<p>Should essays for summer research programs be similar to college essays? Is it better to tell a personal story that is simple yet revealing and clever? Or is it better to answer the question in a more generalized/straightforward way, if it conveys a burning desire to do research and discusses its origin?</p>
<p>bump help please</p>
<p>Bump 10 char</p>
<p>I’d also like to know</p>
<p>^^^^ me too to all those above</p>
<p>I think a combination of the two approaches can be effective. I wrote mine in a narrative style, sharing an anecdote and then continuing to explain how it relates to my passion for research. I think that given that it is less important to convey your personal qualities than in a college essay, more time can be spent describing your academic skills and interests for research. However, showing strength of character and work ethic is important to these programs too, which can be conveyed with anecdotes. Also, remember that your recommendations will speak highly of you, so there is no need to list your accomplishments.</p>
<p>Yeah, I think readyfor’s answer is spot on-- an essay for a program that involves a specific academic or artistic passion and gift should be more targeted than a college essay. That imperative to build a strong and diverse community means college application readers are looking for broader qualities-- and yes, I think would be viewing character traits with more interest; admissions readers for a summer research program will be looking for evidence of a more narrow range of skills, talents and interests. But I find that these essays are great training ground for the college essays: just paying attention to issues like word count, finding the balance between showing and telling and focusing on word choice, connotation, etc-- all of the elements that really matter in the college essays. So it’s really a great opportunity…</p>