University of Pennsylvania Essay Prompts

Are you looking to apply to the University of Pennsylvania and are unsure how to approach writing the supplemental essays? Look no further, as this post is here to provide you with their essay prompts and some tips on how to answer each question effectively. See the tips below to ensure you target all aspects of the question adequately in your essays! You will need to include 2 essays as part of your application - one in response to general prompts for all applicants, and one in response to a school-specific prompt depending on the School or Faculty you are applying to.

University of Pennsylvania General Essay Prompts 

Only answer 1 out of the 2 following prompts 

Write a short thank-you note to someone you have not yet thanked and would like to acknowledge. (We encourage you to share this note with that person, if possible, and reflect on the experience!) (150-200 words)

• Express gratitude for their actions or kindness.

• Acknowledge the impact their actions had on you.

• Share specific details about why you are thankful.

• Reflect on the experience and how it made you feel.

• Express a desire to stay connected or offer help in return, if appropriate.

How will you explore community at Penn? Consider how Penn will help shape your perspective, and how your experiences and perspective will help shape Penn. (150-200 words)

• Explain if there are any campus clubs and organizations that align with your interests and values.

• Discuss how you can participate in community service and outreach programs to connect with other students.

• Talk about how collaboration with classmates on group projects and study groups builds relationships.

• Consider how the resources available will help you have a fruitful experience at university. 

• Embrace opportunities for personal growth and understanding through interactions with others.

University of Pennsylvania School-Specific Prompts

School of Nursing

Penn Nursing intends to meet the health needs of society in a global and multicultural world by preparing its students to impact healthcare by advancing science and promoting equity. What do you think this means for the future of nursing, and how do you see yourself contributing to our mission of promoting equity in healthcare? (150-200 words)

• Begin by explaining the mission statement of Penn Nursing, emphasizing the importance of meeting health needs in a global and multicultural world, advancing science, and promoting equity in healthcare.

• Discuss how these goals align with the evolving role of nursing in society. Mention the increasing complexity of healthcare, the need for evidence-based practice, and the importance of addressing health disparities.

• Describe how you plan to contribute to these goals. This could include your interest in research, your commitment to social justice and healthcare equity, or your desire to work with diverse populations.

• Provide examples of how you have already demonstrated your commitment to these values. This could include volunteer work, academic projects, or personal experiences that have shaped your perspective.

• Conclude by reiterating your commitment to Penn Nursing's mission and expressing your enthusiasm for contributing to the future of nursing.

College of Arts and Sciences

The flexible structure of The College of Arts and Sciences’ curriculum is designed to inspire exploration, foster connections, and help you create a path of study through general education courses and a major. What are you curious about and how would you take advantage of opportunities in the arts and sciences? (150-200 words)

• Mention specific areas of interest or questions you have within the arts and sciences.

• Discuss how you would use the flexible structure to explore these interests.

• Describe how you would connect different disciplines or interests within the curriculum.

• Outline a potential path of study, including general education courses and your intended major.

• Mention specific opportunities at Penn, such as research, internships, or study abroad programs, that you would take advantage of.

• Explain how you would integrate your studies in the arts and sciences with your overall academic and career goals.

The Wharton School

Wharton prepares its students to make an impact by applying business methods and economic theory to real-world problems, including economic, political, and social issues.  Please reflect on a current issue of importance to you and share how you hope a Wharton education would help you to explore it.  (150-200 words)

• Identify a specific economic, political, or social issue that is important to you (e.g., climate change, income inequality, healthcare access).

• Explain how business methods and economic theory could be applied to address this issue (e.g., sustainable business practices to combat climate change, economic policies to reduce income inequality, healthcare management strategies to improve access).

• Describe the potential impact of addressing this issue using business and economic principles.

• Discuss how a Wharton education would provide you with the skills and knowledge to explore this issue in depth (e.g., through coursework, case studies, and access to experts in the field).

• Explain how exploring this issue at Wharton would contribute to your personal and professional growth.

School of Engineering and Applied Science

Penn Engineering prepares its students to become leaders in technology, by combining a strong foundation in the natural sciences and mathematics, exploration in the liberal arts, and depth of study in focused disciplinary majors. Please share how you hope to explore your engineering interests at Penn. (150-200 words)

• Describe your specific interests within engineering (e.g., robotics, sustainable energy, biomedical devices).

• Explain how a strong foundation in these areas will support your engineering pursuits.

• Discuss how exploring liberal arts subjects will broaden your perspective and complement your engineering studies.

• Mention the engineering majors you are interested in and how you plan to delve deeply into your chosen field.

• Highlight any interdisciplinary programs or initiatives at Penn that you are interested in pursuing.

• Share your interest in gaining practical, hands-on experience through research, internships, or projects.

• Explain how your exploration of engineering at Penn aligns with your long-term academic and career goals.

We hope that this guide has helped you start planning and writing your essay prompts. Good luck with your applications!