In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel breaks down Columbia University’s 2025 supplemental essays and guides you through how to approach each one strategically. From the famous “list question” to the diversity prompt, the disagreement essay, the adversity question, and the two-part “Why Columbia” response, Thomas explains how to build thoughtful, authentic answers that actually help you stand out.
You’ll hear why your list should balance intellectual depth with curiosity, how to write about disagreement and adversity without falling into cliché or forced resolution, and how to go beyond “I want to live in New York” when describing why Columbia is the right school for you.
Whether you’re just beginning your Columbia application or finalizing your essays, this episode will give you the clarity to be intentional, compelling, and memorable in a highly competitive applicant pool.
Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @admittedlyco for more essay tips, and visit www.admittedly.co for webinars, resources, and guidance on applying to Columbia and other highly selective schools.