UC Prompt 8 Sample Essays?

Hello everyone! I'm having some trouble getting started with UC Prompt 8 and thought it might be helpful to see some sample essays. Does anyone know where I can find some good examples or have any tips on tackling this prompt? Any help is appreciated!

Hello! UC Prompt 8 can definitely be a challenging one. To help you get started, here's an overview of the prompt: "Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?"

When approaching this prompt, focus on identifying a unique aspect(s) of your personality, experiences, or skills that make you stand out. Try to be specific and choose something you feel hasn't been addressed in other parts of your application. Remember, the goal is to showcase your individuality and give the admissions officers a reason to remember your application.

Here are three strategies for tackling this prompt:

1. Share a personal story: Sharing a personal narrative that highlights the attribute you want to emphasize can create a strong connection with the reader. It could be about a hobby, an experience, or a struggle you've overcome.

For example, you might write about how an unusual hobby, like slacklining, has taught you the importance of balance and resilience, and how it has shaped your approach to life challenges.

2. Highlight your background: If your cultural, socioeconomic, or familial background offers a unique perspective, this can be an effective approach.

For example, you could discuss how growing up in a military family has made you adaptable, resourceful, and open to new experiences, which has allowed you to thrive in diverse environments and created a strong sense of duty and purpose.

3. Emphasize your skills or talents: If you have a specific skill or talent that distinguishes you from other applicants, discuss it in the context of why it sets you apart and how it has influenced your personal growth.

For example, if you're an exceptionally talented artist, you could describe how your passion for creating art has helped you develop a deep understanding of the world, made you more empathetic, and sharpened your eye for detail.

Remember that these examples are just meant to illustrate potential approaches and should not be copied. Your essay should be an original reflection of your own experiences and thoughts. You can search for examples online, but keep in mind that sites like CollegeVine offer essay guides that can be very helpful in providing insight on how to approach prompts like this (https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-university-of-california-essays).

Best of luck with your essay! Let your unique personality and experiences shine through, and you'll create a compelling response.