Common Application: Personal Essay (4 versions)
Describe a problem you've solved or a problem you'd like to solve. It can be an intellectual challenge, a research query, an ethical dilemma-anything that is of personal importance, no matter the scale.
590-word version:
...although I do understand the significance of evaluating artworks in terms of style, technique, and the emotions they render to the viewer...I have come to regard that approach to be rather confining...
UW—Madison: Additional Statement
Tell us why you decided to apply to the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In addition, share with us the academic, extracurricular, or research opportunities you would take advantage of as a student. If applicable, provide details of any circumstance that could have had an impact on your academic performance and/or extracurricular involvement.
666-word version:
...although I do understand the significance of evaluating artworks in terms of style, technique, and the emotions they render to the viewer...I have come to regard that approach to be rather confining in comprehensively appreciating the true genius of any artwork and that of its respective artist...
UC—Berkeley: Personal Statement 2
Tell us about a personal quality, talent, accomplishment, contribution or experience that is important to you. What about this quality or accomplishment makes you proud, and how does it relate to the person you are?
475-word version:
Although I do understand the significance of evaluating artworks in terms of style, technique, and the emotions they render to the viewer...I have come to regard that approach to be rather confining...
U of Illinois—Urbana Champaign: Explain your interest in the major you selected. Describe an experience related to that area of study, what first introduced you to this field, and/or your future career goals. Limit your response to 300-400 words.
400-word version:
Although I do understand the significance of evaluating artworks in terms of style, technique, and the emotions they render to the viewer, I have come to regard that approach to be rather confining...