S4E31: Cracking the UPenn Supplements: Thank-You Note & Community Essay Tips

In this episode of The Admittedly Podcast, host Thomas Caleel, former Director of MBA Admissions & Financial Aid at UPenn’s Wharton School, breaks down the University of Pennsylvania’s 2025 writing supplements and how to approach them strategically.

Thomas explains how to make the most of Penn’s two required prompts: the “Thank You Note” and the Community Essay. You’ll learn why the thank-you letter should be written last, how to use it to reveal an untold part of your story, and how to reflect thoughtfully on sharing gratitude with someone who has impacted your life.

He also dives into the community question and how to tie your personal background and interests to Penn’s collaborative, urban campus culture (without resorting to a laundry list of clubs or clichés). From West Philadelphia connections to Penn-specific opportunities, this episode shows you how to write responses that feel intentional, personal, and connected to your broader application strategy.

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