When I signed up for nonfiction, it was not because I was drawn to journalism, but rather because of what it would demand of me - self improvement. Journalism encompassed all the skills I considered my weakest. Five paragraph essays had served me well from fifth to ninth grade, but were too long and analytical for the likes of journalism. I could hardly lead an in-class presentation, let alone lead an interview. I wanted to learn how to communicate effectively...

WUSTL did not have any additional essays

I think what ended up pushing me over the top was that I filled a relatively unique niche in applicants- a student...

I was fortunate enough to have established deep relationships with three of my junior year teachers, so asking them for recommendations made perfect sense because I knew that they knew me well and liked me. If you don't have a particularly strong relationship with any...

I was dumb and didn't apply for merit scholarships at Wash U because, after being rejected ED from Rice, I was completely sure I wouldn't get into Wash U. So, never assume your application will be...

When colleges say that they don't require an interview and...

I went back and forth between UCSD and Wash U essentially up until the last minute. I eliminated Smith for being too far in the middle of nowhere and for not having as much of a science focus as I wanted, but I still believe Smith is an excellent institution. No matter where I went, I'd have had to take out loans of similar amounts, so I wasn't basing my decision on...

My ultimate goal is to work in...