Personal insight

Introduction

The personal insight questions are about getting to know you better — your life experience, interests, ambitions and inspirations. Think of it as your interview with the admissions office. Be open. Be reflective. Find your individual voice and express it.

There are no right or wrong answers to these questions. They are about you and your life thus far.

Understanding your UC application and privacy

Your application — including your responses to the personal insight questions — may be reviewed by a mandated reporter, an individual who is required by state law to report known or suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to Child Protective Services or the police. If you have questions about how this policy might impact you, please contact your school counselor.

A few tips:

• Present your information and ideas in a focused, thoughtful manner. Making a list of accomplishments, activities, awards or work will lessen the impact of your words.
• Use specific, concrete examples to support the points you want to make. Focus your examples on the present and near past.
• Tell us about yourself. We want to know about your personal triumphs or challenges, leadership opportunities and experiences outside the classroom.
• Use your own voice. Your answers should reflect your ideas and be written by you alone. Use "I" and "my" statements in your responses.
• Try to relax. There are many pieces of information we consider in reviewing your application; an admission decision will not be based on your responses alone.