• The A.V. Club
  • The Takeout
  • The Inventory

University of Michigan Says It's Not Selling Student Data to AI Companies

Tech employees are getting cold emails offering free samples of essays and recordings of students’ voices..

The gates of the University of Micigain stadium

On Thursday morning, news broke that someone was going around selling student data from the University of Michigan to tech workers that build AI chatbot tech. An employee at Google DeepMind, the company’s AI research hub, said they’d gotten an offer for recordings of lectures, student discussions, and office hours, as well as essays written by seniors and grad students all available for a paltry licensing fee. Now, the University says it was all a misunderstanding, that students gave their consent, and there’s nothing to worry about.

Susan Zhang, an engineer at DeepMind, said that she’d received a sponsored LinkedIn message hawking the information, and offering a free sample of the University of Michigan data to prove its worth.

“I’m reaching out because, based on your profile, you may be working with Large Language models (LLM’s) or natural language processing,” the sales message said. “I wanted to let you know that the University of Michigan is licensing academic speech data and student papers that could be very useful for training or tuning LLM’s.”

The message offers data from 85 hours worth of lectures, discussion sections, and interviews for $15,595, a second set of 829 papers written by University of Michigan students across various disciplines for $12,595, or a discount package for both data sets at $25,000.

However, the message “was sent out by a new third-party vendor that shared inaccurate information and has since been asked to halt their work,” Colleen Mastony a University of Michigan spokesperson, said in an email. “No transactions or sharing of content occurred by the vendor. Student data was not and has never been for sale by the University of Michigan.” Mastony didn’t share details about who this vendor was, or what, exactly, was inaccurate about the information they offered.

The University may not be selling the data directly, but it is (or was) being offered for sale by an organization called Catalyst Research Alliance, which claims to partner the University of Michigan as well as North Carolina State University. The website offers a sample of the data set , which comes with an essay titled “The Democratic Inadequacies of the European Union,” and what appears to be a recording of a class discussion section.

Catalyst Research Alliance and North Carolina State University did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

According to Mastony, the recordings and the papers were contributed by student volunteers who participated in two decades-old research studies, and none of the data included students’ names or any other personally identifiable information “These particular papers and recordings have long been available for free to academics – again without any identifying information – and have been used as a tool to improve writing and articulation in education,” Mastony said.

“I think it’s worth pursuing which universities are selling student data and what the terms are,” Zhang told Gizmodo in a message on X. “Licensing is better than scraping data without attribution but the attribution pipelines here are likely only built halfway (aka original creators won’t see a dime, whereas the reseller who stores data will capture all the profits).”

Training large language models like the software that runs chatbots such as ChatGPT and Bard requires massive, clearly labeled data sets across various subjects and disciplines. While the University of Michigan data set is small, well-organized content on a narrow swath of subjects could be useful for tuning certain models, particularly tools designed for specific purposes related to academia, formal communication, or for training more general AIs to improve their performance on individual areas of subject matter expertise.

Update 02/15/2024, 5:45 p.m. ET: This story has been updated with comments from the University of Michigan.

Gizmodo

University of Michigan Says It's Not Selling Student Data to AI Companies

O n Thursday morning, news broke that someone was going around selling student data from the University of Michigan to tech workers that build AI chatbot tech. An employee at Google DeepMind, the company’s AI research hub, said they’d gotten an offer for recordings of lectures, student discussions, and office hours, as well as essays written by seniors and grad students all available for a paltry licensing fee. Now, the University says it was all a misunderstanding, that students gave their consent, and there’s nothing to worry about.

Susan Zhang, an engineer at DeepMind, said that she’d received a sponsored LinkedIn message hawking the information, and offering a free sample of the University of Michigan data to prove its worth.

“I’m reaching out because, based on your profile, you may be working with Large Language models (LLM’s) or natural language processing,” the sales message said. “I wanted to let you know that the University of Michigan is licensing academic speech data and student papers that could be very useful for training or tuning LLM’s.”

The message offers data from 85 hours worth of lectures, discussion sections, and interviews for $15,595, a second set of 829 papers written by University of Michigan students across various disciplines for $12,595, or a discount package for both data sets at $25,000.

However, the message “was sent out by a new third-party vendor that shared inaccurate information and has since been asked to halt their work,” Colleen Mastony a University of Michigan spokesperson, said in an email. “No transactions or sharing of content occurred by the vendor. Student data was not and has never been for sale by the University of Michigan.” Mastony didn’t share details about who this vendor was, or what, exactly, was inaccurate about the information they offered.

The University may not be selling the data directly, but it is (or was) being offered for sale by an organization called Catalyst Research Alliance, which claims to partner the University of Michigan as well as North Carolina State University. The website offers a sample of the data set , which comes with an essay titled “The Democratic Inadequacies of the European Union,” and what appears to be a recording of a class discussion section.

Catalyst Research Alliance and North Carolina State University did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

According to Mastony, the recordings and the papers were contributed by student volunteers who participated in two decades-old research studies, and none of the data included students’ names or any other personally identifiable information “These particular papers and recordings have long been available for free to academics – again without any identifying information – and have been used as a tool to improve writing and articulation in education,” Mastony said.

“I think it’s worth pursuing which universities are selling student data and what the terms are,” Zhang told Gizmodo in a message on X. “Licensing is better than scraping data without attribution but the attribution pipelines here are likely only built halfway (aka original creators won’t see a dime, whereas the reseller who stores data will capture all the profits).”

Training large language models like the software that runs chatbots such as ChatGPT and Bard requires massive, clearly labeled data sets across various subjects and disciplines. While the University of Michigan data set is small, well-organized content on a narrow swath of subjects could be useful for tuning certain models, particularly tools designed for specific purposes related to academia, formal communication, or for training more general AIs to improve their performance on individual areas of subject matter expertise.

Update 02/15/2024, 5:45 p.m. ET: This story has been updated with comments from the University of Michigan.

Sign up for Gizmodo's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .

Click here to read the full article.

The gates of the University of Micigain stadium

College Advisor logo

University of Michigan Essay Examples (And Why They Worked)

Avatar photo

The following University of Michigan essay examples were written by authors who were admitted to University of Michigan (UMich). All names have been redacted for anonymity. Please note that CollegeAdvisor.com has shared these essays with admissions officers at University of Michigan in order to deter potential plagiarism.

For more help with your University of Michigan essays, check out our 2020-2021 University of Michigan Essay Guide ! For more guidance on personal essays and the college application process in general, sign up for a monthly plan to work with an admissions coach 1-on-1.

Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests?

Given the excellent academic program, the University of Michigan provides a wonderful opportunity for me to learn and grow both as a student and person. During my recent tour of campus, I was excited about the idea that I had the potential to make a mark on this large university. Furthermore, I got the sense that there were many opportunities for me to create a community, excel in a variety of academic and leadership areas, and prepare myself for an exciting and fulfilling career.

I am most interested in the Program in Biology within the College of Literature, Science and the Arts. As an avid life science student with a keen interest in environmental science and biodiversity, I am most interested in the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology major. In my AP biology course, for instance, the lab I found most interesting involved animal behavior with response to wet and dry environments. As a student within the Department of EEB, I would be able to learn more about biodiversity and the history of life on earth. The depth and breadth of the curriculum, including classes such as Animals Functioning in Environments and Animal Diversity, would be particularly interesting to me. Another exciting unique opportunity is the University of Michigan’s Biological Station in the Great Lakes region. As a member of a research team, I would be able to examine natural habitats and do lab experiments in the field. I am more than excited to be part of such a scientific community. I am also interested in exploring forest succession and ecosystem processes through the Forest Ecosystem Study. Furthermore, I would be interested in studying abroad during my time at Michigan. One program that interested me was the CGIS trip to the London School of Economics and Political Sciences where I could further my study of biology, but in a new setting. Michigan’s strength of curricular and hands-on opportunities would certainly offer me ways to continue and develop my interest in biology.

Outside of the classroom and field, I would like to share my enthusiasm about biology with like-minded students by joining the Biology Student Alliance and Society of Biology Students. And, while not directly related to biology and ecology, as a Michigan student, I look forward to joining the Michigan Academics Competition. As captain of my school’s Academic team, a Quiz Bowl style trivia competition, I enjoy researching and recalling science (and history) facts. As a biology student, I am confident that I would become one of the biology specialists on the Michigan Academics Competition and Quiz Bowl Team.

Michigan’s incredible opportunities within the Program of Biology would enable me to have access to a world class education. Furthermore, the unique field experience and research opportunities would enable me to make my mark on the University.

Why this University of Michigan essay worked, according to an ex-admissions officer

In this essay, the author begins by praising the University’s academics and then expresses how much of an opportunity it would be to get to matriculate at UMich. They uses energetic words and direct verbs. The sentences exude intention. In the first paragraph alone, this student tells us that they will hold dear an opportunity to attend UMich. They inform us that they will benefit as a person and a scholar and will also give back to the community while on campus.

The author then goes on to tell us what programs they would like to join at UMich. Yet while doing so, the author interjects their own interests, talents and experiences. By doing this, we can clearly see that the author has the curiosity and ability to effectively join these classes and programs. The author renders their own experiences in three dimensions, making it clear that they would be an excellent candidate.

The writer walks us through exactly what they plan to study and how they hope to integrate into the community. This inspires confidence in us as readers.

This student would be an avid contributor to UMich. Though the essay is direct, it has complexity and ends by reiterating that this student intends to make an impact. If you’re interested in attending UMich, don’t forget to use our College Search Feature! You’ll find all kinds of interesting information on everything from academics to financial aid along with helpful school-specific admissions resources.

College Search Feature

I always had a keen interest in numbers, probability, and finance. Early on, I could run numbers quickly: calculating sales tax, analyzing probabilities, and visualizing complex mathematical models in my head. After taking two AP classes in economics and one in statistics, I became increasingly intrigued with the mathematical representations of the different product and labor markets of the economy and modeling statistical outcomes, sparking my desire to pursue a career in that field through preferred action admission to Ross. Thus, I have set my sights on becoming an actuary since risk management is highly intriguing and allows me to use my talents in mathematical and statistical analysis as well as in written and verbal communication. The curriculum at Ross, coupled with the liberal arts requirements, will provide me with the necessary background to pursue my career goals.

At Ross, I will have the privilege of pursuing a Bachelor in Business Administration, providing me with a well-rounded background in management and economic analysis. I am particularly looking forward to the TO 301: Business Analytics and Statistics course taught by Dr. Shimi Nassiri, as it develops the skills of proper statistical and economic analysis and subsequent decision making. As well, it provides in-class experience of analyzing and modelling real data sets. I am also invested in Dr. Nassiri research of more efficient and effective healthcare solutions. As a Hispanic teenager, I feel very strongly about Dr. Shima Nassiri research on health care as it greatly impacts both the Hispanic and other minority communities. I am also eager for the 360° Thinking portion of the Ross curriculum. Particularly, the junior year course MO 300: Behavioral Theory in Management greatly intrigues me. It entails an in depth analysis of societal trends and how to develop creative and efficient responses as a manager. This class would provide a strong foundation for me in the analysis of social sciences and how they intertwine with economics. Additionally, what draws me to Ross is the emphasis on teambuilding and leadership skills which play a crucial role in molding successful business leaders in today’s rapidly changing world economy. My experience as a faculty-selected “Peer Leader” at Manalapan High School has provided a gateway into the fundamentals of leadership, and I look forward to expanding my skills through the unique leadership portion of the Ross curriculum as well as various leadership programs, such as the Leadership Experience Program (LDRx). The opportunity to develop both the tangible and intangible skills, which separate the accomplished leaders from the rest of the pack, will help me to create meaningful relationships both in the business world and the greater world community.

While I expect to learn a great deal at Ross, I feel my upbringing will permit me to contribute to Ross. I grew up surrounded by Latin salsa, spices, sights, and sounds, but that was not all. Since my parents immigrated from Cuba, I grew up with stories of the political and economic struggles my family faced. It is through these stories that I have gained an understanding of the influence of leadership and the importance of economical and statistical analysis to grow an economy. I hope to share my cultural background and perspective as a Hispanic man at Ross.

This essay leaves me with absolutely no doubt that this student belongs on the Ross campus at UMich. He begins very directly by telling us about himself and his skill set. He gives us a brief evolution of his mathematical interests — how they started and where he will direct them.

He has researched Ross, knows one of their leading professors, knows her academic body of work, knows the specific classes, and has made himself a 4 year plan regarding what he will take and to which programs he will add. He very articulately describes this progression. The reader can clearly imagine him as an enthusiastic participant.

Intermittently, this student references how his education will be applied in healthcare and leadership capacities. He also shares his Cuban culture with us, reminding us that he is more than just academics. Finally, he finishes with a proud determination he will be a Hispanic Ross Man. How could we question that?

These University of Michigan essay examples were compiled by the advising team at CollegeAdvisor.com . If you want to get help writing your University of Michigan application essays from CollegeAdvisor.com Admissions Experts , register with CollegeAdvisor.com today.

Personalized and effective college advising for high school students.

  • Advisor Application
  • Popular Colleges
  • Privacy Policy and Cookie Notice
  • Student Login
  • California Privacy Notice
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Your Privacy Choices

By using the College Advisor site and/or working with College Advisor, you agree to our updated Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy , including an arbitration clause that covers any disputes relating to our policies and your use of our products and services.

  • Michigan Ross School of Business Essay Tips and Examples

June 23, 2023

Jeremy Shinewald

University of Michigan (Ross) Essay Analysis - mbaMission

In our view, the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan takes a very no-nonsense, just-the-facts approach to its application essays (even the scope of its optional essay is relatively narrow). For the school’s “short answer” questions, candidates choose one prompt from each of two lists of three and are asked to submit what are essentially mini essays of just 100 words. In Ross’s (again concise) 150-word-total career “essay,” candidates share and explain their short-term professional aspirations, thereby demonstrating for the admissions committee that they have a plan in mind and have given serious thought to why they need a Ross MBA to achieve their goal. No specific word limit is stated for the program’s optional essay, but applicants are gently encouraged to use bullet points in their response, reinforcing our impression that the program really just wants the key facts about its candidates, without any extraneous filler. Read on for our full analysis of the school’s 2023–2024 essay prompts.

University of Michigan (Ross) Essay Analysis, 2023–2024

Part 1: Short Answers 

Select one prompt from each group of the two groups below. respond to each selected prompt in 100 words or less (<100 words each; 200 words total)., i want people to know that i:, i made a difference when i:, i was aware that i was different when:, i was out of my comfort zone when:, i was humbled when:, i was challenged when:.

The Ross admissions committee clearly hopes these mini essays will reveal distinctive facets of applicants’ personalities in a straightforward manner, unencumbered by any unnecessary wordiness. Given the mere 100-word maximum for each, you might be tempted to just jump in and start writing, but thinking strategically about who you are as an applicant is critical here. 

We encourage you to first consider very carefully which option within each group feels most authentic to and revelatory of who you are as an individual. Then, thoroughly and thoughtfully brainstorm to identify your strongest possible responses. You want to be able to “own” your answer—as we like to say—meaning that no other applicant could write the same thing as you do. Using the second prompt of the first group as an example (“I made a difference when I…”), writing something like “gave back to my community by volunteering with the local homeless shelter” would be far too general a response and could likely be stated by multiple applicants. Instead, something much more specific like “dedicated every Saturday morning for three years to helping cook and serve scrambled eggs, biscuits, and bacon at the local homeless shelter, where I introduced a bulk-shopping plan that saved hundreds of dollars each year on supplies” would stand out for its originality and paint a clearer picture of the candidate who wrote it with respect to their values, dedication, and fiscal creativity. In addition, using a narrative approach is a good way to paint a dynamic picture of how you conduct yourself and to engage your reader with a compelling story that has a clear beginning, middle, and end. If you simply discuss a trait without a narrative, you risk sounding as though you are bragging. In addition, this would be a wasted opportunity for the admissions reader to get to know you in more depth.

When you are done writing, look over your responses and see whether they are complementary of one another. If they seem repetitive or focus on the same general idea, story, or area of your life, you should probably rewrite one. Your goal is to have each response reveal something new and interesting about you. Another factor to consider is everything the admissions committee will already know about you from the other portions of your application; you do not want to miss this chance to paint a well-rounded picture of yourself by repeating information available elsewhere in your profile. 

So, to recap, you want your responses to (1) genuinely reflect who you are as a candidate and be as specific to you alone as possible; (2) present a narrative that allows the reader to walk in your shoes, so to speak; (3) be complementary of each other, with each one revealing something different about you; and (4) not repeat an aspect of your profile that is already well explained or represented in a different part of your application.

​Part 2: Career Goal

What is your short-term career goal and why is this the right goal for you (150 words) .

With just 150 words total, you do not have any space to waste here, so you must present your answer as directly and thoroughly as possible—and give the admissions committee what it wants! In the past, the Ross admissions office has expressed a preference for responses that concentrate more on the “why” than on the “what,” and at one time, it even separated this prompt into two parts to ensure that applicants used more space discussing the latter element. Although the school is no longer prescribing just how much space candidates have for each part of the prompt, we would still encourage you to focus primarily on conveying your reason for choosing the goal, rather than getting overly wordy or detailed in presenting the goal itself. 

To effectively convey the “why” element, you should include a little context for your stated goal so that your career path makes sense. Stating your goals in a vacuum, without any connection to where you have been, can be a bit confusing for the reader, especially if you are a career changer. For example, imagine that you plan to move from consumer marketing to equity research for consumer goods companies after graduating. If you were to simply state, “Post-MBA, I want to join a boutique equity research firm” as your opening sentence, your reader could be left wondering where this interest comes from. But if you were to instead write, “For the past four years, I have basically lived and breathed Fruity Pebbles. I now understand how the tiniest increase in coconut oil prices or a competitor’s coupon can affect a product’s margins. I have subsequently become obsessed with the big data that drive computer goods and want to spend the next phase of my career in equity research, helping investors understand the riddle.” These are two very different answers, all because of some helpful context. From here, you can delve deeper into why equity research is right for you—how you intend to grow in your role and further develop your passion for the position. 

Michigan Ross does not ask you why its program is the right one for you, but we encourage you—if at all possible—to note at least one specific resource at the school that would enable you to make your career goal a reality. Truly integrate your mention of the resource(s) into your essay in a way that shows genuine professional need. We explain these concepts and how to achieve them in more detail in our  mbaMission Personal Statement Guide , which is available free of charge, so download your complimentary copy today!

And for a thorough exploration of Michigan Ross’s academic program/merits, social life, unique offerings, and other key characteristics, check out the  mbaMission Insider’s Guide to the University of Michigan’s Stephen M. Ross School of Business , which is also available for free.

Optional Statement

If there is any other information that you believe is important to our assessment of your candidacy, feel free to add it to your application. (if in written form, limit your response to 500 words.).

Michigan Ross has tightly worded its optional essay prompt to  specify that this essay is intended to give candidates space to address unclear or problem areas in their profiles and is not an open invitation to discuss anything more they wish to share with the admissions committee. The directive about bullet points seems to be a not-too-veiled implication that the school wants you to focus on imparting key information rather than offering a detailed and longwinded explanation of the issue in question. This is absolutely not the time or place to share another cool story or otherwise try to impress or pander to the admissions committee. If you do not truly need to explain an issue or potentially confusing element of your candidacy, we recommend that you not submit an optional essay; if you do have issues to clarify, keep things concise. In our free  mbaMission Optional Essays Guide , we offer detailed advice on when and how to take advantage of the optional essay, including multiple examples.

The Next Step: Mastering Your Michigan Ross Interview

Many MBA candidates find admissions interviews stressful and intimidating, but mastering this important element of the application process is definitely possible—the key is informed preparation. We therefore offer our free Interview Guides to spur you along! Download your  free  copy of the  Michigan Ross Interview Guide  today.

To learn more about the essays for other top business schools, visit our  MBA Essay Tips and Examples Resources Page .

2023-2024 Business School Essays MBA Essay Tips University of Michigan (Ross)

Tags: business school essay career goals free guides Insider's Guides MBA application essays Michigan Ross optional essay

Upcoming Events

  • Feb 27, 2024 Choosing the Right B-School (Online)

Upcoming Deadlines

  • Feb 22, 2024 Duke Fuqua (Round 3)
  • Feb 25, 2024 Ohio Fisher (Round 3)
  • Feb 27, 2024 Vanderbilt Owen (Round 3)
  • Mar 1, 2024 USC Marshall (Round 3)
  • Mar 4, 2024 Carnegie Mellon Tepper (Round 3)
  • Mar 4, 2024 Toronto Rotman (Round 3)
  • Mar 5, 2024 INSEAD (Round 4)
  • Mar 11, 2024 Cambridge Judge (Round 4)
  • Mar 14, 2024 UW Foster (Round 3)
  • Mar 19, 2024 Notre Dame Mendoza (Round 3)
  • Mar 20, 2024 Emory Goizueta (Round 3)
  • Mar 20, 2024 Oxford Saïd (Round 3)
  • Mar 21, 2024 IESE (Round 3)
  • Mar 25, 2024 Dartmouth Tuck (Round 3)
  • Mar 25, 2024 London Business School (Round 3)
  • Mar 26, 2024 Texas McCombs (Round 3)
  • Mar 26, 2024 Vanderbilt Owen (Round 4)
  • Mar 28, 2024 Berkeley Haas (Round 4)

Click here to see the complete deadlines

2023–2024 MBA Essay Tips

  • Berkeley Haas School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
  • BU Questrom School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
  • Cambridge Judge Business School Essay Tips and Examples
  • Carnegie Mellon Tepper School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
  • Chicago Booth School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
  • Columbia Business School Essay Tips and Examples
  • Cornell Johnson Graduate School of Management Essay and Examples
  • Dartmouth Tuck School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
  • Duke Fuqua School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
  • Emory Goizueta Business School Essay Tips and Examples
  • Esade Essay Tips and Examples
  • Georgetown McDonough School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
  • Harvard Business School 2+2 Deferred MBA Program Essay Analysis 2024
  • Harvard Business School Essay Tips and Examples
  • HEC Paris Essay Tips and Examples
  • HKUST Business School Essay Tips and Examples
  • IE Business School Essay Tips and Examples
  • IESE Business School Essay Tips and Examples
  • INSEAD Essay Tips and Examples
  • International Institute for Management Development (IMD) Essay Tips and Examples
  • Ivey Business School Essay Tips and Examples
  • London Business School Essay Tips and Examples
  • MIT Sloan School of Management Essay Tips and Examples
  • Northwestern Kellogg School of Management Essay Tips and Examples
  • Notre Dame Mendoza College of Business Essay Tips and Examples
  • NYU Stern School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
  • Ohio Fisher College of Business Essay Tips and Examples
  • Oxford Saïd Business School Essay Tips and Examples
  • SMU Cox School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
  • Stanford Graduate School of Business Application Essay Tips and Examples
  • Texas McCombs School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
  • The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management Essay Tips and Examples
  • The Wharton School Essay Tips and Examples
  • Toronto Rotman School of Management Essay Tips and Examples
  • UCLA Anderson School of Management Essay Tips and Examples
  • UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School Essay Tips and Examples
  • USC Marshall School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
  • UVA Darden School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
  • UW Foster School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
  • Vanderbilt University Owen Graduate School of Management Essay Analysis, 2023–2024
  • Villanova School of Business Essay Tips and Examples
  • Yale School of Management Essay Tips and Examples

Click here for the 2022–2023 MBA Essay Tips

MBA Program Updates

  • Berkeley-Haas
  • Boston University (Questrom)
  • Cambridge Judge Business School
  • Carnegie Mellon University (Tepper)
  • Columbia University (Columbia Business School)
  • Consortium for Graduate Study in Management
  • Cornell University (Johnson)
  • Dartmouth College (Tuck)
  • Duke University (Fuqua)
  • Emory University (Goizueta)
  • George Washington University (GWSB)
  • Georgetown University (McDonough)
  • Harvard University (Harvard Business School)
  • IE Business School
  • IESE Business School
  • Indian School of Business
  • Indiana University (Kelley)
  • Ivey Business School
  • London Business School
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Sloan)
  • New York University (Stern)
  • Northwestern University (Kellogg)
  • Notre Dame (Mendoza)
  • Ohio State University (Fisher College)
  • Oxford University (Saïd Business School)
  • Penn State Smeal College of Business
  • Rotman School of Management
  • Saïd Business School
  • Southern Methodist University (Cox School of Business)
  • Stanford University (Stanford Graduate School of Business)
  • University of California Los Angeles (Anderson)
  • University of Cambridge (Judge)
  • University of Chicago (Booth)
  • University of London (London Business School)
  • University of Michigan (Ross)
  • University of North Carolina (Kenan-Flagler)
  • University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)
  • University of Southern California (Marshall)
  • University of Texas at Austin (McCombs)
  • University of Virginia (Darden)
  • Vanderbilt University (Owen)
  • Villanova School of Business
  • Yale University (School of Management)

university of michigan artifact essay

Ann Arbor, Michigan

University of michigan.

  • Cost & scholarships
  • Admission requirements
  • Essay prompts

Want to see your chances of admission at University of Michigan?

We take every aspect of your personal profile into consideration when calculating your admissions chances.

University of Michigan’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Community short response.

Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it.

Why This Major Short Response

Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests?

Common App Personal Essay

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

university of michigan artifact essay

College essay resources

How to write every ross school of business essay for the university of michigan, school supplements.

How to Write Every Ross School of Business Essay for the University of Michigan

Brad Schiller

In the Ross School of Business Application, there are two supplemental essays. These essays will give you the opportunity to showcase your problem-solving skills and your passion for business. This guide will help you develop compelling topics that show why you’re a great fit for Ross!

Let’s take a look at the first Ross School of Business essay prompt!

‍ Prompt 1: Current Event or Community Issue

Choose a current event or issue in your community and discuss the business implications.

Propose a solution that incorporates business principles or practices. The review panel will look for creativity, drawing connections, and originality. Please limit this response to approximately 500 words.

This Ross School of Business essay is all about applying your business knowledge to a real-life problem. How would you use business to improve your community?

To develop a great topic, start by making a brainstorming list of 2-4 problems in your community, big or small.

Let’s look at an example student’s brainstorming list:

  • Reducing food waste at local grocery stores
  • My school’s robotics club always struggles to fundraise enough money to attend competitions
  • None of the independent bookstores in my area are wheelchair-accessible

Once you’ve made your list, try to think of a solution for each problem that incorporates business principles or practices.

How to pick the right topic?

Don’t write about an issue with an obvious solution. This is a chance to show that you can be an innovative problem-solver!

Do write about a problem you feel excited about solving with your business skills. Pick a topic that you’re genuinely interested in!

Prompt 2: Document or Artifact

Upload a document or artifact that represents something significant about your life to show your learning in action. Describe how your artifact demonstrates your learning in action. Please limit this response to approximately 250 words.

This is a pretty quirky prompt – where to start? The key phrase in this prompt is “your learning in action.” Admissions readers will be looking for details about a learning experience that was important to you.

First, make a brainstorming list of 3-4 learning experiences that you really loved. Try to focus on experiences where you learned something about business. This could be a class, a personal project, an internship or summer program, or anything else that taught you about business! Which learning experiences have been exciting or memorable for you?

Tip: Focus on recent learning experiences, from the past four years or so. Your admissions readers will want to know how you’ve pursued your interest in business lately!

  • Summer pre-college business program at Cornell
  • Starting an online business selling t-shirts
  • Organizing a Dog Beach Day in my community as a fundraiser for an animal shelter

Next, try to think of documents or artifacts that you could use to represent one of these experiences. If you can’t think of an artifact, cross that option off your list!

Here are the example student’s artifact ideas:

  • A business proposal written during the pre-college business program
  • A screenshot of the t-shirt business website
  • A photo from the Dog Beach Day event

From there, think about what each experience taught you. Take some notes on what you learned about business from each experience.

Finally, since this is a short essay, you’ll need to pick just one topic to write about. Choose one topic from your brainstorming list. If you’re not sure which one to choose, pick an experience where you learned something valuable about business.

Since this is a short essay, you'll want to be direct. For tips on structuring supplements with low word counts, check out our supplement guide .  For tips on the other University of Michigan essay prompts, check out our University of Michigan essay guide . 

How to Ace Boston University’s Supplemental Essay | Guide & Examples, 2022-2023

university of michigan artifact essay

How to Write a Strong “Why Major” Essay | 2023

university of michigan artifact essay

Writing the Why Tulane Essay (and the rest of the Tulane Supplement) | 2022-2023

university of michigan artifact essay

How to Ace NYU’s Supplemental Essays: Guide & Examples | 2022-2023

Writing the “why major” bucknell supplement, strong essays increase your chances of admissions by 10x. you don't have to tackle your essays alone., subscribe to our newsletter, and stay in the loop..

university of michigan artifact essay

  • Become a Writing Coach
  • Writing Center
  • Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
  • Sign Up for an Essay Coaching Package
  • College Essay Feedback for High Schools
  • Prompt for IECs

UMich Ross Artifact Dilemma

According to Ross’ admissions blog, they say "When choosing an artifact, try to find the “missing piece” in your application. What don’t we know about you? Consider sharing something that you are proud of and that is unique to your identity or your personal story. " and then later suggest “a high school project or paper, a community newspaper article highlighting an important achievement, a personal website, a piece on a school or community program or event that you were instrumental in creating or implementing, or a certificate of a high school or community award.”

:slight_smile:

IDK but I’m applying to Ross too in-state. If you need another example, someone I knew showed a before and after of her resume freshmen year and senior year (to show some shocking growth I guess).

POPULAR STATES

Search sat scores, search act scores, search gpa’s, subscribe to our newsletter.

Stay informed with the latest from the CC community, delivered to you, for free.

CONNECT WITH US

© 2023 College Confidential, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

  • Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

How Museums Handle Cultural Artifacts

More from our inbox:, biden’s ‘stellar climate leadership’, giving voters choices beyond the two major parties, make sat tutoring free.

A photograph of three white museum display cases standing empty in a white room.

To the Editor:

Re “ Accountability for Museums’ Plunder, at Last ,” by Erin Thompson (Opinion guest essay, Feb. 5):

Some might cringe at Ms. Thompson’s suggestion that museums that return stolen artifacts could replace them with replicas.

Frankly, my recent museum visits to big-name shows have left me more irritated than awed by being in the presence of revered “originals.”

First, the virtual queue tickets, then the snaking lines and then the crush — straining to see over the heads of other acolytes, some of whom cannot resist giving curatorial mini-lectures to their companions as they block your view entirely. And all those iPhones snapping away, held high to capture every precious moment.

So much of seeing hyped-up museum exhibits today seems to be about telling people you saw them, not learning from them.

Aside from doing the right thing by returning plundered goods to their original owners, Ms. Thompson’s suggestions of how best to honor ritual artifacts, by placing replicas in meaningful cultural and historical contexts, might just lower the hype and remind us to see, in quieter and richer ways, what she defines as a museum’s goal: “to educate us about other ways of being in the world.”

Cathy Bernard New York

Erin Thompson’s essay may leave readers with the impression that the Rubin Museum of Art’s decision to close our galleries and move to a decentralized museum model stems from issues relating to repatriation. Her assessment is wrong.

The Rubin vehemently opposes the trafficking of stolen items and has never knowingly acquired objects that were illicitly obtained. We’ve taken decisive action whenever wrongdoing was found — and will continue to do so. In fact, we hired a full-time staff member whose job is dedicated to the ongoing, proactive research of our collection.

We are not shying away from these issues — we are addressing them head on — and our new approach means refocusing our resources on bringing art to people where they are.

This global model will enable us to advance the appreciation of Himalayan art through an ambitious international program of partnerships and collaborations designed to share our collection in new ways, provide direct support to contemporary artists and researchers, and expand access to educational resources. We’re proud to share our work with a wider public than before — one that is local, national and international.

Jorrit Britschgi New York The writer is the executive director of the Rubin Museum.

On a recent trip to Japan, my wife and I visited the Tokyo National Museum. Many of the artifacts there were high-quality reproductions. We saw this display strategy in many museums and historic sites in Japan.

We did not feel cheated, because these artifacts were meant to convey a better understanding of the culture they represented. The artifacts were accompanied by excellent interpretive information that described their creation and context, as well as graphics including photos of the original pieces the reproductions represented.

Before closing galleries and museums, our institutions would do well to adopt this alternative strategy.

Paul Aldretti Denver

Re “ Democrats Want Biden to Shine Brighter Light on His Climate Achievements ” (news article, Jan. 28):

President Biden has prioritized and delivered transformational climate progress and jump-started our transition to a more equitable and just clean energy future since Day 1 of his administration. From the biggest investment our country has ever made in climate solutions through the Inflation Reduction Act, to strong international leadership on the world stage, to transitioning away from dirty and dangerous fossil fuels, Mr. Biden has done more on climate than any president in history.

We are confident that we will hear him make that case vigorously in the months ahead and believe that he will continue to highlight the many benefits of acting on the climate crisis, including reducing energy costs and saving people money; creating well-paying, family-sustaining jobs; and protecting the planet now and for future generations.

Elections are about choices, and the contrast in the upcoming presidential election could not be more stark, nor the choice more clear. While President Biden is a true climate champion, Donald Trump was the most anti-environment president ever, and by far.

The League of Conservation Voters applauds Mr. Biden for his stellar climate leadership to date, is looking forward to more climate progress through executive action in his first term, and is all-in to help re-elect him so he can finish the job in a second term.

Tiernan Sittenfeld Washington The writer is senior vice president, government affairs, for the League of Conservation Voters.

In “ Running for President Is Not a Hobby ” (column, Feb. 1), Gail Collins writes that it’s “worrisome” that the presence of independent presidential candidates could “screw up the outcome” of a Trump-Biden presidential contest.

Ms. Collins advises that if any independents want to use the presidential election to elevate ideas they care about, they should “leave this to the primaries.”

But America’s major-party primaries are low turnout affairs that don’t reflect the priorities of most American voters and often prevent independents from participating entirely. In 2024, the primaries are on track to produce some of the most unpopular major-party presidential candidates since the advent of modern polling, and both parties have gone to extreme lengths to prevent real competition from emerging.

The Democratic Party has ensured that primary competitors, like Representative Dean Phillips, aren’t even allowed on many state primary voting ballots . Meanwhile the Republican National Committee was just c onsidering a resolution to name Donald Trump the party’s presumptive nominee after the New Hampshire primary before ultimately backpedaling.

The ongoing effort to disenfranchise groups or candidates challenging the entrenched powers in both parties is rooted in contempt for voters — 64 percent of whom want another choice in 2024 beyond what the major parties seem poised to offer. No Labels has been working for two years to secure ballot access for 2024 to ensure that American voters have this choice.

Ms. Collins and other critics should spend less time dismissing independent voices and more time exploring why voters are so hungry to hear them in the first place.

Ryan Clancy Brooklyn The writer is chief strategist for No Labels.

Re “ Why the Requirement for SAT or ACT Scores Returned to Dartmouth ,” by David Leonhardt (The Morning, Feb. 6):

Mr. Leonhardt reports that the SAT is gaining a rebirth at various colleges. Research has shown over decades that those who are tutored in preparation for the SAT will do significantly better than those who aren’t tutored. This then translates to the notion that SAT results are clearly related to family support and finances.

There is a simple solution to reduce this discrepancy: SAT tutoring should be provided without cost after school hours by the school districts to students who wish to participate. This would minimize the issue of financial advantages and help level the playing field.

Alfred Posamentier River Vale, N.J. The writer is professor emeritus of mathematics education and a former dean at the City College of New York, CUNY.

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Duke University

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

university of michigan artifact essay

2 University of Michigan Essay Examples

The University of Michigan is an outstanding research institution, known for its school spirit and large alumni base. Based in the picturesque city of Ann Arbor, students at UMich are surrounded by city culture, urban nature trails, as well as outstanding students and professors. UMich is a “most selective” school, so you’ll need strong essays to help your application stand out from tens of thousands of applicants. 

In this post we will share two essays real students submitted to the University of Michigan. We will also walk through what each essay did well and where they could be improved to give you inspiration for your essays.

Please note: Looking at examples of real essays students have submitted to colleges can be very beneficial to get inspiration for your essays. You should never copy or plagiarize from these examples when writing your own essays. Colleges can tell when an essay isn’t genuine and will not view students favorably if they plagiarized. 

Read our University of Michigan essay breakdown to get a comprehensive overview of this year’s supplemental prompts. 

University of Michigan Essay Example #1

Prompt:   Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it. (300 words)

This summer I coached my first junior basketball team in two years, the Thunderdragons. From the beginning, this team of “misfits” was different from any I’d coached before. We were the only rookie team in the league and most of our players had no sports experience, while our opponents had spent years building chemistry together. 

The beginning of the season was a disaster. At practice, whenever I demanded attention and tried to demonstrate drills, the kids were unfocused and didn’t show interest in the sport. Unsurprisingly, our games went much like practices, with opponents often defeating us by over 20 points. This pattern continued for weeks. I felt I wasn’t doing my job correctly, and began to lose confidence in my own coaching abilities. 

Out of desperation, I finally voiced my frustrations to the team. Heart-to-heart, I asked them why they weren’t respecting me as a coach, and more importantly, never putting in 100% effort. Fortunately, they empathized with my reasoning and from then on, effort and attentiveness were never a problem. Our season culminated in a playoff game, playing a team featuring older, experienced players. We fought hard, bringing the game down to the wire, making me the proudest coach even in the face of defeat. 

Though our season ended that day, I experienced one of the most gratifying feelings I’d had in high school. Not only could I visibly see the growth in all my kids’ basketball talent, ability, and maturity, but every single parent personally thanked me for coaching their kids and more importantly, instilling a love for the game and team sports in general. I’d formed a community myself, one that consisted of my new little brothers who viewed me as a role model, and one I hope to lead to the championship next season.

What the Essay Did Well

This essay has a very solid story that is a great response to the prompt. The reader can very clearly see the community this student was a part of (junior basketball) and the role they played within it (coach). Not only that, we get a sense of the type of leader this student was and their passion for teaching and the sport. 

There is a very simple, yet effective structure to this essay that makes it extremely easy to follow—albeit a bit predictable. The student gives us an overview of the team in the beginning, explains the challenge they experienced, how they overcame the obstacle, and then they end with a reflection. While this isn’t necessarily a creative or exciting structure, it allows the student to share their story in a clear fashion.

Another positive aspect of this essay is the community this student chose: coaching a basketball team. Many students feel trapped when they encounter a community prompt if they don’t have a unique cultural background, but this essay is a perfect example of how you can write about anything! As long as you explain the essence of your community and its meaning to you, admissions officers will be happy to hear about any group you are part of. 

What Could Be Improved

This essay is a good foundation, but it could be strengthened with a more sophisticated structure and by showing, not telling. In terms of the structure, rather than following a traditional story arc, this student could have started the essay with the playoff game at the end of the season and then once they hooked the reader, they could have gone back and explained how far the team had come. Or they could have used a vignette structure to show the growth from practice to practice, game to game.

As for showing and not telling, there are many sentences in this essay that could be far more engaging and descriptive.

For example, “ At practice, whenever I demanded attention and tried to demonstrate drills, the kids were unfocused and didn’t show interest in the sport,”  could be “ ‘Circle up!’ Impatiently dribbling the ball waiting to demonstrate a three-pointer, I watched as 15 boys casually sauntered over, too engrained in an Iron Man vs Hulk debate.”

Another example would be switching “ We fought hard, bringing the game down to the wire, making me the proudest coach even in the face of defeat,”  to something like, “ 36 to 33! I couldn’t help the smile that spread across my face as we took the lead in the final minutes. The squeaking of the court as they pivoted to throw the ball to each other was music to my ears.”

University of Michigan Essay Example #2

Prompt: Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (550 words)

An aspiring trilingual clinical psychologist, I am drawn to the University of Michigan’s College of Literature, Science, and the Arts because it’s loaded with opportunities to build me into a scholar with a heart for service.

As a Psychology major and Spanish minor, I will satisfy my pursuit of academic excellence with LSA’s inexhaustible course offerings. Curious how songwriting helps me remember difficult words, I’ll find the answer from Psych 211-002: Mind, Music, and Community. As I learn what music does to the human mind through this exciting experiential course, I hope simultaneously to brighten the day of local seniors and children by playing the flute for them. While I will continue to explore indigenous cultures through the mythology my Latinx friends tell me outside of class, I look forward to examining these communities from an academic standpoint through Spanish 472 – Indigenous Societies. The combination of oral traditions and classical texts will deepen my knowledge of, and appreciation for, Latin American countries’ indigenous roots. Because of the variety of offerings LSA provides, I’ll get to zoom in on my specific topics of interest in psychology and Hispanic cultures. 

An advocate for pursuing academic excellence, not perfectionism, I hope to join the Chang Lab to investigate how race and culture give rise to perfectionism, applying my knowledge in Psychology to advance the science of well-being. With our common ethnic background, I’m especially intrigued by Dr. Chang’s studies regarding the Asian community. After gaining more research experience, I will write an honors thesis with Professor Nestor Lopez-Duran to research mental illness treatment. I want to develop a new form of psychotherapy combining ASMR and talk therapy, and I hope that our research contributes to this cause. 

Joining the Residential College will be the cherry atop my LSA sundae. Beyond the courses, alumni network, and research opportunities, I’ll get to share my opinions and consider others’ in small classrooms. I can’t wait to take the residential college writing seminar Psychology of Creativity and join the language lunch table to practice speaking Spanish outside the classroom. As someone who sought out native speakers to talk incessantly in Spanish about mythology, I hope to find other Spanish lovers at RC with whom I can practice my language skills. I will also participate in the Multicultural Psychology in Argentina program, traveling to Buenos Aires to learn the Argentine perspective on mental health. This cross-cultural exchange is crucial in helping me build an empathetic mindset as a clinical psychologist, arming me with tools to help people of different cultural backgrounds.

This student has clearly done their research on UMich! They come across as focused, dedicated, and passionate because of the details they include across multiple disciplines and opportunities. However, despite including many UMich resources, it doesn’t come across as name-dropping because the student elaborated on each point.

Telling the reader things like, “ The combination of oral traditions and classical texts will deepen my knowledge of, and appreciation for, Latin American countries’ indigenous roots,”  and “ I want to develop a new form of psychotherapy combining ASMR and talk therapy, and I hope that our research contributes to this cause, ” helps us appreciate what this student values and hopes to accomplish with a UMich education.

Ultimately, this essay gives a very strong impression of the reader. Right from the first sentence, they refer to themselves as “ An aspiring trilingual clinical psychologist,” and every subsequent idea builds on that. Whether they are discussing psychology, Spanish, or their Asian heritage, we walk away from the essay knowing that all three of these are important to this student’s identity, making them much more memorable.

While this essay shows a high level of research and interest in the school, it would benefit from more of a focus on the student—after all the point of your essay is to convince UMich to admit you . In the ideal essay, descriptions of UMich programs and self-descriptions should weave together to form a seamless trajectory. If this student were to rework their essay, they could organize their paragraphs according to their values or interests, rather than organizing them by the type of UMich program that they are discussing (i.e. coursework, research, extracurriculars). 

  • Paragraph 1: What the student values about Psychology and how UMich courses and the honors thesis program can support those values
  • Paragraph 2: Why the student believes Psychology must be supplemented by studies of race, ethnicity, and culture and how UMich’s Spanish programs and Chang lab would advance that belief
  • Paragraph 3: How the student thinks it is important to simultaneously use the academic setting and social/residential setting to advance their interests and goals (still regarding the interactions between psychology and culture!) and how a Residential College would accomplish this

These paragraphs would help the UMich facts to make more sense and feel less random (because readers would know why they matter to the writer), while also giving the writer more depth

Where to Get Your University of Michigan Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your University of Michigan essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

university of michigan artifact essay

26 University of Michigan Supplemental Essay Examples (2023)

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor Essay Examples

To get into the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor in 2023, you have to write strong supplemental essays.

In this article, I've gathered 26 of the best supplemental and Common App essay examples for Michigan.

University of Michigan Admissions FAQ

Here are some answers to common questions regarding applying to UMich.

As one of the highest ranked public universities in the U.S., Michigan has a reputation that makes for a competitive admissions process.

University of Michigan's Acceptance Rate

This past year, a record 79,743 students applied to Michigan and only 16,071 were offered admission.

That gives Michigan an overall admit rate of just 20.15% for the Class of 2026.

University of Michigan Acceptance Scattergram

Here's a scattergram that shows admitted and rejected applicants for Michigan in recent years.

In order to stand out from other applicants, you'll need to write your best supplemental essays. Here you can find 26 examples of Michigan essays that worked.

Since many of Michigan's prompts have stayed the same year after year, these examples answer this year's prompts.

What is Michigan's application deadline for this year?

The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor offers two admissions deadlines for Fall 2023: early action and regular decision.

For this year, Michigan's deadlines are:

  • Early Action (EA): November 1st, 2022
  • Regular Decision (RD): February 1st, 2023

Some students like transfer students may apply in Winter 2023 or Summer 2023, for which there are two deadlines:

  • Winter 2023 RD: October 1st, 2022
  • Summer 2023 RD: February 1st, 2023

What are the University of Michigan supplemental prompts for 2022-23?

This year, the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor requires applicants to write two supplemental essays. The first essay is limited to 300 words while the second essay is longer, with a maximum of 550 words.

The Michigan supplemental prompts are:

1. Community Essay (Required for all applicants.)

Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it. (100-300 words)

2. Why Michigan Essay (Required for all applicants.)

Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (100-550 words)

26 University of Michigan, Ann Arbor EssaysThatWorked

Check out these 26 Michigan essays that worked.

Below you can read example supplemental essays for Michigan, as well as Common App essays from admitted students.

Get inspired and start writing your own successful Michigan essays.

Prompt: Communities and Groups

  • 1. Christian Faith
  • 2. Horseback Riding
  • 3. Youth Court
  • 4. Two Sides
  • 5. Marching Band Family
  • 6. Chinese Christian Church
  • 7. Whitman Navigators
  • 8. Diverse Community
  • 9. The Nabe

Prompt: Area of Study / Why Michigan?

  • 10. Education Program
  • 11. Business Opportunities
  • 12. Engineering at Michigan
  • 13. Economics and Political Science
  • 14. Michigan Faculty
  • 15. Interdisciplinary Learning
  • 16. Michigan Opportunities
  • 17. School of Kinesiology

Prompt: Extracurricular Activity

  • 18. Summer in the City
  • 19. Riding Horses
  • 20. Restorative Justice
  • 23. Speech and Debate
  • 25. Soccer Lessons
  • 26. Playing Horn

1. Michigan Community Essay: "Christian Faith"

Prompt: Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it. (100-300 words)

I am a member of the Grosse Pointe chapter of YoungLife, a non-denominational Christian youth group. However, I wouldn't necessarily consider myself a "Christian."

My relationship with God is exactly that—mine. I sometimes question certain Christian teachings and beliefs, and I'm not 100 percent sure that I am officially any one religion.

This is not only OK, but encouraged at YoungLife; the motto of the organization is "Come as you are." The differences between myself and the person sitting next to me at Sunday Club don't matter there.

Our diverging ideas and opinions, some of which may be about religion itself, become white noise as we sing along with the leaders to start each Club at the YoungLife House. My understanding of Christianity can be polar opposite of that person—my friend—next to me, but we are connected in the Club's universal idea of being yourself and accepting others for doing the same.

I am still figuring out my individual ideologies, and I expect it to take time before I fully understand my feelings. My views may will fall within those of a Christian church, they partially could, or they might not at all. I haven't solved my religious puzzle yet, but I don't feel like an outsider because of it. The people at YoungLife respect my internal journey. They understand that I don't fully understand my religion yet.

2. Michigan Community Essay: "Horseback Riding"

As the first horse walked in for the HJAM hunter derby in May, I sat on the grassy hill overlooking the show grounds with my friends and the “big girls” for the first time. In just a few years, I would be one of the “big girls” that the younger kids would look up to. Brought together by long horse show days highlighted by donkey races in Kentucky, boat days in Traverse City, and “Ride and Drives” in Ohio, the group of riders that compete at the horse shows have become my friends for life.

Starting in the early 2010’s, when all of us rode ponies, everyone began to come out of their shell as we bonded over our love for this sport. Jumping the “kid jumps” until it was too dark, our group became inseparable, and Sundays, the last day of a horse show, became increasingly dreaded as it meant we had to say goodbye until the next show.

Trading in ponies for horses and bows for hair nets, we became engaged in much more mature activities- like water fights and golf cart races. Beginning to conquer bigger divisions and national finals, riding became more serious, however, being surrounded by this community kept it light hearted as we cheered each other on ringside.

Entering into my final junior year as a rider, I have trouble believing that I have become one of the “big girls” as it seems just yesterday I gazed up at my mentors on the hill almost a decade ago. Knowing that the friendships I have made will last a lifetime, I am forever grateful to the early mornings and long nights that brought us together and cannot wait to watch where each of us end up: both inside and outside of the ring.

3. Michigan Community Essay: "Youth Court"

A defining factor of my interests and character is membership to Ontario County Youth Court. Not only have I enjoyed the career exploration, new opportunities, and service aspects of the program, but also the people within it. Youth court provides as alternative path legal path for youth offenders. But also serves the community of members who conduct the trials. This has allowed me to gain an understanding of other people’s situations and circumstances.

After four years of dedicated membership, I have assumed leadership positions within the program. This includes acting as lead prosecutor, along with the elected chair of the Ontario County Youth Court Steering Committee. As chair, I have planned successful member outreach events such as a Halloween party and a career exploration event. By acting as a mentor and providing guidance towards my fellow members, I have encouraged others to develop a passion for youth court and law. Without this community, I would have never discovered my true passion for law, or broadened my understanding of others.

Learn the secrets of successful top-20 college essays

Join 4,000+ students and parents that already receive our 5-minute free newsletter , packed with top-20 essay examples, writing tips & tricks, and step-by-step guides.

Students

4. Michigan Community Essay: "Two Sides"

I grew up with big glass doors in my living room, bold doors that opened to a garden on one side and a living room on the other. When you walked outside, you entered an untamed mosaic of bamboo, peonies, lavender, hummingbirds, bees and the occasional free-spirited cat. Grey stepping stones guided you through the mystical garden in a seemingly random fashion. The other side of the doors open up to a different type of community, a community where shoes and dirt weren’t allowed, corners were sharp, and the main odor was all-purpose cleaning spray.

These two worlds were separated by a mere panel of transparent doors. I believe that I am the product of both of them. These two spaces, along with my mother, formed the person that I am today. From the garden community, I learned to be pure and kind, while the indoor community warned me to also stay guarded. I’m reserved, but with a touch of confidence; forgiving but not ignorant; and perseverent yet flexible.

Things used to seem binary; I was either the garden or the room. However, I now believe that I am the living, breathing evidence that maybe life isn’t so one-sided. Maybe some us will realize that one side calls to us, while others will become the glass doors and, instead of standing on either side, experience multiple worlds.

5. Michigan Community Essay: "Marching Band Family"

As I prepared for my freshman year of high school, I was terrified I would never find my place at Grosse Pointe South. But when I started my first marching band camp a month before school began, I found the friends that would form my tightest-knit community for the next four years.

No matter how busy my schedule has become, the six hours I spend each week at marching band have remained a constant throughout high school. These friends have been the most unfailingly kind people I have met at South, and have provided me a place where I feel confident presenting myself authentically to the people around me.

As a section leader this year, I have gained experience as a supporter and motivator. My goal has been to help the underclassmen find the same community in marching band that I did.

This role has taught me a lot about collaboration. My fellow section leaders and I have shared responsibility for the quality of every performance we give and held meetings to discuss ways to improve rehearsal productivity. It has been incredible to see our hard work result in such enjoyable performances for our school and surrounding community.

The Grosse Pointe South Marching Band has become my second family throughout the last four years. I am incredibly grateful for the friends I will miss so much next year, and for the opportunity to provide underclassmen with the same kind and accepting environment that I was welcomed into four years ago.

6. Michigan Community Essay: "Chinese Christian Church"

As you walk onto my church grounds, you would be a little befuddled. What used to be a small one-story home now houses the Chinese Christian Church of Columbia--the former garage/carport is now the sanctuary, the swimming pool has been replaced with the education building, and the old house is now the kitchen and fellowship building. But the most glaring aspect is the separate services, divided by language not time. Our church walks between traditional Chinese culture and contemporary American beliefs. Many of the ABCs (American-born Chinese) and the few Americans join together for the English service, centered around more contemporary worship and disciple-building. The older immigrant population and the Chinese students from the surrounding universities gather for the Chinese service, featuring more conservative worship with hymns and focused on outreach.

Though we are divided by language and cultural barriers, we are joined together with a shared faith. While I call the English congregation home, I occasionally serve on the worship team for the Chinese service and as an interpreter for joint adult and youth events (when the Chinese and English service join together). While I serve in both congregations, my main focus is the children’s ministry where I am a Sunday school teacher and an activities coordinator. Every week, I love walking into the classroom, seeing the happy faces of curious children ready to learn new Bible stories despite their occasional rowdy and disobedient behavior. While the students learn, I share the same search for answers in my faith. With my church being a melting pot of cultures and language, we work to push aside those barriers to be joined together under one faith. Despite the challenges, the tight-knit community that has sprung up from our tiny house church has won my heart.

7. Michigan Community Essay: "Whitman Navigators"

I quit keeping track of how many times I've said "Hi, welcome to Whitman!" after my first Back-to-School-Night. As a member of the Whitman Navigator team for three years, I've greeted a few hundred parents, oriented three classes of freshmen, and built lasting friendships with fellow Navigators and staff. Navigators are Whitman students who lead Freshman Orientation and Back-to-School-Night, as well as give tours to transfer students.

In this capacity, I've worked with our two principals, Dr. Goodwin (now retired) and Dr. Dodd, on building a more welcoming Whitman. The community I love best is that of my high school, Walt Whitman. My place is similar to that of a Walmart Greeter, in that I am the first person freshmen see when they enter the front door. Using my school spirit and three years' experience, I enthusiastically guide these freshmen through their first encounter with this large, and often intimidating, new community.

Last year, I received my first question that I couldn't answer. As a chorus student, my knowledge of the Fine Arts at Whitman is limited; when a freshman asked me about ceramics courses, I paused and pondered. Rather than providing her with false information, I said, "I actually couldn't tell you.

At the end of orientation, I'll refer you to Gianni, a Navigator who took ceramics last year." The closeness of the Navigator community meant that I knew the right person to answer her question. Here I was, answering the freshman's question in a position of authority, when only four years ago I was in her shoes. Navigators granted me the opportunity to help others acclimate to the school, and I developed leadership traits through which I could guide people successfully.

8. Michigan Community Essay: "Diverse Community"

In my hometown, you can hear the cows moo and the tractors hum. The smell of manure might only be overtaken by the fumes of a Ford F-150. Farms line the sides of the roads I take to school. I have lived in rural Carroll County, Maryland my whole life. I have grown to love it. The people are friendly, neighborhoods are safe, and schools are good. However, there is one main issue. Everyone here is white.

While visiting the University of Michigan, I noticed the treelined campus. I pictured myself meeting peers in the dorms and classrooms. I was overwhelmed when I stepped into the Big House. But the thing that stood out the most was the diversity of Ann Arbor. Being in a place where a variety of ethnicities is so prevalent was a wake-up call to what I have been missing my whole life.

The diverse community of the University of Michigan is a place where I could see myself thrive. Being around and learning from people with unique backgrounds has been a rare commodity in my life. Around the age of thirteen, I realized what I had been missing within Carroll County, so I joined a soccer team in a more diverse neighboring county. This team gave me a taste of what life is like away from my rural hometown.

In college I want to belong to a society of people all different from each other. I would be able to learn so many valuable life lessons. University of Michigan is a place where I could share my story, as well as take in the stories of many different people. In college, I want to join a community filled with variety and open mindedness, rather than remaining in my ethnically homogenous past.

9. Michigan Community Essay: "The Nabe"

The bus took ten minutes to get home this time, not the usual thirty. This wasn’t my home, but it would essentially become just that.

The Morristown Neighborhood House is a center that provides a free and safe after-school environment for local children. While I had previously participated in various service programs, something was different about NH. Whether it was teaching long division or playing a game of chess, the bonds I established with the kids were real, human connections.

It was a privilege to be appointed service coordinator at the end of my junior year. But, I wanted to further immerse myself into “the Nabe.” While there were various summer options, I felt that there couldn’t be a better choice than signing up to be a camp counselor at the Nabe.

The kids became family; through sarcophagus art projects, writing practice, Xbox tournaments, implicit bias discussions, and trips to the park, they became the little siblings I never had. When I brought in ice cream for all of them on my birthday, I was showered with hugs. No foreign exchange trip could outdo that.

I am a member of many communities based on my geography, ethnicity, interests, and talents, but the most meaningful community is the one that I never thought I would be a part of. Bryan, Genesis, Justin, John, Christian, Jason, Jazarah, Jaeden, Steven, Angelique, Isabella... and Yajur.

On that first bus ride to the Nabe, I never saw it coming.

10. Why Michigan: "Education Program"

Prompt: Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (100-550 words)

Growing up, I always pictured myself as a great teacher as an adult. With the second best secondary education program in the country and an emphasis on the liberal arts and undergraduate education, I am confident that U-M will shape me into the great educator I’ve dreamed of becoming since I was a kid.

Hallmarks of a liberal arts education include teamwork, problem-solving, clear writing, and effective communication. These are also skills that any exceptional teacher needs. U-M offers an unparalleled curriculum that prepares students to successfully run classrooms and obtain Provisional Teacher Certifications upon graduation, exposing students to diverse classes and people in Ann Arbor, and providing them with an invaluable liberal arts education along the way.

Being an effective teacher means connecting with and stimulating all students at its core. The liberal arts foundation I will receive in the College of Literature, Sciences, and the Arts (LSA), married with the experiential education and training the School of Education (SoE) will provide, will mold me into that great teacher—a mentor and role model for any student, regardless of creed—I’ve always aspired to become.

The Teacher Education Preferred Admission (TEPA) for incoming freshmen piqued my interest because the program is the crossroad between the liberal arts and teacher education; two components I was looking for in a college. TEPA will allow me to build a strong liberal arts base in LSA my first two years on campus before entering SoE, while also gaining beneficial experiences in the education field early on.

The education-oriented programs WE READ and Students Empowering Education specifically appealed to me because they will bridge my liberal arts education with my anticipated career as a high school English teacher. Similarly, my Spanish classes will have a practical application in the Ann Arbor Language Partnership, a program that immediately interested me as a potential Spanish minor.

During my first two years as a pre-admit, I'll be supported by my TEPA peers and staff, specifically from my SoE personal adviser. TEPA will take the large campus and make it feel smaller, allowing me to form organic connections with like-minded people and groups that can cultivate my interest in education before entering SoE junior year.

I need a meaningful education to be a meaningful educator. Truthfully, I could go to almost any college to become a teacher, but only schools that synthesize in- and out-of-classroom learning like SoE produce great ones. U-M ranking sixth in the country for undergraduate teaching bolstered my interest in the university and confirmed what I already knew: I will receive an education in LSA and SoE that will change who I am as a person and not just a student, and prepare me to provide the same for others as a teacher.

The great educator I’ve always envisioned myself becoming is one that can inspire without bounds. From my time as a student, I’ve come to realize that a truly influential teacher can work with students who have little in common with themselves and still be impactful. LSA's purposeful and broad curriculum, paired with SoE's hands-on courses and fieldwork, and the additional opportunities available through TEPA, will shape me into that life-changing teacher, for any student who walks through my classroom door.

11. Why Michigan: "Business Opportunities"

Growing up in a community that bleeds maize and blue, the community represented by the University of Michigan has always been one that I could see myself representing as both a student and alumni. From football games at the big house to classes at Ross, each and every opportunity available at U of M represents a piece of my life that I hope to continue to incorporate into my life for the rest of my life.

The opportunity to take courses that allow for enriched experiences in developing a real business is one that I intend to be involved in as soon as possible. I will use this type of class as a way to test my skills and learn where I need to become stronger as a leader and student. Watching others equally driven as me, their tactics that are successful and not successful will imprint on how I attack problems in the future and shape my overall leadership style.

By being involved in the Multidisciplinary Action Projects down the road as a graduate student, I hope to learn firsthand what it takes to run and be involved with real businesses. Firsthand exposure is the best way to learn how to solve problems- especially surrounded by peers who are equally as driven and dedicated as I am.

Filled with students striving for nothing but the best they are capable of is a community that I am certain I will enrich and fit into. By sharing ideas and collaborating together instead of against each other, each and every one of us will contribute to the business world as leaders and innovators.

The University of Michigan is a place I can see myself learning and growing as a leader for the next four years as I intend to use all of the tools at my disposal to become a top business person. The opportunities within the school I will be involved in and the peers that I will work beside only enrich the values of what being a Wolverine mean to me.

12. Why Michigan: "Engineering at Michigan"

The University of Michigan’s College of Engineering has a proactive approach to career path discovery and job search. While I do hope to aspire to a corporate attorney, an engineering degree from the University of Michigan would provide me the advantage of readiness.

U.S News and World Report published an article about challenges law school applicants with STEM degrees face. Number one was the lack of research skills. Michigan Undergraduate Engineering has research opportunities for all undergraduate students. I hope to even take advantage of The College of Engineering (CoE) International Internship Program. The chance to see the world and contribute to the world-class studies conducted by Michigan Engineering students is a unique quality. The article also reported that STEM applicants often lack job experience. Michigan Engineering hosts internship fairs, which even freshman can participate in. By utilizing the opportunity to work in a professional setting, I will be more adapt to presenting myself in a mature and respectable manor in a corporate setting.

Many people are puzzled by my aspirations to become a corporate lawyer with an engineering degree. While I enjoy learning about many areas of study, math and science have always peaked my interest. Like my attraction to law, I am drawn to the definitiveness of engineering specifically. While there is a right and wrong in methods and procedures, there is a chance to be creative; for the end goal is functionality. Law requires critical thinking, problem solving, and the questioning of presented facts and figures. These skills are also encompassed in Michigan Engineering. With a technical understanding of industry and engineering, I will be able to more accurately represent a corporation. Like the professors at Michigan Engineering, I hope to be an expert in my field. At Michigan Engineering, I will be educated by the best of the best. Professors that have been exposed to their fields in every aspect; allowing them to provide the best guidance to students. Instead of just presenting facts and figures in a courtroom, I will be able to understand and explain them.

13. Why Michigan: "Economics and Political Science"

In my junior year microeconomics class, my teacher extensively explored the ways in which people from different socioeconomic classes were affected by our economic system. I was frustrated by the ways our country forces those living in poverty to spend the little money they have on taxable goods. I began to empathize with them. How can people pull themselves out of poverty if their government seems to be working against them? More than anything, I was frustrated that I felt powerless to help them in any way.

Those lessons inspired and motivated me. I had always looked at economics as nothing more than an analysis of business models and resource allocation. I began to see it as a way to fix fundamental problems in our society, from examining the effects of healthcare expansion on crime and poverty rates to studying how shifts in our political climate affect how our country’s financial process will change. I now see economics as a way to help those in need in my country and throughout the world.

I volunteered after school for Representative Dingell and had the opportunity to attend numerous events hosted by the Ford School. Again and again, I was impressed by the extent of the Ford School’s student involvement in critical issues. Through my work with the Congresswoman, I was able to gain a greater understanding of how different groups of people were affected by shifts in political and economic priorities. My goal is to become a civil rights attorney or study economics as a way to promote sustainable growth in developing nations.

I want to begin my studies at the University of Michigan in LSA to gain a foundation in economics and political science-related courses. After my first year, I hope to gain admission to the Ford School. The connections that LSA and Ford have to Poverty Solutions solidified by interest in the University of Michigan. If I attended these schools as an undergraduate student, I would be able to assist with research on the causes and ramifications of poverty. Professor Michael Barr’s research on policy initiatives and our financial system is fascinating from the perspective of a prospective economics major. At the University of Michigan, I would be able to join teams of renowned researchers working toward the betterment of our society and our world.

The range of schools working in connection with Poverty Solutions is evidence of the University’s devotion to civic engagement. I would be able to participate in groundbreaking research regarding issues I am interested in; I would have the ability to study poverty and ways to stunt or alleviate its effects in other countries. As someone hoping to pursue a career in public service, it is truly incredible to have the opportunity to join a research community specifically geared toward solving problems I am passionate about solving.

I want to join the University of Michigan’s legacy of innovators. I want to be part of the LSA community, studying economics and political science. I want to attend the Ford School and understand how policy in America and abroad has an effect on global poverty. I want to be involved with the Poverty Solutions Initiative, conducting groundbreaking research on the ways we can reform our financial system to better serve the lower and middle classes.

14. Why Michigan: "Michigan Faculty"

Riding the elevator to the seventh floor of Haven Hall, my heart was practically leaping out of my chest. I was meeting with Dr. Jenna Bednar of the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts Department of Political Science, and as I recalled her credentials- B.A. in Political Science from Michigan, M.A. and PhD in Political Science from Stanford- I felt increasingly out of place. As a junior in high school with limited political experience, I am grateful that she agreed to take time out of her day to meet with me and answer my numerous questions about LSA, Michigan, and political theory.

Upon entering her office, my eyes were drawn to bookshelves full of political literature, from the classics like De Tocqueville and Locke (which I read in a summer college program in 2017), to her own recently published work, The Robust Federation. Encouraged by her broad smile and having just completed an official campus tour, I launched into my questions. Dr. Bednar described the connections she and her students have made at Michigan, through LSA and in general.

This revealed to me that the faculty would take a personal interest in my academic career. We discussed the average class size in LSA and the Department of Political Science, her academic background, and how to survive Michigan winters. Dr. Bednar then brought my attention to the benefits that LSA Political Science gives its students.

For example, as head of the Michigan in Washington program, Dr. Bednar's passion for both political science and education was evident as she introduced me to one of Michigan's most influential academic programs. Although I hail from two miles outside the D.C. border, I aspire to participate in the Michigan in Washington program, to build on my internship of the past year with my delegate to the Maryland General Assembly.

Under his guidance, I conducted nationwide policy research, attended civic association meetings and development forums, and traveled to our state capitol to watch the legislative process unfold. Consequently, an internship at the federal level is my logical next step toward building the foundations of a political career.

Dr. Bednar, upon hearing about my internship with my delegate, suggested that I think about the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program. I believe that this research program offers a unique means of building my understanding of political science. I am eager to apply to the UROP program in hopes of furthering my research skills within the complex political landscape of today. Furthermore, the variety of courses that I can explore as a political science major is remarkable: from "Sports, Politics, and Society", to "Nations and Nationalism," the scope of topics will keep me engaged.

When I sat down with Dr. Bednar, I expected a five-minute chat; I received forty-five minutes of helpful advice, political theorizing, and well wishes. Leaving her office, I felt energized and ready to dive into LSA Political Science right there. Her demeanor helped to build my confidence to boldly seek connections in my search for knowledge. I saw the Michigan difference firsthand, from various undergraduate opportunities for political science, to a universal love for the school from students and faculty alike.

15. Why Michigan: "Interdisciplinary Learning"

My favorite class in high school was also my hardest. It was World Culture/World Literature, an hour and a half each day of seeing history, art, and literature not as separate entities but as intricately connected, one incomplete without the other. I learned to see humanism in Greek sculpture, religious propaganda in the chiaroscuro of Baroque paintings, disillusionment in modern art. Although seemingly unrelated to my STEM-leaning interests, the analytical skills I learned there would prove invaluable in neuroscience research. Connecting electroencephalography results to mechanisms for chronic pain relief wasn’t all too different from drawing links between historical movements and paintings; both required an intimate knowledge of background information and a willingness to take risks, to see new relationships and forge unprecedented connections.

LSA embodies precisely this mentality, fostering interdisciplinary learning and problem-solving. With classes like “Health, Biology, and Society: What is Cancer?”, bridging humanistic and biological approaches to disease, and graduation requirements ranging from Natural Sciences to Race and Ethnicity, LSA prepares students for the real world, where problems necessitate not just single-minded expertise but also a diverse understanding of other factors involved. My internship experience only confirmed the practicality of this perspective; we used mindfulness meditation alongside spinal cord stimulation technologies to treat chronic pain.

This mindset is not confined to learning inside the classroom. The LSA Opportunity Hub is robust, connecting students to internships at Nike, Forbes, and the US Department of Education, among other places. To intern as a research assistant at Mayo Clinic, to use mathematical models to predict brain tumor growth like current Michigan junior Tatum Doyle would be an unequalled opportunity. Her work in incorporating mathematical concepts in medical research personifies the LSA culture, where problems are best solved holistically. LSA’s interdisciplinary approach does not detract from fostering specialization and excellence in specific fields, but adds; its Biochemistry program promotes innovation and independence in its students and is ranked top in the nation.

I remember boiling down cabbage with my dad to make acid/base indicators. In elementary school, my teacher wrote that I had been spending too much time reading animal books and too little time playing with other kids. I loved (and still love) all things living, often marvelling at the complexity of the animal kingdom, the human body, the organs, and the cells that were the foundation for everything else. The first time I read about the process of translation, of rendering mRNA into proteins, my eyes filled with tears; this is what I wanted to do, to apply the chemistry that had defined my childhood to my love of biology.

LSA shares that passion, dedicating a plethora of resources, both intellectual and material, to its Biochemistry department. With equipment like atomic absorption spectrophotometers, classes in Endocrinology, and distinguished professors, the University of Michigan has everything any biochemistry undergraduate student would need, and much more. To research under a PI like Dr. Kopelman, winner of the J. William Fulbright Research Award, would be a dream fulfilled. His work in employing 5-dimensional chemical imaging to visualize and treat tumors does what LSA does best; it uses an interdisciplinary approach to make academic discoveries both relevant and essential in the real world. It is a culture I would be honored to take part in, should I be accepted.

16. Why Michigan: "Michigan Opportunities"

Sweat drips down my face onto homework in front of me.

I just got home from a soccer game; I’m not stressed. This is until I realize I still have a plethora of edits to make on my lab report as well as emails to write for an upcoming NHS event. AND I have three tests the next day.

Although stressful, I enjoy every minute of juggling a variety of academics and extracurriculars. I appreciate all the opportunities my high school offers to me and I take advantage of as many as I can handle. Thanks to my involved years of high school, I have received a great education as well as many experiences I would never trade away.

Entering my senior year and researching universities I may want to attend, there is one question which continuously presents itself. What do I want to major in when I get to college? It is a scary question and I have never known the answer. Despite participating in many extracurriculars such as National Honor Society, Science Olympiad, Math Honor Society, and Future Business Leaders of America, I still have no idea what I want to do with my life.

As a student at LSA, I would be able to use the abundance of resources to explore possibilities for life after college. Since I am one of the many college applicants who has not decided upon a major, a large, liberal arts college like LSA is the perfect place for me to discover more about myself, pursue interests, and find my purpose. I have considered medicine, business, economics, and law. The two courses I have enjoyed the most are biomedical sciences and US History. I am truly all over the map!

With so much variety at LSA, I would be able to change majors or take a diverse group of classes so that I could find what I want to study. LSA is unique from its University of Michigan counterparts because it offers a broader range of departments, majors, and courses. The flexibility at LSA would help me discover what I want my life to be like while supporting me through my journey.

Additionally, LSA provides students with multiple opportunities not found anywhere else at University of Michigan. One program that caught my eye was Michigan Learning Communities. This program appeals to me because having the resources of this large university, yet finding a niche in the community to challenge myself and others, can help me grow as a student and a person. Similarly, the Opportunity Hub at LSA jumped out at me as I researched the University and toured the school. I would take full advantage of the great connections the Opportunity Hub provides, as it could help me find an internship or job offer when the perfect time comes. MLCs, the Opportunity Hub, and the many other programs which LSA offers are the main reasons why LSA would be the best college fit for me.

I was initially drawn to the University of Michigan by the beautiful campus, great athletics programs, unmatched prestige, and massive alumni network. However, as I dove deeper, I discovered LSA, a school that can help me realize my purpose and passions while providing a focused learning environment to lead me to a bright future.

17. Why Michigan: "School of Kinesiology"

Throughout my college search, I had yet to come across the perfect undergraduate school for my interests. The safe pick was always the standard “College of Arts and Sciences” or its equivalent, with the most varied options for me to craft my experience. Something was different about Michigan. I didn’t need to craft my own academic experience at another university when the perfect one was already designed here: The School of Kinesiology’s Movement Science program.

In my house, we never eat scrambled eggs. We eat denatured albumin and yolk proteins served with a sprinkling of sodium chloride; cooking was chemistry, not just a chore. From a young age, my parents have cultivated a sense of curiosity in me. So when I injured my left wrist in the summer before freshman year, it was so much more than just an injury. I researched more into my growth plate dislocation and radial fracture. I got to see the details of the procedure, the recovery process, and the gradual reversion of my X-rays to a normal wrist image. This fascinating journey got me through an otherwise disappointing summer: no basketball and no french horn.

While the seeds were planted during my injury, they didn’t start blooming until I spent a week shadowing Dr. Kesavan Ramanujan in the Royal United Hospital, Bath, England. I realized that the field of orthopedics was a field where I could visually identify a problem, come up with a solution, implement the solution through operation, and help someone progress to full recovery. The gratification on the doctor’s faces when their recovered patients came back to visit them was infectious. While this trip was my first time staying abroad without my family, the biggest takeaway for me was that I had found a career I was truly interested in.

My volunteer work at the Robert Wood Johnson Hospital Physiotherapy Clinic has only strengthened this notion. While my work as a volunteer may be the more routine tasks: making schedules, doing paperwork, cleaning the beds and the gym, setting up hot packs, cold packs, and stimulation pads, I have learned so much about the subtle details of patient interaction through what I absorb from the physical therapists. Even if a PT is having a bad day, they have taught me how important it is to have a smile on your face for the next patient coming through the doors. They have also taught me how much of an intersection there is between teaching and medicine/therapy.

These experiences draw me to the School of Kinesiology, and specifically the Movement Science program. The opportunity to actively engage with skeletomuscular system studies as opposed to solely classroom learning appeals to me, as do the extensive research opportunities. The specialized IONM Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Program-- the only accredited IONM program in the world-- would give me the chance to engage in an exciting, interdisciplinary curriculum that cannot be found anywhere else.

From scrambled eggs to broken bones; from British adventures to lessons learned in the RWJ clinic. Discovering my passion for orthopedics and movement science has already been an exhilarating ride; yet, these have all been just the beginning steps of my journey. I cannot think of a better place to continue than the University of Michigan.

18. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "Summer in the City"

Prompt: If you could only do one of the activities you have listed in the Activities section of your Common Application, which one would you keep doing? Why? (150 words max)

I would chose to continue my involvement with Summer in the City, a nonprofit that empowers young citizens to revitalize Detroit through beautification and youth engagement, because I believe heavily in the power and potential of two things: Detroit and young people.

At SITC, I can see the difference I’m making through the murals I paint and the kids I play with. With each brush stroke, I am moving the city one step in a positive direction. And with each high five from my “buddy” at the camp, I feel like I am part of the grassroots, youth-driven movement the city needs.

19. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "Riding Horses"

For as long as I can remember, riding horses has played an integral part of my day to day life. It has taught me more than I could learn anywhere else and truly morphed my character forever. Riding has become a key part of my identity. Spending 30+ hours a week at the barn in addition to nearly 20 weekends of the year at horse shows, it has shown me the impact that long term effort has on success. This time commitment has also allowed me to make close friends that I hope to stay connected with for the rest of my lifetime. Riding has ultimately become more than a sport to me, but rather part of my life: a part of my life that I will treasure for as long as I am alive.

20. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "Restorative Justice"

With my aspirations to pursue a career in law, I would continue with youth court. Restorative justice is a concept that repairs damages and restores harmony. Instead of merely correcting illegal actions, an offender is integrated back into the community as a productive member of society. As a member, this is the greatest sense of satisfaction. Allowing someone the chance to change truly displays why I have remained devoted to the program for years.

At the University of Michigan, I would continue my restorative justice journey by involving myself in the Office of Student Conflict Resolution. I understand people have faults, which lead to disputes. With my vast experience with a variety of cases, I can assist others in making amends. Therefore, I am hopeful that I would be selected as a Student Resolution Panelist to be further educated on methods and approaches using restorative justice.

21. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "Nanny"

Working as a nanny has taught me much more than any club or organization could. Growing up with a single mom, I wasn’t always the primary focus: I had to learn how to take care of myself and carve my own path. Now, being a nanny enables me to be a role model and guide for kids whose parents might not have the time or ability to do so. And as the child of a working parent, I’m also aware of the constant stress parents are under.

Not only does being a nanny teach me how to handle the responsibilities of caring for a child, it also allows me to reminisce on my childhood. Whether I’m helping David with his Spanish homework, teaching Edward how to say hi, or finding Leprechaun footprints with William, I can feel the unique impact I’m making on their lives, an impact which is irreplaceable.

22. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "DECA"

Throughout middle school and my freshman year of high school, I was a mouse. I was terrified of making a spectacle of myself. The first time I walked into a DECA meeting -- one of only five girls in a group of 50, and the only freshman -- I nearly turned around and left.

Since that day, I have earned three medals and been named a state finalist. That mousey freshman would never believe I could receive statewide recognition for a competition that required me to communicate my ideas to strangers. Walking into my first meeting was a huge step outside my comfort zone. Since then, my experiences in competitions have given me a breakthrough in self-confidence, and for that I am especially grateful. Not only has DECA enhanced my high school career, but it has helped me learn to take pride in myself and my ideas.

23. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "Speech and Debate"

Since September of sophomore year, I have been attempting to persuade everyone and everything, from walls, to friends, to rearview mirrors, to agree with me. Through competitive topics in Speech & Debate, I'm learning how today’s issues affect American teens. From analyzing drug culture and its impact on youth, to assessing politics' role plays in dating, I'm granted the opportunity to broaden my perspective.

In the process, I'm meeting some of the most intelligent and fascinating students at tournaments. The Speech community is a creative outlet where I'm comfortable having my ideas challenged and challenging others. I plan to join the Michigan Debate team, and help coach high school Speech teams in Ann Arbor (my coaches are college students), because I believe that every teenager should be encouraged to critically explore current events, while getting comfortable speaking to inanimate objects, judges, and competitors in the process.

24. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "EMT"

I love being an EMT. I love the urgency of working in an ambulance, the way my heart quickens and my mind focuses when providing emergency patient care. But most of all, I love helping individuals in my community in a way most other people can’t. As EMT's, we’re endowed with the opportunity to intervene at the most critical points in a person's life, to provide calm and stability in life-or-death situations.

These are moments cemented in their memories, ones that define their conception of hardship and struggle. Every call I run presents a chance to make a permanent difference, from a classmate’s suicide attempt to a stranger’s car accident. By being there and providing compassion within chaos, I cherish the opportunity to positively influence each of my patient's lives. I wouldn’t give it up for anything.

25. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "Soccer Lessons"

The activity which I am most passionate about and plan to continue is soccer. Soccer has taught me multiple skills applicable to all aspects of life. These include leadership, teamwork, and work ethic. As captain of the soccer team, I have taken away various lessons I can apply in life. For instance, I have improved not only giving constructive criticism, but also receiving it- something which I am still working toward. Similarly, I have learned to be a better teammate, as soccer is reliant on playing together. Most significantly, soccer has brought me a desire to work hard, as being great requires so much more than pure talent. The impact of soccer on my life has created a new challenge for my future. I would like to continue playing because I want to take what I have learned and expand on it, and ultimately teach these lessons to others.

26. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "Playing Horn"

It started from scratch, in 4th grade band Just me, my horn, and a small music stand Not knowing where, one day, this horn would take me Not knowing it would all be so grand.

I practiced for years, my range did expand I kept working and listening to teacher’s commands I’d keep on improving, as long as I practiced Whenever I got some time on my hands.

Failures have been tough to fully withstand. Each judge’s musical taste is hard to understand. But under the bright lights of Juilliard and Lincoln Center My journey could not have been better planned.

Looking back to where I began I couldn’t have imagined where I would land Only one activity? I’d keep playing my horn You have to play it to truly understand.

What Can You Learn From These Michigan Essays?

If you want to get into the University of Michigan in 2022, you'll need to write great supplemental essays.

Here are 26 Michigan essays that worked for the 2022 supplemental prompts so you can improve your essays.

If you enjoyed reading these Michigan essays, check out essays for other top public universities like UCLA and UC Berkeley

Are you applying to Michigan? What did you think of these U of M essays?

Ryan Chiang , Founder of EssaysThatWorked

Want to read more amazing essays that worked for top schools?

Hey! 👋 I'm Ryan Chiang, the founder of EssaysThatWorked.

Get our 5-minute free newsletter packed with essay tips and college admissions resources, backed by real-life examples from admitted students at top-20 schools.

Meet the Author

Ryan Chiang

I'm Ryan Chiang and I created EssaysThatWorked - a website dedicated to helping students write college essays they're proud of. We publish the best college admissions essays from successful applicants every year to inspire and teach future students.

You might also like:

12 UNC Chapel Hill Essay Examples (2023)

12 UNC Chapel Hill Essay Examples (2023)

7 University of Virginia EssaysThatWorked

7 University of Virginia EssaysThatWorked

3 University of Wisconsin-Madison EssaysThatWorked

3 University of Wisconsin-Madison EssaysThatWorked

3 University of Pittsburgh EssaysThatWorked

3 University of Pittsburgh EssaysThatWorked

23 College Essay Tips to Stand Out

What do outstanding essays have in common? Here are our 23 most effective strategies based on lessons from admitted students.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

By signing up you agree to Terms and Privacy Policy

university of michigan artifact essay

Now available for November 2023 ...

The College Essay Workshop

Join my on-demand step-by-step course for crafting outstanding college admissions essays, plus 1-on-1 help.

Here's everything needed to write essays worthy of Top-20 colleges.

Google Rating

Join our students who have earned acceptances to schools like...

See exactly how students wrote admitted essays for top schools.

Our 231 essay examples show you how ordinary students wrote outstanding essays that helped their applications - all in their own words.

These aren’t just essay examples - but real acceptance stories, from real students who share their most intimate details with you - down to their real essays and exact profiel stats.

How do I find a unique topic? How do I write a great essay? And how do I stand out?

Our 231 essay examples break down these exact questions. Every type of essay prompt, student, and school.

You’ll realize these students are just like you - and that, deep down, you can do it too.

university of michigan artifact essay

Princeton Admitted Essay

People love to ask why. Why do you wear a turban? Why do you have long hair? Why are you playing a guitar with only 3 strings and watching TV at 3 A.M.—where did you get that cat? Why won’t you go back to your country, you terrorist? My answer is... uncomfortable. Many truths of the world are uncomfortable...

university of michigan artifact essay

MIT Admitted Essay

Her baking is not confined to an amalgamation of sugar, butter, and flour. It's an outstretched hand, an open invitation, a makeshift bridge thrown across the divides of age and culture. Thanks to Buni, the reason I bake has evolved. What started as stress relief is now a lifeline to my heritage, a language that allows me to communicate with my family in ways my tongue cannot. By rolling dough for saratele and crushing walnuts for cornulete, my baking speaks more fluently to my Romanian heritage than my broken Romanian ever could....

university of michigan artifact essay

UPenn Admitted Essay

A cow gave birth and I watched. Staring from the window of our stopped car, I experienced two beginnings that day: the small bovine life and my future. Both emerged when I was only 10 years old and cruising along the twisting roads of rural Maryland...

Over 200 more admitted essays like these...

Learn the secrets behind outstanding application essays.

College essays are confusing. And it's not your fault. You're not taught how to write them in school.

How should I structure my essay? Can I use humor? What makes a truly great essay?

There's so much conflicting advice out there.

And with people selling "magic formulas" and "structures" to follow... it's easy to be led astray.

You’ll get access to courses, live events, a dedicated essay coach, and countless resources to help you write your best essays.

You finally have a place where you can ask these questions, get advice, and see exactly how admitted students before you did it.

You’re no longer figuring out everything on your own. You're no longer stuck wondering.

Everything you get

231 essays analyzed

Explore our database of 200+ admitted essays from top-20 colleges. Filter by prompt, school, topic, word count, and more. Get expert insights into why they worked and what you can learn from them.

Exclusive access to essay editing

You'll get access to our essay editing services, which is only offered for members. You can get your essays reviewed personally by me (Ryan). I'll give you detailed feedback on how to improve your essays and make them stand out.

Dedicated essay coach & support

You'll get access to our private community, where you can ask questions and get help from me directly. I'll be there to answer your questions and provide unlimited personalized advice.

44 in-depth video lessons

Learn the secrets behind outstanding essays. We break down the entire process, from brainstorming to writing and editing. You'll learn how to write amazing college essays for any prompt, with step-by-step guides and actionable tips.

26 downloadable guides

Get our best tips and tricks in easy-to-read guides. Learn what makes great essays, how to brainstorm your best topics, and how to write specific parts like a powerful hook and memorable ending.

Tons of bonuses

Get the Ultimate College Application Planner, my 154-Point Essay Checklist, and more. You'll also get a free copy of my eBooks, including 23 College Essay Tips to Stand Out and more.

Don't take our word for it

Some names have been changed to protect the privacy of our students and parents.

" Ryan, I want to express our great appreciation to you for your help on George's application essays. You have provided invaluable resources! P.S. I will certainly recommend you to our friends. "

university of michigan artifact essay

" Ryan—David got into The University of Michigan!!! Only 4 kids got in out of 200 that applied at his school!!! Thank you so so much for everything "

university of michigan artifact essay

" Thank you for the incredible help Ryan - both Hannah and I have said repeatedly that we could not have done it without you! "

university of michigan artifact essay

" Thank you for your help with my essays back in November, including my Yale supplements. Just wanted to let you know I ended up getting into and committing to Yale! "

university of michigan artifact essay

" I feel so much more reassured to press the submit button now. I wish I knew about your site sooner! "

university of michigan artifact essay

" ... Invaluable to me during the college admissions process! It gave me a different perspective to look at my essays. "

university of michigan artifact essay

" Initially I was skeptical about my essay's idea and whether it was properly reflected in my writing. This gave me a clear direction! "

university of michigan artifact essay

Don't miss out on writing your best college essays.

© 2018- 2023 Essays That Worked . All rights reserved.

Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms and Conditions , Privacy Policy , and Cookie Policy .

We have no affiliation with any university or colleges on this site. All product names, logos, and brands are the property of their respective owners.

  • Is Business Right for Me?
  • Bachelor of Business Administration
  • Business Minor
  • Entrepreneurship Minor
  • Real Estate Development Minor
  • Course Catalog
  • Electives, Minors & Opportunities
  • Global Student Experiences (undergraduate)
  • Summer Business Academy

Student smiling

Ranked #4 by U.S. News & World Report, the Michigan Ross BBA Program is one of the best undergraduate business program in the world. Explore what makes our inclusive community of learners so unique.

  • Which MBA Format is Right for Me?
  • Full-Time MBA
  • Evening MBA
  • Weekend MBA
  • Executive MBA
  • Which One-Year Master's Degree is Right for Me?
  • Master of Accounting
  • Master of Business Analytics
  • Master of Management
  • Master of Supply Chain Management
  • Global Student Experiences (graduate)
  • MAP Projects & Testimonials

Students smiling

At Michigan Ross, you gain more than just a first-class business education. Our collaborative, supportive, inclusive community enriches your experience, and sets you up with a lifetime network of friends across the globe.

  • Faculty Overview
  • Faculty Directory
  • Faculty News & Research
  • Academic Areas
  • Books & Publications
  • Faculty Excellence
  • Faculty Recruiting
  • Centers, Institutes & Initiatives
  • India Initiatives
  • Technology & Business Innovation Forum
  • Thomas C. Jones Undergraduate Innovation Initiative
  • Tozzi Electronic Business and Finance Center
  • PhD Program

Professor teaching class

The work of Michigan Ross faculty influences the world’s largest companies and global economies. Every day we’re creating real-world solutions for the most pressing challenges in our world. 

  • Centers & Institutes
  • Executive Education
  • Alumni News
  • Michigan Ross+Financial Times
  • School News
  • Student Voices
  • Browse All Events
  • Social Media
  • News Archive
  • For the Media
  • Commencement
  • Handleman Lecture Series
  • William K. McInally Memorial Lecture Series
  • Mitchell Lecture Series
  • Full-Time MBA: Ross Women’s Weekend and UpClose Diversity Weekend

Financial Times logo

Follow a monthly poll co-created by Financial Times and Michigan Ross for insights on how American voters perceive key financial and economic issues in the lead-up to the 2024 U.S. presidential election.

  • About Michigan Ross
  • Mission & Values
  • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
  • Key Facts & Figures
  • Ross Experiences in Action-Based Learning: REAL
  • Business+Impact
  • Business+Tech
  • Ross Around the World
  • About Sharon F. Matusik
  • Ross Leadership Team
  • Ross School Advisory Board
  • 100 Years of Michigan Ross
  • Visit Ann Arbor
  • Visit Detroit

100 years of Michigan Ross Impact logo

Discover more about the history, people, milestones, and contributions that have shaped Michigan Ross.

  • How to Apply: First Year Applicants
  • Admissions Portfolio
  • Download Brochure
  • How to Apply: Transfer Applicants
  • Download Information
  • How to Apply: U-M Transfer Applicants
  • Tuition & Financial Aid
  • Affording your BBA
  • Admissions Events
  • Outreach Programs
  • Connect with a Student
  • Meet Our Admissions Team
  • Undergraduate Admissions Blog
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Curriculum by Year
  • REAL. Business Experiences
  • Specializations
  • Och Initiative for Women
  • Coaching & Advising
  • Global Opportunities
  • Entrepreneurship
  • General Management
  • Human Capital
  • Marketing and Sales
  • Real Estate
  • Social Impact & Sustainability
  • Employment Data
  • Summer Business Experiences
  • Student Experience
  • Student Stories
  • Featured Profiles
  • Clubs & Involvement
  • Information for Parents
  • How to Apply
  • Short-term and Summer Global Experiences
  • Global Semester Exchange
  • University of Michigan Global Opportunities
  • Current Undergraduate Exchange Partners
  • Undergraduate Exchange at Ross

Our Must-Read Tips for Applying this Year

university of michigan artifact essay

Happy New (Admissions) Year! With the Common Application opening at the beginning of August, we have officially started to recruit, admit, and enroll a new class of students. 

If you have previously looked at the Common Application, you should note there have not been any major changes to the application or the materials you need to submit to Michigan Ross this year. Your application is an important part of the admissions process, and one of your first steps on your journey to college, and hopefully into the Ross BBA Program. 

As we kick-off the 2022-23 application cycle, I wanted to share best practice advice with you. Below are a handful of my top tips to keep in mind when you are applying. 

Tip 1: Read the instructions

This means ALL of the instructions. I know this sounds a bit obvious, but it really is a very important tip. There are a variety of materials that are submitted beyond the Common Application, including your high school transcript and school report, letters of recommendation, any test scores you are submitting (the TOEFL, MELAB, or IELTS scores required only for non-native speakers of English), and your Ross Admissions Portfolio . When submitting your Common Application, remember to go slowly as you fill in the application fields and upload your essays. And, make sure you understand the instructions for: 

  • Requesting your high school transcripts be sent directly from your high school; 
  • The forms or links your recommenders need to use to submit their letters of recommendation on your behalf; 
  • The school code to request that the testing agency submit your test scores to the institution you are applying to (the U-M code for ACT is 2062 and for the SAT it is 1839);
  • The SlideRoom link for your Ross Admissions Portfolio.

Tip 2: Answer the essay or portfolio prompt as directed 

You might be surprised to hear that many applicants do not follow the essay or portfolio prompts very well. Please ensure that you are reading, understanding, and writing a response that meets what the prompt is asking for. A good exercise I often suggest is to give the final draft of your essay to a friend, teacher, guidance counselor, family member, or someone else you trust. But do not give them the essay prompt or essay question. Once they have read your final essay, ask them what they think the question was that you are trying to answer. If their answer comes close to the actual essay prompt, then you have done your job well.

Tip 3: Have someone proofread your essays and portfolio submissions 

While it's beneficial to have someone else review your application materials, have them pay more attention to the overall content and any typos. Do not have them edit heavily so that your voice stays intact. Remember that this is your story to tell. It is not about  your parents who work in business, or the cousin who is pursuing an MBA, it is about you. This is self-reflective writing, so reflect on why you want to study business, or the moment you knew what direction you wanted to take your college degree, that is the story we want to hear. 

Tip 4: Don’t overthink it  

This is not a creative writing competition. A college admission essay is where we want to learn about you, your interests, accomplishments, and goals. We look for storytelling rather than creativity. Show (don’t tell!) us about an experience you have had, a contribution you have made, or a time you experienced growth and learning. (Hint: This is especially important for your Artifact reflection.) What do I mean by “show, don’t tell”? Instead of telling us what you did in the Artifact (often exhibited by giving us a play-by-play account in your 250-word reflection), show us through a story on what the experience was like for you, how you contributed, or what you learned from the experience. 

Tip 5: Submit by the Early Action Deadline

The Early Action deadline is Nov. 1 this year, and it is also the Ross priority deadline. If you are reading this in August, and you have an interest in the Michigan Ross BBA, then you have plenty of time to apply by Nov. 1. Early Action is non-binding (we do not have any application deadline restrictions or Early Decision deadlines at U-M), and applying by the Nov. 1 deadline is in your best interest. We receive, review, and make decisions periodically for the BBA program, and the later you apply, the higher likelihood that we are filling up and will have less space for admission offers later in the process. 

I hope these application tips were helpful. Remember that our website is a wonderful resource for more information on applying, and we have many ways to connect with us . I look forward to reading your applications this winter.

Blaire Moody Rideout

"Be unique. Be yourself."

IMAGES

  1. 2022-23 University of Michigan Supplemental Essay Guide

    university of michigan artifact essay

  2. University of Michigan Essay Guide by Office of Undergraduate Admissions

    university of michigan artifact essay

  3. University Of Michigan Library Uncovers Secret About Famous Artifact

    university of michigan artifact essay

  4. University of Michigan Ross Artifact

    university of michigan artifact essay

  5. University of Michigan Ross artifact(portfolio).

    university of michigan artifact essay

  6. University of Michigan Portfolio Artifact

    university of michigan artifact essay

VIDEO

  1. Be Wary of This in Your College Essays

COMMENTS

  1. Here Are Our Favorite Portfolio Artifacts Ross ...

    November 27, 2017 Here Are Our Favorite Portfolio Artifacts Ross Applicants Have Submitted Recently Print One of the things we get the most questions about from prospective students (besides, "What are my chances of getting into Ross?") is our admissions portfolio and the artifact we ask prospective students to submit. I understand why.

  2. An Overview of UMich's Ross School of Business Prompt 2

    The second Ross School of Business essay asks you to select an artifact that represents something significant about your life. Then, you'll write a description explaining how your chosen artifact demonstrates learning in action. This artifact doesn't have to be related to business.

  3. More Than Numbers. Your Personal Experiences and ...

    The prompt for the Artifact is to upload a document or artifact that represents something significant about your life to show your learning in action. Then describe how your artifact demonstrates your learning in action in approximately 250 words. School-based project. Chosen artifact: Braiding hair culture project. Artifact form: Video

  4. How to Write the University of Michigan Essays 2023-2024

    All Applicants—Prompt 1 Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (100-550 words) All Applicants—Prompt 2

  5. University of Michigan Is Selling Student Data to AI Companies

    University of Michigan Is Selling Student Data to AI Companies Tech employees are getting cold emails offering free samples of essays and recordings of students' voices.

  6. How (and Why) the University of Michigan Built Its Own Closed

    Note. Karthik Duraisamy, Generative Artificial Intelligence Advisory Committee Report, University of Michigan, June 30, 2023. Jump back to footnote 1 in the text. ↩ Case Study Contributors: Ravi Pendse, Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer, University of Michigan; Robert Jones, Executive Director of Emerging Technology and Support Services for Information ...

  7. University of Michigan Guide [Admission Overview]

    University of Michigan Guide. The Ivy Scholars guide to the University of Michigan's culture, admissions, and other essential information for prospective students and their families. Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan. Mascot: Biff the Wolverine. Type: Public Research Institution. Population: 46,000 (29,800 undergrads)

  8. University of Michigan Says It's Not Selling Student Data to AI Companies

    The message offers data from 85 hours worth of lectures, discussion sections, and interviews for $15,595, a second set of 829 papers written by University of Michigan students across various ...

  9. University of Michigan Essay Examples (And Why They Worked)

    AUTHOR 1 Given the excellent academic program, the University of Michigan provides a wonderful opportunity for me to learn and grow both as a student and person. During my recent tour of campus, I was excited about the idea that I had the potential to make a mark on this large university.

  10. An Example of UMich's Ross School of Business Prompt 1

    In this post, we go over an example answer to the first essay prompt for the University of Michigan 's Ross School of Business. For more information about this college's admissions, check out this article on how to get into the University of Michigan. "Choose a current event or issue in your community and discuss the business implications.

  11. Michigan Ross Essay Examples & Tips, 2023-2024

    Download your free copy of the Michigan Ross Interview Guide today. To learn more about the essays for other top business schools, visit our MBA Essay Tips and Examples Resources Page. Feb 1, 2024 Penn State Smeal (Round 3) Feb 8, 2024 Esade (Round 4) Feb 8, 2024 Esade (Round 4) Feb 22, 2024 Duke Fuqua (Round 3)

  12. University of Michigan's 2023-24 Essay Prompts

    Required 650 words The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores?

  13. How to Write Every Ross School of Business Essay for the University of

    Brad Schiller May 10, 2023 read In the Ross School of Business Application, there are two supplemental essays. These essays will give you the opportunity to showcase your problem-solving skills and your passion for business. This guide will help you develop compelling topics that show why you're a great fit for Ross!

  14. Essay Questions

    The Common Application Personal Essay The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores?

  15. UMich Ross Artifact Dilemma

    1 Like According to Ross' admissions blog, they say "When choosing an artifact, try to find the "missing piece" in your application. What don't we know about you? Consider sharing something that you are proud of and that is uni…

  16. My Michigan Ross BBA Portfolio Artifact: A Personal Blog

    Need some help deciding on your artifact for the #RossBBA Class of 2025 admissions application? Hear how one of our current students chose their...

  17. How Museums Handle Cultural Artifacts

    Responses to a guest essay about stolen artifacts and replicas. Also: President Biden's climate leadership; giving voters choices; free SAT tutoring.

  18. Authentic Student Work in College Admissions: Lessons From the Ross

    The Business Case Discussion is a 500-word essay designed to capture an applicant's understanding of business. Applicants must identify and pose a solution to a business-related issue that is personally meaningful. The Artifact is a 250-word essay that accompanies a multimedia file meant to demonstrate how an applicant has applied prior learning.

  19. Ross Portfolio Exercise Lets BBA Applicants Showcase ...

    September 19, 2017. When high school seniors apply to the BBA Program at Michigan Ross, they are asked to do a little something extra. As part of their standard application to the university, they also submit the two-part Ross Admissions Portfolio. Now in its second year, the portfolio helps give the Ross Undergraduate Admissions team some ...

  20. New Essay Questions, Updated Standardized Test Policy ...

    Additional short-answer essay, career goal essay splitting into two parts. As with previous years, we are giving applicants flexibility in choosing from two sets of prompts in our short-answer essay questions, but we added a new short-answer question. The new question asks applicants to tell us more about one item on their resume.

  21. How to Write the University of Michigan Supplemental Essays: Examples

    How to Write the University of Michigan Supplemental Essay Prompt #1 How to Write the University of Michigan Supplemental Essay Prompt #2 The University of Michigan essays are kind of like the Pyramid of Giza if you turned it upside down and cut it into thirds. Maybe I should elaborate.

  22. Michigan Ross school of Business portfolio Question?

    Describe how your artifact demonstrates your learning in action. Please limit this response to approximately 250 words. I'm also wondering if there is a completed essay I can look at to see what exactly I should be doing (for the first question, as well as the second question). here's the link for both the questions in case anyone is wondering.

  23. 2 University of Michigan Essay Examples

    UMich is a "most selective" school, so you'll need strong essays to help your application stand out from tens of thousands of applicants. In this post we will share two essays real students submitted to the University of Michigan.

  24. 26 University of Michigan Supplemental Essay Examples (2023)

    Here you can find 26 examples of Michigan essays that worked. Since many of Michigan's prompts have stayed the same year after year, these examples answer this year's prompts. What is Michigan's application deadline for this year? The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor offers two admissions deadlines for Fall 2023: early action and regular decision.

  25. Our Must-Read Tips for Applying this Year

    Tip 5: Submit by the Early Action Deadline. The Early Action deadline is Nov. 1 this year, and it is also the Ross priority deadline. If you are reading this in August, and you have an interest in the Michigan Ross BBA, then you have plenty of time to apply by Nov. 1. Early Action is non-binding (we do not have any application deadline ...