<p>So I just sent my essay in yesterday (considering I was accepted in December...I probably should have applied earlier. whoops. :(..) and I wrote my essay on the prompt, "Explain unicorns." It is not that I think it was weak, but it was mostly a research based essay discussing all of the myths surrounding unicorns.</p>
<p>Yet (and please do excuse my paranoia) I spoke with a friend who also applied using that essay topic, but wrote hers in a creative style with no research about how they were created (implying that they do exist). Neither of us have heard anything yet...Honestly I am not too terribly concerned, as I understand that they are looking for how we think and how our minds work...But I cannot help but feel a bit curious. How many were accepted already with a more research based essay, versus how many took a risk on the creative style approach? </p>
<p>And although I am trying to remain content here :), does anyone think that I might be wrong...and that there might be some sort of pro or con to either of these essay styles?</p>
<p>I was accepted and I also did the “Explain Unicorns” prompt. I took the creative approach, implying that they are real. But I’m sure if your essay is well written the admissions people will appreciate it :)</p>
<p>I think that they primarily want an essay that shows thought and effort, don’t fret over whether or not yours was too ‘research-based’. As long as they can clearly tell you spent some time on it you should be fine. Moreover, they care more about GPA/ACT anyways; the essay holds some weight obviously, but it also serves to make sure that those they admit at least care enough about Michigan to spend time writing an essay.</p>
<p>Well…I applied early February with the 1st prompt about the classroom,potato, stick of paint, etc. I was accepted. My approach was creative, but also inquisitive and intellectual, I hope. It took them less than a week to respond. Since the RD admissions process is starting, it may take longer.</p>
<p>Yeah, just because you get an invitation doesn’t mean you automatically get in, although it does increase your likelihood of acceptance. I just went to an LSA honors information session on campus today and they actually review everything, including your original essays, recommendations, test scores and transcripts, as well as the new essay. They also said that 50% of the actual enrolling LSA honors class was never sent an email, so don’t think that if you don’t receive one you have no chance.</p>
<p>xzxpvp7xzx - May I know why you dropped Honors in the end? I’m hesitating whether I should apply for the Honors Program. I’ve not been invited to join, but the smaller community + more interaction with faculty opportunities sound appealing; on the other hand I’m quite lazy to do an essay, so I’d like to hear more about your opinion on that program. Thanks.</p>
<p>My D got a big kick out of those unicorn and potato prompts when she opened that Honors e-mail…I’d much rather read the creative responses those topics should generate than, “Tell me about an obstacle you overcame…” for the 917th time.</p>
<p>paperstars123 - While I can’t speak for the other poster and his/her reasons for dropping honors, I’m also in the program and am not too impressed with it. You don’t get many added benefits at all (I actually can’t think of any, besides getting to live in South Quad, which I’ve heard is not that social on most Honors floors). I can’t think of any increased faculty contact I’ve gotten from Honors either… honestly, that’s something you create yourself. I do have a really good relationship with my Great Books GSI and several other professors I’ve had this year, but that’s because I actively made it a priority to go to office hours, which you can do with or without honors. It doesn’t hurt to apply and see what happens, but if you’re looking for a smaller community, I suggest doing a different learning community. I’m in the Health Science Scholars Program here and I am 100% happy with that decision and value HSSP much more highly than Honors.</p>
<p>Also… it’s not true of everyone, but a lot of people I’ve come across in Honors are just really unpleasant to be around. The amount of arrogance and unnecessary putting down of others in my Honors classes made me really dread going to them, though I admit the quality of discussion and thought in these classes was a lot higher than in my other classes.</p>
<p>I do echo what the other poster said about the essay not being really important, though. It wasn’t the best or worst thing I’ve ever written, but mine definitely wasn’t overly creative at all. I also was invited to apply, however, so I am not sure if the standards are somewhat higher for those who just applied on their own. I’m guessing not, though.</p>
<p>the benefit is living in south quad, which is on central campus. Great location. Although if I could pick, I’d live in markley since most freshman live there.</p>
<p>Sooo… I applied to the honors program using the “explain unicorns” prompt… They told me about 2 weeks and will respond by email… I applied 2 months ago… I still haven’t gotten any response back whatsoever :/</p>
<p>I used quantum mechanics in my explanation for the potato one, and haven’t heard back yet, although I’m not really planning on going to UMich next year (need to get the hell out of this state).</p>
<p>I sent my essay in (potato, book, paint) about a month ago…? I wish they would reply back with a decision I’m really hoping I get in, it would help convince my parents to send me to UMich.</p>
<p>I actually ended up getting accepted to LSA Honors this week with like 28,000 in just scholarships and a grant. I am really happy!!! And I would love to go, but I am now considering taking a year or two off to go to CA and do some theater stuff…SIGH decisions decisions. Either way I am really thrilled and good luck to all!</p>
<p>Congrats!!! I have a few questions. Were your scholarships specifically from the Honors college and do you have any financial need or were they solely merit based???</p>
I’m really hoping I get in, it would help convince my parents to send me to UMich.</p>