Glimpse / Video Introductions: Should You Submit One?

The college admissions process in the United States is constantly evolving, and video introductions are one of the newest additions. These optional videos allow students to present themselves to universities in ways that test scores, essays, and transcripts cannot. Through these videos, admissions officers gain insight into an applicant’s personality, communication style, and energy, which are all traits that can be difficult to capture in a written college application.

Schools such as the University of Chicago, Brown University, Middlebury College, and Bowdoin College have experimented with Glimpse or InitialView videos as part of their holistic admissions process. While not required, these videos are considered a unique opportunity for students who want to make a lasting impression on the admissions committee. For students unsure whether to submit one, the decision often comes down to fit, comfort, and the role it will play in your application.

What Is a Glimpse Video Introduction?

A Glimpse video introduction is a relatively new application supplement offered through the Glimpse platform. It is designed to give applicants a chance to record a short video response to a prompt that schools provide. The goal is not a professional production but an authentic personal video introduction that adds additional insight for admissions officers.

InitialView, another platform used by colleges like Duke University, Vanderbilt University, and Boston University, offers a similar option.

In both cases, the video is uploaded through an application portal and becomes part of your official application materials. For schools like Middlebury, the Glimpse video even serves as an alternative to other supplemental writing pieces, giving students flexibility in how they represent themselves.

Which Colleges Accept Video Introductions?

Not every school in the United States offers this option, but the list is growing. Brown University allows students to upload a Glimpse video introduction through the Brown applicant portal. The University of Chicago has accepted Glimpse submissions for both Early Decision and Regular Decision applicants. Middlebury has presented Glimpse as an alternative to other essays, while Bowdoin College has explored optional video responses in its application portal.

Other universities, such as Wake Forest University, Washington University in St. Louis, and Swarthmore College, have tested optional video submissions as part of their holistic review process. International platforms like InitialView are also commonly accepted by Boston University, Duke University, and Vanderbilt University, particularly for international applicants who want to demonstrate spoken English and communication skills. The exact requirements and prompts vary, but across schools, the trend shows a growing interest in allowing students to show their authentic selves on camera.

Why Colleges Are Offering Optional Videos

Admissions officers have long sought ways to learn more about students beyond grades and essays. Alumni interviews, for example, have historically provided personal insight. However, not all applicants have equal access to interviews, especially international students. Video introductions create a more standardized way to evaluate applicants’ presence, energy, and communication.

For schools, these videos also align with equity and access goals. They offer a free or low-cost opportunity for applicants to showcase qualities like creativity, humor, and curiosity. In many ways, the video can serve as a second personal essay, shorter and more spontaneous than a written statement, yet equally valuable for capturing qualities that signal a good fit for the college.

Benefits of Submitting a Video Introduction

Submitting a video introduction can be a strategic way to strengthen your college application.

First, it gives the admissions committee an additional perspective, helping them see you as a complete person rather than just a file of application materials.

Second, it allows you to emphasize qualities such as leadership, collaboration, or excitement about joining a new community.

Third, a well-prepared video can help offset weaknesses in other areas of your application. For instance, if your test scores are lower than average for your dream school, a confident, authentic video can reassure admissions officers that you would thrive in their environment.

Finally, because relatively few students currently submit them, strong videos can help you stand out in a competitive admissions cycle.

Challenges and Risks of Video Submissions

At the same time, video introductions are not right for everyone. If you are uncomfortable speaking on camera or struggle to communicate your thoughts clearly under pressure, a weak video can detract from your application. Admissions officers want authenticity, but they also expect clarity, confidence, and thoughtfulness.

Production quality can pose another challenge. Colleges do not expect professional editing, but background noise, poor lighting, or a distracting environment can harm your presentation. Unlike essays, which can be revised multiple times, a video response often has a limited word count or recording time and may be less polished than other parts of your application. Applicants must weigh whether the final product will truly strengthen their candidacy.

FAQs About Glimpse and InitialView Videos

Many students have practical questions about these submissions.

First, are they required? No—at present, video introductions are optional responses, and you will not be penalized for skipping them.

Second, where do you submit them? Typically, you upload them through the school’s application portal.

Third, how long should they be? Most schools request a short video introduction, around 60 to 90 seconds, that answers one or two specific prompts.

Finally, will production quality matter? No, admissions officers expect recordings from laptops or phones, so just be sure to choose a quiet space without background noise and present yourself clearly. Remember, this is about substance, not special effects.

Dos and Don’ts of Submitting a Video Introduction

A successful video introduction is all about balance. Do record yourself in a space where you can speak clearly without interruptions. Do look directly at the camera, as if speaking to an admissions committee. Do prepare talking points so you feel confident, but avoid memorizing a script that sounds unnatural.

On the other hand, don’t submit a video with heavy editing, filters, or background music that distracts from your message. Don’t ramble or ignore the specific prompts provided, since the admissions team wants focused, meaningful answers. And don’t forget to show enthusiasm—your energy and authenticity are often as important as your words. A short video that reflects your genuine excitement about joining a particular school can be a powerful addition to your application process.

Examples of Prompts You Might Encounter

Colleges often provide fun and open-ended prompts to encourage creativity. For example, the University of Chicago might ask a randomly selected question, such as “What’s a tradition from your high school you would bring to campus?” Brown University could ask you to describe a book, debate team moment, or student group experience that shaped you. Middlebury might invite you to reflect on a school event or a list of potential topics that highlight how you’d contribute to their community.

Other schools might ask about your dream job, an international experience, or how you would spend a day at your new campus. Because the prompts vary, it’s wise to practice a few different short responses so you feel comfortable answering unexpected questions. The key is to connect your story back to your academic goals and why you are a good fit for the college in question.

Should You Submit a Video Introduction in Your College Application?

The decision comes down to whether a video introduction will enhance your overall application. If you communicate well on camera and can confidently explain your interest in a school, submitting a video is often a smart choice. If, however, you are nervous and likely to produce a final product that doesn’t reflect your strengths, it may be better to focus on other parts of your application.

Remember, the optional video is just one element of your application. It can supplement your Common Application, essays, recommendations, and transcripts, but it cannot replace strong academic preparation and thoughtful application materials. Think of it as a unique opportunity to provide additional insight rather than a requirement.

At Spark Admissions, we provide expert guidance on every step of preparing for and applying to college, but we don’t stop there. We view the college preparation period as a time for skill-set development. That means helping students strengthen their writing skills, gain leadership experience, and explore academics and extracurriculars that will result in the strongest possible application.

If you’re unsure whether to submit a Glimpse or InitialView video, or you want support preparing a video introduction that will leave a lasting impression, we’re here to help! Contact Spark Admissions today for a free consultation and discover how our personalized strategies can elevate your college application.

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