Personal Essay Prompt 2

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more? The bronze medal went to prompt #2, the “challenge, setback, or failure” themed essay, which netted 21.1% of Common App filers.

We want to know more about you, so be honest and let us into your world.

Instead of making broad statements about what you want to do, give specific examples from high school or extracurricular activities.

So, before submitting your application, you should take the time to edit and review your essay thoroughly.

Explain your interest in the major you selected and describe how you have recently explored or developed this interest inside and/or outside the classroom.

You may also explain how this major relates to your future career goals.

If you're applying to the Division of General Studies, explain your academic interests and strengths or your future career goals.

Each year we email newly admitted and current College students and ask them for essay topics.

We receive several hundred responses, many of which are eloquent, intriguing, or downright wacky.

Submitting a sloppy-looking essay with spelling errors and glaring mistakes sends us the message that you’re not serious about Illinois.

Proofread your essays and ask your counselor, your English teacher, or a parent to take a second look.