Applying to University of Redlands this cycle? In addition to your main personal statement, you will need to complete two program-specific supplemental essays.

While writing two 500-word essays might seem like a substantial load, this generous word count gives you ample space to provide highly nuanced answers. Our analysis shows that successful applicants use this space not to rehash their activities list, but to draw a clear, detailed bridge between their personal values and Redlands' distinct campus culture.

Below, we break down exactly how to approach both of these prompts to help you craft a standout application.

The "Why Redlands?" Essay

"Everyone on campus – students, staff, faculty – has their “Why Redlands?” and the reason they joined the Bulldog community. What’s your “Why Redlands?"?" Word Limit: 500 words

What it's really asking: This is a classic "Why Us?" essay with a community-focused twist. Admissions officers want to see that you haven't just skimmed the homepage. They want to know why you specifically belong in the "Bulldog community" and how the university aligns with your unique academic and social goals.

A strong approach:

• Be academically specific: Highlight unique offerings like the Johnston Center for Integrative Studies [1] or the distinctive 4-4-1 academic calendar's May Term [2].
• Connect to the community: Link your past volunteering to Redlands' Community Service Learning graduation requirement [3], or mention specific campus traditions.
• Link features to goals: Every campus resource you mention must connect directly to your personal aspirations or learning style.

Common mistakes:

• Praising the weather: Focusing heavily on Southern California's climate or location rather than the university's academic offerings.
• Generic praise: Praising "small class sizes" without explaining why that environment matters for your specific learning style.
• Copy-pasting: Submitting a generic essay that could easily apply to any other small liberal arts college.

The Diversity and Community Essay

"Each Redlands student brings a diverse perspective, background, or story with them to college. How do you see yourself contributing to our community?" Word Limit: 500 words

What it's really asking: This prompt is designed to understand who you are outside of your transcript and how you will enrich the campus. As a designated Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) [4] that heavily values inclusivity and mutual respect, Redlands wants to know what unique lens you bring to their classrooms and dorms.

A strong approach:

• Define your background broadly: Diversity encompasses culture, geography, socioeconomic status, neurodivergence, hobbies, or unconventional family structures.
• Focus on the "contribution": Dedicate at least half the essay to how your perspective will enrich specific Redlands communities or student organizations.
• Use a microcosm story: Anchor your narrative in a specific moment that illustrates your perspective in action.

Common mistakes:

• Forgetting the second half: Spending 450 words detailing your background and only 50 words on how you'll contribute.
• Trauma dumping: Sharing a difficult story without demonstrating growth, resilience, or how it shaped your worldview.
• Being overly broad: Claiming you will "add diversity" without explaining the tangible ways you will engage with others.

Next Steps

• Audit your Redlands knowledge: Spend 30 minutes researching Redlands-specific programs, clubs, and traditions that genuinely excite you.
• Outline your connections: Create a two-column list mapping your specific traits and experiences to corresponding Redlands offerings.
• Draft and trim: Write freely at first, then aggressively edit out fluff and generic statements to meet the limit.