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Wake Forest University

Winston-Salem, NC

Main Essay

Choose 1 of 7 prompts. 650-word limit.

Prompt 1650 words

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

Prompt 2650 words

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Prompt 3650 words

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea important to you or others. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Prompt 4650 words

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Prompt 5650 words

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Prompt 6650 words

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Prompt 7650 words

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Supplement Essays — Part 1

Optional. You are invited to answer any, all, or none of the following optional short response prompts.

Prompt 1

List five books you've read that intrigued you. (Include the title, author, and whether it was required or not)

Prompt 2

Give us your Top Ten list. (The choice of theme is yours.)

Supplement Essays — Part 2

Optional. You are invited to answer any, all, or none of the following optional essay prompts.

Prompt 1150 words

Tell us what piques your intellectual curiosity or has helped you understand the world's complexity. This can include a work you've read, a project you've completed for a class, and even co-curricular activities in which you have been involved.

Prompt 2300 words

Dr. Maya Angelou, renowned author, poet, civil-rights activist, and former Wake Forest University Reynolds Professor of American Studies, inspired others to celebrate their identities and to honor each person's dignity. Choose one of Dr. Angelou's powerful quotes. How does this quote relate to your lived experience or reflect how you plan to contribute to the Wake Forest community?

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