Undergraduate / I love the campus, student life, and school - UCF essays [NEW]

No longer than 500 words or a total of 7000 characters for both statements.

How has your family history, culture or environment influenced who you are?

Words: 450, Characters: 2596
Why did you choose to apply to UCF?

When my family moved to South Florida in March, 2001, my parents thought of my education first. They quickly invested in pre-paid college scholarships, and took interest in which schools I would be attending. At the beginning of high school, my parents and I discussed my college options. We decided that in-state schools would be best, and University of Central Florida was a very obvious option, with its appeal in many categories. Not only is it one of the top 50 schools in the country, but it also boasts a stunning, technologically advanced campus, and an impressive opportunity for education.

As a junior, my interest in college caused me to plan a trip to go tour the UCF campus, among other campuses. As part of my tour, I drove around University of Central Florida's campus, and walked through the student union. I loved this part of the campus, and could see myself attending this school, and fitting in. The buildings seemed polished, sturdy, and noble. The atmosphere of the campus was very cozy, and everyone was exceptionally friendly.

Another key point of interest was the quality of education. After doing some research on the school, I learned many interesting things about UCF. One that caught my attention was, "UCF is second only to the University of Florida in National Merit Scholar enrollment in the state of Florida." To me, this boasts experience and dedication from the administration and professors. The quality of education at UCF is stunning, and I feel as if I would be able to accomplish many things at this school.

In addition to the UCF campus, the area around UCF was an important factor in my decision-making. The town outside of the campus seemed lively, safe, and fun, and the apartments off campus were spacious and secure. I felt at home around the town, and loved all of the shops and attractions. In addition, there were a lot of available part-time jobs, which is a very important part of being a college student. Orlando is a growing city, and I would love to live there.

Clearly, University of Central Florida is an option for me that makes sense, and feels right. I love the campus, student life, and spirit of the school, as well as the surrounding cities.

Words: 385, Characters: 2205

let me know if you think they're good, strong essays, and if i need any improvements in any areas. :D thanks

Undergraduate / Driving force in life - FSU undergrad essay [NEW]

FSU prompt: Describe how one or more of the values embodied in these concepts are reflected in your life (in 500 or less words).

Everyone has a driving force in their life. For some, its money. For others, its fame. For me, its "artes". Raised outside of Seattle, Washington, I absorbed the unique, artistic culture of the city. Thus, I have always taken painting and drawing classes, and practiced piano and guitar for many years. Art gives me a positive outlet to express myself, and creatively tell stories. In this way, "artes" is reflected in my life- through my passion for art, and my study of art.

My infatuation for artistic expression developed in my childhood, when my parents surrounded me with music, art museums and encouragement. What began as a love of coloring books has blossomed into a passion for painting, photography and sketching. My desire to create fine art influences my daily life, and has shaped me into a creative and well-rounded person. Clearly, "artes" is reflected in my life through my passion for art.

Art study has also been a large influence in my life. My perception of the world has been greatly altered by the viewing of amazing art- I notice small details, fantastic color, and unique shapes all around me. In order to expand my knowledge of art and art history, I have enrolled in several art classes in my school, in subjects such as photography, 2-D art, and drama. These courses have opened my eyes to many new types of art, and have helped me to gain an appreciation for different artistic pursuits. My hard work and dedication to the art department caused the school to recognize me, and present me with a 9th grade drama award and 11th grade Advanced Photography award. Without a doubt, art study reflects "artes" in my life.

Attending Florida State University would give me an opportunity to develop my art skills and love for art, as I would like to pursue art as an occupation in my life. The beautiful campus, and artistic environment would serve to stimulate and illuminate me. "Artes" is an extremely important aspect of my life. It inspires me to view the world and my relationships with others in a unique way, and gives meaning to my life.

Word count: 362

i'd also appreciate any comments on the essay.. do you think its good, strong, well-written? thanks!

Undergraduate / 'Varied cultures' - State of Maine, UNI of Florida Essay [2]

When friends discover that I go to the state of Maine every summer, the response I usually get is, "Maine? What's in Maine?" After I explain to them that I visit my grandparents there each year, the idea of spending 2 weeks in a cabin, cut off from the world, without Internet access or a TV, repulses them. But this is what I love to do every summer, and have been doing so since I was an infant. Spending time in Maine each year has opened my eyes to different types of lifestyles, made me a more tolerant person, and increased my appreciation of art and culture.

Every summer that I travel to Maine is a unique experience. For 2 weeks, my family and I get to enjoy clear air, rolling hills, and sleepy towns. This short vacation from crowded South Florida always reminds me that most of the world does not have the same luxuries and priorities that many of us have in Broward County. Maine, and the North East in general, is focused greatly on building a "green" society, and place a lot of importance of being environmentally friendly. South Florida, for the most part, is more interested in material possessions and status. Visiting Maine gives me an opportunity to rejuvenate my "green side", and nurture my soul.

My entire life, I have been surrounded by many varied cultures. Growing up outside of Seattle, Washington, I was immersed in a large Asian and White community. Now that I live in Florida, I am largely involved in Spanish culture. And every year when I travel to Maine, I experience living in a French community. Being involved in these types of varied cultures has made me into a very tolerant person. I love to learn about different ethnicities, and I appreciate diversity. I am non-judgmental and open to new ideas and customs.

Maine's beautiful landscapes and seascapes cause thousands of artists to flock to its coasts each summer. The large artistic community that surrounds me when I travel to Maine serves to inspire and illuminate me. I enjoy contributing to this community by creating my own renditions of Maine's beauty. My appreciation for art and culture has been increased greatly by visiting Maine each summer. I have formed an understanding and admiration of beauty and culture, and this has made me into a better artist, and has changed my perception of the world- I notice small details, fantastic color, and unique shapes all around me.

My understanding of diversity, my tolerance, and my increased appreciation of art and culture will allow me to positively contribute to the University of Florida campus, and will greatly affect my college experience. These traits, along with my ability to be non-judgmental, will allow me to interact with many different types of people, and gain new knowledge from them. -- UNFINISHED

i would also appreciate any opinions you have on the essay (is it good, bad, needs a new idea, etc)