This particular application essay question invites applicants to discuss a time when they experienced personal growth. This growth can be the result of a realization, an accomplishment, or an event that led to a new understanding of oneself or the world. For example, an applicant might describe how volunteering at a homeless shelter reshaped their perspective on socioeconomic inequality.
Its value lies in its potential to reveal an applicant’s capacity for self-reflection and learning. It allows admissions committees to assess how a student internalizes experiences and adapts as a result. Historically, prompts encouraging introspection have been included to gain a deeper understanding of an applicant beyond academic achievements and standardized test scores, offering a glimpse into their maturity and adaptability.