I distinctly remember sitting in my AP Biology class, taught by Mr. Black, a seasoned science teacher who had a penchant for slipping a little bit of humor into his lessons. "Entropy," he said, "is the measure of disorder in a system. In nature, higher entropy - a larger amount of disorder - is preferred. So next time your parents ask you to clean your room, use entropy as an excuse." Throughout the classroom, you could hear a few muffled...

I began playing violin at five years old. Initially, I disliked the instrument's cacophonous sound which resulted from my lack of experience. However, as my skills developed, I started to master the instrument and the delicate balance required to create its signature harmonious melodies. Just as I have experienced through learning music, my daily performance requires a graceful balance - through its academic and extracurricular opportunities, the University of Pennsylvania will fulfill this need exceptionally. Though I originally intended to...

Ten seconds were left on the clock. "Pass!" I screamed. I was perfectly positioned for a wide open three-point shot. With a quick pass, the ball flew into my hands. The clock was running down; it seemed as if time was passing as rapidly as my heart rate was rising. With bent knees, I raised my arms and released the ball to the sound of the buzzer filling the room. I began playing basketball in third grade when my older...

It is important to build up relationships with teachers you intend to request recommendations from early on in high school. Participate actively in their classes and come see them...

Always start writing your essays early! I was one...

After I was waitlisted at Yale, I sent in a letter of continued...

During your summers in high school, try to do activities that are relevant to your desired field of study. For example, since I was...