Feeling the cold steel of those unforgiving scissors against my scalp changed my perspective on life from that point on. I was raised in a Sikh family, having been raised on the core tenets of the religion. One of the most important ideals I held was the appreciation of myself, and my body. This manifests itself through Sikhs keeping their hair unshorn, to truly accept the gift of mortal life. To keep a Sikh boy’s hair neat, he must...

Question: American University is known for its politically active student body, where students engage in a variety of local, national, and global issues. Discuss an issue of importance to you and how you hope to become further involved with it as a member of the American University community Politics have always been an interest of mine, especially those of India. I receive great enjoyment from hearing my parents discuss Indian political issues. The one I always found most interesting was...

Many human beings throughout history have found inspiration and joy in literature and works of art. Is there a book, play, poem, movie, painting, music selection, or photograph that has been especially meaningful to you? Most people don't find much meaning in music, especially through contemporary albums. However, I have always found Neutral Milk Hotel's "In the Aeroplane Over the Sea" both a musical masterpiece and a heart-wrenching story about Anne Frank. Jeff Mangum announced shortly after the album's success...

In no more than 250 words, please tell us why BU is a good fit for you and what specifically has led you to apply for admission. My journey to Boston University was initially prompted long before my college application process, by the extreme enthusiasm of alumni who took every opportunity to praise BU. Friends and family credit this university as an institution which not only satisfies a student's thirst for knowledge, but also provides an individualized learning experience. Firstly, the...

Supreme Court Justice Louis D. Brandeis said, 'If we desire respect for the law, we must first make the law respectable.' Tell us about an unjust law (written or unwritten) that you believe should be broken. The French imposed an oppressive ban on publicly wearing religious symbols in school areas in 2004. This law has been hotly debated in the country, and is defended as a way to keep church and state separated. While this ideal is one I wholeheartedly...

What stands out to you about Union and what has inspired you to apply? (Limit: 150 words) My friend who is entering Union as a freshman explained his choice of schools very succinctly by merely saying, "It's in the name." I couldn't agree more. Union College has a magic about it that transforms this institution into a community of friendly peers, rather than a school of cutthroat competitors. After visiting, I envisioned myself as part of the Union family. This fosters...

The University of Rochester offers many rare advantages, building from our "Meliora" ("ever-better") motto that has inspired generations of scholars, professionals, and artists. Describe what's leading you to apply, and what kind of "Meliora" experiences you want to have here at Rochester and beyond. (250 words max) I first heard of Rochester University through the praise of my older brother, who is an alum of the school. He attributes his success in the medical field almost entirely to Rochester. I believe...

In my essay, I talked a lot about my cultural background. If you have any, I recommend to do as I did.

Right in the middle of Boston, urban...

Make friends with your teachers early on. Don't ask...

Talk about the location of the school a lot, mention...

Boston is a gorgeous town, with all the perks...

Energetic, Engaging,...