Personal Insight Statement
The personal insight questions are about getting to know you better your life experience, interests, ambitions and inspirations. Think of it as your interview with the admissions office. Be open. Be reflective. Find your individual voice and express it. There are no right or wrong answers to these questions. They are about you and your life thus far. A few tips: Present your information and ideas in a focused, thoughtful manner. Making a list of accomplishments, activities, awards or work will lessen the impact of your words. Use specific, concrete examples to support the points you want to make. Focus your examples on the present and near past. Tell us about yourself. We want to know about your personal triumphs or challenges, leadership opportunities and experiences outside the classroom. Use your own voice. Your answers should reflect your ideas and be written by you alone. Use “I” and “my” statements in your responses. Try to relax. There are many pieces of information we consider in reviewing your application; an admission decision will not be based on your responses alone. The four prompts: 1. Please describe how you have prepared for your intended major, including your readiness to succeed in your upper-division courses once you enroll at the university. 2. Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time. 3. What have you done to make your school or your community a better place? 4. 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?
