<p>how do i start? How do we find out what the college wants us to write about, and does each UC want us to write about something different, or is there one format for all UC's? thanks.</p>
<p>One format for the UC since you're just filling out one form and then you choose which UC school to send your app. to. </p>
<p>The essay prompt is included in the application. As far as I can remember, one of the questions include a question about who inspired you to pursue college/degree. And another section with no specific question, but rather asks you to write something not mentioned in your application or two other essay sections. </p>
<p>There's really no specific formula on what to write. But keep in mind here that your GPA and EC may look quite similar to thousands of other students. What the essay question will allow you to do is to showcase something about you - the person - that ins't quite on your application. Be creative - but always keep in mind to be as honest as possible. </p>
<p>If you're passionate about the topic you're talking about, then you have to be able to convey that in your essay. In return, the readers will know you beyond the numbers and countless ECs you overachivers have. </p>
<p>I would not necessarily talk about how I am much smarter than a lot of people. No grandstanding, please.</p>
<p>I think every year differs a bit, they release the prompts for UCs around october and you have like 2 month to do them, my AP class just did it as an assignment</p>
<p>So that means i can't start my essays until about october right? And what can i do to prepare my apps right now?</p>
<p>Here's this years
<a href="http://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/admissions/undergrad_adm/apply/how_apply/personal_statement.html%5B/url%5D">http://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/admissions/undergrad_adm/apply/how_apply/personal_statement.html</a></p>
<p>They're the exact same questions every year.</p>
<p>^ That's what I thought, but I remember the first one being different ... or maybe I'm losing it.</p>
<p>Prompt #1 (freshman applicants)</p>
<p>Describe the world you come from – for example, your family, community or school – and tell us how your world has shaped your dreams and aspirations.</p>
<p>Prompt #1 (transfer applicants)</p>
<p>What is your intended major? Discuss how your interest in the subject developed and describe any experience you have had in the field – such as volunteer work, internships and employment, participation in student organizations and activities – and what you have gained from your involvement.</p>
<p>Prompt #2 (all applicants)</p>
<p>Tell us about a personal quality, talent, accomplishment, contribution or experience that is important to you. What about this quality or accomplishment makes you proud and how does it relate to the person you are</p>
<p>Ohh I didn't see that fall was different. For the winter/spring it's the same questions that they've always been, but I guess starting with Fall 08 they're changing the essays. The first one's actually a pretty interesting prompt; I would've much rather done that one. And since it's only 2 essays now, you have more room to split your 1,000 words.</p>
<p>No, it's still 3, the 3rd is the the open response.</p>
<p>for the fall it's only two</p>
<p>
[quote]
Instructions and Prompts for Fall 2008</p>
<pre><code>* Respond to both prompts, using a maximum of 1,000 words total.
[/quote]
</code></pre>
<p>Oops, lol, I was probably looking at the Spring/Winter too xP, wow, sucks they shortened it now.</p>
<p>thanks everyone</p>
<p>Hopefully this page can help you out with your essays</p>