicant encountered adversity, they demonstrated both persistence toward achieving their goals and compassion toward self and others. 

Applicants will have the opportunity to demonstrate how they meet the criteria through the application process. The application for the Trustee Scholarship consists of the following components:

Resumé : The applicant should submit a resumé that lists prior experiences in school, church, or other aspects of community involvement that help them speak to the four criteria of the scholarship. Specifically, they should include:

• Any formal information about their participation in their high school preparation.
• Any relevant extra-curricular or co-curricular experiences.
• Any relevant volunteer services afforded through church, school, or other community involvement.
• Any relevant work experience.

The resumé must be no more than one page, single-spaced, with a minimum font size of 11 point (Times New Roman) or 10 points (Arial). If the resumé exceeds these limits in any way, it will not be reviewed.

Letters of Recommendation : The applicant should request three letters of recommendation from those who can speak to how the applicant meets any scholarship criteria. We understand that a single letter may only address one or two criteria, and we encourage applicants to ask for letters from three individuals who can, as a whole, speak to all of the criteria for the scholarship. 

The letters must be no more than two pages, single-spaced. If a letter exceeds these limits in any way, it will not be reviewed. Recommendation letters may be sent directly to the applicant for submission.

Statement of Purpose : The applicant shall produce a statement that addresses their overarching purpose in pursuing an education at Harding University and addresses how they demonstrate the  four criteria for the scholarship. A high-quality statement would point to specific, personal examples from the applicant’s lived experiences that support their statements.

The statement should be written as a cohesive, singular essay (double-spaced), ranging from 750 to 1000 words. The essay must be originally composed by the applicant in their own words. While we encourage the applicant to seek feedback in constructing the essay, another individual, ChatGPT, or other AI-powered software may not generate any written statement in the essay.

Interview : Applicants will participate in an interview with two interviewers. In this interview, they should prepare to speak about how they demonstrate the scholarship criteria.  Dress for the interview will be traditional business attire, and guidance for dress may be found here: https://www.liveabout.com/ what-is-business-attire- 1918075

Submission : All application components must be submitted no later than midnight on Monday, January 8, 2024. All items must be saved as a PDF, attached to an email, and sent to [email protected] . All items must be submitted in one email. Please include “Trustee:”, your full name and date of birth in the subject line (i.e. Trustee: John Smith 01/01/2005). 

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