university of texas supplemental essays 2023

Navigate the University of Texas at Austin Supplemental Essays '23-'24

Welcome, future Longhorns! The University of Texas at Austin supplemental essays for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle are your opportunity to stand out from the crowd and convey your unique identity. In this blog post, we'll delve into each prompt, offering insightful advice to help you craft compelling essays.

University of Texas at Austin Supplemental Essay Prompts

• Why are you interested in the University of Texas at Austin major you selected? (250-300 words)
• Leadership can be demonstrated in many ways. Please share how you have demonstrated leadership in either your school, job, community, and/or within your family responsibilities. (250-300 words)
• Please share how you believe your experiences, perspectives, and/or talents have shaped your ability to contribute to and enrich the learning environment at UT Austin, both in and out of the classroom. (250-300 words)

Let's dissect these prompts and discuss how to approach each:

Why are you interested in the University of Texas at Austin major you selected? This prompt calls for specific reasons that drew you to your chosen major at UT Austin. Be it the department's unique approach to education, the research opportunities available, or the faculty's work, express why these aspects make UT Austin's program a great fit for your academic interests and future goals.

From a young age, I've been captivated by the intricacies of human behavior. When I first stumbled upon computational neuroscience, a field that intersects my love for psychology and computer science, I knew I had found my calling. The University of Texas at Austin, with its interdisciplinary approach and focus on research, stood out as the perfect place to pursue this passion.

The Department of Neuroscience at UT Austin has a unique Brain, Behavior, and Evolution program that integrates traditional neuroscience with related disciplines. This aligns with my goal to explore the broad interplay of neural circuits, cognition, and behavior, and eventually contribute to AI models that better replicate human intelligence. Additionally, the opportunity to learn from renowned professors such as Dr. Laura Colgin, whose work on spatial memory and cognitive maps aligns with my interest areas, is an opportunity too enticing to pass up.

Further, UT Austin's commitment to undergraduate research, as demonstrated by the Freshman Research Initiative, would provide me with invaluable hands-on experience early on. I am particularly drawn to the "Neuroscience of Learning and Memory" stream, which could deepen my understanding of neural processes underlying cognition.

UT Austin's collaborative and research-oriented atmosphere makes it the ideal platform to delve deep into computational neuroscience, thereby taking the first step towards my long-term goal of revolutionizing AI technologies with human-like cognitive capabilities.

Leadership can be demonstrated in many ways. Reflect on your experiences where you've shown leadership, from formal roles in clubs or teams to less traditional ways like taking initiative in a group project or helping younger siblings with homework. UT Austin values students who can take responsibility, show initiative, and positively impact their community.

Leadership, to me, is about taking responsibility, initiating change, and impacting others positively. I've strived to embody these qualities as the president of my school's Robotics Club. However, my leadership journey was not always smooth.

When I initially assumed the role, our club was grappling with dwindling membership and lack of motivation. To overcome this, I implemented a mentorship program where older members would mentor newcomers, fostering a sense of belonging. I also introduced weekly challenges that incited enthusiasm and cultivated a problem-solving mentality among members.

Overcoming initial resistance, the changes gradually started showing effect. Membership increased, and our club even won the regional RoboRumble competition, a feat our school had not achieved in years.

Yet, my proudest accomplishment is not the accolades but the vibrant, inclusive community we built. Witnessing shy newcomers evolve into confident contributors reinforced the profound impact of leadership. As I step into UT Austin, I look forward to bringing this same spirit of initiative and transformation to my endeavors.

Please share how you believe your experiences, perspectives, and/or talents have shaped your ability to contribute to and enrich the learning environment at UT Austin. This prompt is about demonstrating your unique value to the UT Austin community. Reflect on how your experiences and talents have shaped your worldview and how these perspectives would contribute to a diverse and inclusive learning environment at UT Austin.

Born and raised in a multicultural household with an American mother and a Korean father, I've learned to navigate and appreciate different perspectives from an early age. This has cultivated in me a deep respect for diversity and an ability to foster dialogue between varied viewpoints.

In high school, I leveraged this understanding to initiate 'Cultural Dialogue' sessions where students discussed global issues from diverse cultural perspectives. These dialogues opened avenues for conversation, leading to a more inclusive school environment.

At UT Austin, I wish to bring this passion for fostering cultural understanding and dialogue. I aim to participate in and lead initiatives that promote intercultural exchange, contributing to UT Austin's diverse and inclusive community.

Furthermore, as a computational neuroscience enthusiast, I hope to bring a unique interdisciplinary perspective to classroom discussions. I am excited to engage in intellectual exchanges within UT Austin's vibrant academic community, learn from my peers, and contribute to the dynamic discourse at UT Austin.

Remember these important pointers:

• Show, Don't Tell : Use concrete examples and narratives to demonstrate your points rather than merely stating them.
• Reflection is Key : Don't just recount experiences. Highlight what you learned from them and how they shaped you.
• Be Genuine : Authenticity speaks volumes. Write from your heart and let your true personality shine through.

Embarking on the UT Austin supplemental essays can seem daunting, but remember, this is your chance to present your unique story to the admissions committee. Good luck, and Hook 'em Horns!

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UT Austin Supplemental Essays 2024-25 – Prompts and Advice

June 26, 2024

The University of Texas at Austin is one of the top public universities in the United States, and its ultra-elite business, engineering, and computer science programs attract brilliant teen minds from all over the world. It’s no wonder that close to 73,000 students applied for a chance to join the Longhorn Class of 2028. This enthusiasm has caused the annual acceptance rate to drop significantly. Thanks to a state policy that guarantees admission to Texas high schoolers who finish in the top 6% of their class, close to 90% of UT Austin’s 40,000+ undergraduate students placed in the top decile of their high school cohort. Additionally, the mean SAT for entering freshmen is over 1400. That brings us to the immense importance of the UT Austin supplemental essay prompts.

(Want to learn more about How to Get Into UT Austin? Visit our blog entitled:  How to Get Into UT Austin: Admissions Data and Strategies for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

In a rare move, UT Austin reduced the number of supplemental essays that students need to write for the 2024-25 admissions cycle. However, the UT Austin supplemental section still affords applicants an excellent opportunity to showcase what makes them uniquely qualified for admission. Below are the University of Texas at Austin’s three supplemental prompts for the 2024-25 admissions cycle along with advice on how to address each one.

UT Austin Supplemental Essay — 2024-25

1. 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. (500-650 words)

It doesn’t get more open-ended prompt than “topic of your choice.” Feel free to take this in whatever direction produces the most compelling and personal essay you can compose. What do you want the admissions office to know that they couldn’t possibly glean from anywhere else in your application? Don’t be afraid to share your struggles just as freely as your triumphs. An emotionally honest essay that showcases your unique personality is the desired product here.

One additional tip from an essay writing efficiency standpoint…if you are applying to a number of schools through the Common and/or Coalition App, you can “recycle” your Common App essay here (or vice versa).

UT Austin Short Answer Prompts — 2024-25

Answers are limited to no more than 40 lines, or about 250–300 words per prompt, typically the length of one paragraph.

1. Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major?

Share your authentic story of why you are interested in a particular discipline. For example, what books have you read on the subject? What documentaries have you watched? Which podcasts have you listened to? What subtopics most intrigue you? Did a teacher excite you about a topic or was it a parent or outside mentor? Do you know where you want to take this knowledge post-bachelor’s degree? Do you aim to one day go on to pursue a graduate/professional degree or is there an occupation you are shooting for right out of undergrad? Include as much detail as possible.

You can structure the narrative of this essay as a soup-to-nuts chronicling of your entire journey toward your discipline of interest or you could share one or two vignettes that illustrate your burgeoning passion for engineering, history, French, computer science, business, psychology, etc.

UT Austin Essay Prompts (Continued)

 2. Think of all the activities — both in and outside of school — that you have been involved with during high school. Which one are you most proud of and why? (Guidance for students: This can include an extracurricular activity, a club/organization, volunteer activity, work, or a family responsibility.)

Perhaps you are the captain of a team, the editor-in-chief of your school paper, or the president of a club. On the other hand, you may simply be a valuable contributing member. Regardless of whether you are a leading man/woman or a still-essential bit player, make sure that you use your writing ability to show the admissions officer what type of involved team member you are and why you are proud of your contributions.

You can also discuss how you have engaged with your high school local/community. Share what you have learned from interacting with people of a different ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual identity, etc. Draw on past evidence of your commitment to being a positive force in the context of your activity/activities. Finally, you can draw a link between your past efforts and future aims by researching and citing UT Austin organizations or initiatives. The admissions committee wants to understand precisely how you will contribute to their campus community.

Optional Short Answer

Please share background on events or special circumstances that you feel may have impacted your high school academic performance.

This section functions similarly to the Additional Information section of the Common App . Feel free to use this space if you encountered any hardships that impacted your academic performance. This could be anything from dealing with a divorce to challenges faced from a learning disability.

However, this prompt is truly optional and you should only take advantage of the space if you need it. If your high school performance has not been majorly impacted by special circumstances or events, you do not need to write this essay.

How important are the essays at UT Austin?

In essence, UT Austin’s admission staff “uses an individualized, holistic review process to consider each completed freshman application. Applications from students who qualify for automatic admission are reviewed to determine admission to specific colleges, schools, and majors. Applications from students who are not eligible for automatic admission are reviewed to determine admissibility and to make decisions about admission to specific colleges, schools, and majors.”

The following items are considered during the holistic review:

• Strength of academic background
• Test scores
• Record of achievements, honors, and awards
• Special accomplishments, work, and service both in and out of school
• Special circumstances that put the applicant’s academic achievements into context, including his or her socioeconomic status, experience in a single-parent home, family responsibilities, experience overcoming adversity, cultural background, race and ethnicity, the language spoken in the applicant’s home, and other information in the applicant’s file
• Recommendations (although not required)
• Competitiveness of the major to which the student applies

UT Austin Essay Prompts – Want Personalized Assistance?

To conclude, if you are interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your UT Austin supplemental essays, we encourage you to get a quote  today.

Need more writing-related resources? Consider checking out the following:

• Common App Essay Prompts
• 10 Instructive Common App Essay Examples
• College Application Essay Topics to Avoid
• How to Brainstorm a College Essay
• 25 Inspiring College Essay Topics
• “Why This College?” Essay Examples
• How to Write the Community Essay
• College Essay

Dave Bergman

Dave has over a decade of professional experience that includes work as a teacher, high school administrator, college professor, and independent educational consultant. He is a co-author of the books The Enlightened College Applicant (Rowman & Littlefield, 2016) and Colleges Worth Your Money (Rowman & Littlefield, 2020).

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UT Austin Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

By Eric Eng

Are you setting your sights on the University of Texas at Austin for the 2023-2024 academic year? If so, you’re probably aware that crafting standout supplemental essays is a crucial part of your application. These essays are your opportunity to show UT Austin not just your academic strengths, but also your unique personality, interests, and what you can bring to their vibrant community.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the 2023-2024 UT Austin supplemental essay prompts. You’ll find practical tips and insights to help you create essays that resonate with the admissions committee. Whether you’re a natural at writing or find it a bit challenging, this guide is tailored to make the essay-writing process clear and less daunting for you. So, let’s get started and turn those blank pages into your ticket to UT Austin !

How Many Supplemental Essays Does UT Austin Have?

For the 2023-2024 application cycle, the University of Texas at Austin has set specific requirements for freshman applicants in terms of essay and short answer responses. Here’s a detailed look at what’s required:

Firstly, there is a mandatory essay for all freshman applicants. This essay is a chance for you to share your personal story. It focuses on the unique opportunities or challenges you’ve encountered throughout your high school journey that have shaped your identity.

In addition to the required essay, there are three short answer prompts that you must respond to. The first prompt asks you to explain your interest in the major you’ve selected as your first choice. The second prompt invites you to describe how your experiences, perspectives, talents, or leadership activities will contribute to your impact both inside and outside the classroom at UT Austin. The third prompt is centered around UT Austin’s core purpose, prompting you to reflect on how you expect your experience at the university to equip you to “Change the World” after graduation.

Moreover, there is an optional short answer question. This provides you with an opportunity to discuss any special circumstances or events that may have influenced your academic performance in high school. This optional prompt is an excellent chance to provide more context to your application, particularly if you’ve faced challenges that have impacted your academic journey.

These essay and short answer prompts collectively offer a comprehensive platform for you to showcase various facets of your personality, experiences, and goals, allowing the admissions committee to gain a deeper understanding of who you are and what you aspire to achieve at UT Austin. The total number of supplemental essay prompts for the 2023-2024 application cycle at UT Austin is five. This includes one required essay and four short answer prompts (three required and one optional).

What are the 2023-2024 UT Austin Supplemental Essay Prompts?

Required essay: 500-700 words.

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

Short Answer Prompts: 250-300 Words Per Prompt

“Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major?”

“Describe how your experiences, perspectives, talents, and/or your involvement in leadership activities (at your school, job, community, or within your family) will help you to make an impact both in and out of the classroom while enrolled at UT.”

“The core purpose of The University of Texas at Austin is, ‘To Transform Lives for the Benefit of Society.’ Please share how you believe your experience at UT Austin will prepare you to ‘Change the World’ after you graduate.”

Optional Short Answer Prompt: 250-300 Words

“Please share background on events or special circumstances that you feel may have impacted your high school academic performance.”

How to Write the 2023-2024 UT Austin Supplemental Essays

Required essay, understanding the question.

This prompt is asking you to think about how you have grown and what you have learned during your high school years. It gives you a chance to talk about what makes you unique, how strong and adaptable you are, and the ways your experiences have made you who you are today. You can share stories about important events or moments that have had a big impact on your life, teaching you valuable lessons and helping you grow as a person. This is a great opportunity to tell your own story and show how your past has prepared you for the future.

Crafting Your Response

1. Unique Personal Experiences: Think about events or situations that have had a significant impact on you. This could be a family circumstance, a cultural event, a personal challenge, or a moment of triumph. Describe these experiences vividly, focusing on how they contributed to your personal development. Reflect on the emotions, lessons learned, and how these experiences have influenced your outlook or aspirations.

2. Academic and Intellectual Growth: You might want to discuss an academic challenge or a project that sparked your interest in a particular field. Explain how overcoming academic hurdles or engaging deeply with a subject has shaped your educational journey. This is not just about listing achievements but reflecting on the process of learning and growing intellectually.

3. Extracurricular Activities and Leadership: Share how your involvement in activities outside the classroom has contributed to your personal growth. This could include sports, clubs, volunteering, or any form of leadership. Highlight specific instances where you made a significant impact, learned valuable skills, or developed new perspectives.

4. Overcoming Adversity: If you’ve faced and overcome significant challenges, this prompt is an excellent place to share that story. Explain the situation, how you dealt with it, what you learned from it, and how it has prepared you for future challenges. Be honest and introspective, showing your resilience and strength.

5. Future Goals and Aspirations: While the prompt focuses on your past, it’s also a chance to connect your experiences to your future goals. Explain how your unique experiences during high school have shaped your ambitions and how these align with what you hope to achieve at UT Austin. This link between past experiences and future aspirations can demonstrate purpose and direction.

Remember, the key is to be authentic and introspective, providing a window into who you are and how your unique experiences have shaped you.

Short Answer Prompt 1

This prompt is asking you to explain why you want to study a particular subject in college. It’s a chance for you to talk about how your past experiences, the things you’re interested in right now, and what you want to do in the future all relate to the major you’ve picked. Think of it as a way to show how your life story and your goals are connected to the subject you want to study.

1. Personal Passion and Interest: Begin by reflecting on what personally attracts you to this major. Perhaps you’ve always been fascinated by a particular subject, or you had an experience that sparked your interest. Describe this passion in detail. Explain how your interest developed over time, what specific aspects of the subject intrigue you, and how pursuing this major aligns with your personal interests and strengths.

2. Relevant Experiences and Achievements: Think about experiences in your life that relate directly to your chosen major. These could be academic projects, extracurricular activities, internships, or even personal projects. Discuss these experiences in depth, highlighting how they strengthened your interest in the field and prepared you for further study. Describe any challenges you faced and how overcoming them reinforced your commitment to this major.

3. Career Aspirations: Link your choice of major to your long-term career goals. Explain how this major is a stepping stone to your envisioned future. Discuss the skills and knowledge you hope to gain and how they are essential for your career path. Be specific about your ambitions and how the major will equip you for your desired role or industry.

4. Connection to UT Austin: Research how UT Austin’s program in this major is particularly suited to your goals and interests. Discuss specific courses, professors, research opportunities, or unique aspects of the program that attracted you. This shows that your choice is well-considered and that you are informed about what UT Austin specifically offers in your field of interest.

5. Personal Growth and Future Contribution: Reflect on how studying this major will contribute to your personal development and how you, in turn, plan to contribute to the field. Think about the broader impact you want to make in your area of study and how your unique perspective will add value. This could be in terms of innovation, addressing societal challenges, or advancing knowledge in your field.

Remember, the key is to demonstrate a deep and genuine interest in your chosen major, supported by personal experiences, achievements, and a clear vision of your future. This prompt is a chance to show the admissions committee not just why you chose the major, but also how you are prepared and excited to dive into it at UT Austin.

Short Answer Prompt 2

This prompt asks you to show how the things that make you special and the experiences you have had will add value to the University of Texas at Austin. It’s about sharing what makes you different, like your talents, ideas, and life stories, and explaining how these can have a positive impact on the university’s community. Think about what you can bring to the table that will help make UT Austin a more diverse, interesting, and enriching place for everyone.

1. Leadership Experiences: Reflect on any leadership roles you’ve held, whether in school clubs, sports teams, community groups, or even within your family. Discuss specific instances where you demonstrated leadership skills like problem-solving, teamwork, or innovation. Explain how these experiences helped you grow as a leader and how you plan to apply these skills at UT Austin. For example, if you led a community service project, discuss how it impacted your perspective on social issues and how you plan to engage in similar initiatives at UT.

2. Unique Perspectives and Diversity: Think about the unique perspectives you bring due to your background, experiences, or worldview. Discuss how these perspectives have shaped your understanding and approach to various situations. Explain how this diversity of thought will contribute to classroom discussions, group projects, or campus life at UT Austin. For instance, if you come from a multicultural background, share how this has given you a broader understanding of different cultures and how you plan to promote inclusivity on campus.

3. Talents and Skills: Identify any special talents or skills you possess and how they could be beneficial in a university setting. This could be anything from artistic abilities to tech skills, or even exceptional communication or organizational skills. Discuss how you have developed and utilized these talents in the past and how you envision using them at UT Austin. For example, if you’re a talented musician, you might talk about joining the university orchestra or contributing to the campus’s cultural life.

4. Academic and Intellectual Contributions: Consider how your academic strengths and intellectual curiosity will contribute to UT Austin’s academic community. Discuss any subjects or projects you are particularly passionate about and how you plan to pursue these interests further at UT. Highlight any relevant achievements or projects that showcase your academic abilities. For instance, if you excelled in science fairs or research projects, explain how you intend to bring that enthusiasm and expertise to your studies and potentially research opportunities at UT.

5. Community Involvement and Impact: Reflect on your involvement in community service or other volunteer activities. Discuss how these experiences have shaped your understanding of community needs and social issues. Explain how you plan to continue being involved in community service at UT Austin and the impact you hope to make. For example, if you’ve been active in environmental causes, talk about how you plan to engage with sustainability initiatives on campus.

Short Answer Prompt 3

The question wants to know how you plan to make a difference in society and how attending the University of Texas at Austin will help you achieve this. It’s about explaining your goals for helping others or improving your community and how you think the university will support you in this mission.

1. Alignment with UT Austin’s Values: Start by discussing how UT Austin’s core values and mission resonate with your personal beliefs and aspirations. Explore how the university’s emphasis on societal transformation aligns with your goals. Mention specific aspects of UT Austin – be it its academic environment, community initiatives, research opportunities, or campus culture – that you believe will be instrumental in preparing you to make a positive impact in society.

2. Academic and Professional Development: Elaborate on how you anticipate your chosen major or academic program will equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to society. Discuss specific courses, faculty, research opportunities, or interdisciplinary programs at UT Austin that you are excited about and how they will help develop your expertise in areas you are passionate about. Highlight how this academic preparation is crucial for your plans to ‘Change the World.’

3. Personal Growth and Self-Discovery: Reflect on how you expect your time at UT Austin to contribute to your personal growth. This might include developing leadership skills, fostering a global perspective, or enhancing your understanding of societal challenges. Discuss how participating in university activities, such as clubs, organizations, or community service projects, will help you grow personally and understand the role you can play in societal transformation.

4. Community Engagement and Networking: Consider how engaging with the UT Austin community and beyond will prepare you for your future goals. This could involve collaboration with diverse groups, participation in community service, or networking with professionals and alumni. Explain how these interactions will provide you with a broader perspective, enable you to build meaningful connections, and prepare you to work effectively for the betterment of society.

5. Vision for the Future: Conclude by articulating a clear vision of how you plan to ‘Change the World’ post-graduation. This should be a forward-looking statement that ties together your academic interests, personal growth, and experiences at UT Austin. Discuss specific issues or challenges you are passionate about addressing and how your education and experiences at UT Austin will empower you to make a tangible impact in those areas.

Optional Short Answer Prompt

The prompt wants you to explain your school grades, especially if you had tough times or problems that made school harder for you. It’s asking you to tell more about what was going on in your life that might have made it difficult to do well in school. Maybe there were things happening at home or with your health that made learning tough. The idea is to help the people reading your application understand why your grades might not tell the whole story about how hard you worked or how much you can achieve. They want to know about any big challenges that impacted how you did in school.

1. Identifying Challenges: Start by identifying any significant challenges or special circumstances you faced during high school. These could include personal or family issues, health problems, a learning disability, financial hardships, or any other situation that had a direct impact on your academic performance. Be clear and specific about the nature of these challenges.

2. Impact on Academic Performance: Explain how these challenges affected your studies. This might include difficulties in concentrating, missing school, lack of resources, or emotional stress. It’s important to detail not just the challenges, but specifically how they impacted your ability to perform academically, such as affecting your grades or limiting your ability to participate in certain activities or courses.

3. Response and Resilience: Discuss how you responded to these challenges. This is a chance to showcase your resilience and problem-solving skills. Talk about any strategies you used to cope or overcome these difficulties, any support you sought, and how you managed to continue your education despite these obstacles. This part of your response can highlight your determination and adaptability.

4. Lessons Learned and Personal Growth: Reflect on what you learned from dealing with these challenges. Discuss any personal growth you experienced as a result, such as gaining a new perspective, developing coping skills, or becoming more empathetic towards others. Admissions officers are interested in seeing how you’ve grown through your experiences.

5. Current Status and Future Focus: Briefly mention where you stand now in relation to these challenges and how you are preparing for college. If applicable, explain how your experiences have influenced your future goals or choice of major. This helps to connect your past experiences with your future at the university.

When answering this prompt, honesty and introspection are crucial. It’s about providing context to your academic journey, showing how you’ve navigated challenges, and demonstrating your readiness for college despite any obstacles you’ve faced.

Materials to Read Before Writing Your Supplemental Essays

Before diving into writing your 2023-2024 UT Austin supplemental essays, there are several key resources and materials you should read to ensure your essays are effec tive and resonate with the admissions committee.

1. UT Austin’s Website: Start with the University of Texas at Austin’s official website . Pay special attention to the admissions section, where you’ll find detailed information about the essay prompts. Understanding the exact requirements and expectations for each prompt is crucial.

2. Course Catalog and Major Descriptions: If you’re writing about your intended major, it’s beneficial to read up on UT Austin’s course catalog and major descriptions. This will help you articulate why you’re interested in a specific program and how it aligns with your goals. 

For example, if you’re interested in the Computer Science major, you could read through the course catalog to see what courses are required and what topics are covered. You could also read the major description to learn more about the program’s goals and objectives. By doing your research, you’ll be able to write a more informed and compelling statement of purpose.

In addition to reading the course catalog and major descriptions, you can also learn more about a program by talking to current students and professors. This can give you a firsthand perspective on what the program is like and what you can expect. You can also attend departmental events and informational sessions to learn more about the program.

3. University Mission and Values: The University of Texas at Austin is a public research university with a mission to “promote the advancement of knowledge, preserve human values, and develop human potential.” The university’s values include academic excellence, diversity, innovation, and integrity.

Students who are interested in applying to UT Austin should familiarize themselves with the university’s mission statement and values. By understanding how these align with their own values and aspirations, students can write essays that stand out from the competition.

4. Writing Guides and Tips: Utilize writing guides, especially those focused on college admissions essays. These resources often provide valuable tips on structuring your essays, choosing topics, and refining your writing style.

5. Feedback from Others: After you have written your drafts, it might be helpful to read feedback or advice from teachers, counselors, or trusted individuals who have experience with college admissions. They can offer insights you might not have considered.

Remember, the key to these supplemental essays is to reflect your unique personality, experiences, and aspirations. You’re not just answering questions; you’re painting a picture of who you are and why you would be a great fit for UT Austin. So, take your time to read and research thoroughly before you begin writing your 2023-2024 UT Austin supplemental essays.

Structuring Your UT Austin Supplemental Essays

The structure of your 2023-2024 UT Austin supplemental essays plays a vital role in how effectively you communicate your ideas to the admissions committee. A well-structured essay not only makes your writing more coherent and engaging but also showcases your ability to organize thoughts and convey messages clearly. Here are three key points on how you can structure your UT Austin supplemental essays:

1. Start with a Strong Introduction: Your introduction is your first chance to capture the reader’s attention. Begin with a compelling hook – this could be an intriguing question, a brief anecdote, or a unique statement related to your essay topic. The introduction should set the tone for your essay and provide a sneak peek into what you’re going to talk about. For UT Austin essays, it’s particularly important to connect your introduction to the specific prompt you’re addressing.

2. Develop a Clear Body with Specific Examples: The body of your essay is where you dive deep into your topic. For each paragraph, start with a clear topic sentence that relates back to the prompt. Then, elaborate on this with specific examples from your experiences, achievements, or aspirations. 

For instance, if you’re discussing your intended major, you might talk about a particular project or class that sparked your interest in this field. Remember, UT Austin is looking for students who can bring unique perspectives and experiences to their campus, so use the body of your essay to showcase what makes you stand out.

3. Conclude with Reflection and Forward-Thinking: Your conclusion should not just summarize what you’ve written, but also reflect on what you’ve learned and how it applies to your future at UT Austin. This is your chance to tie all your points together and reiterate why you’re a great fit for the university. Perhaps, discuss how you envision applying your learnings at UT Austin or how being a part of their community will help you achieve your long-term goals.

Remember, while creativity is important, clarity and relevance to the prompt are key in your 2023-2024 UT Austin supplemental essays. Use your structure to guide the reader through your thoughts and experiences in a way that’s engaging an d leaves a lasting impression.

How to Effectively Revise and Proofread

Revising and proofreading your 2023-2024 UT Austin supplemental essays are crucial steps in ensuring your application stands out. These pro cesses help refine your ideas, correct errors, and enhance the overall quality of your writing. Here are detailed strategies to effectively revise and proofread your essays:

1. Take a Break Before Revising: After completing your first draft, give yourself a break before starting the revision process. This short break – it could be a few hours or a day – allows you to return to your essay with fresh eyes. You’ll be more likely to catch awkward phrasing, inconsistencies, or areas that need more detail.

2. Read Aloud for Flow and Clarity: Read your essay out loud to yourself. This technique is incredibly effective in identifying sentences that are too long, awkwardly structured, or difficult to understand. Your ears can catch what your eyes might miss. As you read, pay attention to the flow of your essay. Does each paragraph smoothly transition to the next? Do your sentences convey your thoughts clearly and concisely?

3. Check for Relevance to the Prompt: Every sentence in your essay should serve a purpose and be relevant to the prompt. UT Austin is looking for specific information about you and how you fit with their community and values. Ensure that each part of your essay directly responds to the prompt, and remove or rewrite any parts that wander off-topic.

4. Seek Feedback from Others: Sometimes, it’s hard to be objective about your own writing. Ask a teacher, counselor, or someone you trust to review your essay. They can provide valuable feedback on the content, structure, and clarity of your essay. Remember, while it’s important to consider their suggestions, the final essay should still reflect your voice and ideas.

5. Pay Attention to Grammar and Spelling: Lastly, thoroughly proofread your essay for any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors. These mistakes can distract from the content and give an impression of carelessness. Utilize tools like spell checkers, but don’t rely solely on them. A careful, manual review is essential to catch subtle errors that automated tools might miss.

By meticulously revising and proofreading your 2023-2024 UT Austin supplemental essays, you ensure that your application is polished, professional, and reflective of your best self. This attention to detail can make a significant difference in how your application is perceived by the admissions committee.

Why You Should Study at the University of Texas at Austin

When considering where to pursue your higher education, UT Austin stands out as a top choice, especially as you prepare your 2023-2024 UT Austin supplemental essays. As of November 2023, UT Austin boasts remarkable achievements and rankings that highlight its excellence in various aspects of higher education.

UT Austin has proudly ascended to the No. 9 spot among public universities in the United States, according to U.S. News & World Report. This significa nt ranking underscores the university’s dedication to delivering a superior educational experience. Moreover, it holds the prestigious position of being the No. 1 public university in Texas, demonstrating its leadership and prominence in the state.

The university is not just recognized for its overall excellence but also for its outstanding academic programs. For instance, the McCombs School of Business, a well-respected name in the realm of business education, is ranked 5th nationally, with its accounting program leading the nation at No. 1. The Cockrell School of Engineering is another gem at UT Austin, ranking 11th in the country, and featuring several top-10 specialties. The university’s computer science program, particularly renowned for areas like artificial intelligence, is also ranked 11th nationally.

Beyond just academic rankings, UT Austin is a hub of innovation and research. It’s ranked as the 16th “Most Innovative School” in the U.S., reflecting an environment that fosters creativity, cutting-edge research, and groundbreaking projects. This innovative spirit is a core part of the UT Austin experience, offering students like you opportunities to engage in transformative projects and research endeavors.

UT Austin also boasts a wide variety of top-ranked specialties across different disciplines, ensuring that no matter what your interests are, there’s a place for you to excel. The university’s commitment to student success is evident in its support for various programs, including undergraduate research and study abroad initiatives. It’s also recognized for its efforts in supporting veterans, ranking No. 16 nationally and No. 1 in Texas for veterans.

In summary, choosing UT Austin is about more than just joining a prestigious academic institution. It’s about being part of a university that is actively shaping the future through its commitment to innovation, academic excellence, and student success. As you write your 2023-2024 UT Austin supplemental essays, consider these points to understand the unique opportunities and experiences that await you at this distinguished university.

UT Austin’s Application Deadlines and Key Metrics

As a student considering the University of Texas at Austin, it’s important for you to know the latest admission trends and statistics. For the year 2023, UT Austin has an acceptance rate of 31%. This indicates a highly selective admission process, meaning only about 31 students for every 100 applicants are admitted. The average SAT scores for admitted students range between 1230 and 1500, and the ACT scores range from 29 to 34.

Regarding application deadlines for the 2023-2024 academic year, if you’re a first-time college student, your application for Fall 2024 should be submitted by December 1, 2023. For external transfers, the deadlines are March 1st for fall admission and October 1st for spring admission. However, it’s highly recommended to complete the ApplyTexas application by December 15, 2023, even though the official deadline is January 10th. Early action deadlines are also important if you’re applying as a freshman, with the deadline being November 1, 2023, and decisions released by February 1, 2024​​​​.

In terms of academic performance and retention, UT Austin boasts impressive numbers. The university has a freshman retention rate of 95%, significantly higher than the national average. This rate reflects the percentage of first-year students who return to the university for their second year. The overall retention rate stands at 96%. For graduation rates, 57% of students graduate within four years, and 79% graduate within six years. The six-year graduation rate is 87.6%, demonstrating the university’s commitment to supporting students through to the completion of their studies​​​​.

As you prepare your application, remember to focus on the 2023-2024 UT Austin supplemental essays, which are a crucial part of your application. These essays give you a chance to showcase your unique personality, experiences, and motivations for choosing UT Austin. Make sure to express yourself clearly and authentically, as this is your opportunity to stand out in a competitive applicant pool.

How Important are Supplemental Essays in the College Admissions Process?

Supplemental essays play a pivotal role in the college admissions process, especially for institutions like The University of Texas at Austin. When you’re working on your 2023-2024 UT Austin supplemental essays, it’s crucial to understand their significance and how they can enhance your chances of admission .

These essays are more than just a formality; they’re a unique platform for you to present yourself beyond grades and test scores. Think of your supplemental essays as a personal interview on paper. They offer you the opportunity to showcase your personality, experiences, values, and how you think. This is your chance to let the admissions committee hear your voice and see the person behind the application numbers.

One key aspect of supplemental essays is that they allow you to demonstrate your fit with the university’s culture and values. UT Austin, like many prestigious universities, looks for students who will contribute positively to their campus community. Through your essays, you can illustrate not just why you want to attend UT Austin, but also how you will add value to the university. This could be through leadership experiences, community service, personal projects, or unique perspectives you bring to the table.

Moreover, supplemental essays provide a platform for you to explain any anomalies in your academic record. If there were circumstances that impacted your grades or extracurricular involvement, the supplemental essays give you a space to provide context. This helps the admissions committee understand your journey in a more holistic manner.

In crafting your 2023-2024 UT Austin supplemental essays, creativity and authenticity are key. Avoid generic responses; instead, dive deep into your personal experiences, beliefs, and aspirations. Make your essays specific to UT Austin by tying your narrative to specific programs, professors, or opportunities that align with your academic and career goals. This shows the admissions committee that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in what UT Austin has to offer.

Remember, quality trumps quantity. It’s better to have a few well-crafted, thoughtful essays than several superficial ones. Each essay is an opportunity to stand out and make a compelling case for why you belong at UT Austin. Take your time to brainstorm, draft, and revise until your essays truly reflect who you are and why you would be an excellent fit for the university.

Overall, the 2023-2024 UT Austin supplemental essays are a crucial element of your application. They are the gateway for the admissions committee to get to know you on a personal level. Utilize this opportunity to highlight your unique story, demonstrate your fit with the university, and articulate your enthusiasm for becoming a part of the UT Austin community. Remember, your essays can significantly influence your chances of admission, so give them the attention and effort they deserve.

How Do UT Austin’s Supplemental Essays Compare to Other Top Universities?

Understanding how UT Austin’s supplemental essays compare to those of other top universities is vital. Unlike some universities that have generic prompts, UT Austin’s supplemental essays often have a distinctive focus on understanding your fit with the university’s specific environment and ethos.

For example, while Stanford University might ask you to write about intellectual vitality, UT Austin’s prompts tend to delve deeper into how you align with their unique values and community. This means your responses should be tailored not just to showcase your strengths and experiences but also to reflect a keen understanding of what makes UT Austin unique among its peers.

Comparatively, Ivy League schools like Harvard or Yale often focus on broader aspects of your personality and intellectual curiosity, allowing more leeway to explore diverse facets of your identity and interests. Their prompts might encourage you to reflect on your formative experiences or intellectual pursuits without a direct link to the university’s specific programs or culture.

On the other hand, UT Austin’s supplemental essays might ask you to discuss how specific programs, resources, or aspects of the university resonate with your goals and values. This approach requires you to research and understand UT Austin’s offerings deeply, making your essays not just a reflection of who you are but also how you see yourself thriving and contributing specifically to the UT Austin community.

Moreover, UT Austin’s supplemental essays tend to demand a level of specificity and clarity about your future aspirations that is not always emphasized to the same degree at other top universities. For instance, while a university like MIT might prompt you to discuss a past project or a creative endeavor, UT Austin’s essays might ask you to articulate your future goals and how specific aspects of the university will help you achieve them.

This forward-looking perspective is crucial in your UT Austin essays, as it demonstrates not just self-awareness but also a strategic vision of how UT Austin fits into your long-term plans. Remember, while the core of your application – showcasing your achievements, personality, and potential – remains constant across universities, each school, including UT Austin, seeks to uncover different facets of your candidacy through their supplemental essays. Tailoring your responses to align with each university’s unique prompts, especially UT Austin’s, is key to crafting a compelling and effective application.

Final Thoughts

As you wrap up your 2023-2024 UT Austin supplemental essays, remember that these pieces of writing are more than just answers to prompts; they’re reflections of who you are. You’ve put in the effort to share your story, your aspirations, and how UT Austin fits into your future. It’s a big step towards your college journey, and you should be proud of the work you’ve done.

Keep in mind, your essays are a way for the admissions team to get to know you beyond your grades and test scores. So, as you give your essays a final review, make sure they truly represent your voice and your story. If you’ve done that, you’ve already succeeded in a major part of your application.

We hope this blog has been a helpful guide in navigating the 2023-2024 UT Austin supplemental essay prompts. Good luck, and here’s to hoping to see you as part of the Longhorn community! Remember, your unique perspective is what makes your application stand out. Go for it!

AdmissionSight , a college consulting firm, offers personalized assistance to students in their college admissions journey. We help you create a strategic plan for your applic ation process, identify suitable schools aligned with your academic and personal goals, and prioritize your application strategy. 

Our experts review your application, providing constructive feedback to enhance its quality and uniqueness. We also assist in crafting compelling essays that reflect your personality and achievements, guide you through the writing process, and offer feedback on drafts. In addition, we provide interview coaching to boost your confidence and readiness for college interviews, offering tips on professional presentation and answering common questions. 

We aid in optimizing your extracurricular activities to align with your interests and goals, emphasizing leadership and initiative. Overall, AdmissionSight offers valuable guidance and support to increase your chances of college acceptance. With a strong network and a success rate exceeding 75% in the past decade, book a free initial consultation today!

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You can submit up to two letters of recommendation with your application or after you’ve submitted your application. These letters may be from mentors or people who know you well, and can include teachers, although we encourage you to provide letters from sources outside your high school. The letter should be able to give additional context or information to support your admission that is not already provided in your application or other submitted documents (resume, transcripts).

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How to Respond to the 2023/2024 UT Austin Supplemental Essay Prompts

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The University of Texas at Austin requires all applicants to submit a set of UT Austin supplemental essays. These essays are a great way to utilize creative writing to make yourself memorable and unique. Take this chance to tell your story and run with it. In this article, we will be breaking down each prompt to make each one easier to understand. Let’s go!

See also: How to write a great supplemental essay

Before you begin

• Multiple writing samples are required, including a supplemental essay and then four short answers (one of the four is optional).
• UT Austin offers students the opportunity to submit additional materials to strengthen their applications, such as letters of recommendation or an expanded resume

The UT Austin supplemental essay prompt

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

The traditional essay prompt is generally between 500 and 700 words. Compared to other supplemental essays, this is not all that long. In addition, this is an essay all about you. UT Austin wants to hear about your story and what makes you special. This is an easy topic to write about your personal experiences versus an essay that asks you to connect it back to the university. 

With that being said, you don’t have to connect it back to the university, but… it  is always a good idea to do so. This way, the people reading it are able to see what you have to offer the University of Texas, and what you bring to the table as a student. 

So, what makes you unique? If you are planning on talking about challenges for this question, we recommend thinking twice about writing about the Pandemic. This is because although you may have a unique experience, the pandemic was a challenge that everyone had to live through. Pick a challenge that is unique to you, one that makes you you . In addition to that, in the optional short answer, you have the opportunity to talk about the challenges that you were presented with during the Pandemic. 

Short answers

As mentioned above, you’ll need to write three short answer questions (and have the option to write one additional one). These can be quick and easy, but extremely influential to the college admissions process. Each response should be between 250 and 300 words.

Short answer #1

“Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major?”

This is a simple question, and easy to answer in less than 300 words. Maybe you have always known what you wanted to study in college, or maybe you are still figuring it out– whatever the case may be, just be open, honest, and concise when you speak about this topic. 

Short answer #2

“Describe how your experiences, perspectives, talents, and/or your involvement in leadership activities (at your school, job, community, or within your family) will help you to make an impact both in and out of the classroom while enrolled at UT.”

In this short answer, they are offered  the opportunity to talk about the things you are passionate about. Take this and run with it! This is one of the things that makes students stand out among the crowd– what they are passionate about and why. The trick here is connecting it back to how it currently benefits you as a student, and how it will continue to benefit you as a student. 

An example of this could be a student organization that taught you about accountability. From being in a leadership position in this organization, you learned accountability, which helped you to be a better student because you were more apt to be on time with assignments, get ahead on your schoolwork, and to hold yourself accountable. Learning these things early on helped you to build healthy learning habits that you will carry with you into college. 

Short answer #3

“The core purpose of The University of Texas at Austin is, “To Transform Lives for the Benefit of Society.” Please share how you believe your experience at UT-Austin will prepare you to “Change the World” after you graduate.”

This is arguably one of the more important short answers that UT – Austin asks you to write. They want to know that you hold similar values to their founders and the existing student body, and that you will be a good fit for their university holistically, not just academically. 

There are so many different directions that you could take this question. First, think about what you want to do with your degree after college. Then ask yourself, “What can I do at UT Austin that will not only transform my life, but how can what I learn from that experience that will help me be able to transform others’ lives as well”? This is a loaded question, and a lot more than you might be able to answer right now. Just try to be idealistic and think of your future. 

Optional short answer

“Please share background on events or special circumstances that you feel may have impacted your high school academic performance. If your response to this question is similar to one of the Common App Personal Essays, feel free to simply copy and paste the important parts of your essay here. Please limit your response to 250-300 words.”

This one is quick, easy, and a short answer that everyone should answer if their situation warrants. This is your opportunity to let UT Austin know about your struggles and help them understand your story a bit better. 

Closing thoughts for students

It is completely understandable if you are feeling overwhelmed after reading through all of these prompts. The only thing that you can do is try your best and be honest about who you are–in other words, stay true to yourself. The college admissions professionals at the University of Texas – Austin simply want to get to know you as a person, and that is why they are asking you so many questions! Remember, the prompts are not meant to make you feel overwhelmed or scared by any means. 

Additional resources

At Scholarships360, we understand that the college admissions process is a long and strenuous process. We want to make things easier for you, so we’ve curated a pretty extensive list of tips and tricks to help you out. Learn how to write an essay about yourself and perfect writing both  250  or  500 word essays. We can help you figure out how many colleges to apply to , and after,  how to make your college application shine . We wish you luck, and remind you to apply for all the scholarships you are eligible for! 

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How to Write the ApplyTexas Essays 2024-2025 + Examples

Born from the collaboration between the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and various public and private universities around the state, ApplyTexas is a wide-spanning application that allows its users to apply to hundreds of Texan colleges. Like the Common App, it offers a platform for students—natively Texan or not—to send off the same information to many schools, although each school may require differing additional information. 

Unlike the Common App, ApplyTexas may be used to apply to the community colleges, public four-years, participating private schools, graduate programs, and even scholarships within Texan borders. For this article’s purposes, we will be focusing primarily on ApplyTexas’s 150+ four-year colleges and universities. Check out our full list of Texan colleges .

Read this ApplyTexas essay example to inspire your own writing.

Which Colleges Require Which Essays?

As for the ApplyTexas essays, there are three main prompts — prompts A, B, and C — but some colleges will only require some, keep others optional, or not accept certain prompts at all. They may also have additional short answer questions and supplements of their own. Even the recommended word count varies between schools.

Here’s a quick snapshot into the unique essay requirements of a few top ApplyTexas colleges:

University of Texas at Austin:

• Choose between Topic A, B or C (optional). 
• 1 short answer responses, 1 of which is optional.
• Additional major-specific materials/requirements for art/art history, architecture, nursing, and social work programs .
• Also accepts the Common App.

Southern Methodist University:

• Topic A essay required, B is optional. 
• Also accepts the Common App, Coalition Application, and its own application.

Texas A&M University, College Station:

• Topic A is required. 
• 8 additional short answers for all applicants, 1 of which is optional.
• 1 short answer for applicants to the College of Engineering.

Baylor University, Waco:

• Also accepts the Common App and its own application.

Texas Christian University:

• Any essay topic on the ApplyTexas application (optional)
• 3 additional short answer questions, 1 of which is optional.
• Any essay topic on the ApplyTexas application (optional).
• Additional major-specific essay for Architecture, Art, Art History, Design, Studio Art, and Visual Art Studies/Art Education.

Never ignore optional prompts! Taking the time to complete them shows that you truly care about the school. Ignoring them will make admissions officers wonder if you even like it enough to actually attend it if accepted.

If you are applying to any of these universities and feel you would rather use the Coalition Application or the Common Application, see our Coalition Application Essay Guide and our Common Application Essay Guide . Keep in mind that essay requirements will vary depending on which platform you use. For instance, some schools (SMU, TCU, Baylor) may have additional short essays if you use the Common App.

If you still feel ApplyTexas is the platform for you, read on!

Before You Begin

It’s important to verify that your desired schools are featured on the ApplyTexas platform. Certain private schools—Rice University, for example—use the Common Application instead of ApplyTexas.

And while all the public universities in Texas accept ApplyTexas, some of them also accept the Common Application and Coalition Application, as we’ve seen. The Common Application , Coalition Application , and ApplyTexas offer tools to determine whether a university is included in their platform. Be sure to verify which application is better suited to your college list. Many students can tackle all their schools with just the Common App, but others may have to use a couple different platforms.

Approaching the ApplyTexas Essays

So you’ve worked through the application form, requested copies of your transcript and recommendation letters, effectively described your extracurriculars, and sent in your scores, if any. All that remains now are the essays: your best shot at showing admissions officers how you think, who you are, what matters to you, and why!

As you may remember, ApplyTexas contains three essay prompts: Topics A, B, and C. Each school may have different essay requirements, so it is best to familiarize yourself with all of them. For instance, even if you’re bursting with knowledge about your future major, these essays are an opportunity to speak holistically with regards to your life and experience.

Essay-Writing Strategies

With few parameters aside from the word limit of approximately 800 words (and with each school often setting different word counts), the ApplyTexas essay may seem intimidating. Luckily, the prompts can act as a creative and procedural tether. Whereas students applying via Common Application may begin by shaping a central idea before matching it up to one of the various prompts, ApplyTexas essays grow from the prompt up . Because of this, the best brainstorming and organizational practices for each prompt are unique. The one factor that remains ubiquitously relevant is writing — good writing. Before we get into the details of ideation and organization for each prompt, we’ll review some ways to ensure your writing is clear, communicative, and evocative.

Tips for writing well:

• Show, don’t tell (you’ve heard it before, but it’s worth hearing again!)
• Use active, rather than passive, sentence construction.
• Write with precision.
• Avoid clichés

The somewhat hackneyed advice of “Show, don’t tell” is nevertheless crucial to writing a compelling application essay. The meaning of showing a reader rather than telling them is best interpreted literally. Imagine you’re outside your house and you see a dog skateboarding on it’s two front paws. You run inside, eager to { tell, show } whoever is home. You fling open the door and narrowly avoid a collision with your brother, still unlacing his shoes from basketball practice.

You tell him: “Aamir, I just saw a dog skateboarding on its two front paws!”

You show him: You grab Aamir by the corner of his Jersey. “Come quick” you squeal, and he stumbles out after you, tripping on his laces. Thankfully, the dog is still there. “Just look,” you breathe out, already mesmerized by the wind rushing through the schnauzer’s mustache. Wobbling ever so slightly, the pup remains confident as he shreds the inclined blacktop of the cul-de-sac. Then, a moment later, it’s over. Unaware of the scale of his accomplishment, the dog scratches behind his right ear. You look over at Aamir. “Whoa.”

Out of these two scenarios, we can be sure that Aamir will only remember the second. It’s much the same for admissions committees; they’re more likely to remember you if you show them what you want to communicate. Now, showing doesn’t need to be much longer than telling. In fact, succinct writing is just as important as descriptive writing. Abandoning the literal narrative of “showing,” we’re left with something like this: A schnauzer puppy from the cul-de-sac was balanced on his front paws—miraculously, on a skateboard. Man, that dog could shred.

Using active voice is another crucial component of clean, clear writing. It’s also pretty simple. Make sure your sentence’s subject performs the action indicated by the verb. For example, instead of writing “the skateboard was maneuvered by a schnauzer,” you would opt for, “the schnauzer maneuvered the skateboard.” The only exception to this rule is when you want to bring explicit attention to the person or thing affected by an action. Our story is actually a decent example. What’s more noteworthy? The skateboarding? Or the fact that a dog is doing it? An acceptable passive construction might look like this: “the skateboard—would you believe it—was being maneuvered by none other than the schnauzer from across the cul-de-sac.” In this instance, we’re able to use passive voice to create humor and suspense. That being said, the vast majority of your sentences should employ the active voice.

The active voice is also a big part of writing with precision , and word choice may also make writing precise or imprecise. For example, while “evasive” is a synonym of “oblique” in one sense, it would nevertheless be embarrassing to write that, “John sat in the armchair evasive to the television.” Rather than picturing a chair positioned diagonally (obliquely) from the television, readers are left wondering what in the world an evasive chair might be. So use your thesaurus — carefully. 

It is common for burgeoning writers to get a little too adjective-happy. Adjectives’ power correlates inversely with their use. If each of your sentences is flush with adjectives, you’re diluting their impact.

Finally, avoid any clichés, aphorisms, etc. that fail to add value to your essay. Admissions officers will read countless essays boasting “Be the change you want to see in the world.”  If you’re tempted to use a hackneyed phrase, find its seed instead. Clichés are cliché because they stem from important thoughts, universal truths, and romantic principles. In the case of “Be the change you want to see in the world,” the seed might be an individual’s ability to impact a community, or to transform outdated and unjust systems. The seed of a clichéd phrase may still be worth writing about, but it’s important that you write authentically and originally.

Dissecting the Prompts

ApplyTexas features two sets of prompts, one for incoming freshmen (both domestic and international) and one for transfer, transient, or readmit applications. In this article, we will cover the first set to help freshman applicants. Want to know your chances at an ApplyTexas school? Calculate your chances for free right now.

While different schools require different combinations of essays, most students should be prepared to deal with topics A, B, and C. Students intent on pursuing a degree related to art and design should also be ready to answer topic D. Check out this ApplyTexas database to scout out which schools will require which essays . 

Here are this year’s prompts:

• 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 (specific to majors in architecture, art history, design, studio art, visual art studies/art education): 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?

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

Notice how you are encouraged to speak about an opportunity or a challenge. Many students believe that they must talk about a tragedy in order to grab the attention of admissions officers, but this isn’t true. An essay can easily be thoughtful, insightful, and an engaging read without utilizing this specific emotional appeal.

Still, stories about difficult circumstances are often memorable. They are most effective when focused primarily on the student’s journey of working through the challenge instead of the challenge itself. Check out Collegevine’s article if you would like more tips on writing about challenges .

You’re trying to stand out, so beware of overused tropes like the following:

• Mental illness: It takes enormous strength to heal from and learn to manage a mental illness. Still, they may be tricky to write about. Read our article for more information on covering mental illness and disabilities within your application .
• Getting a bad grade in a class but then working hard to raise it.
• Sports stories such as winning/losing the “big game” or getting injured.
• Death of a pet or family member.
• Mission trip which made you realize how lucky and privileged you are.

Side note : Sometimes students face challenges that are outside of their control and which have negatively impacted their academic and/or extracurricular performance. If this has been your experience, and you don’t plan to explain them within this essay response, you may ask one of your recommenders to do so through their letter of recommendation.

Now, there’s no such thing as a “bad” or “good” essay topic; students have gotten into top schools with essays about Costco, pizza deliveries, and sparkling water. It often matters less so what you write about than how you write about it! 

These common essay topics are only doable when well-written, specific, and featuring a fresh take. The story of how fixing your Calculus grade taught you the value of hard work is not nearly as interesting as that of a student who is diagnosed with dyscalculia—a disability which creates a difficulty in understanding and working with math and numbers—and then opens up a dyscalculia awareness club with plans to become a special education teacher. The latter story would demonstrate the student’s ability to turn preconceived weaknesses into strengths, and admissions officers will quickly see that though he may initially struggle with long division, this student is nonetheless a creative problem-solver.

Please be aware that although it is possible to make a “common” topic interesting, it is easier to write about a situation that is unique to begin with. Also, don’t feel pressured to write about a challenge, especially if the situation has happened so recently that you haven’t fully finished processing or growing from it.

With all of this in mind, let’s get into brainstorming! Many people begin their ideation process through writing long lists or even talking into their phones in an untethered stream-of-consciousness. Do whatever it takes to get your creative juices flowing! 

As you reflect, you may consider these questions:

• Which values and skills do you hold closest to your heart? Honesty? Hard work? Clear communication? Diversity? Environmental stewardship? Activism? Where did these priorities come from?
• What are you most grateful for? What are you most proud of? What risks have you taken which have paid off?
• What do you like to do? When and how did you get into it?
• How would your family and friends say you have changed for the better over the years, and why?
• Look back at your list of extracurricular activities. Which ones were challenging and/or special opportunities? When have you tried something new?

Practice self-compassion while considering topics, and know that none are too big or too small. You can write about anything from taking a summer math class (even though you’re more of an English person) to being a camp counselor to giving your first speech in front of a crowd.

Overall, the admissions officers are looking for growth. They want to see the circumstances you turned into opportunities for improvement. You may even reflect upon a situation that initially seemed like an unpleasant challenge but later revealed itself as a hidden opportunity. For example, you may have reluctantly let your friend drag you to a business club meeting before discovering a passion for economics and rising as a club leader.

Ideally, your story will be unique and offer a fresh perspective. Be specific about the challenge or opportunity you were presented with, and think about how it changed you for the better. 

Remember, they are literally asking for you to “tell [them] your story,” so consider using a narrative format, especially if storytelling is a talent of yours. 

Here’s a general outline: 

• If you choose to go with a traditional storytelling format, we recommend beginning with a vivid anecdote featuring rich imagery to draw the reader in or an unexpected premise which makes one have to read on in order to fully understand. 
• From there, you may dive into who you were at the time, how you felt and how you acted, before moving towards your turning point—the challenge or opportunity—from which you decided to grow. 
• Explain how, exactly, the turning point influenced you. Ask yourself: How did it make you feel? Excited and ready for more, or initially anxious? How did it impact you? Perhaps you learned something new about yourself, or maybe now you’re kinder, more confident, or a harder worker. 
• To mix it up a bit, you could even play with sequencing, perhaps starting with a moment of success before reflecting on all of the growth you had to complete to get to that point.

Finally, you are human, so you don’t have to portray yourself as perfect in the end. You are using this essay to talk about what may be one of your greatest strengths or sources of pride, but make sure to stay balanced with a humble tone.

Here’s an Example Essay for Topic A:

The morning of the Model United Nation conference, I walked into Committee feeling confident  about my research. We were simulating the Nuremberg Trials – a series of post-World War II  proceedings for war crimes – and my portfolio was of the Soviet Judge Major General Iona  Nikitchenko. Until that day, the infamous Nazi regime had only been a chapter in my history  textbook; however, the conference’s unveiling of each defendant’s crimes brought those horrors  to life. The previous night, I had organized my research, proofread my position paper and gone  over Judge Nikitchenko’s pertinent statements. I aimed to find the perfect balance between his  stance and my own.

As I walked into committee anticipating a battle of wits, my director abruptly called out to me.  “I’m afraid we’ve received a late confirmation from another delegate who will be representing  Judge Nikitchenko. You, on the other hand, are now the defense attorney, Otto Stahmer.”  Everyone around me buzzed around the room in excitement, coordinating with their allies and  developing strategies against their enemies, oblivious to the bomb that had just dropped on me.  I felt frozen in my tracks, and it seemed that only rage against the careless delegate who had  confirmed her presence so late could pull me out of my trance. After having spent a month  painstakingly crafting my verdicts and gathering evidence against the Nazis, I now needed to  reverse my stance only three hours before the first session.

Gradually, anger gave way to utter panic. My research was fundamental to my performance, and without it, I knew I could add little to the Trials. But confident in my ability, my director  optimistically recommended constructing an impromptu defense. Nervously, I began my  research anew. Despite feeling hopeless, as I read through the prosecution’s arguments, I  uncovered substantial loopholes. I noticed a lack of conclusive evidence against the defendants  and certain inconsistencies in testimonies.

My discovery energized me, inspiring me to revisit  the historical overview in my conference “Background Guide” and to search the web for other  relevant articles. Some Nazi prisoners had been treated as “guilty” before their court dates.  While I had brushed this information under the carpet while developing my position as a judge,  it now became the focus of my defense. I began scratching out a new argument, centered on the premise that the allied countries had violated the fundamental rule that, a defendant was “not guilty” until proven otherwise.

At the end of the three hours, I felt better prepared. The first session began, and with bravado, I  raised my placard to speak. Microphone in hand, I turned to face my audience. “Greetings  delegates. I, Otto Stahmer would like to…….” I suddenly blanked. Utter dread permeated my  body as I tried to recall my thoughts in vain. “Defence Attorney, Stahmer we’ll come back to  you,” my Committee Director broke the silence as I tottered back to my seat, flushed with  embarrassment. Despite my shame, I was undeterred. I needed to vindicate my director’s faith  in me. I pulled out my notes, refocused, and began outlining my arguments in a more clear and  direct manner. Thereafter, I spoke articulately, confidently putting forth my points. I was  overjoyed when Secretariat members congratulated me on my fine performance.

Going into the conference, I believed that preparation was the key to success. I wouldn’t say I  disagree with that statement now, but I believe adaptability is equally important. My ability to  problem-solve in the face of an unforeseen challenge proved advantageous in the art of  diplomacy. Not only did this experience transform me into a confident and eloquent delegate at  that conference, but it also helped me become a more flexible and creative thinker in a variety of other capacities. Now that I know I can adapt under pressure, I look forward to engaging in  activities that will push me to be even quicker on my feet.

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

This prompt is a more varied than the first one, and gives you more leeway in choosing what you’ll actually be talking about. Someone’s identity, talents, and interests, might be linked together but they just as easily might not. Either way, don’t worry. With regards to this prompt, there is no ideal angle. Let’s break down what it could mean to address each of these categories.

Identity can refer to any number of traits that you feel define you. This includes race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, and other more community-based identities such as gamer, athlete, artist, weaver, dancer, Democrat, etc. Your identity is simply what makes you, you. Essays about identity are a great opportunity to demonstrate your critical and political acuity, personal convictions, and social history. However, they also pose certain risks. The premise of writing about identity is that you’ll demonstrate what makes you unique as a person. Even though many of us share certain identity traits, we’ve all experienced them differently. It’s especially important to focus on those details. Essays about identity that lack individual texture risk making you appear almost clone-like. That being said, there is no topic that is inherently cliché for this prompt.

Talent is a topic that will surely feel familiar to you as a prospective college applicant. Frankly, that’s what can make it tricky to write an essay about your talents—it risks echoing the several other parts of an application that are designed to draw out and display your talents for an admissions committee. Even so, if you believe that you have gained an especially insightful lesson or reflection from one of your listed activities, it may still be worth writing about. Just make sure you’re elaborating on your talents rather than reiterating them. Beyond the talents already featured in your application, many applicants have a talent that stands out from their formal talents and activities. One might be a master bird-caller, for example, but not have it listed as an extracurricular. Often times, writing about a wild-card talent is a way to introduce a facet of your personality that would otherwise remain invisible. The topic of talent also gives you the opportunity to write about certain interpersonal skills that might be especially important to you but impossible to express on a resume. For example, if you cultivate your skills as a listener and have a well-formulated political or philosophical imperative for doing so, that could make a great topic.

Interests are unique from talents in that you need not necessarily be good at them. They might not even be skills-related to begin with. For example, you might be supremely interested in pigeons but unable to include that interest in any other part of the application. Interests can make for especially unique, quirky, and fascinating essays. That being said, such essays also risk missing the whole point of the prompt. You need to tell the committee about yourself. If you choose to write about an obscure interest, it’ll be crucial to relate it back to your personality, outlook, or identity.

Now that we’ve addressed the differences between the subsections of this prompt, let’s review some ways in which you can brainstorm. While writing about identity, talents, or interests will result in slightly different essays, the goal is the same: to show the admissions committee—through your own eyes—who exactly you are.

The first step in brainstorming for this prompt is making a list of your defining characteristics. As you do this, you’ll want to prioritize characteristics that paint you in a generally positive light. While you don’t want to brag, you definitely want to be optimistic about who you are.

Second , you should make a sort of genealogy for each characteristic. How did they come to be so important to you? What experiences built up to the point where you’d consider a trait to be essential to your personality?

Finally , you’re going to need to rank your traits and their accompanying genealogies. For some students, who have a very central and defining trait, this won’t be tricky at all. But for students who are less certain what to write about, it will be important to prioritize the traits with the most interesting genealogies. Seeing as you want to show the committee rather than tell them, it’s crucial that you pick a trait that has a compelling history—that fits into a narrative or intellectual picture of yourself. This is especially essential for students intent on taking a more creative tone with this prompt. While an obscure interest can be interesting and endearing, it needs to have a compelling genesis and impact within your personal history.

Here’s an Example Essay for Topic B:

In one of the side streets of Rabat, one of the many winding corridors in the Medina, a long-abandoned house is standing, dilapidated from its years of neglect. The windows have been smashed; valuable materials have been ripped out of the floor and graffiti smears peeling walls. Yet remnants of its old life still remain intact; photo albums clutch family moments as cobwebs dangle from their spines. A mini plastic basketball hoop clings to a wall and a handmade poster above it reads “Senior League: Armond – Junior: Sasha and Lucy” but the faded yellow of the net suggests that no games have been played here for a long time. Not since we left. Mom left him just as I was turning four. The relationship had been emotionally stressful for the past few years and the threat of physical danger forced her to make a secret escape with us. We left everything behind.

Thousands of miles away and thirteen years later, I have never been back. I have never met him. As young as I was, I have not been oblivious to his absence. Even now, there are moments when I experience this emptiness inside of me. A sensation so overwhelming, I can’t believe I have managed to ignore it for so long. I lie down, close my eyes and grieve. Not just for him but for the life I never had, or at least, the one I left behind and can no longer remember. As the tears stop, I slowly drift to sleep. Sometimes I dream that he has unexpectedly turned up on the doorstep of our Chicago house especially for me. I open the door and immediately recognize him. I jump into his arms, simultaneously crying and laughing. I wake up, the empty feeling has passed and I know that he will never come. But I can’t help romanticizing the first time we meet.

However, going on eighteen, reality is soon catching up with me. Four years ago at the age of eighteen my brother, Armond, travelled to Morocco to meet him. Last year my sister, Sasha, did the same. So now, it is my turn; my own rite of passage awaits me. I have been waiting for this opportunity my whole life, even imagined it ten times over. But the more I thought about it, the more I doubted it. As the youngest in the family, I have striven to emulate my siblings in many ways. I could feel the assumption that I would go to meet him just as they did. However, I know that I am not yet ready. Unlike Sasha and Armond, my memories of Rabat are just a haze. I do not know whether they are real, or dreams or stories I have been told. I don’t understand any Arabic, and his English is very broken. And most of all, I cannot remember his face. The emptiness still comes back every now and then. But I know that the hole is not father-shaped, and if I meet him now, he might think it is. What I need to do first is to find out who I am before I can know what shape that hole really is. And when I know, I will understand what it would mean to meet him. For now at least, that tired old home stays suspended; a three-dimensional snapshot of my forgotten childhood. I like to think it’s waiting for me; waiting for when I’m ready to go back.

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

Topic C stands opposed to Topics A and B in that it is almost entirely oriented towards the future. While each of your essays should demonstrate a degree of imagination, this prompt also carries the most overt call for creativity. There are two main genres of responses to prompts like this. The first genre adds to the forecasting effort found throughout your whole application. The second represents a creative departure from the path of your ambitions.

Choosing a Genre:

Forecasting is what you do when you make promises or predictions about what you’ll do with an educational opportunity. You’re forecasting when you tell UT Austin that you want to attend their engineering program in order to realize your dream of developing clean, public transportation. You’re forecasting when you draw conclusions from your past accomplishments to predict your future success. The act of applying to a school is inherently future-oriented. That being said, good applications demand cohesion and balance. An application that is too future-oriented will leave the admissions officers wondering who exactly you are . An application that is too auto-ethnographic will leave them wondering about your ambitions .

A forecast oriented answer to topic C will likely link-up with other parts of your application. For example, the engineering student from the example above might write that they’re holding a ticket for the very first 100% green, interstate transportation system—a system that they’ve spent the past 15 years building from the ground up. In this case, the essay looks back from a future point in which the student has fulfilled the ambitions they forecasted. It’s also possible to write this essay looking forward. Students that hope to attend medical school or law school might write about holding a “ticket” to their tertiary degree. These essays would go on to imagine the important, transformative work that those students would accomplish when they get to medical/law school.

Here’s an Example Essay for Topic C:

I’m holding a flyer that declares the date and time—this coming Tuesday at 7:30 PM—for a meeting of the Low Carbon Emissions Workers’ Union. Twelve years ago, when I started my undergraduate degree in public policy, the union was only a flicker of a thought, housed somewhere in the back of my mind. Still, those years were crucial. With every class I took, whether in policy studies, environmental science, or history, that flicker grew stronger. Following my interest in labor, I developed a rapport with the university employees that kept things rolling on campus—the people that took care of us, really. For my senior thesis, I made it my mission to collect and present an oral history of labor on campus. Many university workers expressed a sense of relief at being employed by the university. It allowed for decent wages and preserved the dignity of it’s workforce through open dialogue and worker representation. Through this sense of relief—or rather, through its negative—my thesis became invested in the alternatives for these laborers, in what lay on the other side of their relief. Though they were specifically skilled in care work, janitorial work, landscaping, and more, most of them told me that outside the university there was little opportunity for the advancement of worker’s interests. Finding work on a free-lance basis or through predatory placement companies, these care-laborers were largely on their own.

After graduating, I stayed in touch with my contacts at the university. Throughout law school, I made time to continue coordinating with them. We were hatching a revolutionary idea. Our goal was to create a union that could unite the various forms of under-the-radar care-work that was so often left out of organized bargaining units. The plan that we finally realized was even bigger than that. Not only would it unite domestic workers, janitors, and landscapers, its umbrella would extend to cover teachers, day-care supervisors, nurses, artists, and agricultural workers. This was the Low Carbon Emissions Workers’ Union. While it contained specifically oriented compartments, each aimed at advancing the rights of a particular sub-group of laborers, its superstructure was perhaps the more significant. In the same way that my senior thesis became invested in its negative all those years ago, this union stood as a foil to the socially and environmentally destructive tendencies of so many economic giants. We mobilized and housed research regarding Green-GDP, environmentally adjusted Gini coefficients, and other methods aimed at illuminating the real cost of having an economy predicated on environmental exploitation. As a political and intellectual force, the union gained ground in reevaluating the ways in which we value certain kinds of labor over others.

I’m smiling as I tack the flyer to the community board at my old university. I step back to look at it. “I can’t believe this is where it all started,” I think to myself. “Well, see you all this Tuesday.”

The genre of creative departure allows you to focus more on your personality, imagination, and capacity for critical thought. If you feel that your application already does enough to forecast your ambitions, you may opt to write about something completely unrelated. Especially for students applying to creative programs such as theatre or studio art, this can be a good moment to demonstrate your fit. Students who pick this genre can write about almost literally anything. The ticket in your hand could be for a time-machine to the Renaissance, a one-way expedition to Mars, or a mysterious back-alley puppet show. The important thing is that you use the premise of your essay to reflect on the world in a mature and thoughtful manner.

Here’s another Example Essay for Topic C:

“Take a number” buzzes an automated voice from somewhere inside the ticket booth. I reach out and tear off a slip of blue paper. 96. “Great,” I snort, “might as well settle in for the long haul.”

Someone behind me notices my annoyance and pipes up.

“I know right? I’ve never seen the time machines so crowded in my life.”

“Me neither,” I respond, “application season I guess.”

“Must be. Damn ticket prompts.”

I turn around to address my queue-compatriot. He’s a tall guy, pretty built for our age—probably a football player or something. He looks anxiously down the line, craning his neck to see something or someone just out of view.

“What’s got your nerves up?” I ask, “where are you headed?”

“You know,” he shrugged, “the usual. Off to 1904 to encourage Hitler to pursue his passion for painting. I’m just worried she’s gonna get there first.” I stepped out of line to see where he was looking. Fourth in line was a girl decked out in all black, determination etched into her features.

“Is she carrying a rail-gun?” I ask, stepping back into line. Football nods. “Yeesh…that’s a bit extreme but to each their own I guess. Wonder how the AdComms are gonna feel about that.”

Football fidgets for a few minutes before asking, “And you? What’s your plan?”

“Way back. Off to the early fifth-century to help Pelagius argue against St. Augustine.”

“Pelagius. He was an early theologian that rallied against Augustine’s notion of original sin.”

Football nods. “So all that with Eve and the apple, yeah?”

“Exactly. The doctrine of original sin says that because Adam and Eve had the apple, every human from then on was infected with their sin. That’s one of the reasons babies are baptized, to cleanse them. It’s behind a whole host of other things too. All the indulgences that people paid into the church, our long-standing association of sexuality with guilt and impurity, not to mention most of the pessimistic philosophies surrounding human depravity.”

Football chuckles. “So let’s say you win” he proposes, “then what? Babies don’t get baptized? There are still nineteen people ahead of us. You might want to change plans.”

My brow furrows a bit as I consider his suggestion. “I don’t know,” I say, “Pelagius argued for a whole lot of things. He was a big proponent of free will and accountability. He thought we should do good for the sake of good, not for salvation. He even countered a lot of hang-ups that endure to this day—bedroom stuff, bathroom stuff, all of it. Where Augustine saw sin and depravity, Pelagius saw beauty and Grace.” I continue. “I mean, I’m not even religious. I just think we could use a sort of ‘reset’ for our collective psyche. People are too caught up in hating themselves. We’re subconsciously misanthropic and it hurts. It hurts when a corporation takes advantage of a mining community because profit is the only legitimate motive in a world that seems like a lost cause. It hurts all the young people who hate their bodies and strive for an unrealistic ‘cleanliness’ from deformity and irregularity. It hurts women who get told they’ll be ‘second-hand stock’ if they have sex before marriage. It hurts when the police open fire in a neighborhood because they’re scared a kid might do it first.”

“Yeah” he nods, “hey, do you mind if I tag along? Mine might be a lost cause anyways—that girl was scary.”

Just then my number comes up on the time machine’s display. I look up at Football. “Sure. Why not. Oh, and I don’t think I caught your name.”

“It’s Bryan.”

“Well Bryan, we’re off.”

(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 affected 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?”

Topic D is a situational prompt for students looking to engage with art, design, and image. Unlike topics A and B, topic D is specifically asking you to tell a story. Regardless of the mode of narrative you employ, your essay should start with a moment of confrontation, observation, and reaction. Whether you engage with a piece of art or a lecture from design class, this step is crucial. It is here that you will demonstrate your ability to sift through your feelings about art, pulling out the concrete variables and specific vocabularies to describe why the art made you feel that way in the first place. It’s unsurprising that the prompt is so intent on drawing this out from you—understanding how art has impacted you is the first step towards creating art to impact others.

The second part of this process should move you beyond the moment of interaction detailed in step one, either to the present or the future. In this section, you’ll want to set your compass, so to speak. Using the lessons from part one, you should forecast the ways in which your future ambitions will be uniquely impactful. This can include anything from aperture to allegory. Whether technical or philosophical, your art is largely a product of your inspiration—being able to trace and predict this link demonstrates your maturity as a budding artist or designer.

Here’s an Example Essay for Topic D:

Standing in the Musée de l’Orangerie, surrounded on all sides by Monet’s Water Lilies, I felt myself melt away. The noise of the room seemed to dim, even as my perception heightened. I was somewhere else. The water lilies had swallowed me whole. They were beautiful, certainly, but also tense. One of the lesser-known iterations, flush with the purples, golds, and oranges of autumn, reminded me of the fluttering dance of falling leaves. And yet, its leaves were static—not because they weren’t real; they were real to me in that moment—but because of the water’s tension. Tethered to the surface of the pond, equally unable to float up or down, the leaves were trapped in a planar prison. The painting was practically bursting with the energy of an infinite autumn, but the water held it all together with its sticky buoyancy. Surface tension is far crueler than gravity, I thought to myself. My throat tightened and I felt paralyzed, peacefully imprisoned along with the lilies and leaves.

“Huh.” My brother stepped up beside me. “Look, you can see the canvas poking through,” he whispered, nudging me. He was right. As my eyes latched onto those bare fibers I felt a gust of release; I was back in the room.

To this day, that remains one of my most intense experiences with art. While it wasn’t exactly euphoric, it was transformative. Spanning the whole wall, the water lilies are all you can see; they colonize your reality. It was that quality—the quality of transportation out of time and space—that has stayed with me most. Monet’s techniques, brushstrokes that infuse the canvas with texture and momentum, allowed for a sort of virtual reality. VR before VR. It was the power of that experience that prompted me to combine my art with contemporary VR techniques. My first VR project pays homage to the water lilies. Putting on the headset, you find yourself in a blue green film, replete with flowers of every kind. It’s peaceful but when you try to move you find that the further you stray, the slower you get. A few feet out and you’re snapped back to the start. The piece explores movement and energy through anxiety and ensnarement.

As I continue my education in fine art, I’m primed to explore the range of possibilities allowed by VR technology. I’m eager to create landscape experiences that more directly implicate art and embodiment. My current project also takes inspiration from Monet’s impressionism. Entering the reality, one finds oneself on the top of flower-freckled hillside, umbrella in hand despite the blue skies. It is windy and the grasses sway around you. Slowly, almost imperceptibly at first, you begin to blow away, to disperse, until there’s nothing left. The viewer is utterly gone, yet utterly present.

Want to learn more about how to write the ApplyTexas essays? Check out one of our popular recorded live streams on this topic.

Where to Get Your ApplyTexas Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your ApplyTexas essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools.  Find the right advisor for you  to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

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Apply Texas Essays 2022‒2023

Apply texas essays 2023.

If you live in Texas or plan on applying to schools there, it’s likely that you’ve heard of the Apply Texas portal . At Texas schools, the Apply Texas essays are an important part of the application process. In fact, the Apply Texas essays are the best way to let your personality, experiences, and interests impress admissions teams. 

In many ways, Apply Texas—including the Apply Texas essays—resembles the Common Application. So, you can likely repurpose plenty of information from the Common Application as you complete the Apply Texas application. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to tackle each of the Apply Texas essays. We’ll discuss:

• General information about the Apply Texas portal 
• How to respond to each of the Apply Texas essay prompts
• Different Texas college requirements
• The importance of the Apply Texas essays
• More useful essay resources from CollegeAdvisor

Now, let’s start our deep dive into the Apply Texas essays. But first, let’s talk about the Apply Texas application more broadly. 

What is Apply Texas?

Apply Texas is a college application portal where students can apply to higher education institutes in Texas. The portal was created in order to allow students to fill out one application for all Texas schools. Students will create an Apply Texas login in order to access their applications. 

However, while many of the best colleges in Texas require an Apply Texas login to complete their application, some don’t. So, make sure to check the application requirements for every school. 

Apply Texas essay vs. the Common Application essay

You may be wondering, what’s the difference between the Apply Texas essay and the Common Application essay? Well, logically, Apply Texas can only be used to apply to schools in the state of Texas. However, some Texas schools may also accept applications through the Common Application or Coalition Application. If that’s the case, then you can decide which portal to use. 

Overall, the Apply Texas essay format is similar to the Common Application essay format. This means that many of the tools you’ve used for your Common Application essay will help you complete your Apply Texas essays. You can also look at Common App essay examples to help you write the Apply Texas essays. 

Understanding the Apply Texas essay requirements

Different schools will have different requirements when it comes to the Apply Texas essay prompts. Some schools may not even require an essay at all. 

For example, Texas State University applicants will complete their applications using the Apply Texas login. While Texas State only lists their essay as “highly recommended,” you should still complete it. You can also check out some Apply Texas essays examples to bolster your application. 

The Apply Texas application also has its own unique Apply Texas essay prompts, which differ from the prompts on the Common App. So, while you might be able to repurpose your Common App essay for one of the Apply Texas essay prompts, you should think carefully about your choice of topic. 

What schools use Apply Texas?

Many two- and four-year universities in Texas use Apply Texas. This includes the majority of public universities as well as some private colleges. 

However, you should always double-check each school’s admissions site to see which application portal you should use. Each school’s requirements will vary. 

You can use Apply Texas to apply to some of the best colleges in Texas , including UT Austin and Texas A&M University. However, Rice University—the top college in Texas, according to U.S. News—does not use Apply Texas. 

Understanding the Apply Texas essay format

If you’re planning to apply to multiple Texas schools, you should create an Apply Texas login. However, all schools’ requirements will be different. This means the Apply Texas essay format could slightly vary.

While you’ll find one Apply Texas essay word limit on the application itself, different schools will recommend different word counts. You may also not complete all of the Apply Texas essays for every school.

So, top Texas universities such as the University of Houston , Texas Tech , and TCU will have slightly different requirements, even though you’ll use the same Apply Texas login to access their applications. Use our College Search Feature below to learn more about each school’s unique features!

What are the Apply Texas essays?

Next, let’s check out the Apply Texas essays. 

There are three Apply Texas essay prompts. You’ll complete different Apply Texas essays depending on which schools you apply to. For example, some schools may require that students respond to the Apply Texas essay A, while others may let you choose your prompt.  

Below, we’ve provided a chart with each of the Apply Texas essay prompts. 

Applicants should also note that Apply Texas word limits will vary by school. In this chart, we’ve provided the word limit suggested by the portal itself. However, you should adapt your word count to each university’s requirements. 

Remember to consider school supplements 

Additionally, note that some universities will require other short essays as well as one of the Apply Texas essay prompts. 

For example, the UT Austin application will differ from the Baylor application even though both will use an Apply Texas login. Likewise, the UT Austin application requirements aren’t exactly the same as the UT Dallas application requirements. So, always be sure to double-check the admissions sites for school specifics. 

Before tackling your Apply Texas essays, try to read some Apply Texas essays examples. This will give you an idea of the different ways to approach the essay. The Apply Texas essay format can vary, so looking at Apply Texas essays examples can help you think outside of the box. 

How long should Apply Texas essays be?

As you tackle the Apply Texas essays, you should keep the word count in mind. According to the Apply Texas application portal, you have 800 words for each of your essays. 

However, when it comes to the word limit, you’ll want to see what each university requires or recommends. Every school’s requirements will be different. 

Let’s check out a couple of schools in Texas and compare their approach to their Apply Texas essay word limit. 

The University of Texas Austin requires its applicants to respond to Apply Texas Essay A if using the Apply Texas application. Their word limit is 500-700. Additionally, students will complete three required short answer essays with word limits of 250-300 words. They can also choose to complete a fourth optional essay (also 250-300 words). 

Alternatively, Texas Tech does not require applicants to complete an essay. However, the essay is “highly recommended.” So, as usual, consider this optional essay a requirement. If using the Apply Texas application, Texas Tech gives students the option to respond to Apply Texas Essay A or B. They have placed a 500-word limit on this essay. Check out some tips from Texas Tech admissions to write your Apply Texas essays. 

Texas Christian University

The TCU admissions office requires applicants to complete one essay. However, which of the Apply Texas essays students write is up to them. The word limit is 300-500 words, so you’ll need to impress TCU admissions with a concise, authentic, and passionate essay. 

As you begin your Apply Texas essays, check out Common App essay examples and Apply Texas essays examples to help you prepare.

Apply Texas Essay 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.

The Apply Texas Essay A seems to be the overwhelming favorite among universities using the Apply Texas essays. This prompt asks students to “tell us your story.” Simple enough, right? 

Of course, a prompt this broad can feel overwhelming. However, it’s a great opportunity to show admissions who you are. This is your chance to really make your application stand out by sharing something that you haven’t yet revealed (or expanded upon) in other parts of your Apply Texas application. 

This prompt is quite similar to one of the Common Application prompts. So, if you want some inspiration, you can check out Common App essay examples. 

Which Texas colleges require it?

Surprisingly, many universities in Texas do not require applicants to submit an essay. However, if a school includes an “optional” essay requirement, you should still submit one. The Apply Texas essays are a great way to stand out and enrich your application narrative. 

That being said, some universities in Texas do require applicants to submit Apply Texas Essay A. For instance, Texas A&M requires applicants to respond to Apply Texas Essay A. And, as we mentioned, the UT Austin application also requires Apply Texas Essay A.  

Remember, while going through the Apply Texas application, double-check the essay requirements. They will vary depending on each school. 

How to write Apply Texas Essay A

Like many college essays, Apply Texas Essay A asks you to share experiences that have made you who you are. Whether you have a million ideas or are drawing a complete blank, don’t worry. We’re here to help.

Let’s check out the best way to respond to Apply Texas Essay A.

You could probably tell many stories. Apply Texas Essay A asks you to share just one. This leaves a lot of room for interpretation. 

So, think about significant moments in your life. It could be easier to focus on the last few years, as you’ve probably grown a lot throughout high school. 

Make a list of moments that have changed or shaped you as a person. No moment is too small to include. As long as it shows some growth—and you can write authentically and passionately about it—then it’s a good topic. 

Answer the prompt completely

Now, the prompt mentions an opportunity or challenge. Don’t blatantly point out this in your draft by stating “this was a huge challenge/opportunity.” Most likely, if you’ve chosen a story that shows your personal growth, then it’s probably an opportunity or challenge. And, if you tell your story well, this will come through. 

You will need to clearly show how that moment that you’re sharing has shaped who you are today. For example, let’s say that you want to discuss the day you went to your first protest. From that moment forward you’ve been passionate about activism. That clearly shows how pivotal this moment was in your life. Maybe it’s even shaped what you’d like to study or your future career. 

Remember to research your school, too. Well-written Apply Texas essays will be specific to each individual school. For example, if writing an essay for Southern Methodist University , check out their specific programs and offerings. Even though this isn’t a “why school” essay, you can still link your interests and growth to the school.

Write passionately

This isn’t the time to write vague statements that could apply to any high school student. Your story should be unique to you. Make sure to choose your topic wisely to highlight your passion and authenticity. 

Don’t be afraid to get creative. Set the scene. Remember that it’s much more impactful to show rather than tell when writing. If we continue with our protest example, you might open your essay by describing the atmosphere using descriptive language that puts the reader right there with you. Then, you can reflect back on how this moment has affected you to date. 

Apply Texas Essays – Topic B

While a few schools require applicants to answer the Apply Texas essay A, some may ask you to choose which essay to respond to. Let’s review the second of the Apply Texas essay prompts:

Some students have an identity, an interest, or a talent that defines them in an essential way. If you are one of these students, then tell us about yourself.

Again, the goal of this prompt, like all of the Apply Texas essays, is to let you show each school what makes you unique. You should also aim to relate it back to your aspirations. For example, how does who you are shape what you want in your future?

Approaching Apply Texas Essay B

Topic B asks you to explore a part of your identity. Is there something you can point out that shows your values, character, and personality?

For example, maybe you’ve been dancing ballet since you started walking. Maybe it’s become a form of meditation or a way for you to express yourself. Perhaps it’s taught you discipline. It doesn’t matter how it’s shaped you (although it should be in a positive way)—you just need to show how it has impacted you. 

If you decide to focus on an “identity” instead of an “interest,” then you’ve got even more options to choose from. You can choose to highlight your background, experiences, family, values, or other key features. 

Overall, your topic should be unique to you. And, again, don’t be afraid to get creative in writing this essay. Your Apply Texas essays shouldn’t read like a resume; they should be engaging while still answering the prompt. 

Apply Texas Essay Prompts – Topic C

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a university that requires students to respond to the last of the Apply Texas essays. However, you may be given the option of which Apply Texas essay prompts you’d like to respond to. So, let’s check out Essay C.

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

You may notice that this essay seems quite different from the other Apply Texas essays—it gives you a lot more freedom. So, you can really dive into the creativity of this topic. However, remember to not get too carried away and forget that, in the end, you’re still writing a college essay. The main goal, like the other Apply Texas essay prompts, is to show who you are as a person and an applicant. 

Crafting a response to Essay C

For Essay C, your process doesn’t have to be wildly different than it was for the other Apply Texas essay prompts. First, decide what you’ll write about. Start by brainstorming options if nothing comes to mind right away. 

Maybe you have a topic in mind immediately. That’s great! If you can write passionately about your ticket destination and activity, then that’s the topic for you.

Once again, get creative. You could go to a magical land, back in time, outer space, or to a remote island. The ticket and the destination don’t matter—it’s what they show about who you are. 

Most importantly, make sure to tie in your career goals or future aspirations. How will this trip impact you and your future? What experience will you have that will shape you?

Exploring Texas college’s essay requirements

When it comes to factors such as the Apply Texas essay word limit or Apply Texas essay prompts, requirements will vary by school. While the general Apply Texas application will be the same, the Apply Texas essay format will be different. Namely, each school will request different Apply Texas essay prompts. 

Let’s look at some of the essay requirements for the best colleges in Texas:

As you can see, while the Apply Texas application is uniform, the essay requirements vary greatly by school. For instance, you’ll see the Apply Texas essays for the Baylor application vs the University of Houston application are not the same. So, always double-check with your university’s admissions sites for all requirements. 

And, don’t forget, when it comes to “optional” essays, treat them as though they are required. While Texas A&M admissions requires an essay, Texas Tech does not. However, strong essays will impress both Texas Tech and Texas A&M admissions. After all, Apply Texas essays are the best way for schools to get to know you better. 

How important are the Apply Texas essays?

When it comes to the admissions process, the Apply Texas essays are extremely important. In general, college essays let applicants share a part of their personality that they haven’t highlighted elsewhere in their application. 

Additionally, most schools use a holistic admissions approach when evaluating students. That means that they review all parts of the application: GPA, essays, extracurricular activities, recommendations, and more. In fact, with more schools going test-optional, essays are an even more significant piece of your application puzzle. 

All to say: strong Apply Texas essays can make a huge difference. So, give yourself ample time to write them.

5 Tips to Make Your Apply Texas Essays Stand Out

Since the Apply Texas essays are so important in the admissions process, you’ll want to do everything you can to make yours stand out. 

5 tips to write Apply Texas essays that impress 

1. meet the requirements.

This may seem obvious, but you need to make sure that you understand the requirements for each school. Double-check the word counts and requirements for each to make sure that you hit all targets. 

2. Choose a topic carefully

Your topic is the most important part of the process. If you choose a topic that you aren’t authentically passionate about, it will show. Don’t think about what admissions wants to hear. Instead, choose a topic that you can easily write about. Then go back and fine-tune your essay to answer every aspect of the prompt. 

3. Get creative

Your Apply Texas essays should be engaging and unique. Don’t feel like you need to stick to a certain format. Set the scene and capture your audience. This is your opportunity to show who you are as well as your writing chops. So, as long as you answer each prompt fully, get as creative as you’d like!

4. Show personal growth

Your Apply Texas essays should show how you’ve evolved. Ideally, you should connect your personal growth to future aspirations in college and beyond. No matter the prompt, this is your opportunity to shine. These are college essays, so you want to show what you’ll bring to campus with your responses. 

5. Start early!

The last thing you want to do when it comes to your Apply Texas essays is wait until the last minute. Creating impactful essays will take time. You’ll brainstorm, draft, edit, and redraft. You should also leave enough time to have someone else proofread your essay for mechanical errors. Likewise, if they don’t understand the narrative, you’ll want to rework your story and message so that it makes sense to a reader. 

Apply Texas Essays & More Essay Resources from CollegeAdvisor

Writing the Apply Texas essays can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled many essay resources to help you create your best essays. While admissions requirements and essay prompts will change, the overall goal of your college essays stays the same: show admissions who you are and why you belong at that university. 

Before writing essays, you’ll also want to research specifics about the school. We have college pages that outline acceptance rates, enrollment, majors, and more to give you some quick facts on different schools in Texas. To jumpstart your research, check out the Baylor University , Texas A&M University , and University of Texas Austin pages . However, make sure to also do a deep dive into each university’s website to learn more about specific programs and campus life. 

Essay guides and other resources

Follow up by checking out our essay guides. These guides are specific to individual universities. You may even find it helpful to look at past essay guides such as our Baylor , Texas A&M , or UT Austin essay guides. Again, while prompts may change, the end goal of the essays stays the same. 

Additionally, check out the most recent guides such as this 2022-2023 Texas Christian University guide for the most up-to-date tips on making your essays stand out to TCU admissions. Looking at example essays can also help you get inspired. 

CollegeAdvisor has a wealth of resources to help you on your college journey. No matter if you’re trying to create the best Baylor application or impress Texas A&M admissions, our team can help. For expert guidance on the Apply Texas essays and more, schedule a meeting with our team here .

This essay guide was written by Sarah Kaminski. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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CREEES Professional Resources Forum

Center for Russian, East European and Eurasian Studies at The University of Texas at Austin

Grad Program: MA in Creative Writing in Russian (Moscow)

Application opens February 2019

For fiction/non-fiction writers in Russian.

MA “Creative Writing”  is:

• Practical and theoretical/historical courses, such as  Creative Writing Workshop ,  Storytelling in Different Media ,  Literary Editing , Poetics of Novel and Screenwriting ;
• Unique professors and teachers, among them famous Russian writers, screenwriters and critics –  Marina Stepnova ,  Lyudmila Ulitskaya ,  Lev Danilkin ,  Sergey Gandlevsky  and  Maya Kucherskaya  as well as prominent philologists, authors of academic and non-fiction books  Oleg Lekmanov ,  Ekaterina Lyamina  and  Alexey Vdovin ;
• Participation in open readings, discussions and  literary expeditions ,  publications in students’ projects ;
• International exchange  – lectures and workshops of the leading specialists in Creative Writing, students’ exchange in the best world universities;
•  Help and support in the process of  employment  in various publishing houses, editorials, Mass Media, high schools and universities and PR;
• Creation and participation in  cultural projects ;
• Flexible timetable  enabling students to work while studying.

Our graduates already work in the best publishing houses, universities and schools in Moscow. Their writing is published in the authoritative literary magazines. Their projects (such as prize  “_Litblog”  for the best literary blogger and first Creative Writing Internet resource in Russian  “Mnogobukv” and collections of prose) have gained much attention.

Language of instruction: Russian

You can apply to non-paid place as a foreign student in February. Looking forward to seeing you at Higher School of Economics!

More information about the programme:  https://www.hse.ru/en/ma/litmaster

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Harvard University 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Early Action: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 1

Harvard University 2024-25 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: Five essays of 100 words or fewer

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Diversity , Activity , Oddball

The following required five short answer questions invite you to reflect on and share how your life experiences and academic and extracurricular activities shaped you, how you will engage with others at Harvard, and your aspirations for the future. Each question can be answered in about 100 words.

Harvard has long recognized the importance of enrolling a diverse student body. how will the life experiences that shape who you are today enable you to contribute to harvard .

Admissions wants to know what has made you into the person you are today and how those experiences will affect the way you engage with and contribute to the Harvard community. So, tell a story about an experience that has shaped you and connect the lessons you learned to the ways in which you will contribute to diversity on campus next fall. Start by thinking about the kinds of experiences you’ve had in the communities you’ve been a part of thus far. Then, once you’ve identified the life experience(s) that have shaped you, think ahead to how those will impact your time at Harvard. Admissions wants to know what your area of influence will look like on campus—whether that be applying the leadership skills you developed in your community theater troupe to the drama productions at Farkas Hall, celebrating intersectional identities with other members of the queer Jewish community with BAGELS , or connecting and networking with your peers through Harvard Black Students Association . Whatever you write about, make sure your response to this prompt shows that you have put some serious thought into the things that have shaped you and how you will apply those lessons and experiences to your time at Harvard next fall. 

Describe a time when you strongly disagreed with someone about an idea or issue. How did you communicate or engage with this person? What did you learn from this experience?

Whether during a pregame pasta party with your teammates, a long bus ride with classmates, or your family Thanksgiving dinner, odds are you’ve disagreed with someone about an idea or an issue—and Harvard wants to hear about it. Admissions wants to know not only how you went about engaging with someone with an opposing viewpoint, but also what you took away from the experience. To make sure your response stands out from the pack, be as specific and purposeful as possible. What did you disagree on and how did you communicate? Maybe you used some deescalating tools you picked up from a friend of yours or, perhaps, you made an effort to see things from their point of view while still making a case for your perspective. If you can’t recall where you were at the time, no problem; but details are your friend here to add credibility. Whatever conversation you decide to write about, remember to address what you learned from the experience. Were you introduced to a point of view that you hadn’t considered before? Did you and your conversation partner find a middle ground or did you feel even more resolute in your viewpoint than you had before the conversation? Maybe what you took away wasn’t so much about the topic of the conversation, but the mechanics of holding a difficult conversation. Show Harvard that you can consider new ideas and engage with others about important issues.

Briefly describe any of your extracurricular activities, employment experience, travel, or family responsibilities that have shaped who you are. 

Next up is a fun twist on the classic activity essay, which asks you to expand on an extracurricular endeavor that has shaped who you are. Our advice is to focus on one or two activities that have made the biggest impact on you. Although we usually urge students to write about items that haven’t appeared elsewhere on their application, the activity essay is an exception since it specifically asks you to address an item on your resume. The trick here is to  pick something with meat! Maybe your trip to visit your extended family members in Thailand opened your eyes to how limited your world had been in your small Midwestern town. Perhaps four years of debate club have nurtured your communication skills and ability to speak up for yourself. Whatever activity you choose to write about, be sure to pick one that has been fundamental to your understanding of who you are.

How do you hope to use your Harvard education in the future? 

Admissions already knows a bit about what makes you you; now they want to know why Harvard is the obvious next step in the trajectory of your life. Take some time to meditate on what you hope your life will look like after Harvard—we’re talking ten, twenty years in the future. Once you have an idea of what you hope for that person to be like or do on an average day, invite admissions into your vision and show them how a Harvard education is a pivotal step (or three) on the ladder of success to get there. Regardless of your vision, your response should cite programs, activities, and organizations that Harvard offers. Anyone can say they hope to become a renowned doctor or an attorney for the people, but not everyone is going to do their homework to show admissions that they’ve thought through exactly how they want to get there. Of course, admissions isn’t going to hold you to your blueprint, but they do want to see that you’ve given not only your decision to apply to Harvard some serious thought, but your life post-graduation as well.

Top 3 things your roommates might like to know about you. 

With this prompt, admissions is hoping to see a different side of you, perhaps one that is less intellectual (unless that’s just who you are, in which case, rock on with your nerdy self) and a little more casual. Start by making a list. Write down everything that comes to mind. You can edit and revise later—no idea is too silly to jot down! Maybe you think your roommates should know that you just can’t not sing while in the shower (we’re talking Celine Dion, Adele, Whitney Houston) or that you make the meanest plate of rice and beans in your pressure cooker (and you love to share). Once you’ve narrowed your list down to three (3) things, see if you can weave together a narrative that gives admissions a little taste of what it would be like to hang out in the dorms with you. How do you connect with your peers? What most excites you about residential life? What are the quirks that make you you ? By the time admissions puts down your application, they should feel like your personality is jumping off the page.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Harvard asks applicants to write five (5) supplemental essays. 

Harvard wants to learn more about the students applying. Admissions is looking to glean how your life experiences have shaped you, how you will engage with other community members on campus, your aspirations for the future, and more.

Authenticity and reflection are key. You want to both ensure that you’re submitting essays that no one else could submit—meaning they contain specific details from your life or interests that aren’t easily replicable—and show that you’ve put thought and care into your response.

The Harvard supplemental essays, aside from your personal statement, are the only opportunities you have to speak to admissions in your own voice. They offer insight into what it would be like to sit down and have a conversation with you while revealing how you interact with the world around you. They also speak to your writing skills and creativity. 

Absolutely not! The admissions committee will be reading both your Common App essay and Harvard supplements, so your essays should not overlap in content at all. Of course, it’s possible you may mention a community you belong to in your personal statement and then expand on that life experience in one of your supplements, but the story should be different and reveal new information about you that admissions couldn’t have gathered from your Common App essay alone.

Each Harvard essay should be 100 words maximum.

We always recommend reviewing the prompts and writing down everything that comes to mind (no censoring yourself!). Next, comb through your ideas to see if any topics jump out at you. And if you skipped the guide above, more brainstorming ideas and advice for writing memorable Harvard supplemental essays can be found there!

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University of Idaho

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

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

University of Idaho’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

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?