pepperdine essay prompts 2023

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How to Write the Pepperdine University Essay 2024-2025

Pepperdine University is a private research Christian university near Malibu, California. There are over 40 areas of study for undergraduates to pursue, including two certificates. The largest academic divisions for undergraduates include business, communication, social science and natural science. Over half of Pepperdine students study abroad at some point. 

Outside of the classroom, there are numerous Division I sports, and the Volunteer Center offers extensive opportunities for students to participate in service.  Students will need more than strong academics to be admitted to this university, and writing strong essays can certainly give you a boost. Read on to get our best tips on this year’s Pepperdine supplement. 

Pepperdine University Supplemental Essay Prompt

Pepperdine is a christian university where all are welcomed and encouraged to challenge each other in the pursuit of truth. students, faculty, and staff members from all backgrounds participate in conversations of faith inside and outside of the classroom. considering how pepperdine is a christian university, why are you interested in attending and how would you contribute to conversations of faith on campus (300-500 words).

This is essentially a “ why this school ” essay, but with an emphasis on the religious aspects of the school. To write this essay, you’ll need to have a grasp on how your own faith fits into your life so that you can discuss what you’ll bring to Pepperdine.

The first part of this prompt, however, is much simpler: why are you interested in attending Pepperdine? The more specific you are, the more genuine your interest seems. The best way to do this is to find a few aspects of Pepperdine that appeal to you, like programs and clubs, and describe why those are important to you. 

For example: 

• Your involvement with your church at home might lead you to want to continue that kind of work at college, and the Student-Led Ministry Service would appeal to you. 
• If you’re passionate about filmmaking—and maybe incorporating your faith with your film—you might be interested in the Sundance IGNITE club, where you can learn how to prepare for a career in film. 
• Students interested in pursuing a career in law might be interested in the Certificate in Conflict Management, where they could enroll in courses in Pepperdine’s law schools to supplement their undergraduate classes. 

You’ll have to do some research into Pepperdine to find those specific programs—whether academic or not–that interest you. If possible, try to incorporate your faith into at least one of these programs, like the Student-Led Ministries, since the prompt specifically notes that Pepperdine is a Christian university. 

The second half of the prompt is how you’ll contribute to conversations of faith on campus. This is a little more complicated, but there are several ways you could think about it. 

• What unique religious experiences have you gone through that caused the development of your perspectives? Did you turn to faith after some sort of trauma, like a death in the family or a serious injury? Did you travel to a place where you had the opportunity to delve deep into your connection to religion?
• Do you have some unique way of practicing your religion? Pepperdine is a Christian university, but perhaps you feel that you can better understand Christianity by learning about and engaging with other religions. 
• Maybe you’re fairly new to religion and still questioning and challenging—your contributions to conversations might be very different from that of other students, but you would be able to push people to think about things in a way they hadn’t before.
• You might not be a Christian at all, but your experiences with a different religion might allow you to engage in more thoughtful conversations about the differences in faiths and beliefs. 

Overall, the way you contribute to conversations of faith is really a commentary on how your faith is a part of you. It’s how you think about or practice your faith. You can also refer back to the programs and groups at Pepperdine that appeal to you. There, you could bring your own personal faith and beliefs to the student body. By pointing that out, Pepperdine can see that you’ve thought about how to combine your faith with your life on campus. 

The ultimate point of this essay is to show to Pepperdine that you are genuinely interested in the school, and have put some thought into how your faith will fit in with the Pepperdine community at large. You’ll accomplish this by pointing out specific details about both Pepperdine and your unique perspective on faith, which will show us how you plan to find your place at the school. 

Where to Get Your Pepperdine Essay Edited for Free

Do you want feedback on your Pepperdine essay? 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. 

Need feedback faster? Get a free, nearly-instantaneous essay review from Sage, our AI tutor and advisor. Sage will rate your essay, give you suggestions for improvement, and summarize what admissions officers would take away from your writing. Use these tools to improve your chances of acceptance to your dream school!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Pepperdine University 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 15

You Have: 

Pepperdine University 2024-25 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 1 essay of 300-500 words

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Community , Why

Pepperdine is a Christian university where all are welcomed and encouraged to challenge each other in the pursuit of truth. Students, faculty, and staff members from all backgrounds participate in conversations of faith inside and outside of the classroom. Considering that Pepperdine is a Christian university, why are you interested in attending and how would you contribute to conversations of faith on campus?

Given the faith-forward nature of this question and of the university website, we imagine that most of you folks reading this guide probably already have a few thoughts on this question. We’d be surprised if the religious affiliation didn’t factor into your decision to apply, but if you haven’t thought about it, now is your chance to reflect on what you’re looking for from this university, and what they will gain from having you on campus! Writing about faith is just as personal (if not more!) as any other topic you might cover on your college application, so don’t be afraid to dig deep. If you grew up in a traditional religious household, you probably have a treasure trove of experiences and stories to provide to admissions, but sometimes it’s hard to write about faith when it’s always been a given in your life. Whether your background is Christian, Hindu, or any other religion, can you think about why your faith has made you interested in attending Pepperdine? Maybe you’ve recently taken an interest in the lesser-known traditions of your faith and have adopted a practice of honoring elders by performing Bappa Jai Jai. Or, if religion wasn’t a huge part of your upbringing, what led you to take an interest in a Christian university? Perhaps you’ve more recently developed an interest in philosophy and ethics, and you think it would be valuable to study these topics in a religious context. Whether you consider yourself a religious person or not, faith is a central component of the Pepperdine education, and now is your chance to figure out how you’ll fit in. As a matter of fact, this is a Why essay mixed with a Community essay, so if you’re having trouble getting started, read through our general guides to kickstart your brainstorming!

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, pepperdine essay prompts.

Hey, everyone! I'm looking into applying to Pepperdine University and I was wondering if any of you could share the essay prompts for the upcoming application season? Thanks in advance!

Hello! For the upcoming application season, Pepperdine University uses the Common Application, which means you'll need to answer one of the main Common App essay prompts along with a few Pepperdine-specific questions, so keep that in mind.

As for Pepperdine-specific supplementals, there is only one in 2023:

Pepperdine is a Christian university where all are welcomed and encouraged to challenge each other in the pursuit of truth. Students, faculty, and staff members from all backgrounds participate in conversations of faith inside and outside of the classroom. Considering how Pepperdine is a Christian university, why are you interested in attending and how would you contribute to conversations of faith on campus? (300-500 words)

For in-depth tips on writing this essay, check out CollegeVine's breakdown here: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-pepperdine-university-essays

Be aware that supplemental prompts are subject to change, so check the Common App and Pepperdine's admissions pages to be sure that you respond to the most up-to-date prompt. Make sure to take the time to carefully craft well-thought-out responses that showcase your personality and share your story. Good luck with your application!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

How to Write the Pepperdine Supplemental Essay

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 8/21/23

Stuck on the Pepperdine supplemental essay? Struggling with writer’s block? Unsure where to start or how to end? This guide has got you covered!

The Pepperdine supplemental essay can feel like a daunting hurdle in the college application process. Despite being only 300-500 words, this essay may prove to be the most challenging you’ve ever written! 

But, fear not! In this guide, we’ll break down how to approach this essay and provide you with tips and tricks to ensure you wow the judges!

Pepperdine Essay Prompts

Fortunately, there is only one Pepperdine supplemental essay you’ll have to write:

Pepperdine is a Christian university where all are welcomed and encouraged to challenge each other in the pursuit of truth. Students, faculty, and staff members from all backgrounds participate in conversations of faith inside and outside of the classroom. Considering that Pepperdine is a Christian university, why are you interested in attending and how would you contribute to conversations of faith on campus?

That’s it! No need to choose between several prompts or stress about crafting your own unique topic. All you have to do is begin brainstorming!

The Pepperdine supplemental essay is an opportunity for you to showcase your genuine interest in attending this Christian university and actively engage in conversations of faith on campus. However, you don’t have to be Christian or overly religious to craft a compelling response! 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write a thoughtful essay that highlights your unique perspective and contributions, regardless of your specific beliefs.

Step One: Research

Begin by thoroughly researching Pepperdine's values, mission, and Christian identity. Reflect on your own beliefs and experiences, considering how they align with the university's core principles. Take note of the specific faith-related programs, activities, or organizations offered by Pepperdine that resonate with your interests.

This is your brainstorming phase, so make connections between Pepperdine’s values and your own. Think about the experiences you’ve had that have shaped your values and faith and how your perspectives can contribute to Pepperdine’s community.

Step Two: Be Authentic

Embrace your authentic self in your essay. Be genuine and honest about your motivations for wanting to attend a Christian university like Pepperdine. Avoid generic or clichéd answers, and instead, focus on your personal journey and how faith has shaped your life, values, and aspirations. 

If you aren’t Christian, that’s okay! Share your beliefs and tie them to the universal themes that Pepperdine stands by, such as excellence, service, and leadership. 

Step Three: Demonstrate Your Knowledge 

You did your research; now it’s time to show it! Clearly articulate your understanding of Pepperdine's emphasis on open and inclusive conversations of faith. Show that you comprehend the university's commitment to welcoming diverse perspectives and how it fosters an environment where individuals can challenge each other in pursuit of truth.

Link your own values and beliefs to Pepperdine's Christian identity. Explain how the university's focus on faith aligns with your personal growth and academic journey. Emphasize the importance of a supportive and inclusive environment in fostering your intellectual and spiritual development.

Step Four: Discuss Your Intentions

Discuss how you plan to contribute to conversations of faith on campus. Draw from your unique experiences, background, and talents to demonstrate how you can enrich the campus community. 

Mention specific extracurriculars, clubs, or events that you would like to participate in and explain how your involvement would positively impact the community.

Step Five: Polish Your Essay 

Revise and edit your essay carefully to ensure it flows coherently and effectively communicates your message. Check for grammar (with a free grammar checker ), spelling, and punctuation errors. 

Consider seeking feedback from teachers, counselors, or peers to gain additional insights and make improvements, but ensure you do not lose your unique voice in the process! You can accept suggestions to make your essay flow better, but do not accept complete rewrites that will diminish your personality!

Pepperdine Essay Examples

Let’s look at some Pepperdine essay examples to see these steps put into action: 

Essay Example One

Here is a Pepperdine supplemental essay example written by a student who has had a complex relationship with their faith:

"You're lucky to be alive. You must have had someone looking out for you." These words echoed in my ears as I lay in the hospital bed, my body bruised and battered, my heart heavy with gratitude and wonder. The car crash that had just transpired left me shaken to the core, but it also sparked a transformation within me that I never saw coming. In the midst of what could have been my final moments, I found myself miraculously surviving, and with that survival came a profound restoration of my faith.

Life had taken me on a tumultuous journey, one filled with highs and lows, successes and failures, but it was the crash that served as the turning point in my spiritual quest. In the days leading up to that fateful event, I had found myself questioning the very existence of a higher power. 

Yet, in that moment of crisis, as I emerged from the wreckage with a beating heart, I could not deny the presence of something greater than myself. I couldn't help but believe that there was a purpose behind my survival, that someone or something had been looking out for me. I realized that the accident had been a wake-up call.

It was this renewed sense of faith that led me to consider institutions of higher learning where I could foster my spiritual growth. Pepperdine University stood out as a beacon of hope, a Christian university that not only welcomed individuals from diverse backgrounds but also encouraged open dialogue and exploration of faith. Pepperdine's commitment to nurturing a community where truth and faith could coexist resonated deeply with my newfound beliefs and previous doubts.

As I envision myself at Pepperdine, I am eager to contribute to conversations of faith on campus. My journey from doubt to redemption has taught me the significance of sharing one's story, of opening up about the complexities of faith and the power of divine intervention. I hope to inspire others by recounting my own experience, reassuring those who may be grappling with doubt that they are not alone in their spiritual struggles.

Furthermore, I believe that diversity enriches our understanding of spirituality, and I eagerly anticipate engaging in respectful conversations with fellow students, faculty, and staff. By embracing differing perspectives, I aim to contribute to a community that celebrates unity amidst the diversity of beliefs.

Beyond discussions in the classroom, I envision actively participating in faith-based organizations and outreach programs. My survival has ignited in me a desire to serve others, extend a helping hand to those in need, and embody the teachings of compassion and love that my faith now embraces.

In essence, the car crash that brought me to the brink of life's precipice served as a catalyst for my spiritual awakening. I am grateful for my second chance at life, and I hope to make a meaningful impact as I embark on the next chapter of my spiritual and academic journey at Pepperdine.

Why It Works

This “lost and found faith” type of essay is common for this prompt, and it can be successful if done correctly! Here’s how this student used their experience of losing and finding faith to write a compelling essay:

• Strong opening : The essay begins with a captivating and emotionally engaging opening line that immediately draws the reader's attention. It sets the tone for a personal and introspective narrative.
• Shows vulnerability : It centers around a deeply personal experience—the car crash that led to the restoration of the writer's faith. The speaker also mentions their loss of faith, which shows deep vulnerability. 
• Clear interest in Pepperdine : The writer demonstrates a genuine interest in attending Pepperdine University by highlighting its Christian foundation and commitment to open dialogue on faith. The writer explains why Pepperdine is the ideal institution to nurture their spiritual growth.
• Mentions their contributions : The essay articulates how the writer would actively contribute to conversations of faith on campus by sharing their personal journey and inspiring others, promoting inclusivity, engaging in respectful dialogues, and participating in faith-based organizations and outreach programs.
• Demonstrates growth : The essay reflects on the writer's personal growth and introspection following the car crash. It showcases how the experience served as a turning point in their faith journey and how it led to a deeper understanding of spirituality.
• Maintains a positive tone : The writer maintains a positive and hopeful tone throughout, emphasizing their gratitude for a second chance at life and their eagerness to make a meaningful impact.
• Emphasizes diversity : It highlights the writer's commitment to embracing diverse perspectives and fostering an inclusive environment for faith-based discussions, which aligns with Pepperdine's values.

In summary, this is a strong response because it shows the writer’s introspection, resilience, growth, and deep interest in Pepperdine! 

Essay Example Two

The above example was right around the 500-word maximum mark, but you shouldn’t feel obligated to stretch your essay to meet this count. The following essay just goes to show how a shorter response can still pack a punch!

My interest in attending Pepperdine stems from my belief in the power of education as a transformative force. I am eager to immerse myself in an institution that values both academic rigor and the exploration of faith. The opportunity to engage in conversations of faith, both inside and outside the classroom, excites me, as I recognize the immense value of understanding diverse perspectives. I yearn to learn from individuals with different backgrounds and beliefs, knowing that such interactions will broaden my understanding of the world and enhance my personal growth.

Moreover, as someone who has been shaped by my own faith journey, I look forward to contributing to the conversations of faith on campus. I bring with me a deep sense of respect for various religious traditions and a genuine curiosity to learn from others. I believe that through dialogue, we can bridge the gaps that sometimes separate people of different faiths, fostering a sense of unity and harmony on campus.

In addition to being an active participant in these conversations, I aim to contribute through empathetic listening and a willingness to engage in thoughtful debates. I understand that sharing one's beliefs requires vulnerability and courage, and I am committed to creating a safe and supportive space for these discussions to take place. By fostering an environment of respect and open-mindedness, I hope to encourage others to share their thoughts and perspectives, thus enriching the campus community as a whole.

Furthermore, I am excited to contribute to the wider campus community in various ways. Whether it be through involvement in campus ministries, volunteering for community service projects, or engaging in interfaith initiatives, I am determined to play an active role in promoting a culture of understanding and compassion.

Ultimately, my desire to attend Pepperdine is rooted in the belief that this Christian university will not only provide me with an excellent education but also nurture my personal and spiritual growth.

I am eager to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with being part of such a vibrant and diverse academic community. Through my active involvement in conversations of faith and my commitment to promoting unity and understanding, I hope to make a meaningful and positive impact during my time at Pepperdine University and beyond.

Here’s why this Pepperdine supplemental essay works:

• Personal engagement and reflection : The essay is not just a generic response but a reflection of the applicant's own experiences and beliefs. They share their faith journey and how it has influenced their desire to engage in conversations of faith with others. 
• Specific examples : It mentions concrete ways in which the student would contribute to the conversations of faith on campus, such as empathetic listening, promoting a safe space, and engaging in interfaith initiatives. These examples show that the applicant has thought about their potential impact on the campus.
• Demonstrates cultural awareness : The applicant expresses a genuine interest in learning from individuals with diverse backgrounds and beliefs. This cultural awareness and openness to different perspectives are essential in contributing to meaningful conversations of faith in a diverse university setting.
• Well-structured and concise : At only 375 words, the essay is written in a clear and concise manner. It effectively communicates the applicant's key points without being overly flowery or wandering off-topic.

Overall, the essay is well-written, engaging, and showcases the applicant's unique perspective and potential impact on campus.

FAQS: Pepperdine Supplemental Essay

You can find the answers to any remaining questions about the Pepperdine supplemental essay below.

1. How Many Supplemental Essays Does Pepperdine Require?

Pepperdine only requires one supplemental essay.

2. How Long Should the Pepperdine Essay Be?

Your Pepperdine essay should fall between 300-500 words. Prioritize quality over quantity and ensure your answer is concise! Just because you have a 500-word limit doesn’t mean you have to meet it!

Final Thoughts

At Pepperdine, faith plays a pivotal role in shaping the university's culture and community. The supplemental essay offers you a golden opportunity to not only share the significance of faith in your own life but also to showcase how you plan to contribute to Pepperdine's values and foster a thriving environment on campus!

Avoid telling the admissions team what you think they want to hear. Be sincere, and let your passion and desire to contribute to Pepperdine's values shine through!

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Pepperdine University Supplemental Essays Guide: 2021-2022

Not sure how to approach the Pepperdine essay prompts? With tips from a Harvard graduate, CollegeAdvisor.com’s guide to the Pepperdine supplemental essays will give you the tools to write Pepperdine essays sure to stand out in admissions. If you need more help responding to the Pepperdine essay prompts, click here to create your free CollegeAdvisor.com account or schedule a free advising consultation with an Admissions Expert by calling (844) 343-6272.

Pepperdine Essay Guide Quick Facts:

• Pepperdine has an acceptance rate of 42%— U.S. News ranks Pepperdine as a more selective school. · The Pepperdine University ranking is #49 in National Universities .
• We recommend completing the Pepperdine supplemental essay carefully and authentically in order to maximize your admissions odds.

What is Pepperdine known for?

Pepperdine is a private Christian university located in Malibu, California. According to Pepperdine’s website, it provides “rich opportunities for intellectual and spiritual exploration within a diverse community.” Pepperdine is known for providing a strong liberal arts education on a scenic campus. After all, who wouldn’t want to go to college in Malibu?

Freshman applicants will apply to Seaver College, which houses Pepperdine’s undergraduate programs in the arts and sciences. The school boasts 82 degree programs, 17 NCAA Division I teams, and one of the highest-ranked study abroad programs. Famous alumni include football coach Mike Leach, former United Airlines CEO Oscar Munoz, and singer Brandy.

While Pepperdine welcomes students from all backgrounds, the university was founded with a Christian mission. Christian theology plays a major role in Pepperdine’s values. If you’re interested in attending a private university with a strong Christian background situated on a beautiful California campus, Pepperdine might be the place for you. This means you should put extra effort into your Pepperdine supplemental essays!

What is Pepperdine’s ranking?

According to U.S. News, the Pepperdine University ranking is #49 in National Universities. The Pepperdine University ranking is #13 in Best Undergraduate Teaching , and the Pepperdine University ranking is #47 in Best Value Schools .The Pepperdine University ranking can be a useful tool as you begin to research colleges and build your school list. Your school list should include the following categories: “reach” schools (which you’re less likely to get into), “target” or “match” schools (which you have a solid chance of getting into), and “safety” schools (which you’re quite likely to get into). It should include a couple of “reach” schools, a larger number of “target” or “match” schools, and a couple of “safety” schools.

Statistics like the Pepperdine University ranking can help you determine your admissions odds; this can be useful as you craft your school list. However, don’t get too hung up on the Pepperdine University ranking! Statistics like the Pepperdine University ranking depend on a variety of factors. At the end of the day, what matters most is that you apply to schools that fit your needs. Plus, the more time you spend on your Pepperdine supplemental essays, the more likely you are to get in. Remember, the Pepperdine supplemental essays are a key part of the admissions process!If you’re interested in Pepperdine, do your own research—after all, the Pepperdine University ranking can’t tell you everything. For more information about the Pepperdine University ranking (and college rankings in general), check out our recent article .

How do I get into Pepperdine University?

According to their website, Pepperdine University looks to assemble an entering class “filled with individuals who will add value to the Pepperdine community.” Pepperdine uses a holistic review process. This means, then, that they evaluate applicants’ grades and test scores alongside their personal qualities, achievements, and experiences. While the holistic review process looks slightly different at each school, Harvard Law does a great job summarizing the approach.

Because of the high Pepperdine University ranking, many students apply to Pepperdine with high grades and scores. The average first-year student GPA is between 3.69 and 3.96. Also, the average SAT total is between 131 and 1460. The average ACT composite score range is similarly high: 29-33. This means that if you want to get into Pepperdine, then strong grades and scores might not be enough. However, like many schools, Pepperdine University is test-optional for the 2021-22 application cycle. You want to show the Pepperdine admissions team that you’d be a dedicated member of the Pepperdine community. Your application should show that you’d be eager to contribute to campus both inside and outside of the classroom.

Be authentic

There’s no one way to get into Pepperdine. As you approach your Pepperdine application, then, don’t think about what Pepperdine wants to read. Don’t pad your resume with activities that don’t interest you, and don’t tailor your essays to what you think Pepperdine wants. Instead, focus on expressing your genuine identity. Why do you want to go to Pepperdine? Why do you think you would be an important addition to the Pepperdine community? If you can answer these questions and express those answers in your application, then you’re off to a great start.

One great way to maximize your admissions odds is to write an engaging, authentic, and unique Pepperdine supplement essay. In this guide, we’ll break down the Pepperdine University supplemental essay prompt in order to help you write a Pepperdine essay sure to stand out .

Does Pepperdine require a supplemental essay?

Yes—Pepperdine requires all students to complete one Pepperdine supplement essay. Since there are not multiple Pepperdine essay prompts, you should spend extra time drafting and revising your single Pepperdine supplement essay.

Think of your Pepperdine essay as your chance to address the admissions team on your own terms. In your Pepperdine supplement essay, then, focus on showing Pepperdine why you’ll be a crucial addition to their class. The best Pepperdine supplemental essays will offer authentic insight into an applicant’s identity as it relates to their future at Pepperdine.Below, you’ll find the Pepperdine University essay prompt. We’ve also included expert tips on how to write your Pepperdine essay!

Pepperdine Supplemental Essays – Prompt 1 (Required)

Once again, since there are not multiple Pepperdine essay prompts, you should give your single Pepperdine supplement essay your full attention.

Here is the Pepperdine University essay prompt:

Pepperdine is a Christian university where all are welcomed and encouraged to challenge each other in the pursuit of truth. Students, faculty, and staff members from all backgrounds participate in conversations of faith inside and outside of the classroom. Considering that Pepperdine is a Christian university, why are you interested in attending and how would you contribute to conversations of faith on campus? (300-500 words)

First, let’s break down the Pepperdine University essay prompt!

As you’ll notice, the Pepperdine University essay prompt centers around faith. The Pepperdine essay prompts you to discuss how faith influences your relationship with the world around you. It also asks why you want to engage in dialogues around faith on campus.While Pepperdine is a Christian school, it welcomes students from all religious (and non-religious) backgrounds. The Pepperdine essay prompt states that Pepperdine is “a Christian university where all are welcomed and encouraged to challenge each other in pursuit of truth.” This means that while Christianity is core to Pepperdine’s culture, so is interfaith dialogue. The Pepperdine essay prompts allow you to describe how these values align with your own interests, goals, and priorities.

Focus on exchange

Pepperdine doesn’t want all of its students to come from the same faith. Instead, it aims to create a culture where students and faculty can exchange views on faith and, in doing so, gain a broader perspective. If you’re excited to engage with others on topics of faith, you have the potential to write an excellent Pepperdine essay.So, what is the Pepperdine University essay prompt really asking?

Essentially, the Pepperdine University essay prompt asks you to write a “Why Pepperdine” essay, albeit with a bit of a twist. The Pepperdine essay prompts you to use your relationship to faith as a lens to explore why you want to attend Pepperdine. This means your response should include both details about your faith background as well as information about why Pepperdine interests you.With this in mind, your Pepperdine essay should use your relationship to faith to express why you want to go to Pepperdine. The best Pepperdine supplemental essays will use a student’s own background alongside their understanding of faith and dialogue to express why Pepperdine is the school for them.

How do I write my Pepperdine supplemental essay?

The Pepperdine essay prompts you to discuss two core things. First, the Pepperdine essay prompts you to discuss why you are interested in Pepperdine. Then, the Pepperdine essay prompts you to detail how you would engage with conversations of faith on campus. Strong Pepperdine supplemental essays will answer both of these questions with authenticity and detail.

Start by brainstorming your own views on faith and religion. Think about moments in your life that have shaped your understanding of faith. Maybe you were raised in a Catholic background that has shaped your views toward religion. Maybe you grew up Muslim and have engaged with your faith by talking to those from different backgrounds. Or maybe you don’t prescribe to a particular religion but are interested in how faith informs different communities. Remember, Pepperdine welcomes students from all backgrounds. The key to a strong Pepperdine essay is to explain why conversations around faith excite you—and why this interest will make you a valuable member of the Pepperdine community.

Of course, your Pepperdine essay should be free from any bigotry. Successful Pepperdine essays will display a student’s relationship to faith through the lens of the Pepperdine University essay prompt; that is, they will model how a student will engage with equitable, fair, and mutual talks about faith on campus. In other words, Pepperdine supplemental essays from atheists can be just as successful as those from religious applicants. Pepperdine is saying that their community holds space for skepticism, questioning, and disagreement.

Be specific

As you brainstorm, think about moments that have shaped your views on faith. For instance, maybe you had a conversation with a rabbi or pastor that helped you see things from a new perspective, or maybe you volunteered with a Christian organization dedicated to serving the common good. Make a list of experiences, values, and ideas—whether broad or narrow—that have shifted the way you view faith. Strong Pepperdine supplemental essays can spring from any number of topics, so don’t limit yourself!

Once you have this list, choose two or three moments, experiences, or ideas. Set a timer and do a ten-minute free-writing session for each. Don’t stop writing for the full ten minutes. The goal of your free-write shouldn’t be to produce a flawless Pepperdine essay. Instead, your free-write should just help you to think about how faith informs your life. Again, great Pepperdine supplemental essays can come from anywhere. Don’t censor yourself—just keep writing.

Once you’ve thought about your background, come back to Pepperdine. Why do you want to join a community engaged in dialogue around faith? What do you hope to learn from these conversations? What will you add to this interfaith dialogue? More broadly, why does the Pepperdine community attract you? If you’re having trouble answering these questions, try another free-write.

Research the school

Since the Pepperdine University essay prompt is a bit like a “Why Pepperdine” essay, do some research on the school. Look at programs, organizations , and events around faith that Pepperdine offers. What about Pepperdine engages you? The more specific you can be in your Pepperdine supplement essay, the better. Strong Pepperdine supplemental essays will engage directly with Pepperdine’s offerings.

After you’ve nailed down some ideas, it’s time to start drafting your Pepperdine supplement essay. Pepperdine supplemental essays can be between 300 and 500 words. This means you have a fair amount of space in your Pepperdine essay to discuss your relationship with faith and how it would grow at Pepperdine. However, don’t feel like you need to write 500 words if 350 will suffice. As long as your Pepperdine essay falls within the word count and fully expresses your ideas, you’re in great shape.

You might begin your Pepperdine essay with a story about your experiences with faith. Return to the list you made earlier—what moments stick out to you? Alternatively, what parts of your identity have informed your relationship to faith? The opening of your Pepperdine supplement essay should draw the reader in. Use vivid language and imagery in your Pepperdine essay to help your reader envision you on campus. The strongest Pepperdine supplemental essays will have strong openings that reveal something about how an applicant sees the world.

Looking forward

Once you’ve discussed your own faith in your Pepperdine essay, turn toward your future on campus. How will you engage with your peers around faith? How will these interactions help you grow? What can you do for the Pepperdine community, and what will Pepperdine do for you? The best Pepperdine supplemental essays will answer some or all of these questions.Finally, after you’ve finished your draft, do several rounds of edits. Each sentence of your Pepperdine essay should show the reader something new about you. Strong Pepperdine supplemental essays will make the admissions team excited about what an applicant would bring to campus. Make sure your personality shines through in your Pepperdine essay!

Pepperdine Essay Draft Key Questions

• Does your Pepperdine essay demonstrate a deep engagement with faith-centered dialogue?
• Do you demonstrate why joining a community founded in faith will enrich your college experience?
• Does your Pepperdine supplement essay show that you’ve done your research on Pepperdine?
• Do you show your reader that you will maturely and open-mindedly approach interfaith dialogue?

Want to hear more from Pepperdine University’s undergraduate admissions team on approaching the Pepperdine supplemental essays? Check out this video from the Senior Associate Director of Admissions below.

Pepperdine Supplemental Essays: Final Thoughts

The Pepperdine essay prompts you to think deeply about your relationship with faith. It’s not an easy question, and you shouldn’t rush your response. Take your time crafting your Pepperdine supplement essay. The best Pepperdine supplemental essays will show a deep engagement with the prompt. After all, if you can write authentically about your relationship with faith, you’ve already shown the Pepperdine admissions team how you’d engage in the conversations they discuss in the Pepperdine University essay prompt.

Since there are not multiple Pepperdine essay prompts, your Pepperdine supplement essay becomes even more important. However, while the Pepperdine supplement essay might seem overwhelming (especially in light of the Pepperdine University ranking), don’t be discouraged. If you start your Pepperdine essay early and give yourself time to brainstorm and draft, you should be in great shape. Don’t be intimidated by the Pepperdine supplement essay. Instead, use your Pepperdine essay to show the admissions team the reasons why you’d be an asset to their community. The strongest Pepperdine supplemental essays will help the reader envision an applicant engaging in dialogue around faith on campus.

Finally, don’t forget to proofread your Pepperdine essay for any errors in spelling and grammar. It might also help to ask a trusted adult to look over your Pepperdine essay for tone, syntax, and clarity. Successful Pepperdine essays will show skill in both writing and critical thinking. Good luck!

This 2021-2022 essay guide on Pepperdine was written by Abbie Sage, Harvard ‘21. Want more help responding to the Pepperdine University essay prompt? Click here to create your free CollegeAdvisor.com account or schedule a free advising assessment with an Admissions Expert by calling (844) 343-6272.

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