Common App Topic: Discuss an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, that marked your transition from childhood to adulthood within your culture, community, or family. On a warm August morning I sat shivering and shaking in the waiting room to my doctor’s office. I had my mother make the appointment but didn’t give her the reason; I’m not even sure I really knew the reason. I just knew something was wrong. The past five years had been...

UC Application Topic: Describe the world you come from — for example, your family, community or school — and tell us how your world has shaped your dreams and aspirations. Though I have grown up in a family and community with fairly diverse ideologies, the one thing that I have found is almost universally valued is service, whether it is through the military, volunteering, or philanthropy. These aspects of service have been prevalent in my life from birth; both my grandfathers and...

Topic: a book that has influenced you Like any proper member of my generation, I take Harry Potter very seriously. You could call me a connoisseur of all things Potter (of course, you could also call me obsessed, but I prefer the former). During hard times I find an escape in Rowling’s magical world and companionship in the characters who, despite the fantastical setting, are relatable and human with the same faults I struggle with. Though I would be...

My current plan after undergrad is to...

Computer Science related clubs/events are very popular here,...

I went out on a limb and took an upper division Gender and Women's Studies course (even though it's not my major) my first semester at...

Don't procrastinate! I did, and even though I was able to write good essays and turn everything in in...

I...

In addition to generally taking time off and relaxing, I used my high school summers...

I really appreciate that Berkeley balances a great reputation while maintaining a generally welcoming and friendly environment....

Berkeley is an incredible, bustling city with a fascinating and well-known modern history. In addition, the campus is in a very central location...

Since I'm an out of state student, my tuition is...

Ask early! Teachers/coaches/leaders have busy schedules and you should be respectful of that (especially if you want good letters). Ask credible people who you have built a good relationship ...