ucla essay prompts

18 UCLA Essays That Worked (and Why) for 2024

Do you want to write strong essays that'll help get you into UCLA?

In this article, you'll read and learn from 18 essays written by students who got recently accepted into UCLA and see how they did it.

If you're trying to get into the University of California, Los Angeles, these essays are a valuable resource and give you a peek into UCLA admissions.

Whether you're a student or parent of an applicant, you'll see what to do—and what not to do—when writing your UC essays.

How important are the UCLA essays?

And as of 2022, the UC system no longer uses your SAT and ACT scores to decide whether or not to admit students.

With no more test scores, that means your UC essays are even more important for your application. Besides your grades (GPA) and coursework, your essays are the most influential factor for your UC admissions.

Plus, UCLA is the most applied to school in the world, with well over 100,000 applicants each year. The University of California-Los Angeles acceptance rate is lower each year, which makes your essays even more important.

Since your UC essays matter so much, it's important to get them right.

What are the UC Personal Insight Question Prompts for 2022-23?

It's a mistake to think of the UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) as typical essays you'd write for a class.

Rather, the PIQs are a set of eight open-ended questions asked by the UC app. You must choose exactly four questions to respond to, and each response should be no more than 350 words.

Let's go over the UC Personal Insight Question prompts:

• Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.
• Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.
• What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?
• Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.
• Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?
• Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.
• What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?
• Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

It can be helpful to see how other students responded to the UC Personal Insight Questions.

And since UCLA is one of the hardest UC's to get into, along with UC Berkeley , students that get accepted tend to write outstanding essay responses to the PIQs.

18 UCLA Personal Insight Question Examples

Here are the 18 best UCLA accepted essays that worked written by accepted students for each Personal Insight Question prompt #1-8.

• UCLA Example Essay #1
• UCLA Example Essay #2
• UCLA Example Essay #3: Violin
• UCLA Example Essay #4

UCLA Example Essay #5: Team Player

• UCLA Example Essay #6: Flute
• UCLA Example Essay #7: Optimism
• UCLA Example Essay #8
• UCLA Example Essay #9
• UCLA Example Essay #10
• UCLA Example Essay #11
• UCLA Example Essay #12

UCLA Example Essay #13: Computer Science

Ucla example essay #14: korean big toes.

• UCLA Example Essay #15

UCLA Example Essay #16: LGBT

• UCLA Example Essay #17

UCLA Example Essay #18: Being Short

Ucla example essay #1: orchestra leadership.

UC PIQ #1: Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time. (350 words max)

In my freshman year of high school, I had enrolled in the String Orchestra Advanced Class which was mixed in with the Beginning class. I was the only person with experience, seven years in the Violin at the time, while most of the students in the class were beginners. I got class elected, then re-elected as President my Freshman and Sophomore years, and was First Violin, then First Viola Chair.

My first year consisted of myself and the instructor teaching the basics of each instrument. Learning a new instrument is frustrating, and there were times where older students in the class would get frustrated and unhappy that a Freshman knew more than they did.

As a leader I had to make sure I did not keep a separation between myself and my classmates. Therefore, my Sophomore year, I changed my instrument to the Viola.

By showing my classmates that I too was a beginner, and that I too had to learn because I had a new instrument -inspired the class to learn as well. My classmates no longer saw me as someone who told people to practice and not give up, yet did not have to practice or struggle themselves, but instead, as someone who was there practicing, and struggling along with them.

The Orchestra program at my school started my Freshman year as an experimental class, but the school ended the class after my Sophomore year. Though unfortunate, in the two years of its existence, my classmates went from being novices, to performers, where in the last year of the program, we performed many times for school events and finally in an orchestra conference in my Sophomore year, where judges praised our Orchestra's technique and cohesiveness.

After the class got cut, many of my classmates continued to pursue music independently, or in the District Orchestra. It is a wonderful feeling for me to see my former classmates -to this day- performing, and even teaching others, knowing that I was there when their journeys in music first began, and I look forward to seeing their musical pursuits in the future.

Why This Essay Works:

• Tells a Story: Gives context and explains how you got this leadership position. By explaining a backstory, it reveals your motivations and what drives you.
• Shows Takeaways and Lessons Learned: It's not enough to just talk about your achievements. Admissions officers are more interested in why they matter to you, and how you had an impact on others.

What They Might Improve:

• Fix Capitalization: It's not necessary to capitalize improper nouns like "violin", "viola", and "orchestra".
• Sentence Flow: Make sure your sentences aren't too long and don't have unnecessary breaks, which can interrupt the flow.

UCLA Example Essay #2: Volunteer Leadership

My group and I spent a total of seven hours preparing five hundred bagged lunches for the extensive homeless community at Oakland. Out of all the obstacles that could have halted our progress, rain was the last thing on our minds. We were lucky enough to distribute three hundred lunches before the rain began to relentlessly pour down on us. There were a few hours left of daylight before we would be able to eat Iftar for Ramadan, so, an overwhelming majority of our group wanted to call it a day. However, there was still a large number of unsheltered and hungry homeless people throughout the city, and I could not bear to let all that food go to waste. So, I raced to one of our nearest vans, grabbed a bullhorn, and yelled to gather the attention of as many people as possible. I instructed them to form lines in front of our eleven vans in order to take everybody to the nearest homeless shelters with the promise of food and entertainment. We went to six other heavily concentrated areas to do the same thing, and within just five hours, nearly five hundred homeless individuals were transported.

This event is one of the dozens of community service projects I’ve performed in my role as vice-president of the youth faction of the Sudanese Association of Northern California (SANC). This Oakland food drive has left me with a sense of clarity of what it takes to get a project, event, or any other endeavor accomplished. The food drive was obviously a success, but what made this particularly memorable is the email the president of SANC sent me the following day: “You have a keen ability to synthesize and communicate anything quickly and effectively.” I realized the explicit connection between my forensics (speech and debate) career and my community service: the power that I carry in my voice can motivate others to do good. I have tried to apply this insight into each new endeavor since.

• Specific with Numbers: Use exact numbers whenever you can to create authenticity and make it realistic. In this essay, saying "three hundred" lunches makes things concrete.
• Connects to Academic Interests: Show how your past leadership achievements relate to what you want to do in college.
• Stronger Conclusion: Make sure your conclusion isn't vague and has a concrete takeaway. Don't just use words like "this insight". Rather, rephrase that insight or draw a new idea from it.
• Sentence Structure: Having too long of sentences is a common mistake students make. Instead, splitting up complex sentences can make it easier to read.

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UCLA Example Essay #3: Violin Creative Side

UC PIQ #2: Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side. (350 words max)

I express my creative side by playing the violin and other musical instruments. Ever since I was a younger child, music had always been a part of my life. The first instrument I remember playing is the piano when I was four years old. My school had a music program, so I went and learned how to read music and play the Recorder. Though it was a simple instrument, it was to prepare us students for the more complex instruments that we could choose to play after completing the Recorder lessons.

I took this class all of first grade, and in second grade I was ready to choose the instrument I wanted to specialize in. I chose the Violin, and now -ten years later- I am still playing it. Throughout the years I have learned to play other instruments as well, such as the Piano, Trumpet, Viola, and more. During that time I have also been able to play those instruments in different styles of music.

From second to seventh grade, I played the Violin and sung in my elementary school district's Mariachi and my middle school's Mariachi even when I did not know how to speak Spanish. I have been playing the Violin at my church's choir almost every Sunday since Seventh grade. I played the Violin and Viola in my high school's Orchestra class in Freshman and Sophomore year, and since my Junior year I have played the trumpet in my school's Jazz Band and Trumpet Choir.

My siblings have also been inspired to be creative musically, and together we perform at our church and other places, and music has become an important part in their lives as well.

Throughout my life I have been able to express my love for music in many different ways. Whether through playing with a group, doing a solo in front of an audience, composing my own music, or teaching my younger siblings how to read and play music the way I was taught many years ago, music has always been a large way that I could express my creative side.

• Clearly Answers Prompt: For UC essays, being straightforward is not a bad thing. This essay starts off by clearly answering the prompt, before elaborating further.
• Fix Capitalization: It's not necessary to capitalize improper nouns like "freshman" and "sophomore". An easy fix is to only capitalize proper nouns, like names of people and places.
• Explain What's Meaningful: Admissions officers want to know more than just "what you did," but also why it was meaningful to you. Try to focus on the impact of your achievements more than just what you did.

UCLA Example Essay #4: Improvised Comedy Creative Side

I was brought into this world with an overactive imagination and an absence of siblings. My abundance of boredom and lack of playmates was solved by creating multiple characters, drawing them, and pretending to be them. When I joined theater my freshman year, I quickly fell in love because it brought me back to that childhood innocence of carelessly being someone else It was an opportunity to evaluate how I could incorporate my personality, experiences, and charisma into a character and to turn my visual concepts into a reality through doing makeup.

I was also introduced to improvised comedy. where I presented my witty and quirky side. On the other hand, working with a cast and crew was something I was unaccustomed to. but I soon saw myself becoming inspired by the surrounding creativity of others. Whether we were doing a dramatic or comedic play, we worked together to evoke an emotional response from the audience. It’s an honor to see people laugh and cry during our performances because I've connected with hundreds of people by putting my heart on a stage. In contrast, painting has been a private indulgence. Every feeling and thought trapped inside becomes free on that canvas into a beautiful visual creation. Like my mood, my paintings aren't uniform and consistent; they range from iridescent beaches to scattered splotches, yet every stroke, color. and mistake had a reason.

As my only patron, my mom couldn't always afford painting supplies, so occasionally I had to improvise with tools like spoons, paper towels, and erasers. Regardless of the tools I was using, my paintings were reflection of myself. The progression of my work is an exhibit of my struggles, success, and how I became who I am today. Painting is not about the finished product; it's about the journey and the lessons I've learned to get there. My creativity is not limited to the arts, but is embedded my appearance, mindset, and career path in solving mental health issues. Creativity, to me, is putting bits and pieces of myself into doing what I love.

• Strong First Sentence: Starting off with interesting ideas is the best way to get the reader hooked. It doesn't need to be complicated, but find your most interesting idea and start there.
• Connects Multiple Extracurriculars: Finding multiple examples in your life to explain your answer can make your essay stronger. Rather than focusing on just one activity, how do your activites relate with a common theme?
• Great Conclusion: A strong conclusion is often one that expands on your ideas or connects to something more universal. Try restating your main idea and add a twist or expand on it.
• Make Each Paragraph Distinct: Each paragraph should have one central idea or topic. It's better to split up your essay into many paragraphs because it makes it easier for the reader and better organized.

UC PIQ #3: What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time? (350 words max)

My greatest talent would be relating to and inspiring others. Throughout my time in school I have demonstrated that talent by becoming a leader where I was trusted by my teachers and peers. It began in 5th grade when I was voted to become Student Council for my class, where my peers knew that I related well with them and that I would do my best to use my position to fix their issues.

In middle school, I became the Knowledge Bowl team Captain. There was a new coach, so the program was small, about five students. There were many students who wanted to join the team but felt that they were not "smart enough" to join. I recognized this and encouraged those students to join and they succeeded. By the end of the year, our team was 3rd in the district overall statistically standing, our highest ranking in a while.

In high school I joined JROTC as a Freshman, and I became a Platoon Sergeant my Junior year. My job for the semester was to teach and motivate cadets in the program. Some cadets did not do well with authority, and felt attacked when other class leaders would be assertive. As a leader I took a different approach, and related to my cadets. My platoon was constantly noted as being a well-rounded platoon by our instructors, and I received the Non-Commisioned Officer Leadership Award.

In Academic League, motivation was key to our team's success. Sometimes personal problems would affect a member of the team, so I showed them I could relate to their struggles and still believe in their ability to help the team. In times when we would be losing in a match, I would inspire the team to keep pushing on, and to remain positive. That year our team placed 5th in the district -again a highest ranking in a while- and I was voted as "Most Inspirational" by the team.

Throughout the years, relating to and inspiring others has been a skill that has allowed me to make great connections with so many people.

• Uses Multiple Examples: Backing up your answer with various examples from your life makes your case stronger.
• Unique Take: Rather than thinking of a skill in the literal sense, this author uses a more abstract skill. Sharing your unique perspective is key to having interesting ideas.
• Show Why It Matters: In addition to explaining your greatest skill or talent, you should tell why it is meaningful. What are the takeaways and how will you use this skill going forward in college?

UCLA Example Essay #6: Flute Greatest Talent

Just when we think we figured things out, the universe throws us a curveball. So, we have to improvise. The universe is funny like that. Sometimes it just has a way of making sure we wind up exactly where we belong.

When I first started playing flute, I probably looked like a pufferfish choking on a clump of wasabi, but that didn't matter. Blasting deep breaths into my flute, I blew voraciously as I tried to produce a B-flat; but all I could muster was a raspy whistle.

6 years later, I was filled with pride knowing that I had worked hard enough to be selected as the concert soloist for the Youth Orchestra of Bucks County. My moment had arrived; I stand center-stage and begin Chaminade's Concertino Op. 107. Recognizing the minor scales and arpeggios, my fingers glide through the measures with absolute certainty; and with each successive measure, my breathing, tone, and articulation seemed to increasingly synchronize. Before long, the piece came to an end. Holding the D-natural farmada as long I could, I let the note fade into submission and lowered my flute. Taking a bow, I reveled in the magnitude of my hard work.

As I grew older, it became evident that I would need orthodontics and jaw reduction surgeries. With my face full of rubber and metal, I couldn't form a tight enough valve to sustain notes. I was officially back to square one. The following months were brutal, I had to put away Tchaikovsky and go back to the basics; but my effort was genuine and I gradually regained my ability to play.

Today, I consider playing flute my greatest skill. Not because I can play complex scales or win competitions, but, instead, because through the horrors of braces, learning how to double-tongue, and impossibly fast measures, I never gave up. Playing flute had crafted in me the relentless determination which I've exhibited over the past 8 years. I may not know what curveballs life will pitch to me next, but I have confidence knowing I will persevere regardless of the circumstances.

• Strong Hook: Use your best idea at the start to immediately make the reader interested. First impressions matter, and by having a compelling first paragraph, the tone of your essay is immediately better.
• Specific in Naming Things: Say the names of groups, places, and other things whenever you can. Being specific whenever possible makes you seem more relatable and makes your essay more interesting.

UCLA Example Essay #7: Optimism Greatest Skill

Life can be an overwhelming obstacle course, but my ability to get over any bump with a smile on my face has been my greatest strength. Maintaining an optimistic outlook has introduced me to new opportunities, made me a better leader, and helped me get through everyday life. Although my determination to get back up was built by a couple scrapes and falls. I learned about the impact of a positive attitude on others through my experience on the tennis team.

The motivation and bond my team had because of the encouragement and support from our captains has influenced my approach to interacting with others. For instance, while working with my peers, I always praise them for the effort that they put in and patiently help them. When applying this to class projects and theater productions, I saw an improvement on our performance and our accomplishments felt more satisfying and meaningful. My positive attitude is also influential during my job at a convalescent home. As an activities assistant, my objective is to get residents to participate in activities and to make them fun.

At times, it’s difficult to convince residents that a macaroni necklace is worth getting out of bed for, but I am always that friendly face that cheers them on and picks them up. Knowing that my happiness is brightening someone else's day is extremely valuable and is the fuel to my enthusiasm.

Preserving my optimism is not always easy; however, my excitement for the future retains my drive to overcome any challenge. Every opportunity given to me is taken advantage of, and if something doesn't go as planned. I am confident another door will open. Even though I enjoy focusing on the bright side of life, I'm aware that some people feel like they cant overcome their challenges alone. I recognized that I can be a hand to help people up, someone to believe in them, and a friend to conquer obstacles with. Using this positive influence is the very reason why I am looking forward to a career in psychology.

• Shows Impact of Your Skill: Whenever possible, try to show how your skill/talent has impacted others. Why is your skill important? And how will you use it going forward in life?
• Uses Humor: Having small moments of natural humor, when appropriate, makes for a more enjoyable essay. Even a small remark like "it’s difficult to convince residents that a macaroni necklace is worth getting out of bed for" is powerful.
• Recognizes Challenges: Nobody is perfect, and even with your greatest skill or talent there are likely still shortcomings. Recognizing your challenges is important to humanize yourself and shows self-awareness.

UCLA Example Essay #8: Significant Educational Opportunity

UC PIQ #4: Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced. (350 words max)

I was going to University of Southern California for three weeks, and that was all I could think about as the school year came to a close. After finding out that I had been accepted into the Bovard Scholars program, along with one of my best friends, I could not wait for the upcoming summer. As July 16th neared, I became more and more anxious,as I did not know what to expect, but I was looking forward to this new opportunity.

The program had just been launched this year and 49 of around 500 applicants were accepted. Over the course of three weeks, the 48 other people from all over the country would be my new friends. During my time there, I would be assigned a coach who would help with the college process, whether it be working on the college application as a group or having one-on-one sessions to work on personal statements. Outside of working on college applications and essays, we had guest speakers from admissions offices, student panels where we could ask questions, career panels, and workplace visits. We also had many presentations on financial aid, fields of major, jobs, and interviews which, most of it, I did not know beforehand.

Along with all this help, we also dormed at one of the residence halls, which allowed us to experience what college life might be like. I was amazed by the diversity of people that were attending the program, and I was shocked to find out that my roommate from New York was Egyptian. We even had Resident Assistants who planned evening activities for us to further stimulate college life. However, they were not just our Resident Assistants; as we grew closer we were able to gather information from them about college.

As the program came to its end, I did not want it to stop. I had such an incredible experience and learned so much about college. I knew that the program will never truly end, though, as our coaches will continue to work with us until Spring when we are accepted into colleges.

• Specific in Achievements: Being specific and saying "49 of around 500 applicants were accepted" creates credibility. It also helps admissions officers have context about your achievements and be able to infer how significant they really were.
• Stronger First Sentence: Try starting your essay with ideas, rather than retelling events. Starting off with interesting ideas helps hook your reader, and you can later support those ideas with your experiences and achievements.
• Focus on Meaning: Emphasize what your takeaways were from this educational opportunity or barrier. Admissions officers are looking for what you learned, how it affected others, and how you'll use those lessons moving forward.

UCLA Example Essay #9: Working at Health Clinic

I worked in a health clinic in the impoverished village of Amara in Sudan this summer, expecting to be assigned general administrative duties during my internship. However, those expectations were tossed out the window within the first week. I consider myself a pretty squeamish person, so the thought of blood oozing from any injury disgusts me in ways that I cannot describe in words. So naturally, I was shocked when I didn’t flinch or faint as I held the retractors of a ravaged knee during surgery. I can’t say that I confronted the daunting tasks I was given with complete confidence, but I learned from the experiences nonetheless. At times, I would question the challenging orders given to me by the faculty, but I later realized that it was due to the lack of qualified doctors and nurses at the village.

I observed eleven surgeries, ranging from liver disease to a gruesome foot infection. The clinic worked under severe pressure, as basic resources and equipment were scarce, which ended badly for some patients. There was one particular patient who did not survive a disastrous bus crash due to the unavailability of ambulances. He was laying on the floor in agonizing pain for a lingering six hours. As the viscous blood stained the white cloth that covered him when he was brought to the clinic, I felt a surge of sorrow, anger, and helplessness. It was difficult for me to come to grips with the reality that some things cannot be undone. The emotions I felt that day slowly faded, but never completely receded. I left this internship satisfied with the invaluable knowledge I obtained, but I still feel like I needed to do more. I live a relatively privileged life, and don’t have to spend each day worrying about a measly injury that could end my life. At the time, even though I thought I was worked too hard for a high school student, I now know I didn't do enough. I’m eager to return to the clinic soon, and have hopes of gaining more experience and knowledge.

• Emphasizes the Impact: After talking about what opportunity you had or what barrier you overcame, focusing on the impact of that experience is what matters. Describing your emotions and lessons learned makes the significance of those events more clear.
• Strong Hook: Focus on finding your best idea and using that as your first sentence. Often, starting off with a story or retelling what you did can come later and isn't as important.

UCLA Example Essay #10: Most Significant Challenge

UC PIQ #5: Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement? (350 words max)

Education has always been important in my household, but never paramount. We were always taught to put familial needs first—even before our own. My parents always emphasized the lesson that selfishness leads to bitterness and loneliness. That value is why six new members were added to my family when my father’s brother died two years ago. I did what was expected and shifted my focus from school to helping my kin.

I remember feeling a mosaic of emotions—apprehension, prudence, and displacement—as I greeted them at the airport. The five-hour-long ride back home was awkward and somber, and the complete silence said so much more than words could. We were all just afraid of what the future had in store for us. My step aunt, my two older cousins and the three younger ones were all compassionate, loving people. Yet, I couldn't seem to shed this foreboding feeling the first time we all entered our house. Every passing week made our financial situation more tenuous. So, my brother and I volunteered to help our dad at his small pharmaceutical wholesale business after he laid off two employees. We worked after school three days a week and would return home around 8:30.

That year of juggling school with my new obligations at home and my father’s business was emotionally and physically wrenching. However, I don't pity myself and I wouldn't go back to change anything because I learned so much about my character in that year. I realized that my parent’s belief in selflessness had shaped me into a more capable person because I was able to sacrifice time from socializing and classes to contribute, in some way, to my family. And even though I was concerned that I would hurt my academic performance, I stuck to my promises. That inexplicable sense of uneasiness I felt at the airport was caused by anxiety in anticipating the new demands that could potentially exhaust me. Thankfully, the challenges prepared me for the academic rigor for my junior year, my senior year, and hopefully, for university.

• Vulnerable and Authentic: Talking about personal stories can be difficult, but often your vulnerable experiences have a lot of meaning. Being vulnerable also makes you more personable and relatable.
• Explains Realizations: Rather than focusing on what happened, focus on the impact of it and why it's meaningful. How will these past experiences and academic challenges affect you going forward?
• Stronger Conclusion: Try to connect your ending back to the beginning while expanding on it or connecting it to a universal idea. Alternatively, leave your conclusion more open ended.

UCLA Example Essay #11: Educational Challenge

Growing up, I tackled the challenge of school without much guidance from anyone other than my older sister, who is one grade higher. When I was at the young age of just five, my parents divorced and my sister and I were left with our dad, who we did not see often. Because our time with him was limited to driving us to school and home and dinner, we could not ask him for much help with homework or projects. Most of the time, we did the work ourselves or asked our uncle and aunt for help when they came on Saturdays. By the time we reached middle school, I was in more advanced classes, and although my dad had received an Associate’s Degree, he did not take advanced classes like I did, so he was unable to provide much help. My dad only took math up to geometry, and his English was not as fluent as mine, preventing him from providing much help.

Once I enrolled in high school, I was able to get help from teachers, programs, and even my sister. With this newfound help, I overcame the struggle of not knowing what to do in school and life, and I learned that help is always there, but I just needed to ask. Throughout my time in high school, I became more motivated than I was before to do the best I can and overcome anything that comes my way. I was able to do this with help from others, and I will continue to strive for greatness, overcoming any obstacles. Without the help of others, I would not have had the success that I have had in school. My good grades are a testament to the help that I have received in order for me to be where I am now. Although I can say that I have overcome this challenge, there is still one last hurdle, which is to graduate from high school, attend college, and apply everything I have learned to the real world.

• Honesty: Authenticity is most important for your essays. By revealing personal details such as your family life and struggles, you can bring admissions officers into your world.
• Sense of Gratitude: Showing a sense of appreciation and self-awareness makes you immediately more likeable. Nobody succeeds alone, so how did others in your life help you overcome difficulties?
• Provide Clarification: Some parts could be given more context, such as "why is your dad not as fluent in English?". You could use this as an opportunity to talk about your cultural background and create a more clear picture of yourself for the reader.

UCLA Example Essay #12: Self-Improvement Challenge

The saying "you can be your own worst enemy" was the embodiment of the time I hit lowest point. Finishing my 22-hour days, I expected to lay down in bed close my eyes, and smile: thinking about all my accomplishments. Instead, I was sleep deprived, rapidly losing and gaining weight, and unhappy.

As a result, I stopped being able to focus and my grades began to fall. I lost motivation and the only reason I did anything was because of my obsession with completion. In this vulnerable state, I would tell myself I was useless and shy away from taking opportunities. I started to question if could get out of the hole I dug. Ironically, I have always been an optimist. I thought about the many things I wanted to do and I wouldn't be able to do any of them from a hospital bed.

Seeing the bright light ahead of me, I moved forward to a journey of self-improvement. First, I isolated myself from things that were affecting my happiness through finding a place where I could peacefully think about why I was enduring so much pain, regularly eat, and get some sleep. When I came back from my retreat, I continued my routine which improved my health and performance in school. The greatest outcome was my realization that I was compensating for my lack of self-esteem, I've been trying to get validation from my parents and peers by trying to be perfect, but when my friends left me and my parents didn't notice my efforts I overworked myself.

It was hard to stop searching for approval, yet the support of close friends and acknowledging that I'm doing everything I'm capable of, revealed to me what its like to love yourself. From then on, I determined my self worth, no one else. Now that I found my own drive and am confident, I don't have to beg for friends. struggle to maintain grades, skip meals, or lose sleep. Presently, I can say I am no longer my worst enemy: we're like friends that get closer every day.

• Vulnerability: Showing your shortcomings and difficulties is important to reveal how you've grown and changed. Revealing your perspective and emotions also shows that you have self-awareness.
• Provide More Explanation: Don't assume that the reader will remember everything about you. For essays like this, give more context. Answer questions that will come up in the reader's mind, like "Why did you have 22-hour days?".

UC PIQ #6: Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom. (350 words max)

An academic subject that inspires me is Computer Science. Computers have fascinated me ever since a young age. I used my first computer when I was 4 years old- the Apple Macintosh Performa. I began learning about how computers worked in first grade, where I had my own Windows XP computer. I did not know what I was doing when I clicked through the thousands of files that made the computer run, but it was fascinating, and almost seemed like magic. I knew that a career with computers had to be in my future.

My fascination with computers took a new meaning in freshman year, when I decided to learn how to program. I did not know where to start, so I just typed in the search browser, "how to start programming". That day, I started with the Processing Language. It was a simple language to learn, but it built the foundation for my furthered interest in the computer programming aspect of Computer Science. After a couple months of using Processing, I learned HTML/CSS and JavaScript. These languages would allow me to program a wider range of applications. Soon enough, I became bilingual in the languages of computers. As time went on throughout my freshman and sophomore years I exposed myself to more languages like SQL, Batch Scripting, and in junior year, Java.

In my junior year I took AP Computer Science A, and finally after all the years of loving computers, I was able to take Computer Science as a class where I learned the Java language. I also furthered my interest in Computer Science by integrating it with the Engineering club on campus, using the Arduino and Raspberry Pi.

This year I am in Computer Integrated Manufacturing, where I can implement my knowledge of Computer Programming into Engineering, through the use of Corel Draw with the Laser Cutter Printer and AutoDesk Inventor and OpenGL C++ Code with the CAD 3-D Printing machine.

Computer Science has always been a part of my life inside and outside of the classroom, and I seek to continue pursuing it as my major.

• Connects Interests to Extracurriculars: Showing how your activities relate to your passions reveals your motivations and what drives you. By connecting to extracurriculars, it also creates a more complete picture of your application.
• Specific In Naming Things: Whenever you are able to, being specific is better than being vague. By naming programming languages and classes, the story becomes more compelling.
• Explain Why These Things Interest You: What is the root aspect of your interests that intrigue you? Try explaining how you feel when doing these activities and what motivates you. Admissions officers want to know how these interests developed, and more importantly, why they developed.

UC PIQ #7: What have you done to make your school or your community a better place? (350 words max)

I am "Korean big toes", "a water panda in disguise", and "Mr. Sweatface" - these are the nicknames I happily accepted over the years. My life was a buoyant bubble, full of gratification, funny nicknames, and simple pleasures; but that changed when I was confronted with the inhumane conditions of the LGBT centers around my town.

Stepping into the stone-house building, a few things immediately caught my attention. The rooms were small, full of broken furniture, smelled of mold, and had poor lighting; moreover, there was no privacy and extremely limited resources. It was obvious that the facility didn't have the funds to sustain itself, let alone help anyone trying to assimilate back into society. My heart ached as I realized the advantages I had been taking for granted; the idealistic mirage of reality I previously held, was now replaced by an overwhelming truth: Life isn't fair. Everyone in that facility had been criminalized for their sexuality, and I was going to do something about it!

Over the next few weeks, I brainstormed ideas and eventually decided on creating a blog where I would share the stories of anyone who was willing to speak up for change. The clickety-clack of my keyboard filled the common rooms of LGBT centers around my city. I slowly-but-surely interviewed the residents of these homes, recording stories of inequality and discrimination. As I uploaded each story to my blog, I felt a sense of accomplishment knowing that I was breaking down barriers and fulfilling my passions. Furthermore, reading the comments flooding my inbox, I realized that although the LGBT centers in my area still remain underfunded, I had made an impact on individuals through my blog and did something for a community I genuinely cared about. It was more than I could have ever hoped for.

In my quest to create change, I forged a new nickname for myself -- "advocate"; except, unlike the titles I was bestowed as a kid, this nickname represented my creativity, ingenuity, and passion, and for those reasons, it is more precious than anyone will ever know.

• Vivid Descriptions: Painting a picture can make your stories immediately more interesting. By using descriptive language and word choice, your stories have more life to them.
• Conclusion That Connects to Beginning: Try connecting your ending back to the beginning, but with a new perspective or take. By bringing your essay full circle, it creates a sense of cohesiveness.
• Name Things Specifically: Rather than being general and saying "LGBT centers", the author could name one specifically. Since not everyone may be faimilar with the concept of "LGBT centers", it helps make your essay more concrete and easier to interpret.

UCLA Example Essay #15: Empowering Others Through Peer Tutoring

I never thought that I would tutor other people after school, but that was what I did my junior year and now in my senior year. During my freshman and sophomore years, I was the one being tutored by upperclassmen who had taken my classes before. Receiving help from others inspired me to become a tutor my junior year so I could give back and share the opportunity that I had. At first, I was not sure if I would be up to the task, as I did not feel confident in my teaching abilities in various subjects. As time went on, however, I became at ease and comfortable tutoring anyone the more I tutored along with my peers.

Every day from Monday through Thursday, I went to library as much as I could to help tutor with others from 3 to 4 o’clock, and it slowly became a part of my daily schedule. To begin with, I was not the greatest teacher, but as I helped more and more, I gradually became better at it due to teaching the same concepts repeatedly. Not only was I helping the person I was tutoring understand the subject, but I also was becoming better at the subject by teaching it. Teaching a subject allowed me to relearn concepts and ideas that I had forgotten, as well as studying for a subject if I was tutoring a classmate.

Motivated by wanting to help other students, I was able to be at tutoring most days, and this led to me receiving a tutoring award at my school’s California Scholarship Federation banquet at the end of the year. It was a surprise to me as I was not expecting to be honored. To me, the best award was the satisfaction of helping others understand how to do homework questions and them being grateful for the help. Although this year tutoring is not being held in the library yet, I joined another club that tutors after school for the time being so I can continue helping others and spread my knowledge.

• Shows Their Realizations: Realizations and new understanding are how people change. That's why its important to look for what lessons you learned, and what you took away from your activities.
• Explain Why: Try to predict what questions will arise in the reader's mind, and answer those questions. For this essay, one question that is unanswered is "Why did you never think you would tutor other people?".

UC PIQ #8: Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California? (350 words max)

This was the night. Clenching my fists, I called my dad over. Maybe it was the adrenaline coursing through my veins or maybe just suspense, but time seemed to freeze as anxiety washed over my consciousness. A million doubts flooded my mind as I dreaded what would come next. The pitter-patter of his feet hitting the tile floor brought me back to reality. My dad had always loved and supported me, I just had to trust that things would be alright.

In a quivering voice, my hands shaking, I explained to my dad that I was gay. After a brief moment of silence, my dad said ten words that completely changed my life: "I raised you completely wrong, get out of my house". I was devastated, but I wasn't surprised. This was the same person physically forced pork down my throat when I told him I wanted to become a vegetarian; who would hit me and my mom if either of us voiced dissenting opinions; and the same person who would come home drunk and threaten to kill us. With tears running down my cheeks, I packed my belongings and drove my 98' Nissan Pathfinder away from my home. From that night on I learned to be brave, to follow my dreams, and to fight for what I believe in.

The next few years were tough. In my community, being gay was unacceptable and embracing my identity meant enduring the consequences. I will never forget being dragged into a storage room and choked or hiding the bruises I got from being pelted by textbooks. But looking back, I realize that the lessons I learned drove me towards success. They inspired me to be relentless and graduate early, to surpass expectations by doing college-credit classes, and remain strong in the face of oppression and adversity. Moving forward, as I look to broaden my education horizons, I know that I have the emotional vitality to success wherever I go. So I want to dedicate this essay to my dad and to everyone who made me strong, thank you.

• Honest and Vulnerable: Talking about personal stories can be impactful. Often the most difficult stories are the ones that need to be shared.
• Explains Your Perspective and Emotions: Sharing how you felt in a certain moment can allow the reader to "be in your shoes." By telling your perspective, you allow admissions officers to better understand your experience.
• Focus On Takeaways: Although stories are important, what matters more is the lessons and takeaways from those stories. The majority of your essay should be focused on those ideas, with a smaller portion where you talk about what actually happened.

UCLA Example Essay #17: Fostering Inclusive Leadership

All around us, the world is dominated by big voices, people who can present themselves positively and effectively elaborate on their opinions. Many of our most successful politicians carve their paths to the top through their charisma and articulate language. Unfortunately, while many of them possess a strong voice, many of them don’t possess that same strength in listening. While their job is to represent the people, there is a large disconnect between their perspective and the perspectives of their citizens. Even in Congress, civilized debate has transformed into a shouting battle, where both parties attempt to push their ideas, but neither side is willing to listen.

In contrast, a leader with an open ear, an open mind, and an open heart is exactly what I bring to the table. I believe that everyone has a unique story to share. From the most flamboyant billionaires to the people living on the streets, every single person possesses their own unique set of skills, perspective, and knowledge that can be useful to learn from. Because of this, I make it my priority to listen to and understand the human behind each team member I work with. In recognizing each person’s strengths and weaknesses, I’m able to build a positive environment in which every person is able to reach their maximum potential.

For example, when it comes to group projects, I always make sure to know the personalities of those I’m working with and create a transparent and inclusive environment that is conducive to productivity. Rather than dishing out assignments and deadlines, I make sure everyone is able to contribute in a way that matches their strengths and skills. Furthermore, by creating such a transparent atmosphere, group members are able to understand each other’s situations and help each other out like an actual team, allowing everyone to be both productive and pleased.

With all the divisiveness that is taking place in the country today, it is more necessary than ever to have open-minded leaders such as myself to help bring this campus and this nation together.

• Strong Hook Sentence: Using a thought-provoking idea to start your sentence immediately draws the reader in. By having a unique take on the world, people want to read more and are interested by your thoughts.
• Using Examples to Explain: For abstract ideas and concepts, try using a real life example to make things more clear. Capture the essence of your ideas and find what is at the core of them.

Stepping foot in public has been like opening a floodgate to questions and comments about the one thing that I've been looked down upon my entire life for - my height. Standing out because I was 4'9" wasn't something I was proud of; I was picked last for sports, not taken seriously, and often used as a human arm rest. My mom warned me life was going to be hard if I didn't drink my milk. However, people aren't aware that my appearance is a deception and what makes me extraordinary is that I've outgrown myself. People should be asking me how a person so "big" can fit into a girl so tiny. I have a huge personality, dreams, goals, and a plethora of talent. My achievements earned me such a high standing that I do know what the weather is like up there, yet, my head is never in the clouds because my distance from the ground makes me down to earth.

My only oddity is that my anatomy has grown out of proportion. It's hard to believe that with such short arms, I can extend them long enough to touch hearts with my art and performances. I have been devoted to helping people and educating myself ever since I was young, but who knew that my brain and heart would become so gigantic? Despite my how big my brain is, I keep my head as small as my body because I value letting others know that I'll never overlook them.

Although I haven't hit as many significant growth spurts as the average person. I grow with ambition every day, considering every moment a step closer to success. Being able to pursue my passions at a university will allow me to continue maturing into a person who will one day be looked up to by many. The reader of my response cannot see the facade that has been the subject of many peoples first impressions of me. instead, they will observe that even though I can't reach the top shelf, I can still reach my goals in life.

• Using Metaphors: Explaining something ordinary (like being short) in an unusual or not-so-common way can show your unique take on it. By using metaphors, you can connect seemingly unrelated ideas together.

What can you learn from these UCLA essays?

These UC essays are not perfect—nor should they be—but each has interesting ideas and a unique perspective.

Compared to some private university essays , UC essays are relatively straightforward.

So focus on making each UC essay express one interesting idea as your answer.

Here's my top 4 lessons for UCLA essays:

• Avoid too much storytelling and descriptions. You only have 350 words, so focus on ideas.
• Answer every part of the prompt, clearly. Avoid implying your answer. Make sure your idea is crystal clear and relevant.
• Showcase a different aspect of yourself with each essay. Avoid re-using topics, unless you're taking a very different angle.
• Show your thinking. As with all successful essays, your thinking is most important.

Also applying to UC Berkeley?

I've collected additional essays from admitted Cal students that are completely unique from these UCLA essays.

If you're interested, check out these our essays that worked for UC Berkeley .

Which UCLA essay that worked was your favorite? Let me know!

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People love to ask why. Why do you wear a turban? Why do you have long hair? Why are you playing a guitar with only 3 strings and watching TV at 3 A.M.—where did you get that cat? Why won’t you go back to your country, you terrorist? My answer is... uncomfortable. Many truths of the world are uncomfortable...

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Her baking is not confined to an amalgamation of sugar, butter, and flour. It's an outstretched hand, an open invitation, a makeshift bridge thrown across the divides of age and culture. Thanks to Buni, the reason I bake has evolved. What started as stress relief is now a lifeline to my heritage, a language that allows me to communicate with my family in ways my tongue cannot. By rolling dough for saratele and crushing walnuts for cornulete, my baking speaks more fluently to my Romanian heritage than my broken Romanian ever could....

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A cow gave birth and I watched. Staring from the window of our stopped car, I experienced two beginnings that day: the small bovine life and my future. Both emerged when I was only 10 years old and cruising along the twisting roads of rural Maryland...

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University of California, Los Angeles | UCLA

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University of California, Los Angeles | UCLA’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Select-a-prompt short responses.

Please respond to any 4 of the 8 questions below.We realize that not all questions apply to all applicants, so be sure to select the 4 questions that you believe give us the best information about you.All 8 questions are given equal consideration in the application review process. Responses to each question should be between 250-350 words.

Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.

Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.

What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?

Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?

Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.

What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?

Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

UCLA’s Supplemental Essay Prompts

• Post author By Siena Swift
• Post date October 12, 2023
• No Comments on UCLA’s Supplemental Essay Prompts

The University of California — Los Angeles receives the most applications of any college in the nation. As one of the most prestigious universities in California, with an acceptance rate of 8.8% in 2023, it is frequently referred to as a “public Ivy.” As part of the sprawling UC system , students interested in UCLA must fill out the standardized UC application . Included in this application are eight short “personal insight questions” in lieu of one longer personal statement. Out of these eight questions, students must answer four.

Common App 911/UC App 911

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While these eight questions are the same for every UC school, understanding the unique characteristics of UCLA will help you effectively answer these prompts. UCLA is looking specifically for “intellectual curiosity” and “personal development” in your responses to these essay prompts. Remember, the school aims to foster the shared values of “a creative, ambitious and diverse student body.”

When responding to these prompts, consider how to frame your growth and your commitment to creativity, ambition, and diversity through specific examples. Personal development is a continuous process—make it clear that you intend to contribute to the UCLA community and take advantage of its opportunities while you pursue your own unique path.

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UCLA’S SUPPLEMENTAL ESSAY PROMPTS

Choose four of the eight “personal insight questions” to answer (350 words each):

• Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.
• Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.
• What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?
• Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.
• Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?
• Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.
• What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?
• Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

EXPERT GUIDANCE FOR AN ACADEMIC EDGE

Like the Common Application, the UC application gives you space to showcase your talents, passions and potential. If you’re aiming for UCLA and want more support filling out the UC application, we’ve got you covered in our Common App/UC App 911 Program .

Seeking expert essay guidance as well? Consider our Essay Guidance Program or bundle them for a complete, maximized UC application!

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UCLA Personal Statement: FAQ, Examples & Insider Tips

UCLA is part of the University of California system, which is comprised of nine campuses throughout the state. Students applying to UCLA must use the UC application — the University of California system does not use the Common App or Coalition Application. The application process includes several personal statement prompts, or what UC refers to as personal insight questions. Keep reading to learn more about these prompts and tips for responding to them.   

Does UCLA Need a Personal Statement? 

For admission to any of the University of California schools, including UCLA, you are required to respond to the personal statement prompts, which becomes part of the holistic review. What does holistic review really mean?  

IvyWise counselor Tiffany explains, “holistic review really means and acknowledges that there are multiple parts of your personality, your talents, and your application — and the admissions office is willing to consider each of those areas.” The UCLA essays provide insight into who you are beyond how you perform in the classroom. It helps the admissions committee picture how you will contribute to the campus community. 

UCLA Personal Statement 2023 

Well-crafted essay responses may give you an edge over another strong candidate with comparable academic performance. Taking the time to research how to get into UCLA and including specific and relevant details in your responses will make your personal statements much stronger. According to the University of California, your responses to the personal insight  questions “provide context for the rest of your application.”  

How Long Is the UCLA Personal Statement? 

The UC system provides eight personal insight questions for the 2023-24 admissions cycle. You are required to respond to four of them. Each response should be 250 to 350 words. Review the questions carefully and choose the four that you feel are the most relevant to your circumstances and life experience.  

Why Is UCLA So Hard to Get Into? 

UCLA receives more applications than any other college or university in the U.S., making it highly competitive. The UCLA acceptance rate is less than 9%, making it one of the most selective schools in the UC system. And because it’s state-funded, admissions preference is given to California residents. Therefore, it’s even more challenging for non-California residents to gain admission. For the class of 2027, the acceptance rate was 9.46% for in-state students, 8.62% for out-of-state students, and 6.09% for international students.  

To be competitive, your application should emphasize the three most important factors for UCLA admissions officers: the rigor of your high school coursework, your GPA, and your personal insight essays. Other factors — such as extracurriculars, volunteer/work experience, personal qualities, and talents/skills — are also important but not given as much weight.  

What Does a Good Personal Statement Look Like? 

It takes time and practice to learn how to write a personal statement that’s compelling and competitive. Your essays should demonstrate your intellectual curiosity, a positive attitude, and the personal characteristics that make you a good fit for UCLA. It’s an opportunity to highlight the educational and personal experiences that shaped you as well as your talents and skills — all of which demonstrate how you will contribute to the campus community both inside and outside of the classroom.  

Examples of Personal Statements for UCLA 

Below are the personal insight questions for the 2023-24 admissions cycle — these are the prompts for UCLA and all other schools in the UC system. There is no right or wrong way to respond to these prompts, but these examples can help you think about how to approach your own essays. Since the UC application can go to multiple University of California schools, these responses don’t specifically mention UCLA.   

1. Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time.

Leadership is about empathy, understanding, and finding common ground. My leadership style has been defined by these principles, especially after an experience I had during my sophomore year.  

I joined the student council, serving as a liaison between my peers and the faculty. That year, our school’s annual talent show was in jeopardy due to a heated dispute among the planning committee. I organized a meeting for the committee members to address their concerns and find common ground. I listened to each person’s perspective and soon understood that the arguments stemmed from a lack of clarity about roles and responsibilities.  

To resolve the issue, I proposed a clear division of tasks and responsibilities, which was agreed upon by the committee. I also suggested regular check-ins to ensure everyone was on the same page. The show was soon back on track!  

I continued to lead the team, ensuring everyone felt heard and valued, and reminded them of the positive impact our efforts would have on the school community. We worked together tirelessly to make the talent show a success, and the entire experience was a testament to the power of collaboration and empathy.  

This leadership experience highlighted the importance of active listening and empathy in resolving disputes and fostering a positive group dynamic. It also reinforced the idea that leadership isn’t about being in the spotlight but about facilitating teamwork and collaboration. By focusing on the needs and concerns of everyone on the team, I was able to bring about a harmonious resolution and contribute to the success of the talent show.  

As I embark on my college journey, I carry with me the valuable lessons I learned during this experience. I’m excited to continue developing my leadership experience and making a positive impact on the world.  

2. Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.

Creativity makes life more vibrant and full of endless possibilities. It’s in how I approach problems, the stories I write, and the visions I bring to life through photography.  

Problem-solving has always been my playground for creativity. When faced with a challenge, I don’t just take the conventional path—I twist, turn, and reshape it. Once in math class, we had to figure out a complex probability problem. I designed a colorful, interactive game to help solve it. The teacher loved it, and my peers started seeing math in a new light.  

Through storytelling, I can craft worlds, characters, and emotions. I write short stories, poetry, and even started working on a novel. I take pride in sharing my thoughts and ideas through my writing, hoping to inspire others to explore their creative sides.  

Photography is my way of capturing the world’s magic. Whether it’s the rusty old bike leaning against a graffiti-covered wall or a breathtaking sunset over the ocean, I strive to capture the extraordinary in the ordinary. It’s my hope that my photos ignite a sense of wonder in others and encourage them to view the world with a fresh perspective.  

My creativity isn’t confined to just one box—it’s constantly meandering into different channels. Whether I’m solving problems, spinning tales, or snapping pictures, my creative side is an ever-evolving, kaleidoscopic expression of who I am. It’s about breathing life into the mundane, stirring curiosity, and letting my imagination roam free.  

As I look ahead to college, I envision myself exploring new horizons, meeting fellow artists and thinkers, and discovering fresh ways to express my creativity. My creativity is always evolving, ready to burst with the new colors and patterns of campus life. I’m excited to see where my creative journey will lead me.  

3. What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?

I’ve known since childhood that I’m meant to be an animator. Over the years, I’ve nurtured this talent, honed it, and painted my imagination into vibrant, moving pictures.  

My journey into animation started with doodles in the margins of my notebooks. I couldn’t help but bring life to those still images. It was a spark of magic, and I was hooked. I began teaching myself the basics of animation, poring over online tutorials and practicing relentlessly.  

In high school, I joined the art club, where I had the chance to work on collaborative projects and learn from other passionate artists. But what truly set my journey in motion was an independent project creating an animated short film for a school competition. It was a daunting task, but I was determined to give it my all.  

For weeks, I sketched frames, adjusted details, and tweaked animations until they felt just right. My story was about a young astronaut exploring a distant planet, a reflection of my own sense of adventure and curiosity. The process was grueling but incredibly rewarding.  

The final product played on the screen during the competition to applause and positive feedback. I was overwhelmed with a sense of accomplishment, and I realized that this was what I wanted to pursue in life.  

As I reflect on my journey, I see the growth in my abilities. I’ve developed a keen eye for detail, a better understanding of storytelling, and a deep appreciation for the art of animation. What started as doodles in my notebook transformed into a passionate pursuit of a craft that allows me to express my creativity in unimaginable ways.  

The University of California represents the next step in my animation adventure. I’m excited about the opportunity to study animation in a structured and collaborative environment, where I can learn from experienced professionals and immerse myself in this art form. My dream is to work in the animation industry, creating stories that touch hearts, inspire minds, and make people believe in the magic of animation.  

4. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

One of the most significant educational barriers I’ve faced is my struggle with dyslexia. Reading and writing doesn’t come naturally to me, and for a long time, I felt like I was lagging behind my peers. The education system seemed designed for students who could effortlessly absorb information from textbooks, while I had to fight for every word.  

I was determined not to let dyslexia define me and sought out opportunities to overcome it. I reached out to a school counselor who connected me with Learning Ally, a specialized reading program. Through countless hours of hard work and dedication, I began to make progress. It was slow, but it was progress—and that’s what mattered most to me.  

I also tapped into tools like text-to-speech software and speech recognition. These resources allowed me to engage with the material in a way that accommodated my unique learning style. They transformed my educational experience, giving me a sense of empowerment and independence.  

Soon, I began to realize the power of resilience. My struggle with dyslexia taught me that it’s not the challenges we encounter, but how we confront them, that truly matters. I became more proactive about advocating for my educational needs and helping other students with similar challenges.  

By taking advantage of the educational opportunities available to me and embracing the tools that could help me succeed, I learned that every obstacle is an opportunity in disguise. I may not be the fastest reader or have the strongest writing skills, but I’ve developed a unique perspective and a tenacity that will serve me well in the future.  

I aim to carry this spirit of determination with me to the University of California. Overcoming my educational barriers made me ready to face any challenge that comes my way. I hope to inspire others who face similar hurdles to believe in their own ability to overcome obstacles.  

5. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?

Childhood cancer. These two words don’t just represent a medical condition—they carry emotional weight.  

My younger sister’s leukemia diagnosis was gut-wrenching for our family. Then came a whirlwind of doctor’s appointments, hospital stays, and endless uncertainty into our lives. My parents were consumed by the daily fight for my sister’s life. The stress and emotional toll of the situation were immense, and it inevitably impacted my academic performance.  

Eventually, I learned to manage my time effectively, squeezing in study sessions during hospital visits and late nights. I explained my situation to teachers and my school counselor, and they provided the necessary support and accommodations to help me stay on track academically.  

I became involved in initiatives to raise awareness and funds for leukemia research. I organized fundraisers, volunteered at children’s hospitals, and participated in awareness campaigns. These actions not only provided a sense of purpose during a challenging time but also allowed me to make a difference in the lives of other families facing similar battles.  

Academically, it’s been a rollercoaster ride. I’ve had periods of academic excellence, followed by moments where I struggled to keep up. But I’ve come to realize that true success isn’t defined by grades; it’s about rising to a challenge and finding strength in the face of adversity. My sister taught me that.  

My sister faced a life-threatening illness, but she rose to the challenge and has been cancer-free now for a year. Her strength inspires me. I now aspire to become a pediatric oncologist, using my knowledge and passion to help children like my sister.  

This challenging time affected my academic achievement, but it also transformed me into a stronger, more compassionate individual. I hope to use what I learned from this experience as fuel for my academic journey and my future mission to help children and families facing childhood cancer.  

6. Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.

Stars, galaxies, and black holes have always fascinated me. This cosmic curiosity isn’t limited to just the classroom.  

I’m that kid who can’t get enough of astrophysics: the theories of Einstein, the mysteries of dark matter, and the birth and death of stars—these are the puzzles I love to ponder. My teachers say I’m a space geek, and I wear that title proudly. I’ve aced my AP Physics and astronomy courses. When it comes to space, I can talk your ear off about everything from the Big Bang to wormholes.  

I founded an astronomy club at my school, and every stargazing night is a chance to explore the universe. Armed with telescopes, we scan the night sky, trying to spot distant galaxies and nebulae. There’s something magical about watching a meteor shower or the phases of the moon. I’m connecting with the cosmos, and it’s mesmerizing.  

I’ve also helped organize public telescope viewings at a park near my house. Sharing my passion with others is as thrilling as uncovering the secrets of the universe. Watching the wonder in a child’s eyes as they see Saturn’s rings for the first time is a feeling like no other.  

Outside of school, I follow the latest discoveries, read scientific journals, and even tune into space exploration missions. When NASA’s Perseverance rover touched down on Mars, I was glued to the live feed, dreaming of the day I might work on such missions myself.  

I’m excited to meet other space geeks in college, joining them in exploring the mysteries of the cosmos and contributing to humanity’s understanding of the universe. I’m looking forward to taking the next step toward making my dream of becoming an astrophysicist a reality.

7. What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?

I believe that even small gestures can create ripples of change, and that’s what I’ve set out to do in my school and in my community.  

I helped make my school a better place by starting a kindness club. It all began with a simple idea: to spread positivity and create a more inclusive environment. We organize events like “Compliment Day” and “Kindness Challenges” to encourage students, teachers, and staff to uplift one another. Through these activities, I’ve seen smiles, laughter, and friendships bloom. It’s been heartwarming to witness the impact of kindness on our school culture.  

Mentoring younger students has also been incredibly rewarding. I volunteer as a tutor at an after-school program, helping the students with their homework and providing academic support. It’s not just about assisting them with their schoolwork—I offer encouragement and help them develop confidence in their abilities.   

Beyond these organized efforts, I’m a firm believer in leading by example. I try to be a source of positivity and support for my peers. Whether it’s offering a listening ear or helping someone who’s struggling, I want to be someone others can lean on.  

These experiences have not only enriched my school and community but have also taught me the power of compassion, empathy, and the importance of giving back. As I look ahead to college, I hope to continue making a positive impact. Whether it’s through joining service-oriented clubs or starting new initiatives, I’m excited to contribute to my new community in any way I can. Because, in the end, it’s not about grand gestures; it’s about the collective effort to spread positivity and make the world a better place, one small act at a time.  

8. Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admission to the University of California?

In my small Sierra County, California, town, opportunities for exposure to the vast expanse of knowledge and experiences tend to be scarce. The resources required for an ambitious student’s intellectual growth are limited, and it’s quite a distance to any town with robust educational amenities. However, amidst this lonely setting stands a beacon of hope and knowledge—our local library.  

The library is my haven, my classroom, and my window to the world beyond the comforting but stifling embrace of small-town life. It is where my curiosity is nurtured and my ambitions are fueled. The library’s partnership with other libraries allows me to access a wider range of materials, and I take advantage, checking out an array of books and magazines that supplement my classroom learning and open my mind to the wider world.   

I believe the self-discipline, resourcefulness, and inquisitiveness I honed during those countless hours in the library make me a strong candidate for admission to the University of California. I am accustomed to making the most of what is available, a skill that will serve me well in a university setting. Moreover, my humble upbringing instilled in me the values of hard work, determination, and a genuine appreciation for education.  

I am excited about the prospect of transitioning from a small town to a prestigious institution where the opportunities and resources are boundless. I am eager to contribute my unique perspective shaped by my experiences and in turn, learn from the myriad experiences of others.  

I may have fewer accolades compared to those from more resourceful backgrounds. However, I have a relentless spirit, a profound appreciation for learning, and a ceaseless curiosity to explore beyond the familiar. I am poised to embrace the vast academic and extracurricular opportunities at the University of California, eager to continue my journey of self-discovery and contribute to the community with the earnestness and determination that have brought me this far.  

Once you have a draft for the four prompts you selected, it’s time to start revising and refining. 

UCLA Personal Statement Tips   

The UCLA admissions committee is looking for responses that ring true, so feel free to demonstrate your personality in your essays. Admissions officers can tell when a student isn’t being authentic! Nothing makes your essay more authentic than writing about what excites and motivates you. IvyWise counselor Victoria suggests thinking about what you love to do and what you’re interested in so you can “think about ways that you can show who you are, how you think about the world, and what’s important to you through those topics.” 

While you’re encouraged to be yourself, it’s also important to be cautious. The UCLA admissions office advises students to “be careful with humor and clichés” in their essays. Humor can be easily misinterpreted, and clichés are unoriginal and detract from your voice. As the examples above illustrate, using specific details to show UCLA who you are is important. Just keep in mind that they want to know more about who you are right now than who you plan to be in the future.  

Even with these tips, you might struggle to craft your essays for UCLA. IvyWise is here to help! Our counselors have served as admissions officers at some of the top colleges and universities in the U.S. and have read thousands of essays. Schedule an Initial Consultation to learn how we can help you with the college admissions process.  

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Learn the Top UCLA Supplemental Essay Tips for 2024

By Eric Eng

Want to be a Bruin? You’re in good company if you want to know how to get into UCLA. This 100-plus-year-old research university is known for breaking the world record for the highest number of applications every year. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out some UCLA essay examples to see how others have successfully applied.

The University of California, Los Angeles (best known as UCLA ) may be just a half-hour from the Hollywood entertainment hub, but its students’ favorite majors include technical degrees like biology, business economics, political science, psychology, psychobiology, and economics, making it a highly sought-after location for research and technology. Reviewing UCLA essay examples can give you a good idea of what makes a compelling application.

The application process for UCLA is managed solely by the UC Application Portal. Fortunately, you can use one application for nine campuses. In this blog, we’ll dive into how you can answer UCLA essay prompts as well as everything you should consider when writing. Don’t forget to look at UCLA essay examples to guide you in crafting your responses.

What is the Application Process at UCLA?

Admission to UCLA is just one part of the process when applying to any of the ten UC campuses. The UC system has its application, along with its range of different essay prompts. Those are essay prompts that go out to all applicants, no matter which of those campuses they apply to. Looking at UCLA essay examples can help you understand how to effectively respond to these prompts.

Since UCLA does not use the common app , be ready to give answers to essay questions as provided by the UC system. The supplemental essay prompts for UCLA 2023-2024 offer students a bit of freedom as they choose a topic for the supplemental essay, but let’s look through each essay prompt and talk about the best way to approach each topic. UCLA essay examples can be particularly useful in seeing how others have successfully tackled these topics.

These essay prompts are for all students applying to every campus in the UC system. While the UC system requires no specific type of writing, there are a few things to consider when writing your answers. The UC system offers its applicants eight essay prompts from which to choose, from which you choose four to answer. There is no structural difference in essay weight, so ideally you would focus only on those that speak to you the most. Reviewing UCLA essay examples can provide valuable insights into how to make your responses stand out.

How to Write UCLA Supplemental Essays?

Applicants are asked to answer four of the eight essay prompts, and the UCLA supplemental essay word limit is 350 words per response.

1. Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time.

This prompt asks you to reflect on times when you took a leadership role, but leadership can take many forms. Not everyone will be student body president or captain of the football team, but there’s a good chance that you’ve been involved in some sort of activity where you either chose to take the lead, or you had leadership thrust upon you. This might have come in the form of taking charge of a group project or rallying your peers for a cause. It may have even been a leadership role within your family. The goal is to be specific about the circumstances and the impact you were able to have. Reviewing UCLA essay examples can help you understand how to illustrate these experiences effectively.

2. Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem-solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistic, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.

Many students worry that if they don’t participate in the arts, it means they don’t have a creative side, but this isn’t true. Creativity is essential for nearly any important project. Creativity can take the form of problem-solving, and this can relate to the type of career you want to have. The key is to look at creativity very broadly and zero in on the ways that you are creative. UCLA essay examples can show you how to effectively convey your creative side in your writing.

3. What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?

If you are a concert pianist or a master glass blower, this is the place to talk about it. But talent or skill doesn’t always manifest artistically. Sometimes a talent or skill is something much simpler, but the point here isn’t how impressive your talent is, but rather the process you went through to acquire the skill. Talk about your journey, and how it has affected your life. Look at UCLA essay examples to see how other students have effectively discussed their talents and skills.

4. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

No matter how successful you are as a student, nearly everyone has something they have overcome in their academic career. At the same time, you’ve likely also become involved in some sort of educational activity that has had a unique impact on you and your path. This might be a high-level course in high school or a college-level course. It could also be a program you attended over the summer or after school like an internship or apprenticeship.

The key to answering this prompt is to concentrate on how you took advantage of the opportunity, and what this will mean for your future. Or how you were able to overcome adversity. What did you need to do to remove that obstacle? And what lessons have you learned from the experience? Referencing UCLA essay examples can give you ideas on how to frame your experiences.

5. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?

This prompt is similar to the one above, but it’s a bit broader. This could be a personal or family challenge, a challenge that faced your community, or it could be an academic challenge. The key to responding to this prompt is what you have learned from the challenge. It’s not a contest to see who has faced the biggest challenge, but rather an opportunity for you to discuss the personal integrity that was required to overcome the challenge.

If you are still working through your challenge, write about what you’ve learned so far, and what action you plan to take in the future. UCLA essay examples can provide insights on how to discuss challenges and growth effectively.

6. Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.

Most students have an area of study that is more interesting than anything else. This prompt allows you to discuss what makes you excited about learning, and it gives you a chance to showcase your intellectual curiosity. Write about what made you so excited about this subject, and why you want to continue pursuing it.

The second part of this prompt asks you to discuss how you transitioned your interest in this subject to other aspects of your life. Did you become active in clubs or community service organizations? Did you devote your summers to programs that allowed you to further your passion? The UC system wants students who are excited about learning, and this is where you can demonstrate your passion. By examining UCLA essay examples, you can see how to effectively convey your passion for a subject.

7. What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?

Again, when considering this prompt, think of the concept of community as broadly as possible. This could be your school community , your town, your team, or even your group of friends. The key is to focus on a tangible experience in which you made the effort to effect positive change.

When responding to this prompt, think about why you chose to act, and the obstacles you may have faced when you acted. Reflect on your process, and why you chose the actions you took. And finally, write about the outcome of your action. Did it result in a lasting change or did you have to take further action? The goal of this prompt is to demonstrate that you are the kind of person who is proactive and dedicated. UCLA essay examples can help you see how to effectively discuss your contributions to your community.

8. Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admission to the University of California?

As you’ve worked through the UC application and the UCLA supplemental essays, consider if there is something significant about your life or your education that the UC needs to know. Do you have skills that have not been reflected so far on your application? Have you experienced challenges that are relevant to admissions officers ? You can also discuss why the UC system is the right choice for you because of a specific reason. Reviewing UCLA essay examples can provide you with a better understanding of how to present your unique qualities and experiences effectively.

UCLA Major-Specific Supplemental Essay Prompts

The following were gathered from the UCLA Admissions Site:

1. Architecture

Please provide a concise statement that describes why you wish to study architecture at UCLA. What interests you in architecture now, and why at UCLA? You will have 3500 characters (including spaces) / approximately 500 words.

To craft a compelling statement, consider reviewing UCLA essay examples for guidance on structuring your response and highlighting your motivations. UCLA essay examples can help you articulate why UCLA’s architecture program specifically aligns with your interests and goals in the field.

Please provide a concise statement describing your interest, experiences, and influences in art, and your goals for studying art at UCLA. You will have 2200 characters (including spaces) / approximately 300 words. We recommend that you write your statement in a separate word processing program, then copy/paste it into the web application.

Reviewing UCLA essay examples can give you insight into how to effectively structure your statement. Additionally, UCLA essay examples can inspire you to highlight your unique experiences and goals

Please respond to the following prompt: How might dance address some of the pressing social issues of our times? How do you see yourself or other choreographers as social change agents? You will have 3500 characters (including spaces) / approximately 500 words. We recommend that you write your statement in a separate word processing program, and then cut/paste it into the web application. We recommend that you refer to our FAQ for best approaches to this section of the application.

4. Design | Media Arts

In 500 characters or less, list your TOP 5 CREATIVE INFLUENCES. What art or artists inspire you? These could be designers, painters, directors, photographers, video game makers, or any other type of cultural producer.

5. Ethnomusicology

You will be asked to write responses to the below prompts. Please keep in mind that your responses to these questions are a significant part of the supplemental application review.

• What are your reasons for wishing to major in Ethnomusicology? What do you expect from the program? What are your professional or career goals? (200 words maximum)
• Briefly describe your musical background and performance skills. Mention any special interests in particular music traditions, and whether these are through family connections or your own instigation. Music courses you have taken may be included. (200 words maximum)
• Indicate any special training (e.g. knowledge of foreign languages) or experiences (e.g. foreign travel, community development projects involving different cultures, family experience, etc.) that might be relevant to the study of music from a global perspective. (400 words maximum)

6. Film & Television

• Personal Essay (2 page max). The personal essay should include a summary of your background, creative interests, and academic and professional goals. The personal essay may include unusual life experiences, important influences in your life, your motivation to study film and television, and the kind of creative work you hope to pursue. Reviewing UCLA essay examples can provide valuable insights on how to structure your personal narrative and highlight your unique experiences. Do not use the personal essay to flatter us; use these few pages to create a very personal and vivid picture of yourself, what is most important to you, and your creative and professional goals. UCLA essay examples can serve as inspiration to help you craft a compelling and authentic story.
• Life Challenge Essay (2 page max). Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement? Things to consider: A challenge could be personal, or something you have faced in your community or school. Why was the challenge significant to you? This is a good opportunity to talk about any obstacles you’ve faced and what you’ve learned from the experience. Did you have support from someone else or did you handle it alone? If you’re currently working your way through a challenge, what are you doing now, and does that affect different aspects of your life? For example, ask yourself, “How has my life changed at home, at my school, with my friends, or with my family?” Reviewing UCLA essay examples can help you understand how to effectively frame your experiences and lessons learned. Please Note: This question is identical to optional Question #5 on the UC Application. UCLA essay examples can also provide guidance on structuring your narrative to create a compelling and impactful essay.

7. Writing Sample

• Critical Essay (3 page max).  The critical essay is your analysis of a film or television program. This essay is NOT a review. You should assume the reader has seen the work you are discussing; do not include a plot summary. This essay is similar to what you would write in an English literature or film history course. It is your analysis of any aspect(s) of the work you have selected: the use of design, composition, color, lighting, sound, etc. as it relates to social observation or commentary, moral or philosophical elements, psychological aspects or relationships of the characters, dramatic structure, etc; OR
• Creative Writing (5 page max).  You may submit any one kind or combination of creative writing: a short story, a film treatment, a storyboard, a script or play excerpt (including a short synopsis of the complete script), etc. Those interested in submitting poetry, photographs, and/or drawings must submit one other type of creative work. The total of all submitted creative writing combined cannot exceed the 5 page maximum. No preference is given to one type of creative work over another. DO NOT SUBMIT FILMS, DVDS, or CDS.

8. Global Jazz Studies

Please answer all three of the following prompts. You will have 750 words total to respond to all prompts. It is recommended that you write your statement in a separate word processing program, then copy and paste it into the online application.

• What are your reasons for wishing to enroll in the B.A. in Global Jazz Studies? What do you expect from the program? What are your professional or career goals? (250 words maximum)
• Briefly describe your musical background and performance skills. Music courses you have taken may be included. (250 words maximum)
• Indicate any special training or experiences that might be relevant to the study of jazz from a global perspective. (250 words maximum)

9. Music History & Industry

You are required to complete a total of two personal statement responses. The first is required by everyone; the second is a choice between two options, option A (written response) or option B (creative portfolio submission with explanation). As Music History & Industry is not a performance-based major, this choice will allow you to play to your strengths, whether that means calling upon your business savvy or creative prowess.

Reviewing UCLA essay examples can provide valuable insights into how to effectively craft your written response or explain your creative portfolio. Additionally, UCLA essay examples can help you understand how to highlight your unique skills and experiences in a way that aligns with the focus of the Music History & Industry major.

Below please find a list of the required lower division (first year and sophomore) major courses for the Music History & Industry BA. Please discuss how a practical and theoretical training in music ( music theory , musicianship, and performance ensemble participation) will serve your goals of working within the music industry. (400 words max)

Required Lower Division Courses: Musicology M6A, M6B, M6C (Introduction to Musicianship); Music 20A, 20B, 20C (Music Theory I, II, III); Musicology 12W (Writing about Music); 2 Performance Organizations; 1 lower division Musicology or Music Industry elective.

(For a full list of Music Industry courses, please reference the course catalog here .)

Prompt #2: Please choose between option A or option B:

Option A. Written response option: In 1999, the best year the music industry has ever had, revenue from recorded music exceeded that from live musical performance by a factor of 10 to 1. By 2009, thanks to the collapse of the recording market, the ratio had fallen to 3 to 2. Current sales of individual sound recordings and albums remain at historic lows, and the live music sector has been decimated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Given this complex history, what do you think the music industry will look like in the year 2025? How will music be consumed? What models for generating revenue will be dominant, and why? (400 words max); OR

Option B. Creative portfolio option: Please upload 1-3 recorded (audio, visual, or both) examples of recent work in the highest quality audio possible. In the space for a written response below, please provide a detailed explanation of your specific role in the work (as lyricist, performer, producer, or a combination). If written scores or other documentation are available, please feel free to submit these as well.

10. Music Composition

Please provide a concise statement that describes why you wish to study music at UCLA. In your statement, and in no particular order, please discuss the following elements:

• Your goals for studying music at UCLA
• Your musical interests, experiences, and influences
• Your professional/career objectives

You will have a maximum of 500 words. It is recommended that you write your statement in a separate word processing program, then cut and paste it into the web application.

11. Music Education

• Why you want to study music education at UCLA

12. Music Performance

Please provide a concise statement that describes why you wish to study Music Performance at UCLA. In your statement, and in no particular order, please discuss the following elements:

• Your vision for community engagement and sustained relevance as a musician

13. Musicology

The Musicology major is not primarily a performance major, so there is no audition . Instead, your answers to the following two prompts will serve as your “audition” in words. A strong relationship to writing and verbal expression is fundamental to success in our program. The faculty will be reading these for thoughtfulness, originality, clarity, concision, and correct English.

Reviewing UCLA essay examples can provide you with valuable insights into how to demonstrate these qualities effectively in your responses. Additionally, UCLA essay examples can help you understand how to highlight your unique perspectives and experiences in a way that aligns with the expectations of the Musicology program.

• Tell the admissions committee why you are attracted to the program (Tip: study the course offerings and the profiles of our professors to help craft your answer). (400 words maximum)
• Tell the admissions committee what you think the study of musicology will teach you, and how you envision using those skills after college (Tip: stay focused on the program. You’ll have other opportunities in the admission process to talk about your relationship to music, its importance to humanity, etc). For a basic overview of what “musicology” is, go here. (400 words maximum)

14. Theater – Acting

Acting Essay (300 word max).

An Essay on the following: In addition to generating empathy, how can acting be used to further social justice projects? Please provide a specific example in your answer.

15. Theater – Design/Production

Design Approach (6 page max).  An Essay (2 page max) of your ORIGINAL design approach to any specific Early Modern production (i.e. Shakespeare, Spanish Golden Age, Ming or Qing Dynasties, etc.)  Optional Supporting Images (2-4 page max) of your interpretation of your potential design approach.

16. Theater – Musical Theater

Musical Theater  Acting Essay (300 word max).  An Essay on the following: In addition to generating empathy, how can acting be used to further social justice projects? Please provide a specific example in your answer.

17. World Arts and Cultures

After reading the department’s mission statement , please explain what makes you an especially well-suited candidate for the BA in World Arts and Cultures. Your response must reflect whether and how you see cultures and arts as tools for expression and social transformation. You will have 3500 characters (including spaces) / approximately 500 words. We recommend that you write your statement in a separate word processing program, and then cut/paste it into the web application.

Reviewing UCLA essay examples can provide valuable insights into effectively structuring your response and demonstrating your unique qualifications. Additionally, UCLA essay examples can help you understand how to articulate the importance of cultures and arts in fostering expression and driving social change.

Ready to Start Your UCLA journey?

At AdmissionSight, our goal is to help you with every step of the college admissions process . The UCLA supplemental essays can seem daunting at first, but our experience and expertise, along with providing yoyu essential tips regarding UCLA essay examples, will help you navigate the entire process with confidence. Hopefully, this guide to the UCLA supplemental essays has been helpful, but if you want more information about how AdmissionSight can help you realize your dreams with tailored advice and UCLA essay examples, set up your free consultation today.

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UC Essay Prompts 2024-25 – Personal Insight Questions

June 18, 2024

The 2023-24 admissions cycle saw the nine undergraduate University of California campuses collectively attract an all-time record of 250,000+ applications; this represented a double-digit increase from three years prior. Logic would suggest that institutions receiving as many as 174,000 applications (UCLA) would not employ a particularly holistic admissions process. Certainly, not one that would give any weight to a supplemental essay, much less to four essays. In general, large institutions do indeed rarely devote much time to carefully considering application essays. Yet, true to brand, the UC schools defy convention. And thanks to some recent global changes enacted across the whole UC system, the UC essay prompts (UC Personal Insight Questions, or PIQs for short) have become an even more essential application component to anyone who hopes to study at any of the following UC campuses:

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Are the UC Personal Insight Questions important? 

The UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) have become a critical part of your application, in part due to recent changes in UC’s standardized test policy.

In May 2020, as the pandemic wreaked havoc on the U.S. educational system (not to mention the rest of the country/world), the UC Board of Regents voted to make all of their universities test-optional for students applying to enroll in fall 2021 and fall 2022. By itself, such an announcement was hardly notable. After all, hundreds of other high-profile colleges made similar temporary policy changes due to the impact of COVID-19. It was the changes for fall 2022 applicants (and beyond) that shocked the higher education universe…

To everyone’s astonishment, this gargantuan system that garners over a quarter of a million applicants per year decided to go “test-blind” moving forward, despite internal data finding that test scores helped predict undergraduate achievement. This means that none of the nine schools listed above will even look at an applicant’s SAT or ACT score anymore. So, what’s the takeaway here for you, a future UC applicant? Simple: the essays matter more than ever before. Your writing will be your main opportunity to differentiate yourself from swarms of other well-qualified applicants.

Given this new reality, let’s turn our attention to the focal point of the article—the UC essays themselves. For each, we will offer thoughts/tips to guide you with prompt selection and execution of a stellar composition.

A Guide to the UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs)

The UC Personal Insight Questions vary from other college essays in that the UCs explicitly prefer factual responses.

What does this mean?!

While you should still plan to write with attention to syntax and style, the UCs are most interested in information vs. creativity. Accordingly, you don’t need to worry about having an interesting hook, thoughtful metaphors, or a high level of descriptive language. Instead, focus on communicating impact—measurable, if possible—on both yourself as well as others. Aim for as much clarity and straightforwardness as possible. Remember, UC admissions officers are reading quite quickly, and you want to ensure that your message is received on their first read.

Wondering what that might look like? Check out our blog: UC Essay Examples.

*Note: Your response to each UC PIQ is limited to 350 words.

UC Essay Prompt # 1

Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.

Leadership is an admirable quality, but it can manifest in many different forms. This essay is not only for those who captained a varsity team to a state title or founded a charitable organization or served as student body president. Teamwork and collaboration are also valued leadership skills both in academia and in the workplace, and students with strong interpersonal skills and a high EQ can be an asset to any university. Think beyond the title that you may have held and more about the action(s) of which you are most proud. Note that the university invites you to share a story that involves your family. In other words, it doesn’t just have to be school or extracurriculars.

To sum up, this essay is about leadership, broadly defined. You can chronicle anything from mentoring others on your debate team to a simple instance of conflict resolution within your peer group. This is often a prompt that appeals more to extroverts, but that does not preclude a story of quiet leadership from being a winning choice here.

UC Essay Prompt #2

Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.

Whether you are a prospective studio art, mechanical engineering, mathematics, or psychology major, creativity and the art of problem-solving will likely be at the heart of what you do. Even if few would refer to you as a “creative type,” this prompt can still serve as a nice platform from which to reveal more about what makes you tick and the unique ways in which your synapses fire.

There are two ways to go with this prompt. First, you could: Tie your creativity directly to your future major and/or career. Secondly, you could paint a picture of your personal brand of creativity that reveals who you are as an individual, whether that’s painting, knitting, coding, or something else. Either way, this prompt can inspire some highly impactful, needle-moving responses from applicants.

UC Personal Insight Questions Prompt #3

What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?

If you are a world-class athlete, you are likely already in the recruitment process. If you placed high in AIME or won a National Merit Scholarship, that is already stated in the awards section. Therefore, using the prized 350 words of real estate to merely rehash the fact that you won an award would not be an inspiring move.

If you read the question closely, UC wants to know how you got good at whatever it is that you excel at doing. A few years back, Malcolm Gladwell popularized the idea that becoming a master or expert at anything takes 10,000 hours of practice. Consider talking about the grind and sacrifice it took you to become great at a given skill and how you see that skill becoming even more finely tuned/developed over time. If this skill fits into your future academic/career plans, all the better—share that too!

UC PIQ Prompt#4

Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

This is a prompt that acknowledges the fact that some students are born with more advantages than others. Some teens attend schools with very limited advanced course offerings; others attend high schools with 25+ AP courses. Whether you come from a privileged or an economically disadvantaged home, this prompt can be a solid choice for you.

First off, it’s important to acknowledge that an “educational opportunity” doesn’t have to be your regular high school curriculum; it can be a summer program, debate club, shadowing opportunity with a physician, or a language immersion program in Peru.

On the overcoming an educational barrier front, this could be an issue of resources/economics or the barrier could be in the form of a learning disability, mental or physical health challenge, or just merely stretching yourself to take an AP Physics course when that area was not your strong suit.

Colleges like students who demonstrate grit, perseverance, and resilience as these qualities typically lead to success in a postsecondary environment. No matter what type of example you offer, demonstrating these admirable traits can do wonders for your admissions prospects.

UC Personal Insight Questions Prompt #5   

Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?

This is a more generalized version of PIQ #4. Challenges can be anything mentioned in the previous section (disabilities, illness, etc.). They could also be events like moving in the middle of junior year or being impacted by a natural disaster. Or perhaps your parents got divorced, a grandparent passed away, or any number of other personal/family traumas one can name. If a challenge you faced and overcame is a core part of your personal story, then this is a great choice. Just be sure to include the positive steps you have taken in response to the challenge, and discuss how it affected your academics!

UC Essay Prompt #6

Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.

Students who are “Undecided” may shy away from this prompt. Contrarily, those who are laser-focused on a given academic area often find this to be an ideal selection. Whether it’s a general love for math/science or literature or a specific interest in aerospace engineering or 19th-century Russian novels, use this opportunity to share what makes you tick, the ideas that keep you up at night, and what subject inspires you to dream big. You’ll also want to be sure to include the tangible ways that you’ve pursued this interest—perhaps you took an upper-level class or joined a related club at school, watched documentaries, listened to podcasts, secured an internship, joined an online forum, etc.

Furthermore, explain how your love of this subject may tie into your area of study or even a future career path. That said, avoid mentioning specific campus resources in your response, especially if you are applying to multiple UCs, as all campuses receive the same essay questions.

UC Personal Insight Questions Prompt #7

What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?

How you interact with your present surroundings is the strongest indicator of what kind of future community member you’ll be. This PIQ asks you to define your role within a community—your high school, your neighborhood, your family, or even a club or sports team. Some words of warning with this one: don’t get too grandiose in explaining the positive change that you brought about. Of course, if you truly brought peace to a war-torn nation or influenced global climate change policy, share away; but, nothing this high-profile is expected. This is more a question about how to relate to others, your value system, your charitable/giving nature, and how you interact with the world around you. If you have a sincere and heartfelt story in this vein to share, then #7 is an excellent selection.

UC Essay Prompt #8

Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

Is there anything you have yet to share that is absolutely elemental to who you are as a person? Without the benefit of an in-person interview, it may feel like you never fully had a chance to connect intimately with a UC admissions officer. You have a burning sense that you have not communicated your true essence, your je ne sais quoi, your…you get the idea. If something important hasn’t been communicated elsewhere in the application, then PIQ #8 is about to become your best friend.

Consider that the admissions reader is already somewhat familiar with your academic history, activities, and awards. What don’t they know, or, what could they understand on a deeper level? This could be a particular skill or talent, or something about your character or personality. This one is intentionally open-ended, so use this space to share your most cherished accomplishments or most winning attributes. The university itself is inviting you to “brag” here. Therefore, we recommend obliging, by presenting the equivalent to a “closing argument” at the end of this admissions trial.

College Transitions’ Final Thoughts — UC PIQs

• With the introduction of a test-blind policy , the UC PIQs have never been of greater importance.
• Pick the four UC essay prompts from which you can generate the most compelling and revealing responses. No prompts are inherently favored or preferred by the admissions committee.
• If you are able to organically and convincingly tie in your academic and career interests, take the opportunity to do just that (in any prompt).
• If you’re applying to a STEM major, it is generally advised to include PIQ #6 in your round-up.
• Strongly consider PIQ #8. It is the most open-ended option and allows you to highlight anything that doesn’t fit elsewhere in the application.
• The UCs do not receive the Common App essay, so you can adapt it for one of these prompts. Win!

Want to learn more about how to get into the University of California campus of your dreams? Visit the following blogs for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance:

• How to Get Into UC Berkeley: Acceptance Rate and Strategies
• How to Get Into UCLA: Acceptance Rate and Strategies
• How to Get Into UC Davis: Admissions Data and Strategies
• How to Get Into UC Irvine: Acceptance Rate and Strategies
• How to Get Into UC Santa Barbara: Acceptance Rate and Strategies
• The Best UC Schools Ranked
• Easiest and Hardest UCs and CSUs to Get Into
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Andrew Belasco

A licensed counselor and published researcher, Andrew's experience in the field of college admissions and transition spans two decades. He has previously served as a high school counselor, consultant and author for Kaplan Test Prep, and advisor to U.S. Congress, reporting on issues related to college admissions and financial aid.

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UCLA Secondary Essay Prompts and Examples

Looking for UCLA secondary essay information? You've come to the right spot. In this blog, we will go over several UCLA secondary essay examples and give you tips for how to make your secondaries stand out!

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Listen to the blog!

Article Contents 8 min read

The David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA) receives thousands of applicants each year competing for approximately 160 places into its MD program. Upon receiving the supplemental application request letter, students will have just fifteen days to complete and submit their secondary application, which requires addressing 10 different prompts. This is a tight timeline for most, so preparing your UCLA secondary essays in advance will allow for well-thought, well-crafted responses. This post will provide you with the UCLA secondary essay prompts along with sample essay examples.

Secondary applications are sent by medical schools between August - October to further assess a candidate's suitability for the profession. The secondaries are comprised of questions or prompts that are designed to help the admissions committee learn more about a candidate's passions, interests, and experiences. Applicants are required to answer these prompts while adhering to strict word or character counts. The length of each essay is school dependent, some prompts will require a response in 150 words, while others will allow for 1500 words. While some schools send out secondary applications to all applicants, others only send out secondaries to applicants they are interested in learning more about. While there are many medical school secondary essay examples , " why do you want to be a doctor ", " tell me about yourself " and  diversity essay medical school  prompts are common.

Every institution will have its own medical school application timelines . UCLA accepts applicants on a rolling admissions schedule. Once an applicant has received the secondary application request letter, applicants are given a maximum of 15 days to submit their application, or it's due by UCLA's mid-October deadline, whichever is earlier. Due to this, it's recommended that applicants submit their primary application to AMCAS early, well before the UCLA AMCAS application deadline. Here is UCLA's typical timeline:

Rolling offers of admission starting in October of the year of application "}]">

Each school has its own list of medical school secondary essays  comprised of between one to ten prompts on average. The UCLA medical school requirements call for 10 different secondary essay prompts, probing students to explore their interests, volunteer experience, significant achievements, and hardships. Use the examples below as a guideline to help you create your own unique responses.

1. Describe your involvement in the one most important non-academic activity in your life. (800 char)

In high school, I developed a hobby that quickly turned into a daily habit: exercising. Exercise has had a formidable impact on many areas of my life. Regular exercise creates discipline and amplifies my work ethic. When I was insecure, working out increased my confidence. Exercise gave me a sense of control by displaying the direct correlation between my hard work and the results that are attained. This revelation was first noticed through this habit, but it swiftly carried over to many other areas of my life as well. I strongly believe that this habit played a major role in my character development, and I would not be the same person I am today if I never began exercising.

Click here to see another response to this prompt.

2. What has been the one most unique leadership, entrepreneurial or creative activity in which you participated? (800 char)

While volunteering at the Arts Academy, a society serving those with disabilities, I noticed the boys participated in activities not otherwise available to girls. Many girls had issues making friends, while the boys seemed comfortable with each other. To improve the girl's situation, I started the first girls’ basketball team. Many families were against the girl's participation as they believed sports were for boys. By explaining the mental and physical health benefits of participating, I successfully convinced half of the families. The girls became more confident and self-sufficient. I felt accomplished, not just because I taught them basketball, but because they'd become friends. This experience taught me compassion, commitment, and how to work with people from different backgrounds.

1. Streamline your responses.

The UCLA secondary essay prompts are quite challenging for students. At first glance at the low character counts, you may feel relieved to discover you won't be writing ten different chapters. However, many of the prompts require a response between 300-500 characters, equating to roughly 3-5 sentences. To convey maturity, passion, and lessons learned in only a few sentences is extremely difficult. Students must be able to craft a concise, direct response to the question while adhering strictly to the character count. To create a streamlined response, focus on the main takeaway point that you want to convey, and structure your response around it.

2. Demonstrate self-reflection.

It isn't enough to simply state an experience that you've had when answering the UCLA secondary prompts, you need to be able to demonstrate your ability to self-reflect by conveying to the admissions committee what you learned, how an experience has helped your growth, and how it can benefit you as a physician. If you notice in the examples provided above, each entry includes a takeaway message which not only shows reflection, but also maturity and growth.

3. Perfect your spelling and grammar.

Your UCLA secondary essays have to be perfect as they are a direct reflection of who you are as a candidate. Mistakes indicate a lack of professionalism, a lack of interest, and therefore, a lack of suitability for the profession. It's essential to proofread your essays multiple times to ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. 

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University of California 2024-25 Essay Prompt Guide

Regular Decision: 

Regular Decision Deadline: Nov 30

University of California  2024-25 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 4 out of 8 essays, 350 words each.

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Oddball , Community , Activity

The UC application sounds like a riddle. Every student must write four essays, but choose from eight prompts. The rules may be unfamiliar, but the game is the same: tell admissions something they don’t know – and then do it three more times! The instructions counsel you to “select questions that are most relevant to your experience and that best reflect your individual circumstances,” and frankly, we couldn’t agree more. A strategic applicant will choose a constellation of the UC essay prompts that highlight vastly different aspects of their lives and personalities, leaving an admissions officer with a deep and complete picture of who they are. Don’t get hung up on trying to divine the questions admissions wants you to answer. In the end, they just want to get to know the real you, plus the application swears that “there is no advantage or disadvantage to choosing certain questions over others.” So follow your heart (!) and don’t let the fatigue get to you. Avoid robotically starting every answer by restating the question and be as anecdotal as possible. With each essay, your goal isn’t just to answer the question, but to tell a very short story about yourself. So, keep reading to get expert tips on how to write your UC essays!

1. Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.  

Things to consider: a leadership role can mean more than just a title. it can mean being a mentor to others, acting as the person in charge of a specific task, or taking the lead role in organizing an event or project. think about what you accomplished and what you learned from the experience. what were your responsibilities, did you lead a team how did your experience change your perspective on leading others did you help to resolve an important dispute at your school, church, in your community or an organization and your leadership role doesn’t necessarily have to be limited to school activities. for example, do you help out or take care of your family.

When answering this UC personal insight question, avoid the siren song of your resume. This question isn’t asking you for a list! Remember: it’s your job, as an applicant, to use every essay as an opportunity to reveal something new about yourself. Think of a moment when you were in a position where you worked really hard to help a group of people. Maybe you are always the one helping your younger siblings with their homework, and you struggled to find ways to engage your dyslexic younger brother with math. Maybe, as a camp counselor or church volunteer, you were in charge of choreographing and instructing a number for a group of seven-year-old hip hop dancers to perform. Perhaps, on a Habitat for Humanity school trip, you became the head cook, whipping up everything from pancakes to chicken fajitas while galvanizing a team of sous chefs to pitch in.  

The point is, try to isolate a single leadership moment, and bring it to life with vivid details. Describe where you were, what was happening around you, and what you were feeling. Discuss what challenges you faced, and what you ultimately learned from the experience. Don’t shy away from challenges or even failures, since these are exactly the sorts of character-building experiences that can demonstrate resilience and quick thinking.

2. Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.

Things to consider: what does creativity mean to you do you have a creative skill that is important to you what have you been able to do with that skill if you used creativity to solve a problem, what was your solution what are the steps you took to solve the problem, how does your creativity influence your decisions inside or outside the classroom does your creativity relate to your major or a future career.

You may think that this UC personal insight question was geared towards the artistically inclined, but take a closer look. The wording offers many potential definitions that veer away from traditional conceptions of creativity (and actually, it asks you for your personal definition!). Creativity lies in your outlook: seeing the opportunity to use one of your skills in a novel situation; looking at a problem from a new angle to find the solution that no one else could see. This question is, in reality, ideal for the more scientifically oriented to create a more well-rounded profile. Creative types, on the other hand, might want to proceed with caution since, really, every question is an opportunity to show off your talents and describe your artistic endeavors.

No matter who you are, though, remember this classic writing advice: show don’t tell. So, you claim that gardening, or Calculus, or painting is how you show your creative side. Okay. So, then immerse the reader in this activity with you . If you enjoy gardening, describe the plants, their qualities, and how you make your horticultural choices; are you drawn to the aesthetics or are you botanically inquisitive? Similarly, if your subject is Calculus, show the reader how you sat in your dad’s office for six hours straight trying to calculate Pi on a three dozen sheets of paper using red crayon.  If you love to paint, show the reader where you paint, what you paint, and why you paint, describing the colors, textures, materials—the essential process behind your art. Write descriptively so that the reader can feel as if he or she were experiencing your creative passion with you.

3. What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?  

Things to consider: if there’s a talent or skill that you’re proud of, this is the time to share it. you don’t necessarily have to be recognized or have received awards for your talent (although if you did and you want to talk about it, feel free to do so). why is this talent or skill meaningful to you, does the talent come naturally or have you worked hard to develop this skill or talent does your talent or skill allow you opportunities in or outside the classroom if so, what are they and how do they fit into your schedule.

If question 3 reminds you of question 2, you’re not alone. Often, when we talk about a talent or skill that we have honed over the course of a lifetime, we’re inclined to describe it as an art — a creative extension of who we are. So if you choose to respond to both of these UC personal insight questions, make sure to highlight distinct skills in each. 

The good news is: finding your subject should be easy! You just need to answer this question: what makes you proud? Think about the stories that your friends and family like to share about you. Think about moments when your hard work paid off. When you can zero in on an experience that makes your heart swell, you’ll be able to pinpoint your essential subject. If the memory of your first swim meet victory still makes you smile, draw us into your rigorous training schedule; describe the aspects of the sport that motivate you to wake up early and push yourself. What were your challenges? What has this experience taught you? This narrative should have a clear timeline that traces your growth from the past to the present and into the future. How do you plan to further develop your talent in college and/or after college? Show not only that you have grown, but that you will continue to grow as you take your first steps into adulthood.

4. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

Things to consider: an educational opportunity can be anything that has added value to your educational experience and better prepared you for college. for example, participation in an honors or academic enrichment program, or enrollment in an academy that’s geared toward an occupation or a major, or taking advanced courses that interest you — just to name a few. , if you choose to write about educational barriers you’ve faced, how did you overcome or strive to overcome them what personal characteristics or skills did you call on to overcome this challenge how did overcoming this barrier help shape who are you today.

This question is tricky because it has two parts. So first break the question down: You can write about either A.) How you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity OR B.) How you have worked to overcome an educational barrier. The “or” is key. You are not being asked to write about both parts of this question. Just write about one.

If you have participated in an afterschool program, internship, honors program, or a special class that was meaningful or inspiring to you, you will want to think about choosing option A.  Maybe it was an afterschool program for young, aspiring lawyers, or an advanced history class that you took at your local community college. This is an opportunity for you to showcase your ambition and highlight the kinds of challenges that engage and excite you. Beyond underscoring an academic interest, reflect on the personal qualities required for you to succeed. And remember to show, not tell! It will save you from accidentally humble-bragging your way through this assignment. 

Now, for option B. If you have worked to overcome a disability, struggled in school because you have a different background than your peers, suffered financial hardship, or something along those lines, you can choose to write about option B. To nail this tricky task, you will need to highlight not only the ways you struggled, but also the qualities that helped you succeed. How would you define yourself? Resilient? Hardworking? Brave? Zero in on a quality that resonates with you, and write targeted descriptions that bring it to life. (No one is going to believe you if you just write, “I am resilient,” and leave it at that.) Lastly, reflect on how this barrier shaped who you are today, and what skills you gained through facing this educational barrier.

5. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?

Things to consider: a challenge could be personal, or something you have faced in your community or school. why was the challenge significant to you this is a good opportunity to talk about any obstacles you’ve faced and what you’ve learned from the experience. did you have support from someone else or did you handle it alone, if you’re currently working your way through a challenge, what are you doing now, and does that affect different aspects of your life for example, ask yourself, “how has my life changed at home, at my school, with my friends or with my family”.

If you skipped question 4 or chose to write about option A, this question is a gift: a second chance to showcase your resilience in the face of obstacles. On the other hand, if you chose to write about option B in question 4, this might feel redundant. You are free to write about both, but again, proceed with caution and be sure to select a totally different challenge.

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: questions that ask you to describe a struggle or failure are really probing for stories about success. What pro-active steps did you take to address the problem at hand? Even if your solution didn’t work out perfectly, what did you learn? In facing this challenge, did you discover a courageous, creative, or hard-working side of yourself? Did you learn something valuable about yourself or others? Highlight the upside. How did this challenge shape who you are today? And how will the skills that you gained dealing with this challenge will help you in college and beyond?

6. Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom. 

Things to consider: many students have a passion for one specific academic subject area, something that they just can’t get enough of. if that applies to you, what have you done to further that interest discuss how your interest in the subject developed and describe any experience you have had inside and outside the classroom — such as volunteer work, internships, employment, summer programs, participation in student organizations and/or clubs — and what you have gained from your involvement., has your interest in the subject influenced you in choosing a major and/or future career have you been able to pursue coursework at a higher level in this subject (honors, ap, ib, college or university work) are you inspired to pursue this subject further at uc, and how might you do that.

If you’ve ever referred to yourself as a “nerd” or “geek”, this question is probably for you. To nail down a topic for this bad boy, you can work in two directions: (1) think about how your favorite academic subject has impacted your extracurricular pursuits, or (2) trace one of your favorite hobbies back to its origins in the classroom. Maybe your love of languages led you to take a job at a coffee shop frequented by multilingual tourists. Or perhaps your now-extensive coin collection was resurrected when you did a research project on ancient Roman currency. Whichever way you go about it, building a bridge between the scholarly and the personal lies at the heart of answering this prompt.

7. What have you done to make your school or your community a better place? 

Things to consider: think of community as a term that can encompass a group, team or a place —like your high school, hometown or home. you can define community as you see fit, just make sure you talk about your role in that community. was there a problem that you wanted to fix in your community, why were you inspired to act what did you learn from your effort how did your actions benefit others, the wider community or both did you work alone or with others to initiate change in your community.

Some backwards advice: When writing about community service, you should always start with yourself. Community service essays are cliché minefields. To avoid drifting into platitudes, you need to ground your writing in the specificity of your life. Don’t start with the action and end with what you learned. Instead, dig into your motivations. If you spent weeks petitioning your school community to raise the hourly wage for custodial staff, what prompted you to act? What assumptions did you have about income inequality and what did you learn about your community in the process? Or, maybe you weren’t too enthused about your community service. Maybe you participated in a soccer-team-mandated day of coaching a pee-wee team. What caused your skepticism? How did you turn the experience around?

Also, don’t just choose a topic that sounds impressive. “This year I acted as the co-chair of the Honors Society, presiding over twenty different cases.” If you didn’t, in fact, really enjoy Honors Society, write about a topic that means something to you instead. Think of a moment where you felt like you made a change in your local community. It can be something small; it does not have to be monumental, but it should mean a great deal to you. Describe the moment, using detail to bring it to life, and then reflect on what that experience taught you, and how you hope to continue these activities in the future.

8. Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

Things to consider: if there’s anything you want us to know about you, but didn’t find a question or place in the application to tell us, now’s your change. what have you not shared with us that will highlight a skill, talent, challenge or opportunity that you think will help us know you better, from your point of view, what do you feel makes you an excellent choice for uc don’t be afraid to brag a little..

This question is really just what it says it is—an open-ended, choose-your-own-adventure question.  Is there something that you really, really want to tell the UC admissions team that you feel makes you a strong and unique candidate that is not showcased in the other three personal insight questions? As with the other questions, whatever topic you choose, please use detail and description to bring this topic to life for the reader, and include thoughtful reflection on why this topic matters to you. Also, be sure to explain why your chosen topic makes you stand out as a strong candidate for the UC schools, since the question specifically asks you to do that!

We hope you enjoyed our UC application essay tips! Don’t hesitate to submit a contact form below if you’d like to work with an experienced College Essay Advisor on your drafts!

About Kat Stubing

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Frequently Asked Questions

Applicants must respond to four (4) out of the eight (8) Personal Insight Questions.

Each UC Personal Insight Question asks for a response of 350 words.

We recommend reading each prompt and jotting down a few ideas that come to mind. Next, review your notes and elaborate on each story. You’ll be able to tell rather quickly which of your stories have the most potential to transform into 350-word essays and reveal new, interesting information to admissions regarding your candidacy!

As with all application essays, admissions is hoping to read essays that help them to get to know the person behind the application data. They even say on their website , “There is no right or wrong way to answer these questions. It’s about getting to know your personality, background, interests and achievements in your own unique voice.”

No! You need to write a total of four (4) essays. These essays should have very little (if any) overlap.

The UC essays are quite important! They’re your only opportunity to speak to admissions in your own voice. The admissions committee will be reviewing dozens of applications each day, which means they are assessing a lot of data. These essays present an opportunity for you to humanize your application and stand out from the crowd.

Applicants will want to avoid silly grammar mistakes , repeating the prompt in their response, and telling rather than showing (e.g., saying you are determined without giving an example of a time you displayed determination).

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How to Get Into UCLA: Requirements & Acceptance Rate

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 5/21/24

Getting into UCLA requires patience, dedication, and initiative. If you want to maximize your chances of acceptance, continue reading for everything you need to know.

‍ UCLA is a public land-grant research university that was founded in 1892 as the southern branch of the California State Normal School. It is one of the US's most respected and competitive universities, informally known as a public Ivy . 

The school promotes a community spirit and looks for academically outstanding candidates with a drive to make a positive change in the world. If you want to learn how to gain admission to UCLA, our guide will provide everything you need to know to become a competitive candidate .

UCLA Acceptance Rate: 9.3%

The acceptance rate at UCLA is a low 9%. That means students must position themselves as competitive applicants to be one of the few students to gain admission.

UCLA Early Decision Acceptance Rate

UCLA does not have an early decision option. Applicants must submit a stellar regular decision application to be admitted.

How Hard Is It to Get Into UCLA?

With a mere 9.3% acceptance rate, it is extremely difficult to get into UCLA. That means out of 100 applicants, only nine students receive admission. The admission committee needs an accurate idea of who you are as a person, not just who you are in the classroom.

Take our interactive quiz below to find out how likely you are to get into UCLA .

UCLA Admission Statistics

Since UCLA’s admission process is competitive, it’s important to understand the average test scores to improve your chances of acceptance. As a competitive applicant, you must not just match these average scores, but exceed them to stand out .

UCLA Average GPA: 4.0

The average GPA students have at UCLA is 4.0 . Though this might seem difficult to achieve, focusing on your studies and preparing for tests properly will help you achieve an above-average GPA .

UCLA Average SAT: 1550

The average SAT score at UCLA is 1550. This score reflects both the Evidence-Based Reading & Writing and Mathematics section.

UCLA Average ACT: 32

UCLA students have an average composite score of 32. To stand out, applicants must meet this minimum score.

What Is UCLA Looking for in Applicants?

UCLA looks for candidates with a broad set of qualities, such as intellectual independence, responsibility, maturity, insight, leadership skills, motivation, initiative, and concern for others and the community. 

However, it's not enough to possess them; you have to show them in the best way possible. The application gives you several opportunities to showcase your strengths through the information you provide in the section "activities and awards," and through personal essays. 

If you want to hear what else Sarah had to say about UC schools’ expectations, take a look at this video:

Though it can be challenging to meet up to UCLA’s expectations, it’s not impossible. The application gives you several opportunities, like your extracurriculars and essays, to showcase your strengths. 

Knowing what UCLA values most can help you focus your efforts where they'll have the biggest impact. The following tables outline the academic and non-academic factors that UCLA considers, ranked by their importance in the application process:

Source : UCLA

Key Takeaways From UCLA's Common Data Set

UCLA's freshman admission decisions emphasize both academic and non-academic factors. While the rigor of the secondary school record, GPA, application essay, and recommendations are very important, class rank and standardized test scores are optional. UCLA also values first-generation status, racial/ethnic background, volunteer work, and work experience, over geographic and state residency.

‍UCLA Admission Requirements

The UCLA admissions committee considers many elements when making decisions about prospective students. They seek good grades, students with rich experience, and solid personal stories demonstrating positive characteristics. 

The full list of requirements is as follows:

• Meet the A-G subject requirements with a C or better in each course:
• History/Social Science: 2 years
• English: 4 years
• Mathematics: 3 years (4 years recommended)
• Laboratory Science: 2 years (3 years recommended)
• Language other than English: 2 years (3 years recommended)
• Visual and Performing Arts: 1 year
• College Preparatory Elective: 1 year
• Earn at least a 3.0 GPA in A-G courses taken in 10th and 11th grade
• Submit an application for admission during the filing period of November 1-30
• Answer the Personal Insight Questions in your application

The admissions committee uses a holistic review method. They carefully balance many factors and gain a complete sense of every candidate; they are a person, not just a student or a mere number. 

How to Apply to UCLA

To apply to UCLA, you'll need to use the University of California's online application . This is a standard application system for all nine UC system universities, allowing you to apply to several of them without redoing the whole application. However, you'll need to pay a separate application fee for every institution you decide to apply to.

Applying to UCLA is not as complicated as it may seem, but you'll need to be prepared and gather some documents before you start your application. You'll need the following: 

• Transcripts : You won't need to submit a copy of your transcripts until your application is reviewed and accepted, but you'll have to enter all your course names and grades exactly as they appear in it. 
• Citizenship status : If your country of citizenship is not the United States, you'll need to provide your immigration status and visa type.  
• Social Security Number : UCLA uses this if you're applying for financial aid and to match your application to things like test score reports or transcripts. 
• Annual income : This information is optional unless you apply for an application fee waiver or the Education Opportunity Program. You'll need to provide the last and current year's income for either you or your parents.
• California Statewide Student ID : This is optional and only for individuals who have completed their K-12 education at a California public school.
• Credit card to pay for the application fee : If you prefer, you can also pay by check or mail in your payment. The application fee is $70 for each UC campus and $80 for international and non-immigrant applicants. You can also apply for a need-based application fee waiver, as mentioned above.

Once you have these materials, you'll be ready to get started on your application. You'll need to create an account in the UC application system if you don't have one already.

UCLA Application Deadlines

The completed application can be submitted no earlier than Nov. 1 and no later than Nov. 30. After that date, the application portal will be closed, and you won't be able to edit or submit your application anymore. Don’t let the UCLA deadline for applications sneak up on you. 

Here are the UCLA application deadlines to save in your calendar:

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Into UCLA

For tips on how to get into UCLA, we first need a clear understanding of the admission review process, what the admissions committee considers for acceptance, and what they look for in prospective students.

UCLA states that : "Each year more students apply to UCLA than we can possibly admit...we focus on successful applicants who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, leadership, initiative and tenacity. They are the students who would contribute the most to the UCLA learning community. They are the students who would make the most of immersion in UCLA's dynamic learning environment."

UCLA uses faculty-approved criteria when reviewing every single application. The criteria are not in order, and none is more important than the other. 

Understand Selection Criteria

Understanding selection criteria is critical to getting into UCLA. This is what admissions committees look for.

1. Record of Achievement in College Preparatory Coursework

Good grades are essential, but more important are good grades in rigorous coursework if available to the student, such as Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate Higher Level (IB HL), college-level, or honors. Be sure to take high-level coursework, if available to you. 

2. Access to Opportunities

The admissions committee understands that not everyone has had the same access to resources and thus may not have had equal opportunities. 

Many aspects play a role in this, such as demographics, location, background, and schools. That's why the admissions committee considers your achievements based on potential opportunities. 

Reflect on anything that stepped in your way in your application as well, and explain how you kept going: obstacles don’t have to be a barrier to UCLA undergraduate admission. 

3. Challenges/Obstacles

How have the hardships and unusual circumstances you've encountered shaped you into the person you are today and helped you grow? 

The way you have responded, faced, and overcome challenges is significant to the admission committee, as it shows your maturity, determination, and resilience. Be prepared to talk about it in the personal insight responses. 

4. Possible Intellectual and Cultural Contributions 

Your past contributions in your high school career can signal there's a high chance you'll contribute in college as well. UCLA is looking for proactive individuals who can bring something to the table; show them what that is. 

They are looking for someone willing to participate in clubs and extracurricular activities. Having a passion and hobby outside the class is very important for the development of every student, not only academically but personally and professionally.

5. Academic Achievement in Enrichment Programs

These include UC programs and local or national programs. Time and depth of participation, academic progress, and program rigor are several ways UCLA measures achievement: pre-college summer programs are an excellent option. 

6. Other Achievements

Maybe you're an athlete, an artist, a leader in an organization, or are involved in community service - you name it. Whatever it is that you do distinctively, UCLA wants to know about it. 

Prioritize Coursework and Grades

You need to be a high-achiever to get into UCLA. If you're still a sophomore or even a junior in high school, plan to upgrade your coursework game soon if you haven't done so. 

Take advanced classes and raise your GPA. A perfect grade point average is not enough for this competitive school: your classes need to be challenging as well. Show them that you're not afraid of hard work and that you're willing to challenge yourself. 

Ace Standardized Tests

Ace your standardized tests. Good grades and high test scores will certainly strengthen your application. You must do well on the SAT or ACT ; otherwise, your application may not be at the top of the pile. However, this doesn’t mean that grades are all that matter; they are just a starting point. 

Write Exceptional Essays

An outstanding GPA is necessary, but grades alone won't get you accepted by themselves. To stand out and get into UCLA, you'll need to show your uniqueness through admissions essays . 

Take advantage of the specific prompts to demonstrate how you positively impact your community and how you make a difference. Focus on your leadership skills, how they have improved throughout high school, and how you show them.

Demonstrate Your Interest

Colleges want you to attend if you get accepted, so if UCLA is your first-choice school, don't forget to allude to that somewhere in your application or your essays. Schools try to accept students who will likely accept an offer of admission. If you demonstrate that you specifically want to attend UCLA, the odds might be more in your favor. 

Focus on Your Strengths

When writing college applications, it's tempting to show the admission committees how you excel and are interested in everything. If you fill out every single extracurricular entry on the application with mediocre activities, chances are you won't stand out from the crowd. 

Instead, focus on quality; what is that one thing that you do remarkably well? Stand out in what makes you you. Don't try to do "just fine" in everything or be like everyone else. 

Getting into UCLA is difficult, but not impossible. To get accepted, you'll need not only to be an exceptional student but show how you're outstanding outside the classroom.

UCLA Essay Prompts

UCLA requires applicants to answer four out of eight Personal Insight Questions (PIQs). These prompts are designed to help the admissions committee learn more about you beyond your grades and test scores. The questions cover a wide range of topics, from your leadership experiences to your creative side.

UCLA recommends that applicants select the most relevant questions to their experience that best reflect their circumstances. Each response is limited to 350 words, so you'll have to be concise. 

All questions are given equal consideration, so regardless of the questions you choose to respond to, you won't have any advantage or disadvantage in your application review process.

The UCLA Essay Prompts, which you should be able to find at the UC Application Site , are the following:  

• “Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time.
• Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem-solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistic, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.
• What would you say is your most remarkable talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time? 
• Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced. 
• Describe the most significant challenge you've faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement? 
• Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and outside of the classroom. 
• What have you done to make your school or your community a better place? 
• Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admission to the University of California?”

When writing your essays, it's essential to be authentic and specific. Use concrete examples and anecdotes to illustrate your points, rather than relying on generalizations. Show, don't tell, by providing vivid details that bring your experiences to life.

How to Write the UCLA Essays

The UC application essay prompts are very personal and require time, preparation, and focus. The following tips can help you write your essays and stand out as an outstanding candidate.

1. Start Early 

It may seem obvious, but many students underestimate how long it will take them to write the essays and focus on other aspects of the application before they even start them. Don't make this mistake; give yourself plenty of time to prepare, brainstorm, outline, write, and revise. 

2. Write From a First-Person Perspective

Using "I" and "my" statements in your essays helps the admissions committee get to know you and your personality. Don’t talk about yourself in the third person. 

3. Revise and Proofread

We can't stress this enough: revise, revise, and revise again. In the UCLA essays, you will not be evaluated on grammar, spelling, or sentence structure, but errors can negatively impact your application. It's essential that everything makes sense and is clear; the reader will appreciate it. 

4. Get Feedback 

Although the answers to the prompts are personal, others can offer precious feedback and suggestions. Consider seeking the help of an admissions consultant for professional feedback. 

Don’t just take our word for it! Here’s what Dayvon had to say about his experience with Quad Education:

5. Take Your Time

Answering such personal prompts can be mentally and emotionally exhausting. Don't try to get everything done in one night.  Expect the essays to be a bit time- and energy-consuming, so prepare accordingly.

UCLA Interview

Unlike other institutions, UCLA doesn't offer undergraduate admission interviews. Since interviews are not an option for UCLA undergraduate admission, your essays are your best chance to shine. You'll rely on them for admission, so ensure your essays are edited to perfection!

Other Schools Similar to UCLA

As you're exploring your options for college, it's important to consider a range of schools that match your interests and goals. Alongside UCLA, here are a few other schools you should think about adding to your list:

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into Compared to UCLA   ‍

Same Level Schools: Equally Hard to Get Into Compared to UCLA

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into Compared to UCLA

If you have more questions about how to get into UCLA, these FAQs can help. 

 1. Does UCLA Accept Transfer Credit?

Yes, UCLA accepts transfer credit from accredited institutions. The UCLA Registrar's Office and Undergraduate Admission evaluate coursework following UC-wide transfer guidelines.

2. Is UCLA an Ivy League School?

No, UCLA is not an Ivy League school . It's a prestigious public university often considered a " Public Ivy ."

3. Can I Get Into UCLA With a 3.5 GPA?

It's very difficult to get into UCLA with a 3.5 GPA. UCLA doesn't have a minimum GPA, but most admitted students have GPAs well above 3.5. Focus on strengthening your GPA if it's lower.

4. How Do You Stand Out in the UCLA Application Process?

To stand out in the application process, express your relevant personal qualities and explain the positive impact you will make at UCLA. Craft a compelling personal statement that highlights your achievements, challenges overcome, and goals for the future.

5. When Should You Prepare for UCLA?

Start preparing after your junior year, if not sooner. The application opens on August 1st, and the deadline is November 30th. Make sure to plan ahead to give yourself plenty of time, at least 

6. What Should You Do If You Get Rejected from UCLA?

If you’re rejected from UCLA, you can try to appeal your rejection, take a gap year, or accept an offer from another school. Keep in mind that UCLA reviews rejection appeals on a case-by-case basis. 

7. Does UCLA Consider Superscore for ACT or SAT?

No, UCLA does not superscore standardized test results. UCLA only considers your highest composite SAT and ACT scores from a single test date.

8. What Is the Lowest GPA Accepted to UCLA?

Demonstrated by 2% of accepted students, the lowest GPA at UCLA is 3.52. The majority of admitted students have GPAs well above 3.5.

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Personal insight questions

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Applying as a transfer

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• There is one required question you must answer.
• You must also answer 3 out of 7 additional questions.
• Each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words.
• Which three questions you choose to answer are up to you. However, you should select questions that are most relevant to your experience and that best reflect your individual circumstances.

Keep in mind

• All questions are equal: All questions are given equal consideration in the application review process, which means there is no advantage or disadvantage to choosing certain questions over others.
• There is no right or wrong way to answer these questions: It's about getting to know your personality, background, interests and achievements in your own unique voice.

Questions & guidance

Remember, the personal insight questions are just that; personal. Which means you should use our guidance for each question just as a suggestion in case you need help The important thing is expressing who you are, what matters to you and what you want to share with UC.

Required question

Please describe how you have prepared for your intended major, including your readiness to succeed in your upper-division courses once you enroll at the university. Things to consider: How did your interest in your major develop? Do you have any experience related to your major outside the classroom;such as volunteer work, internships and employment, or participation in student organizations and activities? If you haven't had experience in the field, consider including experience in the classroom. This may include working with faculty or doing research projects.

If you're applying to multiple campuses with a different major at each campus, think about approaching the topic from a broader perspective, or find a common thread among the majors you've chosen.

Choose to answer any three of the following seven questions:

1. Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time. Things to consider: A leadership role can mean more than just a title. It can mean being a mentor to others, acting as the person in charge of a specific task, or taking lead role in organizing an event or project. Think about your accomplishments and what you learned from the experience. What were your responsibilities? 

Did you lead a team? How did your experience change your perspective on leading others? Did you help to resolve an important dispute at your school, church in your community or an organization? And your leadership role doesn't necessarily have to be limited to school activities. For example, do you help out or take care of your family? 2. Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.   Things to consider: What does creativity mean to you? Do you have a creative skill that is important to you? What have you been able to do with that skill? If you used creativity to solve a problem, what was your solution? What are the steps you took to solve the problem?

How does your creativity influence your decisions inside or outside the classroom? Does your creativity relate to your major or a future career? 3. What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time? Things to consider: If there's a talent or skill that you're proud of, this is the time to share it. You don't necessarily have to be recognized or have received awards for your talent (although if you did and you want to talk about, feel free to do so). Why is this talent or skill meaningful to you?

Does the talent come naturally or have you worked hard to develop this skill or talent? Does your talent or skill allow you opportunities in or outside the classroom? If so, what are they and how do they fit into your schedule? 4. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced. Things to consider: An educational opportunity can be anything that has added value to your educational experience and better prepared you for college. For example, participation in an honors or academic enrichment program, or enrollment in an academy that's geared toward an occupation or a major, or taking advanced courses that interest you, just to name a few.

If you choose to write about educational barriers you've faced, how did you overcome or strive to overcome them? What personal characteristics or skills did you call on to overcome this challenge? How did overcoming this barrier help shape who you are today? 5. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement? Things to consider: A challenge could be personal, or something you have faced in your community or school. Why was the challenge significant to you? This is a good opportunity to talk about any obstacles you've faced and what you've learned from the experience. Did you have support from someone else or did you handle it alone?

If you're currently working your way through a challenge, what are you doing now, and does that affect different aspects of your life? For example, ask yourself, How has my life changed at home, at my school, with my friends, or with my family? 6. What have you done to make your school or your community a better place? Things to consider: Think of community as a term that can encompass a group, team or a place like your high school, hometown, or home. You can define community as you see fit, just make sure you talk about your role in that community. Was there a problem that you wanted to fix in your community?

Why were you inspired to act? What did you learn from your effort? How did your actions benefit others, the wider community or both? Did you work alone or with others to initiate change in your community? 7. Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California? Things to consider: If there's anything you want us to know about you, but didn't find a question or place in the application to tell us, now's your chance. What have you not shared with us that will highlight a skill, talent, challenge or opportunity that you think will help us know you better?

From your point of view, what do you feel makes you an excellent choice for UC? Don't be afraid to brag a little.

Writing tips

Start early..

Give yourself plenty of time for preparation, careful composition and revisions.

Write persuasively.

Making a list of accomplishments, activities, awards or work will lessen the impact of your words. Expand on a topic by using specific, concrete examples to support the points you want to make.

Use “I” statements.

Talk about yourself so that we can get to know your personality, talents, accomplishments and potential for success on a UC campus. Use “I” and “my” statements in your responses.

Proofread and edit.

Although you will not be evaluated on grammar, spelling or sentence structure, you should proofread your work and make sure your writing is clear. Grammatical and spelling errors can be distracting to the reader and get in the way of what you’re trying to communicate.

Solicit feedback.

Your answers should reflect your own ideas and be written by you alone, but others — family, teachers and friends—can offer valuable suggestions. Ask advice of whomever you like, but do not plagiarize from sources in print or online and do not use anyone's words, published or unpublished, but your own.

Copy and paste.

Once you are satisfied with your answers, save them in plain text (ASCII) and paste them into the space provided in the application. Proofread once more to make sure no odd characters or line breaks have appeared.

This is one of many pieces of information we consider in reviewing your application. Your responses can only add value to the application. An admission decision will not be based on this section alone.

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• 2024-2025 MD Medical School-Specific Discussions

2024-2025 UCLA (Geffen)

• Thread starter wysdoc
• Start date Apr 11, 2024

Plain-spoken Texan

• Apr 11, 2024

University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine Interview Feedback

Admissions advisor

• Jun 10, 2024

2024-2025 list of schools and their SJTs

Morningnight

Full member.

Hi all, current student at DGSOM here. Please let me know if I can help in any way. Time is limited at this moment, so I won't be able to read Personal Statements or secondary essays -- happy to answer your other questions below or via chat.  

• Jun 11, 2024

Morningnight said: Hi all, current student at DGSOM here. Please let me know if I can help in any way. Time is limited at this moment, so I won't be able to read Personal Statements or secondary essays -- happy to answer your other questions below or via chat. Click to expand...

dolephant said: Hi thanks for offering your help! 1) Do you know how much weightage UCLA places on PREview score? I took mine last year to get it over w and got a 6/9 but wondering if I should retake for a better score this cycle. 2) What is the global health equity pathway like? If I'm interested, is this something I indicate on the secondary application? Click to expand...

• Jun 12, 2024

Just submitted my application today! Super excited but very stressed, UCLA is my top choice!  

ClashRoyaleKing

Medical school applicant.

med400 said: Just submitted my application today! Super excited but very stressed, UCLA is my top choice! Click to expand...

• Jun 13, 2024

dolephant said: 1) Do you know how much weightage UCLA places on PREview score? I took mine last year to get it over w and got a 6/9 but wondering if I should retake for a better score this cycle. Click to expand...

dolephant said: 2) What is the global health equity pathway like? If I'm interested, is this something I indicate on the secondary application? Click to expand...

Morningnight said: Don't know much about this. Defer to @wysdoc Not personally involved in the global health pathway, but if that's an interest of yours, then definitely apply! You're eligible for $1000 of funding per year for global health-related activities if you are part of the pathway. Link for more info. Even if you don't commit to the global health pathway, there are still ways to be involved in global health whether through global health concentration, the MS1 selective, or a global health discovery year project. Click to expand...

dolephant said: without adding another year or two for a MPH degree along with the MD Click to expand...

• Jul 2, 2024

heavyfriend said: I def also don't want that weird **** they teach where obesity is caused by race or whatever. Click to expand...

iloveharvard

• Jul 3, 2024

When will UCLA start sending out secondary?  

iloveharvard said: When will UCLA start sending out secondary? Click to expand...

Thanks @WinSpin Last year they start sending out secondary on July 12  

• Jul 8, 2024

Anyone know how heavy they screen?  

sarcasmrules

• Jul 9, 2024

Everything has an 800 character limit 1. At the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, students are provided with curriculum and experiences enabling them to become an "Outstanding Physician, AND...," dedicating themselves to important societal missions. What missions do you want to embrace? What have you done toward your missions? 2. Respond to the following and indicate how these areas of experience have impacted your progress toward your future career goals in relation to becoming an "Outstanding Physician, AND..." . A-Describe your most unique leadership, entrepreneurial, or creative activity. B-Describe your most important volunteer work and why it was meaningful. C-Describe your most scholarly project (thesis, research or field of study in basic or clinical science or in the humanities) and provide the total number of hours, dates and advisor. 3. Describe how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted your pathway to medical school. Include any academic, personal, financial or professional barriers, as well as other relevant information. 4. Did you experience or are you anticipating time between graduating from college and matriculating into medical school? If you answered “Yes” to question 4, describe the activities in which you participated or are planning to participate. Examples include additional schooling, employment, or caring for a loved one. 5. Do you identify as being part of a group that has been marginalized (examples include, but are not limited to, LGBTQIA, disabilities, federally recognized tribe) in terms of access to education or healthcare? If you answered “Yes” to question 5, describe how this inequity has impacted you or your community and how educational disparity, health disparity and/or marginalization has impacted you and your community. 6. Are you re-applying to DGSOM? Global Heath Equity Pathway Application Questions 1 . Please describe why you are interested in the Global Health Equity Pathway and any experiences that have informed your decision to apply for this Pathway. 2. How do you think participation in the Pathway will contribute to your future career plans and career development? 3. What additional skills would you like to develop as part of the Pathway? What strengths do you currently have that may contribute to a global health or health equity project? (i.e., language, writing skills, advocacy work, monitoring and evaluation experience, data management/cleaning/analysis, website development, etc.) 4. What are the major challenges you might face as medical student working in global health or health equity? How might you overcome these challenges? 5. Optional question: Please let us know if you have a mentor or organization with whom you would be excited to work as part of the Pathway and why you would like to work with this individual and/or organization. Mentors and organizations may be affiliated with DGSOM/UCLA or may be pre-existing relationships you developed prior to medical school. Note that you are not expected to have a DGSOM mentor and/or partner organization identified prior to arrival at DGSOM. Urban Health Equity Pathway Questions 1. Please describe how your experience, community and family background impact your understanding of medically underserved/under-resourced communities. 2. Other than healthcare access, what are some of the most important health care issues confronting medically underserved/under-resourced and vulnerable communities? How would you address them? I excluded the yes/no questions with no follow-up essays. @wysdoc  

letmein528 said: Anyone know how heavy they screen? Click to expand...

sarcasmrules said: Focus on what you can control, not what you can't. Click to expand...

NocturnalSir3n

sarcasmrules said: 1. At the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, students are provided with curriculum and experiences enabling them to become an "Outstanding Physician, AND...," dedicating themselves to important societal missions. What missions do you want to embrace? What have you done toward your missions? (800 characters) 2. Respond to the following and indicate how these areas of experience have impacted your progress toward your future career goals in relation to becoming an "Outstanding Physician, AND..." . A-Describe your most unique leadership, entrepreneurial, or creative activity. (800 characters) B-Describe your most important volunteer work and why it was meaningful. (800 characters) C-Describe your most scholarly project (thesis, research or field of study in basic or clinical science or in the humanities) and provide the total number of hours, dates and advisor. (800 characters) 3. Describe how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted your pathway to medical school. Include any academic, personal, financial or professional barriers, as well as other relevant information. (800 characters) 4. Did you experience or are you anticipating time between graduating from college and matriculating into medical school? If you answered “Yes” to question 4, describe the activities in which you participated or are planning to participate. Examples include additional schooling, employment, or caring for a loved one. 5. Do you identify as being part of a group that has been marginalized (examples include, but are not limited to, LGBTQIA, disabilities, federally recognized tribe) in terms of access to education or healthcare? If you answered “Yes” to question 5, describe how this inequity has impacted you or your community and how educational disparity, health disparity and/or marginalization has impacted you and your community. (800 characters) 6. Are you re-applying to DGSOM? Global Heath Equity Pathway Application Questions 1 . Please describe why you are interested in the Global Health Equity Pathway and any experiences that have informed your decision to apply for this Pathway. 2. How do you think participation in the Pathway will contribute to your future career plans and career development? 3. What additional skills would you like to develop as part of the Pathway? What strengths do you currently have that may contribute to a global health or health equity project? (i.e., language, writing skills, advocacy work, monitoring and evaluation experience, data management/cleaning/analysis, website development, etc.) 4. What are the major challenges you might face as medical student working in global health or health equity? How might you overcome these challenges? 5. Optional question: Please let us know if you have a mentor or organization with whom you would be excited to work as part of the Pathway and why you would like to work with this individual and/or organization. Mentors and organizations may be affiliated with DGSOM/UCLA or may be pre-existing relationships you developed prior to medical school. Note that you are not expected to have a DGSOM mentor and/or partner organization identified prior to arrival at DGSOM. Urban Health Equity Pathway Questions 1. Please describe how your experience, community and family background impact your understanding of medically underserved/under-resourced communities. 2. Other than healthcare access, what are some of the most important health care issues confronting medically underserved/under-resourced and vulnerable communities? How would you address them? I excluded the yes/no questions with no follow-up essays. @wysdoc Click to expand...

NocturnalSir3n said: How long is the essay for if you are re-applicant? 800 characters or just a Y/N answer? Click to expand...

findingdory

sarcasmrules said: Everything has an 800 character limit 1. At the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, students are provided with curriculum and experiences enabling them to become an "Outstanding Physician, AND...," dedicating themselves to important societal missions. What missions do you want to embrace? What have you done toward your missions? 2. Respond to the following and indicate how these areas of experience have impacted your progress toward your future career goals in relation to becoming an "Outstanding Physician, AND..." . A-Describe your most unique leadership, entrepreneurial, or creative activity. B-Describe your most important volunteer work and why it was meaningful. C-Describe your most scholarly project (thesis, research or field of study in basic or clinical science or in the humanities) and provide the total number of hours, dates and advisor. 3. Describe how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted your pathway to medical school. Include any academic, personal, financial or professional barriers, as well as other relevant information. 4. Did you experience or are you anticipating time between graduating from college and matriculating into medical school? If you answered “Yes” to question 4, describe the activities in which you participated or are planning to participate. Examples include additional schooling, employment, or caring for a loved one. 5. Do you identify as being part of a group that has been marginalized (examples include, but are not limited to, LGBTQIA, disabilities, federally recognized tribe) in terms of access to education or healthcare? If you answered “Yes” to question 5, describe how this inequity has impacted you or your community and how educational disparity, health disparity and/or marginalization has impacted you and your community. 6. Are you re-applying to DGSOM? Global Heath Equity Pathway Application Questions 1 . Please describe why you are interested in the Global Health Equity Pathway and any experiences that have informed your decision to apply for this Pathway. 2. How do you think participation in the Pathway will contribute to your future career plans and career development? 3. What additional skills would you like to develop as part of the Pathway? What strengths do you currently have that may contribute to a global health or health equity project? (i.e., language, writing skills, advocacy work, monitoring and evaluation experience, data management/cleaning/analysis, website development, etc.) 4. What are the major challenges you might face as medical student working in global health or health equity? How might you overcome these challenges? 5. Optional question: Please let us know if you have a mentor or organization with whom you would be excited to work as part of the Pathway and why you would like to work with this individual and/or organization. Mentors and organizations may be affiliated with DGSOM/UCLA or may be pre-existing relationships you developed prior to medical school. Note that you are not expected to have a DGSOM mentor and/or partner organization identified prior to arrival at DGSOM. Urban Health Equity Pathway Questions 1. Please describe how your experience, community and family background impact your understanding of medically underserved/under-resourced communities. 2. Other than healthcare access, what are some of the most important health care issues confronting medically underserved/under-resourced and vulnerable communities? How would you address them? I excluded the yes/no questions with no follow-up essays. @wysdoc Click to expand...

dori2425 said: when did you receive a secondary? Click to expand...

hipporunner

• Jul 10, 2024

OOS didn't get a secondary 😭  

hipporunner said: OOS didn't get a secondary 😭 Click to expand...

Basalganglia4life

RunnerDad said: UCLA has sent only a handful of secondaries. Starting next week, there may be 30-40 sent out every day for the following 1-2 weeks. Click to expand...

Basalganglia4life said: only 30-40 a day? that doesnt sound right. ulca gets like 14000 applications. I dont think they screen that hard Click to expand...

jasonbourne125

• Jul 11, 2024

Got an email that my primary is received and under review for secondary invitation.  

jasonbourne125 said: Got an email that my primary is received and under review for secondary invitation. Click to expand...

TOcookiemonster

mango._.nichaaa

Chiknbiscuit2001.

For those that got the secondary, immediately are you IS?  

TOcookiemonster said: For those that got the secondary, immediately are you IS? Click to expand...

flimbo said: Me getting the primary received email and not the secondary. View attachment 389104 Click to expand...

Received the actual secondary OOS, LM 77 7/11 Received that "we're reviewing primaries" email yesterday  

+1 IS Secondary today. Does anyone know how many people get secondaries? Ive seen online numbers like 40-55% but no actual sources LOL  

skildpadde22

wysdoc said: 2024-2025 UCLA (Geffen) Secondary Essay Prompts (essays 800 characters Each) 1. At the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, students are provided with curriculum and experiences enabling them to become an "Outstanding Physician, AND...," dedicating themselves to important societal missions. What missions do you want to embrace? What have you done toward your missions? 2. Respond to the following and indicate how these areas of experience have impacted your progress toward your future career goals in relation to becoming an "Outstanding Physician, AND..." . A-Describe your most unique leadership, entrepreneurial, or creative activity. B-Describe your most important volunteer work and why it was meaningful. C-Describe your most scholarly project (thesis, research or field of study in basic or clinical science or in the humanities) and provide the total number of hours, dates and advisor. 3. Describe how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted your pathway to medical school. Include any academic, personal, financial or professional barriers, as well as other relevant information. 4. Did you experience or are you anticipating time between graduating from college and matriculating into medical school? Yes/No If you answered “Yes” to question 4, describe the activities in which you participated or are planning to participate. Examples include additional schooling, employment, or caring for a loved one. 5. Do you identify as being part of a group that has been marginalized (examples include, but are not limited to, LGBTQIA, disabilities, federally recognized tribe) in terms of access to education or healthcare? Yes/No If you answered “Yes” to question 5, describe how this inequity has impacted you or your community and how educational disparity, health disparity and/or marginalization has impacted you and your community. 6. Are you re-applying to DGSOM? Special Programs/Pathways, if applicable: Global Heath Equity Pathway Application Questions 1 . Please describe why you are interested in the Global Health Equity Pathway and any experiences that have informed your decision to apply for this Pathway. 2. How do you think participation in the Pathway will contribute to your future career plans and career development? 3. What additional skills would you like to develop as part of the Pathway? What strengths do you currently have that may contribute to a global health or health equity project? (i.e., language, writing skills, advocacy work, monitoring and evaluation experience, data management/cleaning/analysis, website development, etc.) 4. What are the major challenges you might face as medical student working in global health or health equity? How might you overcome these challenges? 5. Optional question: Please let us know if you have a mentor or organization with whom you would be excited to work as part of the Pathway and why you would like to work with this individual and/or organization. Mentors and organizations may be affiliated with DGSOM/UCLA or may be pre-existing relationships you developed prior to medical school. Note that you are not expected to have a DGSOM mentor and/or partner organization identified prior to arrival at DGSOM. Urban Health Equity Pathway Questions 1. Please describe how your experience, community and family background impact your understanding of medically underserved/under-resourced communities. 2. Other than healthcare access, what are some of the most important health care issues confronting medically underserved/under-resourced and vulnerable communities? How would you address them? Good luck to all applying! Interview Feedback: University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine Interview Feedback Review of University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine Interview Feedback. Get the latest information, opinions of fellow students, and LizzyM and SDN Rankings. www.studentdoctor.net Click to expand...

ecobio said: +1 IS Secondary today. Does anyone know how many people get secondaries? Ive seen online numbers like 40-55% but no actual sources LOL Click to expand...

stargirl2003

Bbybruuu1234.

+1 IS secondary!  

+1 INTL Secondary this morning! Was hoping it would be later... have a lot to get done at work in July and they have a 15 day time limit lol  

bbybruuu1234 said: +1 IS secondary! Click to expand...

MiddleEMed said: +1 INTL Secondary this morning! Was hoping it would be later... have a lot to get done at work in July and they have a 15 day time limit lol Click to expand...

dori2425 said: when did you guys receive the primary application confirmation email Click to expand...

neurogirl2003 said: congrats! do you mind sharing your stats? Click to expand...

premed13579

+1 IS  

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• Apr 13, 2024

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How To Tackle The Weirdest Supplemental Essay Prompts For This Application Cycle

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Writing the college essay

How do you write a letter to a friend that shows you’re a good candidate for the University of Pennsylvania? What reading list will help the Columbia University admissions committee understand your interdisciplinary interests? How can you convey your desire to attend Yale by inventing a course description for a topic you’re interested in studying?

These are the challenges students must overcome when writing their supplemental essays . Supplemental essays are a critical component of college applications—like the personal statement, they provide students with the opportunity to showcase their authentic voice and perspective beyond the quantitative elements of their applications. However, unlike the personal essay, supplemental essays allow colleges to read students’ responses to targeted prompts and evaluate their candidacy for their specific institution. For this reason, supplemental essay prompts are often abstract, requiring students to get creative, read between the lines, and ditch the traditional essay-writing format when crafting their responses.

While many schools simply want to know “why do you want to attend our school?” others break the mold, inviting students to think outside of the box and answer prompts that are original, head-scratching, or downright weird. This year, the following five colleges pushed students to get creative—if you’re struggling to rise to the challenge, here are some tips for tackling their unique prompts:

University of Chicago

Prompt: We’re all familiar with green-eyed envy or feeling blue, but what about being “caught purple-handed”? Or “tickled orange”? Give an old color-infused expression a new hue and tell us what it represents. – Inspired by Ramsey Bottorff, Class of 2026

What Makes it Unique: No discussion of unique supplemental essay prompts would be complete without mentioning the University of Chicago, a school notorious for its puzzling and original prompts (perhaps the most well-known of these has been the recurring prompt “Find x”). This prompt challenges you to invent a new color-based expression, encouraging both linguistic creativity and a deep dive into the emotional or cultural connotations of color. It’s a prompt that allows you to play with language, think abstractly, and show off your ability to forge connections between concepts that aren’t typically linked—all qualities that likewise demonstrate your preparedness for UChicago’s unique academic environment.

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How to Answer it: While it may be easy to get distracted by the open-ended nature of the prompt, remember that both the substance and structure of your response should give some insight into your personality, perspective, and characteristics. With this in mind, begin by considering the emotions, experiences, or ideas that most resonate with you. Then, use your imagination to consider how a specific color could represent that feeling or concept. Remember that the prompt is ultimately an opportunity to showcase your creativity and original way of looking at the world, so your explanation does not need to be unnecessarily deep or complex—if you have a playful personality, convey your playfulness in your response; if you are known for your sarcasm, consider how you can weave in your biting wit; if you are an amateur poet, consider how you might take inspiration from poetry as you write, or offer a response in the form of a poem.

The goal is to take a familiar concept and turn it into something new and meaningful through a creative lens. Use this essay to showcase your ability to think inventively and to draw surprising connections between language and life.

Harvard University

Prompt: Top 3 things your roommates might like to know about you.

What Makes it Unique: This prompt is unique in both form and substance—first, you only have 150 words to write about all 3 things. Consider using a form other than a traditional essay or short answer response, such as a bullet list or short letter. Additionally, note that the things your roommate might like to learn about you do not necessarily overlap with the things you would traditionally share with an admissions committee. The aim of the prompt is to get to know your quirks and foibles—who are you as a person and a friend? What distinguishes you outside of academics and accolades?

How to Answer it: First and foremost, feel free to get creative with your response to this prompt. While you are producing a supplemental essay and thus a professional piece of writing, the prompt invites you to share more personal qualities, and you should aim to demonstrate your unique characteristics in your own voice. Consider things such as: How would your friends describe you? What funny stories do your parents and siblings share that encapsulate your personality? Or, consider what someone might want to know about living with you: do you snore? Do you have a collection of vintage posters? Are you particularly fastidious? While these may seem like trivial things to mention, the true creativity is in how you connect these qualities to deeper truths about yourself—perhaps your sleepwalking is consistent with your reputation for being the first to raise your hand in class or speak up about a cause you’re passionate about. Perhaps your living conditions are a metaphor for how your brain works—though it looks like a mess to everyone else, you have a place for everything and know exactly where to find it. Whatever qualities you choose, embrace the opportunity to think outside of the box and showcase something that admissions officers won’t learn about anywhere else on your application.

University of Pennsylvania

Prompt: Write a short thank-you note to someone you have not yet thanked and would like to acknowledge.

What Makes it Unique: Breaking from the traditional essay format, this supplement invites you to write directly to a third party in the form of a 150-200 word long letter. The challenge in answering this distinct prompt is to remember that your letter should say as much about you, your unique qualities and what you value as it does about the recipient—all while not seeming overly boastful or contrived.

How to Answer it: As you select a recipient, consider the relationships that have been most formative in your high school experience—writing to someone who has played a large part in your story will allow the admissions committee some insight into your development and the meaningful relationships that guided you on your journey. Once you’ve identified the person, craft a thank-you note that is specific and heartfelt—unlike other essays, this prompt invites you to be sentimental and emotional, as long as doing so would authentically convey your feelings of gratitude. Describe the impact they’ve had on you, what you’ve learned from them, and how their influence has shaped your path. For example, if you’re thanking a teacher, don’t just say they helped you become a better student—explain how their encouragement gave you the confidence to pursue your passions. Keep the tone sincere and personal, avoid clichés and focus on the unique role this person has played in your life.

University of Notre Dame

Prompt: What compliment are you most proud of receiving, and why does it mean so much to you?

What Makes it Unique: This prompt is unique in that it invites students to share something about themselves by reflecting on someone else’s words in 50-100 words.

How to Answer it: The key to answering this prompt is to avoid focusing too much on the complement itself and instead focus on your response to receiving it and why it was so important to you. Note that this prompt is not an opportunity to brag about your achievements, but instead to showcase what truly matters to you. Select a compliment that truly speaks to who you are and what you value. It could be related to your character, work ethic, kindness, creativity, or any other quality that you hold in high regard. The compliment doesn’t have to be grand or come from someone with authority—it could be something small but significant that left a lasting impression on you, or it could have particular meaning for you because it came from someone you didn’t expect it to come from. Be brief in setting the stage and explaining the context of the compliment—what is most important is your reflection on its significance and how it shaped your understanding of yourself.

Stanford University

Prompt: List five things that are important to you.

What Makes it Unique: This prompt’s simplicity is what makes it so challenging. Stanford asks for a list, not an essay, which means you have very limited space (50 words) to convey something meaningful about yourself. Additionally, the prompt does not specify what these “things” must be—they could be a physical item, an idea, a concept, or even a pastime. Whatever you choose, these five items should add depth to your identity, values, and priorities.

How to Answer it: Start by brainstorming what matters most to you—these could be values, activities, people, places, or even abstract concepts. The key is to choose items or concepts that, when considered together, provide a comprehensive snapshot of who you are. For example, you might select something tangible and specific such as “an antique telescope gifted by my grandfather” alongside something conceptual such as “the willingness to admit when you’re wrong.” The beauty of this prompt is that it doesn’t require complex sentences or elaborate explanations—just a clear and honest reflection of what you hold dear. Be thoughtful in your selections, and use this prompt to showcase your creativity and core values.

While the supplemental essays should convey something meaningful about you, your values, and your unique qualifications for the university to which you are applying, the best essays are those that are playful, original, and unexpected. By starting early and taking the time to draft and revise their ideas, students can showcase their authentic personalities and distinguish themselves from other applicants through their supplemental essays.

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Our re-launched forecast model says: “Game on”

Our daily political update, featuring the stories that matter

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Our presidential forecast model , re-launched on Thursday , shows just how much Kamala Harris has transformed the race. On July 21st, the day Joe Biden withdrew, our model gave the president a 24% chance of re-election. Now we reckon that Ms Harris has a 52% chance of winning in November.

Ms Harris leads in national polls and in a number of swing-states. But such surveys are unreliable, especially this far out from the election. And because of Mr Biden’s withdrawal, this year there have been only three weeks of polling with Ms Harris and Donald Trump as the candidates. To compensate, our forecast combines polling with structural factors that influence voter decisions, such as the state of the economy. Read our explanation of how the model works.

Columbia University’s Minouche Shafik became the third Ivy League president to resign over the handling of student protests against the Gaza war . In April Ms Shafik authorised police to break up a pro-Palestinian camp on the university’s grounds. That month she was summoned to Congress to answer accusations that she tolerated antisemitism and denied free speech. The presidents of Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania had earlier resigned after a similar grilling.

Meanwhile a federal judge ruled that the University of California, Los Angeles cannot let protesters block Jewish students from campus. The preliminary injunction is the first ruling related to the pro-Palestinian protests that swept universities in the spring . The judge wrote that Jewish students’ exclusion from parts of UCLA ’s campus was “abhorrent to our constitutional guarantee of religious freedom”.

Google said that Iran-backed hackers had gained access to the personal email account of a “high-profile political consultant”. But the tech giant said it had succeeded in blocking “numerous” attempts by the group to access accounts associated with both Mr Biden’s and Mr Trump’s campaigns. Earlier the FBI confirmed it was investigating alleged hacking attempts against both campaigns.

Mr Trump promised that Americans’ incomes would “soar” if he were re-elected at a rally in North Carolina , but did not elaborate on how this might happen. Ms Harris is expected to flesh out her economic policies , so far light on detail, at her own event in the state on Friday. Earlier on Wednesday annual inflation was reported to have fallen to 2.9% in July, lower than analysts’ expectations.

Feeling grounded

During his previous presidential runs, Mr Trump took a haphazard approach to his ground game. This time, in Pennsylvania at least, his effort looks more formidable. With a close election in the state looking likely, the campaign is pledging to open an office in almost every county. Read our story on how the Trump campaign has become more professional.

A view from elsewhere

Tim Walz is the “embodiment of typical middle America”, wrote Katy Hill in the Sydney Morning Herald , an Australian newspaper. He looks like “he went to the hardware shop for a new garden hose one Saturday morning and picked up a VP nomination on the way home”. That’s a problem for Mr Trump. When he lashes out at Mr Walz he “punches his own voters”.

Figure of the day

Nearly half , the share of precincts in Dearborn, Michigan where Joe Biden was beaten in the primary by protest votes. Read our story on how the administration’s position on Israel’s war in Gaza is still causing headaches for his successor on the Democratic ticket.

Thursday : In 1968, afraid of potential unrest and an ongoing telephone strike, some Democrats argued for moving the convention from Chicago to which other city?

Wednesday : Who was the first presidential candidate to accept their party’s nomination in person at the convention?

See how to take part in the quiz at the bottom of this page.

If you enjoyed this week’s questions,  play Dateline ,  The Economist’ s history game.

—Mr Trump addresses attacks about his slurred speech during his “special” live interview with “very special” Elon Musk on Monday.

How to take part in the quiz: From Monday to Thursday we’ll quiz you on America. Email all your answers with your name and where you are from to [email protected] before 5pm New York time (10pm London time) on a Thursday. The weekly winner, chosen at random from those who give all the right answers, will be announced on this page on Fridays.

More from In brief

Ilhan Omar survives latest test for the “Squad”

Will Ilhan Omar survive her primary?

Harris’s San Francisco fundraising haul

Donald trump wants the attention back, vance attacks walz’s military record, harris introduces walz at raucous rally.

Ready to Apply? Here’s How.

Discover all the information you need below to get your UCLA application going. Learn more about the qualities and characteristics we’re looking for in our review process. Also, find out about important deadlines you won’t want to miss.

First-Years

You’ll be graduating from high school or you’ve already graduated but have yet to enroll in any college or university.

You graduated from high school and have completed some college-level coursework beyond the summer following graduation.

International

You’re in your final year of secondary school or you’ve already completed it but are not currently enrolled in any college or university. Your secondary credential will qualify/qualifies you to enter a university in your home country.

Application

The University of California (UC) application opens August 1 and the period of time to submit an application for admission is October 1–December 2 .

Important Dates

UC application opens

UC starts accepting applications

Last day to file UC applications

Decisions for most first-year applicants released

Decisions for most transfer applicants released

What We Look For

We value applicants who challenge themselves with a rigorous curriculum in high school or secondary school and whose personal stories, rich experiences and leadership skills enhance their perspective and potential contributions to our campus community.

Student Profiles

When reviewing applications, we consider a wide variety of factors. See how the primary academic factors, which are more easily quantifiable, help shape the profile of our students.

Personal Insight Questions

Additional Information

• First-Generation Students
• Students With Disabilities
• Undocumented Students
• Returning Students
• Transferring Credits
• Reporting Changes to Applications