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5 Tips for Writing an Incredible FSU Essay

College Essays

Florida State University, or FSU, is a top-100 school and ranked number three in Florida Colleges . With a 25 percent acceptance rating , they’re considered to be a competitive school. That means you’ll need to impress them in your application, and a well-written FSU essay is one great way to go about it!

This guide will walk you through the FSU essay, including whether or not writing one is the right choice for you.

Feature image: Ayzmo /Wikimedia Commons

What Should You Know About the FSU Application Essay?

Unlike many schools, FSU’s essay is optional. You can apply using the Coalition or Common Application, or even FSU’s own app—the Coalition and FSU apps have the same prompts, whereas the Common app has its own set.

Whether you should use the Coalition, Common, or FSU-specific application depends on a few different variables. What application system do the other schools that you’re applying to use? Because these applications can be sent to multiple schools, you can use whatever one is most convenient.

If you’re not sure, read up on the pros and cons of each to help you make a decision. If you’re still not sure, you can always use FSU’s unique application.

FSU only requires one essay. You have five prompts to choose from if you’re using the FSU or Coalition Application, and seven to choose from if you’re using the Common Application. Regardless of what prompt you choose, your essay should be under 600 words.

If you're thinking about writing an FSU essay, you probably should.

Should You Write an FSU Essay?

Because FSU’s essays are optional, it’s natural to ask whether you should write one at all. You’re likely writing tons of essays for other applications, and maybe you just want a bit of a break from the whole process.

However, if you’re given the opportunity to expand on your application in an essay, it’s usually in your best interest to take it. Before you start, do some brainstorming about what aspects of yourself could use some fleshing out in your application. If you have an interest that hasn’t been covered elsewhere or an experience you want to share that will help make you a more appealing candidate for FSU, definitely write the essay—it’s your best opportunity to showcase that side of you, and those personal details are exactly what FSU wants to see.

I f you’re struggling to think of something to cover in the supplemental essay, spend some time brainstorming and looking through all of the available prompts . If you’re offered a place to write an essay, it’s best to take it, unless you truly feel that you have nothing to expand upon. If that’s the case, consider why that is—you may find that there’s an essay topic there, too!

Essentially, you should be writing an essay for this section, even if it’s optional. Taking this opportunity to expand on your application both demonstrates your commitment and shows your multiple facets. It won’t be the sole determining factor in your application, but if you have the opportunity to up your chances, do it!

A fresh notebook is one great way to get your brain in gear to write.

What Are the FSU Essay Prompts?

FSU’s essay prompts are determined by which application you choose to use— Coalition, Common, or FSU’s own application . If you choose the Coalition or FSU application, you have five prompts to choose from, and if you choose the Common Application you’ll have seven. You only need to write one essay, so choose whichever prompt resonates with you most strongly.

Because these are the same prompts used in the standard application formats, follow the guidelines for either the Coalition Application or the Common Application depending on which prompt you choose. Do feel free to get more specific than you would if the essay was going to every school, however—if you’re only sending it to FSU, tying your essay to something specific about the college can demonstrate that you’re more serious about attending!

Coalition Application/FSU Essay Prompts

• Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it.
• Describe a time when you made a meaningful contribution to others in which the greater good was your focus. Discuss the challenges and rewards of making your contribution.
• Has there been a time when you've had a long-cherished or accepted belief challenged? How did you respond? How did the challenge affect your beliefs?
• What is the hardest part of being a teenager now? What's the best part? What advice would you give a younger sibling or friend (assuming they would listen to you)?
• Submit an essay on a topic of your choice.

Common Application Essay Prompts

• 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?
• Describe a problem you've solved or a problem you'd like to solve. It can be an intellectual challenge, a research query, an ethical dilemma - anything that is of personal importance, no matter the scale. Explain its significance to you and what steps you took or could be taken to identify a solution.
• 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.

Having a plan from the start will help you write a better FSU essay.

5 Key FSU Essay Tips

As with all college essays, having a plan before you start is the best way to ace FSU’s supplemental essay. Don’t just jump in and hope for the best—start early, give yourself plenty of time to revise, and polish your essay as best you can to impress the admissions office with your achievements and individuality.

Remember everything you learned in school about brainstorming and outlining? Now’s the time to put it into action. If you brainstorm and outline a few different options to find the one that works best for you and that makes you feel the proudest of it, you’ll save yourself some time. A strong outline is the first step to a strong essay, and you won’t be losing hours and hours of work if you decide midway through that a prompt isn’t working for you.

Once you’ve settled on a topic and you have a firm idea of how you want to write it, it’s time to draft. Don’t worry about making your first draft perfect—nobody has to see it but you! Get your ideas out first, set them aside, and return to them after a few days to polish them into a state where you’re comfortable letting others see them.

#3: Seek Feedback

Now comes the hard part—letting other people give you feedback. Choose a few people you trust to give you honest and helpful advice on your essay, not just those who are going to tell you it looks great. When you receive feedback, don’t feel like it’s a personal attack or that you need to make every change people suggest—often, you can find a middle ground between readers not understanding what you meant and maintaining your own voice and writing style.

Revising is one of the most important steps in crafting a great essay. All that feedback you got in the previous step will help guide your next draft, giving you a roadmap to work from. Make notes on your draft, add and delete things, and read the whole thing aloud to make sure it flows well. Once you’re satisfied, put it away!

#5: Let It Rest

Letting your draft rest for a bit gives you some time to forget what you’ve written and come back to it with fresh eyes. When you read your essay for the first time in a while, you can start to see any errors that have crept in or any inconsistencies in your logic. Now that you’ve already gotten feedback and revised your essay, you can clean these last bits up and have an essay you’re really proud of!

What's Next?

If you're applying to FSU, you want to be sure that your standardized test scores are up to snuff. Whether you're taking the ACT or SAT , our guides will help you figure out where you are and where you need to be.

Part of college searching is figuring out what colleges you can afford and how much financial aid you'll need to cover. With our guide to FSU's tuition and financial aid , all your bases are covered!

Not sure if FSU is for you? Check out this list of other schools in Florida to find the college that suits you best.

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Melissa Brinks graduated from the University of Washington in 2014 with a Bachelor's in English with a creative writing emphasis. She has spent several years tutoring K-12 students in many subjects, including in SAT prep, to help them prepare for their college education.

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FSU | Writing Resources

Writing Resources

Department of English

• Reading-Writing Center

The Writing Center |   We work best when we work with others.

The Florida State University Reading-Writing Center (RWC) is an inclusive resource for FSU students of all majors, programs, and backgrounds. Whether you are working on a paper or larger writing project, the RWC-DS can assist you during any stage of your work process.

In the RWC, our consultants act as practice audiences for ideas and projects. Here are some of the ways we can work with you:  

• You are working on a research essay that calls for using scholarly articles and synthesizing sources.
• You are writing a personal statement for different graduate programs.
• You are writing a piece of fiction, creative nonfiction, and/or poetry and would like feedback.
• You are putting together a conference article or research presentation.
• You are revising a thesis or dissertation section.

Whether in person or online, we're committed to providing sessions that help you to express your ideas in academics and beyond. 

Schedule a Meeting

During fall and spring semesters, the Writing Center offers in-person and Zoom meetings.  If you have not used the writing center before, learn how to make an appointment .

631 University Way

Located in the English department on the second floor (room 222) , our main writing center holds sessions Monday through Friday.

Please note: the Williams building is  NOT  the William-Johnston building! This location is on the east side of campus near Westcott Fountain between Dodd Hall and Diffenbaugh Building. 

143 Honors Way

The RWC has a satellite location in the Johnston (William-Johnston) building on the ground floor platform area Monday through Friday.

The Johnston location is in the center of campus next to Landis Green and the Honors College. Look for the large writing center sign across from the main staircase in the lobby.

116 Honors Way

Looking for later times? The RWC is in Strozier library Monday through Thursday from 5-8pm. We are located on the first floor near the circulation desk.

Look for the writing center signs on the small kidney bean tables, in-between the computers and lounge area. Can't find us? Visit the circulation desk for assistance.

Make Your Appointment Here

You can view a map of our campus locations here .

Hours of Operation

Fall 2024 (sept. 3 to dec. 6).

We offer in-person and Zoom appointments across all locations. Please note our operating hours are in Eastern Standard Time (EST).

Writing Center @ Williams (English Building, Room 222)

Writing Center @ Johnston Ground Platform 

Writing Center @ Strozier 

Writing Center @ Online (Zoom Only)

To make an appointment or to see our availability, go to  fsu.mywconline.com    

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Reading-Writing Center (RWC)? 

The Reading-Writing Center is a writing resource for FSU students of all majors, programs, and backgrounds. In the RWC, consultants act as practice audiences for ideas and writing projects. 

What projects can I work on at the RWC?

The RWC welcomes all writing projects. We work with students on writing such as critical essays, research papers, theses and dissertation drafts, creative writing, and professional job documents. When you schedule a meeting, our consultants will discuss your writing goals and areas of focus (brainstorming, organization, formatting, etc.) with you. 

Who can I work with and how can they help me?

Our consultants are undergraduate and graduate students. Read their bios and learn more about their specialty areas: https://wr.english.fsu.edu/Reading-Writing-Center/Meet-the-Staff  

Whether the session is in-person or online, our consultants can work with students on any stage of the writing process from brainstorming to revising. They can work with you as you develop ideas or revise aspects of your writing, but please note that consultants cannot line edit for students. Our goal is to work with students and offer strategies or approaches for their writing projects. 

What should I bring to my appointment?

Please bring a laptop or have two paper copies of your writing ready at the start of the consultation. If you are working on a draft or have written ideas, you can upload the file(s) to your appointment form. 

How do I make an appointment? 

If you haven't used our service before, register for an account here .

Log in at fsu.mywconline.com , select a schedule, and make an appointment by selecting an available time. You will receive an email confirmation indicating your appointment has been made. You can log back into the system at any time to change or cancel your appointment.

What if I need to cancel my appointment? 

If you can’t attend your in-person or Zoom meeting, please cancel your appointment at https://fsu.mywconline.com . 

There is no penalty for a cancellation. However, if you miss your meeting and don't cancel, we will mark you as a no-show. After three no-shows, your account will automatically be deactivated until you contact the RWC Director ( [email protected] ). 

Will the RWC proofread or edit my work? 

The RWC will not proofread or line edit for students. Instead, a consultant will work with you to learn skills and strategies that will help you proofread and edit more effectively. 

If you are a graduate student who needs assistance with Electronic Thesis & Dissertation (ETD) formatting, please consult the Graduate School’s formatting guidelines.

Do I need to bring a draft to my session? 

No. You are not required to bring any writing to the RWC. Consultants can assist you at any stage of the writing process including the early idea stages. Simply make an appointment and note brainstorming as one of your goals in the form. 

What is the Digital Studio (DS)? 

The Digital Studio is a learning facility for digital and multimedia projects. Consultants in the DS can help students with digital projects such as websites, video editing, or layout design.

Digital Studio computers all have access to the Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere). For more information, visit: https://wr.english.fsu.edu/digital-studio-home . 

I am an undergraduate. How can I get more involved in the Reading-Writing Center and Digital Studio? Do I need to be an English major? 

The RWC hires undergraduate interns from any major who have taken ENC 3493: Peer Tutoring in the Reading-Writing Center and Digital Studio. This prerequisite course explores how learners approach writing and why these approaches are highly individualized. ENC 3493 is an experiential learning course that includes observation and co-consulting with current RWC consultants.  

Stay in Touch

[email protected]  |  @fsurwc         .

Florida State University | FSU

• Cost & scholarships
• Essay prompt

Want to see your chances of admission at Florida State University | FSU?

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

Florida State University | FSU’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

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?

FSU | Events Calendar

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Events calendar.

Optional Subhead

• Florida State University Calendar
• Past Events

FSU General Application & Honors Application for First-Year Applicants Goes Live

Monday, August 1, 2022

• Share FSU General Application & Honors Application for First-Year Applicants Goes Live on Facebook
• Share FSU General Application & Honors Application for First-Year Applicants Goes Live on Twitter
• Share FSU General Application & Honors Application for First-Year Applicants Goes Live on LinkedIn

About this Event

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

*FSU and University Honors applications go live on  August 1, 2022 . Read below for detailed instructions on how to apply.*

To apply to the Florida State University Honors Program, potential students must complete following steps:

1. APPLY TO FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY

To be considered for University Honors, first-year applicants must first submit an application to Florida State University by December 1, 2022 and select "Yes" to the question, “Are you interested in applying to the Honors Program?”

• When applying through the FSU Application, this question is located on the Additional Academic History page.
• When applying through the Common App, this question is located under Academics in the Questions section.
• When applying through the Coalition Application, this question is located under Honors in the Additional Information section.

Once the university application has been submitted, please allow some time for the University Honors Application to become available on the Application Status Check. For students applying through the Common App or the Coalition Application, this may take up to 48 hours.

2. COMPLETE THE HONORS APPLICATION

Students must indicate their interest in and complete their supplemental University Honors Application by 11:59 pm EST on December 12, 2022 to be considered for University Honors.

The University Honors Application consists of a series of student dispositions and short answer questions. Applicants must answer every question to be considered for the University Honors. Applicants to University Honors will be evaluated based on a holistic approach including, but not limited to, grades and strength of curriculum, honors and awards, extracurricular achievements, unique individual talents, quality of responses to the short-answer questions, and ACT/SAT test scores.

The academic profile of the middle 50% of applicants admitted to University Honors in 2021 was: 4.40-4.66 weighted GPA; 32-34 ACT composite score; 1440-1520 SAT total score.

Applicants will be notified of whether they were admitted to FSU and University Honors on  February 15, 2023.  

Visit the FSU Admissions website for more information on applying as a first-year student:  https://admissions.fsu.edu/first-year/  .

For Honors Program related questions, please visit our website at  https://honors.fsu.edu/university-honors/admission-university-honors  or contact our office at [email protected]  (850-644-1841) for more information.

Event Details

Departments Filters

Contact Name:

Honors Staff

Contact Phone

850-644-1841

Contact Email

[email protected]

Search form

FSU Foundation

The university honors program, student success initiatives.

As the oldest four-year Honors Program in the state of Florida, the Florida State University Honors Program (UHP) offers students a vibrant academic experience with the support of faculty, staff, and advisors whose mission is to nurture individual growth and promote meaningful connections. Participation in this rigorous academic program encourages student-scholars to challenge, inspire, and collaborate with one another to become influential thought-leaders and informed global citizens during their time as students and beyond.

In addition to providing a cutting-edge interdisciplinary curriculum taught by dedicated faculty, the University Honors Program facilitates student community through carefully designed co-curricular and extra-curricular events. These experiences foster critical thinking as a foundation for academic success and future leadership. Our University Honors students and alumni develop into campus influencers, receive recognition for earning national and international awards, and volunteer in the local and global community, in turn bringing distinction to Florida State University.

With your support, the University Honors Program plans to increase access to each impactful event, expand the scope and diversity of speakers and experiences, and equip students with financial support to engage in learning opportunities throughout the U.S. and around the world. To learn more about the University Honors Program, please visit University Honors Program (fsu.edu) . 

FSU awards honors medallions to more than 300 Spring 2023 graduates

Published May 23, 2023

Florida State University awarded honors medallions to 331 high-achieving graduates during a ceremony May 1 at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall.

The FSU Honors Program supports the efforts and talents of the university’s most intellectually curious students with the potential, dedication and drive to create change.

Continue reading

FSU awards honors medallions to fall 2022 graduates

Tallahassee Democrat, Published December 16, 2022

Florida State University awarded honors medallions to 68 high-achieving graduates during a Dec. 6 ceremony in the Alumni Center Ballroom.

The FSU Honors Program supports the efforts and talents of the university’s most intellectually curious students who have the potential, dedication and drive for creating change.

FSU names Paulette Curtis associate dean of Undergraduate Studies, director of Honors Program

Published: August 19, 2022

Paulette G. Curtis, an experienced Harvard University-educated scholar and administrator with a record of serving undergraduate students and building honors and other academic programs at top-tier universities, has been named associate dean of Undergraduate Studies and director of the Honors Program at Florida State University.

Curtis, now a visiting scholar at Tulane University, will succeed Annette Schwabe, who has returned to a faculty role at FSU’s College of Social Sciences and Public Policy, and Interim Honors Program Director Craig Filar. Curtis starts her new role Sept. 16.

FSU | Office of Admissions

Office of Admissions

• First Year WWLF

What We're Looking For

Our application review process is a holistic and selective process, where no single criterion guarantees admission. Our holistic review process is centered on three of our institutional core values - Vires, Artes, Mores.

Our focus in this area is rigor, grades, and courses taken while in high school. Each applicant is evaluated based upon the performance within the context of the student's academic environment.

Transcripts - GPA - Course Rigor - Test Scores - High School Profile

We want to see how students use their out-of-classroom time, whether through sports, clubs, organizations, family responsibilities, employment, or other achievements.

Resume - Academic and Non-academic Involvement

We are taking the information students have shared with us to learn who they are, any formative experiences they may have had, and what their life goals may be.

Essay - Resume - High School and Neighborhood Context

Additional consideration will also be given to applicants applying to the CARE Summer Bridge Program, as well as exceptionally talented visual and performing artists and athletes.

Fall 2024 Admitted Student Profile

Academic Core GPA

Summer 2024 Admitted Student Profile

These ranges reflect the Middle 50% of students admitted to Florida State University in 2024. These are NOT minimum criteria, nor does falling within these ranges guarantee that a student will be admitted.

The Florida Board of Governors sets the minimum eligibility requirements in the State University System (SUS). Satisfying these minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to Florida State University. Admission is selective, and admitted students typically exceed the minimum requirements.

Minimum Courses Required

English (4), Math (4), Natural Science (3), Social Science (3), World Language (2 sequential)

Average Courses Completed

by 2024 Accepted Students

Test Score Information

When evaluating students for admission, we use the highest earned ACT, CLT, and SAT sub scores to calculate the highest ACT, CLT and/or SAT total score (a process known as "super scoring").

In May 2023, the Classic Learning Initiatives, Inc. published The Concordance Relationship Between the Classic Learning Test (CLT) and the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) , establishing a concordance table between the CLT and the SAT.

FSU does not accept self-reported test scores from the Common App. Students should self-report their test scores on the Application Status Check using the Self-reported Test Scores form.

At least one test score must be submitted before the materials deadline, but additional tests may be considered if provided by the test score deadline:

How-to: Self-Report Your Test Scores to Florida State University

Essay & Resume

The essay and resume provide another opportunity to learn more about you.

The essay, a required component of the application, should be no longer than 650 words, and may be uploaded after the application has been submitted. Please choose a topic from the list below:

Application Essay Prompts

• 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.

The resume should be no longer than two pages, and may be uploaded after the application has been submitted. It should include a list of activities such as (but not limited to) service work, employment, family contributions such as caring for siblings or sick relatives, and extracurricular and summer activities.

Please allow 3-4 business days for us to pull your essay and resume/activities if you submitted your application through the Common App.

Schoolhouse.world certifications

Schoolhouse.world is a free, globally available platform founded by Sal Khan of Khan Academy. Students can show subject mastery and tutor other students in courses including calculus, computer science, and statistics. Applicants to Florida State University can submit Schoolhouse.world certifications as an optional supplement to their application.

While these certifications do not fulfill official requirements like transcripts, they do help us better understand your academic preparedness and fit for Florida State University.

If you have certifications from Schoolhouse.world that you would like to share with us, please send us a copy of your Schoolhouse Portfolio to [email protected] with the subject line, "Schoolhouse.world Portfolio."

Earning both a High School Diploma and an Associate in Arts (AA) degree

A high school student earning both the standard high school diploma and an Associate in Arts (AA) degree must apply to FSU as a first-year student and adhere to the first-year admission deadlines. In addition, applicants may be subject to additional major deadlines/requirements. Carefully review all major requirements at Academic Program Guide .

Those students who are receiving an AA degree through dual enrollment from the Florida College System or the State University System of Florida but do not meet the admissions requirements under the Florida Board of Governors Admission Regulation 6.002 , may be considered for admission under Florida Board of Governors Admission Regulation 6.005 . Students admitted under this regulation are first-time-in-college (FTIC) students although they are not required to submit ACT, CLT, or SAT scores. However, they should meet the requirements for their selected major as listed in FSU's Academic Program Guide . If admitted, they must submit a $200 enrollment deposit, attend a first-year orientation session, and are eligible to apply for on-campus housing. Admitted students without a test score are not eligible to be considered for first-year merit scholarships from the Office of Admissions. Students considered for admission under FL BOG 6.005 will be required to submit all official college transcript(s) for evaluation prior to an admission offer being made; they must also provide a final official college transcript displaying the AA degree before enrolling at FSU. Any FTIC student admitted under this regulation must immediately notify the Office of Admissions if they will not receive their AA degree. All students admitted under this regulation who do not receive the Associate in Arts degree will have their offer of admission revoked.

Home Education and GED Information

Florida State University considers applications from students who participated in a Home-Education program, or who have earned a GED. Home-Education applicants must complete the SSAR, while students earning a GED must submit official GED results along with an official, partial high school transcript. In addition, all applicants must submit at least one ACT, CLT, and/or SAT test score by the application deadline to be considered for admission. First-year admission is a holistic and selective process, and no single criterion guarantees admission to our university.

Admissions Resources

Academic resources, student resources, fsu & tallahassee, florida board of governors statement of free expression.

The State University System of Florida and its twelve public postsecondary institutions adopt this Statement on Free Expression to support and encourage full and open discourse and the robust exchange of ideas and perspectives on our respective campuses...

Read the full statement

  Mailing Address

A2500 University Center 282 Champions Way Tallahassee, FL 32306-2400

  Email

Undergraduate - -->[email protected] --> Graduate - -->[email protected] -->

  Phone

Admissions - (850) 644-6200 Directory Assistance - (850) 644-2525

  Hours

Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Eastern Time

Florida State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master's, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees. Florida State University also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels.

Questions about the accreditation of Florida State University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC's website ( www.sacscoc.org ).

FSU | University Honors Program

University Honors Program

Division of Undergraduate Studies

First-Year Applicants

Applying as high school seniors or first-time-in-college students.

Read More  

Lateral Applicants

Applying at the end of their first year at FSU.

Transfer Applicants  

Applying after previously attending another institution of higher education after high school.

Register for an Information Session

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

How to Write the University of Florida Essays 2024-2025

The University of Florida has one required prompt for all applicants that asks about your biggest commitment outside of the classroom. There are three prompts for all applicants that are only required if you answer “yes” to specific questions. It also has one required prompt for applicants to its Honors Program, as well as one for applicants to its Innovation Academy.

Since UF receives thousands of applications from academically-strong students, your essays are your chance to stand out. In this post, we’ll discuss how to craft an engaging response to each of these options.

Read this UF essay example written by a real student to inspire your own writing!

University of Florida Supplemental Essay Prompts

All applicants.

Prompt 1: Please provide more details on your most meaningful commitment outside of the classroom while in high school and explain why it was meaningful. This could be related to an extracurricular activity, work, volunteering, an academic activity, family responsibility, or any other non-classroom activity. (100-250 words)

Prompt 2 (optional): Do you have any employment or family obligations that limit your participation in extracurricular activities? If so, please describe. (250 words)

Prompt 3 (optional): Have you participated in or been assisted in your college preparation and search by programs outside of the classroom, such as Educational Talent Search, Take Stock in Children, Upward Bound, Boys and Girls Club, etc.? If so, please provide the name of the program, details/benefits of your involvement, and how long your experiences continued. (250 words)

Prompt 4 (optional): Is there any additional information or extenuating circumstances the Admissions Committee should know when reviewing your application? If so, please provide more information in less than 250 words.

Honors Program

As albert einstein once said, “the important thing is not to stop questioning. curiosity has its own reason for existing.” reflecting on this, what academic subjects, learning opportunities, or extracurricular activities are you most excited to engage in during your college experience how do you imagine or hope the uf honors program will help feed your curiosity and help you achieve your aspirations (150-400 words), innovation academy applicants .

Discuss why you are interested in becoming a UF Innovation Academy student and how it will influence your professional career path. (150-300 words)

All Applicants, Prompt 1

Please provide more details on your most meaningful commitment outside of the classroom while in high school and explain why it was meaningful. this could be related to an extracurricular activity, work, volunteering, an academic activity, family responsibility, or any other non-classroom activity. (250 words).

This prompt is a variation of the common Extracurricular Activity prompt since it’s asking you to write about a meaningful commitment you have outside of the classroom.

Brainstorming your topic:

First, you’ll need to narrow down your list of extracurricular activities to just one to write about. It’s important to choose an activity that you’re passionate about, that you’ve been involved in for a while, and that has helped shape you into the person you are today.

Here are some ideas of the types of topics you might write about:

• Activities where you’ve shown significant commitment
• Clubs or groups that you’ve created, or where you’ve had a leadership role
• Activities that have helped to shape a specific personal aspect of your life
• Experiences that relate to your future goals
• Unique extracurriculars that require an explanation for people to thoroughly understand them

Once you’ve chosen a topic, think about the following questions before you begin writing:

• What is the strongest emotion you feel about this activity?
• What do you think about when you participate in the activity?
• Has the activity helped you strengthen or develop any personality traits?
• Are there any specific skills you’ve developed from participating in this activity?
• How does this activity impact the rest of your life?

Tips for writing your essay:

A good response will explain what your activity, responsibility, or experience is, what it entails, and why it is important to you. Make sure to address each of these points, as they are either stated in or implied by the prompt.

Here’s an example of an excellent response to this prompt from Sara, a prospective management major:

“During my sophomore year, I started creating charcuterie boards for parties, events, and other occasions for my friends and family. I loved finding the perfect assortment of crackers, fruit, cheeses and jams to arrange into beautiful boards, but more importantly, I enjoyed networking with people at each event I worked.

After a few months, I began to receive so many referrals that I decided to start a small business. Managing my schoolwork, sports schedule, leadership roles, and my small business required me to develop excellent time management skills. I also learned about the financial aspects of running a business—managing cash flow, balancing costs, and paying taxes—and the marketing aspects of running a business—leveraging social media, paying for ad space, and utilizing other channels to promote my business.

Prior to my sophomore year, I had dreams of becoming a doctor. However, after starting my charcuterie business, I realized that my interests in finance, marketing, and business lent themselves to a future in entrepreneurship. I’m grateful for the opportunities my business has given me, and I’m excited to watch my business—and other businesses I might start—grow in the future!”

This example is strong because it very clearly states what the activity is. It then branches off into a discussion of the student’s business, something that was created as a result of the activity. The student also describes her roles in her activity/business throughout the essay, and then ends with a strong argument as to why this passion has become so meaningful to her.

Mistakes to avoid:

Choosing the wrong activity. Don’t choose to write about an extracurricular just because you think it sounds impressive, or even just because you’re skilled at it. This essay is a chance to write about an extracurricular that is meaningful to you, so it’s important that you select an activity you’re really passionate about!

Writing a shallow response. ​​It’s not effective to give a detailed history of your participation, or to tell an enticing story about the extracurricular you’ve chosen if you forget to explain how the activity has affected or changed you. It’s crucial to explain your personal development from participating in the activity.

Listing your accomplishments. Simply listing out your accomplishments with no elaboration will make for an unengaging response that reads like a laundry list. Instead, provide a unique perspective by sharing how the activity impacts your current life as well as your aspirations for the future.

A Note About Prompts 2-4

You are only required to respond to each of the following all applicants prompts if you choose the “Yes” option offered in the first half of each prompt, respectively. If any (or all) of the prompts don’t apply to you, you can choose the “No” option for that prompt, and will not need to respond to it.

All Applicants, Prompt 2 (optional)

Do you have any employment or family obligations that limit your participation in extracurricular activities if so, please describe. (250 words).

This question is similar to the Additional Information section listed in the Common App, as well as the exceptional personal circumstances prompt you might see during the application process. Check out the linked guides for tips for writing an essay like this!

One quick tip: Be sure to at least explain what the employment/obligation entailed, and why you had to take it on, as well as the results of you taking on this extra responsibility. Obligations you might write about include working to contribute financially to your family, taking care of an ill relative, or frequently babysitting younger siblings.

Consider the following example to see what a good response might include:

“Last year, my single mother was let go from her job at an insurance company when it was struggling financially and going through a period of transition. As a result, we both had to take on additional jobs to make ends meet, so I briefly left my school’s robotics team throughout the second semester and summer following junior year. Instead, I worked at a local grocery store after school and on the weekends, where I learned how to work efficiently under pressure while supporting my family.”

All Applicants, Prompt 3 (optional)

Have you participated in or been assisted in your college preparation and search by programs outside of the classroom, such as educational talent search, take stock in children, upward bound, boys and girls club, etc. please provide the name of the program, details/benefits of your involvement, and how long your experiences continued. (250 words).

This prompt is straightforward and simple. It requires you to list your involvement in programs that have helped you with your college search (outside of school), and it also asks you to list the details and benefits of your involvement in the program(s).

Here’s a sample response:

“During my junior and senior years of high school, I participated in the Take Stock in Children Program. While I was involved in the program, I was paired with a volunteer mentor and received frequent college readiness coaching. My mentor, James, was an undergraduate student at the University of Florida.

Before participating in the Take Stock in Children program, I wasn’t interested in attending college, and I was planning to work at my local grocery store after high school to support my hobby, music production. James helped me understand the importance of college and he encouraged me to pursue a Bachelor of Music degree at the University of Florida. I am grateful for how my involvement with Take Stock in Children has impacted my future education and aspirations.”

This student does a great job at answering the prompt. He lists the program name (Take Stock in Children) and the duration (junior and senior year) that he participated in the program. He also includes the details of his involvement (volunteer mentor and college readiness coaching) and most importantly, the benefits of their involvement (how his relationship with James inspired him to apply for college as a music major).

All Applicants, Prompt 4 (optional)

Is there any additional information or extenuating circumstances the admissions committee should know when reviewing your application (250 words).

​​This also resembles the Additional Information section listed in the Common App and the exceptional personal circumstances prompt . This is essentially your shot to either explain a lapse in your performance somewhere or to introduce something new about yourself that isn’t evident elsewhere in your application. 

You may elaborate further upon an extracurricular activity you feel isn’t clearly explained throughout your application (For example, say you were a Head Designer for your town’s Environmental and Aesthetic Initiative, and admissions officers may not know what that is). You could also talk about a personal story or history that has affected you greatly. You may even discuss a previously unmentioned extracurricular activity that says a lot about you.

This is a wonderfully free space for you to dive into whichever information you feel will give the admissions team the most complete version of your identity. If you don’t think this space is necessary for you, that’s fine too! Just leave it blank.

Honors Program Applicants

This prompt is a hybrid of the Academic Interest/Why This Major and Why This College essay archetypes. You’re being asked to do two things: reflect on your intellectual curiosity, and connect it to your aspirations and the University of Florida Honors Program. Your response should demonstrate a deep understanding of the Honors Program’s offerings and how they align with your academic and personal goals.

The prompt also emphasizes curiosity and enthusiasm, so make sure to convey some emotion with your writing. Use imagery to your advantage, be specific when discussing your thoughts and feelings, and describe your emotional response to the subject in a way that reveals something broader about your personality. 

In terms of topic, this essay should be about a  genuine, relevant interest – something you can discuss with passion at length. Don’t try to choose an overly serious or complex topic just to impress admissions officers – they’ll be able to tell this thing isn’t genuinely meaningful to you. Your writing should reflect true excitement and an authentic connection to your interest.

You’ll also want to describe the direction you imagine this interest taking at UF. To do this effectively, you need to do some research on UF and its Honors Program. To start, look around on the UF Honors Program website to find resources that are particularly appealing to you. 

These resources might include particular classes or professors, research groups, study abroad programs, extracurricular opportunities, or Honors traditions. For example, a student who is interested in homesteading might mention how they’re excited to take the Honors Program’s beekeeping classes to expand their knowledge and skills.

Make sure that the resources you cite are truly specific to the University of Florida, and the Honors Program specifically. You don’t want to mention a course that’s available to the university as a whole, and you especially don’t want to mention something that you could do anywhere, like study abroad in England.

Instead, mention the “Medieval Studies in King Arthur’s England” program specifically, and explain how this opportunity, where you would explore what the legend of King Arthur reflects about medieval English society more broadly, connects to your experiences in your school’s book club. That is a concrete bridge between your interests and a resource that you can find only at the University of Florida.

Consider the following questions to help you brainstorm your response:

• What subjects or fields of study fascinate you the most? Why are these areas so interesting to you?
• Have you participated in any specific activities, projects, or classes that helped spark a deep interest in this particular subject?

And for connecting your topic to the Honors Program:

• What unique academic opportunities (e.g., research projects, internships, study abroad programs) at UF Honors are you most excited about? How do they align with your goals?
• Are there any specific UF Honors professors or courses that intrigue you? How do they connect to your academic or career aspirations?
• What extracurricular activities do you plan to join or start at UF? How will these activities feed your curiosity and contribute to your personal development?
• How do you see the UF Honors Program helping you grow intellectually and personally over the next few years?

A compelling essay will be detailed and specific, and demonstrate the writer’s intellectual curiosity and commitment to UF. Use a narrative approach to show how your curiosity has shaped your academic journey so far, and include relevant personal anecdotes that show your passion for learning, and how you have proactively sought out opportunities to satisfy your curiosity.

From there, you’ll want to describe how you have already engaged with these interests or activities in high school, and how you plan to continue doing so at UF by mentioning specific academic subjects, programs, or courses at UF that excite you, and explain why they are meaningful to you and how they align with your goals.

Discuss how the UF Honors Program’s offerings will help you explore your interests in greater depth, and how this exploration will help you achieve your future aspirations. Show how your interests and goals will not only benefit you, but also contribute to the UF Honors community. If applicable, discuss how you might collaborate with peers or bring new ideas and perspectives to the Honors Program. 

Everything just mentioned is a good way to establish a tangible connection to the program, but you might also try to establish an intangible connection as well, which involves discussing how the program’s values–which are listed as opportunity, community, and challenge –might align with your own.

Now, let’s take a look at a weak example, and then see how we could revise and improve it.

“I’m excited to attend UF because it’s a prestigious school with many opportunities. I’ve always been curious about many subjects, and I know UF will provide the resources I need to explore them. Growing up in Florida, I’ve always felt connected to the environment and hope to study marine conservation to preserve the beautiful beaches in my state. I’m particularly interested in the Honors Program because it will allow me to challenge myself academically and grow as a person, especially with the different options the program has. I look forward to taking advantage of all that UF has to offer.”

This example is too vague. There’s no personal connection or clear demonstration of how the student’s curiosity drives their academic and extracurricular interests. Additionally, it doesn’t mention any particular subjects, courses, or opportunities at UF, nor does it explain how the Honors Program specifically will help the student achieve their goals. A better version is below.

“As a budding marine biologist, the sight of coral reefs bleaching off the coast of my hometown in Key West ignited a passion for understanding and protecting our oceans. I am eager to dive (no pun intended) into UF’s Honors courses like ‘Marine Conservation Biology,’ which will allow me to explore the mechanisms behind ecosystem degradation. 

I’m particularly drawn to the Honors Program’s research opportunities with faculty like Dr. David Julian, whose work on coral resilience aligns perfectly with my goal of restoring Florida’s reefs. Beyond the classroom, I plan to go on kayaking, canoeing, and surfing trips through the Center for Outdoor Recreation Education, where I’ll initiate discussions with my peers about how environmental activism benefits human and non-human animals alike.”

This excerpt utilizes more vivid storytelling, and explains more personally why the writer is drawn to their course of study. There is a clear bridge between the student’s past experiences and their future aspirations, and we can clearly see how the UF Honors Program specifically will help them achieve those goals, as well as how the student plans to contribute to the UF community.

Innovation Academy Applicants

This prompt is a narrowed down example of a “ Why This College ” essay archetype, as the focus is on the University of Florida’s Innovation Academy (IA) specifically. The admissions committee wants to know two things: why you’re interested in IA in particular, and how it will influence your future professional career. The key is that your essay should be about IA, not UF at large. 

As a reminder, UF’s Innovation Academy is a specialized minor program with a hands-on, collaborative curriculum that operates on a spring/summer schedule. Its most recent admissions profile included a total of 644 students, which means that only about 5% of UF is also part of the Innovation Academy. 

The uniqueness of IA should be reflected in your essay: emphasize the aspects of the program that can’t be found at any other school, including UF more broadly, and explain how they align with your interests and goals. Think about the following questions to help you get started:

• Are specific programs, opportunities for interdisciplinary or experiential learning, or the Innovation minor particularly interesting to you?
• Have you participated in any projects, competitions, or courses related to innovation or entrepreneurship?
• How do you envision blending different fields of study to create something new and impactful?
• Which aspects of the IA’s curriculum, like the Innovation minor or spring/summer schedule, are relevant to your future plans and long-term goals?
• Are there particular classes, faculty, or events that excite you?
• How will the program’s resources, opportunities, and environment help you prepare for your desired career?

A strong essay will demonstrate a clear, personal connection to IA. It should show that you’ve done your research, and that your interest in the program is genuine, not that you just want another thing to put on your resume. 

Highlight specific aspects of the program that align with your goals, such as the unique spring/summer schedule, the emphasis on innovation, or the opportunity to work on real-world projects, in order to illustrate how IA will help you achieve your career goals. Be concrete about how the skills, experiences, and connections you’ll gain from IA will help you in your future profession.

It’s also a good idea to include personal anecdotes or experiences that have led you to your interest in innovation, entrepreneurship, or interdisciplinary studies. That will help your passion for this field come across as deep and authentic.

Now, let’s look into a potential, rough draft example, and explain how it could be strengthened.

“ I’m interested in joining UF’s Innovation Academy because it will give me the skills I need to succeed in marketing and brand creation. I’ve always been creative, and the program’s focus on innovation and entrepreneurship seems like a good fit to equip me with the abilities and knowledge to market tech products in a unique way. IA will provide the opportunities I’m looking for to fit my personal interests, and I’m also excited to work with other students who share my interests in marketing and technology. ”

This response is generic and lacks depth. It doesn’t explain why the Innovation Academy specifically is the right program for the writer, or how it will help her achieve her career goals, so it seems like it could apply to almost any school/program. Let’s read an improved version below.

“ My fascination with how technology shapes consumer behavior has driven me to explore innovative marketing strategies that captivate audiences, for example through the social media campaign I launched to market the homemade masks I designed during the pandemic. When I discovered UF’s Innovation Academy, I was thrilled by the program’s unique approach to blending creativity with real-world problem-solving, which aligns perfectly with my goal to use tech to develop cutting-edge marketing campaigns.

I’m particularly excited about the opportunity to work on projects through the Innovation in Action course, and present them at the Catalyst showcase. This is a chance for me to pitch my ideas to both my peers and a broader audience, which will give me a more concrete sense of how to incorporate new technology with traditional marketing approaches once I enter the professional world. ”

This response, on the other hand, clearly connects the student’s interest in marketing and technology with specific aspects of the Innovation Academy (a particular course and showcase). It demonstrates that she has not only a concrete vision for her future, but also a deep understanding of how the program will help her achieve her professional goals.

Where to Get Your University of Florida Essays Edited For Free

Do you want feedback on your University of Florida 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. 

Need feedback faster? Get a  free, nearly-instantaneous essay review  from Sage, our AI tutor and advisor. Sage will rate your essay, give you suggestions for improvement, and summarize what admissions officers would take away from your writing. Use these tools to improve your chances of acceptance to your dream school!

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FSU Honors Admission?

Hi there! I’m a rising senior in high school and I was wondering ballpark if anybody knew if my dream of FSU Honors is a reality or a far-reach. By graduation I will have taken 19 Honors Classes, 4 AP Classes, 4 passed exams AP hopefully, and 5 Dual Enrollment Classes. My current SAT score is 1940 old and 1390 new. My ACT score is 30. I want to major in Political Sciences and have above average experience in politics. Any help would be highly appreciated! Thanks for reading!

You should have a good chance of getting into the Honors Program.

@saxlady thank you!

According to the FSU website:

Also, it is impossible to get to a 4.7 W from a 3.8 UW GPA with 19 honors classes and 9 AP classes using FSU’s calculation methodology of +0.5 for an honors class and +1.0 for AP

@CaucAsianDad Sorry my wording was off I have a definite 4.7 weighted GPA and a 3.8 roughly unweighted GPA. And in my school it’s +1.0 for honors and +1.5 for AP

What your school does isn’t what FSU does. As mentioned above it’s 0.5 weight for Honors and 1.0 weight for AP.

You’ll want to recalculate your GPA to see where you stand.

You should be fine, but the overinflated GPA because your school does things differently can give you a false sense of security.

@Pasbal @CaucAsianDad ok just talked to my guidance counselor and my unweighted is 3.7

Based on the info you supplied above, I would estimate your FSU weighted GPA around a 4.3.

If you don’t get into the honors program as a freshman you can apply for lateral admission! I just got accepted, all you have to do is answer a few short questions in an application. They consider your answers and your first semester grades, so if you do well you’ll have a good chance of being accepted

@aaaammy123 when did you apply for the honors college and how long did it take to get an answer? Also how were u notified? Thanks!

Information from the Honors Program staff is that to be in the honors college, you basically have to have a University Freshman Scholar. To receive the University Freshman Scholarship requires a 30 ACT and a 4.0 FSU Weighted GPA in only core academic courses.

@rev mom… What if your gpa is like a 3.97?

Sorry @soyunchico but I didn’t ask that question.

Sorry I’m replying so late. I didn’t apply as a freshman, I only filled out the lateral application and was notified a day after final grades were posted.

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The Honors in the Major program provides students with the opportunity to learn from faculty members who are experts in their field. While many students conduct traditional research, the program also supports the creative endeavors of those students in majors such as Creative Writing, Dance, Film, Music, Studio Art, and Theatre. Upon successful completion and defense of honors thesis, students will graduate "with honors" in their major, a distinction that is announced during the commencement exercises and is cited in students' official transcripts.

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These Florida State University college application essays were written by students accepted at Florida State University. All of our sample college essays include the question prompt and the year written. Please use these sample admission essays responsibly.

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College Application Essays accepted by Florida State University

Running child anonymous, florida state university.

Although my tale is about a basketball player, it is not about a six-foot-eleven athlete whose name is splashed across the sports pages of daily newspapers and whose picture graces the tops of Nike and Adidas boxes. Rather, this is a story of one...

"Vires, Artes, Mores" Laura Jean Kepko

I am fortunate to be able to say that all of the ideas behind the words “Vires, Artes, Mores” are reflected in my life in some way.

Both of my parents have shown me strength throughout my life. My father developed Endocarditis, a bacterial...

My Life as It Reflects Artes Anonymous

Michelangelo, perhaps the most renowned painter of the Renaissance, once said: “A man paints with his brains and not with his hands.” I interpret this quote to mean that art is created with the intention to convey ideas and express emotions as...

Vires, Artes, Mores Anonymous

My yearning for the highest caliber of learning has taken me to Design and Architecture Senior High; it has been the driving force that wakes me up in the morning to prepare for an eight hour day as well as two hours of travel time, it has defined...

Vires, Artes and Mores Anonymous

“On my honor, I will do my best, to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the scout law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight.” The scout law is how I incorporate Artes,...

My Life Jordan Williams

“Jooooorrrrddddannnnn,” my mom screamed with utter fear and panic in her voice. Surprisingly, amongst all of the chaos, her voice was all that I heard. I’m not sure if I was disoriented, bewildered or just in complete shock but at that particular...

My Taste of Abroad Malak Dounia Mahjoubi

If I ever felt like an outcast, now was the time. Loose brown hair, dark eyes, and olive toned skin, my Middle Eastern features were nothing like those of the other 500 or so passengers. As the plane rapidly reached a halt, the flight attendant...

The Spelling Bee Anonymous

At 9 years old, I thought I would never have to wrap my head around any words more challenging than the one that caused me to come in second place at the county’s spelling bee. Of course, I was a fourth-grader, not a psychic, and just one year...

Growing Up Anonymous

I can’t feel my legs.

That was my first thought when I woke up in a hospital room alone. I saw red when I opened my eyes; maybe it was the memory of my blood splattered on the car ceiling. Or maybe it was the memory of seeing that bright crimson...

Intelligent Life Arese Ediae

When faced with daunting writing tasks--including this one--that call upon me to convey uniqueness and summon eloquence, I have sought the assistance of a higher source: Intelligent Life. They beckoned to me from neon-bordered pages: Leaders whose...

Quietly Fail, Loudly Win Anonymous

What qualities or unique characteristics do you possess that would allow you to contribute to the UCF community? At first, I didn’t know how it could be done. Transforming six sheets of white foam board into a ‘Warhol-esque’ abstract version of a...

Why Engineering? Anonymous

Jimi is dead. My cousin has succumbed to the interplay of factors beyond his awareness or control. I am eleven years old. I lie on the hard wooden floor of my bedroom and gaze listlessly out the window. I think of my cousin's killer. Why did a...

Community Service Essay Anonymous

Sarah - with her floral, lilac shirts, bluish, clairvoyant gaze and bass-y Southern accent - is a remarkable woman. I met her whilst serving in the Chelsea House Ministry, several years after she was rehabilitated by the program. Inspired by the...

Life Lessons from Photography Anonymous

My brother stands frozen in time, trapped in eternal wonderment as the gray horse sculpture rears above his head. An open-air church service is being held behind him, underneath the shade of another great, restless beast. A preacher dressed in a...

Master of Answers Anonymous

My dad taught me my first science lesson. He knew it did not have to start at school, but rather the minute a mind starts asking questions. That is what science has always consisted of—a curiosity forming into a question and a question being...

Eye of the Storm Anonymous

Danger looms in this idyllic, Floridian community and I, the stranger, am alert to the seamless transitions. The carbon texture of the hardening skies, the desertion of once bustling streets, the tentative schedules that allow room for imminent...

Arcadia Anonymous

I spent much of my adolescence in Arcadia; a world illumined by artificial suns. There, people eschewed costly 'real' clothing for digitally enhanced 'shifts', government propaganda was broadcast hourly onto illusionary blue skies, and one could...

The Voice of Justice Anonymous

A string of jumbled and complex gibberish filled the air as a small group of kids gathered by the swings, rambunctiously joking with one another. I stood on the outskirts of the group, feebly looking from one face to the next, feigning a smile and...

Design in Chaos Anonymous

Here, a door; pale and pink. Two boarded windows painted blue to reflect a cloudless day. Here, the field will be perpetually filled with fragrant blooms because that is how we imagine it. I feel eerily calm as I guide little Grace's hand within...

Something Wonderful Isabella Escalona

Crouched behind my yellow closet door, hearing glass shatter and walls banged, I kept hoping that something wonderful was about to happen. My parents were arguing over my father locking me in my room again. Whenever my mom was not home, he would...

The Music in My Hands Aramis Gabriel Fernandez

For as long as I can remember, my mother has been a singer in my church. I would tag along with her each week to watch the worship band rehearse, and I can recall just sitting there, absorbing the music, with my eyes always fixed on the drum set....

Learning to Adapt Isabella Escalona

I had spent the whole morning preparing to execute an Olympic worthy backflip into my aunt’s community pool. It was the summer before 6th grade; I stood at the edge, took one deep breath, and launched myself into the air. I imagined the intense...

Quiet Anonymous

"Why are you so quiet?"

"Do you speak?"

Those few words would make the color of my pale cheeks turn to the brightest shade of red because they always sounded so judgemental. To many, it's only a simple question. Steaming curiosity formed from the...

Recent Questions about Florida State University

The Question and Answer section for Florida State University is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

How does the author use figurative language to establish a tone of wonder in the first two paragraphs of the essay? Provide specific examples and explain how they provide the reader with a unique sense of the desert?

Lmfao boy you better do Mr. Masselle work before you take that L.

republic book x

I have never taken your class so I do not know what you discussed. For what its worth, "D" might be a good choice.

Socrates felt that poetry encourages us to indulge in the emotional frailties of life and thus makes us unjust. At its worst, I imagine Socrates might have picked E. I'm not an experts on this though.

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FSU’s Admissions Director explains the college essay

If your student is a rising high school senior, now is the perfect time to start working on that college essay. Many students find the essay challenging because it’s not the academic exercise they’re accustomed to. To do it well, they must discover an authentic, personal voice—and that can feel quite vulnerable.

Hege Ferguson, Director of Admissions of Florida State University, says she never loses sight of that.

“Behind every application, there is a young person who put their time and effort into sharing a part of themselves,” she said. “We have a responsibility to treat each one of their applications with much respect and humility and recognition that that is not an easy thing to do.”

“The most important thing is the academic performance of the student from 9th through 11th grade: the courses they took, the rigor, the grades they earned; the AP, honors, dual enrollment classes,” she said, adding that admissions officers will check that the rigor continues with senior year classes. “What subjects did the student immerse themselves into?”

Admissions officers also look at test scores (the ACT or SAT) and extracurriculars throughout high school, as well as employment (including its duration), internships, summer jobs and responsibilities at home.

“The value of the essay will depend on all of these other factors,” she said. “So if you have an outstanding student with high grades, rigorous curriculum, leadership, etc., there’s not a lot of emphasis on the essay because they have a lot of those factors that are indicators of good success in college.”

The essay does not matter much for the top 25 percent of applicants or the bottom 25 percent, she said. That middle 50 percent is where the essay ends up having the most weight.

“The essay is an opportunity to learn about the student beyond what we can already see on the transcript and test scores and extracurriculars. It lets them lend their voice to who they are,” she said, adding that sometimes a parent or student who is not accepted will call her office to ask why. “They will say, ‘But you don’t know me.’ And I say, ‘What did you share about yourself? Did you share what you wanted us to know about you?’ ”

Ferguson painted a picture of how a student could maximize their essay’s impact. A student whose transition to high school is rough—with a 9th grade GPA reflecting that—could use the essay to talk about that difficult transition and how they overcame it.

Want more advice about the essay? Lance Bergman, a college resource adviser at Pine View School in Sarasota, shares his tips here . Good luck!

“Last year, a young man was on the bubble, with a few wobbles with his academic grades, so I dove into his essay,” she said. “And I learned that he was homeless. He was living out of his car and sleeping on friends’ couches. He had a really traumatic home situation. For him to, one, share that, took a lot of courage. But it also put a lot of perspective on what I was seeing. And then you look at his curriculum and you marvel with what he was able to accomplish.”

Ferguson also shared some basic pointers.

• Yes, good grammar and punctuation matter, because students will do a lot of writing in college and she needs to believe they will be up for that rigor.
• Start the application process early, and follow all directions closely.
• Because email is the primary method of communication, consider getting an email address just for college applications, and be meticulously organized about each college’s requirements and deadlines.
• Finally, if you’re applying to multiple colleges (and you probably are), be sure to swap out names for the proper institution.

“That sounds so simple, but every year I get essays that have that another school’s name in there,” she said. “What it says to me is that you didn’t take the time to look over the information before you hit that send button, so maybe I’m feeling like I’m not as high on your list as I would like to be.”

Contrary to what many think, Ferguson said her focus is on trying to admit students. She also wants to admit a student body that reflects the state and its diversity. Last year, she received close to 64,000 applications for an admission class of about 6,000.

“I have the opportunity every year to read applications from these fantastic students who are just resilient, forward thinking, innovative – they’re just a really cool group of people,” she said.

“I get to see the world through their eyes and feel blessed to be part of their journey.”

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