“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.” My Family's Table I hear my mom calling me "BELLA! Ven a ayudar!" As I bound downstairs to the kitchen, the familiar smells of cilantro and tomatillo engulf me. You know how everyone has a certain "scent," but it's impossible to know your own? If I had to...

Briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (150 word limit) 4:40AM: I’m already late. I stumble downstairs, stuff a banana or two in my bag, and head out the door for morning practice. The early morning chill seeps through my spandex layers and I shiver as I think of the workout ahead. Nationals, Isabella. Do it for your boat. Winning crews row smart. Eight bodies, moving in perfect synchrony, sit up through the blinding pain shooting...

Stanford students possess an intellectual vitality. Reflect on an idea or experience that has been important to your intellectual development. (250 word limit) I felt like flying as I walked onto the Microsoft campus and scanned my shiny new employee badge to open the doors of Building 16. I knew coding was my passion from the moment I compiled my first program in APCS. Outside the classroom, I studied Java with a ravenous appetite, desperate to learn the inner workings of this...

Virtually all of Stanford's undergraduates live on campus. Write a note to your future roommate that reveals something about you or that will help your roommate -- and us -- know you better. (250 word limit) “A Working Bucket List for Isabella + Roommate: Stanford 2016” 1. Mandatory Skype session with Isabella’s three younger brothers, whose first remark will undoubtedly be a sarcastic “Isabella has friends?!”. Needless to say, I will be missing them immensely, so please be prepared to listen to many...

What matters to you, and why? (100 to 250 words) I value being a part of something bigger than myself. I value community. I value the uniqueness of each human being. I value raw vulnerability and genuine human connections. I value selflessness. Everyone has an innate human desire to live beyond themselves. The fact that so many people value selflessness speaks to the importance of this trait within society. However, one cannot live solely for others and fully thrive, unless they are...

How did you first learn about Rice University and what motivated you to apply? (250 word limit) Among thousands of other correspondence from universities, last year I received a letter in the mail from Rice with the statement “Unconventional Wisdom” across the signature owl shield. This idea resonated with me, and prompted me to actually read the pamphlet. I was amazed at how closely my own approach to learning aligned with the philosophy at Rice. I have never tried to fit...

The Committee on Admission is interested in getting to know each candidate as well as possible through the application process. The following essay question is designed to demonstrate your writing skills and facilitate our full appreciation of your unique perspective. The quality of Rice's academic life and the Residential College System are heavily influenced by the unique life experiences and cultural traditions each student brings. What personal perspective do you feel that you will contribute to life at Rice? (500 word...