In this episode of our Essay Mini Series, hosts Nicole and Amanda dive deep into the “Community” essay and what these prompts are really asking admissions officers want to know. They break down the two core questions behind the essay: How has this community shaped who you are, and how will that relationship carry forward into your time at their university?

Nicole and Amanda discuss how broadly “community” can be defined—from teams, classes, neighborhoods, cultural identities, and online spaces to less obvious groups like being an only child or navigating overlapping identities. They emphasize the importance of choosing a community where you had real involvement and impact, rather than one you simply observed.

The episode also highlights common mistakes students make, such as focusing too much on accomplishments, over-describing the community, repeating content from other essays, or sharing details that don’t actually reveal anything meaningful about the writer. Nicole and Amanda explain how to keep the focus on personal growth, contribution, and reflection.

Finally, they address prompts that ask about future contributions—offering guidance on how to discuss values, specific experiences, and realistic ways students might engage on campus without falling into overused or vague claims.

Whether you’re struggling to define your community or trying to figure out how to show impact and growth, this episode will help you craft a thoughtful, intentional, and authentic “Community” essay.