PROMPT: 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. I find it quite difficult to make it through a conversation without quoting someone. It’s more than just a bad habit; it’s an addiction. I even have a quotation about quotations by one of my favorite authors, John Green: ¨Perhaps our favorite quotations say more about us than the stories and people...

PROMPT: Please succinctly describe your leadership philosophy and how this philosophy impacts your interaction with others in the role(s) you listed above. What empowers you to lead is believing in others just as much, if not more, than you believe in yourself. Every one of my experiences working with people, of all ages and backgrounds, has demonstrated that there is no superiority within the human race, only differences in strengths and weaknesses. From teaching preschoolers the art of communication...

This was one of three essays for a leadership scholarship I was later awarded from UC Berkeley's Alumni Association.

Follow your gut. I listened too much to others'...

I did use a private adviser. He was...

I wanted a school that would push me...

For one interview, I was only asked one question and mostly...

Location is so important. I applied around the country, but I knew I...

Of course, make sure the teacher likes you and...

Berkeley is a hub...