Personal Statement

Personal Statement Guidelines 

Please answer three of the following four questions in writing that is thoughtful, clear, and creative. As you draft your compositions we suggest that you take the opportunity to explore possible responses/topics, allow time for multiple revisions, and be sure to convey the significance, value, and meaning your experiences and perspectives hold for you. Choose words and phrasing with care, and convey your understanding through specific examples, clear focus and purpose, and sound reasoning. Respond to THREE OF THE FOUR prompts below. Each composition should be between 200-250 words in length. 
 

  1. University Honors supports students to learn broadly about the human condition across multiple disciplines and perspectives. What might a broad approach to learning offer to you, to others and to your community(ies)? What does it mean to you to participate in this endeavor? 
     
  2. Explain how you have addressed a significant challenge. What did you learn about others and about yourself in dealing with this challenge? How does what you learned show your readiness to contribute to and benefit from the University Honors community?
     
  3. Select one of your activities (extracurricular, work, community, etc.) that demonstrates a deep and sustained commitment. Explain the reasons that commitment has developed, something you've learned from maintaining that commitment, and how you anticipate that commitment informing your future.
     
  4. What would it mean to you to join the University Honors community? Describe at least one perspective, skill, talent, characteristic, etc. that informs how you might contribute to building a vibrant, healthy University Honors community, and how you might benefit from that community?

Formatting requirements

Include the question at the beginning of each of your responses. Double-spaced 12 pt. font, format with one-inch margins on all four sides. Your three compositions should be clear and concise: each composition approximately 200 to 250 words in length. As always, remember to proofread your work.

At the top of the first page include the personal information requested below: 

  • Your name
  • Mailing address (Street, City, State, Zip Code)
  • Telephone number
  • E-mail address
  • UMD student ID number (if known)
  • Intended major (or Undecided if uncertain)
  • Semester-Year for which you are applying for admission

Formatting Example

Ryan Goei
455 A.B. Anderson Hall, Department of Communication
1121 University Drive
University of Minnesota Duluth
Duluth, MN 55812
218.726.7636
[email protected]
5555555
Communication
Fall 2024