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University of Virginia (UVA) Supplemental Essays 2023-24 Prompts & Advice

August 16, 2023

The University of Virginia is one of the handful of flagship public institutions in the United States that attract massive numbers of high-achieving applicants from around the country/globe each and every year. In the most recent admissions cycle, over 56,000 students applied (up 10% from the previous year) and only 16% were accepted. While becoming a Cavalier is challenging for a Virginia resident, out-of-staters and international applicants face an even tougher admissions gauntlet. You’ll likely need a straight A average (or very close) to get serious consideration at the 2023 version of UVA and an SAT in the 96th percentile (or better) doesn’t hurt either. And that brings us to today’s main topic- the UVA supplemental essays.

 (Want to learn more about How to Get Into the University of Virginia? Visit our blog entitled:  How to Get Into the University of Virginia: Admissions Data and Strategies  for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

With only one supplemental essay for the majority of applicants (you’ll only need to write more than one if applying to the School of Nursing or the Dance program), UVA’s supplemental section affords applicants the chance to illustrate what makes them uniquely qualified for admission. Below are the University of Virginia’s supplemental prompts for the 2023-24 admissions cycle along with our advice for composing winning essays.

2023-2024 UVA Supplemental Essay (All Applicants)

What about your individual background, perspective, or experience will serve as a source of strength for you or those around you at UVA? Feel free to write about any past experience or part of your background that has shaped your perspective and will be a source of strength, including but not limited to those related to your community, upbringing, educational environment, race, gender, or other aspects of your background that are important to you. (300 words)

This prompt asks you to not only share a particular life experience, element of your background, or perspective but also describe why that experience, element, or perspective will help you serve as a source of strength to either yourself or those around you. Essentially, it’s asking you to take your essay’s reflection one step further—you’ll need to communicate why the experience or element you’ve chosen is important to you as well as why/how you believe it will allow you to thrive at UVA or positively impact the UVA community.

UVA Supplemental Essays (Continued)

First, choose a key aspect of your experiences, background, or identity that reveals something deep and meaningful. (Although you could choose more than one, we’d advise against it, given that you only have 300 words in which to respond.) As you brainstorm, consider the following avenues:

• Your role in your family.
• A challenge you’ve faced.
• A formative experience or realization.
• Important aspects of your upbringing.
• Cultural, religious, community influence.
• Racial background.
• Sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

Second, you’ll need to explain how you’ll use what you’ve learned to persist through future personal challenges or strengthen others at UVA. Will your life experiences allow you to uplift those around you? Will your unique perspective enable you to connect more deeply with others? Lastly, will your background make it possible for you to advocate more effectively for specific populations? Alternatively, has your experience or background provided you with a perspective that will benefit and support you as you move on to college? If you connect with at least one of these questions, you’re headed in the right direction for this essay.

UVA Program-Specific Essays

School of nursing.

Describe a healthcare-related experience or another significant interaction that deepened your interest in studying nursing. (300 words)

“A nurse is not what you do, it is who you are.”

This quote from an anonymous source captures the idea that becoming a nurse is more of a calling than a profession you just stumble into. Nurses are willing to work long shifts in the service of others, be on the frontlines of a pandemic, and deal with life’s toughest challenges (e.g., suffering and death) on a regular basis. Many applicants share stories of caring for sick relatives or going through a tough medical episode themselves as inspiration for wanting to study nursing. This essay is a chance to show the admissions committee that you are a passionate and mature nursing candidate and that nursing is genuinely “who you are.”

Dance Program

Submit a short essay discussing your interest in dance as a practice and/or a form of scholarship. What roles have dance and movement played in your life thus far? What insights and connections have you made in your day-to-day and academic life through the practice and study of movement? What do you hope to explore further by participating in dance program courses upon entry to UVA? (275 words)

Essentially, UVA wants to understand how your participation in dance has impacted your life. How has it benefited, strengthened, and/or challenged you as a person? Moreover, they’d like to understand the connections you’ve made between dance and other academic subjects, if any—what interdisciplinary connections have you observed? How has your academic life been made richer by dance? Finally, in addition to how dance has already impacted you, UVA is looking for a brief discussion of what the future holds in regard to dance, and how you plan to pursue that future at UVA.

How important are the UVA supplemental essays?

The essays (both the Common App essay and the supplemental response(s)) are “important” to the UVA admissions committee. This places them in the same tier of importance as extracurricular activities and talent/ability. Standardized test scores are rated a notch below as “considered.” Read more about the importance of the UVA supplemental essays in the fabulous  Notes from Peabody blog .

At UVA, the rigor of your coursework, class rank, GPA, recommendations, character/personal qualities, and state residency status are the most important factors in the admissions process. However, application components like the supplemental essay can serve as a critical tie-breaker between similarly-credentialed applicants.

Want Personalized Essay Assistance with the UVA Supplemental Essays?

Are you are interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your UVA supplemental essays? We encourage you to get a quote  today.

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A licensed counselor and published researcher, Andrew's experience in the field of college admissions and transition spans two decades. He has previously served as a high school counselor, consultant and author for Kaplan Test Prep, and advisor to U.S. Congress, reporting on issues related to college admissions and financial aid.

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UVA Admission Essays Are Posted. Learn How to Write Your Best One

• By Rob Seal , [email protected]

Want to join these students on the Lawn at UVA? The key may be crafting an authentic, original admissions essay. (Photo by Sanjay Suchak, University Communications)

High school students looking to get a jump on joining the University of Virginia’s Class of 2023 got some big news recently: This year’s essay questions have been unveiled.

Associate Dean of Admission Jeannine Lalonde shared this year’s essay prompts, then took some time to explain why the essay remains an important part of the application process and shared some writing tips for prospective applicants.

“I think that it helps us get insight into the personality, voice and style of the student,” she said. “The rest of the application consists of forms and other people telling us about the student. This is their chance to talk directly to us.”

As for the writing, Lalonde said she typically shares three tips with high school students when it comes to putting together an application essay.

1.  Don’t overthink the topic

“The questions are broad because we want the students to go in whatever direction makes sense for them,” Lalonde said. “The topic is just a vehicle that the student uses. They should pick a topic that lets them be interesting and authentic in their writing.”

2. You don’t have to write like it’s a school essay.

“Don’t feel limited to the formulaic way that most students are taught to write for class,” she said. “This is a different sort of writing. The more standard format used in academic writing is fine for school and it’s great when writing under pressure. But prospective students should feel free to use whatever format makes sense for the message or story that they want to get across.”

3. It’s smart to get advice, but be authentic.

“It’d be foolish to submit an essay without having someone you trust take a look first and give feedback, but essays shouldn’t read like they were done by committee. And if you don’t like the advice someone gives, feel free to ignore it. When you submit it, it should feel good to you, and it should sound like you.”

Here’s a look at the essay prompts for the coming application season. Stay up with news about admission by following Lalonde’s blog, Notes From Peabody , or following her Twitter, where she’s @UVADeanJ.

2018-2019 First-Year Application Essay Questions 

1. We are looking for passionate students to join our diverse community of scholars, researchers, and artists. Answer the question that corresponds to the school/program to which you are applying in a half page or roughly 250 words.

• College of Arts and Sciences  - What work of art, music, science, mathematics, or literature has surprised, unsettled, or challenged you, and in what way?
• School of Engineering and Applied Sciences  - If you were given funding for a small engineering project that would make everyday life better for one friend or family member, what would you design?
• School of Architecture  - Describe an instance or place where you have been inspired by architecture or design.  
• School of Nursing  - School of Nursing applicants may have experience shadowing, volunteering, or working in a health care environment. Tell us about a health care-related experience or another significant interaction that deepened your interest in studying nursing.
• Kinesiology Program  - Discuss experiences that led you to choose the kinesiology major. 

2. Answer one of the following questions in a half page or roughly 250 words. 

• What’s your favorite word and why?
• We are a community with quirks, both in language and in traditions. Describe one of your quirks and why it is part of who you are.
• Student self-governance, which encourages student investment and initiative, is a hallmark of the UVA culture. In her fourth year at UVA, Laura Nelson was inspired to create Flash Seminars, one-time classes which facilitate high-energy discussion about thought-provoking topics outside of traditional coursework. If you created a Flash Seminar, what idea would you explore and why?
• UVA students paint messages on Beta Bridge when they want to share information with our community. What would you paint on Beta Bridge and why is this your message?

UVA students are charged with pushing the boundaries of knowledge to serve others and contribute to the common good. Give us an example of how you’ve used what you’ve learned to make a positive impact in another person’s life.

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July 12, 2018

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College Essays

Founded in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson, the University of Virginia boasts impressive academics, competitive sports team, and a long list of notable alumni. Though about 17,000 students attend UVA, the school has an admissions rate of 19%—meaning you'll have to work hard if you want to be a Cavalier.

One of the best ways to boost your chances of admissions is by writing great UVA essays as part of your application. In this article, we'll break down what the UVA essay prompts are and how you can write responses to each prompt that will make you stand out.

What Are the UVA Supplemental Essay Prompts?

In order to apply to UVA, you'll submit the Common Application . No matter which option you choose, you'll have to complete the UVA supplement, which includes three writing prompts.

The first prompt requires a response of about 100 words, and the other two recommend 50 words each. So these are definitely more short responses than full-length essays. For the first UVA supplement essay, you're required to write a response based on the school within UVA that you're applying to. For the second and third UVA writing supplements, you get to choose the topic that resonates most with you.

UVA Essay Prompts

Here are the UVA essay prompts for 2022-2023:

We are looking for passionate students to join our diverse community of scholars, researchers, and artists. Answer this question, which corresponds to the school/program you selected above in around 100 words.

• College of Arts and Sciences — If you could create a college course that all UVA students would take, what would it be about and why?
• School of Engineering and Applied Sciences — How will you use an engineering degree to change the world for the better?
• School of Architecture —Describe a significant experience that deepened your interest in studying in the School of Architecture.
• School of Nursing —Describe a health care-related experience or another significant interaction that deepened your interest in studying nursing.
• Kinesiology Program — Describe an experience that has deepened your interest in studying kinesiology.

Prompts #2 and #3

Answer one of the following questions in around 50 words. (You'll answer one question from this set for prompt 2 and a different question from this same set for prompt 3).

What's your favorite word and why?

We are a community with quirks, both in language and in traditions. Describe one of your quirks and why it is part of who you are.

UVA students paint messages on Beta Bridge when they want to share information with our community. What would you paint on Beta Bridge and why is this your message?

About what topic could you speak for an hour?

Take us to your happy place. 

You can wake up tomorrow and a skill you already have will become expert-level. What skill is that?

What is the last gift you gave someone that wasn't bought with money?

What website is the internet missing?

After a challenging experience, how do you recharge?

Tell us about a place you'd like to share with everyone, but also keep to yourself.

Tell us about a time when, faced with an opinion or perspective that differed from your own, you responded as an empathetic speaker or a generous listener.

UVA Essays, Analyzed

Looking for advice on how to write amazing UVA essays? Let's break down how to answer each prompt.

UVA Prompt #1

The instructions are the same for all of the first UVA essays:

" We are looking for passionate students to join our diverse community of scholars, researchers, and artists. Answer this question, which corresponds to the school/program you selected above in around 100 words ."

Let's look at how to answer each one.

College of Arts and Sciences— If you could create a college course that all UVA students would take, what would it be about and why?

This slightly unusual prompt lets you show UVA what knowledge you think every student there should know. The prompt isn't asking what you think would be an interesting or fun course necessarily, but a course that every UVA student should need to take and pass in order to graduate. To answer this prompt, you'll need to decide: what topic is important for every UVA student to think about and know before they graduate? 

You could take this in a lot of different directions. You might choose a practical topic, like Intro to Paying Taxes, Basic Home and Car Repairs, or Financial Planning 101. Certainly everybody will need to know that information sooner or later! You could also choose a more abstract topic that you think no one should graduate college without thinking critically about. Topics in this area could include living sustainably, understanding prejudice, or how to be a good communicator.

Whichever topic you choose, be sure to give a brief overview of what the course would cover and, most importantly, why you think every UVA student should take it. The topic you choose is less important than your reasoning behind it, so make sure you make a strong argument for why your course choice is valuable to the entire UVA community.

School of Engineering— How will you use an engineering degree to change the world for the better?

This prompt is all about you and your plans for the future. What specifically do you plan on doing as an engineer? UVA asks this to understand your goals and motivations for wanting to enroll in their School of Engineering.

When answering this prompt, you might feel pressured to write something really impressive, like designing a space shuttle that'll allow humans to travel to Mars or developing a cheap water purification system that can be distributed to the millions of people living without access to clean drinking water. And if you do have those goals for yourself, then go for it! 

However, if you have more modest goals, don't feel like you need to "dress them up" in order to impress UVA. Wanting to become an engineer so you can create safe buildings, help people  manage and protect their data, or even just build cool roller coasters that people enjoy are just as valid.

The key is to be honest and enthusiastic about your career goals. Let your passion for engineering and your excitement for your future plans shine through, and you'll be all set for this prompt.

School of Architecture—Describe a significant experience that deepened your interest in studying in the School of Architecture.

Inspiration comes in many forms —what's important for this prompt is to think about an experience that has inspired you. Also, keep in mind that this prompt isn't asking you about a specific building or project that you love. Instead, it wants you to tell a personal story about how architecture has inspired you...and how that inspiration led you to choose architecture as a major.

The trick for this essay prompt is connecting your experience to architecture . For example, maybe you wanted to be an architect because you visited the Academy of Sciences in California, and you thought their underground aquarium was amazing. That inspired you to want to learn to build structures that create that sense of awe in others.

Whatever you choose, you should be sincere about your inspiration. Anything that sounds trite will be really obvious to the admissions committee. They'll read thousands of applications about wanting to make the tallest building in the world—make yours sound different.

School of Nursing—Describe a health care-related experience or another significant interaction that deepened your interest in studying nursing.

Don't feel like you need to highlight a huge moment here—rather, focus on something that's significant to you even if that experience was small!

The key to this prompt is to make sure that you're highlighting something real that happened to you or someone important to you. The more personal you can make the experience, the better.

Saying something like "I want to solve cancer for everyone" is less impactful than saying that you have seen firsthand how cancer affected your grandmother. Nursing is a personal profession—lean into that for this essay.

Kinesiology Program— Describe an experience that has deepened your interest in studying kinesiology.

For this prompt, focus on one experiences and discuss it in detail. Don't give an entire overview of your history—describing something more fully will resonate more than trying to cram a lot of experiences into a relatively short essay.

Be honest about what drove you to kinesiology— don't write what you think the admissions committee wants to hear. Write what's true for you.

UVA Prompts #2 and #3

Again, for both prompts 2 and 3, you'll choose one prompt from the list below (so two different prompts total) and write a response of roughly 50 words each.

This is quite an eclectic list! Of the 11 prompts, you only need to answer two, so don't worry if you can't think of a good response to some or even most of the prompts. Don't worry about choosing the two "best" prompts either; UVA chose each of these prompts which means they think they're all valuable. Choose the two that speak to you the most and that you can answer in a way that lets UVA learn more about you as a person.

Also aim to choose two prompts that show different sides of yourself as opposed to two prompts where your answers are quite similar. That helps UVA get more of a look into who you are as a person, which is the entire point of the prompts.

To choose your prompts, go through the list and think about potential responses for each question. Some you might not come up with anything for, but hopefully for a few an answer will jump out at you. For example, do you have a passion for collecting Minnie Mouse figurines? Do you have to run four miles every single morning? Do you stop everything you're doing whenever the Red Sox are playing? Do your parents always make fun of you for pronouncing a word strangely? Then you might want to answer the question about quirks. 

Or maybe the prompt about students writing messages on the Beta Bridge speaks to you. As with the other prompts, the "why" is the most important part of this prompt. Whatever message you land on, make sure you have a good reason for it.

Avoid trite or cliched phrases, like "Be the change you wish to see in the world." The admissions committee will have seen thousands of these—and those words are probably already written on Beta Bridge. What do you have to say? What message is personal to you? What lesson have you learned that you specifically can communicate?

For whichever prompts you choose, be honest and reflective so that your response gives a window of insight into who you are and what matters to you. Another thing to note: 50 words is not very long at all! So keep things concise in order to stay within the word count.

How to Write UVA Essays

Here are some general tips for how to write UVA essays that will wow the committee.

Your UVA supplement essays are a chance to show the admissions committee who you are. Take that opportunity to flesh yourself out. You're not simply a collection of A's and B's printed on a transcript. You're a real person! Show that in your UVA essays.

#2: Feedback Is Cool; Plagiarism Is Not

It can be tempting to bounce essay ideas off your peers, parents, and teachers. That's fine! But don't rely on them too heavily. Your work should be your own—from the ideas to the execution. There's a fine line between receiving helpful feedback and using that feedback in a way that misrepresents your work and ability . Seek out help, but know that you have the first and final say.

#3: Play With Form

Your UVA essays don't have to follow the traditional five paragraph structure. UVA encourages you to play with form. That means you can submit a poem, if you want!

Take advantage of the freedom from structure to write in a way that feels authentic to you. If that means starting every sentence with the letter "E", then go for it! As long as your work is well-written and engaging, the form doesn't matter.

What's Next?

There are over 5,000 colleges in the United States—how can you possibly decide which to apply to? Using a college finder tool can help you sort through your options and find your ideal school without having to tour every single campus.

Once you've decided on some colleges or universities that you're interested in attending , our guide will help you narrow down your list to safeties, matches, and reach school.

Still not sure what you're looking for in a college? Read our articles on whether you should go to a school close to home and whether you should attend a large or small college .

Hayley Milliman is a former teacher turned writer who blogs about education, history, and technology. When she was a teacher, Hayley's students regularly scored in the 99th percentile thanks to her passion for making topics digestible and accessible. In addition to her work for PrepScholar, Hayley is the author of Museum Hack's Guide to History's Fiercest Females.

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How to Write Your Way into UVA

In college admissions, essays can serve as the tipping point. Here are some tips, pointers and actual essays that recently made the cut.

To build the 3,974-member Class of 2023, UVA admission deans culled through 40,880 applications. How big a role did the student essays play in the final decision? We asked an expert: Macy Lenox (Col ’94), associate dean of undergraduate admission. Here’s our conversation, edited and condensed.

Virginia Magazine: What carries the most weight in the final admission decision?

Lenox: What we find on the transcript is going to be the first and most important aspect of the application. [Then] we’re going to start looking at impact and contribution, and we get to that through extracurricular activities and teacher recommendations.

The essay is the one time we’re going to kind of sit back in our chair and give students the opportunity to talk to us. So they want to use that time wisely. The best essays are those that you read and you don’t just want to admit the student, you want to take them out for coffee once they get to Grounds.

With that said, will an extraordinary essay make the case for a student who is not qualified? The answer is no. One of my former colleagues used to say: It can heal the sick, but it can’t raise the dead.

Are any essay topics better than another?

There’s no such thing as a golden-ticket topic. What makes the essay is not the topic; it’s how you approach your topic and what it reveals about you.

We read a lot of essays about sports and that sort of thing. And I would say most of them are solid, and they’re grammatically correct, and there are no typos, and they’re well-organized, and they tell me something about a student. It’s going to be confirming that you can write an essay.

But this is a process where you want to stand out. And so it’s a process of not just writing a confirming essay but writing an elevating essay. Don’t tell me everything that soccer has taught you. Tell me the one thing that’s been truly transformative. Tell it to me as a story. Be descriptive. Be reflective.

Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable—you know, to talk about shortcomings or areas where you felt weak. We all have that. It’s perfectly fine to be normal. And at no point should you say, “Soccer taught me to be a leader.” That should emerge from your essay. You know: Show me, don’t tell me.

What’s one common mistake you see in essays?

So many try to be the person they think we want them to be. Stay in your lane, if you will. If you’re a funny person, write a funny essay. But if you’re not really known as a funny person, don’t write a funny essay. It’s probably not going to be funny. If you write about something you love, it’s probably going to come through.

We are comfortable with a 17-year-old voice. We typically know when we’re hearing a 40- or 50-year-old voice.

Any final piece of advice for essay-writing?

What we caution against is what we call death by committee—where you’ve had so many people contributing little pieces of an essay [that] all of a sudden you’ve got five different voices in your essay.

I definitely recommend you get other people to read your essay for advice. But when you hand it to them, the question you should ask is, “Does this sound like me?” You should never hand a pen or pencil to someone when you give them your essay. Just have them read it, and then sit down with them afterward and talk about it, and you take notes.

We say this all the time: If it dropped out of your backpack and fell on the cafeteria floor, your friend could pick it up and, even if your name wasn’t on it, know it was yours.

Enjoy meeting a few individuals from the Class of 2023. In response to writing prompts with word limits, they each submitted several admission essays (both short and long). The ones published here, lightly edited, reveal a bit of the unique selves they will bring with them to the University of Virginia this fall.

Living Out-of-the-Box

A bead of sweat trickled down my temple. A wave of excitement crashed over me. With nimble fingers I tore the wrapping paper off of the Christmas gift before me. This is it. I was sure the box contained the Razor scooter that I had wanted for months. I envisioned myself skating through the neighborhood, Skechers lighting up with each kick off the ground, low ponytail protruding from my hot pink helmet. I would rule my cul-de-sac.

When I opened the box and dug through mounds of packing peanuts, my eyes finally fell upon the treasure beneath. But I was immediately overcome with paralyzing disappointment. My short life flashed before my eyes. Something had gone very, very wrong at Santa’s workshop. The item within the box had one less wheel than it should have had. In fact, it was not a scooter at all, but a unicycle.

Disappointment faded into acceptance and ultimately enthusiasm as I imagined the possibilities. I could learn to juggle on one wheel. I could unicycle to school. I could join the circus. Abandoning my other Christmas presents, I descended to the basement, which would become my training ground for the next three frozen months. Hugging a wall, straddling the seat and lifting my feet onto the pedals, I was ready to ride. Yet I sat frozen, unsure of how to proceed. I had read the instructions, but they were remarkably uninstructive. Awkward minutes ticked by.

Eventually I built up the courage to rock back and forth. But I never made it forth; instead, the wheel shot out from under me and I landed hard on my face. Pride and dignity extinguished, yet undeterred, I mounted again. I fell again. From dawn till dusk for days on end, I wrestled with that wheel. Eventually I learned to balance, and then to pedal.

When the snow finally melted, I was riding at lightning speed around my cul-de-sac, to the awe of friends and neighbors astride their strangely complicated two-wheeled contraptions.

Yet simply learning to unicycle did not quench my insatiable desire to expand my skillset. Uni-juggling bored me, so I taught myself to play basketball atop the wheel. And thus I developed a habit of concocting unconventional combinations, which would give birth to my most epic brainchildren.

I began performing my trademark magic shows on the unicycle. Using my black top hat, I impersonated Abraham Lincoln on the unicycle, reciting the Gettysburg Address from memory. (I wondered if Honest Abe would have been able to unicycle; considering the length of his legs, I concluded not.) I taught myself to solve a Rubik’s cube on the unicycle, a feat that required utmost focus, unwavering balance, and a street with no potholes.

I began applying that out-of-the-box mentality to my life off the wheel. I fused my love for paradoxes and poetry to create poems that could be read forward and backward to convey two contradictory messages. I layered peanut butter, avocado, and bacon atop toast to create an amalgam of my favorite foods, in the process inventing the world’s most delicious and substantial open-faced sandwich.

Conquering the unicycle made me realize that conventions need to be challenged. Just because some cycles have two wheels does not make them better. And who says that poems can only be read top to bottom? I thrive kinesthetically, learning by doing, dedicating countless hours to master anything that excites me in the slightest. But I believe there is more to life than someone else’s instruction book. I prefer to write my own instructions, try the unconventional, and explore the unknown. I am a unicyclist amongst scooterers. I make my own path, usually on just one wheel.

—Elizabeth Kilgore , Madison, New Jersey

Zoom In, Focus, Get Into the Rhythm

Cap off, shutter on. I am ready. There is a rhythm to it. I stand alone with my camera, surrounded by hundreds of people. I slowly scan the field and the stands, prepared for the unexpected scenes; the irony encourages me. Friday nights offer so many opportunities to focus on one moment, on one frame, blurring out all else around me.

There is excitement in my voice and, I have been told, a notable glimmer in my eyes when I talk about those Friday nights under the lights. These evenings challenge and excite me as I zoom in on one moment at a time, one frame at a time, quickly changing perspective and refocusing as the evening unfolds.

What am I looking for? The quarterback’s nervous focus as he stares down his targets in the face of the impending blitz, drum majors attempting to maintain a determined expression among the cacophony of the halftime festivities, and parents concealing their nerves, seemingly willing the team to a touchdown with the pressure of their clasped hands alone. Through the 200 millimeters of my lens, I am searching for the special moments that prove these are more than just games for everyone in attendance.

Endpin out, rosin my bow, tuned correctly, I am ready. There is a rhythm to it. Staring at the eighth notes that dance across the marked up score, I wait for my cue, blurring out the hushed whispers from the audience. As I anticipate the moment the curtains open, allowing me to pull my bow against the string, I am reminded of last night’s football game. I remember the way I zoomed in on each face, story and play, and now place this focus into my performance. Measure upon measure, the perspectives of the notes change, following the tone of the play, and these instant adjustments exhilarate me.

I play out; I am in the dark, but I am lit up by my desire to move someone with a strong melody that I have rehearsed time after time in my living room, until calluses are built, and I can hear the melody in my sleep.

The music that sits before me and the firm hand of the conductor are the only things I take in. Through the weight of my bow and the articulation in my left hand, I am seeking to give flight to the imagination so that the audience will be as moved as the composer intended.

Cap and gown on, Pomp and Circumstance echoing throughout the room, IB diploma in hand, I am ready. I know the rhythm. I know the rhythm because I’ve practiced all of my life. Focus on what’s important. Zoom in on what is to come. Change perspective and refocus when needed. Blur out the background noise. Through the experiences I seek out, I am invigorated and motivated by the challenges that accompany each new endeavor.

—Khuyen Dinh, Fairfax Station, Virginia

Stories From the Porch Swing

The wooden porch swing at my grandfather’s old house was very talkative. It used to creak and moan, irritated with eight-year-old me for attempting to swing so high I could touch my bare feet to the porch ceiling. It hummed as my mother gently rocked back and forth, drinking coffee. It laughed along with my little sister who used to leap off the swing as it was still moving, landing on her hands and knees with a thud. It took part in the family conversations every Sunday, faintly squeaking behind the noise of us chatting and eating dinner outside on warm nights. But when my grandfather told his stories, the swing didn't make a sound.

I remember the evening I first fell in love with stories. Under the weight of both myself and my grandfather, the swing was completely silent, careful not to interrupt. Listening earnestly with my hands resting in my lap, I was silent as well. The robin that was usually chirping in the front yard was quiet for a minute. The white oak trees with their wise faces and twisted limbs stopped whispering to each other. The world was still and listening; I could hear only my grandfather’s voice and my own soft, measured breath.

My grandfather is a storyteller. He always says that it’s his innate ability to tell a story that makes him good at his job. Whether he’s standing in front of a packed, buzzing courtroom or simply sitting on his creaky porch swing, the world listens when my grandfather speaks. From an early age, this has always been what I admire most about him. He is intelligent and kind. He is fiercely strong-willed in the way he values and fights for social justice. But most of all, he knows how to make people listen. His words inspire action. From him, I developed a strong fascination with stories.

Some of my favorite stories to hear growing up were the ones about my dad’s childhood. Although we’d heard the story hundreds of times already, my siblings and I would beg my grandfather to tell us about when my dad accidentally got stuck in a tree. My grandfather would also tell us about his own childhood during the Great Depression, his time as a drafted soldier in the Vietnam War, and the long hours he worked as a graveyard shift police officer to pay for law school.

Stories can be found anywhere. They are catalysts of social change and vehicles of shared knowledge. I find them in the pages of my history textbook, in the spirited conversations of the lunchroom, and in every person I meet. My avidity for learning has bloomed from my obsession with stories. From the fall of the Romanov Dynasty to how Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin by accidentally leaving out a moldy petri dish, stories prompt my active, electrified engagement in school. They have given me an unbounded curiosity about our world.

By reading my favorite novels, traveling to unfamiliar places, and even just talking to the stranger in line at the grocery store, I continue in my search for stories. That quiet evening on my grandfather’s porch swing unleashed within me a deep-seated passion for stories that has seeped into and invigorated my intellectual pursuits.

—Audrey Hicks, Fairfax, Virginia

One Small Touch 

“J’adoube,” I said, adjusting the placement of my queen to the center of her square.

My opponent looked at me with a puzzled gaze. As the game continued, there came a second time where saying j’adoube became necessary. But this time, after again seeing the puzzled look on my opponent’s face, I said, “It means the same thing as adjust.” This time it seemed to click in his head.

Since I began playing chess competitively, I have heard the word used less and less. J’adoube is announced by a player who is going to touch a piece to adjust its positioning but has no intention of moving it from its square. This one word changes the meaning of touching a piece. Without uttering j’adoube , a player must move the piece they touch, unless moving that piece would result in an illegal move.

The word is not something that you will find in a rulebook or necessarily learn from beginner chess lessons. I imagine that it has developed over time from chess players wanting to associate the beauty of perfectly aligned pieces on the board with the beauty of the French language.

When I hear the word whispered in my direction, I smile because to me it sounds so much better than “adjust.” J’adoube cannot win games, but by saying it, you can prevent yourself from making ill-advised moves. Like in life, saying j’adoube can neither fix the past nor change the future, but it does allow you to control the present.

—Kyle Goldrick, Jamison, Pennsylvania

Sea Creature #3

“Hi, my name is Marin and I’m a piece of coral.” These were my dignity’s last words as I realized I was cast in the ensemble of my high school’s production of The Little Mermaid . In spite of my consistency and experience within the department, I was a lowly sea-creature: a fish on roller blades. As rehearsals commenced, I attempted to decipher a complex emotion: jealousy.

My best friend of 11 years obtained a highly coveted principal role following her maiden high school audition, leaving me with the role of Sea Creature #3. I looked simultaneously something akin to a prepubescent middle school boy and an ’80s jazzercise instructor. I was mercilessly clad in a deep blue unitard, complete with unflattering biker shorts, neon pink fishnet crop top, and swim cap. My insecurities were further manifested in a pair of rollerblades.

My best friend, the mermaid I felt so inferior to, was adorned in a bejeweled crown, which seemed only to further emphasize our distance apart in the hierarchical class system that is high school theater. She was oceanic royalty, and I was a plebian parrot fish. I stood sheepishly in my unitard, in my swim cap, and in the most intense state of jealousy I have ever experienced. My humiliation was complete as I stumbled across the stage, fish puppet in hand, in front of my friends and family, while enviously watching her glide gracefully from stage right to stage left, singing angelic melodies.

Alongside me in this endeavor was someone completely unexpected: a cheeky, cherubic third grader who was cast not in the principal cameo role he’d hoped for, but as a humble sea snail. Wanting to make the most of a mediocre situation, I became the unofficial cast child wrangler for the duration of the show. Rhett and I spent copious amounts of time together doing schoolwork, eating various snack foods, and learning to rollerblade. For safety's sake, I chased him through the most remote stretches of Fairfax High School as he cleared flights of stairs, careened around corners and flung himself down steep ramps in his little plastic red and black roller blades.

We got along swimmingly. Our shared experience connected us. We were inseparable. Rhett was not open to forming friendships with cast members who treated him with condescension. I, however, proved to be a completely honest and consistent friend. I remained by his side, a third grader's loyal sidekick for the entirety of the show. I helped him with his schoolwork and he helped me forget my jealousy. I kept him entertained and he provided me with positive experiences to reflect back on. The attitude he helped me to embrace gave me reason to act with integrity: I assembled a nervous cast for a prayer circle before each performance, comforted mermaids in crisis, and even stepped away from myself to help the former object of my jealousy when she was struggling.

In the end, our small group of fish-wielding jazzercise instructors went on stage and took advantage of each and every moment we had. The tangible evidence that bad situations can reap surprising rewards came in the form of a D.C. area Cappie award for my contribution to our department and our show. My situation went from mildly humiliating to outwardly validating. The jealousy I had toward my friend for her seemingly endless opportunities dissipated daily as I discovered the sometimes hidden blessings found in humility, humor, friendship, and community. My unspoken fear that my value or worth was somehow in part determined by the role I secured in a show was completely and utterly demolished by an extremely sassy, blond, nine-year-old boy, dressed as a sea snail.

—Marin Bronaugh, Fairfax, Virginia

My Mom’s Gifts to Me

The scene is ingrained into my memory. It was 2nd grade, and my teacher asked all of the students in my homeroom to put up pictures of their family on the bulletin board. Kids scrambled to the front of the room to stick on their photograph. I was at the front of the pack, eager to show everyone my picture of my mom and me holding a parrot in Hawaii three years prior.

“Kendall, why don’t you have a dad?” a bewildered Sydney asked, almost skeptical.

Everyone froze and turned to me, expecting an answer. The teacher tried to lessen my humiliation saying, “Sydney, that wasn’t nice,” and some other impotent reprimands, but the damage was done. I looked at the other kids’ photos. Each of them the same: a mother, one kid, two kids, or three, and a father. A part of me was shattered. I believed that the absence of a father would deprive me of something; my life would never compare to kids who lived with two parents.

For a long time, that mindset remained. I was ashamed of having a single mother, so I went out of my way to act like my father was in my life. Talking to friends about “my parents” and fabricating stories about my dad were coping mechanisms I used to fit in. Attending independent schools for most of my life, it seemed like everyone’s family was intact and lived in mansions, so the possibility of people knowing that I never saw my dad was terrifying. It would be something else to set me apart.

Everything changed once I moved from California to Virginia, where I had no family or friends. This forced me to spend more time with my mom, giving me a new perspective on my situation. I began to understand the sacrifices my mom made, raising me on her own, providing me with the best of everything: education, opportunities, experiences, anything a child living with two parents would have.

I now acknowledge the privilege I’ve had growing up with a mother like her. She made a successful career for herself by promoting equity and diversity in education and has passed on her beliefs that all people are worthy of respect. This influenced my love of experiencing new people, cultures, and places. So far, I have traveled to Haiti on a service trip, and France on a cultural exchange. While both experiences had their own challenges, they contributed to my understanding of cultural competence and showed me the value of forming relationships with others abroad.

My mom also instilled in me a dignified work ethic that shows through my academics, athletics, and extracurriculars. I try my best in everything I do, mimicking the strength and perseverance she had while attending college without guidance from anyone. If that means having a softball game at 5pm, tutoring elementary school kids at 7pm, then studying and homework afterward, I do it all with my best effort.

One of my mother’s qualities that I admire most is the support and acceptance she continually shows me. Regardless of our differences or circumstances, I always know that my mom respects my individuality, something that, for many of my peers, is not true. And in turn, I try to treat others with the same amount of respect and compassion. Whether that translates as talking to a patient in distress while volunteering at my local hospital or simply comforting a friend during a difficult time, sympathy and understanding are traits that hold the highest value in my life.

The trust I’ve formed with my mom is something I doubt I would have experienced with my dad. She has taught me everything about what it takes to be a strong black woman.

If I could answer Sydney's question today, my response would be, “Because my single mom is able to fulfill the role better than any father could.”

—Kendall Davis, Arlington, Virginia

Transfixed by My Toaster

I think that the shower has been the birthplace of more innovative ideas than any other location. Maybe it’s the alone time, the aromatherapy, the water washing off the day, or the ability to watch your troubles go down the drain and step out brand new. I don’t know. But I wish I did. Because it is these very moments, times when a light clicks on or an apple falls on your head, that fascinate me. Even the smallest things, the seemingly insignificant details of our reality, carry with them a story that changed the world.

One day, I was making toast, a pretty mundane part of my day. But as I was staring at my toaster, trying to get the bread to the right degree of toastiness, I became captivated by the beauty of the machine that has become a certainty in my life. For months, I had a tab open on my phone about Charles Strite, the inventor of the pop-up toaster, and would read little bits and pieces about him any time I could. All the man wanted was an evenly cooked piece of toast and that quest, distant as it may seem, led him to create something that I now expect in my everyday life.

That’s magical to me. Every step in his life, every burnt piece of toast that he had to endure, led him to that idea. One defining piece of Strite’s life has become a part of so many others. The simple device that I am accustomed to was the result of a lifetime of experience. We may take his idea for granted, but I find it amazing that he managed to change the world in his own way.

Many creations that are now a fact of life were once brave new inventions. So what will be next? Could my writing down the simple phrase “snack pants” in the notes on my phone a little after midnight change the fashion industry forever? Could my restaurant idea “the Porque-sadilla” (a place with Mexican food and trivia) revolutionize the dining experience? Probably not. But one day some goofy idea might develop into something greater: my origin story. And every step that I took, every shower, every note, every essay that I wrote would have led me to that point. Because this is the one story that I get to live, not just read about.

And that’s what fascinates me. The people around me may seem distant at times, but they are each the center of their own story. You never know which one of the people you pass in the hallway or drive past on a busy road is going to change the world. It could be you or the person sitting next to you.

So every time that I see a small invention, I get caught up in the origin story and the beauty of the creation, and how the lives of others become part of our own, and how they connect us and bridge any physical or emotional gaps that arise, and all of this comes and washes over me simply because I wanted a piece of toast.

And so I thank Charles Strite and the inventors, pioneers, iPhone note-takers, and shower-thinkers. I hope one day to be among their ranks, a piece of their stories as they are a piece of mine.

(P.S. I have dibs on both “snack pants” and “the Porque-sadilla,” so don’t get any ideas.)

—Laura Boyle, Falls Church, Virginia

What Would I Paint on Beta Bridge?

“Write your story.” The phrase is printed across the face of a notebook stacked somewhere in my room. It materializes in my mind every time I read a different account of the same historical event. I mutter it under my breath for every word, every page I write of the novel I someday hope to publish. I would paint this phrase on Beta Bridge because I believe the most powerful actions start as words and I know the most intriguing adventures begin with a story.

To write your story is to hold your life in your hands. Your story is wholly yours, but it may impact your community and beyond, in more ways than you can imagine. The #MeToo survivors wrote their stories. The New York Times published them, and then the world reacted.

It’s important to first tell your story before you tell the story of others, and it’s even more pressing to write your story before someone else can write it for you. Winston Churchill once said, “History is written by the victors.” He was right. Someone will always attempt to distort a narrative; there will forever be stories written by liars, and sometimes those stories filled with half-truths will win. But they only have that chance at victory if the real story never makes it onto the page, let alone to the printer.

Write your story, even when the only light that hasn’t flickered out is the brightness from your computer screen.

Write your story, even when you think no one else will read it. Write your story, even when it’s only three words painted across a bridge on a university campus. Write your story, before someone else does.

—Alexa Clark, Vienna, Virginia

I laugh to myself all the time.

My sisters say it’s always the same thing: the near-silent, short puffs of exhalation, the shake of the shoulders, the slight rock back and forth. Realizing that no one else shares my amusement or (in some cases) even noticed that I attempted a joke, I’ll chortle all alone.

I am past wanting others to laugh with me. Quite frankly, it makes me sad how the best-received wisecracking almost always comes at someone else’s expense. I have noticed that it simply is not “cool” to find the joke about the hydrogen atom who was positive it lost an electron as entertaining as an unflattering imitation of a blundering freshman’s faux pas. I have noticed it, and I don’t like it.

I don’t want to renounce my own unique sense of humor simply because my jokes aren’t of the trendy sort.

Why must we laugh at the girl who tripped over her hand-me-down, glaringly yellow shoes on the way in? Who cares if the boy in the front row misspelled “February” and then proceeded to badly mispronounce it? Why can’t they all laugh, instead, at the grammar joke that caused so many in the classroom to collectively roll their eyes?

I want to laugh at the harmless puns and one-liners in life, the ones that make people whoop with laughter without grimacing on the inside. Even if that means looking a tad crazy as I laugh absurdly and all alone.

—Sophia Yi, Derwood, Maryland

Hi, I’m Zainab

Tugging at my shirt sleeves, I shuffle through the empty hallways of the new school. The butterflies in my stomach feel more like wasps, for my anxiety is less a nervous excitement, and more a dreaded anticipation of what’s to come. My backpack is filled with freshly sharpened pencils, new notebooks, and my mom has packed my favorite snack. I am more than prepared to thrive at this new school, but I can’t seem to get past this crushing worry: who will I sit next to at lunchtime?

The teacher pushes open the 4th grade classroom door, and all eyes immediately turn to me. She introduces me to the class, and I suddenly develop a great fascination with my fingernails. I avoid looking directly at any of the students and I quietly seat myself near the back. Midway through the year, all the other students have already created their social circles. Out of curiosity, a couple students approach me and ask for my name. Hesitantly, I introduce myself, “Hi. I’m the new kid.”

Being in a new, unfamiliar place will eventually become a normal situation for me after having changed schools nine times by the end of senior year. It would be incorrect to say that I enjoyed uprooting myself constantly, but it would also be incorrect to say that I never learned anything along the way.

From New Mexico, I learned about the magic in color. Our insufferably quaint town was filled with artwork and culture. The intricate tiles and paintings of local artisans in the Santa Fe Art Galleries, and the swirl of color and light in the sky at sunrise during the Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Festival inspired me to surround myself with color and create art wherever I went.

From Massachusetts, I learned how hard my parents worked to ensure that my brother and I were happy. My mother would frequently come home with bags overflowing with books from the local library to keep us occupied when our one bedroom basement apartment was buried in snow. My love for reading can be traced back to her. She could turn our apartment into a wizard’s lair or a fairy forest during the cold, snowy days.

From Texas, I learned about the fragility of human life. My friend’s dad was battling with cancer, and her family became a big part of our life since they needed our support. He passed away on Christmas Eve, and while the world continued on and most people woke up to presents and holiday festivities, my friend woke up to the reality of her father’s death.

From Virginia, I learned about the importance of family. My social life was nonexistent, so instead of going out on the weekends, I stayed home for movie nights, thought-provoking conversations with my dad, and teaching my little sister her first nursery rhymes. By becoming more present in my family’s daily lives, I was able to escape my own self-centered bubble.

All these places collectively taught me two things. First, never knowing if this is the last time you ever see someone or go somewhere, you begin to appreciate everything more, including the little things in life. Second, I learned how to be adaptable and how to relate to others. In the early moves, I tended to dwell on everything I’d left behind, never stopping to reflect on what I’d gained. I’ve picked up flavors of people and places from all around the country, seeing that there is beauty in change, even if it took me more than a few moves to see it.

So, when I moved to my new school last year, instead of immediately labeling myself as “the new kid,” I started with a smile and “Hi! I’m Zainab. Is anyone sitting here?”

—Zainab Faisal, Ashburn, Virginia

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University of Virginia Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

By Eric Eng

A vital part of succeeding in the University of Virginia’s 2023-2024 application season is doing well on its supplemental essays. These essays are not just formal requirements; they are ways for the admissions committee to learn about your personality, goals, and how well you fit into the university.

In this blog, we will go into detail about the University of Virginia’s supplemental essays. We’ll give you tips and advice on how to write responses that reflect your unique story, whether you’re interested in engineering, history, or still exploring your academic interests.

Let’s start this journey together, breaking down each essay question and providing you with the skills to create compelling stories that will set your application apart. Remember, these essays are more than just answers; they are your chance to connect with the University of Virginia and show why you’re a great fit for this prestigious school.

How Many Essay Prompts Does the University of Virginia Have?

While there is one general prompt required for all applicants and an optional prompt for those with specific connections to UVA, the total number of supplemental essay prompts a student might write varies based on the school they are applying to within the university. This structure allows UVA to gain a comprehensive understanding of the applicant not just in terms of general university fit, but also in terms of their specific academic and personal alignment with their chosen field of study.

What are the 2023-2024 University of Virginia Supplemental Essay Prompts?

The University of Virginia has several supplemental essay prompts for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle. These prompts vary depending on the app licant’s background and the specific school they are applying to within the university. Here are the detailed prompts:

General Prompt for All Applicants

What about your individual background, perspective, or experience will serve as a source of strength for you or those around you at UVA? Feel free to write about any past experience or part of your background that has shaped your perspective and will be a source of strength, including but not limited to those related to your community, upbringing, educational environment, race, gender, or other aspects of your background that are important to you. (250 words)

Optional Prompt

If you have a personal or historic connection with UVA, and if you’d like to share how your experience of this connection has prepared you to contribute to the University, please share your thoughts here. Such relationships might include, but are not limited to, being a child of someone who graduated from or works for UVA, a descendant of ancestors who labored at UVA, or a participant in UVA programs. (100 words)

Prompt for School of Nursing Applicants

Describe a health care-related experience or another significant interaction that deepened your interest in studying Nursing. (250 words)

How to Write the 2023-2024 University of Virginia Supplemental Essays

Required essay, understanding the question:.

This prompt is seeking to understand how a student’s unique background, experiences, and perspectives will contribute positively to the UVA community. It’s an opportunity for students to showcase their individuality and the distinct qualities they can bring to the campus. Here are four key points with detailed explanations on how students might approach this prompt:

Crafting Your Response:

1. Identify Unique Aspects of Your Background: Students should reflect on the elements of their upbringing, community, and personal experiences that make them unique. This could be related to cultural heritage, family traditions, a significant life event, or challenges they’ve overcome. For instance, a student who grew up in a multicultural environment might discuss how this experience has given them a broader understanding of different perspectives, which they can share with their peers at UVA.

2. Highlight Personal Growth and Learning: Students should give particular emphasis to how their experiences have contributed to their personal growth and learning. For instance, overcoming academic challenges offers a compelling narrative arc. This isn’t just about the challenge itself, but rather the journey and the transformation that followed. A student could delve into the specifics of the obstacles they faced – be it difficulties with a specific subject, balancing schoolwork with other responsibilities, or adapting to different learning environments. 

The focus should be on the evolution of their approach to these challenges. This narrative could highlight the development of innovative learning strategies, the discovery of unexpected strengths, or the realization of the importance of perseverance and resilience. 

By detailing this journey, the student doesn’t just share a story of overcoming adversity; they also showcase crucial qualities like adaptability, problem-solving skills, and an unyielding commitment to self-improvement. These are attributes highly valued in an academic setting, as they signal a student who is not only prepared to face challenges but also capable of evolving in the face of them.

Moreover, this approach allows the student to illustrate how these learned qualities are not just personal achievements but assets they can bring to the University of Virginia community. For example, the resilience and adaptability gained from overcoming academic challenges are not only beneficial for the student’s own academic journey but can also be a source of inspiration and guidance for peers. 

The student could discuss how these experiences have equipped them to contribute to study groups, lead peer-to-peer tutoring sessions, or participate in mentorship programs. This aspect of the essay is crucial; it connects the personal narrative to the broader UVA community. It shows that the student is not only prepared to succeed on their own but also eager and capable of uplifting others. This demonstrates a deep understanding of the university’s values and a commitment to being an active and contributing member of its vibrant academic community.

3. Connect to UVA’s Values and Community: It is crucial for students to align their personal experiences and perspectives with the values and ethos of UVA. To effectively achieve this, a student should first conduct thorough research to gain a deep understanding of what UVA stands for — its community ethos, academic values, and cultural priorities. UVA is known for its commitment to a vibrant community life, academic excellence, and a spirit of exploration and discovery. 

By delving into these aspects, students can identify specific values that resonate with their own experiences or beliefs. For instance, if a student has actively engaged in community service, and this aspect of service and community building is a prominent value at UVA, this should be a focal point in their essay. The student can narrate their experiences in community service, detailing the lessons learned, the impact made, and most importantly, how these experiences have shaped their character and worldview.

Furthermore, the student should not just reflect on past experiences but also articulate a forward-looking vision. This involves discussing how they envision carrying forward their commitment to service and community involvement at UVA. They could elaborate on specific initiatives or groups at UVA that they aspire to join or contribute to, demonstrating a proactive and thoughtful approach to their future college life. 

This connection between personal values and university ethos becomes more than just a narrative; it transforms into a commitment to actively contribute to and enhance the UVA community. In doing so, the student effectively communicates not just their fit for UVA, but also their potential to be a dynamic and contributing member of the university, furthering the values that both the student and the institution cherish.

4. Discuss Potential Contributions to UVA: The prompt asks how the student’s background will be a source of strength for themselves or others at UVA. Students should think about how their experiences could contribute to classroom discussions, student organizations, or community engagement at UVA. For example, a student with a background in environmental activism could talk about bringing new ideas to sustainability initiatives on campus.

5. Reflect on Future Goals and Aspirations: While the prompt focuses on past experiences, students can also touch upon how their background will help them achieve their future goals, particularly those they hope to pursue at UVA . This could involve academic interests, career aspirations, or personal development goals.

Each of these points should be deeply personal and specific to the student’s own experiences and aspirations, allowing them to creat e a compelling narrative that not only answers the prompt but also gives the admissions committee a clear picture of who they are and what they can bring to the University of Virginia.

This prompt is about exploring a student’s personal or historic connection to the university and understanding how this connection has shaped their readiness to contribute to the UVA community. It’s a chance for students to link their familial, historical, or experiential ties to their prospective future at the university.

1. Detail the Specific Connection: Students should clearly state their specific connection to UVA. This could be a family legacy (e.g., parents or grandparents who attended UVA), a personal experience (like participating in UVA programs or camps), or a more historical and profound connection (such as being a descendant of individuals who have contributed to the university’s history). The key is to be precise about the nature of this connection.

2. Reflect on the Impact of This Connection: In crafting a response that reflects on the impact of a familial or personal connection to the University of Virginia, students should delve deeply into how these ties have shaped their perspective and influenced their life decisions. For instance, a student with family members who are UVA alumni might have grown up immersed in tales of the university’s hallowed halls, historic traditions, and the spirited community that defines it. 

These stories, often shared during family gatherings, could have instilled a deep-seated appreciation for the university’s values, academic rigor, and the sense of belonging it fosters. This connection goes beyond mere familiarity; it’s about how the narratives of past generations have woven into the student’s aspirations, shaping their academic and personal goals. 

The student could discuss specific traditions or aspects of UVA culture that resonated with them, perhaps drawing parallels between the values upheld by their family – such as a commitment to service, excellence in scholarship, or a strong sense of community – and those championed by the university.

Moreover, this reflection should extend to how this connection has influenced the student’s life decisions and future ambitions. Perhaps hearing about the transformative experiences and opportunities at UVA has motivated the student to pursue particular fields of study or engage in community service. The student might share how witnessing the impact of a UVA education on their family members’ lives inspired them to set higher educational goals or instilled in them a desire to contribute positively to their community. 

This part of the essay should paint a vivid picture of the student’s journey, marked by a growing admiration for UVA, culminating in the decision to apply. It’s about connecting the past – the legacy and stories inherited – with the present aspirations and future dreams, all while highlighting how the university’s ethos resonates with their own values and aspirations. This approach not only demonstrates the student’s connection to UVA but also their thoughtful consideration of how their personal history aligns with the university’s culture and ideals.

3. Link Personal Growth to UVA Experience: If the connection has played a role in the student’s personal growth or academic interests, they should highlight this. For example, if participating in a UVA summer program sparked an interest in a particular field of study, the student could discuss how this experience guided their academic choices and how they plan to further explore these interests at UVA.

4. Discuss Contribution to UVA Community: The prompt seeks to understand how the student’s connection to UVA will enable them to contribute to the university. Students should brainstorm ways in which their unique insights or experiences could enrich the campus community. For instance, a student who grew up hearing about UVA’s history might have a deep respect for the university’s traditions and could contribute to campus activities that celebrate this heritage.

5. Convey Enthusiasm and Commitment: Given the brevity of the response (100 words), it’s crucial to convey a strong sense of enthusiasm and commitment to UVA. This can be achieved through a tone that reflects excitement about the prospect of continuing a familial legacy or building upon personal experiences related to the university.

In crafting their response, students should aim to create a concise yet powerful narrative that not only demonstrates their connection t o UVA but also how this connection has prepared them to be active and contributing members of the university community.

Describe a healthcare-related experience or another significant interaction that deepened your interest in studying Nursing. (250 words)

The prompt for the School of Nursing is designed to understand a student’s motivation and passion for studying nursing. It’s an opportunity for students to showcase their personal connection to the field, highlight their experiences, and demonstrate their commitment to nursing. Here are four key points with detailed explanations for brainstorming a response.

1. Identify a Defining Experience: Students should reflect on a specific healthcare-related experience or interaction that significantly influenced their decision to pursue nursing. This could be a personal health challenge, a family member’s medical journey, volunteer work in a healthcare setting, or witnessing a healthcare professional’s impact. The experience should be meaningful and have played a pivotal role in sparking their interest in nursing.

2. Detail the Experience and Its Impact: It’s important to not only describe the experience but to delve into how it shaped their understanding of nursing. For example, if a student volunteered at a hospital, they should describe their interactions with patients and nurses, observing the compassion and expertise required in nursing. The focus should be on what they learned from the experience and how it solidified their desire to enter the nursing field.

3. Connect Personal Qualities to Nursing: Students should link their personal attributes and skills to the qualities needed in nursing. For instance, if they have demonstrated empathy, resilience, or problem-solving skills in their experience, they should explain how these qualities are essential in nursing and how they plan to apply them in their studies and future careers.

4. Express Commitment to the Field: The essay should convey a strong commitment to nursing. This includes discussing long-term goals within the field, such as specific areas of interest (e.g., pediatric, oncology, public health nursing), and how they hope to make a difference in patients’ lives and the broader healthcare landscape.

5. Tie the Experience to Studying at UVA: Finally, students should briefly mention why these experiences and their nursing aspirations make UVA a fitting choice for their education. They could highlight specific aspects of UVA’s nursing program that resonate with their goals and experiences, such as particular courses, clinical opportunities, or the university’s approach to healthcare education.

This prompt is an excellent opportunity for students to tell a personal story that not only reflects their passion for nursing but also demonstrates their suitability for the field. The narrative should be engaging, heartfelt, and reflective, giving the admissions committee a clear sense of the student’s journey toward choosing nursing as a career path.

What You Should Know Before Start Writing

When preparing to write the University of Virginia supplemental essays 2023-2024, students should engage in thorough reading and research to ensure their essays are well-informed and tailored to UVA’s ethos and expectations. Here’s what they should consider reading:

1. UVA’s Mission Statement and Core Values: Understanding the University of Virginia’s mission and core values is crucial. These documents offer insights into what UVA stands for and seeks in its students. By aligning their essays with these values, students can demonstrate that they are not just a good fit academically but also resonate with the university’s broader community and cultural ethos.

2. Course Descriptions and Program Information: Students should read up on the specific programs, courses, and extracurricular activities that interest them at UVA. This information, which can usually be found on the university’s website , will help them to tailor their essays to show how their interests and goals align with what UVA offers. For example, if applying to the School of Engineering, understanding the unique aspects of UVA’s engineering program can help students articulate why they are drawn to it.

3. Current Events and Recent Developments at UVA: Keeping abreast of recent news, research breakthroughs, and developments at UVA can provide students with contemporary topics to reference in their essays. This shows the admissions committee that the student is genuinely interested in being part of the UVA community and is staying informed about its ongoing activities and achievements.

4. Student Blogs, Forums, and UVA Social Media: Reading content created by current UVA students, such as blogs or forum posts, can offer a glimpse into the day-to-day life and culture at the university. Following UVA’s official social media channels can also provide updates and insights. This can help applicants in crafting essays that reflect a realistic and enthusiastic perspective about becoming part of the UVA community.

5. Sample Successful Essays: While it’s important not to copy or mimic other essays, reading examples of successful University of Virginia supplemental essays can give students an idea of the tone, structure, and type of content that resonates with admissions officers. However, students should always ensure that their essays are unique and true to their personal experiences and aspirations.

In summary, extensive reading and research are key to writing compelling University of Virginia supplemental essays 2023-2024. Understanding UVA’s values, programs, and culture, as well as learning from the experiences of current students and successful applicants, can provide a solid foundation for writing insightful and personalized essays.

Structuring Your Supplemental Essays Effectively

The structure of suppleme ntal essays plays a pivotal role in how effectively a student’s message is communicated. A well-structured essay not only ensures clarity and coherence but also enables the applicant to showcase their thoughts and experiences compellingly. Here are three key points on how applicants can structure their UVA supplemental essays:

1. Begin with a Captivating Introduction: The opening of the 2023-2024 University of Virginia supplemental essays should instantly engage the reader. A compelling introduction sets the tone and presents a glimpse of the essay’s focus. Applicants could start with a vivid anecdote, a surprising fact, or a provocative question related to their chosen prompt.

For example, if writing about a personal experience that shaped their perspective, starting with a brief story or a defining moment can draw the reader into their narrative. This approach not only grabs attention but also creates a personal connection with the admissions committee.

2. Develop a Coherent Body with Thematic Segments: The body of the essay should be structured in a way that each paragraph flows logically from one to the next, building upon the ideas introduced in the beginning. Applicants should use each paragraph to explore different facets of their response to the prompt.

For instance, in discussing how their background will contribute to UVA’s community, one paragraph could focus on personal experiences, another on learned skills, and a third on future aspirations at UVA. Using clear, thematic segments helps in maintaining the essay’s focus and makes it easier for readers to follow the narrative thread.

3. Conclude with Reflection and Forward-Thinking: A strong conclusion to the 2023-2024 University of Virginia supplemental essays should tie back to the introduction and provide a reflection on the overall message. It’s an opportunity for applicants to reiterate their main points and express how their experiences or perspectives align with UVA’s values and academic environment. 

The conclusion should also look forward, perhaps by stating how the applicant plans to contribute to the UVA community or how attending UVA fits into their long-term goals. This not only shows a full-circle understanding of the topic but also demonstrates the applicant’s forward-thinking mindset and eagerness to be part of the UVA community.

Overall, the structure of your supplemental essays is as crucial as the content. A well-organized essay with a captivating i ntroduction, a coherent body, and a reflective conclusion can significantly enhance the effectiveness of the applicant’s narrative, making their application stand out in the competitive admissions process.

How to Effectively Revise and Proofread Your Supplemental Essays

When it comes to revising and proofreading the 2023-2024 University of Virginia supplemental essays, attention to detail and a systematic approach are vital. Here are some key strategies to ensure that the essays are polished and impactful:

1. Take a Break Before Revising: After the initial draft of the University of Virginia supplemental essays, it’s beneficial to take a short break before starting the revision process. Stepping away from the essay for a day or two allows the mind to refresh, making it easier to spot errors and inconsistencies with a fresh perspective. This break can also help in reassessing the essay’s alignment with the prompt and UVA’s values.

2. Read Aloud for Flow and Clarity: Reading the essay aloud is a powerful technique to check for flow and clarity. This helps in identifying awkward phrasing, run-on sentences, or any parts of the essay that might be confusing. For the 2023-2024 University of Virginia supplemental essays, ensuring that each sentence is clear and contributes to the overall narrative is crucial.

3. Check for Consistency and Relevance: During revision, it’s important to ensure that each part of the essay consistently supports the central theme and directly answers the prompt. Applicants should scrutinize each paragraph, asking themselves if the content is relevant and strengthens their argument. This is particularly important for UVA essays, where being concise yet comprehensive is key.

4. Seek Feedback from Others: Getting a second or third opinion can be invaluable. Applicants should consider asking teachers, mentors, or peers to review their essays. These reviewers can offer a new perspective and suggest improvements or areas that need more clarity. However, it’s important to remember that the final essay should remain in the applicant’s own voice and reflect their personal experiences and aspirations.

5. Final Proofreading for Grammar and Typos: The last step should be a thorough proofreading focusing on grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Small errors can distract from the content and give an impression of carelessness. Tools like grammar checkers can be helpful, but they should not replace a meticulous manual review. For the University of Virginia supplemental essays, where every word counts, this step is crucial for presenting a polished and professional final draft.

In summary, effectively revising and proofreading the 2023-2024 University of Virginia supplemental essays involves a combination of strategic breaks, reading aloud, ensuring consistency and relevance, seeking external feedback, and detailed proofreadi ng. This comprehensive approach ensures that the essays are not only free of errors but also compelling and reflective of the applicant’s suitability for UVA.

The Importance of University of Virginia Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

Supplemental essays play an integral role in the college admissions process, offering a unique opportunity for students to showcase their personal identity, values, and distinct experiences. Unlike grades and test scores, these essays allow applicants to tell their own stories and express their individual perspectives.

The 2023-2024 University of Virginia supplemental essays, for instance, provide a crucial platform for students to demonstrate how their backgro unds and experiences align with UVA’s values and culture. This personal touch can set applicants apart in a pool of similarly qualified candidates.

Furthermore, supplemental essays are a key medium for students to demonstrate their specific interest and fit for a particular university. Through the 2023-2024 UVA supplemental essays, applicants have the chance to articulate why they have chosen UVA, highlighting aspects such as unique academic programs, the university’s culture, or specific opportunities that resonate with their personal and academic aspirations. A well-written essay that echoes UVA’s ethos can significantly boost an applicant’s chances of admission by showing a thoughtful and informed commitment to the university.

These essays also provide an avenue for students to delve into and highlight specific skills, experiences, or achievements that are particularly relevant to their desired field of study or college experience. At UVA, applicants might discuss their leadership roles, community involvement, or personal challenges, showcasing how these experiences have equipped them for college life. This level of detail in the 2023-2024 University of Virginia supplemental essays helps admissions officers gauge the depth of an applicant’s abilities and their potential to thrive in the university’s environment.

Moreover, supplemental essays offer a space for students to provide context to their application, which can be crucial in cases where they need to explain certain aspects, such as an irregular academic record or unique life circumstances. The University of Virginia’s supplemental essays for the 2023-2024 cycle serve this purpose effectively, allowing students to furnish additional information that can influence admissions officers’ decisions.

In essence, supplemental essays are a critical component of the college admissions process, allowing students to present a compreh ensive and multi-dimensional profile. For applicants to the University of Virginia, crafting insightful and engaging supplemental essays is a pivotal step towards achieving their collegiate goals, highlighting their readiness and suitability for the academic and cultural environment at UVA.

Why Choose UVA?

The University of Virginia presents a compelling choice for your academic journey, distinguished by its prestigious rankings and a strong commitment to academic excellence. In 2023, UVA rose to the impressive No. 3 spot among public universities according to the U.S. News & W orld Report Best Colleges ranking. 

This achievement not only highlights UVA’s current prestige but also its consistent performance, as it has remained in the top four for over two decades in this category. Additionally, UVA is recognized as the No. 24 best overall university in the nation, showcasing its comprehensive strength across various disciplines.

Financial considerations are also a strong point for UVA. The university has been named the No. 2 best-value public university by The Princeton Review. This reflects UVA’s commitment to offering high-quality education at an accessible cost. Furthermore, UVA’s dedication to supporting its students is evident in its recognition as the best public college in the nation for financial aid for three consecutive years. This emphasizes the university’s efforts to make education attainable for a diverse range of students.

Specialized programs at UVA also stand out, particularly in business education. The Darden School of Business at UVA has been ranked as the No. 3 business school in the United States by Bloomberg Businessweek. This is the highest ranking ever received by the school for its Full-Time MBA programs, indicating a robust and evolving business education environment.

Overall, the University of Virginia not only boasts historic prestige and a beautiful campus but also excels in academic quality, value , financial support, and specialized programs. As you consider your options for the upcoming academic year, UVA offers an environment where tradition is blended with innovation, creating an ideal setting for realizing your academic and professional goals.

How Do UVA’s Supplemental Essay Prompts Compare to Other Top Universities?

The University of Virginia’s supplemental essays for the 2023-2024 academic year present a unique set of challenges and opportunities for applicants, distinguishing themselves from other top universities in several key ways. Unlike many other institutions, UVA’s prompts often focus on eliciting responses that reveal the applicant’s personality, interests, and fit with the university’s culture. 

For instance, one of UVA’s prompts typically asks students to discuss a work of art, music, science, mathematics, or literature that has challenged or changed their perspective. This contrasts with the more common prompts seen at universities like Harvard or Stanford , where the focus might be more on achievements, future goals, or intellectual pursuits.

Another aspect where UVA’s supplemental essays stand out is in their emphasis on community and personal experiences. While schools like the University of Chicago are known for their creative and intellectual prompts, often involving unusual or abstract questions, UVA asks applicants to reflect on their experiences within their communities or families. This approach aims to understand how applicants interact with and contribute to their immediate environments. It’s a more grounded and practical approach than the philosophical or hypothetical scenarios posed by some other elite institutions.

Finally, UVA’s essays tend to be shorter and more focused than those of some peers, requiring applicants to be concise and dire ct in their responses. This brevity can be a refreshing change from the longer, more open-ended prompts of schools like Columbia or Yale , which allow for more extensive exploration of ideas but also demand a greater depth of thought and expression. UVA’s approach ensures that applicants get straight to the point, allowing the admissions committee to glean insights into the applicants’ personalities and thought processes efficiently.

The University of Virginia Application Deadlines and Acceptance Rate

The University of Virginia has set specific application deadlines for the 2023-2024 application cycle. These deadlines vary depending on the admission plan chosen by the applicant. For Early Decision, the deadline is November 1, with an extension to November 8, and decisions are communicated by December 15. For Early Action, the application deadline is also November 1, extended to November 8, with decisions announced by February 15. Lastly, for Regular Decision, the application must be submitted by January 5, with a grace period until January 10, and applicants will be informed of their status by April 1​​.

Regarding the acceptance rate, UVA is known for its selective admissions process. For the 2022-2023 application cycle, the university had an acceptance rate of 19% , indicative of its competitive nature. Out of the 50,926 students who applied, 9,676 were admitted. This selectivity highlights the importance of submitting a strong application, including well-crafted 2023-2024 University of Virginia supplemental essays, to stand out in a large pool of applicants​​.

When planning your application to UVA, it’s essential to be mindful of these deadlines and the competitive acceptance rate. The university’s selective nature emphasizes the importance of timely and thoughtful application submissions, where the supplemental essays play a crucial role. 

These essays offer an opportunity to showcase your unique perspectives and qualifications beyond academic records. Hence, understa nding these aspects of the application process is key to increasing your chances of being part of the select few who gain admission to this esteemed institution.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Your Supplemental Essays

When crafting your 2023-2024 University of Virginia supplemental essays, avoiding common mistakes is as important as highlighting your strengths and experiences. Here are some key pitfalls to avoid:

1. Lack of Personalization: One of the most frequent mistakes is failing to tailor your essay to UVA specifically. Generic essays that could apply to any university miss the mark. UVA’s prompts are designed to gauge your fit with their unique community and values. Research UVA’s programs, culture, and values, and reflect on how they align with your goals and experiences.

2. Overlooking the Prompt’s Essence: Each supplemental essay prompt has a specific intention. It’s vital to answer the question directly and thoughtfully. For example, if a prompt asks about a piece of art that changed your perspective, focus not just on the art piece but also on how it transformed your thinking or actions. This demonstrates both self-awareness and critical thinking.

3. Ignoring the Importance of Brevity: UVA’s essays are typically concise. A common error is writing too much and not being succinct. This can lead to rambling or diluting the impact of your main points. Each word should serve a purpose – either advancing your narrative or illuminating your character. Editing and revising for clarity and brevity are crucial.

4. Neglecting Your Unique Voice and Experiences: Many applicants fall into the trap of telling admissions what they think they want to hear, rather than showcasing their genuine self. Authenticity is key. Share your unique experiences, perspectives, and aspirations. What makes you different from other applicants? How do your experiences shape who you are and your ambitions?

5. Not Proofreading: Grammatical errors, typos, or incorrect formatting can detract from the quality of your essay. They can give an impression of carelessness and lack of attention to detail. Always proofread your essays, and if possible, have a teacher, counselor, or mentor review them as well.

6. Playing It Too Safe: While it’s important to be professional and respectful, don’t shy away from being bold in your ideas or creative in your storytelling. UVA appreciates students who bring diverse perspectives and are willing to challenge the status quo.

7. Repeating Information from Other Parts of the Application: Your supplemental essays should provide new insights about you, not reiterate what’s already in your application. Avoid repeating content from your main Common Application essay or listing achievements that are already in your resume. Instead, use the supplemental essays as an opportunity to delve into aspects of your personality, experiences, and aspirations that haven’t been covered elsewhere.

8. Failing to Demonstrate Intellectual Curiosity and Growth: UVA values students who are intellectually curious and open to growth. Essays that fail to demonstrate a love for learning or an open-minded approach to challenges can be a missed opportunity. Share experiences that show how you engage with the world intellectually and how you’ve grown from these experiences.

9. Over-Reliance on Clichés and Overused Phrases: While it’s natural to want to use phrases that seem impactful, overused clichés can make your essay sound generic and uninspiring. Strive for originality in both your content and your language. Express your thoughts in a way that is uniquely yours, which can make your essay more memorable and engaging.

10. Neglecting to Connect Your Story to the Future: UVA is not just interested in who you are now, but also in who you aspire to be. A common oversight is not connecting your current experiences and interests to your future goals. How does what you’ve learned and experienced shape your future ambitions? How do you see yourself contributing to the UVA community and beyond?

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create compelling, insightful, and impactful supplemental essays that will help you stand out in the UVA admissions process. Remember, the goal is to paint a comprehensive and engaging picture of who you are, what you value, and how you align with UVA’s community and academic environment.

Concluding Thoughts

As we wrap up our exploration of the University of Virginia’s supplemental essays for the 2023-2024 application cycle, remember that these essays are your chance to shine, to show the admissions committee not just who you are, but who you aspire to be. Each word you write brings you one step closer to walking the paths of the historic Grounds, joining a community of scholars and leaders who have shaped the world.

Craft your essays with authenticity and thoughtfulness. Reflect on your experiences, your dreams, and how the University of Virginia fits into your future story. Be bold in your aspirations, honest in your reflections, and meticulous in your writing. This is your moment to share your voice, your unique perspective that no one else can offer.

As you submit your application, take pride in the effort and heart you’ve poured into your essays. You’re not just submitting a set of documents; you’re presenting a piece of your journey, a snapshot of your life and ambitions. Whether you’re destined to be a Cavalier or your path leads you elsewhere, the process of articulating your goals and values is a valuable step toward your future.

We wish you the very best in your college application journey. May your essays be a powerful testament to your potential and a stepping stone to achieving your dreams. Go forth with confidence, and remember, the journey itself is as significant as the destination.

How AdmissionSight Can Help You With College Admissions

AdmissionSight is a college consulting firm that provides personalized assistance to students throughout the college admissions process. Here are some ways that AdmissionSight can help you:

Admissions strategy: AdmissionSight can help you develop a strategic plan for your college application process. Our professional consultants can assist with identifying schools that are a good fit for your academic, extracurricular, and personal goals and help you plan and prioritize your application strategy.

Application review: AdmissionSight can review your application and provide feedback on how to improve it. We can offer suggestions on making your application stand out and highlighting your strengths and unique qualities.

Essay coaching: AdmissionSight can help you craft compelling essays that showcase your personality, goals, and achievements. We can guide you through the essay writing process and provide feedback on your drafts to help you refine your writing.

Interview preparation: AdmissionSight can provide interview coaching to help you feel confident and prepared for college interviews. Our experts can offer tips on how to present yourself professionally and how to answer common interview questions.

Extracurricular planning: AdmissionSight can help you plan and develop your extracurricular activities to make them more impactful and meaningful. We can suggest activities that align with your interests and goals and provide guidance on demonstrating your leadership and initiative.

Overall, AdmissionSight can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the college admissions process to help you maximize your chances of getting accepted into the college of your choice .

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UVA Admission Essays Are Posted. Learn How to Write Your Best One

High school students looking to get a jump on joining the University of Virginia’s Class of 2023 got some big news recently: This year’s essay questions have been unveiled.

Associate Dean of Admission Jeannine Lalonde shared this year’s essay prompts, then took some time to explain why the essay remains an important part of the application process and shared some writing tips for prospective applicants.

“I think that it helps us get insight into the personality, voice and style of the student,” she said. “The rest of the application consists of forms and other people telling us about the student. This is their chance to talk directly to us.”

As for the writing, Lalonde said she typically shares three tips with high school students when it comes to putting together an application essay.

1.  Don’t overthink the topic

“The questions are broad because we want the students to go in whatever direction makes sense for them,” Lalonde said. “The topic is just a vehicle that the student uses. They should pick a topic that lets them be interesting and authentic in their writing.”

2. You don’t have to write like it’s a school essay.

“Don’t feel limited to the formulaic way that most students are taught to write for class,” she said. “This is a different sort of writing. The more standard format used in academic writing is fine for school and it’s great when writing under pressure. But prospective students should feel free to use whatever format makes sense for the message or story that they want to get across.”

3. It’s smart to get advice, but be authentic.

“It’d be foolish to submit an essay without having someone you trust take a look first and give feedback, but essays shouldn’t read like they were done by committee. And if you don’t like the advice someone gives, feel free to ignore it. When you submit it, it should feel good to you, and it should sound like you.”

Here’s a look at the essay prompts for the coming application season. Stay up with news about admission by following Lalonde’s blog, Notes From Peabody, or following her Twitter, where she’s @UVADeanJ.

2018-2019 First-Year Application Essay Questions  

1. we are looking for passionate students to join our diverse community of scholars, researchers, and artists. answer the question that corresponds to the school/program to which you are applying in a half page or roughly 250 words..

• College of Arts and Sciences - What work of art, music, science, mathematics, or literature has surprised, unsettled, or challenged you, and in what way?
• School of Engineering and Applied Sciences - If you were given funding for a small engineering project that would make everyday life better for one friend or family member, what would you design?
• School of Architecture - Describe an instance or place where you have been inspired by architecture or design.  
• School of Nursing - School of Nursing applicants may have experience shadowing, volunteering, or working in a health care environment. Tell us about a health care-related experience or another significant interaction that deepened your interest in studying nursing.
• Kinesiology Program - Discuss experiences that led you to choose the kinesiology major. 

2. Answer one of the following questions in a half page or roughly 250 words. 

• What’s your favorite word and why?
• We are a community with quirks, both in language and in traditions. Describe one of your quirks and why it is part of who you are.
• Student self-governance, which encourages student investment and initiative, is a hallmark of the UVA culture. In her fourth year at UVA, Laura Nelson was inspired to create Flash Seminars, one-time classes which facilitate high-energy discussion about thought-provoking topics outside of traditional coursework. If you created a Flash Seminar, what idea would you explore and why?
• UVA students paint messages on Beta Bridge when they want to share information with our community. What would you paint on Beta Bridge and why is this your message?
• UVA students are charged with pushing the boundaries of knowledge to serve others and contribute to the common good. Give us an example of how you’ve used what you’ve learned to make a positive impact in another person’s life.

University of Virginia (UVA) 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Early Action/Decision: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 5

You Have: 

University of Virginia (UVA) 2023-2024 First-Year Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 1 essay of 250 words, 1 optional essay of 100 words, 1 essay of 250 words for applicants to the School of Nursing only

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why , Community

In around 250 words, please answer the following question:

What about your individual background, perspective, or experience will serve as a source of strength for you or those around you at uva  feel free to write about any past experience or part of your background that has shaped your perspective and will be a source of strength, including but not limited to those related to your community, upbringing, educational environment, race, gender, or other aspects of your background that are important to you..

Odds are that this isn’t the first “diversity” essay prompt you’ve come across this year—even if the prompt doesn’t explicitly use that word. If it is, however, please read on. UVA wants to accept students from a range of backgrounds who will contribute to an inclusive community. The prompt uses the phrase “source of strength” twice; this tells us that they want to hear about not only what makes you you , but also how these characteristics will support you and those around you. What you focus on here can be reflective of larger cultural constructs or specific to you and only you. Is there anything you can teach your classmates about your hometown, traditions, culture, orientation, identity, race, or ethnicity that they might not already know? Maybe you began practicing meditation and discovered Buddhism during your sophomore year and you hope to spread some wisdom and mindfulness on campus next fall. Perhaps you were raised on a farm and have a very special relationship to all living things (plants, animals, people, etc.) around you. How will you incorporate this element of your identity into your college experience? Show admissions that you’re eager to make your mark in their community.

Students applying to the School of Nursing are required to answer this question in around 250 words.

School of nursing – describe a health care-related experience or another significant interaction that deepened your interest in studying nursing..

This prompt asks applicants to detail a specific experience to prove their interest in their chosen field of study, nursing. It is a bit closer to a traditional why essay in that students should make sure not just to discuss the experience that led them to pursue nursing, but also to connect that experience to their larger goals for the future. Perhaps you were diagnosed with diabetes as a child and the nursing care you received inspired you to go into the field yourself. Maybe your grandfather was a nurse and you were awed by his skills when your grandmother fell off a ladder. If there are elements of the UVA program that support your particular interest or connect to the experience you choose to highlight, definitely build those bridges to show admissions you are familiar with the programs UVA has to offer, and have already considered how your experiences will help you achieve future academic success.

Optional: If you have a personal or historic connection with UVA, and if you’d like to share how your experience of this connection has prepared you to contribute to the University, please share your thoughts here.  Such relationships might include, but are not limited to, being a child of someone who graduated from or works for UVA, a descendant of ancestors who labored at UVA, or a participant in UVA programs. (100 words)

Now that UVA is no longer explicitly considering legacy in their admissions process, admissions has added this question to identify not only those whose parents went to UVA, but also those whose ancestors labored at UVA. This reflects the university’s ongoing reckoning with its own founding, which included the use of enslaved labor. Here, anyone with personal or historic ties to the university, including students who attended summer programs there, can describe their unique connection. If you don’t have a connection, that’s okay! Most people won’t. If you do, however, read on.

This question doesn’t just ask you to state your tie, it asks you to explore how that connection has primed you to contribute to the community. Maybe your mom was an RA and has shared all the steam tunnel routes with you, so you can initiate your roommates into this UVA tradition. Perhaps one of your ancestors built the iconic Rotunda, and you look forward to educating your classmates about their legacy. Maybe you attended a summer program and fell in love with the Jeffersonian architecture, inspiring your passion for historic preservation. Remember, your job here is to explore how your personal connection to UVA will make you a contributor to campus life. 

About Kat Stubing

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Wednesday, June 12, 2024

An update for the 2024 waiting list.

  If you watch   my weekly live q&a sessions on Instagram , you've heard me talk about the waiting list a few times already, but I have an official update for the waiting list from Greg Roberts, the Associate VP of Enrollment and Undergraduate Admission. This update is going into portals and will go out by email momentarily. 

Thank you for your continued interest in the University of Virginia. We are grateful that you chose to remain on the waiting list, and we realize that waiting is never easy.  Thank you for your patience, and thank you - again - for your interest. You have demonstrated to us that you are more than capable of thriving at UVA and contributing to the education and experience of your classmates. We want you to know that we respect and admire all that you have accomplished, and that we have great faith in your future. At the same time, after considering the size of the first-year class and the spaces available, we have unfortunately concluded that we cannot offer you admission to UVA this year. I expect this will be disappointing news to receive, and I am very sorry that I have to deliver it. If your heart is truly set on attending UVA, we are here to help. Many waitlisted first year students earn admission after one or two years elsewhere, provided they let us help them with planning. If you would like to talk to an Admission Counselor about transfer admission, or how you might begin your college career at the excellent and welcoming UVA Wise campus in southwest Virginia, please contact us. We would welcome the chance to answer questions and assist. We appreciate your interest in the University of Virginia, and wish you the best as you begin your college career.

Thursday, May 16, 2024

Another waiting list update.

We just shared this message on the waiting list website...

We’re grateful to the many deserving students who remain on our waiting list. We offered admission to a small number of students this evening. These students received an email notifying them of an update to their status in their MyUVA application portal.

Over the next month, we will continue to monitor our class. We expect to resolve the status of all students who remain on the waiting list no later than June 15.

We are thankful all of our applicants for putting their faith in us and for their interest in UVA. We wish you the best as you wrap up your senior year and get ready for what we hope is a fun, safe, and relaxing summer.

Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Enrollment deposits due today, tuesday, april 09, 2024, a waiting list update.

We are grateful to all students who remain interested in attending UVA. On Tuesday, April 9, we offered admission to 57 students who were on the waiting list for first year admission. We’ve reached out to these newly admitted students through their application portal and by email. All admitted students, including those offered from the waiting list, have until May 15 to submit their enrollment deposit to secure their place in the class. Enrollment deposit fee waivers are available to students with financial need and deadline extensions are available to those experiencing difficulties with FAFSA submission.

Although we may be able to offer admission to additional students who remain on our waiting list, we do not expect to do so before May 15, and the process may extend into June. Learn more about the waiting list on our FAQ page .

Again, we are grateful to all students who remain interested in UVA and wish all students the very best as they complete their senior year and make their college selection.

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Second round echols, rodman, and college science scholars notfication.

The second round of invitations for three of UVA's scholars programs went out on Monday afternoon by email  and a short note was added to portals.  All  applicants to the College of Arts & Sciences and the School of Engineering were reviewed for a potential invitation to three scholars programs:   Echols ,   Rodman , and   College Science Scholars . 

Echols and Rodman add a few members through a third round that takes place after the first semester (you can self-nominate for that round). 

About 5% of students in the College of Arts and Sciences and School of Engineering are invited to join these programs. You can read more about them on their websites. In addition to showing exceptional academic records, scholars show a love of learning and an extraordinary commitment to academic pursuits beyond the classroom. We see this in transcripts, recommendations, essays, and activities. The review for the scholars programs is not driven by GPAs or test scores. 

Congratulations to all!

Thursday, March 14, 2024

2023-2024 uva admission statistics (unofficial).

I've written a post like this few times per year since 2008. UVA has always been pretty transparent about statistics. The  Office of Institutional Research and Analytics  website  has admission data going back to 1991 and our office shares admission rates broken down by residency in our presentations, publications, on our website, and on social media. If you're familiar with any of those, then these numbers I'm sharing aren't all that surprising. 

 If you are a reporter, please contact the  Office of University Communications  for current, official information.

Regular Decision Round

Total RD applications: 16,866 (15,828 last year) VA RD applications: 3,750 (3,413) OOS RD applications: 13,116 (12,415)

VA RD acceptance rate: 15% (16%) OOS RD acceptance rate: 11% (10%)

Overall Admission Statistics

Total applications: 58,995 (56,439 last year) Total VA applications: 16,455 (15,200) Total OOS applications: 42,540 (41,338)

Overall VA acceptance rate: 25.5% (27%) Overall OOS acceptance rate: 13% (12%)

A few notes:

3. Unofficial  early decision  and  early action  statistics were shared when we concluded those rounds. 4. Admitted students will get a hard copy of their letter in their offer packet.  Unfortunately,   I can't predict when USPS will put that in your mailbox.

5. Students offered the waiting list option should read  the Waiting List FAQs .  That link will be in the decision letter as well. Please share that link with the adults in your life! 6. The  Echols ,  Rodman , and  College Science Scholars  program invitations  will come out next week. I will post an update when I have one. This review round included all applicants (Early Decision, Early Action, and Regular Decision). Echols and Rodman also allow self-nomination after your first semester.   Miller Arts Scholars  apply after the first semester.

Good luck tomorrow night! If you get an offer, we are thrilled to have you considering UVA! We will be in touch by email to let you know about virtual and in-person admitted student events. If this is the end of your time with UVA, best wishes for the rest of your college search. There are exciting times ahead for all of you. I have loved interacting with you here, on Twitter, Instagram, Tiktok, reddit, and Discord. Thank you all for considering UVA! 

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Uva regular decision update.

  I know why you clicked, so here it is:

What time will decisions show up?

Where are the decisions posted, are there early signs of my decision anywhere, are scholar notifications coming.

The second round of review for Echols, Rodman, and College Science Scholars covered Early Decision, Early Action, and Regular Decision students. Notification will be in portals next week. As always, I'll post updates when I have them. 

When will statistics be ready?

I usually receive admission statistics for the round a day before the decision release. As soon as I have data, I'll share it here. 

Wednesday, March 06, 2024

Midyear grades reminder.

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Echols, rodman, and college science scholars notifications.

The Office of Admission reviews all applicants to the College of Arts & Sciences and the School of Engineering for a potential invitation to three scholars programs:   Echols ,   Rodman , and   College Science Scholars . 

The first round of invitations will go to students who applied during the Early Decision and Early Action rounds.  An email with invitations from this first round is going out at 5 PM today  and a short note is being added to portals. 

The second round of invitations will include students from all three rounds and will be posted after the conclusion of the Regular Decision process. Echols and Rodman have a third round that takes place after the first semester (you can self-nominate for that round). 

Congratulations to our first group of scholars for the Class of 2028!

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Enrollment deposit deadline changed to may 15.

Thursday, February 01, 2024

2024 #uva early action admission statistics (unofficial).

These numbers were up to date on Thursday afternoon. If you are a reporter, this data is unofficial and you should contact the  Office of University Communications  for information.

Early Action Applications

Early action offers, some notes:, wednesday, january 31, 2024, #uva early action update.

  Let's just get to the reason you clicked through. 

Where are the decisions posted? 

What time will decisions show up , why is the portal changing is it a sign of my decision .

Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Why february (an early action update).

I've gotten a lot of questions lately about the timeline of the Early Action process. The timeline on our website says we'll have decisions for you on February 15th and that's true -  if you log into your applicant portal on February 15th, I promise your decision will be there. If we finish earlier than that, we will post the decisions and we always let you know here, on our social media accounts (@uvadeanj and @uvaadmission), and by email (the system automatically emails when there's a status change that you haven't seen*).  

The volume of the pool determines the calendar. The last time we were able to release in January, we had 25,000 Early Action applications. We have over 36,000 this season. Of course, we've added staff over the years, but reviewing the number of applications we're getting these days takes time. 

For those who want to predict the future, there are years of posts to explore using the menu on the right side of the page. 

Thursday, December 14, 2023

Unofficial 2023-2024 early decision statistics.

Early Decision students, you all gave us some great apps! I shed a few tears over things you shared, but I got to laugh a lot as well as I learned about you. My favorite essay folder is certainly a little bigger! You're pretty amazing and I look forward to seeing some of you propel UVA forward in the next few years. Now, on to the numbers...

These statistics aren't all that different from the ones I shared last year, so I don't think anyone's going to be surprised by this post. 

Early Decision Applications

Early decision offers, 1. i do not have additional statistics.   we are already immersed in the early action review process and i have files to read tonight 2. decisions will be posted in the applicant portal tomorrow night.   you got login credentials back when we  received  your common app. the system automatically emails students when there is a status change, so you don't have to sit in the portal and refresh.  3. admitted students will get a paper copy of their admission letter by mail. it will take a while for us to get those out.  i can't really predict when the usps will get that into your mailbox.  your enrollment deposit is due by january 15th. 4. waiting list letters have a link to the waiting list faqs on our website.   please go over the information with your parent(s) and counselor. if you'd like to be considered for during the waiting list review, complete the reply form in the portal by march 1st and upload your semester grades when they become available. this takes the place of writing a letter of continued interest (loci).  5. the echols, rodman, and college science scholars program invitations  will be extended at the end of  the early action and regular decision processes. early decision students will be considered in both of those rounds. echols and rodman also allow self-nomination after your first semester. 6.  remember that these numbers are unofficial.   institutional research and analytics   is the source of all official statistics about uva. they take a census to determine the final statistics for the class in the fall. you can see   official admission data   on their website.  if you are a reporter, please contact the  office of university communications  for current, official information., tuesday, december 12, 2023, #uva early decision update.

 Let's just get to the reason you clicked through. 

Wednesday, November 01, 2023

Deadline day reminders.

 Happy EA/ED deadline day! For those of you who have submitted applications (or plan to in the next few hours), I have a few reminders for you.

1. The deadline is for your Common App, not transcripts and recommendations.

2. Applicant portal credentials come by email within a few days of submission.

Within a few days of the Common App reaching us, the student will get an email from [email protected] with login info for the applicant portal.  Consider adding that email address to your email address book. This is also covered in the application instructions! 

Early Decision and Early Action applicants aren't  required  to use the portal, but that's where you can see required credentials get checked off (we don't check in optional items), submit updates, and see your application decision on notification day.

3. Matching up credentials takes time.

The first time you log into your applicant portal, your application may be incomplete. It takes time for credentials to be filed in a new application file. Remember that supporting credentials like transcript and recommendations aren't due today ( again, see the application instructions ).

4. We do not accept resumes, research papers, or portfolios that aren't art supplements.

 Those items are not part of our review. We mention this in several places on our website. Please do not use the "additional information" section of the Common App to submit these items. You don't need to email us anything. The Common App is enough!

5. You aren't applying to a major unless you want to study Nursing or Kinesiology.

This is covered on our website and on the Common App where you select your school of entry. Almost everyone is undeclared when they arrive at UVA. 

6. Common App provides Common App support.

The Common App has a help desk to work with people having technical problems with their website. The colleges that take the Common App don't control the technical parts of the Common App. 

7. You don't need to send us letters of interest. 

Good luck to everyone putting the finishing touches on applications! I'll be going live at 7 PM tonight to answer last minute questions. See you then!

Tuesday, October 24, 2023

Public data about uva admission.

I got a call today from a parent who wanted to see if we would consider their student for two colleges within the University because they were applying to the School of Architecture. The parent's thinking was that the A-school is small and must be much harder to get into than UVA's College of Arts and Sciences. I assured them that wasn't necessary. They were skeptical, so I read the data off our website. I thought I'd share that information here. 

Below, I'm pasting in admission data for the last five admission cycles at UVA.  Remember that residency is also a factor in our review. You can imagine that the Virginia rates are going to be a little higher the numbers shown while the out-of-state rates are lower. Overall, the admission rate for Virginia residents was 27% last year and the rate for out-of-state students was 12%. 

All of this data is public. You can play around with the admission tables on the Institutional Research and Analytics page  if you'd like to see more (don't miss the tabs at the top). I couldn't fit the full pages into my screen grabs, so head over to the charts to see yield and this same info presented in table format.

College of Arts and Sciences

School of Architecture

School of Engineering

School of Nursing

Kinesiology (housed in the School of Education and Human Development)

Wednesday, October 11, 2023

A note about third party sites.

Friday, September 08, 2023

Fall 2023 virtual event series.

Our virtual program options for this fall are going to go beyond the general information session and include sessions with specialized content. We'll be emailing all of the students on our mailing list about registering for these sessions ( you can add yourself on our website ), but I thought I'd share the schedule here. 

First-Year Admission Process  

Common app 101  , why uva: student panel  , hoo’s talking: diversity at uva  , financial aid at uva  , transfer admission process  , wednesday, september 06, 2023, mcintire school of commerce changes.

I usually stick to application updates here, but I think this news is big enough that it should get some space here.

The McIntire School of Commerce, the undergraduate business school at UVA, has offered a two -year major (along with minors and an MS in Commerce) for years. Starting next year, the program will become a three year program. For full details, see the official press release from August 29th on the McIntire website . 

First year applicants interested in McIntire's Commerce major will still start in the College of Arts and Sciences. There will be changes in how transfer from outside of UVA works, but that will be covered on the transfer blog at a later time. 

Tuesday, August 29, 2023

Reviewing the common app activities section in the uva admission process.

A new student asked the UVA reddit subforum how to get off some of the club listserves they joined. It's inevitable that people who sign up for a few too many clubs realize that they have to cut back. It reminded me that it's been a while since I've written about what we are looking for when it comes to the Common App activity section.

Before I get into that, though, let me restate what we make clear in our application instructions, on the Common App, and on our contact page: we do not accept resumes with applications here . We want applicants to fill out the activity section of the Common App. With 56,000 applications, it's important that we be able to read efficiently. The consistent format of the Common App is helpful. We also hope it makes things simpler for applicants. The Common App is enough.  

Now, let's talk about that section...

The activity section shows us where you've chosen to spend your time outside the classroom during high school. This is both a "getting to know you" section and a section to see ways you might get involved in the future. There are many ways and venues in which to make a contribution - through work in the classroom, research, at a job, in student organizations (we call them CIOs here), in the residence hall, around Charlottesville, etc.  

1.  We don't value certain activities over others.

There are over 900 student organizations at UVA. All of those CIOs make UVA the interesting, innovative, and fun place that it is. Whether you are involved in the most popular club at your school or the most obscure one, we'll be happy that you are making a difference in some facet of your school or community.

2. Few students fill the Common App activity chart.

Our review isn't about who has the longest list, it's about understanding the activities that have been important to the student over the last few years. The length of your list is not a factor in our review. Most students don't exhaust the spaces available in this section. 

3. You don't have to show consistency.

If you are one of the lucky students who found an activity you love early on and have maintained involvement in it throughout high school, that's wonderful! If your interests have evolved over time, you are totally normal! Most applicants are at an age where interests evolve and new ones emerge. You are allowed to change your mind about your activities. Please don't apologize if your activities haven't been long-term. It's fine if your activity list shortens a little bit in junior and/or senior year. As academic responsibilities increase, it makes sense to reshuffle your priorities and let one or two activities fall by the wayside. If you don't have to do this in high school, you'll certainly have to do it in college like the student in our reddit subforum found out the other day! 

4. Descriptions don't have to be elaborate.

I've seen some "experts" online who spent a lot of time telling students their activity descriptions have to be exceptionally powerful or witty. For UVA, that's just not the case. Give us a line or two about your involvement and move on. What's more, there are sometimes activities that don't need explanations, at least for an admission officer. For example, I once had a student include statistics about weightlifting. The numbers didn't mean anything to me and I could acknowledged they dedicated time to the activity without them. 

5. We aren't literally assembling an orchestra.

This is very specific, but the idea that admission officers are charged with literally assembling an orchestra with a certain number of chairs for each instrument has been going around since I was applying to college . UVA admission officers aren't charged with finding someone who plays the French horn to fit some French horn "slot." While a coach might be concerned with filling certain positions or events for their sport, the admission office at UVA is not admitting or denying people based on what instrument they play. 

What questions do you have about how activities come into play during the UVA application review?

Wednesday, August 09, 2023

Why gpas don't drive admission decisions at uva.

It's pretty common to hear students say "I don't want to be a number." However, a lot of people cite a GPA when they approach admission officers and expect us to gauge a student's chances of admission. This is why we try to explain why the numbers don't drive our decision. Let's go over two major points to remember...

GPAs aren't standardized. 

GPAs don't convey coursework or trends.

If you have questions, feel free to put them in the comments or join me for my next live q&a, this Thursday at 3 PM on Instagram . 

Tuesday, July 18, 2023

2023-2024 uva writing prompts.

Confession: I really liked last year's writing prompts . We had only been reading applications for a few days when I first marveled at how well students were expressing themselves in the new short answer portion of our application. During one of my live q&a sessions on Instagram , I wondered if students being able to write meaningful, concise statements was a function of growing up writing captions on social media...something for people to study one day!

In the past, a few admission officers have met to go over feedback about the application essays to see if we should tweak the writing prompts. This year, we had a lot more input during the update process. The change is pretty big: most applicants will answer one prompt for the UVA portion of the Common App. Those applying to the School of Nursing will answer two. 

So let's get to the prompts. 

All Applicants (250 words or less)

School of nursing (250 words or less), monday, june 26, 2023, 2023 waiting list update.

If you watch   my weekly live q&a sessions on Instagram , you've heard me talk about the waiting list a few times already, but I have an official update for the waiting list from Greg Roberts, the Associate VP of Enrollment and Undergraduate Admission. This update is going into portals and will go out by email momentarily. 

Tuesday, May 02, 2023

Waiting list update for #uva27.

At this point, it looks like most offers will be made to out-of-state, College of Arts and Sciences students , though there will be some offers made to Virginians and people in the smaller schools. If you've been reading the statistics posts on the blog, you know that Virginians tend to yield at a higher rate (that means say "yes" back to an offer of admission).

This is going to take time. Waiting list work happens in waves. For the rest of the week, we'll be reviewing applications from students who opted into the waiting list and going over additional information they may have submitted via their portals. Once me make an offer, the student gets a few days to think about it. Students waiting on a financial aid package will get a few days from the time their aid package is posted to SIS. Another factor to consider is melt. 

Melt (sometimes referred to as "Summer Melt") happens when students who accepted offers of admission decide that they aren't coming after all. You can see melt happen as schools go to their waiting lists. Someone who deposited at School A might get off the waiting list at School B and decide to withdraw from School A to accept that new offer. So, even if we fill spots that are available right now, on May 2nd, there may be other spots that open up later because of waiting list movement at other schools. 

The offers will go out via email at the end of the week. I will post a more specific update on my social accounts, if possible.

By the way, this blog is about the first year admission process. The UVA Transfer Blog is linked in the menu and will provide information for students on the transfer waiting list when there is news to share. 

Thursday, April 27, 2023

Student takeover: andy nguyen.

For the next few weeks, students will be taking over  the UVA Admission account on instagram (@uvaadmission) . I thought I'd introduce each student here before they start posting on the account. Keep an eye on our Instagram stories to hear from Andy!

Name: Andy Nguyen Hometown:   Eastland, TX Major:   Psychology in the College of Arts and Sciences and   Youth and Social Innovation in the School of Education Activities:  The Raven Society, Sigma Phi Epsilon, QuestBridge, HoosConnected, No Tones Acapella, Vietnamese Student Association, and Madison House. Outside of extracurriculars: working with Cavalier Connect Fundraising and involved with multiple research labs on-grounds.

Favorite uva memory:  culturefest, where organizations came together to showcase their unique cultural dances, outfits, and foods in the amphitheater, or the midnight snowball fight during third year. .

Tuesday, April 25, 2023

Student takeover: lili gomez.

  For the next few weeks, students will be taking over  the UVA Admission account on instagram (@uvaadmission) . I thought I'd introduce each student here before they start posting on the account. Keep an eye on our Instagram stories to hear from Lili!

Name:  Lili Gomez Hometown:   Woodbridge, VA Major:   Computer Science in the School of Engineering, Spanish minor in the College of Arts and Sciences Activities:  SHPE at UVA (the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers), Girls Who Code, and Dressember. From SHPE, I was able to get an internship with Apple. After Graduation:  I'll be a full time software engineer at Apple.

Favorite uva memory:  some of my favorite memories at uva were spending time in the center for diversity in engineering with all my school friends, and my semester abroad in valencia, spain..

Wednesday, April 19, 2023

Student takeover: sydney mannion.

For the next few weeks, students will be taking over  the UVA Admission account on instagram (@uvaadmission) . I thought I'd introduce each student here before they start posting on the account. Keep an eye on our Instagram stories to hear from Sydney!

Name:  Sydney Mannion Hometown:   South Orange, NJ Major:   I will probably be a Psychology major with a Sociology minor in the College of Arts and Sciences Activities:  Mixed Race Student Coalition,  Hydra Club Ultimate Frisbee, Blueprint Leadership Program, working as a research assistant in the Social Cognition and Behavior Lab, and the Echols scholars program.

Tuesday, April 11, 2023

Student takeover: isabella koch.

    For the next few weeks, students will be taking over  the UVA Admission account on instagram (@uvaadmission) . I thought I'd introduce each student here before they start posting on the account. Keep an eye on our Instagram stories to hear from Isabella!

Name:  Isabella Koch Hometown:   Loudoun County, VA Major:   Architecture in the School of Architecture with minors in Civil Engineering and Spanish Activities:  I am a student ambassador for the A-School, very involved in outdoors club and love to climb, event coordinator for an architecture  organization called AIAS, working wardrobe for the spring drama production, and involved in various intramurals (volleyball, ultimate  frisbee, softball, and soccer) .

Favorite uva memory:  my favorite memories at uva come from either hiking with friends in the shenandoah , going to food trucks on fridays  with my best friends, working in the architecture  studios with my friends all day, and playing intramural volleyball with my friends when none of us had every played volleyball before. .

UVA Essay Examples

Uva essay examples – introduction.

In this guide, we’ll learn about the University of Virginia supplemental essays through several UVA essay examples. We’ve included UVA supplemental essays examples, addressing various UVA essay prompts to teach you what a successful essay looks like. After each, we’ll discuss the parts of these UVA essays that worked. Read on to learn more about writing strong University of Virginia essays.

University of Virginia background

The University of Virginia is a public research university located in Charlottesville, Virginia. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, today UVA is home to over 27,000 undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate students. With UVA ranking among the top U.S. public universities, thousands of UVA applications flood the University of Virginia admissions annually. Of all the UVA application requirements, the University of Virginia supplemental essays are perhaps the most important aside from grades.

What are the UVA Supplemental Essays?

Ultimately, applicants to UVA will write three essays. The first has a 100-word limit, while the other two are 50 words or fewer. Since the UVA application is part of the Common Application , you’ll also need a personal statement .

When you apply to UVA through the Common App , you must choose to apply to one of UVA’s five schools and colleges. The school or college you select on your UVA application is an important decision as it will determine one of three essays that you will write. Below is a list of UVA’s five schools and colleges and their respective essay prompts.

University of Virginia- School-Specific Essays (100 words)

I. college of arts & sciences.

If you could create a college course that all UVA students would take, what would it be about and why? 

II. School of Engineering

How will you use an engineering degree to change the world for the better? 

III. School of Architecture

Describe a significant experience that deepened your interest in studying at the School of Architecture. 

IV. School of Nursing

Describe a healthcare-related experience or another significant interaction that deepened your interest in studying Nursing. 

V. Kinesiology Program

Describe an experience that has deepened your interest in studying kinesiology.

Mind the word limits

This first University of Virginia essay has a word limit of 100 words. For your second and third essays for the University of Virginia, you will choose from a list of eleven UVA essay prompts. Remember, the last two University of Virginia essays have a word limit of only 50-words. Below are the prompts students must choose from.

UVA Essay Prompts- Choose Two 

• What’s your favorite word and why?
• We are a community with quirks, both in language and in traditions. What is one of your quirks?
• About what topic could you speak for an hour?
• Take us to your happy place.
• You can wake up tomorrow and a skill you already have will become expert-level. What skill is that?
• What is the last gift you gave someone that wasn’t bought with money?
• What website is the internet missing?
• After a challenging experience, how do you recharge?
• Tell us about a place you’d like to share with everyone, but also keep to yourself.
• UVA students paint messages on Beta Bridge when they want to share information with our community. What would you paint on Beta Bridge and why is this your message?
• Tell us about a time when, faced with an opinion or perspective that differed from your own, you responded as an empathetic speaker or generous listener.

Essay prompts do change

If you’ve read our University of Virginia supplemental essays guide from last year, you may be scratching your head. Weren’t there only two required University of Virginia essays? Well, the University of Virginia admissions team has changed the UVA application requirements when it comes to essays. This isn’t uncommon—college essay prompts usually change in some way from year to year. But the University of Virginia supplemental essays and UVA essay prompts have seen a pretty big change.

As a result of this change, the UVA supplemental essays examples we’ve included below may not exactly reflect this year’s UVA essay prompts. However, reading our UVA essay examples and other college essay examples can still help you brainstorm for other essays.

UVA Essay Examples – Prompt #1

To kick off our UVA supplemental essays examples, we have three UVA essays addressing a singular prompt. As mentioned above, the UVA essay prompts have changed pretty drastically this year. Therefore, this prompt isn’t part of this year’s UVA application. However, these UVA essays that worked have some strengths you can apply to any college essay.

Even if these UVA essay examples are different from what you’ll write, it’s good to consider how you might approach different essay prompts . 

Our First Essay Example Prompt

So, for UVA essay prompts like the one below, what should strong UVA essay examples have in common? Obviously, the work you choose should have impacted you deeply. However, it doesn’t have to be a world-famous work: it could be a manga, a theorem, or a video game. Most importantly, the impact this work had on you should reflect something about you, your values, or your worldview.

At the end of the day, successful UVA supplemental essays examples share traits with all effective college essays. They address the prompt, tell a compelling story, and shine a spotlight on you. Strong UVA supplemental essays examples, even short ones, add depth to your personal narrative — so make every word count! With that in mind, let’s look at three UVA essay examples for this prompt.

What work of art, music, science, mathematics, literature, or other media has surprised, unsettled, or inspired you, and in what way?

Uva essays that worked #1.

Staring blankly at a black square, I pull on my hair in frustration. As my teacher announces that there are three minutes left on the test, my frustrations turn into rage and I burst out in the middle of class: “How do we analyze this? This isn’t art!”

My love-hate relationship with Kazimir Malevich’s Black Square piece started when my middle school art teacher told us to analyze his work on a test.

Although I wasn’t a renowned artist, I thought Kazimir’s Black Square was nowhere near art. How could someone paint a black square, declare it art, and then call it a day? My dislike for Kazimir’s art, however, changed when I learned about the context behind his artwork. I became fascinated by how Kazimir was able to use his artwork to completely revitalize people’s definition of “art”. As I learned about Kazimir’s motives I had an epiphany: the Black Square was more than just… well, a black square. Instead, it was a revolutionary tool used to deconstruct reality and form a new perception of art.

To this day, Kazimir has taught me to not let my preconceptions of reality shape how I process information. I realized the importance of striving to understand cultures, identities, and ideas that are different from mine rather than reject them because of my preconceptions. With this in mind, I learned that any idea or concept is not static and can be expanded and changed; it’s imperative to not reject any ideas that are different from my own to expand my own understanding of a concept.

It’s safe to say that my 12-year-old self was wrong: black squares can be art too.

Why This Essay Worked

Most essay guides, ours included, will hammer home the effectiveness of narrative essays. This doesn’t make a narrative structure essential—as we’ll see, plenty of UVA essays that worked aren’t narratives. However, UVA essay examples that open with some action or scene have the power to instantly grab a reader’s attention. The vivid language this author uses in their opening to frame their topic quickly conveys their frustration.

Regardless of how they hook readers, strong UVA supplemental essays examples for any prompt will look inward. After the opening, the author talks about how their perspective changed. This is what the prompt asks, and strong UVA essay examples like this clearly define that change. Again, impactful language illustrates how the author’s new understanding of Kazimir’s work widened their perspective on art.

The author concludes by connecting their revelations from Kazimir to their worldview as a whole. All of these UVA essay examples show admissions officers who the author is and what they consider important. Effective UVA supplemental essays examples illustrate your values or background and how you’ll enrich the campus community with them. In your University of Virginia essays, be reflective in your writing to allow your principles to shine through.

Another Response to the First Prompt

Uva essays that worked #2.

I think that this is best answered by sharing the letter I wrote the author after reading A Place for Us :

Reading has always been my favorite escape, my favorite pastime. Only, your book was never an escape, but a mirror: the first time I saw my life truly reflected in literature, and not because you told an Indian-American story. I felt as though you had written my story, because of the raw and honest meditation on family that your book centers on. 

As is true with many immigrant families, my family resorts to anger often too quickly. We shy away from expressing love. I have cried out that I hated my father on more than one occasion and passionately believed it to be true each time, just like Amar did to Rafiq. As I read Rafiq’s dying words to Amar at the end of the book, expressing his regret, his love for his son–I couldn’t stop crying because suddenly, I saw my family in a completely different light. Not that we will never disagree or fight again, but I began to consider all that goes unsaid between us. A lack of communication caused their family to fall apart, and it made me examine the cracks in mine. 

Behind the anger is almost always love, and while I’ve known this subconsciously, there is something about seeing your struggles outside the context of your own life that forces you to confront the truth about them. I’m endlessly indebted to you, in awe of you, and I needed to say thank you. I cannot begin to express how much this book truly means to me, but I have tried to explain a little portion of my love for it. Thank you, Ms. Mirza, for my new favorite book. I will carry it with me always. Sincerely, [NAME REDACTED]

The second of our UVA essay examples also has a compelling frame: it’s a letter to an author. This opening immediately tells us just how deeply this work moved the applicant. It’s a unique hook among UVA supplemental essays examples. If you have a fresh frame, don’t be shy! This structure works because it allows the author to be emotionally open as well as specific in discussing the work.

By virtue of the subject, this University of Virginia essay is inseparable from the author’s background. Like all good UVA essay examples, this essay reflects on the author’s experiences. Instead of simply praising the book, the author connects it to their place within their family relationships. They describe how it gave them a different perspective on their family and a new awareness going forward.

Ideal UVA supplemental essays examples show readers that the author can reflect on and grow from their experiences. This author checks that box by illustrating the connections among the book, their experiences, and how they’ve reflected on both. Furthermore, they recognize the new ways they view their life and relationships thanks to this book. That’s growth! Take note of these UVA essay examples and include moments of personal growth in your essays whenever possible.

A Final Response to the First Prompt

Uva essays that worked #3.

I’m a firm believer that J.G Quintel’s Regular Show is the only TV series capable of portraying an apocalyptic, flesh-hungry black hole spiraling out of the skies while an anthropomorphic blue jay, Mordecai, and raccoon, Rigby, play nearly one hundred tied games of rock, paper, scissors. I knew that there was only one way for Mordecai and Rigby to preserve the world as they knew it; the tie had to be broken.

Wait a second—How does declaring the victor of a stupid hand game dictate world order? J.G, how did you forget to add “Ir-” in front of your show’s title?

This was just the pilot episode and I had witnessed a revolution in children’s television programming: an animated one that struck an undeniably perfect balance between science fiction and satire. Regular Show fascinates me in that its supernatural occurrences aren’t unreasonably dramatic and its humor is intentionally well-played and witty. I would argue that episodes of Regular Show embrace the beauty of tragicomedies in roughly the same way that Plautus, the Roman creator of tragicomedies, intended to in his famed work, Amphitryon. Quintel, however, captivates me with a compelling twist. He ditches traditional Greco-Roman tragicomic themes of seduction and envy and models his artform around a more bizarre construct: randomness.

The only constant in Regular Show is the mere existence of the main characters; every other component of the show is wildly variable. The structure of the show is liquid as it is free flowing and takes the shape of its container, or the viewer’s interpretation. Although I’ve come to understand most of the conundrums my prepubescent self was unable to comprehend, it still baffles me as to how Regular Show can weave together the most unrelated and paradoxical concepts into an animated, twelve-minute masterpiece.

As exemplified see in our UVA essay examples, a distinct writer’s voice can immediately elevate a supplemental essay. The lines following the first paragraph, where the author asks a rhetorical question, inject some humor. After that, the use of strong language like “revolution,” “undeniably perfect,” and “fascinates” convey the writer’s admiration for Regular Show. Don’t be afraid to embrace expressive words like the ones you’ve read in our UVA supplemental essays examples. Still, remember not to go overboard with a thesaurus to the point where you’re using complex words insincerely.

For this author, the impact of their selected work is creative, like the first of our UVA essay examples. They explore what it is about Regular Show that captivates them, even drawing parallels to Greco-Roman tragicomedy. That’s not to say you have to cite Plautus—most UVA essays that worked probably didn’t mention Amphitryon. But by linking those together, we understand that this author enjoys classical plays as well as finding connections across media.

Rather than telling the reader about their love of classics or literature, this author lets their analysis speak for itself. This University of Virginia essay shows us the author is thoughtful toward the media they interact with, from cartoons to classics. Strong UVA essay examples will show — not tell — the reader what’s important to you.

UVA Essay Examples – Flash Seminar Prompt

Although the three UVA essay examples above responded to an old prompt, we hope they were helpful. Reading various UVA essays that worked can help you write your own, regardless of the prompt. Remember, all good UVA essay examples have something to teach you. The next of our UVA supplemental essays examples is also for an old prompt. 

Student self-governance, which encourages student investment and initiative, is a hallmark of the UVA culture. In her fourth year at UVA, Laura Nelson was inspired to create Flash Seminars, one-time classes which facilitate high-energy discussion about thought-provoking topics outside of traditional coursework. If you created a Flash Seminar, what idea would you explore and why?

In truth, this prompt is somewhat similar to the prompt for College of Arts & Sciences applicants. If you could create a college course that all UVA students would take, what would it be about and why? Even though the focus may be somewhat different, effective UVA supplemental essays examples for both prompts should have the same takeaway: what topic do you consider important, and why?

Strong UVA essay examples for this prompt are specific about the topic. Moreover, we still need to consider the tips from our previous UVA essays that worked. The author is personal, referencing and reflecting on their interests, experiences, or goals. With that in mind, let’s look at the next of our UVA supplemental essays examples.

UVA Essays That Worked – Flash Seminar

Before I could even read, The Lorax was my favorite book. When my dad read the book to me, I instantly fell in love with the cotton-like trees and the small orange creature with a mustache. While I still love the cartoonish illustrations, The Lorax remains my favorite book, to this day, because of another reason: it exemplifies how consumerism driven by Capitalism can harm the environment.

So, should the U.S. abandon Capitalism and force everyone to become hunters and gatherers? That would be quite effective, but we don’t have to. My seminar would address how we could use consumerism to protect the environment. For people who think that an individual’s actions to protect the environment are insignificant, this seminar will prove them wrong. People will learn how the money they spend in companies can shape how companies act. While environmental protection is not a priority for most companies, the power of consumerism that individuals have can force companies to care about our environment. Most importantly, the seminar will be a call to action, encouraging people to take initiative for the sake of humanity’s future. The audience would leave the seminar knowledgeable about the ways in which they can use consumerism to create the change that the world needs.

While the damage done to our environment is immense, it’s not too late to change. One small action at a time, I know that humanity can create substantial environmental reform: one that will even make the Lorax proud.

Some UVA essay examples reference the author’s childhood, like this one, to demonstrate a longstanding interest. In their opening paragraph, the author shows how their understanding of The Lorax has grown with them. Where they once saw cute illustrations, they now see an insightful commentary on consumerism and the environment. Already, we see the personal growth that characterizes many of our UVA essays that worked. 

Successful UVA supplemental essays examples that address academic topics include the author’s personal thoughts on the topic. After all, the prompt asks why it’s important to you —so what do you think about it? This author briefly outlines their position: consumers can pressure companies to protect the environment. Additionally, they state their goals for the seminar as a call to action for participants as consumers. Effective UVA essay examples for this prompt should also consider the course’s impact on others.

Obviously, there are as many topics as there are UVA essay examples. You don’t have to choose a sweeping topic like environmentally conscious consumerism—maybe you choose accessible design or internet safety. Whatever the topic, UVA essays that worked for this prompt concisely explained why that topic is significant to the author. More importantly, the best UVA essay examples also make a compelling case for why other people should learn about the topic.

UVA Essay Examples – “Quirks” Prompt

For the last of our UVA essay examples, we’re looking at a prompt from the 2022–2023 list. 

We are a community with quirks, both in language and in traditions. Describe one of your quirks and why it is part of who you are.

Whereas UVA essay examples in previous years had a 300-word limit, responses to this prompt are limited to 50 words. Keep the limited space in mind when reading the last of our UVA essay examples. Every word counts in college essays, but especially so for short essays. If you’re worried about sticking to the word limit, don’t worry. We’ll talk more about crafting your University of Virginia supplemental essays in the next section.

So, how do you approach UVA essay prompts like this? Well, whatever quirk you choose should be one that is “part of who you are.” What’s a behavior, trait, or habit that anyone who knows you could name? Maybe you sing your way through every day, or perhaps you write exclusively in cursive. Why is it integral to You ? Let’s see what the last of our UVA essay examples has to say.

UVA Essays That Worked – Quirks

While the rest of my body lies in the third dimension, my feet seem to remain entrenched in the second. 

Envision prancing through a never-ending bed of thorns; that’s almost how walking with flat feet feels. Essentially robbed of the rewards of exercise, I never became as tall as I once aspired to be. At age seventeen, I stand at a “solid” five foot four: the average height of a middle schooler. With the help of my toes, however, I’ve always been able to propel myself by an extra two inches while creating a temporary arch to relieve my feet of their chronic soreness. In other words, they’re natural stilts. It was the perfect remedy; ever since my years as a toddler, I’ve never fell off from the tips of my toes.

Of course, I have to deal with my fair share of criticism from my others or as I refer to them, my arch-enemies: usually taller people, whose feet were blessed with arches. I hear everything from “You’re not Peter Pan; why are you walking like a fairy?” to “Maybe you should invest in heels instead of tiptoeing.” To their dismay, I pay them no mind; their “advice” only detracts from my walk. Just like the Hulk’s aggressive lunges add to his grotesque demeanor, my light tiptoed gallops never fail to remind my peers of my classiness and jubilance. Not to mention, tiptoeing also upholds my composure even in the most unflattering situations. Although someone might expect stomps and a vulgar confrontation from me, my tiptoes signal a more diplomatic approach to conflicts, maybe even over a cup of chai.

Chances are that my feet will not enter the next dimension any time soon. I’ll still much rather — proudly — teeter 150 pounds over ten feeble appendages.

Again, many impactful UVA essay examples have a distinctive voice—some wry, others poetic. This author’s quirk is flat feet, a condition they describe tongue-in-cheek as very painful. If your quirk is something that bothers you, consider addressing it with humor if that is how you confront it in your life. Well-executed humor can leave a lasting impression on any reader, especially when applied ironically to an otherwise negative subject.

This writer’s cheeky praise of their toe-walking highlights their ability to make the best of their situation. It demonstrates their confidence and comfort with how they are—or perhaps, how they have to be. From this essay, a reader sees someone who faces adversity with humor while not negating their experience. This author frames flat feet as an irritant while using them to illustrate how they deal with negativity.

Effective UVA essay examples for this prompt contain layers: the quirk also says something about the author. As you think of your quirk, consider which ones can be used to illuminate a deeper truth about you. This could be something about how you learn or how you interact with the world around you. 

How to write the UVA Supplemental Essays

Now that you’ve read several UVA essay examples, we hope you feel ready to write your own University of Virginia supplemental essays. The first step in writing your University of Virginia essays is choosing from the UVA essay prompts. Luckily, the first prompt is chosen for you based on your school of choice. The second and third ones will come from the list of 11 prompts.

When evaluating the short-answer prompts, you may feel you could write something for all of them—or none of them. Try some different reflection exercises to organize your ideas and get those writing juices flowing. Since our UVA essay examples for these prompts are pretty short, you could try your hand and a handful of the prompts. Then, you can further rewrite and refine the ones that speak to you.

Each of the longer prompts is rather common among supplemental essays , so there’s no shortage of college essay guides out there. In writing your longer essay, you can brainstorm various topics to figure out your focus. Pick what you’re passionate about. Unlike our UVA essay examples, essays that aren’t genuine are really obvious. Go for honesty, and highlight your unique qualities and experiences through your topic.

Don’t forget the editing stage if you really want your essays to shine ! Revising your essays—both on your own and with another person—can weed out errors you may have missed on a first pass.

Additional UVA Essays & the UVA Admissions Process

If you’re looking at the best colleges in the U.S. during your college search , you might consider applying to UVA. UVA ranks highly for both undergraduate and graduate programs every year. The UVA acceptance rate is rather low, at just 21% . Given the high UVA ranking and low UVA acceptance rate, we can tell it’s a selective university. As a result, the University of Virginia supplemental essays are critical for a strong UVA application.

With UVA ranking consistently high and the UVA acceptance rate staying low, acceptance to UVA isn’t guaranteed. To be considered, you need to be sure to meet all of the UVA application requirements.

University of Virginia Application Requirements

• University of Virginia supplemental essays
• One academic teacher recommendation
• Guidance counselor recommendation (optional)
• Standardized test score (optional for 2022–2023 cycle)
• Common Application requirements: activity list , personal statement , etc.

At the time of publication, the Early Decision and Early Action deadlines have already passed for Fall 2023 applicants. The Regular Decision deadline for Fall 2023 applicants is January 1, 2023.

These days, having a high GPA alone isn’t enough. With University of Virginia admissions being test-optional this year, the rest of the application is weighted more heavily, especially for those who don’t submit test scores. Your essays and letters of recommendation provide an important window into who you are and what kind of UVA student you’ll be.

What about additional essays? UVA offers two merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students. One of these, the Jefferson Scholarship, requires two additional essays. While UVA isn’t among the most expensive universities , it still costs five figures per semester. In addition to financial aid, scholarships can help with the cost of college once you enroll .

More University of Virginia Resources to Support You

After reading the UVA essay examples above, maybe you feel ready to jump into the UVA application. Or, you might be looking for more UVA supplemental essays examples and UVA essays that worked. Or maybe you’re still unsure about UVA and just want to learn more. CollegeAdvisor.com has countless resources for you to explore, however you’re feeling.

If you want to hear more about UVA from alumni and current students, check out our webinar panel . The participants talk about their experiences at UVA in and out of the classroom. They also discuss the University of Virginia admissions process and their UVA application experience.

University of Virginia Panel

For more about crafting a successful application overall, we have a how-to get-into UVA guide . The UVA ranking isn’t dropping any time soon, but the acceptance rate will almost certainly stay selective. If you want to maximize your odds of admission, check out our guide.

How to Get Into University of Virginia (UVA) Guide

Lastly, we have an essay guide for the University of Virginia supplemental essays. Instead of providing UVA essay examples, it digs deep into last year’s prompts. You might even recognize some of the prompts from the UVA supplemental essays examples we just read. Although the UVA essay prompts have changed this year, our guide still provides valuable tips that can help you write any college essay.

University of Virginia (UVA) Supplemental Essays Guide: 2021-2022

UVA Essay Examples – Final Thoughts

The UVA acceptance rate makes it a selective school, so every part of your application counts. Writing strong University of Virginia supplemental essays is essential to crafting a stand-out application.

We hope reading our UVA essay examples and discussing areas of these UVA essays that worked has given you an idea of how to get started. Remember, although the essay prompts have changed, these UVA essay examples are still useful.  Take some time to review our UVA essay examples, make a list of things you want to incorporate into your UVA essays, and get writing!

This article was written by Chelsea Holley . Looking for more admissions support? Click  here  to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how  CollegeAdvisor.com  can support you in the college application process.

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How to Write the University of Virginia Supplement Essays 2017-2018

The University of Virginia is one of the nation’s top public schools, boasting a rich and storied history. Founded in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson, the university has produced many famous alumni, ranging from Woodrow Wilson to Tina Fey. It is located in Charlottesville, Virginia, a two-hour drive from Washington, D.C.

The university definitely has a large school feel, as over 20,000 students call it home. With a combination of D-1 athletics and a nearby college town, UVA attracts students from across the country. It boasts impressive academic programs across the board, with some exceptionally famous ones in political science, economics, engineering, and business. It also offers the Jefferson Scholarship, one of the most famous college scholarship programs in the country; each year, a few dozen students are offered a full ride and extra opportunities on top of an already fantastic education.

Ranking in the top 25 colleges according to U.S. World and News Report , it should not surprise you that many students would like to attend this great university. However, with an acceptance rate of 30%, and potential scholarships on the line, writing solid essays will significantly impact your admissions outcome.

Luckily, we here at CollegeVine are here to help. Read on for our advice on how to tackle the UVA essays!

Want to learn what University of Virginia will actually cost you based on your income? And how long your application to the school should take?  Here’s what every student considering University of Virginia needs to know.

University of Virginia Required Essay

For the required essay, you have a choice between four different prompts. Each is capped at 250 words, so pick the prompt you can answer the best. The following sections will demonstrate strategies to choose, approach, and execute the required prompts.

Prompt 1: Favorite Word

What’s your favorite word and why (250 words).

Let’s start off by talking about what you shouldn’t do. Simply put, don’t be boring! If either your word or its explanation isn’t memorable, you won’t be memorable either. For example, words like “happy” and “hope” are as generic as it gets. You might think Google is your friend here, but the “Top 10 Favorite Words” listicle you find will also be found by hundreds of other applicants.

What would a successful UVA applicant do here? Find a word that allows you to convey a story, to connect a broader narrative to the prompt. In many writing supplements, the chosen topic matters less than how you convey your answer; this is the perfect example of such a situation.

A great answer could center around your multilingualism; if your second language was English, you could pick a word you struggled pronouncing as you grew up. This would be a launchpad to write about the unique struggles and benefits of growing up in a culturally diverse household. Alternatively, if you love math, you can pick a funny or multi-faceted math term like “non-abelian” and tie it into your overarching story about this passion. Either way, the essay should focus on your personal experience with the word — it’s not necessarily an etymological study of the word itself!

Now, we should also discuss how to actually write this essay. First off, don’t wait too long to show the reader what your favorite word is. Start with a hook — a quote of the first time you heard the word, for example, or a brief anecdote to provide context. You could set the stage with an exposition for the story to follow. Try not to say “my favorite word is ____” as your first sentence; nothing screams “stale” more than that!

Then you can follow the introduction with a pivot to the specific word. Make sure you explore both aspects of its “meaning.” That is, reference the dictionary definition of the word, but also dive into its real meaning to you. If your favorite word is “begin,” you could first define it as “to start something” and then explain that it was your grandfather’s perennial advice.

A powerful conclusion will stick in the readers’ heads, so try to write one! Tie the threads together: The word and story might still be disjoint. Continuing our example from before, you might say how, whenever you have a seemingly impossible task in front of you, you can see your late grandfather telling you “begin!” Even though your grandfather is no longer with you, he is still the greatest motivator in your life. Now, you look forward to new beginnings in college and beyond.

Prompt 2: Quirks

We are a community with quirks, both in language and in traditions. describe one of your quirks and why it is part of who you are. (250 words).

You’re unique! Embrace it! There’s gotta be something you do differently, something that your family or friends point out as unordinary. Maybe your laugh is a distinct cackle, or maybe you exhibit nocturnal habits. Describe not only what your quirk is, but how it has affected and evolved throughout your life. Don’t write about a “quirk” that hundreds of other applicants have; your gelled hair or agnosticism are not quirks.

Make sure your essay also conveys to the university what you would contribute to the Class of 2022. This is more than just the quirk you talk about; if your essay shows a sense of humor or general likability, you’ll be much better off than someone else with just an interesting quirk. You have to be careful however, employing humor can be difficult. Poke fun at yourself and how your quirk has put you in some particularly humorous situations. Just make sure the overall tone is positive; you’re not out to harshly criticize yourself in this essay.

As you write your essay, illustrate a story about how this quirk is essential to who you are. For example, if your loud laugh has gotten you in trouble before, you could start with a quote from your teacher admonishing you to be quiet. Then, you could talk about how that laugh has followed you all through your life, giving some short examples as evidence. Finally, you could conclude with how you’ve come to accept that you’re laugh isn’t going to change and that your new classmates will hopefully be fine with it.

Alternatively, an example of a quirk that’s more of a “tradition” might be how you cook a culturally authentic breakfast every morning. You could start with a description of the smells, colors, and ingredients associated with the meal. Then you could transition into explaining its significance to you and your family. Finally, you could conclude with expressing your desire to continue the tradition at UVA and even share the dish with your future roommate.

Prompt 3: Flash Seminar

Student self-governance, which encourages student investment and initiative, is a hallmark of the uva culture. in her fourth year at uva, laura nelson was inspired to create flash seminars, one-time classes which facilitate high-energy discussion about thought-provoking topics outside of traditional coursework. if you created a flash seminar, what idea would you explore and why (250 words).

This is just a proxy to ask, “What interests you?” That is, what interests you enough that you’d want to share that passion with a handful of University of Virginia students? You can let your creativity run wild here; if you have a niche interest, this is the perfect place to mention it. An answer like “Designing and Testing Role Playing Games” is a lot better than “Economics 101.” Alternatively, think about two interests you have. For example, if you like cartoon shows and politics, a class called “The Politics of Cartoon Shows” will definitely catch the eye of an admissions officer.

A unique answer is especially important on this question. The University of Virginia probably gets hundreds of answers about hot button political topics like abortion and affirmative action. They also probably get dozens of “What is the Meaning of Life?” and “Would you kill baby Hitler?” Bottom line, if someone else is going to have the same answer as you, you’re probably doing something wrong.

Suppose you write about “The Politics of Cartoon Shows.” Start by describing how and why politics and cartoon shows interest you. Then write about what you’d explore with the class: the power dynamics in SpongeBob SquarePants or the political messaging in Sesame Street.

You could even go into depth about how you would design the curriculum of the seminar, as well as individual classes. In terms of learning outcomes, you can express what you hope other students would get out of such a lesson; here, students would see how shows targeted at the youngest among us are not free from political considerations.

Prompt 4: Beta Bridge

Uva students paint messages on beta bridge when they want to share information with our community. what would you paint on beta bridge and why is this your message (250 words).

If you’ve participated in any significant form of activism, this is the essay for you. For example, a feminist activist could paint a mural that signifies and demonstrates equality for all. One strategy to writing this response is to begin by focusing on the major details of your painting, the vibrant colors, textures, and shapes involved. Then, once you have adequately described what your painting would look like and how you would create it, you can align the various components to your overall message to the community. You can explain the symbolism of certain colors or phrases (if your painting is a message).

Outside of activism, think about what you’d say if you were given 5 minutes of free airtime on CBS. What would you show the world — what is your message? An interesting take on this question could be a personal response; for example, it could be a message chronicling the story of a late relative. This would certainly be a memorable response to the question. Similar to before, you could try focusing on the tangible message or painting component in the beginning and further elaborate on its underlying meaning throughout the response.

However, the more important part of the question is “why is this your message?” No matter how you respond, how you explain this response is most essential. Don’t simply state your “undying passion” — show them WHY it matters to you. If you’ve done anything to spread this message in the past, make sure it’s the focus of your essay. If you haven’t, you could explain why this topic is so important it deserves it to be on Beta Bridge.

Required Essay for Architecture Majors

Describe an instance or place where you have been inspired by architecture or design..

If you are considering majoring in architecture, hopefully you have witnessed a couple of styles of architecture and design firsthand. A great way to begin this response is by describing where you are and why. Perhaps you are in Paris on a trip, strolling down Champs Elysees, at which point you make it to the Arc de Triomphe. Describing the nature of the structure, with its spiraling gold embellishments and stone-work can give the reader an excellent visual.

But to go further, you could describe how directly across from the Arc de Triomphe stands a massive ferris wheel. You could elaborate on how, in this moment, you are truly fascinated not only by the structures themselves but how they are organized in the grand scheme of Paris as a city. Not to mention, you can extrapolate on how history motivated many of the ancient buildings and how your own designs could take inspiration from your own historical time period.

The main strategy for this type of essay is to use poignant visuals accompanied by pertinent analysis and description of what the experience was like for you personally. Try to tap into all of the contextual factors of the experience as you remember it.

Required Essay for Kinesiology Major

Discuss experiences that led you to choose the kinesiology major. (250 words).

Kinesiology, the study of mechanics of human body movements, lends itself to many types of experiences, from hospital shadowing, physical therapy, and even higher fitness training. Whichever experience led you to apply as a kinesiology major, one approach could be focusing on a physical, mechanical approach. For example, you could describe what happens on a tissue-level when athletes sustain impacts while playing soccer. You could discuss the adverse effects of your grandmother’s left hip replacement, which distributes more of the body’s load than her right hip, causing her muscles to weaken in that region.

Alternatively, you could take a more emotion-driven approach to this question. You could emphasize the joy that helping someone regain their mobility. You could elaborate on how you or a loved one’s own movement-related issues shaped your desire to contribute to the science. Keep in mind that the kinesiology major could lead you to research in the field, so discussing your desire to find new solutions to common problems is also an approach you can take!

Required Essay for Engineering and Applied Sciences

If you were given funding for a small engineering project that would make everyday life better for one friend or family member, what would you design (250 words).

This prompt is about identifying a problem and proposing a solution. The problem doesn’t have to be big or “important” in the traditional sense. Once again, trying to address a big problem makes you less original and possibly avoids the main premise of the question (namely, a “small engineering project”).

It could be something like automating the laundry or building a stair lift. If you have a family member struggling with a disability or medical condition, simple engineering projects could offer them major relief. In brief, pay attention the problems around you and think about solutions! At the same time, make sure to elaborate on how the design would function. You could mention specific parts and describe how they work together to drive the project.

Required Essay for Nursing

School of nursing applicants may have experience shadowing, volunteering, or working in a healthcare environment. tell us about a health care-related experience or another significant interaction that deepened your interest in studying nursing. (250 words).

Write a compelling narrative about your experiences in the healthcare environment! Maybe you helped an elderly lady with her joint pains or you rearranged the bookshelves to make the books more accessible. Start by explaining what the problem was, and then, transition into what you did about it. Finally, conclude by discussing the effects the experience had on you. An excellent idea to hone in on is “personal care,” how nurses have to communicate with the elderly, console patients in difficult times, and be a generally uplifting presence. Nursing, in this personal way, develops meaningful relationships which you can focus on in an essay.

The biggest mistake you can make here is not connecting your experiences to your interest in studying nursing. Like all the other questions, convince the admissions officers that your experiences genuinely demonstrate your interest in nursing.

Required Essay for Arts and Sciences

What work of art, music, science, mathematics, or literature has surprised, unsettled, or challenged you, and in what way (250 words).

For this prompt, you can distinguish yourself from other applicants by picking a unique work to talk about. However, there is no imperative to do so; you can still write a great essay on any topic that’s familiar to you. Be sure to not simply write an essay about the work and its components; instead, be sure to write about how the work changed or unsettled you.

For example, if your favorite album is Kanye West’s My Dark Beautiful Twisted Fantasy , you would write about how Kanye incorporates countless disparate musical styles all at once to create an overwhelmingly dramatic, symphonic sound, which in turn challenges your idea of the effects of mass and social media saturation in the 21st Century.

A helpful strategy is to ask yourself pertinent questions:

• How did you change as you interacted with the work?
• Was it a slow process of discovery, or was it an immediate insight?
• Did the work match your expectations (hint: probably not the best piece to talk about) or did it radically shift your worldview?

You can structure the essay by starting with a description of where you were when you were grappling with this influential work. Then you could transition into how you engaged with the new ideas presented, finally concluding in how you still experience its effects today. A story like this will certainly be memorable, regardless of what specific topic you chose.

General Reminders

The University of Virginia is one of the best schools in the country, so be confident in your writing and make sure your response is perfect. Great essays are critical to distinguishing yourself from thousands of other accomplished applicants.

Want help with your college essays to improve your admissions chances? Sign up for your free CollegeVine account and get access to our essay guides and courses. You can also get your essay peer-reviewed and improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

From everyone here at CollegeVine, we wish you the best of luck writing your University of Virginia essays!

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Hi, guys! I'm applying to UVA and I need some help with the application essays. Could you share any examples of successful essays or some tips on how to write a killer UVA essay? Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. Cheers!

Hey there! Congrats on applying to UVA! Writing a great essay for UVA means showcasing your unique personality, interests, and values. CollegeVine has a blog post with some great UVA essay examples that you should definitely check out:

https://blog.collegevine.com/uva-essay-examples

Just keep in mind, these examples are helpful for inspiration, but your essays should be authentic and genuine to you, so don't copy them!

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June 12, 2022

UVA 2022-2023 Admissions Essay Prompts

The University of Virginia has released its 2022-2023 application essays. Applicants to the UVA Class of 2027 will be asked to complete three essays in total on the UVA supplement to The Common Application. The first essay should be about 100 words in total. The second and third essays should be about 50 words each. So, yes, UVA, one of our nation’s top public universities, has a relatively short supplement. And what questions does the Thomas Jefferson-founded school pose to applicants? Wonder no more!

University of Virginia Class of 2027 College-Specific Essay Prompt

For the first prompt, the 100-worder, applicants must select the corresponding essay for the school within UVA to which they are applying. For the College of Arts & Sciences, the prompt reads, “If you could create a college course that all UVA students would take, what would it be about and why?” For the School of Engineering, it reads, ” How will you use an engineering degree to change the world for the better?” For the School of Architecture, it goes, “Describe a significant experience that deepened your interest in studying in the School of Architecture.” For the School of Nursing, the prompt reads, “Describe a health care-related experience or another significant interaction that deepened your interest in studying Nursing.” And for the Kinesiology Program, applicants are asked, “Describe an experience that has deepened your interest in studying kinesiology.”

University of Virginia Class of 2027 Essay Prompts for All Applicants

For the second and third prompts, applicants are directed to answer two of the following ten essay options: “(1) What’s your favorite word and why? (2) We are a community with quirks, both in language and in traditions. What is one of your quirks? (3) About what topic could you speak for an hour? (4) Take us to your happy place. (5) You can wake up tomorrow and a skill you already have will become expert-level. What skill is that? (6) What is the last gift you gave something that wasn’t bought with money? (7) What website is the internet missing? (8) After a challenging experience, how do you recharge? (9) Tell us about a place you’d like to share with everyone, but also keep to yourself. (10) UVA students paint messages on Beta Bridge when they want to share information with our community. What would you paint on Beta Bridge and why is this your message?”

Have a question about the 2022-2023 UVA essay prompts? Let us know your question by posting it below. And while you’re here, see how the UVA essays have changed over the years.

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Ferris Jabr writes about science, but he always comes back to Virginia Woolf

How nonfiction, science fiction, horror, and the essays of woolf all contribute to jabr’s own writing.

In his new book, “ Becoming Earth: How Our Planet Came to Life ,” journalist Ferris Jabr uses current science to make a case for what is, in fact, an ancient view: Earth and its inhabitants, from microbes to humans, are an interconnected, dynamic system. Jabr is a contributing writer to The New York Times Magazine and Scientific American and has written for The New Yorker, The Atlantic, and Harper’s, among other publications. He lives in Portland, Ore., with his partner. He will discuss his book with Deborah Blum at 7 p.m. on July 16 at Porter Square Books in Cambridge.

BOOKS: What are you reading?

JABR: I’ve been reading some amazing nonfiction books. One is Clayton Page Aldern’s “ The Weight of Nature ,” an original exploration of how climate change affects our cognition and mental health. Then there is Zoe Schlanger’s “ The Light Eaters ,” which explores the world of plant communication, intelligence, and behavior. She does an amazing job of bringing that world to life, and Ben Goldfarb’s “ Crossings ” is a brilliant meditation on how roads have changed the natural world profoundly. I’m also making my way through Rachel Carson’s “ Sea Trilogy ,” which was rereleased a couple of years ago.

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BOOKS: What is the last book that changed your thinking about something?

JABR: There’s a science fiction novel I’ve been recommending to everybody, Ray Nayler’s “ The Mountain in the Sea .” It’s about the discovery of a self-aware, language-capable species of octopus. I hadn’t thought through what would happen if we stumbled on an advanced, nonhuman species on earth as opposed to another planet.

BOOKS: Do you regularly read science fiction?

JABR: You’d think I would devour it but literary fiction and classic fiction were my first true loves and have remained my strongest interests. I’m selective in my science fiction reading. For me the most interesting work is in speculative fiction, like Benjamin Labatut’s “ When We Cease to Understand the World .” It draws on real scientific figures but becomes more and more fictional. I’m fascinated by works that cross genres like Eliot Weinberger’s “ An Elemental Thing .” He writes these poetic linked essays based on facts but they don’t read like nonfiction.

BOOKS: Do you read horror?

JABR: I love horror. Last Halloween, I challenged myself to find books and short stories that would scare me. Shirley Jackson’s “ The Haunting of Hill House ” was truly one of the most terrifying books. There is a bizarre, short book by Algernon Blackwood, “ The Willows ,” which involves people exploring an area filled with trees where bizarre things happen.

BOOKS: What draws you to horror?

JABR: There’s that adrenaline rush, but you know you are safe. I’m not attracted to real physical danger, but the challenge of scaring someone purely through language is fascinating to me.

BOOKS: Couldn’t you just scare yourself by reading a climate change book?

JABR: Definitely. Someone called David Wallace-Wells’s “ The Uninhabitable Earth ” the most terrifying book they ever read.

BOOKS: Do you read more nonfiction or fiction?

JABR: Most of my nonfiction reading is for work. For fiction I listen to audio books. By the end of the day, I’ve spent so much time reading for work I can’t drag my eyes across another page or screen but I can cozy up and let someone tell me a story. I have listened to George Saunders’s “ Lincoln in the Bardo ” more times than I can count because I think it’s the pinnacle of audio literature. More than 100 actors read the book.

BOOKS: What did you read for your book that you would recommend?

JABR : I read Peter Brannon’s “ The Ends of the World ” multiple times. He is one of our best writers when it comes to earth history and earth science. Andrew Dessler’s “ Introduction to Modern Climate Change ” is an accessible, slim book about climate change. I also reread Virginia Woolf, my favorite author in any genre.

BOOKS : Why did you read Woolf for your book?

JABR : Her prose juices my own creative energy. I discovered a startlingly resonant passage she wrote in “ Moments of Being ,” a posthumous collection of autobiographical writing. She was staring at some flowers when she realized that there was this shining ring that enclosed the flower and the earth and connected them, that the flower was part flower and part earth. That is so much what my book is about, that life is an extension of the planet, it doesn’t just sit atop Earth.

Follow us on Facebook or Twitter @GlobeBiblio. Amy Sutherland is the author, most recently, of “ Rescuing Penny Jane ” and she can be reached at [email protected] .