Undergraduate / "pace movies and science fiction novels" - Stanford intellectual vitality essay [7]

PROMPT - Stanford's students are known widely to possess a sense of intellectual vitality. Tell us about an idea or experience you have had that you find intellectually engaging

With a family of computer engineers, information technology has always been intrigued me. As I grew up I was amazed to see how small things like two connecting parts, rolling a ball were based on complex theories of science and the calculator, the games I used to play as a kid, almost everything was based on intricate programming. Each day feels like the first day of finding and learning something new.

For me, robots were the stuff of space movies and science fiction novels until my dad introduced me to the world of robotics when I was 13, and since then my fascination has evolved into a passion. When other kids spent their vacations playing Xboxes and PlayStations, I indulged myself in programming. From a robot that follows a straight line to one that climbs up poles, programming has been the most integral part of every robot I have made. The robot design is futile without perfect programming. I started programming with the basic LEGO ROBOLAB software and now I've gained proficiency in using various programming languages, including C++ and Java. But this interest of mine was not just limited to programming robot, but also to website design and making new software. With the help of various sites on the internet I learnt the VB programming, which further enhanced my ability to program. The part of programming that fascinated me the most was how it combined all the parts of science and mathematics in some way or the other. Further researches led me to use the mathematical operations like logic, arithmetic, trigonometry and many others to create various programs, some for even controlling robots to do virtually anything

This interest of mine has really challenged me to begin thinking more logically. Whenever I see new software, website or a robot, neurons of my mind which have already been programmed, automatically start the work to decode the program behind that.

Undergraduate / Aids Society- University of Michigan short essay [2]

Sometimes doing things for others makes people happy. I learned this while I was working with an AIDS society and an orphanage. Both of these societies work for the welfare of unfortunate children, improving how they feel and ensuring that they remain a part of and involved in the world. My job was to teach the kids and spend time with them so they wouldn't feel dejected. During every visit, I used to see a bright smile on all the children's faces, a smile that conveyed me that they were feeling secure and happy that someone cared for them. I involved myself completely with the kids, switching off my cellphone and forgetting every other concern in my life. Deeply engrossed in the smiles on their little faces, I used to lose all track of time, sometimes for as long as eight hours.

Going to movies and on picnics with these kids actually gave me more satisfaction than I got from spending time with my friends.
I also talk to many people regarding the prevention of HIV and AIDS, so their children won't have to suffer because of them in the future. With the help of many of the AIDS society's members, I have encouraged people to be involved in our society and to help with this noble cause.

Prompt for the essay: 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. (Approximately 250 words)