Written statement

For the UW-Madison application, the second prompt for the written statement says: Tell us why you decided to apply to the University of Wisconsin–Madison. In addition, share with us the academic, extracurricular, or research opportunities you would take advantage of as a student. If applicable, provide details of any circumstance that could have had an impact on your academic performance and/or extracurricular involvement.

How serious or creative do admission counselors want the response to be?

You can be both serious and creative at the same time. Remember that this statement is about YOU- show who you are by how you choose to respond. Figure out what works to show yourself in the best light. If you are creative be sure your message about why you belong at UW gets across and not lost in an attempt to be creative.