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3 Strong Reed College Essay Examples

Reed College is a liberal arts college in Portland that heavily emphasizes independent inquiry, independent art, and independent political activism: essentially, an “indie” Mecca. Since the 1960s, Reed has gained a reputation as a crucible for counterculture movements and alternative lifestyles. 

That said, Reed’s programs definitely stress the “thinker” portion of “free-thinker.” Reed values academic rigor, even if it de-emphasizes traditionalist measures like grades and rank. Notably, its expansive core curriculum and mandatory senior thesis showcase how far Reed pushes its student intellectuals. A high number of Reed graduates end up pursuing careers in academia, theory, and scholarship. 

This push-and-pull of creativity and discipline, fun and grind, tradition and iconoclasm is the soul of Reed. Call it the Reed Balance . And this concept will be the most important thing to keep in mind while writing your Reed essay. 

In this post, we’ll share three essays real students have submitted to Reed and explain what each essay did well and where each could improve. The hope is that looking at these examples will give you inspiration to help you craft your Reed response.

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. 

Essay Example #1

Prompt: For one week at the end of January, Reed students upend the traditional classroom hierarchy and teach classes about any topic they love, academic or otherwise. This week is known as Paideia after the Greek term signifying “education” – the complete education of mind, body and spirit. What would you teach that would contribute to the Reed community? (200-500 words)

“No! Make it stop! Get me out!” My 5-year-old self waved my arms frantically in front of my face in the darkened movie theater. Swarms of beetles scurried across the screen, their tiny forms flying straight at me. Their stark coloration patterns and blown-up eyes dominated my field of vision, their antennae whiskering toward my vulnerable being. To the understanding of my fellow movie-watchers frustrated at this outburst, this was my first 4-D movie experience, a memory ingrained into my being so potently that I still flinch at the sight of a harmless roach scuttling along my family’s patio floor outside. And don’t get me started on the time I woke up to a cricket sleeping on my arm. Oh man, those shrieks are still buried in the back of my mind. 

We are familiar with meat and vegetables as sources of our nutrition, but it seems that such a concept does not apply to the class of animals that make up 80% of the world’s total animal population. But with the rise of greater concern for where our food comes from, many sustainability enthusiasts have turned to these pests as a nutrition source. Not only are they high in protein, but they’re everywhere . It’s time for me to face my fears and the inevitable truth: bug farming is on the horizon. 

For my Paideia “It’s a Bug’s Life,” these little critters take center stage in an integrated lecture/hands-on seminar style focused on growing awareness for food sustainability and learning to cook savory bug-riddled meals. Recipes from Chef Hugo Ortega’s Mescal Worm Tacos (Houston, Texas) to Chef Cesar Moreno’s Grasshopper Almond Flour Cake (New York City, New York) will be dissected and recreated in an attempt to understand the insect harvesting process and proper (and sanitary!) methods of preparation. I hope that this class ultimately aids in breaking the Western stigma against the consumption of our fellow fuzzy creatures (which is already practiced in more than half of the world by population), as well as provide a platform for exploring sustainable food sourcing and consumption practices. 

Gone are the days where I flinch at the flutter of an insect’s wings. Bon appetit ! Your cuisine des petites bêtes (see: dish of little beasts) has been served. 

What the Essay Did Well

This essay checks off many boxes: there is a unique topic that reflects a broader social issue, the student’s enthusiasm comes across, and it is a fun and entertaining read!

The point of a Paideia is so teach about something you love, but to demonstrate to the Reed admissions officers that you academically inclined and socially conscious, you need to bring some weight to your course to show the impact it would have. This student does that beautifully by connecting a fun fascination with eating bugs to the global issues of sustainable farming and food insecurity. Citing statistics and referencing Western bias and nutrition concerns demonstrate this student’s level of knowledge about a larger issue that they hope to address with their class.

Another positive is the level of enthusiasm this student conveys for the topic through their narrative and emotions. In fact, their  enthusiasm for bug food (“ savory !” “ Bon appetit! ”) comes across as more rewarding because they begin with the contrasting emotions of fear (“ swarms ,” “ shrieks ”). Including the anecdote at the beginning allows the reader to see the student’s emotional maturity grow over time, making their interest in eating bugs all the more commendable.

From the first line to the last, this student injects plenty of their personality, giving the reader an amusing essay. They didn’t have to include an anecdote about their history with bugs, but by including the fears and actions of a young child, the student comes to life. The fun continues with a callback to nostalgia by naming their course “It’s a Bug’s Life.” Additionally, all of the student’s interjections and use of French bring a light-hearted, casual energy to the essay, making it much more enjoyable to read.

What Could Be Improved

Yes, this essay did a good job, but no essay is perfect! There are a couple of ways this essay could be honed in more.

Most importantly, we’d recommend you include more academic materials than this example essay. Imagine how much more intellectual the course would be with a documentary on the nutritive benefits of insects, a study of Western stigmas against eating insects, and maybe some articles on the need for more global protein sources. This would also show admissions readers that the applicant is capable of doing sound research. 

We also recommend more structure: Paideia, after all, is a weeklong learning festival, so a proper syllabus should lay out plans for each day. Theming readings and assigning them to certain days/themes would show a lot of forethought and powers of organization. 

Essay Example #2

Under the setting winter sun, I rode my horse across the meadow while the snow began to thicken. Upon receiving a prized, famous axe from my close friend Ulfric, he requested that I return to a metropolitan city to converse with members who agreed with us regarding the status of the political landscape within our country in order to join their movement. Suddenly, though, I was knocked off my horse by a blow from my left. I unsheathed my weapon while hearing shouts from every direction. I lept off my horse and pulled my sword back to make the first blow, but just as I…

“Dinner!” my dad swept me out of my absorption with what, unfortunately, was not an exorbitantly unique experience from real life, but rather “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim,” an open world action video game within a fictional universe. I was beginning the quest “Joining the Legion” which would solidify my role as a supporter of the Empire and ban me from joining the rebellion. 

As I sat down to eat my beef with broccoli, the recent quest was still on my mind. Making the decision as to whether or not I ought to join the rebellion or defend the Imperial Legion felt extremely rushed, and after being brutally attacked, I wondered if I made the right one. I realized that I required a much more nuanced look at the actuality of the issue’s development to make an educated decision, both for fascinating gameplay and political context. Delving into online resources, I gradually understood the background of the war, but I also realized how complex and multifaceted the history of the game was. The 9 major cities, countless towns and settlements, 273 quests, and six historical periods ensure there is never a dull moment, but also present the ideal means through which to examine complex historical developments, movements, and periods of an entire Empire.

So, I would teach a history of Skyrim course, also known as “Nords, Daedras, Alchemy and Everything In Between”. Not only would this multifaceted understanding of the background to major questlines be indispensable to successful game play, but the skills required to understand the development and effects of diverse historical developments could be utilized for other history and social science courses. Immersing oneself directly in the material through gameplay would provide a unique perspective on the events at hand which would be supplemented by the history-course-like style of the class. With countless online materials ranging from the Elder Scrolls Wiki to Gamepedia and, of course, Reddit, there would be no shortage of resources to utilize for assignments. 

Thus, although my experience of nearly being knocked off my horse outside the gates of Whiterun was not necessarily real, the introspection and research which this experience prompted were. I can’t wait to join Reed’s campus next year and share my experience as a member of the Imperial Legion with the diverse Nords, Redguards, and Khajit around me. 

Wow! This essay starts with a captivating description of what playing Skyrim is like, setting us up for the journey the rest of the essay takes us on. The introductory paragraph is a fabulous example of what we mean when we say show don’t tell. The reader becomes so swept up in the action of the game that when the essay breaks its momentum with the interjection of “ Dinner! ” we feel the same sense of disappointment and interruption as the student.

We see this student’s passion for this video game very clearly in this essay. From the way they speak about the quests their character goes on as personal missions (“ I was beginning the quest “Joining the Legion” which would solidify my role as a supporter of the Empire and ban me from joining the rebellion “) to their description of the intricacies of their thought-process consuming their mind during dinner, the reader appreciates just how meaningful this topic is. 

Although this student is choosing a video game for their Paideia, a topic which could easily be considered trivial by admissions officers, they avoid that by explaining real skills they have acquired through playing. This sentence is a nice admission from the student that shows their critical thinking and ability to understand the importance in things considered puerile: “ A lthough my experience of nearly being knocked off my horse outside the gates of Whiterun was not necessarily real, the introspection and research which this experience prompted were. ” If you can demonstrate your appreciation for things beyond your Paideia topic, you can pretty much pick whatever you want.

The biggest issue with this essay is the imbalance between setting up Skyrim and the student’s passion and the content of the course. There was only one paragraph that focused on the student’s Paideia, and even then, it wasn’t as detailed as it could have been.

These are just a few ways this student could have elaborated on their course in greater detail:

• They say “ historical developments could be utilized for other history and social science courses” so they could describe two or three historical references in the game and connect them to real courses at Reed
• They describe a “ history-course-like style of the class ” so they could map out the different time periods they will cover
• They reference “ o nline materials ranging from the Elder Scrolls Wiki to Gamepedia and, of course, Reddit ” but it would have been nice to include real books that address the topics covered in the game to show a deeper understanding of the real-world implications rather than fan material
• They mention having “ assignments ” but it would be better if they included sample essay prompts, class activities, or a final project

Essay Example #3

What’s Up With Those Socks?: A Nalbinding Primer

The ancient textile technique nalbinding goes by many names: naelbinding, nålbinding, cross-knit looping, and knotless netting. All of these terms refer to what is essentially the same practice. In many cases, it seems there are more names for the technique than there are useful tutorials available online. Representation of the technique is just as sparse in academia. Often, studies of the craft are more concerned with preserving and analyzing ancient textile samples rather than preserving and analyzing the technique as it is practiced today. As a result, nalbinding has faded into obscurity in the past eight or so centuries and is now considered an endangered craft. If it is not passed on, the craft could die out within a few generations. 

In this course, students will start with an abridged history of nalbinding around the world, from its origins with bast fibers to its present dwindling popularity. Then, students will begin practical work with a small pouch made using the York stitch. Once students have worked with York stitch for a while, they will be introduced to the slightly more complex Oslo stitch as well as basic shaping techniques, through a pair of simple wristwarmers. In the remaining time, students are free to explore other projects and applications. Potential topics for this time include mathematic applications, creating flat textiles, working on traditional mittens, or colorwork. 

Learning to nalbind will afford Reedies all the benefits of learning a craft. Its simplicity makes it a convenient, and productive, fidget for when you can’t keep your hands still. The repetition, much like knitting and crochet, can take on an almost meditative quality as muscle memory takes over from step-by-step planning. Nalbinding can also provide an inroad for Reedies to explore global indigenous and prehistoric cultures through their crafts, as well as track the histories of knitting and crochet. The technique also provides a creative outlet on the cheap, as all that’s needed is a darning needle and cotton yarn.

Sample lectures and practical sessions:

Vikings, Egyptians, and the Nazca: A Global Overview of Nalbinding and Related Techniques

A Humble Tube: Starting with the York Stitch

Colors, Shapes, and Stitches, Oh My!: Adding Flair to a Project

Required reading/viewing: 

“Nålbinding: A Short History of an Ancient Craft” by Penelope Hemingway

“Nalbinding Socks from Late Roman Egypt (3rd-7th CE)” video from the Royal Ontario Museum

“The Complexities of Cross Looping” by Elena Phipps

Optional reference material: Stitch tutorials on en.neulakintaat.fi

This essay draws its strength from how thought-out the Paideia course is. From describing the history of nalbinding, to the types of stitches, to the connections with other classes, this student treated their passion with the seriousness and respect a Reed professor gives to their courses. Simultaneously, this student flexes the depth of knowledge they have on this unique craft and teaches the reader the basics of nalbinding—living up to the name of the course (“ A Nalbinding Primer “).

Especially when you are focusing on a niche topic, it is important to include as many practical details as you can to help the admissions officers reading your essay grasp concepts they are possibly only just learning about. Telling us the different names (“ naelbinding, nålbinding, cross-knit looping, and knotless netting”) and types of stitches (“ York ” and “ Oslo “) helps to familiarize the reader with nalbinding.

The student also does a good job of showing us why we should care about this obscure topic. They dedicate an entire paragraph to the “so what?”; providing multiple benefits for students from the “ meditative quality ” to the ability to “ explore global indigenous and prehistoric cultures ” to a “ creative outlet on the cheap “!

Perhaps the best way this student demonstrates the knowledge and care they will bring to their Paideia is through the carefully curated list of lectures and readings. This is an excellent tactic for this essay! Including the names of lesson plans is a quick way to demonstrate your creativity and the key aspects of your topic, while listing readings shows the level of research you have conducted. If you are going to the lengths of drafting lectures, assignments, or activities for your class, it signals just how excited you are at the prospect of sharing your passion with others.

While this essay is good, there are a couple of tweaks and additions that could be beneficial. The first would be to clean up the lectures and readings at the end. Just adding bullet points and italics for the titles of the readings would give the end of the essay a more aesthetic look. Creating variation for the eye helps the reader quickly pick up on changes, so having indented bullets to group together the lessons and readings would be an easy change that would have a large impact.

The other thing we would like to see this essay include is an explanation about why this student cares about nalbinding. They do a very nice job explaining its significance to society and the Reed community, but they never share what got them into nalbinding in the first place or why they are choosing this topic over any of their other passions. You aren’t explicitly asked to demonstrate the importance of your course subject to you, but great essay will do so. Don’t forget this is still a college essay: take every opportunity you get to share information about yourself with admissions officers! 

Where to Get Your Reed College Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your Reed College 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. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

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Reed College’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Diversity essay.

How might aspects of your identity positively influence the living and learning community at Reed?

Create a Class Short Response

For one week at the end of January, Reed students upend the traditional classroom hierarchy and teach classes about any topic they love, academic or otherwise. This week is known as Paideia after the Greek term signifying “education” – the complete education of mind, body and spirit. What would you teach that would contribute to the Reed community?

Common App Personal Essay

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

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.

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?

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

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?

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

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?

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.

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

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How to Respond to the 2023-2024 Reed College Supplemental Essay Prompts

Cait Williams is a Content Writer at Scholarships360. Cait recently graduated from Ohio University with a degree in Journalism and Strategic Communications. During her time at OU, was active in the outdoor recreation community.

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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.

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If you want to know how to best respond to the Reed College supplemental essay prompts, look no further–you’re in the right place! While there is only one essay prompt, you’ll need to share your interests as you connect to Reed’s mission and vision. So, before we jump in, let’s take a look at what defines Reed College and you!

An introduction to Reed College 

Reed College is a small liberal arts and sciences college located in Southeast Portland, Oregon. Since opening in 1908, Reed has become known as one of the top intellectual universities in the United States. They focus on offering their students small conference style meetings where students engage with each other and their professors. 

One thing Reed offers prospective students is the opportunity to hear from its alumni. On Reed’s website, they have several testimonies from graduates. These stories are a great way to see if you might fit in as a “Reedie.” Take a look at their website to read about their academic standards, personal testimonies and their commitment to diversity and inclusion. 

Also see: How to write about yourself

Essay prompt

For one week at the end of January, Reed students upend the traditional classroom hierarchy and teach classes about any topic they love, academic or otherwise. This week is known as Paideia after the Greek term signifying “education” – the complete education of mind, body and spirit. What would you teach that would contribute to the Reed community? (500 Words)

First off, what a fun essay prompt and a really cool thing to hear that their college does? There is so much room in this question to share who you are, what you love and how you will add to the Reed Community. 

Let’s start with the first question. What would you teach? While this question is giving you a lot of creative freedom, you’ll still want to keep a few parameters in mind when you answer this. They want to hear about a topic that will contribute to their community. So, while learning about the extremely detailed world of Harry Potter might be really interesting to you and others, there needs to be a way in which that can be learned from that contributes to the community around you. Can we learn about xenophobia and racism through specific lessons from Harry Potter?

The above example is just one idea to show you the connection that they want you to make between your topic and the bigger picture of improving the world around you. There are some questions below to read through that might help get the ideas flowing in your head.

Questions to consider

• What topics do you love, academic or otherwise?
• How have you grown through your interests?
• What topic do you think more people should know about? Why?

Hopefully, if you take a few minutes to think through those questions, you’ll come up with some ideas. Maybe you love sports and want to teach a class about how sports can build our mental tenacity. Perhaps you volunteer a lot at home, and you want people to know more about how easy it is to find organizations to donate your time to. Or perhaps you’ve always loved cooking and you know a lot of college students haven’t ever had a chance to learn about cooking. 

There are no wrong answers to this question! Once you’ve come up with your topic and how it will improve the community, start to think about how your class would actually be structured. You do not have to come up with a whole syllabus and schedule, but there should be more to your essay than just that you think this topic is cool and it’ll teach people stuff. 

Come up with one required reading and a few lecture topic examples. Think about if there would be homework and what that would look like. When you begin to type your response, make sure you write it as an essay. You should mention your lecture ideas, homework assignments, and readings, but do so in an essay format.

Your paragraphs should be organized with a clear introduction of what you’re talking about, a good body and a clear conclusion as to why this class would improve the campus community. 

Additional resources

Reed College only has one essay question, meaning there is only one chance for you to show through writing what you will add to their college. While this article should give you a good idea about how to write your essay, your journey doesn’t end there. Once you’ve finished your Reed College supplemental essay, check out some of the articles below!

• 10 Tips for successful college applications
• How to end a scholarship essay in five steps
• How to answer the Common App essay prompts

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Love Reed: Writing the Reed College “Paideia” Essay Supplement

Written by Ian Brook Fisher on November 2nd, 2018

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Reed Adds New Identity-Based Essay Question to Writing Supplement for First-Year Applicants

By Declan Bradley

In early August, Quest reporters discovered from Reed’s Common App listing that the college had added a new essay prompt to the writing supplement section of its application. The new prompt — which reads, “How might aspects of your identity positively influence the living and learning community at Reed?” — marks the first significant change to the college’s writing supplement since 2015. While it will not replace the current Paideia question — which asks students to describe a class they would teach during Reed’s annual flipped classroom festival of learning — it will serve as the first question on the writing supplement, and the first thing students see during the writing process.

The new prompt is being formally announced by the college for the first time today, in a letter to the editors of the Quest from Dean of Admission Milyon Trulove, and, as of Wednesday night, still has not been acknowledged on the college’s website ( reed.edu/apply/guide-to-applying/first-year ), which continues to discuss the writing supplement exclusively in terms of the Paideia question. 

As a result, the Quest was only able to learn of the existence of this new prompt by viewing the college’s current Common Application listing. When contacted for comment on this story, Dean Trulove expressed his preference to also write a full letter to the editor, stressing the importance of, “consider[ing] the legal implications of what we say and express[ing] our values on diversity,” in breaking the news of the new prompt.

The move comes at a time when colleges across the country are working to adapt to the Supreme Court’s June decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Presidents and Fellows of Harvard College, which effectively outlawed affirmative action in the United States. Recent reporting by the New York Times called 2023, “the year of the identity-driven essay,” and found that more than a dozen highly selective colleges have either introduced or increased their focus on essays related to “identity” or “life experience” since 2022. 

However, colleges across the country that have chosen to introduce identity-based essays this year have done so in the midst of untested legal waters. While it is true that, in the majority opinion of the court, Chief Justice John Roberts wrote that, “Nothing in this opinion should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicant’s discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise,” he also wrote that, “universities may not simply establish through application essays or other means the regime we hold unlawful today.”

Allowing students to discuss the ways in which race and racism have affected their lives as individuals thus remains clearly permissible, but disaffected applicants could attempt to sue on the grounds that such essays simply reestablish affirmative action.

As the court wrote, “A benefit to a student who overcame racial discrimination, for example, must be tied to that student’s courage and determination. Or a benefit to a student whose heritage or culture motivated him or her to assume a leadership role or attain a particular goal must be tied to that student’s unique ability to contribute to the university. In other words, the student must be treated based on his or her experiences as an individual—not on the basis of race.”

When reached for comment by the Quest , Dean Trulove stated, “Our newest optional essay continues to serve as an entryway for students to share their lived experiences,” and reassured applicants that, “Students who don’t complete it won’t be penalized; it’s an opportunity to share more about their experiences.”

While the new prompt is optional — unlike the Paideia essay, which remains the only required part of Reed’s writing supplement — it will likely still have a significant effect on the consideration of applicants for the fall 2023 admissions cycle. In Reed’s most recent Common Data Set, which provides data on admissions considerations for the class of 2026, the college reported that it considered only three aspects of a student’s application “very important”: rigor of secondary school record, academic GPA, and the application essay. All other aspects of an application, including an interview, letters of recommendation, and others, were given less weight than those three components — although the Quest was not able to confirm if this will remain true for the class of ‘28 in time for publication.

This is a developing story and the Quest will continue to follow it in the coming weeks.

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about the author

Declan Bradley

Editor at The Reed College Quest

Programmer, writer, and aspiring data journalist, Declan is entering his second semester as an editor of the Quest excited to pursue new stories and new approaches to journalism. His experience includes four years at his high school paper and a summer mentorship with Julia Wolfe, Americas Graphics Editor at Reuters. His writing has appeared in Nightingale Magazine and been nationally recognized by the Associated Collegiate Press.

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Transfer Applicants

Interested in transferring to Reed? Join our mailing list for special transfer-focused events and more information about the transfer experience at Reed.

Join Our Mailing List

You are considered a transfer applicant if you have graduated from high school* (or the equivalent) and have done any of the following:

• Enrolled as a full-time or part-time student at an accredited institution of higher education (even if the term was not completed)
• Earned a minimum of six Reed units of allowable transfer credit (six Reed units are equivalent to 24 semester hours or 36 quarter hours of credit)
• Received financial aid at an accredited institution of higher education

*High school students graduating from dual-enrollment programs are not considered transfer applicants and should apply as first-year students.

Common Application

The Common Application is a consortium of more than 600 colleges and universities. Each year, over 3.5 million applications are submitted via the Common Application . When applying via the Common Application, students will be required to submit the Common Application, which includes a personal essay and a Reed writing supplement.

Transfer Application Requirements

Common application requirements.

If you have questions about fulfilling any of these requirements contact Associate Dean of Admission, Grant Sewell .

Important Dates for Transfer Applicants

*Applications submitted after March 1 will be considered on a space-available basis.

**Reed College expects you and your parents to assume the primary responsibility for your educational expenses; therefore, unless you are 26 years old or older, a ward of the court or both of your parents are deceased, you will be required to complete the parental income and asset portions of the CSS PROFILE to be considered for institutional financial aid.

Reed College Curriculum and Graduation Requirements

Fifteen of the 30 units required to graduate must be completed at Reed; Students without transfer credit equivalent to Reed’s Humanities 110 class may be required to take Humanities 110 or a combination of Reed’s humanities classes; Physical education credits (PE) may be transferred to fulfill Reed’s PE requirement.

Transfer Credit and Class Standing

Transfer credit is given a preliminary analysis upon admission. Transfer credit will not be given for

• Courses that cover work at a level below Reed’s introductory courses;
• Courses that are vocational, technical, or experiential in nature;
• Courses, or portions of courses, that teach general writing;
• Courses for which a grade below C- was earned.

The number of units approved for transfer credit determines class standing. In general, class standing can be estimated as

1–6 Reed units: first year 7–12 Reed units: second year 15+ Reed units: junior year***

***Junior class standing at Reed is granted only with the approval of the intended major department. Due to the structure of the junior year at Reed and the required junior qualifying exam, it is very difficult to transfer in as a junior.

The college allows for certain decisions on transfer credit and college requirements to be made on a case-by-case basis through a petition process. Each transfer student is assigned an academic adviser with whom to consult before registration. The adviser will help arrange the student’s program of study, taking into account the student’s previous college work, educational goals, and Reed’s requirements. During this consultation, transfers can ask if petitioning their credit evaluation or remaining Reed requirements is an option.

On-campus housing requests are due by June 15. Space on campus is limited, and housing requests will be considered in the order in which they are received.

What paperwork is required to apply as a transfer student?

What if i was home-schooled, the college i attended did not issue grades., as an international student, can i transfer, how do i reapply as a transfer applicant.

See above for the full list of requirements to apply as a transfer. The following items must be newly submitted for reapplication as a transfer student: 

• Common Application for Transfers
• Reed College Common Application Writing Supplement: “Paideia Essay” (if you are a transfer applicant not currently enrolled in college, upon completion of the “Paideia Essay” supplement you will be prompted to also submit a brief statement about what you have been doing since last enrolled in formal schooling). Both essays can also be emailed to [email protected] .
• Registrar’s Report from the most recent college attended (the form and instructions are available on the Common Application website)
• One new academic evaluation (this recommendation must come from a college instructor who did not submit a previous recommendation for you)

How will my credits transfer to Reed?

With an offer of admission to Reed College, you will receive a preliminary credit evaluation. Courses are evaluated in terms of their applicability toward a liberal
 arts degree. 


Please note that transfer credit will not be given for

• courses that cover work at a level below introductory courses at Reed;
• courses that are vocational, technical, or experiential in nature;
• courses, or portions of courses, that teach general writing skills;
• courses for which you received a grade below C-.

Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) test credit is limited to a maximum of eight Reed units and will be granted only upon receipt of an original AP score report. AP credits may not be used to fulfill college distribution requirements but will count toward the total number of units required for graduation.

We recommend that you keep your syllabi from previous courses. This will better prepare you to meet with the faculty in your chosen major to discuss which courses will count toward major requirements.

Can a compromise be reached?

What are the graduation requirements.

Of the 30 Reed units needed to graduate, at least 15 must be completed at Reed. The average course load at Reed is three to four units per semester. Reed graduates must fulfill general college requirements as well as major, departmental, and divisional requirements. Every standard major falls into a "division," which is a grouping of related departments. 



If admitted, the evaluation of transfer credit that you will receive in your admission packet will indicate how your previous work may be applied toward the general college requirements. To determine how the credits might be applied toward departmental and divisional requirements, you may need to speak with your faculty adviser and with the chair of your department and division.

What are the general requirements?

Humanities 110 is required of all first-year students and students who transfer with first-year standing but without transfer credit equivalent to Humanities 110. 



Students who transfer as sophomores or juniors without transfer credit equivalent to Humanities 110 may fulfill the humanities requirement by taking either Humanities 110, or, in lieu of Humanities 110, a combination of Humanities 210, 220, or 230, plus one additional unit from Group A or Group B.

Courses used to fulfill the humanities requirement may not be used to fulfill the Group A or B requirements. We do recommend taking Humanities 110, if at all possible; at Reed, it truly is the course upon which everything else builds.

Three semesters (six quarters) of physical education are required before graduation. Only one quarter of PE may be earned at a time. PE courses will transfer from other institutions.

Reed students must pass the junior qualifying exam before beginning a thesis in the senior year. The exam (known as the junior qual) is administered by each department near the end of the junior year. The objectives of the qual are to gauge students' mastery of their disciplines, to identify weaknesses in students' preparation for advanced study or thesis work in those disciplines, and to assist students in unifying their knowledge of a major field of study.

The senior thesis and oral examination are distinctive features of Reed education. The thesis is the sustained investigation of a carefully defined problem—experimental, critical, or creative—chosen from the major field. The thesis culminates with a final comprehensive two-hour oral review under the direction of the major department.

Where will my credits put me in the way of class standing?

In general, class standing can be estimated as follows:

• 1–6 Reed units: first-year student

• 7–12 Reed units: second-year student

• 15+ Reed units: junior standing (with departmental approval)

Remember: 1 Reed unit equals 4 semester or 6 quarter credit hours.

Can I transfer as a junior?

If you plan to transfer to Reed as a junior (with 15 or more Reed units), it is important to understand the structure of the junior year. All juniors take a junior qualifying exam in the second semester of that year. It is very difficult to transfer in as a junior and sit for the exam after only one semester of Reed College work. Therefore, if applying as a junior, keep in mind that an additional semester or two might be needed to prepare fully for advanced work in your department. 



When a credit evaluation is completed for someone applying for junior standing, that evaluation is sent to the department chair in the intended major. The chair will then assess which courses will satisfy departmental and divisional requirements. (Remember, they are doing this by looking over course descriptions and without the benefit of talking with you about each course.) The chair will also estimate how many semesters it may take you to complete your major requirements at Reed. When you arrive on campus for orientation, you will meet with your adviser, who will be better able to assess, in-depth, your preparation in your major.

Will I be advised?

Should i visit, where do transfer students live.

The Ultimate Guide to the Reed College Essay

In this article, we’ll be covering everything you need to know to write the Reed College essay.

Don’t let the school’s unconventional culture and laid-back environment fool you. Reed is a rather selective school. If you want to get accepted into Reed, you will need a strong high school profile. You’ll also need to know how to write the Reed College essay well, so as to stand out amongst the other students.

Reed boasts an average acceptance rate of 39%. For the class of 2024, the average high school GPA was 4.0. 68% of Reed students were in the top fifth of their high school class rank, and 43% were in the top tenth. 6% of students at Reed were Valedictorians at their high school.

You can find more info on their freshman profile here .

With that said, let’s cover a bit of the Reed College Essay Prompt and how to write it.

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Note: both the Reed College transfer application and regular admissions application have the same essay prompt.

For one week at the end of January, Reed students upend the traditional classroom hierarchy and teach classes about any topic they love, academic or otherwise. This week is known as  Paideia  after the Greek term signifying “education” – the complete education of mind, body and spirit. What would you teach that would contribute to the Reed community? (200 words minimum, 500 words maximum) * Reed College Application Essay Question –Common Application

Tips on How to Write the Reed College Essay

Find a unique topic, reed takes on a stance against tradition, so act like it., make sure your topic says something about you or your values, reference how your class would contribute to the community.

In a university as competitive as Reed College, this is critical. If you do not have a unique topic in your Reed essay, it’ll be hard to stand out from the rest. For a school with so many competitive students, standing out is vital to getting accepted.

So, what about a topic like Environmental Justice?

Normally, this sounds like a good topic. Besides, Reed leans rather liberally on the political spectrum. This makes Environmental Justice a good topic, right. Well, sadly no. There will be more than enough applicants covering this topic, so standing out will be next to impossible.

Here’s a good rule of thumb: If it’s trending on social media, then it’s probably not a good topic.

Let’s say you really, really want to cover Environmental Justice. Perhaps you’ve done a lot of projects and non-profit charity work around the field, or you have a great passion for it. You can still cover the topic if you get hyper-specific.

Here’s an example of a topic that works: Startups in Environmental Justice.

This topic, despite the fact that it covers something already covered by others, is still good. That’s because we focused in on the business and startup aspect of Environmental Justice. By doing this, you’re effectively zeroing in on a subcategory instead of a large cliché.

Traditional classes: you get a syllabus, participation points, homework assignments, one lab, one midterm, and a final.

Reed prides itself on its defiance of tradition. Say goodbye to all the dead old white people stuff –unless you’re an English major. If you want the class you’re teaching in Paideia to be interesting and fresh, and more importantly attractive to the admissions officers, you’d want something that parallels Reed’s unconventional culture.

Let’s take the “Startups in Environmental Science” course. Instead of having courses that assign True or False assignments, you may take away the assignments completely! Instead, you’ll have students work in groups of 4-5 throughout the whole time and have them simulate what it’s like to create their own startup. Guiding individual groups of students through the business creation process would be much more fun and exciting than just learning about them on paper.

Okay. This one is going to be important. When writing the Reed College essay, it’s critical that your topic demonstrates something about your character.

If you’re going to talk about gender studies as a whole, one may determine that you have a fairly strong sense of justice in the world of gender identity. However, this is going to be rather common and it makes it difficult to stand out at all.

Let’s look back to “Startups in Environmental Science”. A person with an interest in Environmental science and startup culture may be seen as both empathetic and practical. They use the productivity of startups to build something that will solve a solution –environmental catastrophe. They also have the empathy and compassion to focus their efforts into something that will save the planet.

We feel that this is a part of the essay that can get easily looked over and forgotten. However, it is part of the prompt and therefore important.

In the Reed College essay, you need to show how the class you teach will benefit the Reed community. This first implies that you need to understand the Reed community to begin with. Think about the times you may have visited the campus. What was the culture like? What were the people like? More importantly, what did they need that they were lacking?

So, let’s take our favorite example again. If you were writing about Startups in Environmental Science, you may be tapping into an itch that the Reed Community needs. They not only needs passionate students who have the right moral compass about the environment. They also need people who can take actionable steps to achieving the goals of Environmental Justice.

Startup work fits perfectly with this. The class would help people learn how to start their own companies and innovate new ways to better the community –a nice break from protesting and ‘raising awareness’. This class would help Reed’s thirst for actionable steps to achieving climate justice.

Think about your own topic. What would you write about? How would the topic you’re teaching provide value to Reed? How does it scratch an itch that the school and community cant quite scratch themselves?

Have any more questions about how to write the Reed College essay? Still wondering what your chances are of getting accepted into Reed College? Our admissions experts and advisors can help! We’ve helped students get accepted into some of the most prestigious universities in the nation.

Contact us for a free consultation. We will provide you with free advice on how to write your Reed College essay and get accepted.

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How To Get Into Reed College: Acceptance Rate + Tips

Reviewed by:

Rohan Jotwani

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 9/29/23

If you’ve ever dreamed of attending a small and quaint liberal arts college in the Northwestern US, read on to find out how to get into Reed College.

Reed College is located in southeast Portland, Oregon. The school was founded in 1908 and now boasts 40 majors. With classes encouraging debate and discussion, Reedies will prosper on their academic journeys. Not surprisingly, creativity and critical thinking are at the forefront of their educational philosophy.

The 1500 students enrolled at Reed College have a history of high academic achievement, exceptional GPAs, and educational background. Stay tuned if you’re wondering how you measure up and how hard it is to get into Reed College! 

Reed College Acceptance Rate

The Reed College acceptance rate is 44% . The admissions committee is known to select students with high academic rigor. While its admissions process is quite selective, it has a far higher acceptance rate than Ivy League schools . 

Reed College's transfer acceptance rate is 22.75%, which is comparatively low compared to its first-year admission rate. Also, Reed College's early decision acceptance rate is 30%. 

Although getting into Reed College may be challenging, knowing their admission statistics can help determine what you need to focus on.

Here is a table that illustrates the acceptance and yield rate for the past three years at Reed College. 

This table should help give you an idea of what to expect when applying to Reed College. 

Reed College Admission Requirements

To secure admission to Reed College, aim for an SAT score of 1520 or an ACT score of 34. These above-average scores, along with a 4.0 GPA, will ensure your profile aligns with the top-achieving applicants of the 2023-2024 admissions cycle.

To successfully apply to Reed College, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the various application requirements you’ll need to submit via either the Common Application or the Coalition Application . 

Personal Essay (If Using Common App)

If you’re applying to Reed College via the Common App , then you’ll be required to submit a personal essay plus one supplemental essay. 

Reed Writing Supplement

When learning how to get into Reed College, familiarizing yourself with how to craft a well-written supplemental essay is a great start. 

Reed’s supplemental essay asks students to answer the following question in 500 words: 

“For one week at the end of January, Reed students upend the traditional classroom hierarchy and teach classes about any topic they love, academic or otherwise. This week is known as Paideia after the Greek term signifying “education”—the complete education of mind, body and spirit. What would you teach that would contribute to the Reed community?”

This prompt encourages you to think critically, creatively, and reflectively about how you would make a meaningful contribution to the Reed community. No matter what you decide to write about, make sure it conveys your genuine interests and aspirations while highlighting your ability to engage in intellectual discussions and debates. 

School Report 

Their counselor must complete an applicant’s school report. The school report outlines a student's academic history and includes things like their transcripts and ratings, as well as their school's GPA reporting and curriculum.

Counselor Recommendation 

Reed College requires applicants to submit a counselor recommendation. A counselor recommendation is a letter of recommendation written by a high school guidance counselor on your behalf as part of your college or university application. 

This recommendation provides insight into your academic abilities, personal qualities, character, and overall suitability for higher education.

High School Transcripts 

It’s also required that applicants submit their high school transcripts. High school transcripts provide the school with a comprehensive record of your academic performance throughout high school.

Reed College GPA Requirements

Maintaining a high GPA is one of the key steps students can take to get into the college of their choice. Reed College matriculants average a 4.0 GPA in high school. While this may seem intimidating, it can be achieved by seeking help, knowing your strengths and weaknesses, and developing a routine that works for you!

Reed College Average SAT

The SAT isn’t required during the application process at Reed College. Reed College now considers themselves test-blind following the COVID-19 pandemic; even if you submit your test scores, they will not be considered for admissions. Reed College SAT scores average between 1320-1520. 

Reed College Average ACT

Like the SAT, Reed College doesn’t require the ACT as well. The average ACT score for Reed College is between 30-34. 

College Transcripts (If You’ve Attended)

If you’ve attended a college, Reed College requires that you submit your college transcripts. Sometimes, some of those college credits can be transferred and used at the college you plan on attending. 

Two Teacher Evaluations 

Applicants are also required to submit two teacher evaluations. Teacher evaluations, also known as teacher recommendations, are an important component of the college admissions process. 

These evaluations provide admissions committees with insights into your academic abilities, classroom behavior, work ethic, and personal qualities as assessed by your high school teachers. 

Building strong relationships with your teachers and putting together a great brag sheet will be useful when asking for your recommendation letters . 

Early Decision Agreement

If you’re applying to Early Decision, you’ll need to fill out this form . Early Decision allows applicants to apply to their preferred college or university early in the application cycle and receive an admission decision earlier than regular decision applicants. 

Early Decision is binding, meaning that if a student is accepted under an ED plan, they are committed to attending that institution and must withdraw all other college applications.

International Students Requirements

There are additional admission requirements for international students. They include:

• Either TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, ACT, or documentation that you attended an English school
• An interview
• College Scholarship Service Profile for those interested in applying for financial aid.
• Permanent Resident Card

These requirements are in addition to the other admission requirements mentioned above. 

Home-Schooled Applicants

Home-schooled applicants will also need to apply through the Common Application or the Coalition Application. THey must submit all required documents. 

Reed College Application Process & Deadlines

Here are the key Reed College decision dates and deadlines you need to know before starting your application:

Source : Reed College

Ensure that you meet the Reed College application deadline. Whether you decide to submit your application for Early Action or Early Decision , keeping track of these dates will ensure you have a smooth and successful application process.

Reed College Supplemental Essays with Examples

As mentioned, Reed College has one required supplemental essay. The writing supplement must be up to 500 words. The writing supplement may be submitted via the Common or Coalition Application or emailed to [email protected]. Here is the Reed College essay prompt: 

Here are some examples of well-written essays answering this prompt. 

Essay Example #1

Humans: The Apex Predators of Earth

Why are humans dominant? Why do we have the power to decide the fate of our universe? Do we actually have as much power as we think we do? What is man's place within nature? 

In my class, my students would explore the roles of humans in society. I first began to question human dominance on a service trip to Tanzania, when I experienced the Maasai tribe’s ceremonial goat slaughter. As the goat seized its last breath, I struggled to understand the precarious line between life vs. death. Prior to this experience I hadn’t contemplated our privilege as humans; I was blind towards human dominance. The goat's fate helped enlighten me to human beings’ unlicensed power. 

Why is it that we can decide the slaughtering of a goat is the circle of life, but the consumption of a dog is a sin? While I have yet to understand how and why we deserve to be the apex predator of our environment—and most likely will never know—I still enjoy raising these questions and stating my opinion. This event helped make me aware of where I focus my privilege. Through sustainability workshops, environmental science classes, and working in gardens I have begun to concentrate more on understanding how to benefit our environment, instead of destroying it with our power. 

We’re destroying our environment, which is necessary for us to live. It’s like we’re eliminating the essentials to our existence, making it harder for ourselves to continue to grow. In nature, when there is an overpopulation of predators, there’s quickly a lack of prey. What impact will we have in the future? Will we continue to allow this trend to occur, or will we make a change? 

In my open-ended and philosophical class we will assess a few major topics. First, what has led to the dominance of humans? Why have we been given sole responsibility for deep cognitive theories? Second, I would extend the narrative of Apex predatory from its reference towards animals to the environment itself. Why are we here? Are we on Earth to save the planet and solve the puzzle that is our environment, or will we destroy our pure home? 

Essay Example #2

Great American Leaders: A Historical, Sociological, and Political Perspective On How to Get Things Done

Course Description: Throughout history, many American leaders have been good, but what has made the most famous ones great? In this course, we will explore and apply the techniques of effective and highly regarded American leaders who have forever left their mark on our nation’s society. From President Lyndon Johnson’s use of “the lean” for physical intimidation to pass landmark legislation, to Martin Luther King Jr.’s use of the Old Testament to bring together Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish leaders during the Civil Rights Movement, to Eleanor Roosevelt’s ability to command respect and influence at a time when women’s voices were rarely heard, we will analyze the tactics that have led to lasting change. As we study the strategies pioneered by these great leaders, we will simultaneously work to find ways to apply them in the present day.

Sample lectures:

Connections During the Civil Rights Movement: A Sociological Look at the Unity of Leaders, Cultures, and Religions in Common Cause

Required readings: A Letter from a Birmingham Jail - Martin Luther King, Jr.

“I Speak to You as an American Jew” - Dr. Joachim Prinz, March on Washington

The 100 Days: FDR’s Spectacular Entry into the Office of the Presidency, and his Leadership of a Congress of Action

Required readings: The Defining Moment: FDR’s Hundred Days and the Triumph of Hope - Jonathan Alter

Roosevelt’s First Fireside Chat- March 12, 1933

Seneca Falls: The Leaders of the Women’s Suffrage Movement and their Convention that Changed Women’s Rights Forever

Required readings: Seneca Falls and the Origins of the Women's Rights Movement - Sally G. McMillen

Elizabeth Cady Stadam: Seneca Falls Keynote Address

At a time of ineffectiveness and gridlock, it is imperative that we study what makes a great leader and attempt to find applications of their work in the modern day, for our country and our world.

Essay Example #3

Under the setting winter sun, I rode my horse across the meadow while the snow began to thicken. Upon receiving a prized, famous axe from my close friend Ulfric, he requested that I return to a metropolitan city to converse with members who agreed with us regarding the status of the political landscape within our country in order to join their movement. Suddenly, though, I was knocked off my horse by a blow from my left. I unsheathed my weapon while hearing shouts from every direction. I lept off my horse and pulled my sword back to make the first blow, but just as I…

“Dinner!” My dad swept me out of my absorption with what, unfortunately, was not an exorbitantly unique experience from real life, but rather “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim,” an open world action video game within a fictional universe. I was beginning the quest “Joining the Legion” which would solidify my role as a supporter of the Empire and ban me from joining the rebellion. 

 As I sat down to eat my beef with broccoli, the recent quest was still on my mind. Making the decision as to whether or not I ought to join the rebellion or defend the Imperial Legion felt extremely rushed, and after being brutally attacked, I wondered if I made the right one. I realized that I required a much more nuanced look at the actuality of the issue’s development to make an educated decision, both for fascinating gameplay and political context. Delving into online resources, I gradually understood the background of the war, but I also realized how complex and multifaceted the history of the game was. The 9 major cities, countless towns and settlements, 273 quests, and six historical periods ensure there is never a dull moment, but also present the ideal means through which to examine complex historical developments, movements, and periods of an entire Empire.

So, I would teach a history of Skyrim course, also known as “Nords, Daedras, Alchemy and Everything In Between”. Not only would this multifaceted understanding of the background to major questlines be indispensable to successful game play, but the skills required to understand the development and effects of diverse historical developments could be utilized for other history and social science courses. Immersing oneself directly in the material through gameplay would provide a unique perspective on the events at hand which would be supplemented by the history-course-like style of the class. With countless online materials ranging from the Elder Scrolls Wiki to Gamepedia and, of course, Reddit, there would be no shortage of resources to utilize for assignments. 

 Thus, although my experience of nearly being knocked off my horse outside the gates of Whiterun was not necessarily real, the introspection and research which this experience prompted were. I can’t wait to join Reed’s campus next year and share my experience as a member of the Imperial Legion with the diverse Nords, Redguards, and Khajit around me. 

Reed College Tuition and Fees

Reed College’s tuition for this year is $66,710 a year . If you were to live on campus in a dorm, there would be an additional cost of $8,700. There are scholarships and financial aid to meet these high costs. 

Reed College Financial Aids & Scholarship

Reed College’s merit scholarships and financial aid is available to those who need it. In the past year, over half of Reed students had received need-based aid, and the average financial aid package was $52,284. 

Applicants can apply for financial aid through Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS Profile). 

Tips for Getting Into Reed College

Getting into college is a multi-step process. Here are a few ways to increase your chances of getting into Reed College. 

Excel Academically to Meet Reed's Standards

Excelling academically to meet Reed College's standards is not just a goal; it's a mantra for success at this prestigious school. At Reed, the pursuit of knowledge is paramount, and students are encouraged to embrace intellectual rigor and curiosity. 

As an applicant, it's important to demonstrate your commitment to these values through your academic record, essays, and recommendations. Reed seeks students who are capable of meeting its academic standards and eager to contribute to the vibrant intellectual community that thrives within its campus.

Engage in Relevant Extracurriculars

Engaging in relevant extracurricular activities can significantly bolster your application. Reed values students who bring diverse interests and experiences to its community. Showcasing your involvement in extracurriculars and community service that matches your passions. 

Whether through clubs, volunteer work , or other pursuits, Reed seeks well-rounded individuals who will thrive academically and contribute to campus life. 

Apply Early to Reed

If Reed College is a school you’re seriously considering attending, consider applying for Early Decision. Early Decision allows you to apply to Reed College earlier than the standard deadline. It’s also binding, which means you’ll need to reject any other offers you may receive if accepted. 

If you have any more unanswered questions about Reed College, check out the FAQs for the most common inquiries.

1. Is Reed a Prestigious College?

Reed College is a highly prestigious school with one of the highest rates of students who earn PhDs, especially in the life sciences, arts, and humanities . 

When looking for an exemplary liberal arts education, Reed College no doubt gives a comprehensive experience. Students will also have plenty of time to discuss their assignments and get feedback from distinguished faculty members.

2. What GPA Is Required for Reed College?

The average GPA for Reed College is a 4.0 . Reed College students come from academically rigorous backgrounds. Typically, they keep on top of their studies and maintain high grades. 

While GPA is not the only thing when considering admission, it is one of the main metrics used, especially since SAT and ACT scores are no longer required. 

3. How Hard Is It to Get Into Reed College?

With an acceptance rate of 44%, Reed College is moderately selective. Reed students typically have high GPAs and SAT/ACT scores. Building a strong academic profile, writing a strong essay, and participating in extracurriculars and volunteer experiences can help you stand out!

4. Should I Apply to Reed College?

Yes! Although the school has high standards for applicants, Reed offers several unique qualities that can provide a lot of value to its students. If graduate studies are an area of interest, networking with professors and past alumni will prove invaluable. 

Students with an aptitude for further research and discovery in life sciences, arts, and humanities have a strong opportunity at this elite and prestigious institution.

5. What Are the Programs Like at Reed College?

Reed students can earn a bachelor of arts degree in 40 different programs . A core curriculum feature is full-year humanities courses encouraging students to learn various topics. All students must eventually complete a senior thesis to cement their learning further.

6. What’s the Social Life Like at Reed College?

Life at Reed is very open and inclusive. Once accepted, the absence of fraternities and sororities encourages all students to socialize and engage with each other. To create a more communal environment, students can spend time and get to know each other in the house groupings of the residences. 

7. What Type of Areas Do Reed Graduates Work in?

Reed graduates may go on to work in various fields and disciplines. Careers in academia are a large area of interest to students, in line with their high record of PhD-bearing alumni. What’s more, areas of public service, business, and fine arts offer natural career progressions.

8. Does Reed College Require SAT?

No, Reed College doesn’t require the SAT. Since COVID-19, Reed has gotten rid of its standardized test requirements. If you submit your SAT score, Reed will not use it in the application process. 

9. When Do Reed Decisions Come Out?

Reed College’s regular decisions come out in early April and Early Decisions in February. 

10. Is Reed College an Ivy League School?

No, Reed College is not an Ivy League school. However, it’s a great school to attend and is considered a New Ivy . It is ranked #67 in National Liberal Arts College .

Final Thoughts

This guide on how to get into Reed College has provided an in-depth analysis of the school. With diversity at the forefront of the school spirit, Reed can provide an open and intellectual pathway for individuals looking for solid post-secondary education. 

Students who like to work in a solitary environment without discussion with their professors and peers may not be best suited for Reed’s close-knit community. 

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Crafting an Impressive Reed Supplemental Essay

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Introduction

The Reed supplemental essay is an essential component of your college application to Reed College. This essay gives you the opportunity to showcase your unique qualities and demonstrate why you are a good fit for Reed's academic community. In this blog post, we will provide you with valuable insights and tips on how to write an impressive Reed supplemental essay that will captivate the admissions committee.

Writing a compelling supplemental essay requires careful thought and planning. It is not just about answering a set of questions; rather, it is an opportunity for you to share your personal story and highlight what makes you stand out from other applicants. The admissions committee wants to get to know you beyond your grades and test scores, so it is important to use this essay as a platform to express who you are as an individual.

To craft a powerful personal narrative , start by reflecting on your experiences, values, and passions. Consider significant moments in your life that have shaped your character or influenced your goals. Think about challenges you have overcome or achievements that have made you proud. By sharing these personal anecdotes, you can paint a vivid picture of who you are and what motivates you.

Moreover, it is crucial to showcase how well-aligned you are with Reed College's values and community. Research the college thoroughly and familiarize yourself with its mission statement, core values, and academic programs. Showcasing your knowledge of Reed's unique approach to education will demonstrate your genuine interest in becoming part of their community.

In addition to content, the structure and editing of your essay play a vital role in making it impactful. A well-structured essay should have a clear introduction that grabs the reader's attention, body paragraphs that support your main ideas with evidence or examples, and a concise conclusion that summarizes your key points. Remember to revise and edit your essay multiple times for clarity, coherence, grammar, and spelling errors.

By following these guidelines and putting in the effort to craft an impressive Reed supplemental essay, you will increase your chances of standing out among other applicants and securing a spot at Reed College. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into each aspect of the essay-writing process to provide you with valuable insights and tips. So let's get started on creating an essay that will leave a lasting impression on the admissions committee!

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Understanding the Reed Supplemental Essay

The Reed supplemental essay holds great significance in the college application process, as it provides applicants with an opportunity to showcase their unique qualities and demonstrate their fit with the institution. The purpose of this essay is to give Reed College admissions officers a deeper understanding of who you are beyond your grades and test scores. It allows you to share your personal story, passions, and aspirations in a way that cannot be captured by other parts of your application.

Reed College is known for its commitment to intellectual inquiry, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary learning. Through the supplemental essay, the college aims to assess whether you align with these values and if you would thrive in their rigorous academic environment. This essay also helps the admissions committee evaluate your potential contributions to the Reed community and how you can benefit from what the college has to offer.

When writing your Reed supplemental essay, it is essential to approach it with thoughtfulness and authenticity. Admissions officers are looking for genuine reflections of your character and experiences. They want to see how you have grown intellectually and personally, as well as how you can contribute positively to the campus community. By understanding the purpose behind this essay, you can tailor your content effectively and make a compelling case for why Reed College is the right fit for you.

In the next sections of this blog post, we will delve into specific strategies for crafting a personal narrative that resonates with readers, showcasing your fit with Reed College's values and community, as well as structuring and editing your essay effectively. These tips will help you create an impressive Reed supplemental essay that stands out amidst a sea of applications. So let's dive in!

Crafting a Personal Narrative

A compelling personal narrative is crucial when crafting your Reed supplemental essay. This is your opportunity to share your unique experiences, perspectives, and aspirations with the admissions committee. To create a captivating personal narrative, start by reflecting on significant moments or challenges that have shaped you as an individual.

Consider discussing a transformative experience that has had a profound impact on your life. This could be an event, a relationship, or even a personal realization. By sharing this story, you can provide insight into your character and demonstrate how you have grown and developed over time.

Moreover, it is important to convey your passion and enthusiasm in your writing. Showcasing genuine excitement about your interests and goals will make your essay more engaging and memorable. Whether it's through vivid descriptions or heartfelt anecdotes, let your personality shine through.

In addition, don't shy away from vulnerability in your writing. Admissions officers appreciate authenticity and honesty. Sharing personal struggles or setbacks can demonstrate resilience and determination. However, it's essential to strike a balance between vulnerability and positivity – focus on how these experiences have shaped you positively rather than dwelling solely on the negative aspects.

Remember to connect your personal narrative back to why Reed College is the ideal fit for you. Highlight specific aspects of the college's academic programs or campus culture that resonate with your own values and goals. This will show the admissions committee that you have thoroughly researched Reed College and are genuinely interested in becoming part of its community.

Showcasing Fit with Reed College

Reed College is known for its unique values and tight-knit community, making it essential to showcase how you align with these aspects in your supplemental essay. One of the core values at Reed is intellectual curiosity and academic rigor . As an applicant, it is important to emphasize your passion for learning and your willingness to explore diverse subjects.

When showcasing fit with Reed College's values, it is crucial to highlight your commitment to intellectual inquiry. Discuss specific instances where you have demonstrated a love for knowledge and a desire to delve deeper into topics that intrigue you. Whether it was through independent research projects or participating in thought-provoking discussions, provide examples that demonstrate your intellectual curiosity.

Additionally, Reed College places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and encourages students to make connections across various disciplines. Showcase your ability to think critically and creatively by highlighting experiences where you have integrated different areas of study or tackled complex problems from multiple angles.

Another aspect of Reed's community is its collaborative nature. The college fosters an environment where students actively engage in discussions, debates, and group projects. Highlight instances where you have worked effectively as part of a team or contributed meaningfully to group endeavors. Emphasize your communication skills, adaptability, and willingness to listen and learn from others.

Lastly, Reed College values diversity and seeks students who will contribute positively to their inclusive community. Share experiences that demonstrate your respect for different perspectives and cultures. Discuss how you have actively sought out opportunities to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds and how this has shaped your worldview.

By showcasing fit with Reed College's values and community through examples that highlight intellectual curiosity, interdisciplinary thinking, collaboration, and appreciation for diversity, you will strengthen your supplemental essay and increase your chances of being admitted to this prestigious institution.

Structuring and Editing the Essay

Crafting an impressive Reed supplemental essay goes beyond just having great content; it also requires a well-structured and polished piece of writing. To ensure your essay stands out, you need to pay attention to both the structure and the editing process.

Structuring the Essay Effectively

When structuring your Reed supplemental essay, it's important to have a clear and logical flow that engages the reader from start to finish. Begin with a captivating introduction that hooks the reader's attention and introduces the main theme or idea of your essay. This could be an anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a compelling statement.

Next, develop your ideas in a coherent manner by organizing them into paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on one main point or aspect related to your personal narrative or fit with Reed College. Use topic sentences at the beginning of each paragraph to clearly indicate what each section will discuss.

To maintain clarity and coherence throughout your essay, make sure there is a smooth transition between paragraphs. Use transitional words and phrases such as "furthermore," "however," or "in addition" to connect ideas and create a seamless flow.

Finally, end your essay with a strong conclusion that summarizes your main points and leaves a lasting impression on the reader. This can be done by restating your thesis statement or main argument and providing some final thoughts or reflections.

Editing the Essay Effectively

Editing is an essential step in creating an impressive Reed supplemental essay. Start by reviewing your essay for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and sentence structure errors. Use proofreading tools or ask someone else to read through your essay for feedback.

In addition to checking for technical errors, pay attention to the overall clarity and coherence of your writing. Ensure that each sentence contributes meaningfully to the overall message of your essay. Remove any unnecessary repetition or tangents that might distract from the main ideas.

Consider revising your essay for conciseness and clarity. Trim any wordy or convoluted sentences to make your writing more concise and impactful. Use precise language and avoid excessive jargon or complex vocabulary that may hinder understanding.

Finally, read your essay aloud to check its flow and rhythm. This can help identify any awkward phrasing or inconsistencies in tone. Make sure the essay sounds natural and authentic, reflecting your unique voice as a writer.

By structuring and editing your Reed supplemental essay effectively, you can ensure that it is well-organized, coherent, and engaging. This attention to detail will demonstrate your commitment to excellence and enhance the overall impact of your essay on the admissions committee at Reed College.

In conclusion, crafting an impressive Reed supplemental essay requires careful thought and attention to detail. By understanding the purpose of the essay, you can effectively convey your personal narrative and showcase your fit with Reed College's values and community. Remember to structure and edit your essay in a way that is clear, concise, and engaging. The Reed supplemental essay provides an opportunity for prospective applicants to demonstrate their passion, intellect, and potential contributions to the college community. It is a chance to stand out among other applicants and leave a lasting impression on the admissions committee. With these tips in mind, you are well-equipped to write an exceptional Reed supplemental essay that will help you secure a spot at this esteemed institution. Good luck with your application process, and we hope to see you on campus soon!

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Sample Supplemental Essay for College Admissions: Why This College?

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Most college applicants fail to put adequate time into a supplemental college essay. The Common Application's personal essay allows a student to write a single essay for multiple colleges. The supplemental college essay, however, needs to be different for every application. Thus, it's tempting to dash off a generic and vague piece that can be used at multiple schools, resulting in a  weak essay .

Don't make this mistake. Your "Why This College" essay must be specific, demonstrating a high level of interest in and commitment to this particular school. To better understand how to ace this supplemental essay prompt, let's analyze a sample essay written for Oberlin College .

The essay prompt reads:

"Given your interests, values, and goals, explain why Oberlin College will help you grow (as a student and a person) during your undergraduate years."

Sample Supplemental Essay

I visited 18 colleges over the past year, yet Oberlin is the one place that most spoke to my interests. Early in my college search I learned that I prefer a liberal arts college to a larger university. The collaboration between the faculty and undergraduate students, the sense of community, and the flexible, interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum are all important to me. Also, my high school experience was greatly enriched by the diversity of the student body, and I am impressed by Oberlin’s rich history and its current efforts connected to inclusiveness and equality. To say the least, I’d be proud to say I attended the first coeducational college in the country.

I plan to major in Environmental Studies at Oberlin. After my campus tour , I took some extra time to visit the Adam Joseph Lewis Center. It’s an amazing space and the students I chatted with spoke highly of their professors. I became truly interested in issues of sustainability during my volunteer work in the Hudson River Valley, and everything I’ve learned about Oberlin makes it seem the ideal place for me to continue exploring and building upon those interests. I am also impressed by Oberlin’s Creativity and Leadership Project. I’ve been a bit of an entrepreneur ever since second grade when I made a dollar producing and performing The Runaway Bunny for my extended family. I’m drawn to a program that supports the move from classroom learning to creative hands-on, real-world applications.

Finally, as the rest of my application clearly demonstrates, music is an important part of my life. I’ve been playing the trumpet since fourth grade, and I hope to continue performing and developing my skills throughout college. What better place than Oberlin to do so? With more performances than days in the year and a large group of talented musicians in the Conservatory of Music, Oberlin is an ideal place for exploring my love of both music and the environment.

Understanding the Essay Prompt

To understand the strength of the essay, we must first look at the prompt: the admissions officers at Oberlin want you to "explain why Oberlin College will help you grow." This sounds straightforward, but be careful. You're not being asked to explain how college, in general, will help you grow, nor are you being asked how attending a small liberal arts school will help you grow. The admissions offers want to hear how  Oberlin , in particular, will help you grow, so the essay needs to include specific information about Oberlin College.

A strong "Why This College" essay will make a case for why the school in question is a good fit for the student. The case should be made by connecting facts about the school—unique opportunities, educational values, campus culture, et cetera—with the student's goals, values, and interests.

From the Admissions Desk

"We want to see [in the "Why This School" essay] that students understand the unique educational model at High Point University. We know that students have access to more information than ever before and that most colleges focus on the classroom experience. We want students who desire 25% of their time to be experiential ... who want to grow as people of character with strong values and to fully immerse themselves in our life skills education."

–Kerr Ramsay Vice President for Undergraduate Admissions, High Point University

A good way to see if you've responded to the prompt well is to swap out the name of the college you're applying to with the name of any other college. If the essay still makes sense once you do a global replace of the school name, you haven't written a good supplemental essay.

A Critique of the Supplemental Essay

The sample essay certainly succeeds on this front. If we were to substitute "Kenyon College" for "Oberlin College" in the essay, the essay would not make sense. The details in the essay are unique to Oberlin. Demonstrated interest can play a meaningful role in the admissions process, and this applicant has clearly demonstrated that she knows Oberlin well and her interest in the school is sincere.

Let's look at some of the essay's strengths:

• The first paragraph makes several important points. First of all, we learn that the applicant has visited Oberlin. This may not seem like a big deal, but you'd be surprised how many students apply to a large number of colleges based on nothing but the schools' reputations. Also, the student notes that she wants to go to a  liberal arts college , not a larger  university . This information isn't really specific to Oberlin, but it does show that she has thought about the options available to her. The final point in this first paragraph gets more specific—the applicant is familiar with Oberlin and knows the school's socially progressive history.
• The second paragraph is really the heart of this essay—the applicant wants to major in Environmental Studies, and she is clearly impressed with the program at Oberlin. She has visited the Environmental Studies building, and she knows of some of the unique opportunities offered at Oberlin. She has even talked with Oberlin students. This paragraph can't help but make a favorable impression on the admissions folks—the applicant is drawn to Oberlin, and she clearly knows exactly  why  she likes Oberlin.
• The final paragraph adds another important dimension to the application. Not only does the student find the Environmental Studies program attractive, but her love of music makes Oberlin an even better match. Oberlin has a top-rated music conservatory, so the applicant's dual love of music and Environmental Studies makes Oberlin a natural match for her.

Admissions officers can't help but feel that Oberlin is a great match for this applicant. She knows the school well, and her interests and goals line up perfectly with Oberlin's strengths. This short essay will certainly be a positive piece of her application.

A Final Word About Supplemental Essays

The content of your supplemental essay is extremely important, and poor decisions on this front can lead to a weak supplemental essay . But content isn't everything. You also need to focus on the presentation of your ideas. Make sure your essay is entirely free of any grammatical errors, and be sure to avoid common stylistic problems . The admissions officers need to conclude that you are sincerely interested in attending their school and that you are an excellent writer.

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Supplemental Essay Guide 2023-24

What do the 2023-24 supplemental essay prompts really mean, and how should you approach them? CEA's experts are here to break them all down.

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Agnes Scott College 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

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Reed's supplemental essay for this year

Hey everyone,

Just out of curiosity I was wondering what everyone who’s applying to Reed this year wrote about in Reed’s supplemental essay about what you would teach during the week of Paideia.

I took the unconventional rout and wrote about how I would make an entertaining presentation on my visual impairment with blind jokes and everything. It was really fun to write. What did you guys write about?

Look forward to reading your comments.

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Urban Soundtracks: Rostov-on-Don According to Motorama

For reasons unknown to me, Russian music has never broken into the Western consciousness, beyond that brief t.A T.u phase in the 2000’s. Americans just never caught on to the wonder that is Philipp Kirkorov, I suppose. Nonetheless,  Motorama has carved out a small niche for themselves as an underground hit. Maybe this is down to their lyrics being in English, or perhaps it’s the fact that they have a near-perfect capacity to summarize our twisted emotional landscape with their own brand of Post Punk.

Hailing from Rostov, Russia, they were formed outside the Moscow and Saint Petersburg cultural centers, which produce the bulk of the nation’s cultural exports. Known for being a far more rough city, Rostov appears to be the ideal backdrop for Motorama’s amazing capacity to engender emotions, like disappointment and anxiety. However, little writing is produced about the city and it attracts few tourists from outside Russia. As such, we spoke to  Vladislav Parshin from the band, and he kindly put together a bit of a mix to understand the place a bit more.

For most people anything outside of Russia, the country is a complete mystery. How did being from Rostov shape your musical tastes and you guys as artists?

For me the main influence was my father who showed me tons of great music from the Soviet Union and abroad and all these songs formed my tastes. Rostov-on-Don is also an important part of shaping the taste, as I knew personally the members of the New Wave/Post-Punk 90’s bands like Elen  and Matrosskaya Tishina , they influenced me in the beginning of the 2000’s.

It is interesting looking at musical scenes that are outside the centers of arts like Manchester, Seattle, and Louisville. It is as if being removed from the mainstream conversation allows you to produce something completely unique and personal. To a certain degree, do you think that your band was almost blessed to be outside the major cities of mainstream culture?

I won’t say that it was a blessing, but it was fine for us as a band. I think that living outside the big cultural spots is a good chance for creating something by yourself, you have more free time, instead of visiting never ending exhibitions, concerts and parties. But at the same time it’s harder to meet people who share the same ideas and who can help you in what you are doing. In general I feel comfortable living in Rostov-on-Don, we are flying to Moscow and St. Petersburg from time to time only because of the concerts.

The mix is fantastic. It is very Post Punk/synth-inspired. However, it is hardly the most ‘sunshine and rainbows’ mix. You’ve said in other interviews that there is nothing exciting about your home city of Rostov. Does that contribute to the sound of the mix?

I like such music and I think it suits our city.

In many articles, your work has been compared to British post-punk bands but I think it is fair to say that you’re part of a broader Soviet/post-Soviet tradition of bands like Kino. What is it about this darker style of music that continues to attract people across different generations in the former USSR?

I think that there’s a specific side in Russian character that is connected with such dark or sorrowful music. For example, lots of traditional folk songs from different parts of Russia are based on metaphysical stories connected with faith and death. All these existential problems are reflected in different art genres here, not only with music, but also literature.

World War II: Caucasuses Campaign--Rostov-on-Don (1941-43)

Rostov-on don, barbarossa (june 1941), german summer offensive (1942), germans take rostov (july 23), killing rostov jews (august), drive south, soviet offensive at stalingrad (november 19), withdrawl from the caucauses.