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Want to see your chances of admission at University of Oregon?

We take every aspect of your personal profile into consideration when calculating your admissions chances.

University of Oregon’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Additional info essay.

This section can be used for various purposes, and gives you an optional opportunity for discussing any of the following.

•Your academic record might have included periods of low performance such as grades of D or F, inconsistent or downward trends in grades, deficiencies in particular subject areas, or discrepancies between your test scores and GPA. This might be because of special personal circumstances such as death or illness of a parent, caring for a family member, homelessness, frequent moves, or due to learning disabilities/differences or study habits. If relevant, be sure to let us know what actions you have taken in order to be successful, and what you have learned from the experience.

•You want to help us better understand how your involvement in activities was limited by work or family obligations, or by the unique setting of your school or community

•You need to share any other information with us about yourself that is not provided elsewhere, or UO admissions staff told you to provide certain information in this space

(When responding, keep in mind that University of Oregon employees are required by law to report reasonable suspicion of child abuse to law enforcement or the Oregon Department of Human Services per ORS 419B.005. Other knowledge of illegal activity may also be reported by UO, pursuant to other reporting requirements.)

Honors College Essay

Essay Instructions: Curiosity and breadth of interests are defining characteristics of Clark Honors College students. We value originality and want to learn more about your unique journey and the nature and breadth of your intellectual curiosity.

Note: applicants are required to submit the UO‘s application essay and the CHC application essay. The UO’s essay cannot be used to fulfill the Clark Honors College admission essay requirement.

Essay Prompt: Please tell us about a specific enthusiasm that showcases your curiosity and intellectual engagement with the world. Your chosen enthusiasm or passion can be from any domain—academic, artistic, scientific, cultural, or any other area that has captivated your interest. Be thoughtful and provide concrete examples to support your response.

Please limit your response to a maximum of 500 words.

Architecture and Interior Architecture Prompt 1

Why have you decided to study this design program? Please expand on relevant experiences and motivations that have shaped your desire to apply to the major.

Architecture and Interior Architecture Prompt 2

Describe your engagement with an experience, activity, or creative project (as in art, construction, or craft, etc.) that has influenced your interest in design. What did you learn from this experience?

Select-A-Prompt Essay

Essay Topic: (250-500 words - choose one of the topics below)

Describe an experience with discrimination, whether it was fighting against discrimination or recognizing your contribution to discriminating against a person or group. What did you learn from the experience? In what ways will you bring those lessons to the University of Oregon?

The University of Oregon values difference, and we take pride in our diverse community. Please explain how you will share your experiences, values and interests with our community. In what ways can you imagine offering your support to others?

Common App Personal Essay

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

How to write a college or scholarship essay

Use these tips to write a successful essay. Practice with sample prompts or one from your applications.

Some college and scholarship applications require written responses to a specific question. These may range from a short paragraph to a longer essay.

Follow directions

This simple tip is the most important one—pay attention to what is asked. Answer the question, keep within page or word limits, and follow any special formatting requests.

Write your best

For most applications, you will only be submitting one or two written pieces. The people who read your applications assume that what they see is the best you can do. It’s your job to make sure you prove them right! Your essays should be examples of your best writing.

This is good practice no matter what you’re writing, but you’ll want to make sure you proofread these essays extra carefully. Better yet, have a friend or trusted adult proofread for you, too. You’d be surprised at the number of applicants who write that they really want to go to Oregon State University on their application to Linfield University! Thorough proofreading can prevent these simple mistakes.

Be yourself

Essays are an opportunity for admissions and scholarship committees to learn about you and your experiences that aren’t captured by your GPA or test scores. Use your essay to show them what’s important to you and to let your personality shine through. A note of caution: funny essays can be great to read, but if no one’s ever told you you’re funny, this isn’t the time to try.

Remember you have an audience

Most of the time you won’t meet the person who is reading your application, so it can feel like you don’t have an audience. It’s important to remember that you do. Keep in mind that you don’t know the politics, religion, or personal beliefs of the person who is reading your application. Choose a topic that matter to you, but be careful not to offend.

Reduce, reuse, recycle

There’s no question that writing essays can be time consuming. Reduce the amount of time you spend by reusing your work when possible. Many prompts are only slightly different from one another. With some careful editing (and proofreading!), you should be able to recycle an essay for one application into a usable essay for another.

Sample essay prompts from Oregon colleges

Common Application

A standard application used by 10+ colleges in Oregon as well as more than 900 colleges around the U.S. so you can apply to multiple schools with just one application. Some colleges may have additional essay questions.

Choose one of the prompts to write an essay of between 250–650 words.

• Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
• The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
• Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
• Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
• Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
• Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
• Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Other college applications

Many colleges ask additional essay questions. Often the admissions committee is looking to see you understand how the college would be a good fit for you and your future goals.

• Why do you want to want to attend [college name]?

Other colleges may ask you to focus on specific skills that will help you succeed in college, such as leadership, community service, or commitment to diversity.

• The University of Oregon values difference, and we take pride in our diverse community. Please explain how you will share your experiences, values and interests with our community. In what ways can you imagine offering your support to others?

Many colleges also offer students who don’t meet minimum entrance requirements or who have struggled in school an opportunity to explain their specific circumstances.

Sample essay prompts from Oregon scholarships

OSAC Scholarships

Limit per statement is 1,000 characters (approximately 150 words).

• What are your specific educational plans and career goals and why? What inspires you to achieve them?
• What have you done for your family or community that you care about the most and why?
• Describe a personal accomplishment and the strengths and skills you used to achieve it.
• Describe a significant change or experience that has occurred in your life. How did you respond and what did you learn about yourself?

The Ford Family Foundation

Limit per statement is 150 words.

• Choose one: Describe a skill or ability you have developed that you are proud of. How did you develop it and why is it important to you? -or- Describe a topic idea or concept you find so engaging it makes you lose track of time. Why does it interest you and what do you do when you want to learn more?
• Choose one: Think of the place(s) you grew up or consider home. What lessons have you learned living there and how have they shaped who you are today? -or- What are you known for among people who know you well? What would you like to be known for and how will college help you achieve that?

PNACAC Scholarship

• Record a video (no more than one minute in length) responding to one of the following prompts. What would you like to be doing in 10 years, and how does college help you get there? -or-
• How has your college/career counselor, school counselor or advisor helped you (and/or others) in finding the right college fit and what would you like to say to them?

College essay resources

How to pick the right university of oregon essay prompts, school supplements.

In the University of Oregon application, you’ll have the opportunity to choose 1 of 2 prompts for the Equality and Inclusion essay. This essay is optional, but we recommend completing it to maximize your chances and show that you’re a great fit for UO. This guide will help you pick the best University of Oregon essay prompt for your application.

The Equality and Inclusion essay:

This essay is an opportunity to show that you share UO’s values. You’ll need to choose 1 of 2 prompts. Here are some tips to help you choose a University of Oregon essay prompt:

Option #1: Describe an experience with discrimination, whether it was fighting against discrimination or recognizing your contribution to discriminating against a person or group. What did you learn from the experience? In what ways will you bring those lessons to the University of Oregon?

If you’ve had an experience that might fit this prompt, try answering these questions:

• Did you learn something from this experience?
• Was this experience important to you?
• Did it have a lasting impact on your actions, interests, values, or goals?

If you answered yes to these questions, this prompt is a good option for you!

Option #2: The University of Oregon values difference, and we take pride in our diverse community. Please explain how you will share your experiences, values and interests with our community. In what ways can you imagine offering your support to others?

This prompt gives you more freedom. Most students will have something in their life that fits this prompt – but it can be difficult to identify it.

• Is your topic something you want to share or discuss with your peers?
• Can you think of specific situations where you could share it with others at UO?

If you answered yes to both, then your topic is off to a good start! 

Complementing Your Common App Essay

When choosing a University of Oregon essay prompt, think about how it works with your Common App essay. Try to use your UO essay to discuss a different interest, value, or goal.

Here’s how an example student handled this:

• Common App essay topic: Advocated for better wheelchair accessibility in her community
• UO essay topic (Prompt #2): Mentored underserved middle schoolers in STEM program; wants to be a peer tutor at UO.

 Her Common App essay had similar themes to UO Prompt #1, so she decided to use UO Prompt #2 instead. This allowed her to discuss different interests and values.

The Additional Information Essay

The University of Oregon application has a second optional essay. It allows you to share additional information or context about life circumstances that may have limited your academic or extracurricular achievements.

Additional Information Prompt:

This section can be used for various purposes, and gives you an optional opportunity for discussing any of the following.

•Your academic record might have included periods of low performance such as grades of D or F, inconsistent or downward trends in grades, deficiencies in particular subject areas, or discrepancies between your test scores and GPA. This might be because of special personal circumstances such as death or illness of a parent, caring for a family member, homelessness, frequent moves, or due to learning disabilities/differences or study habits. If relevant, be sure to let us know what actions you have taken in order to be successful, and what you have learned from the experience.

•You want to help us better understand how your involvement in activities was limited by work or family obligations, or by the unique setting of your school or community

•You need to share any other information with us about yourself that is not provided elsewhere, or UO admissions staff told you to provide certain information in this space

• This prompt is optional. You don’t need to use it unless you have circumstances to explain.
• Note: the Common Application has a similar prompt. If you’ve already written about a topic in the Common App’s Additional Information essay, then you don’t need to repeat the same material here.

The Robert D. Clark Honors Essay

Oregon has a new choose-one-of three honors essay prompt for 2019-20!  If you want to go that extra step and get into the honors college, here's what you have to choose from.

The CHC faculty are involved in the review of applications to the Honors College, and are eager to learn about how you think, and how your mind works. Please write an essay that responds to one of the three quotations below. Reflect on how the quotation relates to your own experience, beliefs, and attitudes.

Select one of the three quotes listed below. (650 word maximum).

• Hannah Arendt: "Education is the point at which we decide whether we love the world enough to assume responsibility for it, and by the same token save it from that ruin which except for renewal, except for the coming of the new and the young, would be inevitable."
• Maya Angelou: "Prejudice is a burden that confuses the past, threatens the future, and renders the present inaccessible." 
• John Steinbeck: "I wonder how many people I've looked at all my life and never seen.”

There's a trap in this prompt!  Even though you are responding to some very deep philosophical quotes, you don't want to spend this essay making broad philosophical statements.  Instead, follow that last sentence of the prompt and relate your quote to one of your own real-life experiences.

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Choose your application

Apply to the University of Oregon using our online application  or the Common Application .

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You'll be asked to provide your self-reported academic record . When we evaluate applications , ACT/SAT scores are not required . If you have any questions, be sure to contact your admissions counselor .

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Stay engaged and discover all that the UO has to offer. We encourage you to visit our campus to experience what makes this place so special. Explore our Academic Residential Communities  and learn how they can support your adjustment to college life, no matter what major you are considering. If you have any questions about admissions or financial aid , please contact us.

Writing the University of Oregon Optional Supplemental Essay

Written by Sara Calvert-Kubrom on October 17th, 2018

• essay prompts ,
• writing college essays ,
• Reflect on what it means to be a Duck, who you are, and what you would contribute to the campus. Essentially, demonstrate why you are a strong fit for Oregon and why Oregon is a strong fit for you. For my sister-in-law (a very proud alumnus), she was raised cheering for Duck football in Autzen Stadium and watching the rich life-long friendships her parents formed during their time as students at Oregon. She was drawn to the sense of community, the diversity of academic options, and a sorority with a rich commitment to community service and engagement. In exploring this topic, I encourage you to review Oregon’s mission statement and explore information about “ Duck Life ” and academics so that you can highlight specific examples of how you are an excellent fit and ways that you will impact the community.
• Reflect on your thoughts and experiences recognizing difference and supporting equity and inclusion. A close friend of mine who attended Oregon is especially proud of the university’s recent dedication to equity and inclusion and the robust scholarly and student life programming focused on welcoming and embracing all forms of diversity. As you reflect on your own experiences with diversity (this could be from your experiences based on your own identity, or through interacting with others), review the Equity and Inclusion website to learn about campus initiatives, statistics, and programming. In this prompt, connect your experiences with examples of how you would contribute to Oregon’s efforts around equity and inclusion. Be specific.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, college essay prompts: complete list, analysis, and advice.

College Admissions , College Essays

When talking about college essays, we tend to focus on the Common Application prompts , and it's true that many students will need to write a Common App essay. However, there are actually quite a few schools, including both public and private universities, that don't use the Common App and instead ask applicants to respond to their own college essay prompts.

Luckily, college essay prompts tend to be pretty similar to each other. In this guide, I'll list all the college essay questions for popular schools in the US (and a few abroad) and then break down the patterns to help you brainstorm topics and plan how to approach multiple essays efficiently. After reading this guide, you'll be able to strategize which essays you'll write for which colleges.

Feature image: Mayr /Flickr

Why Do Colleges Ask For an Essay?

The short answer: the essay gives admissions committees a sense of your personality beyond the statistics on the rest of your application. The essay is your chance to show the committee your unique perspective and impress them with your maturity and insight.

College application essay prompts are written with this goal in mind. Admissions officers want to give you the chance to share your interests, aspirations, and views on the world, so most prompts ask about how your experiences have shaped you or what you're excited about studying or doing in college. I've collected a ton of examples below and provided some analysis to help you begin planning and crafting your own essays.

Keep in mind that the personal statement alone won't be enough to get you in— your grades and test scores are still the most important factors in your application . That being said, a stellar essay can help bring a borderline applicant over the top or give an excellent but not extraordinary student the opportunity to stand out in a competitive applicant pool.

As such, the essay tends to matter most for very competitive schools. Non-competitive schools generally don't ask you to submit an essay.

Complete List of College Essay Prompts

This list collects the 2022 college essay prompts for major state universities, top-50 schools, and other popular schools which have their own unique questions. They're divided by region, with all optional essays listed at the end.

I left off the Common App supplements, as those often require a substantially different approach. I also stuck to four-year schools, meaning I didn't include special two-year programs, such as Deep Springs College or Miami Dade College's Honors Program (both of which require essays).

Finally, note that these prompts are for freshman applicants, so the requirements might be different for transfer students .

General Applications

There are three general applications you can use to apply to many different schools at once:

Common Application

Universal college application, coalition application.

Each application has its own personal statement requirement. Some schools will ask for additional supplemental essays.

Many more schools accept the Common App than they do the UCA or Coalition Application , though some will accept more than one of these applications.

For the Common App essay, you pick one of the prompts and write 250-650 words about it. Here are the prompts for the 2022-2023 school year:

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Describe a problem you've solved or a problem you'd like to solve. It can be an intellectual challenge, a research query, an ethical dilemma—anything that is of personal importance, no matter the scale. Explain its significance to you and what steps you took or could be taken to identify a solution.

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

The UCA essay prompt is completely open ended and has a 650-word limit. Here is the 2022-2023 prompt:

Please write an essay that demonstrates your ability to develop and communicate your thoughts. Some ideas include: a person you admire; a life-changing experience; or your viewpoint on a particular current event.

For the Coalition Application, you'll pick one of five prompts listed below. While there is no hard word limit, the range guidelines are 500-650 words. Here are the prompts for 2022-2023:

What interests or excites you? How does it shape who you are now or who you might become in the future?

Describe a time when you had a positive impact on others. What were the challenges? What were the rewards?

Has there been a time when an idea or belief of yours was questioned? How did you respond? What did you learn?

What success have you achieved or obstacle have you faced? What advice would you give a sibling or friend going through a similar experience?

Now that you know the essay requirements for the three general applications, let’s look at the application essays for specific schools . To keep things organized, we’ve grouped schools based on the region of the US in which they’re located.

Northeast/Mid-Atlantic

The Great Dome at MIT

Georgetown University

Georgetown asks applicants to write one short essay (about half a single-spaced page) and two longer essays (approximately one single-spaced page each). Each applicant must respond to the first two prompts and can choose among the other four based on the specific program she's interested in.

Short Essay: Briefly (approximately one-half page, single-spaced) discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved.

All Applicants: As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief essay, either personal or creative, which you feel best describes you.

Applicants to Georgetown College: What does it mean to you to be educated? How might Georgetown College help you achieve this aim? (Applicants to the Sciences and Mathematics or the Faculty of Languages and Linguistics should address their chosen course of study).

Applicants to the School of Nursing & Health Studies: Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying health care. Please specifically address your intended major (Global Health, Health Care Management & Policy, Human Science, or Nursing).

Applicants to the Walsh School of Foreign Service: The Walsh School of Foreign Service was founded more than a century ago to prepare generations of leaders to solve global problems. What is motivating you to dedicate your undergraduate studies to a future in service to the world?

Applicants to the McDonough School of Business: The McDonough School of Business is a national and global leader in providing graduates with essential ethical, analytical, financial and global perspectives. Please discuss your motivations for studying business at Georgetown.

For more Georgetown application tips, check out our articles on the Georgetown essays and how to get into Georgetown .

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

MIT doesn't ask for a single personal statement but rather asks applicants to respond to a series of questions with just a paragraph or two of about 200 words each .

We know you lead a busy life, full of activities, many of which are required of you. Tell us about something you do simply for the pleasure of it.

Describe the world you come from (for example, your family, clubs, school, community, city, or town). How has that world shaped your dreams and aspirations?

MIT brings people with diverse backgrounds and experiences together to better the lives of others. Our students work to improve their communities in different ways, from tackling the world’s biggest challenges to being a good friend. Describe one way you have collaborated with people who are different from you to contribute to your community.

Tell us about a significant challenge you've faced (that you feel comfortable sharing) or something that didn't go according to plan. How did you manage the situation?

For more details on how to get into MIT , read our other articles on the MIT application process , tips for MIT essays , and an example of a real MIT acceptance letter !

University of Wisconsin, Madison

Indiana University Bloomington

IU asks for 200-400 words on your plans and interests.

Describe your academic and career plans and any special interest (for example, undergraduate research, academic interests, leadership opportunities, etc.) that you are eager to pursue as an undergraduate at Indiana University. If you encountered any unusual circumstances, challenges, or obstacles in pursuit of your education, share those experiences and how you overcame them. Please note that this essay may be used in scholarship consideration.

University of Illinois

The University of Illinois asks for two essays (or three only if you selected a second-choice major other than what's noted on your application). All responses should be approximately 150 words.

You'll answer two to three prompts as part of your application. The questions you'll answer will depend on whether you're applying to a major or to our undeclared program, and if you've selected a second choice. Each response should be approximately 150 words. If You're Applying to a Major: 1.  Explain, in detail, an experience you've had in the past 3 to 4 years related to your first-choice major. This can be an experience from an extracurricular activity, in a class you’ve taken, or through something else. 2.  Describe your personal and/or career goals after graduating from UIUC and how your selected first-choice major will help you achieve them. If You're Applying to Our Undeclared Program in the Division of General Studies: 1.  What are your academic interests and strengths? You may also include any majors you are considering. 2.  What are your future academic or career goals? If You've Selected a Second-Choice Major (Including Undeclared): Please explain your interest in your second-choice major or your overall academic or career goals.

If you're applying to UIUC, check out our UIUC essay tips article as well!

University of Wisconsin–Madison

All applicants must complete two essays for UW–Madison. The essays should be 250-650 words in length and may be used for scholarship and campus program review.

If you apply through the Common Application, you’ll be asked to reply to one of the freshman Common Application essays in lieu of the first essay prompt below, but you’ll be required to respond to the second prompt below. 

If you apply through the UW System Application, the following two essays are required:

This part is all about you. Tell us about something you've done — academically or personally — and what you've learned from it. Was it a success or a challenge? Did it represent a turning point in your life? How did this particular moment in your life influence you, and how will it continue to influence you as you pursue your college education?

Tell us why you would like to attend the University of Wisconsin–Madison. In addition, please include why you are interested in studying the major(s) you have selected. If you selected undecided please describe your areas of possible academic interest.

Kyle Field at Texas A&M ( Ed Schipul /Flickr)

The ApplyTexas application is used by all Texas public universities and some private colleges. There are four ApplyTexas essay prompts. Which ones you need to respond to will depend on where you're applying. UT Austin, for example, requires applicants to submit at least one essay responding to Topic A on the ApplyTexas application. .

While there's no set word limit, the online application will cut off each essay at 120 lines (~1000 words).

Topic A: Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today?

Topic B: Most students have an identity, an interest, or a talent that defines them in an essential way. Tell us about yourself.

Topic C: You've got a ticket in your hand – Where will you go? What will you do? What will happen when you get there?

Topic D: Please Note: The essay in this section is specific to certain college majors and is not required by all colleges/universities that accept the Apply Texas Application. If you are not applying for a major in Architecture, Art, Art History, Design, Studio Art, Visual Art Studies/Art Education , you are not required to write this essay.

Personal interaction with objects, images and spaces can be so powerful as to change the way one thinks about particular issues or topics. For your intended area of study (architecture, art history, design, studio art, visual art studies/art education), describe an experience where instruction in that area or your personal interaction with an object, image or space effected this type of change in your thinking. What did you do to act upon your new thinking and what have you done to prepare yourself for further study in this area?

We go into all the ApplyTexas prompts in detail here !

University of Georgia

For UGA, applicants must write two essays, one 200-300 words and one 250-650 words . Both essays are required for all applicants. The longer personal essay uses the Common Application prompts for 2023 ; the prompt for the shorter essay is as follows:

The c ollege admissions process can create anxiety. In an attempt to make it less stressful, please tell us an interesting or amusing story about yourself from your high school years that you have not already shared in your application.

For a more detailed discussion of the UGA essays, read this article .

The Campanile at UC Berkeley

University of California

Students applying to the UC system must respond to four out of eight short personal insight questions. The maximum word count for each response is 350 words.

• Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.
• Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.
• What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?
• Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.
• Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?
• Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.
• What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?
• Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

Learn more about the UC essays , the UC application , and how to choose which UC schools to apply to with our complete guides .

University of Oregon

Applicants to the University of Oregon are required to submit one essay of 650 words or fewer. You also have the option to write a second essay (maximum of 500 words), but it’s not required.

The essay prompts are as follows:

The UO is interested in learning more about you. Write an essay of 650 words or less that shares information that we cannot find elsewhere on your application. Any topic you choose is welcome. Some ideas you might consider include your future ambitions and goals, a special talent, extracurricular activity, or unusual interest that sets you apart from your peers, or a significant experience that influenced your life. If you are applying to the UO's Robert D. Clark Honors College, feel free to resubmit your honors college application essay.

Optional second essay: As you've looked into what it will be like to attend Oregon, you've hopefully learned what makes Ducks Ducks. No two are alike, though, so tell us what makes you you, and how that connects to our campus community. We are interested in your thoughts and experiences recognizing difference and supporting equity and inclusion, and choosing one of these two options will guide you in sharing those thoughts. You can learn more about equity and inclusion at Oregon by visiting the Equity and Inclusion website . Maximum statement length is 500 words. This statement is not required.

University of Washington

In addition to its specific prompts, the University of Washington gives specific advice about what its admissions officers consider to be good writing before the prompts:

"At the UW, we consider the college essay as our opportunity to see the person behind the transcripts and the numbers. Some of the best statements are written as personal stories. In general, concise, straightforward writing is best, and good essays are often 300-400 words in length.

Essay Prompt (Required): Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped shape it. Maximum length: 650 words.

Short Response (Required): Our families and our communities often define us and our individual worlds. Community might refer to your cultural group, extended family, religious group, neighborhood or school, sports team or club, co-workers, etc. Describe the world you come from and how you, as a product of it, might add to the diversity of the UW. Maximum length: 300 words

You can also find more tips on the University of Washington essays in this blog article .

International

Generally speaking, international schools are less likely to ask for an essay, since admission tends to be heavily focused on grades and test results. However, a few popular international schools do ask for a personal statement as part of their application.

Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UK Schools)

UCAS is a general application for UK schools (similar to the Common App in the US). There's no specific prompt for the personal statement—instead, applicants are required to write an essay describing what they want to study, why they want to study it, and what they bring to the table. There is a 4,000-character/47-line limit.

University of British Columbia

UBC asks applicants to fill out a personal profile consisting of five to seven short-answer questions that vary depending on the program you're applying to. Answers should be 50-200 words.

Depending on which degree program you apply to, you’ll be asked to answer some or all of the following questions on the UBC application:

• Tell us about who you are. How would your family, friends, and/or members of your community describe you? If possible, please include something about yourself that you are most proud of and why.
• What is important to you? And why?
• Family/community responsibilities
• Creative or performing arts
• Work/employment
• Service to others
• Tell us more about one or two activities listed above that are most important to you. Please explain the role you played and what you learned in the process. You will be asked for a reference who can speak to your response.
• Additional information: You may wish to use the space below to provide UBC with more information on your academic history to date and/or your future academic plans. For example: How did you choose your courses in secondary school? Are there life circumstances that have affected your academic decisions to date? What have you done to prepare yourself specifically for your intended area of study at UBC?
• Please submit the names of two referees who know you well and can comment on your preparedness for study at UBC. Examples of referees include an employer, a community member, a coach, a teacher/instructor, or anyone who knows you well. One of the referees you select must be able to speak to one of the activities/experiences described in one of your long-answer responses above. For applicants who are currently attending a high school, one of your referees must be a school official (e.g., Grade 12 or senior year counsellor, teacher, or IB coordinator). Neither referee should be a friend, family member, or paid agent.

Some programs of study may ask applicants to respond to the questions above and some additional, program-specific questions when completing the personal profile.

University of Cambridge

Optional Essays

Some schools don't require an essay from all applicants but do recommend or require an essay for certain programs. I've listed a selection of those prompts below.

Arizona State University

Students applying to the Barrett Honors College at ASU must submit one essay of 300 to 500 words in response to one of the following prompts (your response may be critical or creative):

Prompt 1 Discuss how a specific piece of art (painting, literature, photograph, etc.) or popular culture (song, comic book, etc.) helped you realize something new about yourself or the world. What was that realization, and how did the piece of art or pop culture bring about this change in your thinking? Do not simply describe the piece of art or pop culture; instead, focus on its effect on you and how it makes you a good fit for the Barrett Honors College experience. Prompt 2 Tell us about a habit or way of thinking that others would recognize as “uniquely you.” This is something you value and would hesitate to give up because it is a distinct part of who you are or what makes you different - why is it so? Be sure to share how this aspect of your identity makes you a good fit for the Barrett Honors College experience.

City University of New York

Applicants to Macaulay Honors College must write two essays: an “about you” essay, and an essay describing your plans for college. Each response should be around 500 words, give or take a few within reason.

Essay 1: About you. (Select one of the options below.) Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story. OR Tell us about an area or activity, outside of academics, in which you have invested a lot of time and effort. Tell us why. What did you learn? How was it meaningful?

Essay 2: About your plans for college. Please discuss all points below. Why do you want to go to an honors college ? There are many benefits of being a Macaulay student, such as the Macaulay community, special courses, Honors advisement, cultural passport, opportunities funds, and other financial benefits. Please describe how these features will shape you and your college experience, including, what you expect to bring to the college community and what you expect to get out of your college experience.

Florida International University

Only applicants who don't meet the criteria for automatic admissions and whose applications undergo holistic review will need to submit a 500-word essay:

Students requesting appeal or additional review of their admission status must submit a written statement including:

Your goals and educational or professional objectives

A summary/explanation of past academic performance

Information and/or circumstances that may have affected past academic performance

• Any other information the student wishes to have considered

Ohio University

For the Ohio University application, students who've been out of school for more than a year must submit an essay explaining what they've done in their time off from school.

Applicants who have been out of high school for more than one year must submit an essay detailing activities since graduation.

Additionally, applicants to the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism are encouraged, though not required, to submit an essay detailing how they want to help shape the future of journalism.

For all other applicants, submitting an essay here is optional; however, if you do wish to write an essay, the application suggests that you describe any academic challenges you’ve faced, academic and career objectives, or involvement in community affairs (recommended length is 250-500 words).

Those interested in Ohio University's OHIO Honors Program (including the Cutler Scholars Program) are required to answer the following essay prompt (limit 250 words):

Students in the OHIO Honors Program represent all majors on campus and take engaging honors courses while applying what they learn outside of the classroom. Students choose from classes and experiences across three pathways: community engagement, research and creative activity, and leadership . Students in OHP can move among the three pathways as their interests evolve and they develop their goals. What pathway is most exciting to you right now, and why?

Finally, those interested in the Honors Tutorial College are must answer the following two essay prompts (in about 500 words each):

HTC Question 1: Please explain why you have chosen your particular program(s) of study.

HTC Question 2: We expect that one reason you seek a tutorial education is for the one-on-one interaction with faculty, but other than that, what interests you about pursuing a tutorial-based undergraduate education? What aspects of your education and life experience have prepared you for a tutorial education with its emphasis on research and creative activity?

University of Central Florida

The essays for UCF are optional but recommended. Applicants are provided two prompts and may compose responses of no more than 250 words each.

Why are you interested in UCF?

Discuss your reasons for pursuing the academic program (major) selected above.

UCF applicants also have the option (but are not required) to write a response to one of the Common App personal essay prompts.

For tips on how to write the UCF essays, read this article .

University of Kansas

Applicants to KU's honors program must answer one of the following three essay prompts in 500 words or fewer:

Option 1: KU’s Gunn Center for the Study of Science Fiction fosters a community “exploring the limitless potential of the human imagination, whether that be to question, to play, or to dream the future.” Envision a future — imaginative or realistic — and describe your role in it. Option 2: Author, professor, and autism advocate Temple Grandin has often spoken about how the world needs “different kinds of minds.” Discuss how considering perspectives or problem-solving approaches different from your own will strengthen the work you do at KU and beyond. Option 3: Part of KU’s mission is to “lift students and society” by making “discoveries that change the world.” What kind of personal or academic discoveries do you hope to make at KU — and why?

University of Nebraska, Lincoln

UNL doesn't require applicants to submit an essay, but you will need to write one to be considered for scholarships. There is a 500-word limit.

Tell us about the experiences that have shaped you as a person—the family or community circumstances you've overcome, your leadership or service experiences, your career goals, examples of your commitment to help your family or under-served communities, or experiences you've had with the global community.

University of Utah

Applicants to the Honors College must complete an essay using the Common Application. The maximum word length is 650 words.

The prompts you may choose from on the Common Application are as follows:

1. (In 250 words) Your first semester at college, you find you must take a required course in a discipline you have never been interested in exploring. What happens next is... 2. (In 250 words) What is it that interests you about the Liberal Arts and Sciences education (hint: look this term up) offered by the Honors College?

Applicants to the Business Scholars Program must complete an additional essay. There is no word limit, but U of U recommends keeping answers between 250-500 words.

Exploration, perpetual learning and development, and a passion for the world of business are essential traits of Business Scholars. Describe a time in your life when you experienced something impactful, challenging, or new and how that experience encouraged you to be the person you are today and will help you be successful in business.

Type 1: Questions About a Meaningful Experience

This type of college essay question is the most common. The exact focus of these prompts can vary quite a bit, but they all ask you to reflect on an important experience. Some questions specify a type of experience whereas others don't, simply opting to have applicants write about whatever matters to them.

There are three basic sub-types that you'll see when dealing with these prompts. Let's look at an example of each.

#1: Overcoming a Challenge

These prompts ask about how you dealt with a particular challenge or solved a problem. Below is a typical example of this question type from the MIT application:

Tell us about the most significant challenge you've faced or something important that didn't go according to plan. How did you manage the situation?

To address a question like this, you need a topic that has real stakes —that is, something that you genuinely struggled with. Even though it can seem as though you should only discuss positive experiences and feelings in your college essay (you want to impress your readers with how awesome you are!), unwavering positivity actually hurts your essay because it makes you seem fake.

Instead, be honest : if you're writing about a negative experience, acknowledge that it was unpleasant or hard and explain why. Doing so will just make your overcoming it that much more impressive.

#2: Engaging With Diversity

Questions about diversity ask how you interact with those who are different from you . See an example below from the Common Application:

When approaching this type of question, you need to show that you're thoughtful about new ideas and perspectives. Colleges are full of students from all kinds of backgrounds, and admissions officers want to know that you'll be accepting of the diversity of other students, even if you don't necessarily agree with them.

Also, make sure to pick a specific instance to focus on. Writing a general essay about how you accept others won't impress admissions officers—you need to show them an example of a time that you did so.

#3: Growing Up

Finally, this type of prompt asks about a transitional experience or rite of passage that made you feel like an adult. I've reprinted another example from the Common App:

For these types of prompts, you want to show personal growth. Explain to the reader not just who you are but also how you've changed . (Really, this is a good idea no matter which prompt you're addressing!)

College can be challenging, so admissions officers want to know that you have the maturity to deal with (likely) living on your own, managing your own life, and planning for your future.

Regardless of the exact prompt, the key to this type of college essay is to show what you've learned from the experience. Admissions officers don't care that much about what happened to you—they care about what you think and feel about that event. That's what will give them a sense of who you are and what kind of college student you'll make.

Once you write a first draft, put it in a drawer for a week. Taking some time away from it will allow you to come back to it with fresh eyes. Then, try to read your essay from the perspective of someone who knows nothing about you. Would they be able to understand the story? Do you explain clearly what you learned? Does your intro grab the reader's attention?

It can also be helpful to ask someone you trust, such as a parent, teacher, or peer, to read your essay and give you feedback. Really listen to what they say and think about how you can improve your writing.

Finally, try reading your essay aloud. This will help you catch any weird or awkward phrasings.

What's Next?

If you're struggling with how to approach your personal statement, consider looking at some college essay examples .

The essay is just one part of the college application process. Check out our guide to applying to college for a step-by-step breakdown of what you'll need to do.

Finally, if you're planning to take the SAT or ACT , consider taking a look at our expert test-prep guides for some helpful advice on whatever you might be struggling with.

Alex is an experienced tutor and writer. Over the past five years, she has worked with almost a hundred students and written about pop culture for a wide range of publications. She graduated with honors from University of Chicago, receiving a BA in English and Anthropology, and then went on to earn an MA at NYU in Cultural Reporting and Criticism. In high school, she was a National Merit Scholar, took 12 AP tests and scored 99 percentile scores on the SAT and ACT.

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Clark honors college menu, clark honors college, essay tips & prompt, the clark honors college essay requirements for admission .

Applying to the Clark Honors College requires two different essays:

• One using the Honors College prompt
• One from either the Oregon Application Personal Statement or the Common Application*

The UO general essay topic cannot be used to fulfill the Clark Honors College essay. You must complete both of them. 

(*Note: On the Common Application, the Honors College essay prompt will appear immediately below the honors question on your screen when you answer “yes” to apply.) 

Clark Honors College essay instructions: 

The Honors College strives to be a diverse, welcoming, and inclusive place. When faculty and staff review the applications, they are looking to see how you think and how your mind works. The best essays: 

• demonstrate effective storytelling 
• include thoughtful analysis 
• synthesize themes in a meaningful way 
• give a sense of your personality and unique perspective 

The CHC essay prompt:

Curiosity and breadth of interests are defining characteristics of Clark Honors College students. We value originality and want to learn more about your unique journey and the nature and breadth of your intellectual curiosity.

Please tell us about a specific enthusiasm that showcases your curiosity and intellectual engagement with the world. Your chosen enthusiasm or passion can be from any domain—academic, artistic, scientific, cultural, or any other area that has captivated your interest. Be thoughtful and provide concrete examples to support your response.

Please limit your response to a maximum of 500 words.

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The personal statement.

Your Personal Statement should narrate your personal and intellectual development. It should illustrate how the proposed experience is the next logical and necessary step in your life, and how you are qualified to carry it out. It is your opportunity to illustrate what a unique and exceptional individual you are. Here are questions to consider while writing:

• Overall, is your Personal Statement interesting and easy to read? Does it show, rather than tell, who you are?
• Does your Personal Statement demonstrate your motivation and ability to work independently?
• Does your Personal Statement show who you are, and make the reader want to know you better?
• Do you demonstrate your experience and interest in becoming a leader and innovator in your field?
• Will the reader feel confident you would represent the funding agency well?
• Do you maintain a theme or connecting concept throughout your Personal Statement?
• Does your Personal Statement explore connections between your academic life and the rest of your life?
• Do you repeat information included in other parts of your application? Omit repeated information unless it is absolutely necessary, e.g., further explanation or emphasis.

Mistakes often made by applicants when writing a Personal Statement:

• Turning the Personal Statement into an extended version of a resume. Applicants often ask how they should incorporate activities into their essay when they have already listed them separately on the application. Leave out less important things (or limit items that ate not critical to the Personal Statement to other portions of your application—there are sections in the scholarship application for listing honors, awards, and activities).
• Exaggerating your history and situation. Do not believe that all applicants expand on the truth. Experienced interviewers often uncover exaggeration during interviews. This can be embarrassing and disastrous for an applicant.
• Being overly clever or cute in writing the Personal Statement. Selection committees have read quite literally hundreds of essays, and they find overly clever essays annoying. This reaction can do nothing but harm the future of your application.

writing_a_personal_statement_handout.png

Additional Resources for Writing a Personal Statement: 

• How to Write an Excellent Personal Statement in 14 Days - 2 pager from our office 
• Write a Great Personal Statement  - 2 pager from OSU's Career Development Center 
• Tips for Becoming a Strong Applicant  - 1 pager from our office 
• Shitty First Drafts - Essay by Anne Lamott  

The Statement of Purpose

Statements of Purpose are usually limited in length.  Use your space wisely to fully describe your project or purpose. You should cover the essential details of your project or purpose within the first or second paragraph.

The Statement of Purpose should demonstrate that you are able to plan and implement a successful research project or course of study. Statement of Purpose is your guide to completing your study and meeting your objectives. The Statement of Purpose should be as specific as possible, while also being flexible enough  to allow for adjustments in response to unanticipated circumstances.

Ask yourself the following questions during your writing and editing processes:

• Overall, is the Statement of Purpose persuasive, direct, concise, and easy to read? Short (three or four-sentence) paragraphs can be very effective.
• Does the Statement of Purpose emphasize the relevance and significance of the project from start to finish?
• Does the first paragraph answer who, what, when, where, why, and how?
• Do the subsequent paragraphs detail what you propose to do and how you will do it?
• Is the timeline realistic, specific, acceptable, and appropriate? Does it include any pre- and post-grant plans?
• Are there clearly defined, achievable goals and objectives (the activities/steps to reach your goals), concrete outcomes, and measurable results?
• Does the proposal fit within the context of your academic experience and skills?
• Are the methodology and activities comprehensive, relevant, appropriate, feasible, and approved/approvable, if necessary?
• Does the proposal include an explanation of your field of study and the context of the project?
• If applicable, does the proposal describe with whom you will work, the support that they have offered to give you, and the significance of this assistance?
• Does the proposal demonstrate why the project or study needs to be at the proposed location/university, the resources provided, and how your collaborators will benefit from your work there?
• Does the proposal demonstrate that you have the academic background necessary for your project?
• Does the proposal clearly explain your future plans (immediate and long-term) and how your work will help further your academic and/or professional development?
• Does the proposal leave the reader with a sense of why your project should be supported?
• Does the closing paragraph of the proposal reemphasize what you will achieve and what makes your project exciting, necessary and unique?

Overall, the Statement of Purpose should be compelling and easily understood by both an educated “lay” person and an expert in your field. Since you do not know exactly who will read your application at the national (and/or international) level, write a proposal that is clear and comprehensible to someone who knows nothing about your subject, while also specific and detailed enough to convince an expert. Do not be afraid to use language or concepts specific to your field and to reference the work of other authors. If your project is highly technical, about 75% of your proposal should be easily understood by all readers

Links to Essay Writing Tips

500 Prompts for Narrative and Personal Writing

How to Win a Graduate Fellowship

Writing Personal Statements Online

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Test Optional Admissions

Oregon State University has a test-optional admissions policy for first-year students.

You can decide to submit standardized test scores if you think they add something of value to our review, or you can choose not to submit them if you want us to focus more intently on your high school record and other supporting documents.  The choice is yours.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the factors/items that osu considers in its admission review.

Oregon State University has a holistic admissions process which looks at the following items for each of our applicants, with the goal of identifying and admitting students who have the skills, abilities, and drive to succeed at OSU:

• Your high school grades
• Rigor of coursework, considered in the context of options at your school
• Grades in any college or dual-credit courses
• Information provided in your personal statement on the application
• Your responses to one of our available application essay prompts

Test scores, if submitted, are never the sole or primary reason for an admissions decision; they are always considered in context and as supplemental information.

OSU does not require letters of recommendation except when a student is appealing a denial, but will consider any recommendations provided.

When do I need to indicate if I plan to submit test scores as part of my application file?

You’ll be asked to tell us whether or not you will supply a test score at the time you apply for admission. This allows us to wait on making an admission decision until we’ve received a score, should you decide to submit, or to proceed once the other materials in your application have been received if you decide to apply test optional.

If you decide to submit an SAT or ACT score you’ve already taken, we prefer that you self-report them on the application, as this saves you time and money.

If you apply test-optional, but you’ve already sent us a test score, or they are included on your transcript, we will remove them from our review process.

We do ask all students who have taken a test to submit it if they decide to enroll.  This is simply for research purposes and cannot affect admission or financial aid. The SAT college code for Oregon State University is 4586. The ACT college code for Oregon State University is 3482.

What if I change my mind about submitting a test score after I apply?

If you indicated you would not be sending a test score and decide to do so before we’ve made an admission decision, you can let us know in your application portal. You may decide to add a test score during the appeal of a decision.

How will I be considered for scholarships without test scores?

Oregon State University is committed to making scholarship opportunities available to students who qualify, whether they apply with or without test scores. Like the admissions decision-making process, test scores will not be used to disqualify students from scholarships unless otherwise indicated in our scholarship application system.

Are test scores required for scholarship or Honors College consideration?

Scholarship opportunities  are available to students who qualify, whether they apply with or without test scores. Applying test-optional will not be disqualify students from scholarships unless otherwise indicated in our scholarship application system.

Admission to the Honors College  is competitive. Selection criteria for an incoming first-year student is based on cumulative unweighted high school GPA and the response to the essay question. SAT or ACT scores are optional but can be used to apply if students do not meet the minimum GPA requirement. The strength of courses taken in high school, as well as personal or academic attributes that will enrich the Honors community, are also considered.

Are test scores required for admission to specific programs?

Test scores are not required for admission to any programs at OSU. Your intended major is just for advising purposes and is not considered as part of an admissions decision.

If I apply test-optional, is there an essay or explanation required?

Students who apply test-optional will not be required to provide an additional essay or explanation. OSU only requires students to respond to one of the seven standard essay prompts. The Personal Statement is optional for all applicants.

How should I report my scores? Are official score reports required?

If you decide to submit an SAT or ACT score you’ve already taken at the time you apply, we prefer that you self-report them on the application. You can add or update test scores in your application portal after you apply as well.  OSU will validate self-reported scores.  Once an admission decision is made and before you enroll, we do ask for official score reports to be provided. This is simply for research purposes and cannot affect admission or financial aid. The SAT college code for Oregon State University is 4586. The ACT college code for Oregon State University is 3482.

Do you superscore ACT or SAT results?

We will consider the best composite score from an individual test date. We will not recalculate a new composite score from multiple test dates.

Do you require SAT Subject Tests?

SAT Subject Tests are not required for admission to Oregon State or any of our academic programs. Graduates of  non-standard or unaccredited high schools , or home-schooled students may decide to provide SAT subject tests for us to evaluate as part of their file, particularly if they do not have transferrable college credit.

Who do I contact if I have questions about this policy?

We invite you to reach out to your  admission counselor  or to contact the Office of Admissions at  541-737-4411  or  [email protected]  with any questions regarding the application process.

What are your chances of acceptance?

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How to Write the Oregon State University Essays 2020-2021

We’ve updated this post! Check out our 2021-2022 OSU essay guide .

Oregon State University is a public research institution located in the bucolic city of Corvallis, Oregon, in the midst of mountains, rivers, and forested streets. Like the beaver on OSU’s crest, OSU students prioritize hands-on solutions and learning: OSU receives more research funding than any other university in Oregon, and is esteemed for its top programs in forestry, oceanography, and robotics. OSU is also home to the Oregon Agricultural Experiment Station and the Oregon Forest Research Laboratory. 

Oregon State University has 77% acceptance rate. The middle 50% ACT range is 22-28, as of 2019. Applicants can apply via the Common Application or an OSU-specific portal. OSU requires applicants Honors College applicants submit six supplemental essays in addition to their application. 

So get ready to sink your beaver teeth into the quick of these supplemental essays! In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to tackle each and every one of Oregon State’s supplements so that your Honors application will shine!

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Required for Applicants to the Honors College

Prompt 1: “I try to show what it is about language and music that enthralls, because I think those are the two elements of poetry.” – Rita Dove

Drawing insights from the connection of multiple subjects or perspectives is the basis of interdisciplinary thinking, a central part of the Honors College curriculum. In the quote above, the poet Rita Dove observes that poetry gets its particular power from the combination of language and music. Choose something that is important to you, identify two of its components, characteristics, features, or attributes, and write an essay in which you examine how the two parts work together to make an outcome that is uniquely meaningful or important.

Be creative with this! “Something” can be anything – you can choose an academic subject, concept, activity, or a passion of yours. Successful responses will offer a unique and specific perspective that will stand out among the many essays the admissions committee will review (450-500 words)

Prompt 2: List any college credits you have completed. Include grades if applicable. (800 words)

Prompt 3: Knowledge in a field/creativity: Describe any special interests and how you have developed knowledge in these areas. Give examples of your creativity- the ability to see alternatives; take diverse perspectives; come up with many, varied, or original ideas; or willingness to try new things. (100 words)

Prompt 4: Dealing with adversity: Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to address this challenge. Include whether you turned to anyone in facing the challenge, the role the person played, and what you learned about yourself. (100 words)

Prompt 5: Handling systemic challenges: OSU remains committed to creating an inclusive environment and dismantling systems that perpetuate discrimination at various levels. How, specifically, will you contribute to furthering this commitment? (100 words)

Prompt 6: Goals/task commitment: Articulate the goals you have established for yourself and your efforts to accomplish these. Give at least one specific example that demonstrates your work ethic/diligence. (100 words)

Honors College, Prompt 1

“I try to show what it is about language and music that enthralls, because I think those are the two elements of poetry.” – Rita Dove

As specifically stated at the end of the prompt, this essay is not a personal narrative: it is a response to the question of “interdisciplinary thinking,” so your focus should be on your subject matter. 

Who was Rita Dove? Dove is a world-renowned poet and former Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress. OSU commended her with the Stone Award for literary achievement in 2016. Let’s look at her quote one more time: “I try to show what it is about language and music that enthralls, because I think those are the two elements of poetry .”

Here, Dove chose to explore the art of poetry, her personal specialty and passion, through two other disciplines: language and music. Thus, we arrive at your task: to write an essay about “something” and identify two of its components. The equation is A + B = C, but the ingredients should be surprising. OSU is essentially asking you to come up with your own version of “How is a raven like a writing desk?” The more random and incompatible you make the components A and B, the more likely you are to have a striking and memorable solution (C).

A successful essay will:

• Identify and present your “something” in a nuanced and intricate way.
• Dissect the nuances of two of its components, showing their interdisciplinary nature and how they contribute holistically to the “something.”
• Reveal an outcome that is “uniquely meaningful and important.”

Let’s begin!

1. Identify and present your “something” in a nuanced and intricate way 

Dove is a master of her craft. But this fact should not intimidate you – it should inspire! Dove is a master of poetry; what are you a master of? If an idea is not immediately coming to mind, don’t fret. Ask yourself the following questions:

• What odd thing could I talk extensively about?

Your expertise should be unique. This can be anything from multivariable calculus to crocheting. Start drafting a list of anything that comes to mind. Can you make the best chocolate chip cookies you have ever had? Solve a Rubix Cube in under a minute? Are you a photojournalist?

• What unique talents do I have?

The key word is Some fascinating essays come from the smallest, most unique parts of ourselves. Are you a gymnast?  Are you a physics whiz? Dig deep!

Once you have asked yourself those questions, narrow your list down until you choose the most memorable and unique expertise. That should be your “something.”

Now, you have to present it in an engaging way. Because the prompt specifically explicates to stay away from personal stories, you might want to not start with an anecdote. Ways to possibly start the essay include: a brief history of your interest in the subject; a problem that you have faced with this expertise; your favorite thing about your “something,” etc. Here’s an example:

I struggle to understand things I cannot see—the insolubility of immunoglobulins below a certain temperature, the tiny movements of electrons, the division of a cell. Although I’m a lifetime science enthusiast, it’s hard for me to visualize things that happen at a sub-microscopic level. In 9th grade, I lost my intellectual curiosity for science, because I was exhausted from rote memorization and opaque concepts. I missed my childhood experiments with magnetism, combustion, and projectiles. 

This all changed when I began to study physics.

Thermodynamics is the branch of physics that deals with energy, temperature, heat and work. I was asked to calculate the coefficient of friction on a car tire—something I had seen and could understand. I could picture an apple falling from a building and could calculate the trajectory of a thrown football. 

Here, we describe the “C” of the equation. What is this essay going to be about? Physics. You draw the reader in with a hook (“I struggle to understand things I cannot see….”). You can create a sense of conflict (no longer curious about science as you once were). Finally, you should create a setup for your “A” and “B” components. 

2. Dissect two of its components, showing their interdisciplinarity and how they contribute holistically to the “something”

Now that you have identified your “something,” you need to break it down into two distinct and unique parts. These parts should be specific, and, ideally, unexpected. Think back to Dove’s A + B = C quote: while “language” (A) seems like a logical component of “poetry” (C) Dove’s inclusion of “music” (B) is a bit more unexpected.

For example, given the physics example from above, you might use the formula A + B = C in the following manner. 

A = Mathematics. This is somewhat expected for physics. Perhaps you are fascinated by the reliability of formulas, or the satisfaction of getting the correct answer. The mathematical concepts reveal larger universal truths, and represent monumental discoveries. 

B= Imagination. This is the more unexpected component. Thermodynamics involves intense visualization. You can picture a car skidding around a banked curve. You can see the spiral of the football’s projectile. Thermodynamics involves drawing and directional force, which takes an intense imagination. 

C= Thermodynamics or Physics. 

This is just one example. Talking about swimming? Maybe that’s the perfect combination of physics and discipline. Talking about baking? Maybe that’s the perfect combination of science and improvisation. Even academic subjects should have two different, distinct parts. Mathematics? Structure and art. Ecology? Curiosity and kindness.

You should ensure that you have distinct points for each discipline. They should be different enough that there is zero, or little, overlap between them. Try to choose something that is not obvious—that provokes conversation and makes you a memorable applicant.

Here’s another example:

Daunted with the possibility of a white canvas, I know I can always rely on two ideas when I am stuck. Optical art, after all, is an amalgamation of mathematics and innovation.

When I was younger, I was fascinated by the geometry and mathematical concepts that occur naturally within nature. I would study the hexagonal outline of honeycombs, the concentric spread of tree rings, and the triangularity of palm leaves. When I am stuck—unable to choose what direction to take a work of art— I consider first, the shapes. What lines am I using? I look for parallelism and lines, scanning my piece for right angles or swirling parabolas. How is shape contributing to this piece?

But true art requires not just maths, but innovation. When I begin a work of art,, I am reminded of T.S. Eliot’s famous line from “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock:” “Do I dare disturb the universe?” As an artist, I must not just copy the universe – I must disturb it. I plan out my piece of art on several pieces of paper beforehand, trying to find the most innovative ways to communicate—whether that is through perspective, color, composition, or medium. I study the work of artists like Manami Sasaki, who creates stunning work out of toast. I am always looking to push the envelope and to expand boundaries.

Here, we have relied on the trustworthy A + B = C formula presented in the prompt. We start with an engaging hook to introduce “C”– a visual of a white canvas to represent art. Then, we present the two ideas: innovation (A: somewhat expected) and mathematics (B: somewhat unexpected). 

3. Reveal an outcome that is “uniquely meaningful and important”

Finally, what does your something accomplish? A great college essay will always “zoom out” to consider a larger societal picture, bigger problems, or how one’s subject is important for the world at large. For Dove, poems have motivated some of the greatest thinkers, have started revolutions, and have inspired creativity. What does your “something” (C) accomplish on a wider scale? Take care to also mention how each of its A + B components contribute to that.

For example, take an applicant who’s combining history (A) with communication (B) to get her result – baking (C). She can talk about how baking enables intergenerational encouragement to everyone, no matter their background. For example: 

 In the kitchen, I’m often greeted with a condescending smile or pat on the shoulder. “That is so cute that you bake cookies!” they’ll say, unknowingly.

“This cookie is a piece of history that you will never understand,” I want to tell them. I think of my great grandmother, painstakingly writing out her recipe on an index card with immaculate cursive. I think of the generations of women who have traced her spindly handwriting, eager to follow the next step. I think of my mother and her mother, and my grandmother and her mother—of the sheer power and strength of the women in my family.

“This cookie is my own,” I want to tell them. I want to tell them of the alterations I have made over the years, the trials of shortening the baking time, the addition of caramel, the introduction of sea salt and pretzel.

But I don’t tell them either of these things. I watch as they take their first bite. Their furrowed brow relaxes. Their posture shifts: closed to open. And a smile begins to creep across their face, perhaps the first one in a while. I am reminded of the picture book, The Gardener, I used to read with my mother in bed when I am younger, about the Great Depression.

“A cake is worth a thousand smiles.”

A cookie may seem like a small achievement, but it carries a huge cultural story. Generations of watching others smile. Generations of following and breaking (baking) rules, and not getting caught. Small success? Well. maybe. But in my opinion, the smallest victories always taste the sweetest.

Concluding with an outcome that is “uniquely meaningful and important” can be difficult–as you run the risk of sounding trite or cliche. Here, we reintegrate A and B to prove our thesis. Baking is an act of historicization, that is often unseeable or unnoticed. Baking is also a testament to trial and error. While both of these things are personally important, the real positive outcome is the joy it sparks in other people, however small.  

Honors College, Prompt 2

List any college credits you have completed. include grades if applicable. (800 words).

While a standard question, this essay has a surprisingly large word limit. If you have taken college credits, this is an opportunity to share more about the course(s), give a brief description, and address any successes or areas for growth.

Because you have so many words to work with, it’s advisable to share a narrative perspective of how you engaged with this college class – which is a huge undertaking. Fully flesh out what your experience was like, and how it influenced you as a scholar.

“This year, I was invited to take Introduction to Physics at the University of Connecticut (UConn) in Storrs. The class was a quantitative study of the basic facts and principles of physics with a particular emphasis on electromagnetic phenomena, including electromagnetic radiation and waves and electric circuits.”

Articulate why you sought out the college course, opposed to any comparable high school courses. This can involve any future goals you wanted to achieve, or how you wanted to get ahead on a college major. 

“There were some fundamental differences in the curriculum between my high school and the university. The course at UConn, for example, had a laboratory component, which offered me more fundamental training in a research setting and the scientific method. Electromagnetics, furthermore, has been an enduring interest of mine, and I wanted to spend a few months on it, rather than the few weeks we would have taken in AP Physics.” 

As the prompt asks about grades, feel free to talk about any challenges you faced. A lower grade in a college course isn’t anything to be ashamed of, and it may allow you to discuss how you dealt with a steep learning curve. 

“Mathematically, I was behind all the other students in the class. While I understood the physics concepts, I often had not learned the math to help prove them. This was my biggest challenge in the class and was, quite frankly, a very steep learning curve. The first few tests, I floundered; however, I met with the Calculus teacher at my high school and received extra help in the morning. I raised my grade drastically, and am on track for my second semester.

As my transcript reflects, this course was my lowest grade. As a perfectionist, I found earning a “B –” in this class extremely frustrating. But now, I am thankful for the opportunity this class has provided. While I do not want to study physics at university, I am proud that I allowed myself to be challenged. The skills of perseverance and the ability to ask for help academically are well worth the small inconsistency on my transcript.”

This is a good response because it: 

1. Concisely presents the course and its curriculum. What was the class and what did it cover? 

2. Explicates your interest in seeking a college-level education. What was your reasoning for taking this course? Did it follow a specific interest of yours? Provide a significantly larger challenge academically? 

3. Elucidates Your Challenges. How was your academic performance in this class? What were some major challenges that you faced? This section can address your grade. It is important to not make excuses for yourself, only to present the obstacles you faced. 

4. Concludes with Your Successes. What is your major takeaway from this course? Was it the material? Did it serve as a testament to your ability to persevere? Did you make a good connection with the professor? End on a high note! 

Honors College, Prompt 3

Knowledge in a field/creativity: describe any special interests and how you have developed knowledge in these areas. give examples of your creativity- the ability to see alternatives; take diverse perspectives; come up with many, varied, or original ideas; or willingness to try new things. (100 words).

Like the first question, this one is asking you to choose a creative “something.” So try not to repeat the subject you discussed in the Rita Dove prompt . Or, if you do, pick a niche or subset of the larger subject: “mystery fiction” as a subset of “writing,” for example.

The second part of the prompt is wordy; break it down . As a sentence, it bombards you with a lot of phrases: “the ability to see alternatives; take diverse perspectives; come up with many, varied, or original ideas; or willingness to try new things.” But if we look closely to related words like “alternative,” “varied,” “original,” “new,” etc, we can break it down to one necessary element: a time you thought outside the box. 

Be brief and vivid. Because the word allowance is only one hundred words, use a quick hook (a striking anecdote, a question, even a word or sentence fragment, etc.) to encapsulate your creativity in your field.

“I love music the same way I love science: there is structure, but there is also improvisation. Jazz is freedom: at the piano, I deviate, explore within the key, but try out new melodies. When I finish, my neighbor claps. He is an accomplished classical musician and can play any sheet music.

We both want what we don’t have. He tells me he wishes he could improvise, and I tell him I practice daily, but don’t have close to the technique he does. We’ll never be content, we joke, but maybe we don’t need to. Music is like a boundless world: we can map whole regions, but there’s always more.”

This response is successful because it quickly introduces your field of creativity, in this case, music. It presents a developed knowledge (improvisation) and an opportunity to take a diverse perspective and try new things (a more classical approach to music) and explains your insatiable quest of the acquisition of knowledge and mastery over a topic! All within one hundred words!  

Honors College, Prompt 4

Dealing with adversity: describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to address this challenge. include whether you turned to anyone in facing the challenge, the role the person played, and what you learned about yourself. (100 words).

Hint: this is about an event, but also about your core identity, culture, or values. You should use this space as an opportunity to explain aspects of your personal background that would not otherwise be readily apparent in your application. This could range from any academic performance difficulties to financial hardship your family is experiencing. Maybe you suffered from a concussion in your sophomore year, and your grades dropped because you had trouble focusing. Maybe you couldn’t participate in as many extracurriculars because your parents both worked, and you had to take care of your younger siblings. Or, maybe, your dyslexia is a major impediment in your learning.  

Make sure the problem is significant : while there is no right answer to the prompt, avoid superficial topics such as getting a C on a single test or bickering with your sibling. Writing about minor setbacks will make it seem like you haven’t thought hard enough about your autobiography.

But the problem is only half the essay : whatever you choose to write about, demonstrate your ability to persevere and overcome something. Consider writing about: 

• How your perspective changed
• How your values changed
• Something you had to compromise about
• Strategies you used
• A goal you set
• A belief you gave up 
• A fear you conquered

You have only 100 words: be brief! Avoid long, complicated anecdotes or metaphors, and explain yourself quickly.

Nod towards the future. Conclude by summarizing how your way of looking at the world is different, and what you plan to do with that knowledge. Mention any problems, either with yourself, your circles, or society, that you’ve been inspired to deal with. 

For example: 

“Whenever a teacher asks me to read aloud in class, I experience a feeling I can’t define. It straddles embarrassment and fear, frustration and anger. 

I have struggled with dyslexia my whole life. 

After years of specialists, I began to love reading, but only under certain conditions: privately and slowly. In class, I drag my finger along the words and try to remain calm. 

At first, I was frantic to “fix” myself, but I’m learning to accept that I read differently from others. Dyslexia will always be the albatross around my neck, and yet, I choose to keep climbing. I find the feeling of success is greater than the temporary embarrassment of inverting sentences or mispronouncing words. I’m not ashamed of dyslexia, because I want to show others that they shouldn’t be, either.”

This example is a good start, because it pinpoints a problem, highlights a personal shortcoming, and gestures to how the narrator solves her own problems and a larger, societal problem. 

It’s also fantastic in that it starts with a jolt of emotion and includes concrete details (“I drag my finger along the words”). And in an essay about reading, the Coleridge allusion doesn’t hurt, either. 

Honors College, Prompt 5

Handling systemic challenges: osu remains committed to creating an inclusive environment and dismantling systems that perpetuate discrimination at various levels. how, specifically, will you contribute to furthering this commitment  (100 words).

Your answer should be verb- and action- based. Here, OSU shares their ethos, but also their actions. Oregon State University is “inclusive” – but keep in mind that while “inclusive” is technically an adjective, it’s actually a disguised verb: “include.” Same with “dismantle oppressive systems” – that’s a verb. And the operative word of the question – “how?” – is another word that’s fundamentally concerned with verbs. At the forefront of your mind, remember: the question is not “What do you believe?” but “What will you do?” It may be a good idea to brainstorm a list of verbs. If you like certain OSU programs (nouns), what verbs to those programs perform.

Touch briefly on your motivation. This could be through a cultural backstory or “identity,” which can give you a sense of the actions you want to perform. For instance, someone who has experienced discrimination or ostracization might have a clearer view of what policies, laws, or initiatives are needed to address the problem. Note that “identity” isn’t a concrete list of topics OSU wants you to pick from: don’t feel like you have to come at this through the traditional descriptors of race, color, class, gender, creed, and sexuality. You may not feel qualified to, and you may not want to. Instead, you could talk about other “identities”: a misunderstood hobby; regional origins; speech patterns or dialect; types of learners; access to computers and resources; clothing and appearance; lifestyles and cultural differences; housing; age; intra-group conflict; etc. 

Instead of “identity,” you might choose a values lens instead. How have your values shaped who you are? How do your values dovetail with OSU’s values of acceptance, diversity, and inclusion?

Remember to relate it back to OSU. They actually hide the most important part of the prompt towards the beginning, and that’s OSU’s environment. Although your inspiration for combating oppression might come from a distant place, like your parents’ time living in the USSR, you should angle your focus back to what you want to do (verb!) on campus. 

Here’s an example: 

“Growing up, my seven-person family lived in a two-bedroom apartment. I wore secondhand, dated clothes, which drew ridicule from my classmates. When I came home crying, my mother would play the song “Coat of Many Colors” by Dolly Parton—a ballad which teaches us that being rich with love is the only thing that matters. 

Dolly made me feel better, but I wish her kindness towards those with financial problems could have been practiced culturally and publicly – not just in the privacy of our home. And because finances is such a pressing topic in college, I want to do my part to make its discussion less taboo. My current priorities include volunteering as a tutor for students in need and pressing health centers to address socioeconomic obstacles to services. As an aspiring engineer, I would also love to join OSU’s chapter of Engineers Without Borders, to apply my skills at design towards needed projects in disadvantaged regions.” 

One hundred words seems like very little; however, you are able to pack in a lot of details! This essay “works” because it presents a quick anecdote about how this goal is personal to you (in this case, a personal experience with poverty) and your goals to make this interest actionable at OSU (Engineers Without Borders, volunteering, etc.).

Honors College, Prompt 6

Goals/task commitment: articulate the goals you have established for yourself and your efforts to accomplish these. give at least one specific example that demonstrates your work ethic/diligence. (100 words).

For this question, it’s best to begin with a clear list of 1-2 general goals, and then move into specific actions towards them. Don’t think small: a general goal might be a broad characteristic you want to acquire (“cosmopolitan,” “organized,” “financially stable”). By having such a large goal, you’ll 1) be able to think of contributing actions and projects more easily, and 2) show OSU your priorities on a macro level. Big goals and life aspirations aren’t bounded by time: for example, my “Italian 102 class” might be over, but my desire to “reconnect with my family’s roots in Palermo” is a lifelong quest that will continue to bear fruit. 

Remember the limit. Because you only have one hundred words, forego flowery language and anecdotes, although you should still put some interesting detail into your chosen example (“that demonstrates your work ethic”). 

Brainstorm examples of “work ethic.” This could mean a lot of things. Food for thought:

• A project that took an exceptionally long time
• A project for which you hunted down elusive information
• A subject that pushed you out of your comfort zone
• A journey with multiple long steps
• A time you stayed up late, or got up early
• A time you were on the cusp of giving up
• A risk you took
• An instance where you were tempted to cut corners or cheat
• A time you paid attention to the smallest detail
• A time others told you your product was “good enough,” but you kept perfecting it
• Something that required an investment of effort, money, or resources
• A task that put you through boredom, tedium, or pain

OSU wants to hear that you’re willing to engage in the parts of your interest that don’t involve “fun,” “passion,” or “inspiration.”

In praxis, your essay might look something like this, or follow a similar structure:

“My goals have always been simple: to do my personal best, treat others kindly, and foster a welcoming community. While all of these can intersect, I have found myself emphasizing “community,” especially in my final year of high school. After four years on the Student Council, I noticed a massive inequity between the lowerclassmen and the upperclassme n. Freshman and sophomores were often scared to speak at meetings, and sometimes, offered no contributions to the discussion. Inspired by my brother, who attends OSU, I brought in a copy of routine Guidelines for Dialogue: assume best intentions, don’t interrupt, and acknowledge impact versus intent. For two weeks, I kept data on how often members spoke, which proved the disparity. I presented it to the Council, and I offered a 3-Step Plan to make all voices heard. It was a success, and our community became more welcoming. I should know: I kept logging the data.”

This is an effective answer, because it presents a broad goal (“community”) at the outset – and also in the conclusion. The narrator discusses a concrete strategy that demonstrates “work ethic” – in this case, going above and beyond to generate persuasive data. Even without the bonus points for having an OSU brother, this essay would mark the applicant as someone who walks the walk when it comes to goals.

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