I had to write slightly different personal statements for each of the schools that I applied to when I was leaving high school to start my undergraduate degrees. Each university required specific themes, and so I tailored my essays to those. It's key to do exactly what the guidelines say - if they want a story of overcoming personal hardship, then don't give them a detailed account of travels abroad! What you need to consider is how your personal statement,...

N/A; Can't remember if there were any specific essays required for the colleges to which I applied. If there were, they pertained to past leadership experiences, innovations and ideas that I came up with, my dreams and aspirations, how I would use a college degree, and so on.

My favorite undergraduate course wasn't connected at all to my programs: I was studying for a B.S. in Forensic Science and a B.A. in History, and I decided to take a cultural anthropology course. I figured it'd be something different...

At the University of New Haven, 5 adjectives that can be used to describe the undergraduates there are driven, goal-oriented, open-minded, well-rounded, and worldly. But...

Undergraduate programs are looking for well rounded individuals, academically and personally. It's good to get involved during...

The reasons for declining a school can vary. Some people decline schools because they dislike the "vibe" or the location, and some decline schools based on whether their friends are/aren't going to them as well. While no one can make up your mind for you, it's important to set your priorities straight. Just because friends are/aren't going to a university...

At the end of you freshman year, perhaps by mid-sophomore year, you should have a pretty good idea where you want to take your education and your career. If you're looking at going into graduate school, start researching programs...

I chose to complete my undergraduate education at the University of New Haven for several reasons: 1. It was among the best programs in the country for Forensic Science (they have the Henry Lee Institute of Forensic Science, not to mention a very highly esteemed and well-qualified faculty!) 2. It was a 2-3 hour drive from home 3. There was an emphasis on internships,...

I chose schools to apply to based first on their program - did they have what I wanted, and would the structure of their programs give me the education and skills I needed for my intended career? After that, I narrowed it down by funding opportunities, overall school...

I applied for scholarships and financial aid, and I took out loans to cover anything that wasn't covered by the scholarships...

The best letters of recommendation for college applications come from teachers and people who really know you. Definitely DO NOT get your parents to write you letters - this makes it look like you're not independent and not responsible...