Undergraduate / "mathematics affinity" - FSU essay on values Vires, Artes, Mores [2]

I am trying to respond to all 3 elements rather than simply address one

The personal statement is as vital to the application process as the form, transcript, and references. I hope to provide insights into my personality and character.

The Florida State University "Vires, Artes, Mores," challenges students to have strength, skill, and character. Though the motto expresses a fine sentiment I thought long and hard about the embodiment of these values in my life. Values should be more than simply a notion or theory, providing the basis for how we live our life. Serving as a mirror to the individual they reflect the character within. I once heard character defined as the things we do when there is no one present to notice.

Strength to me is taking a stand for what I believe in against those who disagree; though a point of view may be unpopular that should never be the reason to stop its pursuit. I am tenacious and enjoy a vigorous discussion about issues important to me: nothing great was ever accomplished without effort and discussion. Some people may support the liberal or the conservative side politically. While having my own opinion, I believe that an effective discussion acknowledges that one side can never be entirely right or entirely wrong. True strength is often found in letting another take the lead, letting another person dominate an issue or win a discussion where you would prevail takes far more strength. You are using personal strength to empower another.

Many would say that I have a skill for mathematics and a love of solving problems. Since I was a small child numbers have always fascinated me. Growing up the love of mathematics evolved. A mathematics affinity is not something we are born with as some believe. Like many worthwhile pursuits it is a skill that requires cultivation and effort; but I have always found the commitment satisfying. I have always been raised believing that each one of us has a gift, a skill. It may not be readily evident but it is there nonetheless. My stepfather, a teacher has always maintained that each person is gifted but some gifts lie waiting to be discovered. Throughout my life I have seen that this was true.

Character is often the most visible value; while it may take some effort to determine its depth the lack is painfully evident. Those with character are persons we want to emulate not because of wealth or fame. Their true quality is in the generosity of the time they willingly give to others while expecting nothing in return. There is no camera tracking their movements, no throng of adoring fans simply their outstretched hand lifting someone from the mud and a quiet reassuring voice saying "let me help you." These people work all day or spend hours in class only to hurry home, grab a bite and rush out to lend a hand whenever it is needed in a time of crisis. Thank you for this opportunity to respond to the importance of these values.

Undergraduate / My parents' divorce; U Florida - MEANINGFUL CHALLENGE [3]

I'm trying to respond to the University of Florida request about a meaningful event and how might affect my experience and contribution the the University. I hope this is moving in the right direction.

The request to cite a meaningful event is always challenging. Prior to May two thousand and six my response might have been my parents divorce. The early hours of May the seventh that all changed.

I was awakened by my mother with word that she was taking my stepfather to the hospital. He was not feeling well and she was concerned, but not worried, they drove to the hospital rather than call "911". A family friend came to stay with me while I tried unsuccessfully to sleep, at five-forty-three the phone rang. My stepfather a strong man of fifty four years of age had suffered a stroke. The right side of his body was unresponsive and the doctors were still assessing him. Mom remained calm as she told me and I felt less frightened when she handed my stepfather the telephone and he reassured me.

In the days that followed the doctors gave us the prognosis, with aggressive therapy he might walk in six months using a cane. Keith listened intently and then assured the doctors it would not take that long. Those words would sound like denial coming from anyone but my stepfather. He refused to accept defeat and neither would I.

He was promptly transferred to the most aggressive treatment center in our area where treatment began immediately; he had to learn to regain use of his right side. Starting with a walker and then a special cane he moved one agonizing step after another. When others stopped to catch their breath Keith always insisted on doing more. Those first days set the tone for his recovery, when he was given exercises and asked to complete three repetitions I found him doing four. Each day we prepared to visit him, I never treated him as a sick person, he would never want that. We talked about my day, how classes were going, and the normal things of our day to day life. Though a struggle we tried to walk most evenings if only down the hall. Mom and I would often surprise him with a treat, a favorite food or the "Jamocha" shakes he was so fond of.

Keith is a school teacher and this was almost a painful for his classes as for Mom and I. One of the teachers brought by an envelope filled with cards, his students and their friends had made them. After I left work one Saturday Mom took me to visit, Keith and I read every card while Mom tried to get some dinner. When I saw his response the idea struck me that he needed work in addition to therapy. Mom called the principal of his school and asked for papers for him to grade, at first she thought we were kidding but I assured her we were not. On the last day of school my stepfather arrived before any of the students and most of the staff. The line of people to see him extended down the hallway to the main office.

Undergraduate / Divorce, man, woman, family - University of Central Florida statement. [3]

I'm trying to frame a good essay but advisers are a bit vague with what universities are seeking.

The personal statement is as vital to the application process as the form, transcript and references. I will provide insights into my personality and character while introducing myself to you.

Divorce is seldom only about a man and a woman; families are often effected, most frequently the children. At an early age, I became accustomed to trips back and forth between my parents' homes. While many children of divorced parents find themselves messengers, my parents made a genuine effort to work with each other. Although most daily dealings centered on my mother, my father remained involved to the best of his ability. The irregular hours of his job made planned visits a challenge, but my mother was always willing to accommodate. While both parents shared my childhood years, by the time I was an adolescent I found myself going from two parents to four. Both of my parents had remarried, and my father's marriage brought with it three new siblings whereas previously I had none. Never having shared my father with anyone before, I found that suddenly his attention and affections were divided five separate ways. Coping with these changes in my life has not only made me stronger and more resourceful but made me cognizant of the fact that the world does not revolve around me. I believe these abilities provide strength as I deal with people at work and in daily life, whether classmates; instructors, co-workers and/or customers.

Several qualities that I possess will enable me to contribute to the University of Central Florida community. My true strengths lie in my industrious nature, sense of integrity, reliability, and my value of the volunteer ethic. I began working two months after my fourteenth birthday, right after hurricane Wilma. I assisted my local Publix during the recovery efforts. While doing this, the manager took notice and subsequently offered me a job. I have continued working for them ever since. My sense of integrity stems from the examples set by my parents; I have a strong sense of right and wrong. Rules and laws should apply to everyone, not simply a few who lack power or privilege; we have the right to demand integrity from those we choose to lead us. Being unreliable is not only inconsiderate, but also disrespectful. Throughout my life, I have always believed that if I am expected to be somewhere on time I should be. Consequently, I miss very little school, have good punctuality at work, and (unless there is a great emergency) I never miss my duty to volunteer. In short I live up to my commitments. Valuing the volunteer ethic takes not only time and patience but also a positive attitude. Part of that attitude is the ability to work well with others and respond well to the unexpected. Whenever new projects arise in my community I am one of the first people called because of these attributes.

Thank you for this opportunity to provide a glimpse into how I deal with challenges while expressing some of what is important to me. There is far more than can be covered here, and I look forward to meeting the admissions staff for further discussion.