Why Tufts?

Tufts opens doors by emphasizing opportunities spanning from research to internships; the university empowers students to broaden their learning and gain real experience in fields that matter to them. Opportunities such as the IR Internship Award encourage students who are enthralled by global affairs to participate in the complex political world and the Borghesani Memorial Prize enables students to pursue their passions and curiosities. By granting these options, Tufts molds a student who better understands their chosen field and is prepared for challenges after graduation. Tufts values an individual’s unique and diverse path by giving them keys to locked doors allowing students to discover themselves and their passions. The support that the Tufts community provides to students that take risks and explore their interests is what made me want to become a Jumbo. 

Why UT Austin?

Changing the world can mean many different things, but to me, changing the world means bettering the lives of others. From a young age, I’ve noticed the role models in my life achieve many great things, but I would argue that their greatest impacts on the world have been times they gave back to their communities. Seeing the importance of service left a significant impression on me, and guided me toward the path I’m on now. Although I am currently working on changing my community by establishing inclusive clubs, teaching ESL, and taking on leadership roles, I want to reach more people and magnify the impact. I want to achieve this by empowering those stuck in systems of oppression and actively working to give voices to minorities, women, and immigrants in the places that matter the most. These goals are ambitious, but my time at UT Austin will provide me with the tools and skills necessary to achieve these goals in my professional future.  

UT Austin considers individuals and invests in their futures; the incredible liberal arts program that I would be a part of would empower me to implement my knowledge in various fields to work towards my goals of achieving social justice. For instance, the Politics of Race and Ethnicity Lab, and the various courses it offers, would aid me in my journey of understanding the issues minorities across the US face and allow me to implement that knowledge to work on solutions in the future. The resources that UT would provide me to grow as a leader and scholar will prepare me to take on any challenges I face in the political world. 

Making your personal essay unique, just like you!

1. Writing a Personal Statement

2. Carefully read the prompt: Take time to understand the prompt! It’s important that you fully answer whatever is being asked of you.

3. Brainstorm: Reflect on your on your experiences to find the best way to tell your unique story. Think about the things you are passionate about, even if they seem mundane.

4. Be Yourself: Be genuine and write about the things you know. Let your voice shine through and don’t get caught up on trying to sound “fancy,” write how you are comfortable writing.

5. Tell a Story: Make your writing engaging and don’t be afraid to include imagery and other figurative language in your writing. By telling a story rather than just stating facts about yourself you can keep your reader engaged and give them insight into who you really are.

6. Edit and Revise: Make sure you edit and revise as you go! Take advantage of free editing apps such as Grammarly to avoid simple grammar mistakes. Try reading your essay aloud to make sure your sentences flow. 

7. Get Feedback: Let a few trusted people read your essay and give you feedback. At the same time, don’t overdo this, too many chefs in the kitchen will get you nowhere!