Harvard Essays

Will Theondi - Computer Science, Harvard 2015

Acceptance: Harvard

Prompt: "Personal Essay - If you'd like, write whatever you'd like."

The piece focuses on the applicant's relationship with Kim Grant, a tennis coach and former professional athlete. The writer describes how Kim's discipline and dedication -- forged through years of competitive tennis -- inspired them to develop stronger work habits and purpose-driven action.

Key passage: "I do not grant loyalty freely, but when I grant it, I give it completely. Kim has been my tennis coach, and I am thankful for it; but Kim has also been my mentor, my role model -- and I am forever grateful for it."

The essay concludes with the applicant's reflection on how the "dedication, respect for work, and purpose in action" learned through tennis continues to influence their current pursuits, including school service work and academic focus.

John Smith - EECS/English Literature, MIT 2014

Acceptances: Harvard, Stanford, MIT

Harvard supplemental essay.