Undergraduate / 'stash of brainpower and creativity' - U of I essay- extracurricular activity [4]

In an essay of 300 words or less, choose one extracurricular activity, work experience, or community service project from the list you provided on the application and explain why you initially chose it, why you continued with it, and how you benefited from it.

During my early years in elementary school, my mom helped me discover my concealed stash of brainpower and creativity. Without her guidance I would have never delved into the world of reading or learned the intricate relationships between numbers. Her dedication inspired me to share with younger students the same "boost" that she had used to stimulate my interest in learning. I decided to reach out to students by volunteering in Brain Boosters, a local tutoring program that provides students with homework assistance and enrichment activities.

My first day in the program, I doubted my ability to tutor as I frantically racked my brain for effective ways of explaining to my buddy how to convert measurements for a cupcake recipe. I expected her to glare or criticize my attempt to tutor, and was grateful when she made no such signs of disapproval. I didn't allow my nervousness to discourage me from continuing the program. Tutoring became easier as I gained more experience explaining homework and bonded with the students. To make the sessions more relaxing and fun, I inquired my buddies about their day at school. I absorbed their summaries of a new intriguing book, sympathized with complaints about the tyrant teacher, or advised on how to approach Dad about a lost calculator. I realized that my role as a tutor wasn't just to assist students with homework, but also to provide encouragement and optimism.

My greatest benefits from being a volunteer were improving my communication skills, pushing myself out of my comfort zone, and forming new friendships. As an Illini student I hope to continue interacting with younger students by participating in peer mentoring groups such as the America Reads and Counts program with other Illini students who share my interest in helping students discover their potential.

Undergraduate / Ideas for How did you get caught? [11]

I'm having trouble thinking of what to write for the UChicago prompt. The only literal experience of being caught that comes to mind is when I ran away from my preschool group during a trip in the park so that I could continue playing. I thought I could connect that to the present by saying that the adventurer in me then remains as I travel abroad. Sound good?

Undergraduate / Common App- extracurricular activity (150 words) [5]

An extracurricular activity that I greatly enjoyed was volunteering in Brain Boosters, a local tutoring program that provides students with homework assistance and enrichment activities. I was glad to have the opportunity to interact with younger students and help them reach their potential. To make tutoring sessions more relaxing and fun, I inquired my buddies about their day at school and then absorbed their summaries of a new intriguing book, sympathized with complaints about the tyrant teacher, or advised on how to approach Dad about a lost calculator. One of my students often relayed to me her loneliness and hardships at home and I would offer her advice. I realized that my role as a tutor wasn't just to assist students with homework, but also to provide encouragement and optimism. By tutoring younger students, I improved my communication skills, pushed myself out of my comfort zone, and formed new friendships.

Undergraduate / 'the best educational setting' - Emory University Supplement [5]

Hi I'm in the process of writing the Emory supplement essay. This is what I have so far.
Prompt:1. Many students decide to apply to Emory University based on our size, location, reputation, and yes, the weather. Besides these valid reasons as a possible college choice, why is Emory University a particularly good match for you?

There is a 250 word limit.

I didn't consider Emory as a prospective school until I was narrowing down my list of colleges for the QuestBridge scholarship. At first I was reluctant to research the school because of its distant location from home, but eventually my curiosity coerced me into taking a peek. As I perused through reviews of the school on Unigo and scanned the opportunities available for students, I realized that Emory has the best educational setting that will help me develop into a well-rounded individual.

Emory's combination of a core academic curriculum and dedicated professors comprise the appropriate environment for developing new interests. While some students complain about Emory's general requirements, I find these classes to be essential for finalizing my decision for an intended major. The core classes will also allow me to broaden my knowledge as I study disciplines that differ in ideas and concentrations. Working with professors who have a passion for their field and care enough about their students to learn their names will allow me to receive the support I need to understand each discipline and to develop critical thinking skills in each one.

Emory's diverse student body draws me to the school because it will complete my college experience. Exposure to various backgrounds in a small community will contribute to my development into a well-rounded individual; my encounters with different beliefs and values will allow me to reflect on and modify my own and understand other cultures.

I hope to be an Emory Eagle next year.