Undergraduate / Going to concerts- Common App short essay [5]

"Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experience in the space below (1000 character maximum)"

As the lights of the historic Granada Theatre dim, the cheers of the crowd grow frenzied as we push closer to the stage. We're expectant, we're exhilarated, we're ready. The curtains raise and from the very first drum beat, I am in a state of rapture; taking my eyes from the stage would be impossible. The only thing that matters is the sound of the singer's scratchy, natural voice, the guitar's piercing squeal, the drums abrasive pulse. Although I enjoy recorded songs, I prefer the real, unaltered sound of live music, complete with its imperfections. Every note the band plays runs through me and the rhythms clear my mind. I am completely relaxed; the worries that generally plague me throughout the day are gone. At a loud, chaotic concert, I am most at peace. The music has transformed me. I am always driven and focused on my future, but at this concert, I let go and live in the moment.

Undergraduate / Animal Shelter Experience- Common app short essay [4]

"Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences in the space below (1000 character maximum)"

I run through the huge open field, panting and trying to keep pace with Bruiser, the old hound dog. With each sniff I am pulled in a different direction as he finds something new to track. On his walk he is full of life, but as we make our way to the backroom of the Second Chance SPCA, a change comes over him. He becomes sad and anxious, his cage no more a home to him then a small town is to a girl yearning for the big city. Some dogs adjust to the life of a shelter; others do not. These are the ones I am most drawn to - the dejected, lonely ones, who yearn for a family to give them freedom. I love these animals for the simple fact that they are the ones that need the most love. When I scratch that special spot behind their ears, I see their eyes light up. I know that in that instant, they have forgotten their unhappiness and have been given hope.

Any comments or suggestions will be greatly appreciated.