Featured Supplemental Essay Prompt For UC Berkeley Applicants:

Student’s Selected UC Personal Insight Prompt: What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time? 350 Word Maximum.

Successful Supplemental Essay Example From Our Accepted Alumni Student:

Brought up by parents of distinct faiths, I’ve always had respect for both religions—Hinduism and Islam—and have accepted myself as an unconventional hybrid. I’ve celebrated festivals and followed dietary restrictions of the two. Serving an active role in both places of worship for years has allowed me to intermix my experiences from both to create a stronger connection with my extended community.

Not only is music my predominant passion—it is also a soulful art in both faiths. I’ve pursued a distinct form of Indian classical music, a connection to my Hindu faith. I always believed I could use my musical talent to bring my communities closer. I brought a traditionally Hindu style composition to the [Redacted] Festival, an annual arts competition hosted by the Ismaili Muslim community. Starting with slow melodic structures, I ended my presentation with a crescendo that wowed audiences.

Presenting an art from one culture to another reminded me of the responsibility I have as a hybrid: to create bridges between groups that may otherwise have boundaries.

When I speak to elders at the Ismaili Jamatkhana who recount communal violence while growing up in India, they tell me of longstanding tensions between the religions. And while talking to Hindu elders at the Temple, they describe desires for equality and hopes that the tensions will subside. I empathize with both groups, reminding them that they are not alone in feeling apprehensive—but that we are progressing toward a more accepting world.

When I mentor students who discuss experiences with biases and racial microaggressions, when I tutor students of various academic strengths, when I meet older people who need help navigating the complexities of a hand held device—these are all moments when I can create connections, foster understanding, and promote empathy.

Through reflecting upon the experiences I have as a hybrid—and exploring other cultures and working with diverse communities—I have cultivated the skill that is most meaningful to me: bridging boundaries in every space I enter.