32
Colleges
4
Q&As
11
AP/IBs
80
Essays
4
Awards
10
Activities
Hello! I am a prospective neuroscience major at Princeton, and I'm interested in the intersections between neuroscience, race, and gender!
Regarding Test-Optional vs. Sending My SAT Score: I applied test-optional to Harvard, Columbia, UPenn, Princeton, Stanford, and Northwestern and I sent my score to all the rest of the schools I applied to (except for UCs because they were test-blind for my admission year)
Hello! I am a prospective neuroscience major at Princeton, and I'm interested in the intersections between neuroscience, race, and gender!
32
Colleges
4
Q&As
11
AP/IBs
80
Essays
4
Awards
10
Activities
Race
Black or African American
Gender
Male
School Type
Private
Legacy
No
Low income
No
First generation
No
International
No
Recruited Athlete
No
GPA (W)
4.47
GPA (UW)
3.96
GPA Scale
4
SAT
1420
# AP/IB Exams
11
Personal Statement
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.
I have as much stage presence as a four-year-old singing the ABCs in front of his parents. But as a child, enthralled by the talents of the young performers on my television screen, I consumed all the
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Princeton
As a research institution that also prides itself on its liberal arts curriculum, Princeton allows students to explore areas across the humanities and the arts, the natural sciences, and the social sciences. What academic areas most pique your curiosity, and how do the programs offered at Princeton suit your particular interests?
As a future psychiatrist, I strive to understand human behavior, disorders, and decision-making, and I am excited to participate in laboratory research that involves discovering and improving the neur
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Briefly elaborate on an activity, organization, work experience, or hobby that has been particularly meaningful to you.
Exploring visual art gives me a space in which I don’t have to worry about gaining validation from people around me. I create art just for the sake of creating, and it's brought my life some much-need
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At Princeton, we value diverse perspectives and the ability to have respectful dialogue about difficult issues. Share a time when you had a conversation with a person or a group of people about a difficult topic. What insight did you gain, and how would you incorporate that knowledge into your thinking in the future?
In the short time I’ve been a youth leader, I’ve learned that my role is to make sure that each kid feels like they have a voice and that every lesson we teach allows kids of all identities to feel mo
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Princeton has a longstanding commitment to service and civic engagement. Tell us how your story intersects (or will intersect) with these ideals.
In 2019, I traveled to Honduras through Frontline Missions Inc. Our primary focus was to build relationships with the Tolupan people of Flower Mountain and attempt to improve various aspects of their
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What is a new skill you would like to learn in college?
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What brings you joy?
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What song represents the soundtrack of your life at this moment?
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UPenn
Considering the specific undergraduate school you have selected, how will you explore your academic and intellectual interests at the University of Pennsylvania? For students applying to the coordinated dual-degree and specialized programs, please answer these questions in regard to your single-degree school choice; your interest in the coordinated dual-degree or specialized program may be addressed through the program-specific essay. (300-450 words)
I am thoroughly impressed by the University of Pennsylvania’s emphasis on undergraduate research opportunities and by the school’s use of research to serve a broader community. Because I am interested
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At Penn, learning and growth happen outside of the classroom, too. How will you explore the community at Penn? Consider how this community will help shape your perspective and identity, and how your identity and perspective will help shape this community. (150-200 words)
Occasionally, at my Church’s youth group meetings, we’ll encounter a more controversial topic that we have to be more cautious about presenting. One day, our adult leaders discussed how the Church vie
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SECTION (no word count)
I’ve wanted to become a psychiatrist for a long time, but as I complete my undergraduate studies, I want to be careful about how I approach the study of the mind. The University of Pennsylvania was on
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NYU
Why NYU
I am thoroughly impressed by NYU’s emphasis on using research to promote the development of knowledge and scientific progress. Because I am interested in understanding human behavior, perception, lear
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UMich
Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it.
I consider myself to be Cameroonian-American, and I am very proud of my heritage. Growing up in a collectivist culture, I’ve always felt such a strong connection to my family and a duty to honor and r
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Why that College or School?
I am thoroughly impressed by the University of Michigan’s emphasis on undergraduate research opportunities and by the school’s use of research to serve a broader community. Because I am interested in
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USC
What is something about yourself that is essential to understanding you?
I am Cameroonian-American, and I am proud of my heritage. Growing up in a collectivist culture, I’ve always felt such a strong connection to my family and a duty to honor and respect them. My culture
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Academic Interest
I am thoroughly impressed not only by USC’s emphasis on research but also by the school’s use of research to improve human lives. Because I am interested in understanding human behavior, disorders, an
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DLAS Essay
I would talk about the unrealistic amount of pressure many teens today put on themselves to achieve high levels of academic success. I believe in the importance of pursuing our passions instead of try
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UNC Chapel Hill
Describe an aspect of your identity (for example, your religion, culture, race, sexual or gender identity, affinity group, etc.). How has this aspect of your identity shaped your life experiences thus far?
I am Cameroonian-American, and I am proud of my heritage. Growing up in a collectivist culture, I’ve always felt such a strong connection to my family and a duty to honor and respect them. My culture
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Describe a peer you see as a community builder. What actions has that peer taken? How has their work made a difference in your life?
My best friend is an artist, and I am inspired by how she dedicates her life to using her art for positivity. Whenever she notices that someone around her is upset, she can create beautiful embroidery
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Honors Carolina Essay: Please submit a short essay that describes your academic interests and the ways you believe Honors Carolina can help you pursue them.
As a future psychiatrist, I strive to understand human behavior, disorders, and decision-making, and I am excited to participate in laboratory research that involves discovering and improving the neur
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Boston University
What about being a student at Boston University most excites you? (250 word maximum)
I am thoroughly impressed not only by Boston University’s emphasis on research but also by the school’s use of research to spark innovation. Because I am interested in understanding human behavior, di
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Trustee Scholars Essay Response
I currently serve as a core leader for my youth group. I plan lectures and discussions, and my team makes sure that the lessons are engaging enough for our kids to stay focused. Our youth group is a p
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Georgia Tech
Why do you want to study your chosen major specifically at Georgia Tech?
I believe that I will be able to thrive in the neuroscience program because of how my core values align with Georgia Tech’s. I am thoroughly impressed not only by Tech’s emphasis on excellence, but al
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UPitt
If you could change anything in the world, what would it be? Explain why and how you would change it.
I would change the unrealistic amount of pressure many teens today put on themselves to achieve high levels of academic success. Pursuing our passions is more important than striving to attain standar
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UCSB
Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time.
In the short time I've been a youth leader, I've learned that my role is to make sure that each kid feels like they have a voice and that every lesson we teach allows kids of all identities to feel mo
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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?
I belong to the LGBTQ+ community, but I chose not to express my true self in my school's environment because I was afraid of displeasing people within our Christian community. The pressure of being a
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Georgetown
Indicate any special talents or skills you possess:
As my pen hits the page and I complete that first stroke of ink, all of my stress vanishes. Art is not a hobby that I merely enjoy, but a necessary component of my lifestyle. Exploring visual art allo
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Briefly discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved:
During the summer of 2020, I created a 60-page coloring book which I then sold and used the profits to create care packages full of toiletries, flood relief items, and other necessities to support the
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As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief essay, either personal or creative, which you feel best describes you:
I have as much stage presence as a four-year-old singing the ABCs in front of his parents. But as a child, enthralled by the talents of the young performers on my television screen, I consumed all the
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What does it mean to you to be educated? How might Georgetown College help you achieve this aim?
I am thoroughly impressed by Georgetown University’s emphasis on undergraduate research opportunities and by the school’s use of research to serve a broader community. Because I am interested in under
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Additional Information
I am Cameroonian-American, and I am proud of my heritage. Growing up in a collectivist culture, I’ve always felt such a strong connection to my family and a duty to honor and respect them. My culture
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Tufts
Why Tufts?
I am thoroughly impressed by Tufts' emphasis on using research to push boundaries. Because I am interested in understanding human behavior, disorders, and other aspects of cognitive neuroscience, I am
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How have the environments or experiences of your upbringing – your family, home, neighborhood, or community – shaped the person you are today?
I am Cameroonian-American, and I am proud of my heritage. Growing up in a collectivist culture, I’ve always felt such a strong connection to my family and a duty to honor and respect them. My culture
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UGA
The college admissions process can create anxiety Essay
I had always been introverted and slightly intimidated by immense crowds, but I wondered what it would be like to be surrounded by people with no prior knowledge of my identity. During 2019, I attende
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Brown
Brown’s Open Curriculum allows students to explore broadly while also diving deeply into their academic pursuits. Tell us about any academic interests that excite you, and how you might use the Open Curriculum to pursue them while also embracing topics with which you are unfamiliar. (200-250 words)
As a future psychiatrist, I strive to understand human behavior, disorders, and decision-making, and I am excited to participate in laboratory research that involves discovering and improving the neur
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Brown’s culture fosters a community in which students challenge the ideas of others and have their ideas challenged in return, promoting a deeper and clearer understanding of the complex issues confronting society. This active engagement in dialogue is as present outside the classroom as it is in academic spaces. Tell us about a time you were challenged by a perspective that differed from your own. How did you respond? (200-250 words)
I lead my youth group by reviewing lectures sent to us by the youth ministry organization, LifeTeen, and I make sure that they are engaging enough for our members to stay focused. Occasionally, we’ll
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Brown students care deeply about their work and the world around them. Students find contentment, satisfaction, and meaning in daily interactions and major discoveries. Whether big or small, mundane or spectacular, tell us about something that brings you joy. (200-250 words)
As my pen hits the page and I complete that first stroke of ink, all of my stress vanishes. Art is not a hobby that I merely enjoy, but a necessary component of my lifestyle. Exploring visual art al
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Emory
What academic areas are you interested in exploring in college?
Because I am interested in understanding human behavior, disorders, memory, and decision-making, I am excited to participate in laboratory research conducted by the Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology
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Which book, character, song, monologue, or piece of work (fiction or nonfiction) seems made for you? Why?
When I first heard the song “Soul Makossa” by Manu Dibango, I had almost no connection to my Cameroonian culture, and I was comfortable solely being American. But as a child, I became interested in ex
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Boston College
Each year at University Convocation, the incoming class engages in reflective dialogue around a common text. What book would you recommend for your class to read and explore together – and why?
I would recommend Frankenstein, the 1818 book by Mary Shelley. Discussing her novel would be an excellent way for the freshman class to learn a lesson about decision-making, a skill that is valuable f
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Brandeis
The Brandeis community is a diverse group of critical thinkers defined by their ability to dive deeper into their learning by questioning, analyzing, evaluating, creating, critiquing and seeking other perspectives. Share an example of how you have used your own critical thinking skills on a specific subject, project, idea or interest. (250 words max.)
I lead my youth group by reviewing lectures sent to us by the youth ministry organization, LifeTeen, and I make sure that they are engaging enough for our members to stay focused. Occasionally, we’ll
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Swarthmore College
Swarthmore students’ worldviews are often forged by their prior experiences and exposure to ideas and values. Our students are often mentored, supported, and developed by their immediate context—in their neighborhoods, communities of faith, families, and classrooms. Reflect on what elements of your home, school, or community have shaped you or positively impacted you. How have you grown or changed because of the influence of your community?
I belong to the LGBTQ+ community, but I chose not to express my true self in my school’s environment because I was afraid of displeasing people within our Christian community. The pressure of being a
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Villanova
St. Augustine states that well-being is “not concerned with myself alone, but with my neighbor’s good as well.” How have you advocated for equity and justice in your communities?
I lead my youth group by reviewing lectures sent to us by the youth ministry organization, LifeTeen, and my team makes sure that they are engaging enough for our kids to stay focused. Occasionally, we
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In addition, the Admission Committee would like to know why you want to call Villanova your new home and become part of our community?
I am thoroughly impressed by Villanova’s emphasis on using research to foster collaboration. Because I am interested in understanding human behavior and cognition, I am excited to participate in labor
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The College of New Jersey
Why are you interested in The College of Wooster? (250 words)
I am thoroughly impressed not only by Wooster’s emphasis on research, but also by the school’s emphasis on the development of both communication and project-management skills. Because I am interested
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Yale
Yale’s extensive course offerings and vibrant conversations beyond the classroom encourage students to follow their developing intellectual interests wherever they lead. Tell us about your engagement with a topic or idea that excites you. Why are you drawn to it? (250)
As my pen hits the page and I complete that first stroke of ink, all of my stress vanishes. Art is not a hobby that I merely enjoy, but a necessary component of my lifestyle. Exploring visual art allo
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Yale students embrace the concept of “and” rather than “or,” pursuing arts and sciences, tradition and innovation, defined goals and surprising detours. What is an example of an “and” that you embrace? (200 ch.)
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Reflect on your engagement with a community to which you belong. How do you feel you have contributed to this community? (250)
I lead my youth group by reviewing lectures sent to us by the youth ministry organization, LifeTeen, and I make sure that they are engaging enough for our members to stay focused. Occasionally, we’ll
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You are teaching a new Yale course. What is it called? (200 ch.)
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Yale’s residential colleges regularly host conversations with guests representing a wide range of experiences and accomplishments. What person, past or present, would you invite to speak? What would you ask them to discuss? (200 ch.)
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What inspires you? (200 ch.)
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What is it about Yale that has led you to apply? (125)
I’ve always been introverted and slightly intimidated by immense crowds, but as I’ve become more comfortable with the intricacies of my identity, I’ve become more excited to not only express myself, b
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Students at Yale have plenty of time to explore their academic interests before committing to one or more major fields of study. Many students either modify their original academic direction or change their minds entirely. As of this moment, what academic areas seem to fit your interests or goals most comfortably? Please indicate up to three from the list provided. (Cognitive Science, Philosophy, East Asian Lang/Lit) Why do these areas appeal to you? (125)
As a future psychiatrist, I strive to understand human behavior, disorders, and decision-making, and I am excited to participate in laboratory research that involves discovering and improving the neur
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Columbia
List the titles of the required readings from academic courses that you enjoyed most during secondary/high school.
Blind Boone’s Pianola Blues; The Tables Turned; The Picture of Dorian Gray; The Great Gatsby; Death, Be Not Proud; The Soul selects her own Society; The Meaning of July Fourth for the Negro; The Souls
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List the titles of the books, essays, poetry, short stories or plays you read outside of academic courses that you enjoyed most during secondary/high school.
Perfume: The Story of a Murderer, Gone Girl, Reeling for the Empire, The One’s We’re Meant to Find, Symptoms of Being Human, Gifts Differing: Understanding Personality Type, Steal Like an Artist, The
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We’re interested in learning about some of the ways that you explore your interests. List some resources and outlets that you enjoy, including but not limited to websites, publications, journals, podcasts, social media accounts, lectures, museums, movies, music, or other content with which you regularly engage.
@taggedbyjana, @hansmith.art, @miss.cookie.art, @dinasaurus.art, Oraarts, Stephane Lopes, @thegraytergood, @bethzairalopez, @liquidverve, @diberkato, Ian Barnard, The Zach Sang Show, Alvin Zhou, Buzzf
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A hallmark of the Columbia experience is being able to learn and live in a community with a wide range of perspectives. How do you or would you learn from and contribute to diverse, collaborative communities?
Occasionally, at my Church’s youth group meetings, we’ll encounter a more controversial topic that we have to be more cautious about presenting. One day, our adult leaders discussed how the Church vie
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Why are you interested in attending Columbia University? We encourage you to consider the aspect(s) that you find unique and compelling about Columbia.
Because I am dedicated to developing my knowledge in a complex way, I believe that Columbia’s Core Curriculum would allow me to learn more about gender, sexuality, women, race, philosophy, cognitive s
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For applicants to Columbia College, please tell us what from your current and past experiences (either academic or personal) attracts you specifically to the areas of study that you previously noted in the application.
Exploring visual art allows me to have a space in which I don’t have to worry about gaining validation from people around me. I create art just for the sake of creating, and it's brought my life some
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Additional Information
During the summer of 2020, I created a 60-page coloring book which I then sold and used the profits to create care packages full of toiletries, flood relief items, and other necessities to support the
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Harvard
Your intellectual life may extend beyond the academic requirements of your particular school. Please use the space below to list additional intellectual activities that you have not mentioned or detailed elsewhere in your application. These could include, but are not limited to, supervised or self-directed projects not done as school work, training experiences, online courses not run by your school, or summer academic or research programs not described elsewhere.
Every year, my Church (St. Matthew Catholic Church) selects one artist to illustrate a portrait of Matthew the Apostle since is the patron Saint of our Church community. I was chosen by my Priest this
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Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences.
During the summer of 2020, I created a 60-page coloring book which I then sold and used the profits to create care packages full of toiletries, flood relief items, and other necessities to support the
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Additional (Optional) Essay
I currently serve as a core leader for my youth group. I plan lectures and discussions, and my team makes sure that the lessons are engaging enough for our kids to stay focused. Our youth group is a p
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Stanford
What is the most significant challenge that society faces today? (50)
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How did you spend your last two summers? (50)
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What historical moment or event do you wish you could have witnessed? (50)
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Briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities, a job you hold, or responsibilities you have for your family. (50)
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Name one thing you are looking forward to experiencing at Stanford. (50)
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The Stanford community is deeply curious and driven to learn in and out of the classroom. Reflect on an idea or experience that makes you genuinely excited about learning. (250)
When I was younger, instead of going on playdates with other children my age, I went with my dad to his office and experienced his daily life as an accountant. Seeing my dad in a professional setting
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Virtually all of Stanford’s undergraduates live on campus. Write a note to your future roommate that reveals something about you or that will help your roommate — and us — know you better. (250)
Extra, Trident, Mentos, Stride Orbit, Wrigley’s, Dentyne, Five. Dear Gum, Dear Gum You’re nutritious, you’re delicious. Your flavor slapped my tongue And it was love at first taste. Since your
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Tell us about something that is meaningful to you and why. (250)
As my pen hits the page and I complete that first stroke of ink, all of my stress vanishes. Art is not a hobby that I merely enjoy, but a necessary component of my lifestyle. Exploring visual art allo
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UCLA
What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?
As my pen hits the page and I complete that first stroke of ink, all of my stress starts to vanish. Art is not a hobby that I merely enjoy but a necessary component of my lifestyle. Exploring visual
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Berkeley
What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?
During the summer of 2020, I created a 60-page coloring book which I then sold and used the profits to create care packages full of toiletries, flood relief items, and other necessities to support the
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Northwestern
Why us?
When I was younger, instead of going on playdates with children my age, I went with my dad to his office and experienced his daily life as an accountant. Seeing him in a professional setting from a yo
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Pomona College
College is about more than your major. It’s about learning through classes, conversations, experiences and finding connections across multiple topics. Tell us about a time recently when you became excited to learn more about something: a time when your curiosity pushed you to eagerly pursue an idea or topic further through research or discussion.
I’ve wanted to become a psychiatrist for a long time, but as I complete my undergraduate studies, I want to be careful about how I approach the study of the mind. I’ve recently fallen in love with the
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Marvel or DC? Pepsi or Coke? Instagram or TikTok? What’s your favorite “this or that” (you are not restricted to these three examples), and which side do you choose?
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What’s your favorite way to eat a potato?
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You’re relaxing on a Friday night. Suddenly, your favorite song pops into your head. What is it?
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Advancing diversity and inclusion (D&I) can be hard work and a continuous learning process. Tell us about how you have either recently championed D&I or how you plan to maintain a deep commitment to D&I in college.
As a leader for my youth group at Church, I review lectures sent to us by the youth ministry organization, LifeTeen, and my team makes sure that they are engaging enough for our kids to stay focused.
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According to our Board of Trustees, “Institutions such as Pomona College should prepare their graduates to lead lives of creative leadership and exemplary service.” How do you hope to use the knowledge you will gain in college to impact something greater than yourself, such as your family, neighborhood, community, city or society?
One of the most important aspects of my identity comes from the fact that I am Cameroonian-American. I take pride in the food we eat, the dances we dance, the length at which we are able to discuss se
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Do you have any additional info to share?
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What would you do differently if you were to redo the application cycle?
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Who should read over your essays?
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How did you decide where to apply early?
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How did you build your college list?
My first 22 schools were mostly safeties and targets as well as my state school, and most of these I applied to early action so that I could have at least one college acceptance in my pocket before my
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