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How to Write the Indiana University Bloomington Essay 2023-2024

Located in Bloomington, Indiana, Indiana University Bloomington — often known as IU — is a large public research university with a reputation of being known as a “ Public Ivy .” Offering a more affordable, yet intensive education, IU is a popular choice among applicants who are looking for a rigorous environment. The school is consistently ranked in the top 100 national universities.

With programs such as the Kelley School of Business, the School of Education, and the School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering, IU provides students with a wide array of academic opportunity. Beyond coursework, however, the university also boasts an active social life, with a decent portion of its student body participating in Greek life.

IU’s supplemental essay is an important part of the college application process. There is no need to worry — CollegeVine has prepared the following guide to help you tackle this essay.

Indiana University Bloomington Supplemental Essay Prompt

Describe your academic and career plans and any special interests (e.g., undergraduate research, academic interests, leadership opportunities, etc.) that you are eager to pursue as an undergraduate at indiana university. if you encountered any unusual circumstances, challenges, or obstacles in completing your education, share those experiences and how you overcame them. (200-400 words).

This prompt is essentially a “ Why This Major ?” and “ Why This College? ” essay combined. Readers are looking to understand which of IU’s programs and opportunities you will take advantage of to further your career. First, discuss your academic and career interests and goals; second, explain how Indiana University specifically would help you reach these aspirations.

The first part of this essay should ideally answer the question: What do you want to be when you grow up? This part of the essay should present a cohesive picture of your passion in a specific academic field. Start off with a personal anecdote that showcases your interest in a single course of study or future career.

Keep this introduction concise, yet vivid, grasping the reader’s attention. For example, you could begin with a description of performing the oboe in a dark, packed auditorium on a bright stage at the state symphony, or the immense pride and relief you feel after distributing the school newspaper you and your staff worked on for countless hours.

Next, detail your accomplishments and experience in this field — remember to show more than tell. Provide evidence of your interest through your actions during a research project or an extracurricular activity. For example, instead of saying “I like both science and art,” illustrate the year you spent researching the brain’s ability to store memories through Dali’s paintings, and how this caused you to view the process of recollection as more of an art rather than a hard science, leading to your desire to study both neuroscience and art history. Not only does this show your interest in both fields, it also implies you are curious and innovative.

This paragraph is also a chance to portray your ability to grow and conquer challenges in your given field. So, rather than writing “I won state for Mock Trial,” describe the struggles you overcame and the growth you experienced in your role as president of your school’s mock trial team. By weaving narration throughout the paragraph, you will be able to portray a more authentic and unique story.

Lastly, connect your aspirations to IU. Specificity is key here. Avoid being vague and general with sweeping statements like “Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business is perfect for me” or “As a student at IU, I could study abroad.” Vague statements demonstrate a lack of interest and lack of effort. Research and learn about the qualities and programs that make Indiana University unique and special to your needs. What are unique programs or extracurriculars at Indiana University, and what will they teach you? What is a quality of IU that is important to you? Avoid generic responses that could apply to any other university.

If you want to be an investment banker through Kelley, describe the focused skillset you will gain from the school’s investment banking workshop, or the network you will create from the small classes and tight-knit community of the Kelley Business Honors Program. An aspiring global correspondent could describe the IU’s worldly approach towards learning and interning in London through the Media School’s “Summer in London” program.

Your primary goal is to connect your accomplishments and aspirations with the opportunities that await you at IU; however, avoid listing every possible activity you could participate in and stay focused.

• Start with a personal, vivid anecdote conveying your interest in a single field.
• Share a narrative of you overcoming an obstacle in this field; provide evidence of your experience in this interest.
• Describe the essence or quality of a program or activity at IU that would help you grow in this area.

Where to Get Your IU Essay Edited

Do you want feedback on your IU essay? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools.  Find the right advisor for you  to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Indiana University Bloomington 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Guide

Early Action: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Feb 1

You Have: 

Indiana University Bloomington 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanation

The Requirements: 1 essay of 200-400 words.

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why

Describe your academic and career plans and any special interest (for example, undergraduate research, academic interests, leadership opportunities, etc.) that you are eager to pursue as an undergraduate at Indiana University. Also, if you encountered any unusual circumstances, challenges, or obstacles in pursuit of your education, share those experiences and how you overcame them. (200-400 words) This essay may be used in scholarship consideration.

This supplemental essay prompt packs a punch. It’s a why essay combined with an optional additional info essay. Read it carefully and be sure to include each part they’re requesting, if applicable. Start by writing about your area of study and why you chose it. What sort of career is possible after you graduate? Are there offerings at IU Bloomington that will prepare you for your dream job? Get familiar with the IU Bloomington website to make sure admissions knows you’ve done your homework. 

The second part of this prompt is an additional info essay — and it’s only necessary if you’ve experienced extenuating circumstances that need to be explained (prolonged absences, a drop in GPA, etc.). Remember, it’s not how you fell down, but how you got up that’s important, so don’t be afraid to talk about what happened and what you learned from the experience.

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Indiana University-Bloomington (IU) Supplemental Essay Guide: 2021-2022

Not sure how to write an Indiana University supplemental essay? CollegeAdvisor.com ’s guide to the Indiana University application essay will show you exactly how to write an engaging Indiana University supplemental essay and maximize your chances of admission. If you need help crafting your IU application essay, create your free account or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272 .

Indiana University Application Essay Guide Quick Facts:

• U.S. News considers Indiana University a more selective university.
• The IU acceptance rate is 80.4%.
• Indiana University is ranked #68 in the U.S. News list of National Universities.

Does Indiana University Require Essays?

Yes. In addition to the Personal Statement that you’ll write for the Common App or Coalition App , you’ll also complete one Indiana University supplement essay. Since there’s only one IU essay prompt, you should do everything you can to make sure your essay stands out. 

Need some help writing your Common App essay? Get great tips from our Common App essay guide .  

What is Indiana University’s Supplemental Essay?

There is only one school-specific IU essay prompt, which is required for all applicants. There are no additional IU supplemental essays for first-year applicants. Your Indiana University essay should be between 200 and 400 words. 

Indiana University application essays can cover a breadth of topics. Above all, the Indiana University application essay aims to help the admissions team get to know you. The IU essay prompt gives you the freedom to write about the topics that best illustrate who you are and how you will use an education from IU. Take advantage of the Indiana University application essay to maximize your admissions odds. 

How do I Write Indiana University’s Supplemental Essay: Question 1

Describe your academic and career plans and any special interest (for example, undergraduate research, academic interests, leadership opportunities, etc.) that you are eager to pursue as an undergraduate at Indiana University. Also, if you encountered any unusual circumstances, challenges, or obstacles in pursuit of your education, share those experiences and how you overcame them. This essay may be used in scholarship consideration. (400 word maximum)

This IU application essay is a combination of the classic “why college?” and “why major?” prompts. In 400 words, your Indiana University essay should clearly articulate your reasons for applying to Indiana University. It should also show your vision for your time as a Hoosier. 

The IU essay prompt also lets you discuss challenges that have impacted your education. Often, you can integrate these challenges into the narrative of your Indiana University essay since you overcame them in pursuit of your goals. Your IU application essay should focus on connecting your experiences to your future at Indiana University. 

When brainstorming for this IU essay prompt, ask yourself what you want to be when you grow up. Write down your dreams, goals, career interests, academic pursuits, and hobbies. When reading your IU supplemental essay, the admissions team should learn what is important to you and how you would spend your time on their campus.

An effective Why IU supplemental essay will think beyond the IU acceptance rate and Indiana University ranking. When answering this IU essay prompt, don’t just think about IU as a means to an end. Instead, think of this Indiana University application essay as a “why fit” essay. Your college experience is a two-way street; you will both contribute to and benefit from the IU community.

Tell a story

In your Indiana University application essay, try to tell a story. Your college essay shouldn’t read like a five-paragraph essay. To draw your reader in, try opening your IU supplemental essay with an anecdote. How can you immediately put the reader in your shoes? Establish an element of mystery? Dramatize your opening? Select a story that shows growth, curiosity, determination, or another positive trait that you’ll highlight in your Indiana University essay. 

In your IU application essay, make sure you include personal details. Whenever you make a claim about yourself in your Indiana University essay, provide examples to support it—show, don’t tell. If you write that you have an entrepreneurial spirit, back it up with a story from your life. If you include that you have a passion for mentoring others, provide a story from a time you mentored someone. IU does not expect that you will be involved in the same activities in college that you were in high school; still, your IU application essay should show the reader your character and skills. 

Be specific

As well as being personal, your Indiana University application essay should be specific. There are many great options for college, and you could succeed at many different schools. So, why do you want to attend IU? In your IU supplemental essay, strive to answer this question: How will the opportunities at IU make your goals a reality? There are countless majors and minors to choose from at Indiana University.  So, what will your educational path look like?

Do your research on reasons to attend IU. What specific classes, research opportunities, professors, clubs, and organizations will you take advantage of? When answering the IU essay prompt, clearly state how you would make the most of the specific opportunities you discuss. Don’t just name-drop professors. 

Writing a personal and specific Indiana University essay will help you stand out amidst thousands of other Indiana University application essays. Don’t write things in your Indiana University application essay that you could write about any other college. Conversely, avoid writing about topics that many students could also discuss in their Indiana University essays. 

Show don’t tell

Throughout your Indiana University essay, show instead of telling. This will help you convey the most interesting and effective story. When discussing a program that sparked your interest in your major when answering the IU essay prompt, paint the picture and help the reader understand your daily work. If you write about an extracurricular activity in your IU application essay, detail how it felt to accomplish something in that activity. Use vivid descriptions instead of just stating the facts.

When answering the IU essay prompt, make sure to clarify the stakes of your story. As you respond to the IU essay prompt, clarify why your interests matter. Why should the reader admit you? In your IU application essay, show the reader why accepting you would make IU a better place. Use your Indiana University application essay to highlight your potential!

Throughout your Indiana University application essay, use self-reflection to tell an authentic story. Discuss what matters to you and why. What values do you prioritize? Your IU supplement essay should emphasize your defining traits. 

In your Indiana University application essay, you should also avoid cliches. Don’t just name a program or extracurricular because it sounds impressive; authenticity will help your application the most. Also, avoid general statements about the school in your Indiana University essay as well as simple emotional appeals. Don’t just compliment the school—instead, discuss what you will bring to IU in your IU supplemental essay. 

Remember to discuss both your skills and IU’s offerings in your Indiana University application essay. College is a two-way street and “fit” is extremely important. So, use your IU supplemental essay to show how you would fit into the IU community.  

Indiana University Application Essay Draft Key Questions:

• Is your Indiana University supplemental essay both specific and personal?
• When discussing challenges, do you explain how you overcame them?
• Do you tell a cohesive and interesting story in your Indiana University essay?
• Did you proofread your IU application essay for grammar and clarity?

Additional Tips for Writing the Indiana University Application Essay

Be sure to leave yourself time to edit and revise your IU application essay! Indiana University admissions has two deadlines : Early Action on November 1, 2021, and Regular Decision on February 1, 2022. 

Before submitting your application, think about how every aspect of it will be perceived by the IU admissions team. Do you tell them as much as you can about who you are? Make sure that your IU supplemental essay paints a clear picture of your goals, motivations, and future plans. Your IU application essay should be consistent with the rest of your application; it should also add details to your profile that the reader doesn’t glean from the rest of your application. 

What is the Acceptance Rate for IU?

The IU acceptance rate is approximately 80%. However, the IU acceptance rate for the Kelley School of Business as a freshman is around 40%. The median GPA for applicants accepted to IU for the fall 2021 class was 3.91, while the median SAT and ACT scores were 1300 and 29, respectively. Read the full list of admissions requirements here . 

Don’t focus too much on the IU acceptance rate. Instead, spend your energy making your Indiana University application essay the best it can be. Since so many factors impact the IU acceptance rate, focus on the ones within your control. 

Want more tips on how to use the IU acceptance rate (and any other school’s rate) to build your school list? Check out our expert’s guides on acceptance rates and rankings . 

Indiana University Application Essay – Final Thoughts

In your IU essay, be unique and original but also genuine and honest. Instead of trying to predict what the admissions team wants to hear, focus on telling your personal story. Do your research on your future major so you can connect yourself with opportunities at IU. Be clear, concise, and specific in your responses to the Indiana University essay prompt; you only get one chance! There is no cookie-cutter IU student, so highlight what makes you stand out. Good luck!

This guide was written by Caroline Marapese , Notre Dame ’22. For more CollegeAdvisor.com resources on Indiana University, click here . Want help crafting your IU University supplemental essay? Create your account or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272.

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Applying to IU Bloomington

Find deadlines and resources for applying to IU’s largest campus in Bloomington, where you’ll find countless ways to make lifelong connections, pursue your passions, and work toward your goals.

Is IU Bloomington the right fit for you?

IU Bloomington is the heart of the Indiana University family, with our largest campus, our broadest range of degrees and majors, and our most quintessential college experience. Beyond IU Bloomington’s storybook campus and lively, Big Ten college atmosphere is a family-like community, with countless ways to find your place and ample resources and support for any challenge or goal.

IU Bloomington’s unmatched number of academic programs and learning opportunities make it possible to carve out your own unique path to a meaningful career, while genuinely caring and involved faculty and an extensive variety of welcoming student clubs and organizations make it easy to find your place in the larger Hoosier family.

And not to mention: More than half of IU Bloomington students earning a bachelor’s degree graduate without student debt.

More to consider

• 61% of 2022–23 bachelor’s degree recipients at IU Bloomington graduated without student debt.
• Students admitted to IU Bloomington have an average high school GPA of 3.90 (out of 4.0).
• 41% of 2023 freshmen went to high school outside Indiana, and 5% are from outside the U.S.
• All statistics are current as of 2023.

I feel like IU really does a good job of making sure you’re on the track to success by providing different tools, but there’s also enough leeway to have a personal life and to do all the things that you want to do and explore.

Simran Bhandarkar IU Bloomington student

How to apply to IU Bloomington

High school students can apply to IU Bloomington in one of two ways:

• The Apply IU application  
• The Common App (high school students only)

While all these application types are accepted, you should only submit one application. The materials needed and the review process are the same for all applications.

The early action deadline (non-binding) for fall applications is November 1.

The regular admission deadline for fall applications is February 1.

Get a jump start on your essay

All IU Bloomington applicants are required to submit an essay. If you apply using the Common Application, you can use any of the essay prompts provided in the application. If you apply using the Apply IU application, you will need to provide a 200- to 400-word essay using the following prompt:

Describe your academic and career plans and any special interests (e.g., undergraduate research, academic interests, leadership opportunities, etc.) that you are eager to pursue as an undergraduate at Indiana University. If you encountered any unusual circumstances, challenges, or obstacles in completing your education, share those experiences and how you overcame them.

Start your application

• Apply IU application
• Common App (high school students only)

Qualifying for direct admission

If you’ve indicated a major on your application, you may be offered direct admission to the school or college through which the major is offered. The eligibility requirements differ between schools and colleges.

Learn more about direct admission at IU Bloomington

If you’ve already applied

You’ll hear directly from IU Bloomington about whether or not you’ve been accepted. Here’s when you can expect to receive your decision:

• Early action (non-binding) fall applications: January 15
• Regular admission fall applications: March 15

Consideration for direct admission will be conducted at the point of the initial review for admission to the university. Eligible students will receive notification in their university admission decision. Academic programs that require additional steps or offer a review request/petition process will have unique processes and timelines for direct admission consideration. Students offered direct admission through these processes would receive a separate communication from the school/program.

Create your IU computing account

About two weeks after submitting your application, you should receive an email from IU with your university ID number and instructions for setting up your IU computing account.

With an ID number and IU computing account, you can:

• Check your application status
• Make changes to your submitted application

Other deadlines to watch

For first-year applicants:

• Spring semester admission: November 1
• Summer session admission: March 1

You’ll receive a decision in 4–8 weeks.

IU Bloomington Admissions resources and support

Find where to learn more about different IU Bloomington opportunities and application types.

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IU Bloomington scholarships

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Visit the Office of International Services

I have always marched to the beat of my own drum. I don’t need to do something that is prescribed to me, and now I am able to customize my world. It was such a relief to discover that IU offers [the Individualized Major Program] and, to me, it’s a testament that I picked the right school.

JP Pritchard IU Bloomington student

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Frequently asked questions about applying

We’re here to make the application process as smooth as possible for you. In addition to the information provided in our How to Apply pages, here are a few more top questions students and families ask during the application process.

Which application do I choose?

Freshman applicants.

Indiana University Bloomington accepts the Apply IU Application and the Common Application. No preference is given for any one application platform, and the materials needed to complete each are the same. The application review process is also the same for both platforms. To learn more about which application may be the best option for you, we encourage you to visit the Apply IU Application and Common Application websites.

Transfer applicants

Apply for admission to IU Bloomington by using the Apply IU Application .

What is Advising & Major Exploration Services?

Advising & Major Exploration Services (or AMES, formerly known as University Division) provides academic advising for pre-business, pre-nursing, pre-social work, and exploratory students at IU Bloomington. 

Pre-business, pre-nursing, and pre-social work students who start in AMES can immediately begin their preparation for their preferred program. You'll have access to the same courses and prerequisites as direct admits, so you don’t have to wait to start pursuing your goals.

Exploratory students will work with AMES advisors to:

• Explore programs
• Learn about the requirements for your chosen major or majors
• Complete a formal application or automatically certify into a program

All along the way, students in AMES receive advising from experts who understand the many academic options available and can help guide them on a course to achieve their goals—both for their education and their career.

Learn more about AMES

What is direct admission?

At IU, direct admission refers to admission to specific academic programs and degree-granting schools. You may be admitted to IU through Advising & Major Exploration Services or be directly admitted into programs at one of IU Bloomington’s 12 schools.

To be directly admitted to a program, you must select an eligible major on your application for admission to IU and meet that school’s direct admission criteria. The eligibility requirements and processes for receiving direct admission are different for each school or college. To learn more about direct admission, including instructions on how to request review for direct admission, visit each school’s admissions page.

• College of Arts + Sciences
• Eskenazi School of Art, Architecture + Design
• Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies
• Jacobs School of Music (Direct admission for the Jacobs School of Music is based upon a successful audition and/or interview.)
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• Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering
• O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs
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Can I apply using more than one application (freshman applicants)?

Although there are two applications to choose from, you should submit only one application. There is absolutely no advantage to submitting multiple applications and this may even result in a delay in the review of your application and receipt of your admission decision. In the event that you submit multiple applications, the first complete application will be considered for admission. Please also note that application fees are non-refundable.

Why am I experiencing issues submitting my application and/or fee payment?

If you are applying on a desktop or laptop, make sure you allow pop-ups and enable third-party cookies so that your application and fee payment will be submitted correctly. If you experience any payment issues, please contact us at [email protected] or 812-855-0661 . Please note that the Apply IU Application does not work properly with Internet Explorer.

What if I’m a 21st Century Scholar?

If you are an Indiana resident and a 21st Century Scholar, please indicate that you are a 21st Century Scholar when you are completing your application for admission to IU.

What if I have received a special type of diploma or honors?

When you are competing your application for admission to IU, please indicate if you will receive any special diploma or honors, such as the following:

• Core 40 Diploma
• AICE Diploma
• Academic Honors Diploma
• National Achievement Scholar
• National Merit Semifinalist

What if I don’t have a major in mind?

Many students come to IU wanting to explore their options for a major—and that’s a good thing. If you are undecided about a specific major, mark “Exploratory (general)” on your application.

Note: The College of Arts and Sciences has its own Exploratory option. If you know you would eventually like to pursue a program in the College, but aren't sure which one, please choose "Exploratory (College)" on your application.

How much do you need to know about my high school senior year schedule (freshman applicants)?

To confirm that you will have met the high school course requirements for admission set by the IU faculty, we need to receive your full senior year schedule (not just your fall courses). We won't begin our review until this information is received.

Here are some additional pointers:

• If your school is on semesters , list your fall and spring classes.
• If you have full-year classes , list them once for fall and list the same classes again for spring.
• If you’re on trimesters , use fall, winter, and spring; list your classes three times, once for each term.

How can I ensure that my birthdate and other personal information are correct?

When entering your information, make sure to review your birthdate to make sure that you haven’t accidentally put numbers in the wrong order.

Making sure all the numbers and other information are correct will help avoid delays in processing your application.

Is an essay required?

As part of your application, regardless of which platform you choose, you will need to submit an essay. If you are applying through the Common Application, you can choose from any of the essay prompts in the application. If you are applying through Apply IU, you will need to submit the IU-specific essay using the prompt below.

IU-specific essay: In 200–400 words, describe your academic and career plans and any special interest (for example, undergraduate research, academic interests, leadership opportunities, etc.) that you are eager to pursue as an undergraduate at Indiana University. Also, if you encountered any unusual circumstances, challenges, or obstacles in pursuit of your education, you may share those experiences and how you overcame them. Please note that this essay may be used for scholarship consideration.

Should I submit supplemental information with my application, such as a counselor or teacher recommendation?

Letters of recommendation are not required as part of the application process. However, if you would like to submit these documents because they provide additional information about your academic and personal merit/accomplishments that is not indicated elsewhere in your application materials, we will accept one counselor recommendation and one teacher recommendation. Recommendations or other supplemental documents should be submitted with your official high school transcript (using your school's process for submitting electronic or paper transcripts) or included as part of your Common Application submission if you are applying through this platform.

How do I qualify for a fee waiver?

Please note that the application fee can be waived for students who have demonstrated financial need. If you feel that your financial circumstances may qualify you for a fee waiver, make sure you request a fee waiver when completing your application. Also, if you are a 21st Century Scholar or a Balfour Scholar, the application fee will be waived if you indicate you participate in one of these programs when you complete your application.

If you are submitting the Apply IU Application, you will need to submit a completed ACT , SAT , or NACAC fee waiver form that has been verified by your high school counselor. If you are submitting the Common Application, you will need to complete the fee waiver section on your profile and your counselor will need to verify your eligibility. Please note that regardless of which application you submit, an admission decision will not be made until we receive a fee waiver form/verification or your $65 application fee.

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Have more questions? We’re happy to help. Reach out to your personal admission counselor or contact us at [email protected] or 812-855-0661 .

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Home — Application Essay — University — Indiana University

Indiana University Admission Essays

Cultural exchange: shaping perspectives on diversity.

Diversity and inclusion are paramount in shaping an individual’s perception of the world, fostering empathy, and building a harmonious society. One significant personal experience has indelibly shaped my perspective on diversity and inclusion, influencing my interactions with others and my approach to fostering an inclusive…

Indiana University: Pursuing Academic and Personal Success

I am writing to apply for admission to Indiana University as a college student. As a bright and motivated individual, I believe that IU will provide me with the perfect environment to pursue my academic and personal goals. Introduction From a young age, I have…

Indiana University: A Platform for Growth and Transformation

Introduction As a college student, I have come to realize that personal growth and transformation are not merely the byproducts of academic pursuits but are equally nurtured through a supportive and inclusive campus environment. My aspiration to become a part of the vibrant community at…

From Indiana to Japan: A Journey of Global Engagement

That all changed when I had the opportunity to participate in a two-week cultural exchange program in Japan during my sophomore year of high school. This life-changing experience opened my eyes to a world beyond my own small corner of Indiana and ignited a passion…

Cross-Cultural Reflections: Nepal and Beyond

One meaningful cross-cultural experience that has greatly influenced my worldview occurred during a volunteer trip to a rural village in Nepal. I spent two weeks working with a local non-profit organization, helping to build a school and providing educational support to the children. During my…

Indiana University: My Transformative Cross-Cultural Experience

My exposure to diverse cultures and global perspectives was limited. However, during my senior year of high school, I had the opportunity to participate in a cross-cultural exchange program that opened my eyes to the beauty and importance of global engagement. This experience not only…

Nine Mile: College Admission Essay Sample

As is the case with many twelve-year-old sixth graders, I used to be a little self-centered. I was in the middle of puberty, with hormones raging and jumbling my mind in all kinds of ways, and the fact that I was slightly socially awkward and…

Fingerprints: College Admission Essay Sample

Taking my spot in the third seat, I face the coxswain as she commands our boat. As we push off the dock, adrenaline runs through my veins. As my stomach leaps into my throat, hands sweating, I tenuously maintain my grip on the oar. As…

My Love for Wearing Costumes

My love for wearing costumes developed as a child. Even today, I’d have to say, I still enjoy wearing them. As the president of the DECA chapter at my school, I get to dress up in pant suits and pearls, while role-playing as a CEO….

A Keyboard in my Crib: College Admission Essay Sample

(Note: This was for an undergraduate transfer application.) My musical journey began innocently enough, in my infancy, with a toy keyboard placed in my crib as a diversion. Though I would not begin formal instruction on an instrument for several more years, this simple gift…

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Indiana University Undergraduate College Application Essays

These Indiana University college application essays were written by students accepted at Indiana University. All of our sample college essays include the question prompt and the year written. Please use these sample admission essays responsibly.

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College Application Essays accepted by Indiana University

Nine mile nicole e. dipaolo, indiana university.

As is the case with many twelve-year-old sixth graders, I used to be a little self-centered. I was in the middle of puberty, with hormones raging and jumbling my mind in all kinds of ways, and the fact that I was slightly socially awkward and seen...

Willow Tree Anonymous

June 4th 2006

The volunteers in the red shirts direct us to enter our corrals. It's race time. Twenty-three thousand of us cram into our assigned areas and stand shoulder-to-shoulder, no room to move. I know what lies in wait—fifty-four...

A Keyboard in my Crib Anonymous

(Note: This was for an undergraduate transfer application.)

My musical journey began innocently enough, in my infancy, with a toy keyboard placed in my crib as a diversion. Though I would not begin formal instruction on an instrument for several...

Finding Your Animal Totem Brad Boyle

"On Thursday," announced my religion teacher, "we will be going to the zoo to find our animal totems." For those that don’t know, an animal totem represents the Native American belief that each person has a connection to a specific animal. I was...

My Life Jordan Williams

“Jooooorrrrddddannnnn,” my mom screamed with utter fear and panic in her voice. Surprisingly, amongst all of the chaos, her voice was all that I heard. I’m not sure if I was disoriented, bewildered or just in complete shock but at that particular...

Home Away From Home Laith Nasfat Shehadeh

For many of my friends, summer break means swimming at the local pool and hanging out at our downtown movie theater. Yet for me, summer means traveling 6,000 miles to a completely different country, where I speak a completely different language...

Hook, Line and thinker. Dan Schwarz

To many, it may seem farfetched to associate the feeling of being perfectly content with a sport as salty as fishing, but not to me. The way the cork grip of a fishing rod gingerly held between my fingers instills the feeling of being so...

Fingerprints Paris Silverman

Taking my spot in the third seat, I face the coxswain as she commands our boat. As we push off the dock, adrenaline runs through my veins. As my stomach leaps into my throat, hands sweating, I tenuously maintain my grip on the oar. As the “new...

Dealing with Failure in the Floral Business Anonymous

It was an ideal day for a wedding. The sun was shining and was seventy degrees on top of one of downtown Cleveland’s taller rooftops. The airshow was to my right, and the entire span of the Cleveland skyline to my left. The wind died down as we...

From America with Russian Love Fiona Jenna Blumin

A vivacious and carefree four-year-old, I dropped my paintbrush, splattering globs of blue paint all over my t-shirt and classmates nearby. Immediately, my thin lips transformed into an enormous grin. My grandpa, or as we say in Russian, my ...

97% Allegra Mendonsa

97%. That is the survival rate for thyroid cancer. It’s the first thing I looked up after my diagnosis. I felt like something inside me shattered. I told myself I could live with that because, statistically speaking, I would be okay.

However, my...

A Tale of Two Teeth Anonymous

Sweat droplets streamed down my cheeks. It was an odd, balmy April day and my friend Grant and I had just finished an amiable game of street hockey when boredom began to claw at our minds. As the sun started to sink below the horizon, I focused my...

Costumes Emma Sapp

My love for wearing costumes developed as a child. Even today, I’d have to say, I still enjoy wearing them. As the president of the DECA chapter at my school, I get to dress up in pant suits and pearls, while role-playing as a CEO. While my...

Only Time Will Tell Anonymous

I’ll always remember that drive; there was a crisp summer breeze sailing in through my window and the taste of early-morning dew still hung in the air. My heart was beating so fast, I could hardly hear my favorite song, “Sweet Caroline”, blasting...

Beauty Anonymous

Anyone can find beauty in ordinary things: the ivory snow falling outside a foggy window on a January morning, the rainbow that appears after a thunderstorm, or the almost formulaic pink and orange hues of a sunset over the horizon. But these...

More Than a Reflection Morgan Jankowski

There are times when I gaze out of the windows of the South Shore Train and see nothing more than the softened edges of verdant forests and the blurred outlines of monotonous buildings. I watch as the clouds move, change shape, and reform yet...

Camper to Counselor Anonymous

I stood on the platform above Corey Lake at Camp Eberhart, goosebumps slowly forming as my teeth chattered from the cold wind’s touch on my bare skin. My eyes fixated on the dark blue hues and the ripples forming in the water below me. My hands...

Last Place...? Stacy Park

My choir director points at me, whispering, “You’re next.” Those daunting words make me falter back to my chair. As I wait for my turn, my hands start trembling with fear. I immediately slap my wrist hard enough for the choir director to turn...

The Edge Jillian Konikow

A six-year-old girl stands at the edge, unsure about the leap she must take. She is nervous; very aware of the challenge at hand and the expectations she must meet. In the next moment, she finds herself suspended in the air, entering the watery...

Uninvent Your Camera Anonymous

Photos freeze the world in place for just a moment. In the rapidly moving world, it’s refreshing to look at a photo, stop the earth’s spin, and live in the past for a few minutes. Photos are sentiments—souvenirs of a time and place that has...

Packet of Tissue Anonymous

“You are going to a boarding school in Singapore,” said my parents one day.

The decision to send me off to boarding school came as a surprise for my family’s acquaintances. It came as a shock to me --- especially since I did not even know what the...

Recent Questions about Indiana University

The Question and Answer section for Indiana University is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

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Writing a Statement of Purpose

Writing a statement of purpose.

An application to graduate school typically requires a statement of purpose, and each school has specific requirements for this document. Some may give you a question to answer, while others will leave the topic up to you. Almost every school will require a length of 1-2 pages. (If they don’t state this, they probably follow this guideline anyway.) Keep in mind that they expect your statement to be concise and to adhere to this length. Schools tend to weigh the statement heavily because it shows elements of your personality, as well as your writing and thinking skills—these are critical in graduate school.

Because the statement is so important, you should begin writing it months in advance of its due date. You will then have time to revise it (as many as 10 times) and have others critique it. You may write a generalized version of your statement in the summer, and then a more specific statement for each school you apply to.

Before you begin writing the statement, you can use a variety of questions and tools to focus. Brainstorming is a highly effective tool, encouraging you to write your random thoughts down. Start by asking, “Why do I wish to go to graduate school?” Then list examples of instances in your life that have directed you to this goal. Examine your resume and select a few key points that you can elaborate on, backing up your assertions.

Keep in mind that you should avoid simply restating your resume. For example, you may state that you are interested in aspect of cognitive science because of the nuances of. Then you back this up by saying, “My experience in So-and-So’s lab has taught me (encouraged me to, etc.).” Perhaps you can give an example of when you excelled in the lab, or you can describe the first time you had that YES! sensation when doing research. Remember, these are just preliminary suggestions— your brainstorming will produce different results and a better fit for you.

What to include in your statement of purpose

When crafting your statement, try to include the following:

• Why you wish to attend graduate school
• The area in which you wish to specialize
• Career goals after graduate school
• Academic background and extracurricular activities that have prepared you for graduate study in this specialization or general field
• A positive explanation of poor scores or grades if needed
• Why you wish to attend a particular school or work with a specific advisor

Do not use too much jargon. Write in an honest, intelligent, and straightforward manner. Your writing should be clear and show continuity throughout the piece. Having others review your statement of purpose is critical to making sure you’re putting your best forward. Remember that your preliminary reviewers are offering their opinions and you are free to do as you wish to keep the statement true to you. If several reviewers comment on the same thing, however, it would probably be best to revise that portion. Once again, start early and revise until you feel satisfied with the result.

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Personal statements, personal statement criteria, higher education and student affairs, m.s.ed. in higher education and student affairs.

The personal statement should provide a concise reflection of why you are interested in becoming a student affairs professional. You may want to touch on what may have led to your desire to be a student affairs professional, and address anything you want the committee to know about your qualifications for the program. Finally, you may want to also address why you are interested in studying at Indiana University. The final statement should be double spaced and no more than 2 pages in length.

Ph.D. in Higher Education

Your personal goal statement is an important part of the review process for our faculty members as they consider your application. This statement allows faculty to learn about your background, work experience, and additional qualifications that make you a strong candidate for the program. It also serves as a platform for you to share your goals for graduate study, your interests in working with particular faculty members, and your thoughts about how IU’s program would help you reach your desired career outcome. This statement should be 500 words or less. You can upload your personal goal statement as a PDF file or as a Microsoft Word document (.doc or .docx) into the online application itself.

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The Art of Reflection: The Stand Out Scholarship Essay

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It’s about what you learned, not what you did.

You may have a rap sheet of accomplishments, activities, jobs, and hard skills, but that is not the purpose of an essay. If the foundation or organization providing the scholarship wants a list of experiences, they will ask for a resume or a Curriculum Vitae (CV).

This essay is also not merely a list of actions you took to attain those goals, complete your job, or build your resume. It is a reflection of how those actions have impacted your life and prepared you for the future.

If the purpose of the essay is to receive a scholarship for something specific (e.g. a study abroad opportunity), you should start with that goal and work from there. However, if the purpose of the essay is to showcase you and your potential, then I recommend choosing 1-3 activities or achievements from your resume to highlight throughout the essay.

Once your goal or your activities are chosen, create a concept map . As shown in the picture below, come up with themes that surround each goal or activity. Arrows and connecting lines between concepts are encouraged, as they will assist you in crafting a fluid and cohesive paper.

Image 1: Goal-driven concept map

My goal was to attain a scholarship for a speech-language therapy study abroad experience in Mexico through my undergraduate institution’s Communication Disorders department. I was not planning to become a speech-language pathologist (SLP), but I found ways to connect the importance of the experience to my areas of study–health science and communication disorders–and future goals of working with populations with hearing loss.

Questions to help populate your goal-driven concept map include:

• How does the goal relate to your current job or area of study?
• What will you do if you achieve your goal?
• How will this goal help you grow?
• How do the concepts on the page connect to each other?

Questions to help populate your activity or achievement-based concept map include:

• What did you do?
• What was important?
• Who was involved
• How did that activity influence your future?
• How do the concepts on the page connect to each other

A concept map does not act as an outline, but rather sparks ideas, draws connections, and narrows the focus for when you are ready to write! Once complete, you should have a better sense of direction.

As stated earlier, this essay is not a dry list of achievements, but a well crafted example of the person you are and the person you want to become. This essay is an opportunity–an opportunity to demonstrate your character, your intellect, your thought processes, and your “why”.

Character includes work ethic, empathy, integrity, and resilience among a long list of soft skills. When you describe instead of tell about an achievement that required teamwork, time-consuming tasks, or challenging situations; often these skills naturally appear.

Intellect means more than book smart. If you have a 4.0, great, put in on the resume and don’t mention it here. However, when describing an achievement, don’t be afraid to toot your own horn by featuring your ability to learn, make decisions, or analyze complex concepts.

Thought processes are demonstrated as you make connections between your past engagements and your future goals. Refer back to your concept map to remind you of those connections. You may ask yourself, “how has this activity impacted my life?” or “How will this study abroad experience help me be a better health education specialist?”

Your WHY ! This might be the most important. This is your chance to answer, “so what?”. So what about your past achievements make you worthy to receive this scholarship? Why should I fund your trip to Mexico instead of another student’s? These are the questions the scholarship panel will be asking. Make this the climax of your essay, because this–if all other requirements are met–is the deciding factor in your success. This was my why:

I want to make a difference in the world, and I want to advocate for minorities, specifically those with disabilities or mental health concerns. By working with children who have developmental disabilities from orphanages and day cares in Mexico, I get to connect my passions through a multi-cultural immersion. I will work one on one with the kids, give health education lessons to the caretakers, improve my Spanish, experience 3 rd world institutions, and learn from the [University] professors all of which will guide me toward the right career.

Reflection takes careful consideration of language and strong self-awareness. Welcome the opportunity to think critically!

I am specifically writing about scholarship essays, but these strategies can apply to cover letters and even recommendation letters. You are one of a kind. If you make the essay personal it WILL stand out.

These are the strategies I have personally found to increase my success with scholarship applications. However, there is no “magic bullet”. Each organization, foundation, university, or employer is looking for something a little different. Therefore, if you are in need of additional tips or specific feedback, please visit the career services office in the bottom floor of SPH and/or make an appointment with a career advisor.

Good luck!!!

I TRI for Longevity, so one day WE can change the World!

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Selective Scholarship Application

What is the selective scholarship application (ssa).

The Selective Scholarship Application (SSA) is an invitation-only application utilized by a number of departments across the Indiana University Bloomington campus. upon submitting their SSA. To be considered for invitation to the SSA, the student must submit their complete application for admission by the November 1st Early Action deadline.

Upon submitting their SSA, the student's application will be reviewed for select departmental scholarship opportunities by the department that invited the student. Listed below are the participating departments on the Bloomington campus:

• College of Arts + Sciences
• Eskenazi School of Art, Architecture + Design
• Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies
• Kelley School of Business
• Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering Scholarship Programs
• O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs
• The Media School

FAQs about the Selective Scholarship Application (SSA)

We know the process of submitting multiple applications at one time can get confusing, so we have gathered some common questions and with answers to help you navigate the SSA from start to finish. 

What is the SSA?

The Selective Scholarship Application is an invitation-only application shared by a number of schools and programs at Indiana University Bloomington to award selective scholarship opportunities to incoming students. Incoming students must have a complete application for admission on file by November 1st in order to be considered for an invitation to complete the SSA. 

How do I access and submit the SSA?

How to access and complete your SSA:

• Create your IU computing account . You will need your 10-digit university ID number provided in your admission email to create this account. Please note that it may take up to 24 hours to activate your account. Do not log in using your guest account.
• Complete the General (Scholarship) Application in the IU Scholarships task in One.IU. The General Application is used to determine eligibility for many scholarships at IU.. It includes a series of questions and one essay, which should take 60–90 minutes to complete. Log in using your IU computing account (IU credentials), then fill out the application and click "Finish and Submit." Please ensure that you answer all questions thoroughly.
• Complete the Selective Scholarship Application in the IU Scholarships task.  Once you have submitted the General Application, you should select "IU Bloomington SSA", fill out the application, then click "Finish and Submit." You must submit the General Application before you can complete your SSA.

Do I need to have my IU computing account before submitting the SSA?

Yes. To access both the General Scholarship Application and SSA, you must first create your IU computing account . 

Please note that you must also submit your General Scholarship Application before you will be able to access and submit your IU Bloomington SSA in the IU Scholarships task in One.IU .

Do I have to be admitted before being considered for SSA eligibility?

Yes. You must be admitted to Indiana University Bloomington before you will be considered for eligibility to apply for scholarships through the SSA. We do not provide SSA materials to students who have not yet been assigned the SSA.

What is the deadline for submitting the SSA?

The Selective Scholarship Application (SSA) has a submission deadline of February 1st at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. This is a hard deadline, so late submissions will not be accepted. 

Who will review my SSA?

If you are selected by a participating school and/or program, you will receive an official invitation to submit the SSA from the Office of Scholarships. The school and/or program you have been invited by and that will be reviewing your application will be listed in this invitation.

How do I upload my file(s) to my SSA?

To submit files to your SSA, you must follow these instructions: 

• Your file must be in either a .pdf or .docx form.
• Commas, apostrophes, and non-alphanumeric characters outside of a-z, A-Z, and 0-9

If your files's name contains any prohibited characters, or it is not in an accepted form, your document will be rejected for uploading. Once you have ensured that your file meets the requirements above, you will be able to upload your file and submit your application.

Can I use the same essay used in my admission application for my SSA essay?

Can i receive invitation to the ssa if i apply test-optional.

Yes. Many of the schools and programs utilizing the SSA plan to offer potential direct admission and scholarship opportunities to students who apply test-optional. For any additional questions or information on SSA invitation and/or selection criteria, students should contact the participating department directly.

I was not invited to the SSA, but my test scores have improved. Can SSA invitation be reconsidered?

All students who meet the November 1 early action (non-binding) deadline will continue to be assessed for additional SSA opportunities based on updated test scores through January 15, at which time all SSA eligibility review stops to ensure adequate time for SSA completion.

Will my SSA be updated with my new higher test scores that I submitted to the Office of Admissions?

Your SSA will contain the most recent admission application information we have on file for you. If you submit updated test scores, your SSA will be updated to reflect the new scores. Once you submit your SSA, your application will continue to update with new test scores; however, we cannot guarantee that the reviewing department will consider any information that is updated after you submit your SSA.

Who do I contact for technical support?

For questions or technical issues related to the SSA, please email the Office of Scholarships at  [email protected] . P lease include your full name, University ID, and a brief description of what technical issue you are experiencing.

*Your 10-digit University ID number can be found in your Admission notification letter and begins with 000 or 200.

Want to be invited to complete the SSA? Students must submit their complete application for admission to IU Bloomington no later than November 1st to be considered for invitation.

Description of the video:

[Upbeat music plays]

[Video: The iconic IU Sample Gates are shown, with landscaped beds or red and white flowers in front. People walk both towards campus and away from the Sample Gates. The IU trident appears over the top of the video image]

[Words appear: What is the Selective Scholarship Application (SSA)?]

[Video: Cut to aerial footage of the IU Fine Arts Plaza with Showalter Fountain shown at center and the IU Auditorium in the background. Students are grouped around the area attending an outdoor event]

Voiceover: The Selective Scholarship Application, or SSA,

[Video: The screen turns white, then red as the video Zooms out to show an image of a laptop computer. The letters SSA appear with a typing indicator on the laptop screen]

Voiceover: is a straightforward application that is used to determine scholarship awards

[Video: The laptop moves to the left. An arrow appears pointing from the laptop to an image of a money sign in a circle over a diploma before disappearing]

Voiceover: offered by specific schools and academic programs at IU.

[Video: The images zoom backwards and disappear. An outline of 3 people’s heads and shoulder appears on the red screen. The IU trident appears on their shirts.]

[Words appear: Admitted students]

Voiceover: Admitted students who meet certain qualifications are invited to complete the SSA.

[Video: The images and words blur and disappear.]

[Words appear: 3 steps]

The SSA doesn't take long to complete in three simple steps.

[Words disappear]

[Words appear: 1 Create your IU computing account]

Voiceover: 1: Create your IU computing account in One.IU.

[Video: The words slide up and a screenshot of the One.IU task “Create My First IU Account” appears below. Cascading white and red bars wipe diagonally from up left to down right. The words and icon disappear. The screen turns red.]

[Words appear: 2 Complete the General Application]

Voiceover: 2: Complete the general application in the IU Scholarships task in One.IU.

[Video: The words slide up and a screenshot of the One.IU task “IU Scholarships: Blackbaud Award Management” appears below.]

Voiceover: Bonus: The general application is also used to find other IU scholarships you might be eligible for.

[Video: Cascading white and red bars wipe diagonally up from down left to up right. The words and icon disappear. The screen turns read]

[Words appear: 3 Submit the IU Bloomington SSA Essay. The words slide up and the laptop computer image appears below. The letters SSA and a typing indicator appear on the laptop screen]

Voiceover: 3: Submit the IU Bloomington SSA essay in the IU Scholarships task in One.IU.

[Video: Cascading circles appear in white and red. The words and icon disappear. The screen turns red. An image of a checklist on a clipboard appears]

Voiceover: Some scholarships require additional materials.

[Vide: A hand holding a pen appears on screen and the video zooms in slightly on the checklist]

Voiceover: Be sure to check your invitation to see if you need to submit anything else.

[Video: White and red bars wipe across screen from right to left. The screen turns red. A white outline of an analog clock appears. The hour and minute hands swipe around the clock]

Voiceover: And that's it.

[Video: The clock blurs and disappears. An image of a dollar sign in a circle behind a diploma appears. White sparkles appear intermittently around it]

Voiceover: It only takes a little time to complete, and then you will be considered for IU scholarships.

[Video: The dollar sign and diploma fly off screen to the right. A calendar icon and clock outline fly on screen from the left and land at center]

Voiceover: The deadline for the SSA is February 1st,

[Words appear: February 1]

Voiceover: but you should complete it as early as possible.

[Video: The words and icon blur and disappear.]

[Words appear: Learn more at scholarships dot Indiana dot e d u]

Voiceover: Learn more about the SSA and other scholarship opportunities on the IU Office of Scholarships website.

[Video: The words break up into letters. Each letter changes size and moves in a different direction before disappearing. The IU trident appears on a white tab at the top of the screen]

[Words appear: Office of Scholarships scholarships dot Indiana dot e d u]

[End of video]

[End of transcript]

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IU Bloomington SSA General Application Essay

Is the optional general essay (anything we should know) needed to receive scholarship money. There is SSA application and 2 required essays, but I was wondering if the optional general essay was “required” as well.

I was wondering the same

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Saturday, May 4, 2024

Congratulations to  Joe Decker,  who was awarded this year’s prize in the Religious Studies annual  g raduate student essay contest ! His essay is titled “The Burning Question: What do Burnt Buddhist Bodies Embody? Rethinking the Narration of Tibetan Self-immolation in the Media.” Joe’s deeply humane analysis acknowledges the limits of knowledge, given the political silencing of certain Tibetan voices, and nevertheless helps readers understand how and why the lives and bodies of self-cremating Buddhists matter. 

Congratulations to  Moriah Reichert  who was awarded this year’s Graduate Teaching Excellence Award. Faculty and students alike praise Moriah’s abilities in every aspect of the classroom. After observing her teach about the Bible, one faculty member noted, “Moriah’s style of teaching combines a generosity which encourages student input with a rigor which invites students to look  again  at the text.”

And finally, congratulations to  Ellen Loucks  and  Moriah Reichert  this year’s recipients of the Stein Fellowship in the Study of American Religions.  The Stein Fellowship supports graduate work in the Religion in the Americas field. It is awarded to graduate students presenting their research at an academic conference or traveling to an archive or other research site for a clearly defined purpose during the 2024-2025 academic year or following summer.

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Personal statements & application letters, personal statements and application letters.

The process of applying for jobs, internships, and graduate/professional programs often requires a personal statement or application letter. This type of writing asks writers to outline their strengths confidently and concisely, which can be challenging.

Though the requirements differ from application to application, the purpose of this type of writing is to represent your goals, experiences and qualifications in the best possible light, and to demonstrate your writing ability. Your personal statement or application letter introduces you to your potential employer or program director, so it is essential that you allow yourself enough time to craft a polished piece of writing.

1) PREPARE YOUR MATERIALS

Before you sit down to write, do some preparation in order to avoid frustration during the actual writing process. Obtain copies of documents such as transcripts, resumes and the application form itself; keeping them in front of you will make your job of writing much easier. Make a list of important information, in particular names and exact titles of former employers and supervisors, titles of jobs you have held, companies you have worked for, dates of appropriate work or volunteer experiences, the duties involved etc. In this way, you will be able to refer to these materials while writing in order to include as much specific detail as possible.

2) WRITE A FIRST DRAFT

After you have collected and reviewed these materials, it is time to start writing. The following is a list of concerns that writers should keep in mind when writing a personal statement/application letter.

Answer the Question: A major problem for all writers can be the issue of actually answering the question being asked. For example, an application might want you to discuss the reason you are applying to a particular program or company. If you spend your entire essay or letter detailing your qualifications with no mention of what attracted you to the company or department, your statement will probably not be successful. To avoid this problem, read the question or assignment carefully both as you prepare and again just prior to writing. Keep the question in front of you as you write, and refer to it often. Consider The "I" Problem: This is a personal statement; using the first person pronoun "I" is acceptable. Writers often feel rather self-conscious about using first person excessively, either because they are modest or because they have learned to avoid first and second person ("you") in any type of formal writing. Yet in this type of writing using first person is essential because it makes your prose more lively. Using third person can result in a vague and overly wordy essay. While starting every sentence with "I" is not advisable, remember that you and your experiences are the subject of the essay. Avoid Unnecessary Duplication: Sometimes a writer has a tendency to repeat information in his or her personal statement that is already included in other parts of the application packet (resume, transcript, application form, etc.). For example, it is not necessary to mention your exact GPA or specific grades and course titles in your personal statement or application letter. It is more efficient and more effective to simply mention academic progress briefly ("I was on the Dean's List"; or "I have taken numerous courses in the field of nutrition") and then move on to discuss appropriate work or volunteer experiences in more detail. Make Your Statement Distinctive: Many writers want to make their personal statements unique or distinctive in some way as a means of distinguishing their application from the many others received by the company or program. One way to do this is to include at least one detailed example or anecdote that is specific to your own experience—perhaps a description of an important family member or personal moment that influenced your decision to pursue a particular career or degree. This strategy makes your statement distinctive and memorable. Keep It Brief: Usually, personal statements are limited to 250–500 words or one typed page, so write concisely while still being detailed. Making sure that each paragraph is tightly focused on a single idea (one paragraph on the strengths of the program, one on your research experience, one on your extracurricular activities, etc.) helps keep the essay from becoming too long. Also, spending a little time working on word choice by utilizing a dictionary and a thesaurus and by including adjectives should result in less repetition and more precise writing.

Personal Statement Format

As mentioned before, the requirements for personal statements differ, but generally a personal statement includes certain information and can follow this format (see following model).

Introduction Many personal statements begin with a catchy opening, often the distinctive personal example mentioned earlier, as a way of gaining the reader’s attention. From there you can connect the example to the actual program/position for which you are applying. Mention the specific name of the program or company, as well as the title of the position or degree you are seeking, in the first paragraph. Detailed Supporting Paragraphs Subsequent paragraphs should address any specific questions from the application, which might deal with the strengths of the program/position, your own qualifications, your compatibility with the program/position, your long-term goals or some combination thereof. Each paragraph should be focused and should have a topic sentence that informs the reader of the paragraph’s emphasis. You need to remember, however, that the examples from your experience must be relevant and should support your argument about your qualifications. Conclusion Tie together the various issues that you have raised in the essay, and reiterate your interest in this specific program or position. You might also mention how this job or degree is a step towards a long-term goal in a closing paragraph. An application letter contains many of the same elements as a personal statement, but it is presented in a business letter format and can sometimes be even shorter and more specific than a personal statement. An application letter may not contain the catchy opening of the personal statement but instead includes detailed information about the program or position and how you found out about it. Your application letter usually refers to your resume at some point. Another difference between a personal statement and an application letter is in the conclusion, which in an application letter asks for an interview.

3) REVISING THE PERSONAL STATEMENT/APPLICATION LETTER

Because this piece of writing is designed to either get you an interview or a place in a graduate school program, it is vital that you allow yourself enough time to revise your piece of writing thoroughly. This revision needs to occur on both the content level (did you address the question? is there enough detail?) and the sentence level (is the writing clear? are the mechanics and punctuation correct?). While tools such as spell-checks and grammar-checks are helpful during revision, they should not be used exclusively; you should read over your draft yourself and/or have others do so.

As a child I often accompanied my father to his small coin shop and spent hours watching him work. When I was older, I sometimes set up displays, waited on customers, and even balanced the books. This experience instilled in me the desire to own and manage my own business someday, yet I understand that the business world today is more complex. This complexity requires more education, and with that in mind, I am applying to the Master's of Business Administration program at Indiana University Bloomington (IUB). In addition to my helping out in my father’s business, I have had numerous other work experiences that further enhance my qualifications for this program. My resume enumerates the various positions I have held at Kerasotes Theaters, Chili's restaurants, and Indiana University's new Student Recreational Sports Center (SRSC), and what all of these positions have in common is an emphasis on serving the public effectively. Further, as an assistant manager at the Showplace 11 and a staff coordinator at the SRSC, I have gained valuable expertise in managing employees and creating work schedules. Both of these positions have allowed me to develop my sales and people skills, which are extremely important in an increasingly service-driven marketplace. Not all of my work experience has been as a paid employee. Part of my volunteering experience at Middleway House, the local battered women's shelter, involved extensive work on computers, including word processing, organizing databases and creating spreadsheets. Also, I recently participated in an internship program for academic credit with the Eli Lilly corporation in the personnel division. As a management intern, I was able to watch the workings of a major corporation up close and would like the opportunity to combine my experiences with the theoretical background available in the MBA program at IUB, with its emphasis on computers, marketing and human resources. My successful internship is one element of my overall academic success as an undergraduate here at IUB, yet I have also made time for a variety of extracurricular activities, including working for my sorority and competing in intramural basketball. My positive experiences here have resulted in my desire to stay in Bloomington to continue my academic endeavors; furthermore, continuing my education here would allow me to make important business contacts, with the career goal of opening my own computer consulting firm in the Midwest.

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State police detain pro-Palestine protesters, tear down encampment at Indiana University

Pro-Palestinian protesters were shoved with riot shields, handcuffed with zip ties and detained by state police in Indiana University's Dunn Meadow on Thursday after being told by officers to take down tents that had been set up for a Gaza solidarity encampment.

An Indiana University Police statement Thursday night said uniformed officers with IUPD and Indiana State Police "approached the group in Dunn Meadow and made a final request that they remove the structures" at about 3:46 p.m. When people refused to take down the tents and disperse, "they were detained and removed."

Thirty-three people were taken to the Monroe County Justice Center. The IUPD report states that IU police will continue to monitor "ongoing activity in Dunn Meadow."

The protest was organized by the IU Divestment Coalition, a campus group that advocates for the university to, among other things, sever financial ties with Israel along guidelines for the Boycott, Divest and Sanction Movement and end its partnership with the regional Naval Surface Warface Center, Crane base.

More: Crane whistleblower claims Army, Navy retaliated against him; may testify before Congress

The encampment was set up in solidarity with colleges across the country including Columbia in New York , the University of Southern California and the University of Texas , where encampments have been told to disperse and have been met with police deployments.

Around noon Thursday, IUPD and state police officers began telling protesters to take down the tents and canopies to continue protesting, although one officer, Sgt. Will Keaton, asked protesters “to remove your tents and leave the area.”

IU's Bloomington campus policy designates Dunn Meadow as “an assembly ground” that can be used as a “public forum for expression on all subjects.” Campus policy also specifies that “structures” can be used as “an appropriate exercise of the right of expression in the Assembly Ground.”

Still, Indiana State Police Cpt. Rob Priest repeatedly told protesters that tents were “against policy” and “I’m not going to argue,” when students and faculty members brought up campus policy.

At 2:30 p.m., protesters began taking down a few tents, but maintained two canopy tents and a large camping tent. Protesters then began to link arms around the center of the encampment, chanting slogans such as, “Resistance is justified when people are occupied,” and “Whitten, Whitten, you can’t hide, we charge you with genocide." The latter was a reference to IU President Pamela Whitten.

A significant counter-protest took place at IU's Chabad House , which overlooks Dunn Meadow, with several students donning Israel flags and dancing to Israeli and American music.

At 4 p.m., Indiana State Police troopers began to surround protesters on the east side of Dunn Meadow, warning them again to take down the tents. Some of the officers wore traditional state police uniforms, while others donned camouflage and helmets. Troopers had rifles, face shields and riot shields.

Troopers then advanced on protesters holding the line, and began cuffing, with zip ties, several protesters. Videos uploaded to X and Instagram show officers pushing protesters onto the ground and dragging them by their arms, shoulders and feet .

Officers then tore down the remaining tents and remained in Dunn Meadow for about 20 minutes as they continued to clear the encampment. The detained protesters were loaded onto a bus and taken to Harry Gladstein Fieldhouse by the IU Memorial Stadium.

As troopers began to leave Dunn Meadow around 4:40 p.m., protesters shouted, “We’re not done!” and repeated chants of “free Palestine.”

Andrés Guzmán, an associate professor at IU, said the response to peaceful protests showed a disregard from the IU administration for student safety.

“There’s a lot of talk on campus about safety for students, to the point where they’re ready to cancel events based on this,” Guzmán said. “This, right here, is an example of putting students in a lot of danger. Throwing students face first into the ground, almost dislocating or breaking someone’s arms to try and lift them up, that is putting students’ health and well being in danger, really.”

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Where Protesters on U.S. Campuses Have Been Arrested or Detained

By The New York Times

Police officers and university administrators have clashed with pro-Palestinian protesters on a growing number of college campuses in recent weeks, arresting students, removing encampments and threatening academic consequences. More than 2,700 people have been arrested or detained on campuses across the country.

Campus protests where arrests and detainments have taken place since April 18

The fresh wave of student activism against the war in Gaza was sparked by the arrests of at least 108 protesters at Columbia University on April 18, after administrators appeared before Congress and promised a crackdown. Since then, tensions between protesters, universities and the police have risen, prompting law enforcement to take action in some of America’s largest cities.

An earlier version of this article misstated the number of arrests at Princeton University. There have been 15 arrests, not 14.

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Our Coverage of the U.S. Campus Protests

News and Analysis

U.S.C. : The University of Southern California’s academic senate voted to censure Carol Folt , the school’s president, after several tumultuous weeks, including canceling the valedictory address of a Muslim student, clearing a protest encampment and calling in police to arrest dozens of protesters.

G.W.U. : Hours before the mayor of Washington, D.C., was scheduled to testify on Capitol Hill about the city’s handling of a pro-Palestinian encampment at George Washington University, police moved to break up the encampment .

U.C.L.A. : A police consulting firm will review a violent confrontation  at the University of California, Los Angeles, in which a group of counterprotesters attacked demonstrators  at a pro-Palestinian encampment while security guards and police officers failed to intervene.

An Agreement to Divest :  Students who oppose the war in Gaza began dismantling their protest camp  at Trinity College Dublin in Ireland, after the institution agreed to divest from three Israeli companies.

Republican Hypocrisy:  Prominent Republicans have seized on campus protests to assail what they say is antisemitism on the left. But for years they have mainstreamed anti-Jewish rhetoric .

Remembering the 1968 Protests:  As Chicago prepares to host the Democratic National Convention , it wants to shed memories of chaos from half a century ago even as the campus protests are growing.

Outside Agitators:  Officials in New York City have blamed “external actors” for escalating demonstrations at Columbia, but student protesters reject the claim .