Suggested Personal Statement Topics

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Describe an opportunity you have had to learn from or to teach someone different from yourself. What did you learn from this experience? How will the experience help you to be successful in your college career and beyond?
Describe an experience or event that has allowed you to demonstrate leadership and/or that illustrates your service to others (family, school, community). What was most meaningful to you about your experience? How will this experience benefit you at Colorado State University, and how might your experience enrich our campus community?
Colorado State University is committed to global citizenship and environmental stewardship. Describe an experience or event where you exemplified either or both of these qualities or that allowed you to take a relevant leadership role. What effect(s) did the experience have on you?
Describe an obstacle or challenge facing you, your family, your school or your community. What have you done (or what do you plan to do) to address this challenge? How does Colorado State University fit into your plan?
Identify a book, song, or movie that changed your life; what was the nature of the impact it has had on you, and how does it inform who you are today? How might it shape who you will be at Colorado State University?

Thoughtful content and careful attention to quality writing can be compelling in admission and scholarship decisions.
Keep your essay focused on the topic you have chosen; this demonstrates your ability to organize your thoughts.
This is not a writing sample or academic paper, it’s an opportunity for us to gain insight into how you can contribute to, and benefit from, our community. Make it personal by conveying information specific to your experiences and perspectives.
Be sure the words are your own and (appropriately) reflect your personality. We want to get to know YOU, so use a “voice” that’s authentic.
Plagiarism is grounds for immediate rejection of your application.
Consider the suggested topics a way for you to get to know us and what we value as you assess whether CSU is a good fit for you.