What are some of the questions on college applications?
That is a good question. The Common Application has all new questions. Here are some of them:
• Some students have a background or story that is so central to their identity that they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
• Recount an incident or time when you experienced failure. How did it affect you and what lessons did you learn?
• Reflect on a time when you challenged a belief or idea. What prompted you to act? Would you make the same decision again?
• Describe a place or environment where you are perfectly content. What do you do or experience there and why is it meaningful to you?
• Discuss an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, that marked your transition from childhood to adulthood within your culture, community or family.
And here are College Entrance Exam questions from a few other schools:
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY
• List the print or electronic publications you read regularly (150 words of less).
• List the films, concerts, shows, exhibits, lectures and other entertainment you enjoyed most in the past year (150 words or less).
STANFORD UNIVERSITY
• Name your favorite books, authors, films, and/or musical artists.
• What newspapers, magazines, and/or websites do you enjoy?
• What is the most significant challenge that society faces today (50-word limit)?
• How did you spend your last two summers (50-word limit)?
• What were your favorite events (performances, exhibits, sporting events, etc.) this past year (50-word limit)?
• What five words best describe you?
• Stanford students possess an intellectual vitality. Reflect on an idea or experience that has been important to your intellectual development (250-word limit).
• Virtually all of Stanford’s undergraduates live on campus. Write a note to your future roommate that reveals something about you or that will help your roommate — and us — know you better (250-word limit).
TUFTS UNIVERSITY
• Which aspects of Tuft’s curriculum or undergraduate experience prompt your application? In short, why Tufts (suggested length is 50-100 words)?
• There is a Quaker saying: “Let your life speak.” Describe the environment in which you were raised – your family, home, neighborhood or community – and how it influenced the person you are today (suggested length 200-250 words).
Toby Rose is president of Toby Rose’s College Prep. She is an independent college counselor, was a Dade County Outstanding Teacher and served as chairperson of the Dade County School Board Academic Advisory Committee. Rose may be contacted by calling 305-238-7737, by email at <tobyrose19- @yahoo.com> or via the Internet at <www.tobyrose. com>. • EDUCATIONAL AND TEEN ADVICE • ASK TOBY
