My College Essays #5 (UCs)

UC Prompt 8: Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

My perspective on life is a kaleidoscope. All of my colorful interests blend together, allowing me to view the world in a way that is like no one else’s. I have an incredibly busy schedule, but every minor detail of how I spend my time has meaning to me. I wake up practicing mindfulness and do a yoga practice to begin my day. Mental health is one of my top priorities and the morning is a time to center myself before the business begins. I make it to class just in time for the bell to ring and begin programming an app in my first period class, AP Computer Science. I have conceptualized an app about environmental issues that highlights my passion for activism. Lunch, a normal part of the day for most students, looks different every day of the week for me, reflecting the diverse groups I am a part of. On Monday, I spend my thirty minutes of solitude going over lines with the theatrical students for the upcoming play. On Tuesdays, I eat with the athletes as we talk about our high school football team making it to the playoffs, on Wednesdays you will find me leading a meeting as Student Council President, Thursdays I am booked for editing my school’s art and literary magazine called “Articulation”, Fridays I take advantage of my free afternoon by going skiing.

These patterns continue after school and each day is filled with a unique activity. Like a kaleidoscope, my day appears different every time I look at it. All of my assorted activities and hobbies add to my uniqueness as a student, musician, leader, activist, traveler, and athlete. Having so many potentials has made me a very open minded person, it has also helped me establish connections with new people. I may not end up pursuing every single one of these passions, but my diversity of interests have formed who I am today. The colors and shapes that make up each day blend together and form a shining image of me.