Drew University

Please describe how academic engagement has played a role in your life in high school. (250 words or less) “Objection!” I demand, rising from my chair. The judge looks up at me. “Basis?” he questions. I look him in the eye and put on my best Law and Order lawyer face before confidently responding, “Leading … Read more Adapting to Mock Trial

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others. I look down and stare at my child-sized hands resting awkwardly on the keys and see a puzzled face staring back at me in the shiny black reflection. I squint at the music, deciphering … Read more The Music in Me

Describe a place or environment where you are perfectly content. What do you do or experience there, and why is it meaningful to you? Before I started diving, I yearned for a special place with an amazing view reachable only by a chosen few: the top of Everest, or a view of Earth from a … Read more Diving, and the Depths of Thought

Discuss an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, that marked your transition from childhood to adulthood within your culture, community, or family. We arrived at Ho Chi Minh cancer hospital for the first time, full of determination. The moment we entered the hall, a scene captured my eyes: young children (between the ages of 4 … Read more Summer 2014

Describe an influential person, piece of literature or artwork that has inspired you and describe how it has influenced you. On my dresser, hiding behind a stack of books, is a half-filled bottle of Revlon Red nail polish. I haven’t used it at least a year, not since the day I left it open on … Read more Revlon Red

An experience that has changed your life. I have been traveling since I was two weeks old. Denver is where I was born, but almost immediately after my adoption, my parents brought me to my home of 17 years, Rhode Island. I have had the fortune and privilege of having parents who love to travel, … Read more Discovery on Pine Ridge

Evaluate a significant experience, achievement, risk you have taken, or ethical dilemma you have faced and its impact on you. The thought that nearly eight hours later we would be dragging a canoe through a swamp in the dark never crossed anyone’s mind as we began to film. Clad in American Revolution-era attire, my friends … Read more Life in a Canoe

Evaluate a significant experience, achievement, risk you have taken, or ethical dilemma you have faced and its impact on you. The trip had been one of disillusionment. Thirteen Jewish schools paid for us to meet in Los Angeles for five days of service learning, yet I soon discovered that most of the participants had signed-up … Read more Awaken Los Angeles