<p>I'll be applying to the UCs later this year and I was hoping to get a head start on the application essay. Anybody know where I should start? Books to read on the personal statement, samples to view, successful past essays, etc.</p>
<p>I've heard things like you need to "establish your voice" (whatever that means) and write about something important. What if I've never been in anything particularly dangerous or tragic before? I mean, plenty of things that are important to me have happened before, but I'd also like to convey that to the reader. The last thing I want for them to think is "whatever" after rejecting me in favor of a student that wrote about how he or she overcame poverty or something equally admiring. I'm lucky in that I haven't had to face something like that, but then how am I supposed to wow the readers?</p>
<p>Thanks in advance.</p>
<p>Most important thing is “YOU!” Write about things that describe you and make you stand out from other applicants. Do not rely on professional help on your paper. Start your draft by writing according to the two prompts are asking. A PS can be ugly at first but it MUST be your own work, your own voice, your image.</p>
<p>I got accepted to all: UCB, UCLA, UCSD, UCI, etc…</p>
<p>Are the personal statements for this application cycle up yet?</p>
<p>I don’t know if they change every year but the UC admissions site</p>
<p>[Personal</a> statement | UC Admissions](<a href=“http://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/how-to-apply/personal-statement/index.html]Personal”>http://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/how-to-apply/personal-statement/index.html)</p>
<p>You have…</p>
<p>Transfer applicant prompt</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 for 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>The only campuses that consider the personal statement are LA, Cal, Irvine, and Merced.</p>
<p>Keep this in mind before putting in the effort. </p>
<p>Edit: You should write an essay anyways, I just mean that you shouldn’t stress over it if you’re not applying to those 4.</p>