The crackling bonfire forms several shadows on the snow. All of the Norse gods have joined me at the feast. Lady Frigg, goddess of love, looks stunning in her white lace gown. Thor, the mighty god of thunder, is busy fist-fighting with the war god Tyr. Heimdall, the god of light, is dazzling everyone with his brilliance. "Let's have some music!" shouts Bragi, the god of poetry. I pick up my guitar and strum the melody of the poem HÃ...

How did you first learn about Rice University and what motivated you to apply? (250 word limit) "Kshitiz! Kshitiz!" My future life-long friends shout my name to welcome me at the O-week. Having always been a part of small closely-knit communities, I feel at home in my residential college. In class, I thrive on close interaction with world-class professors who take a personal interest in my education. Rice's Honor Code infuses my education with academic integrity and freedom, which I value...