“There may be personal information that you want considered as part of your admissions application. Write an essay describing that information. You might include exceptional hardships, challenges, or opportunities that have shaped or impacted your abilities or academic credentials, personal responsibilities, exceptional achievements or talents, educational goals, or ways in which you might contribute to an institution committed to creating a diverse learning environment.”
Basic outline:
Born in Philippines and lived there for 4 years, grew up in near poverty, parents spent all they had to get U.S. citizenship so our family could pursue a better life. Became subject to severe bullying in middle school, was excluded from my former friend group, leading to feelings of worthlessness and self doubt. Didn’t think anything mattered, so I put little effort into my school work. Joined the marching band in high school, made some new friends, allowing me to gradually learn to open up to others again. Band taught me the value of coordinating as a team, and that the results achieved directly correlate with the amount of effort one puts in. Something my band director always used to say was “The best kind of discipline is self-discipline” and that has stuck with me ever since. I recently developed an interest in the earth sciences, and plan to pursue a BS in Geology. I’m also very passionate about the environment, so I plan to become an environmental geologists in order to limit the effect of pollution on the planet and develop safer waste disposal methods. I am aware that the path ahead will not be an easy one, but I am determined to put in all that I have to make my goals a reality.
That’s the gist of it, though it doesn’t have to follow that exact outline. It can be embellished with details to make it more compelling, but it should be believable.
