So, I'm planning to apply to the University of California next year, but I'm not sure what to expect for the supplement essays. I've done some research, but couldn’t find specifics. Does anyone know what the prompts are usually like? Looking for some pointers to prep ahead.
The University of California (UC) system uses Personal Insight Questions for their supplemental essays. For the 2024-2025 application cycle, there are eight prompts, and you will select four to answer. Each response is limited to 350 words. Here are the prompts:
1. Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.
2. Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem-solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.
3. What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?
4. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.
5. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?
6. Describe your favorite academic subject and explain how it has influenced you.
7. What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?
8. Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?
Remember to be authentic and personal in your responses. Don’t feel compelled to impress with grand accomplishments—sometimes quiet moments of personal growth or overcoming adversity can be the most compelling stories to tell. Be sure to illuminate different aspects of your life or personality with each prompt you choose, this will give the admissions officers a well-rounded view of who you are.
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