Common App Essay & Statement of Purpose
Find your voice, shape your arc, and present a focused, convincing case for admission.
The “Travel and Language” Essay
Prompt
Describe a problem you’ve solved or a problem you’d like to solve. It can be an intellectual challenge, a research query, an ethical dilemma—anything that is of personal importance, no matter the scale. Explain its significance to you and what steps you took or could be taken to identify a solution.
I was born in the Philippines, a country where English is not the primary language. Growing up, I struggled to learn English and often felt frustrated and embarrassed by my mistakes. I wanted to fit in with my classmates and communicate with my teachers, but I felt like an outsider. I wondered if I would ever be able to master this foreign tongue.
My opportunity came when I was 12 years old and my family moved to the United States. I was excited to start a new life in a new country, but I was also nervous about the challenges ahead. I knew that I had to work hard to improve my English skills and adapt to a different culture. I enrolled in an ESL program…and I was determined to overcome my language barrier and achieve my academic goals.
However, I soon realized that learning English was not enough. I also had to learn about the American culture, history, and values… I had to broaden my perspective and challenge my assumptions.
One of the ways I did this was by traveling… We met people from different backgrounds and learned their stories. We tried different cuisines, music, and art, and enjoyed the richness and variety of each culture.
Through these travels, I gained a deeper understanding of myself and the world… I learned to think critically and creatively, solve problems, and seek new opportunities.
Traveling and learning languages have become my passions… I believe that languages are the keys to unlocking the doors of knowledge and understanding.
I am grateful for the opportunity to live and learn in the United States… I believe that by traveling and learning languages, we can not only solve problems, but also create solutions that make the world better.
Why this works:
- Directly answers the prompt and shows growth.
- Uses concrete scenes and reflection (show + tell).
- Reveals interests, values, and trajectory.
- Connects personal story to a larger context.
Example reference: College Essay Guy
The “Why Engineering” SOP
I have always been fascinated by the power of engineering to transform the world… I aspire to contribute to solutions for climate change, energy security, and equitable access.
My interest was sparked early… science fairs, construction site visits with my father, and hands-on projects nurtured my curiosity.
In high school I excelled in math and science and led robotics initiatives focused on social good… For my senior project, I built a landmine-detection robot inspired by humanitarian crises.
At Berkeley, I deepened fundamentals (mechanics, thermo, fluids, materials) and gained design/simulation skills (AutoCAD, MATLAB, ANSYS).
I’m applying to Stanford’s MS in Mechanical Engineering to pursue robotics, biomechanics, and renewable energy with leading faculty…
Long-term: become a professor-researcher, mentor future engineers, and advance work that measurably improves quality of life.
Why this works:
- Clear motivation + sustained evidence of preparation.
- Specific research interests and program fit.
- Forward-looking goals that connect to past work.