Hi,
I am applying to the BU Rise Practicum track and the first essay topic (300 words) is why do i want to study computational neurobiology. I would like to tie this in to my work with autistic kids and how that relates to brain function. How would I start an essay with this kind of topic? Should I get straight to the point or should i begin with maybe an anecdote?
Try doing both and have someone read through the two options. As them which one they find more compelling and expresses more of the kind of applicant you are and what you would bring to the program by participating. You want to stay to the prompt but also show the kind of person you are. If it works with the anecdote, great. If it doesn’t, great. But it’s better to try both and see which one appeals to a wider range of people who read it.