I'm really confused about the essays.

Colleges & Universities A-Z University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign
1

<p>I got the UIUC 2010-2011 viewbook in the mail yesterday, and on the admissions page, there's a student giving advice on how to write the essays. To quote the viewbook: </p>

<p>"Looking back, I set out to do two things when writing admissions essays: what I did in high school and why it was so amazing. Luckily, I failed at this goal. Instead, I wrote about my fascination with black walnut trees. Retrospectively, there are two reasons it worked: 1. It stood out. I doubt too many kids did their admissions essays on the species 'fuglans nigra' or any other tree for that matter. 2. (not relevent to this thread.)"</p>

<p>In response to what this kid wrote, I'm confused. While I'd love to write about something unique and interesting like Black Walnut Trees, I don't see how that topic addresses either of the essay prompts. ('academic interests and goals' and 'elaborate on an EC')</p>

<p>So 2 questions here: </p>

<p>Is it okay to do what this kid did and write about something completely irrelevent to the prompt just because it's interesting?</p>

<p>and</p>

<p>How do you make these 2 essays "interesting/unique?" They're the most white bread topics ever and they're hard to make fun.</p>

<p>Thanks.</p>

2

<p>The essays change every year, so the student who is quoted in the Belong magazine actually had different essay topics. One of his essay questions: Describe your passions and special interests. In your opinion, what makes you unique? The other was along the lines of discussing his personal and intellectual aspirations as they relate to the academic program to which he submitted his application.</p>

<p>Since the questions were different, his response was a good one.</p>

<p>As for this year’s essay questions, they are used to find out more about the individual student, his or her interest areas and how he or she would be a good fit with the University of Illinois. Creativity can be a strength; however, it is not recommended to go too far out of the box to the point that your essays are outrageous. Honest, direct writing that reflects your true interests and abilities is the important part. It will help make your best qualities shine through.</p>