write an essay about your interest

How to Write an Essay about Your Interests

Are you looking for a quick and simple way to write an essay about your interests? Then you’ve found the perfect tutorial for you!

Writing such an essay can be fun, but it can sometimes become challenging if you’re unsure how to approach it. So, in this tutorial, I will show you how to write an essay about your interests in five simple steps. We’ll write an example of such an essay, too.

Let’s dive in!

Step 1. Plan the word count for each paragraph.

Planning the word count for each of your essay’s paragraphs will help you organize your ideas, which makes it simpler and quicker for you to write any essay.

Essays have three important parts:

The introductory paragraph
Three body paragraphs
The concluding paragraph

So, for example, if you need to write a 300-word essay, you can follow the diagram below to distribute 300 words across the five paragraphs in your essay:

Step 2. Choose your essay’s main idea and its supporting points.

Before you start writing any essay, you need to come up with a main idea that will overarch your three supporting points.

To do this, you can think of three distinct interests that you want to talk about in your essay. Then, think about what they have in common. Do these interests help you relieve stress? Do they help you find a balance in your life?

Whatever you choose will be your essay’s thesis . It will be your basis — the main point.

For example, we can say, “My interests offer me a creative outlet.” This is enough for now because you’ll better understand how to expand it in the next step.

Next, you’ll divide the thesis using the Power of Three to support your claim.

The Power of Three will help you divide any essay’s main idea into three supporting points. It’s a three-part structure that helps you write your body paragraphs .

Let’s try it for our example with the thesis: “My interests offer me a creative outlet.”

I like drawing .
I like dancing .
I like scrapbooking .

Great! Now we’re ready for the next step.

Step 3. Write the introductory paragraph.

Writing an essay usually starts with the introductory paragraph . Here are the important components you must include:

The introduction , the first sentence, catches your readers’ attention and makes them want to know about your interests. The rest will be your thesis and its three supporting points.

Let’s look at an example:

Introductory Paragraph

“Having interests allows us to pursue our passions outside of work or school and engage in activities that help us relax, relieve stress, and stay happy. In my case, my interests offer me a creative outlet. Drawing has always been one of my passions since childhood, which is a great way to express myself visually. I also like dancing, which allows me to express myself through music and movement. And I also like scrapbooking, which helps me preserve my thoughts and memories in a creative and meaningful way.”

Note how it goes from general to specific . It started with a general statement, the introduction, followed by the thesis, and its three supporting points.

Step 4. Write the three body paragraphs.

After writing your introductory paragraph, you will write the body paragraphs that contain your main idea’s supporting points. Here’s a structure you can follow to make things simpler for you:

As you can see, writing a body paragraph for any essay starts with a topic sentence . Then, you will explain it briefly and illustrate it using example/s .

Paragraph 1

“I like drawing because it is a great way to express myself visually. With drawing, I can communicate my thoughts, ideas, and emotions. When I draw, I can convey a message without using words and express myself in a way that is both creative and meaningful. I like drawing whenever I feel upset or depressed. For instance, I drew an elaborate doodle when I felt anxious and stressed at work yesterday.”

In this body paragraph, the first sentence serves as the topic sentence, which gives context to our body paragraph.

The following sentences explain the supporting point. The rest of the paragraph illustrates the topic sentence with examples.

Paragraph 2

“Dancing is a creative outlet I enjoy. It allows me to express myself through music and movement. It also helps me feel in touch with my emotions and connect with myself and the world around me. When I danced to a slow and emotional song last Sunday, I felt like I was releasing my sadness and expressing myself through my movements.”

Paragraph 3

“I like scrapbooking because it allows me to express my creativity and preserve my thoughts and memories. It is a therapeutic activity that helps me relax, relive memories, and tell a story through pictures. For example, I took photos of beautiful scenery and my family when we hiked a mountain last year. When we returned home, I spent hours selecting the best pictures and choosing colorful papers, stickers, and embellishments to create stunning scrapbook pages.”

Like our first body paragraph, paragraphs 2 and 3 follow the same structure, which starts from a general statement and proceeds to more specific points.

Step 5. Write the concluding paragraph.

Restating what you’ve already stated in your introductory paragraph using different words is the simplest and quickest way to write a concluding paragraph.

It is a time-proven method, so it always works!

Let’s try it for our sample essay:

Concluding Paragraph

“Engaging in interests outside work or school can help us stay happy. For me, drawing, dancing, and scrapbooking are interests that allow me to express myself in a creative and meaningful way. Whether I am drawing to communicate ideas, dancing to connect with my emotions, or scrapbooking to preserve memories, my interests help me relax, unwind, and find a balance.”

Note how we only restated the points already made in the introductory paragraph, but they are worded differently, which makes writing the concluding paragraph pretty simple.

And that’s it! I hope this tutorial has been helpful.

Now go ahead and write a brilliant essay about your interests!

Tutor Phil is an e-learning professional who helps adult learners finish their degrees by teaching them academic writing skills.

Writing a Great Academic Interest Essay (with Examples)

Admissions officer reviewed by Ben Bousquet, M.Ed Former Vanderbilt University

Written by Kylie Kistner, MA Former Willamette University Admissions

Key Takeaway

What is an academic interest supplemental essay.

Academic Interest essays are a kind of supplemental essay . They ask you to expand on one of your primary academic interests. Since you’re going to college to be a student, colleges ask Academic Interest supplemental essay questions because they want to get a sense of your intellectual curiosity.

In fact, Academic Interest essays are one of the main places in your application for you to geek out about the topics you’re most passionate about.

Admissions officers want to know about the questions that keep you awake at night, the problems you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and solve, and the conversations you can’t wait to partake in.

But don’t worry. When a school asks you to describe your academic interest, you don’t have to stress about having your entire life planned out. If you say, “I want to create a robot to clean up litter in the ocean,” nobody is going to come knocking on your door when you graduate looking for a robot.

Your main goal when writing your Academic Interest supplementals? Show that you’ll be a great contributor to the learning community on campus.

In this post, we’ll walk you through how to do just that.

Let’s start by looking at a few examples of what Academic Interest prompts look like.

1: Stanford University

The Stanford community is deeply curious and driven to learn in and out of the classroom. Reflect on an idea or experience that makes you genuinely excited about learning. (100 to 250 words)

2: Pomona College

Academic Interest Statement: What do you love about the subject(s) you selected as potential major(s)? If undecided, share more about one of your academic passions.

3: Brandeis University

The Brandeis community is a diverse group of critical thinkers defined by their ability to dive deeper into their learning by questioning, analyzing, evaluating, creating, critiquing and seeking other perspectives. Share an example of how you have used your own critical thinking skills on a specific subject, project, idea or interest.

These examples should help you identify Academic Interest prompts when you come across them.

Now let’s move on to discussing three strategies you can use to answer any Academic Interest prompt colleges throw at you.

Academic Interest Essay Strategy

Great essays are strategic essays. Since supplemental essays exist to supplement the rest of your essays (like your personal statement ), activities, and letters of recommendation, it’s important to write them with intention. These three strategies will help you write your Academic Interest essays with an eye toward showing admissions officers how your intellectual curiosity makes you a perfect fit for the intellectual community at the school in question.

Write about an academic interest that aligns with what the school has to offer.

It doesn’t make much sense to write about your undying passion for pursuing a career in linguistics if you’re applying to a school that doesn’t have a linguistics program. Be sure you're doing your research on the school.

Remember that your supplemental essays exist to showcase how well you fit into a school’s academic, social, and cultural communities. While the academic interest you choose doesn’t have to exactly match up with something specific at the school like a Why this Major essay , it’s a good idea to choose an interest that can support your case for academic fit.

Be specific.

Specificity is your friend in most essays but especially in Academic Interest essays. As an admissions officer, one of the most memorable Academic Interest essays I read was about the history of corsets. It doesn’t get much more specific than that!

In a similar way, you should choose something specific to write about based on what the prompt is asking you to do. Whatever your intellectual niche is, don’t be afraid to be explicit about what it is that captivates you. Your goal is to be as specific as is necessary to bring an admissions officer into your intellectual world, give them a look around, and send them on their way with a new understanding of what you care about and why it’s important.

Reflect on the significance of your academic interest.

Academic Interest essays succeed when you demonstrate why the topic is important to you and to the world.

While these supplementals should be specific, they aren’t an opportunity for you to write a treatise on an obscure math concept or insect species. Instead, your Academic Interest essays should make it clear why your interest matters, to whom, and why.

Showing these connections lets an admissions officer know that you’re able to see the big picture and draw connections between academic interests and real-world problems.

How to write an Academic Interest supplemental essay

Alright. With those three strategies in mind, it’s time to get to writing.

Step 1: Read the prompt.

There are lots of ways colleges ask you to write about an academic interest. Take a look at the examples above. The Stanford prompt says that you can reflect on “an idea or experience,” but the Pomona prompt only asks for an “academic passion.” The Brandeis one is different yet, asking you to focus specifically on critical thinking and giving you the freedom to talk about a number of ways your academic interest has manifested.

The wording of the prompt will affect the options you have to choose from, so be sure to read it carefully.

Step 2: Decide on an academic interest.

After you’ve narrowed down your options based on the prompt, next you have to think about your application strategy.

If you’re applying to a particular college major , you should choose an academic interest that is related to your preferred major to emphasize your intellectual curiosity for that subject. Alternatively, you could pick an unrelated academic interest that shows your interdisciplinary inclinations (but that will probably be less effective). What you decide will depend on what kind of school you’re applying to and what other strengths you’ve strewn throughout the rest of your application narrative .

Step 3: Outline & Write

I. Introduction: Hook your reader into your topic with your first sentence, and expand on your academic interest throughout your introduction.

II. Body: Provide more details and introduce your reader to the problem, question, puzzle, or implications that keep you intrigued. III. Body II: Connect your academic interest to an activity you've been involved in. Use this essay as an opportunity to show a connection between your resume and your academic interests.

IV. Conclusion: Reflect on why your interest matters and why your interest in the subject is personally meaningful

Academic Interest Supplemental Essay Mistakes

There are two frequent mistakes applicants make when writing Academic Interest essays, and they typically happen when students aren’t paying enough attention to their application strategy.

Being too academic or too personal.

All college essays are tricky because they require you to balance a number of things. Academic Interest essays are no different. They are a balancing act between intellectual curiosity and personal meaning.

The first mistake applicants make is failing to find this balance. Too much or too little of either, and your essay comes across as too academic or too personal.

You don’t want to be the student who rambles on about a math proof and leaves your admissions officer without any sense of meaning to hang on to. Similarly, you don’t want to dive too deep into meaning and completely neglect to address the details of what interests you. Finding balance is essential.

Being too general.

So you want to “solve the world’s problems” or “find practical solutions to climate change.” That’s great! But when it comes to Academic Interest essays, the key is specificity. Anyone can have general interests in any topic. It’s the niche and particular academic interests that set applicants apart.

Focusing on one very specific interest tells admissions officers that you’re committed enough to your interest to have done thorough research on it. Your specificity shows familiarity with and dedication to a topic—both things that all colleges look for in their students.

If you’re too general, you run the risk of your Academic Interest essay not actually serving you. Too vague, and it’ll be like you didn’t write the essay at all.

So rather than trying to capture all of your interests or solve all of the world’s problems at once, hone in on something that you just can’t stop thinking about. Your future self (and your admissions officers) will thank you.

Academic Interest Supplemental Essay Examples

Example: what do you want to be when you grow up.

Brown: Brown’s Open Curriculum allows students to explore broadly while also diving deeply into their academic pursuits. Tell us about any academic interests that excite you, and how you might use the Open Curriculum to pursue them while also embracing topics with which you are unfamiliar. (200-250 words)

"How was school and what do you want to be when you grow up today?"

My mom asked me this two-part question every day when she picked me up in second grade.

One day I wanted to be a chemist because of an episode of Bill Nye the Science Guy. The next, I wanted to be a teacher like Miss Frizzle, or a paleontologist because of the dinosaur episode we'd just watched. Or maybe I wanted to produce cartoons for kids.

The idea of really learning something and trying to master it has always excited me. My only issue was that seemingly every subject was the next shiny thing I wanted to learn.

Brown's Open Curriculum is uniquely suited to satiate my broad interests–many of which I have maintained since I was a kid. I still love chemistry and have had the privilege of experiencing an advanced academic lab at UVA studying infectious diseases. I will certainly explore chemistry courses and seek out more research opportunities. I know I want to study abroad, and I'm most interested in the “Dinosaurs, Dry Bones, and Digs" course and trip that Brown archaeology professor Schultz hosts each spring to search for new dinosaur fossils in Brazil. Producing my school’s senior film with the help of my advanced filmmaking team has prompted me to also try on modern culture and media coursework at Brown and participate in the Campus Reel competition in the fall.

While my academic interests have evolved since I was seven, I look to college as a time to explore fields of interest, discover new ones, and maybe after four years have a better answer to that question, “what do I want to be when I grow up?”

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Hobbies and Interests Essay Writing Strategy: Things To Focus On

EssayEdge > Blog > Hobbies and Interests Essay Writing Strategy: Things To Focus On

Writing an essay about your interests is a super exciting thing. This topic is very wide open. You could choose to write about an extracurricular activity, job, hobby, or just about anything that involves a high level of interest and dedication. Most of our suggestions for Accomplishments essays also apply here, especially refraining from repeating information found elsewhere in your application and not including a laundry list of academic, extracurricular, and work successes.

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Knowledge Base

The Beginner's Guide to Writing an Essay | Steps & Examples

An academic essay is a focused piece of writing that develops an idea or argument using evidence, analysis, and interpretation.

There are many types of essays you might write as a student. The content and length of an essay depends on your level, subject of study, and course requirements. However, most essays at university level are argumentative — they aim to persuade the reader of a particular position or perspective on a topic.

The essay writing process consists of three main stages:

Preparation: Decide on your topic, do your research, and create an essay outline.
Writing : Set out your argument in the introduction, develop it with evidence in the main body, and wrap it up with a conclusion.
Revision: Check your essay on the content, organization, grammar, spelling, and formatting of your essay.

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Essay writing process, preparation for writing an essay, writing the introduction, writing the main body, writing the conclusion, essay checklist, lecture slides, frequently asked questions about writing an essay.

The writing process of preparation, writing, and revisions applies to every essay or paper, but the time and effort spent on each stage depends on the type of essay .

For example, if you’ve been assigned a five-paragraph expository essay for a high school class, you’ll probably spend the most time on the writing stage; for a college-level argumentative essay , on the other hand, you’ll need to spend more time researching your topic and developing an original argument before you start writing.

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Before you start writing, you should make sure you have a clear idea of what you want to say and how you’re going to say it. There are a few key steps you can follow to make sure you’re prepared:

Understand your assignment: What is the goal of this essay? What is the length and deadline of the assignment? Is there anything you need to clarify with your teacher or professor?
Define a topic: If you’re allowed to choose your own topic , try to pick something that you already know a bit about and that will hold your interest.
Do your research: Read primary and secondary sources and take notes to help you work out your position and angle on the topic. You’ll use these as evidence for your points.
Come up with a thesis: The thesis is the central point or argument that you want to make. A clear thesis is essential for a focused essay—you should keep referring back to it as you write.
Create an outline: Map out the rough structure of your essay in an outline . This makes it easier to start writing and keeps you on track as you go.

Once you’ve got a clear idea of what you want to discuss, in what order, and what evidence you’ll use, you’re ready to start writing.

The introduction sets the tone for your essay. It should grab the reader’s interest and inform them of what to expect. The introduction generally comprises 10–20% of the text.

1. Hook your reader

The first sentence of the introduction should pique your reader’s interest and curiosity. This sentence is sometimes called the hook. It might be an intriguing question, a surprising fact, or a bold statement emphasizing the relevance of the topic.

Let’s say we’re writing an essay about the development of Braille (the raised-dot reading and writing system used by visually impaired people). Our hook can make a strong statement about the topic:

The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability.

2. Provide background on your topic

Next, it’s important to give context that will help your reader understand your argument. This might involve providing background information, giving an overview of important academic work or debates on the topic, and explaining difficult terms. Don’t provide too much detail in the introduction—you can elaborate in the body of your essay.

3. Present the thesis statement

Next, you should formulate your thesis statement— the central argument you’re going to make. The thesis statement provides focus and signals your position on the topic. It is usually one or two sentences long. The thesis statement for our essay on Braille could look like this:

As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness.

4. Map the structure

In longer essays, you can end the introduction by briefly describing what will be covered in each part of the essay. This guides the reader through your structure and gives a preview of how your argument will develop.

The invention of Braille marked a major turning point in the history of disability. The writing system of raised dots used by blind and visually impaired people was developed by Louis Braille in nineteenth-century France. In a society that did not value disabled people in general, blindness was particularly stigmatized, and lack of access to reading and writing was a significant barrier to social participation. The idea of tactile reading was not entirely new, but existing methods based on sighted systems were difficult to learn and use. As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness. This essay begins by discussing the situation of blind people in nineteenth-century Europe. It then describes the invention of Braille and the gradual process of its acceptance within blind education. Subsequently, it explores the wide-ranging effects of this invention on blind people’s social and cultural lives.

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The body of your essay is where you make arguments supporting your thesis, provide evidence, and develop your ideas. Its purpose is to present, interpret, and analyze the information and sources you have gathered to support your argument.

Length of the body text

The length of the body depends on the type of essay. On average, the body comprises 60–80% of your essay. For a high school essay, this could be just three paragraphs, but for a graduate school essay of 6,000 words, the body could take up 8–10 pages.

Paragraph structure

To give your essay a clear structure , it is important to organize it into paragraphs . Each paragraph should be centered around one main point or idea.

That idea is introduced in a topic sentence . The topic sentence should generally lead on from the previous paragraph and introduce the point to be made in this paragraph. Transition words can be used to create clear connections between sentences.

After the topic sentence, present evidence such as data, examples, or quotes from relevant sources. Be sure to interpret and explain the evidence, and show how it helps develop your overall argument.

Lack of access to reading and writing put blind people at a serious disadvantage in nineteenth-century society. Text was one of the primary methods through which people engaged with culture, communicated with others, and accessed information; without a well-developed reading system that did not rely on sight, blind people were excluded from social participation (Weygand, 2009). While disabled people in general suffered from discrimination, blindness was widely viewed as the worst disability, and it was commonly believed that blind people were incapable of pursuing a profession or improving themselves through culture (Weygand, 2009). This demonstrates the importance of reading and writing to social status at the time: without access to text, it was considered impossible to fully participate in society. Blind people were excluded from the sighted world, but also entirely dependent on sighted people for information and education.

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The conclusion is the final paragraph of an essay. It should generally take up no more than 10–15% of the text . A strong essay conclusion :

Returns to your thesis
Ties together your main points
Shows why your argument matters

A great conclusion should finish with a memorable or impactful sentence that leaves the reader with a strong final impression.

What not to include in a conclusion

To make your essay’s conclusion as strong as possible, there are a few things you should avoid. The most common mistakes are:

Including new arguments or evidence
Undermining your arguments (e.g. “This is just one approach of many”)
Using concluding phrases like “To sum up…” or “In conclusion…”

Braille paved the way for dramatic cultural changes in the way blind people were treated and the opportunities available to them. Louis Braille’s innovation was to reimagine existing reading systems from a blind perspective, and the success of this invention required sighted teachers to adapt to their students’ reality instead of the other way around. In this sense, Braille helped drive broader social changes in the status of blindness. New accessibility tools provide practical advantages to those who need them, but they can also change the perspectives and attitudes of those who do not.

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Checklist: Essay

My essay follows the requirements of the assignment (topic and length ).

My introduction sparks the reader’s interest and provides any necessary background information on the topic.

My introduction contains a thesis statement that states the focus and position of the essay.

I use paragraphs to structure the essay.

I use topic sentences to introduce each paragraph.

Each paragraph has a single focus and a clear connection to the thesis statement.

I make clear transitions between paragraphs and ideas.

My conclusion doesn’t just repeat my points, but draws connections between arguments.

I don’t introduce new arguments or evidence in the conclusion.

I have given an in-text citation for every quote or piece of information I got from another source.

I have included a reference page at the end of my essay, listing full details of all my sources.

My citations and references are correctly formatted according to the required citation style .

My essay has an interesting and informative title.

I have followed all formatting guidelines (e.g. font, page numbers, line spacing).

Your essay meets all the most important requirements. Our editors can give it a final check to help you submit with confidence.

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An essay is a focused piece of writing that explains, argues, describes, or narrates.

In high school, you may have to write many different types of essays to develop your writing skills.

Academic essays at college level are usually argumentative : you develop a clear thesis about your topic and make a case for your position using evidence, analysis and interpretation.

The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents your topic and thesis statement , a body containing your in-depth analysis and arguments, and a conclusion wrapping up your ideas.

The structure of the body is flexible, but you should always spend some time thinking about how you can organize your essay to best serve your ideas.

Your essay introduction should include three main things, in this order:

An opening hook to catch the reader’s attention.
Relevant background information that the reader needs to know.
A thesis statement that presents your main point or argument.

The length of each part depends on the length and complexity of your essay .

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

It gives your writing direction and focus.
It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

A topic sentence is a sentence that expresses the main point of a paragraph . Everything else in the paragraph should relate to the topic sentence.

At college level, you must properly cite your sources in all essays , research papers , and other academic texts (except exams and in-class exercises).

Add a citation whenever you quote , paraphrase , or summarize information or ideas from a source. You should also give full source details in a bibliography or reference list at the end of your text.

The exact format of your citations depends on which citation style you are instructed to use. The most common styles are APA , MLA , and Chicago .

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Common App Essay Prompt 1: Background, Identity, Interest, or Talent

Jared hobson.

July 6, 2023

common app essay prompt 1 background identity interest talent

Write The Common App Essay Prompt 1 – Background, Identity, Interest, or Talent

Common App Essay Prompt 1 reads like this: , “Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.”

Essay Questions on the Common App

How will you decide whether this is the right prompt for you to address on your Common Application essay?

As high school seniors prepare to apply to college, they’re faced with the daunting task of writing an essay that will capture the attention of admissions officers and set them apart from the thousands of other applicants. Crafting a compelling narrative around their background story can be a powerful tool for students to showcase their individuality and leave a lasting impression on the admissions committee. The first prompt on the Common Application asks students to reflect on a various aspects of who they are as a person.

Actually, the prompt asks you to reflect on one of four different aspects of what makes you special: your background, your identity, and interest, or a talent.

As a reminder, here’s how Common App Prompt 1 reads:

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

To help you better understand how to address this prompt, I’ve highlighted the most important words in these two short sentences. I’m going to address each below—not in the order of their appearance—but in order of their importance.

Defining Key Terms in Common App Essay Prompt 1

College admissions people know that some people have an interesting background that is the source of their identity. When discussing your background in your college application essay, it’s important to keep in mind that this is a part of your humanity that you may not have chosen or may not be able to change. This background can be cultural, ethnic, familial, medical, physical, economic, or any other circumstances that affect their lives. There may be elements of this personal background or history that have shaped who you are today and can be acknowledged in your essay.

When writing about your background in response to the Common Application Essay, it’s important to consider how these experiences have shaped you as a person. Also, recognize that not everyone has the same experiences and opportunities. Your background may have presented you with unique challenges or obstacles to overcome, and this can demonstrate your resilience and adaptability. Sharing your background will provide insight into your personality, your values, and your goals.

By reflecting on your experiences, you may discover strengths or skills that you didn’t realize you had, or recognize areas where you still have room for growth. Ultimately, your background is a part of who you are, and by embracing and sharing it, you can show the admissions committee how you have been shaped by your unique background and what you can bring to their campus.

Your identity may be related to your background. However, your identity is different from your circumstances or history. Rather, your identity is how you define yourself. Certainly your background may be important, and may be one aspect of your identity. But if you want to focus on your identity for this prompt, you need to think about how you present yourself to the world. Perhaps your identity is something completely different from your background or history. We define our own identity, but our background can be how others see us.

So, if you want to focus on your identity for this prompt, ask yourself some questions. Who are you? What are you? What motivates you and drives you forward in life? How do you see yourself in the world? Your answers to these questions can reveal a lot about your character and the things that are most important to you. Take the time to reflect on what makes you who you are and use that understanding to craft a compelling and authentic essay that showcases your individuality.

To take it further, how does your identity demonstrate or determine other aspects of you as a person.

How does your identity reflect your values and beliefs? How does your identity guide your decisions and actions? By deepening your description of how your identity is important, you can take full advantage of this prompt and communicate who you are in a clear and compelling way.

An interest is something that captures your attention and holds your focus. It could be a hobby, a passion, a cause, or even an academic subject that you find fascinating. Your interest can show how you spend your free time, what you care about, and even how you approach challenges and opportunities. This is your chance to showcase your personality and individuality in a way your background, identity, or talent may not.

Even if your interest is not particularly unique, what’s important is that you are able to demonstrate how this interest has shaped you as a person and contributed to your growth and development. Think about what your interests say about you. Often, pursuing an interest requires dedication, commitment, and practice. By consistently engaging in an activity you’re passionate about, maybe you’ve learned discipline and time management.

Use this as an opportunity to reveal your personality and individuality beyond what may be listed on your resume. It’s important to keep in mind that your Common App Essay should add something new and unique to your application. You want to provide insight into your passions that aren’t already indicated on your application. Instead, consider writing about an interest that most people would not know you have. Demonstrate how this interest has shaped you as a person and provides insight into your unique character.

A talent is a natural ability or skill you possess in a certain area. This is similar to an interest, but it usually entails developing some sort of expertise or ability. It could be anything from music to math, writing to sports.

Perhaps you have taught yourself origami or how to knit—and you have developed this into a talent that allows you tomake things for your family and friends. Perhaps you have become excellent at woodworking or calligraphy, and have used this talent in some sort of interesting way. Your talent is something that sets you apart and showcases your unique abilities. However, just like with interests, it’s important to remember that your Common App Essay should add something new and different to your application.

When writing about your talent you want to be sure it’s a significant part of your identity or has had a profound impact on your life. Your essay should provide insight into the unique perspective and personal qualities that have been developed through the pursuit of your talent.

In choosing the focus of your essay, whether it be your background, identity, interest, or talent, it is crucial to consider its inherent meaning and significance to you.

For instance, while your background as someone who grew up in a small town may hold certain nostalgic memories and experiences, it may not hold the same level of personal meaning as your profound interest in military aircraft or prestidigitation. These other aspects of your humanity may be better vehicles to reveal unique aspects of your character and aspirations than to describe the experiences and memories associated with growing up in a small town.

Similarly, you might possess a unique talent like wiggling your ears, which undoubtedly showcases a delightful quirkiness. However, the true depth of meaning may lie within your identity as a jazz musician. It is through music that you find solace, self-expression, and a profound connection to yourself and others. This identity as a jazz musician will encapsulate the essence of who you are profoundly more than your ear-wiggling talent.

The key lies in identifying the specific background, identity, interest or talent that holds the most profound meaning and impact on your life. It’s important to recognize the intrinsic importance and significance of the chosen focus. By selecting the most meaningful element, you lay the foundation for an essay that resonates with true authenticity and leaves a lasting impression on the admissions officer.

When it comes to crafting a compelling Common Application Essay, the importance of storytelling cannot be overstated. Note that the last word of the prompt requests that you share a story . So even in identifying the background, identity, interest, or talent that helps your reader to understand the “real you,” your essay will be considerably strengthened if you are able to relay an anecdote or short vignette that illustrates this key attribute about yourself.

The story you share in your essay is important, but it’s important to remember that it’s only the jumping off point. It’s the springboard for the reflection that comes next. While this prompt asks for the story at the end, it’s likely that you’ll tell the story at the beginning of your essay. However, it’s the reflection on that story that will truly make your essay stand out.

Your story acts as a starting point in the essay, helping to shed light on the core significance of the chosen background, identity, interest, or talent. It allows the reader to understand why this aspect of your life is important and why they should be interested in learning more about it. The story serves as a catalyst, moving the essay forward and creating a foundation for a deeper exploration of how the chosen item has influenced your personal growth, values, or aspirations.

Your story doesn’t have to be dramatic or life-changing to be effective. It can be a small moment that had a big impact on you, or a series of events that taught you an important lesson. What matters is that it is personal to you and highlights something meaningful about who you are.

When brainstorming for your essay, take some time to reflect on your life experiences and think about the stories that stand out to you. Remember that it should have a clear beginning, middle, and end, allowing you to craft a cohesive narrative. By incorporating a well-structured story into your essay, you can illuminate the significance and impact of your chosen background, identity, interest, or talent. This understanding fosters a deeper appreciation for your unique perspective and cultivates a meaningful connection with your essay.

Incomplete Without it

Incomplete . This word carries significant weight in the context of your application. If your background or story does not truly contribute to shaping who you are, then perhaps your application can be considered “complete” without this particular narrative. In such cases, you should then be looking at other prompts for inspiration. If your background or story does not really help to shape your humanity, then perhaps your application is “complete” without this story. You should then be looking at other prompts for inspiration.

Similarly, this prompt offers you an opportunity to tell a story about yourself that is not related to your academic record or your primary extracurricular accomplishments. If you find that your response to this prompt is a restating or an amplification of something that is already found on your application, consider writing about something else.

For example, if you are an American attending a high school in Norway, your admissions officer will see that you are an American citizen, that you lived 12 years in the US before moving to Norway, and that you attended a Norwegian secondary school. If you want to write about growing up in Norway, be sure that you are providing information that captures your background or identity in a way that goes beyond your passport, visa status, and the location of your high school.

Similarly, if you have been captain of the debate team and won numerous tournaments, then you might not want to highlight your “interest” in debate in your essay. Instead, tell admissions something meaningful about yourself that they cannot see from reading the activity section of your application (and, perhaps, the recommendation letter from your debate coach).

The purpose of this essay prompt is to provide an opportunity for you to bring forth something fresh and distinctive to your application. You want to use your essay to bring something new to your application—something that is not already evident in the other elements (transcript, recommendations, honors, activities, and the like). The focus of this essay, then, should be something that is meaningful to you but that is not obvious.

Application forms often capture details such as ethnicity, hometown, and important activities, so it is crucial to go beyond these surface-level facts and reflect on what truly allows an admissions officer to authentically “KNOW” you. What sets you apart goes beyond these surface-level facts. What is the “hidden” information that admissions wouldn’t see unless you addressed it?

This prompt serves as an invitation to unveil the hidden layers of your humanity, illuminating the experiences, insights, and introspection that cannot be captured through your demographic information or checklist of achievements. The pivot of the essay should be something that reveals something personal or unusual about you that helps the reader put you in a new perspective, or that brings to light a hidden truth about you that will give context to the rest of your application.

Common App Essay Prompt 1 Overview

In choosing the focus of this prompt, whether it be your background, identity, interest, or talent, it is paramount to consider its inherent meaning and significance to you. This will ensure that your essay delves deep into the core aspects that define your unique journey and experiences.

Your essay should showcase your unique perspectives, values, and beliefs that have made you who you are today, in a clear and understandable way. Use your story as a jumping off point for your reflection.

As you embark on this writing endeavor, keep in mind that the goal of this essay is to bring something new and meaningful to your application, something that helps the reader understand you better and highlights your individuality. Your application is incomplete without this aspect—whether it’s your background, identity, interest, or talent—that contributes significantly to shaping who you are.

In our next post, we’ll be discussing the second prompt which explores a topic that many of us try to avoid but inevitably encounter: failure .

Essay Ideas About A Background, Identity, Interest, or Talent That Worked

Through our extensive experience working with countless students, we have seen many captivating essays. These narratives showcase the profound impact of personal experiences, offering a deeper understanding of their perspective. The essays below exemplify how individuals skillfully incorporate their background, identity, interests, or talent to create compelling narratives.

This example exemplifies a student’s profound interest in magic, crafting a story of resilience and self-acceptance. Their essay reveals how their passion for magic is an integral part of their identity , making their application feel incomplete without sharing this significant aspect of their life. The student demonstrates the significance of embracing personal passions and finding fulfillment in activities that may be deemed unconventional or uncool by societal standards.
This student’s essay showcases his deep interest in mythology, while creating a captivating story that reflects his identity and personal growth. It demonstrates his ability to craft a captivating story that reveals his unique spirit and personal growth but also highlights the invaluable insight that admissions would not have otherwise known.

Dos and Don’ts for Common App Essay Prompt 1

Don’t write about your interest or talent in football if your Common App activities already indicate you are captain of the team and won the state championship: your interest is fully indicated in the activities section of the application.

Don’t write about the fact that you are Chinese if your name is Wong or about being Latino if your name is Gonzalez. Our ethnicity is a fact of our existence. It is a statement of our genetic code and ancestry. And it can be very important—or not important at all, depending on the circumstances or context. For instance, it could be important to write about being Chinese if your family is the only Asian family in your small town in Montana. Being “Latino” is not as specific as being a refugee from Venezuela or the child of a Mexican businessman who grew up in Singapore. The point is our ethnicity is not really all that interesting by itself. If you are writing about your “background,” try to get much more specific and more focused on your individuality.

Do write about the fact that you spend hours and hours perfecting your juggling or yoyo talents–especially if that is not listed as an activity on your application.

Do write about your interest in fishing if it is something you do a lot but more as a hobby–and is not a part of your resume.

Do write about your life growing up in a particular place or neighborhood that has helped to define your values, your priorities, your ambitions, or academic plan.

The point is to ADD to your application by providing new and different information that helps round you out as a person. The application tends to be fairly two-dimensional, so this essay (and any responding to a different prompt, frankly) is meant to provide context to the rest of your resume.

Need Help With Your Common App Essay Prompt 1?

Yes, you can certainly get help with your Common App essay! Writing a strong college essay can be a challenging and intimidating process, and it’s perfectly normal to seek guidance and support along the way.

At Great College Advice, we offer a wide range of services designed to help students with every aspect of the college application process, including writing and revising their Common App essay. Our team of experienced counselors and writing coaches can provide personalized feedback, guidance, and support to help you craft an essay that is compelling, authentic, and effective.

Whether you need help generating ideas, organizing your thoughts, or polishing your final draft, we are here to help. We offer a variety of service packages to fit your specific needs and budget, including comprehensive application counseling, essay coaching, and hourly consultations.

Additional Resources for Common App Essay Prompt 1

In this informative video, Dr. Mark Montgomery provides valuable insights and guidance on how to approach the Common App essay prompt 1. He takes you through the entire writing process and gives tips on how to clearly communicate your individuality and showcase your unique perspectives, talents, and interests.

For additional writing help, check out our Common App Essay Series for in-depth guidance on various topics. Our expert tips and insights will help you showcase your unique experiences and perspectives in a compelling way. Whether you’re just starting your essay or simply refining it, our series is designed to help you every step of the writing process. Make your Common App Essay stand out!

Common Application Essays: What are they?
Writing about Background Story
Writing About Failure
Writing about Questioning Beliefs and Ideas
Writing about a Period of Personal Growth
Supplemental Essays
Why Our College? – Supplemental Essay Question

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Hobbies Essay: 80 Topics, 2 Examples, & My Hobby Essay Outline

The picture provides introductory information about a hobby essay.

Do you need to write a perfect leisure time essay?

It is an exciting topic – you can write about the things you are genuinely interested in! Try to think about what makes you feel inspired and share it with your readers. We will show you how to prepare a worthy paper in this article. You will find a hobbies essay writing guide, some topics on hobbies, and essay samples in the end.

🗂️ Hobby Essay Writing Guide

🧙 80 Hobby Essay Topics

✅ my hobby essay outline, 📔 hobby essay examples, 🗂️ hobby essay: 3 writing rules.

Here we will give some advice and discuss common mistakes in a “My hobbies” essay.

Follow these rules to prepare your paper wisely.

Essay on Hobbies Rule#1 Choose the Topic

First of all, you need to ensure that the hobby essay title you chose is appropriate to your paper’s length. If it is a short 100-word or 150-word essay, you can pick a simple topic. The longer the paper, the more complex issue you need. It also depends on your level of studies: high school and college paper topics have different requirements.

Your paper might also require some scientific research. In this case, look for a topic on which you can find enough information. Don’t be afraid to change or adjust the focus if you can’t find sufficient materials.

Use our amazing free essay topic generator to get the best topic!

If your instructor gave a list of topics, choose the one that interests you the most. You can also make a shortlist before you pick the most suitable title.

Essay on Hobbies Rule#2 Plan before Writing

Create a list of the essential points of your hobbies essay. Planning is vital as every paper needs a structure. Otherwise, you just might end up worshiping your hobby. This is the number one mistake.

Your outline should consist of three main parts:

Introduction. You need to state your topic and describe what the paper is about.
Body. Develop your arguments or narrative and provide evidence if necessary.
Conclusion. Summarize the information you provided in the previous paragraphs.

Find rare aspects of your hobby. They can include equipment, locations, your achievements, and inspiration, etc.

If your hobby is rather popular, share a unique story connected with it.

Essay on Hobbies Rule#3 Filter What You Say

The first thing you should remember: be as objective as possible. No matter how much you love your hobbies, you better stick to the facts. All the information you provide should be unbiased and reliable.

How can you do it?

Make references. Statistics, facts, and all other data will support your statements.
Pay attention to vocabulary. You can use jargon and specific terminology as long as it has explanations. Avoid emotional words such as “very,” “terrible,” “awesome.”
Don’t use reductions. As for academic writing, it is better to choose full forms.
Show opposing points of view. To stay objective, indicate that your ideas have counterarguments.
Check English grammar and spelling . Literacy is a must-have for any academic paper.

The picture contains 5 key rules of writing an essay about hobbies.

You can discuss one of these essay topics in your paper:

What is the hobby you dream of taking up?
Are active or passive hobbies better for children to develop properly?
Woodstock: An important event for those who have music as their hobby.
How much time do you devote to your hobbies and interests?
Reading as a family hobby.
Should a hobby be affordable or require extra spending?
Hobbies in ancient Rome: The importance of games and baths.
Who or what inspired you to take up a new hobby?
What equipment do you need for your hobby?
Art as a hobby in the UK: Why it is worth supporting.
Is it essential for a person to have a hobby?
Is there a childhood hobby that you gave up?
Sociology of music: What music means in our life.
How many hobbies can a person have?
What is your favorite hobby that you genuinely enjoy?
Did your parents force you to choose your leisure time activities?
What hobbies should you include in your resume?
Folk music as a hobby.
What is the right age to take up drawing?
Gambling as a controversial hobby.
Is it possible for a person not to have any hobbies?
Sports as a hobby: Fan habits and behaviors on a game day.
What is the most important lesson your hobby has taught you?
Japanese manga and anime: A popular hobby worldwide.
Which hobbies can you take up with a low budget?
Rock music as a hobby.
What hobby is the most popular in the United States?
How can you define the word “hobby”?
Game of Thrones: A proof of why watching TV can be a legitimate hobby.
Can singing be your hobby if you are not talented?
When can you say that activity became your hobby?
Music as a hobby: Its influence on the mind.
Who has the most exciting hobby in your family?
Why do people choose extreme or dangerous hobbies?
What are the benefits of reading books?
How to help a kid to pick their hobby?
Yoga as a stress-reducing hobby.
What should you do if you are no longer interested in your hobby?
Is it essential to achieve something in your hobby?
Music technology: Effects on professional and amateur musicians.
Can your hobby become a profession?
How can you define that a hobby is not suitable for you?
Graffiti as a hobby and an art form.
How to choose your hobby if you are interested in too many things?
Is gardening a hobby or a duty?
Teenage gaming: Balancing between an innocent hobby and addiction.
What free time activities are the most common among high school students?
What is your favorite family free time activity?
Video games: Are they an appropriate hobby for children?
Why do people lose interest in their hobbies over time?
What are the differences between sports as a profession and as a hobby?
What are the benefits of team sports such as basketball?
What hobbies have you already tried?
Do you prefer participating in your hobbies alone or with other people?
Is gaming an appropriate hobby for the elderly?
What hobbies, in your opinion, are the most expensive?
Violent video games: A hobby causing behavior problems.
Did you enjoy your hobby when you first tried it?
Music, media, and culture: Influence on behavior.
How can a hobby be helpful in your career?
Video games as a hobby producing cognitive benefits.
Is volunteering an unpaid job or a hobby?
Music as a hobby: Personality traits and music preferences.
Have your hobbies ever interfered with your studies?
Toys and games as important activities for children’s gender socialization.
What hobbies are harmful to human health?
Online games: Are they a suitable hobby for children or adults?
Is taking up a new hobby stressful for you?
The importance of music as a hobby.
How much money do you spend on your hobby?
Video games: A hobby with controversial effects.
Do you want to devote more time to your hobby?
Hip hop music as a hobby.
Have you ever inspired anyone to take up your hobby?
Music as a popular hoppy among Americans.
How do your hobbies help you in life?
Heavy metal music as a hobby: Gender differences.
Who is your role model in your hobby?
Leisure satisfaction in school teachers in Taiwan.
Does sharing a hobby make people better friends?

Writing an essay about your hobby is so exciting! If you don’t know where to start or how to organize your ideas, consider the following outline we’ve prepared to guide you.

	Start your essay with an intriguing hook in the form of an anecdote or a question related to your hobby. Then, briefly introduce your hobby and include a thesis statement indicating its significance in your life.
	. Describe how you got into this activity, what drew you to it, and how you progressed in this hobby. . Dwell on how this hobby benefits you physically, mentally, emotionally, or socially. . Focus on the difficulties you have faced in your hobby and the actions you have taken to overcome them. . Explain how your hobby has influenced your personality, worldview, and relationships with people.
	In the end, restate the thesis about the significance of the hobby and add a closing statement to make a good final impression.

And here are some short hobby essay examples for you. Read them to find inspiration. Pay attention to the structure and use them as a reference to your paper.

Let’s start!

Free Time Activities Essay

Each person needs to change their activities. If you have a sedentary job or study a lot, it is great to do some sports. If you move too much, you can enjoy reading a book in a quiet place. People need free time activities to make their lifestyle more enjoyable, healthy and get to know themselves better. First of all, having a hobby creates new experiences for you. Any kind of free time activity develops new skills and teaches you something new. It is excellent to know that you do something for yourself just for pleasure and new emotions. You can also find new friends, visit new places, and participate in events just because you have a hobby. For example, you like running. You can do it alone or join a local community. There are also plenty of amateur competitions that take place in different locations. Hobbies are beneficial for both your mental and physical health. They help you to keep your life in balance. Lacking movement in your daily life means you can compensate for it with sports. If you work from home and don’t communicate with people, you can sign up for group classes. Also, hobbies that require effort make your character more vigorous and more resistant to difficulties. When you spend your free time the way you like it, you become more self-aware. Knowing yourself means that you discover your strengths and weaknesses and understand your preferences better. You know what you are capable of now and what you need to learn to do. It is great to have a hobby to participate in different activities and enrich your life experience with new skills, places, and people. Hobbies also keep you healthy. Free-time activities are crucial for understanding your self-worth, motivations, and strong and weak spots.

My Favorite Hobby Essay

As for a high school student, my hobby might seem untypical. I design custom clothes for my family and peers. I am a seventeen-year-old boy who knows how to sew an evening dress for my mother or to create a tailored suit for any event. I chose this hobby as I was always interested in fashion, I am good at drawing and sketching, and my progress motivates me. It was always curious looking at people on the street when I was a kid. I noticed patterns, silhouettes, and various combinations. I knew some were good, some didn’t suit people, and some were just outdated. That was the moment when I started to notice the difference between fashion and style. Later, I watched fashion shows and educational YouTube videos. It is my dream to own a fashion brand, so I also paid attention to the business part of the process. Sketching clothes is the first step to their creation. I am a good drawer, so there is no problem showing all of my design ideas on paper. You just need a lot of practice. I needed to hone my skills to make proportions and colors seem as natural as possible. I also try to memorize how people look and draw them when I have an opportunity. I own more than twenty sketchbooks full of ideas and inspiration. The more ideas I generate, the easier it becomes. When I see my old sketches or pieces of clothing that I created, I can notice how much I’ve improved. Hard work and knowledge can make your goals achievable. If I don’t know something, I just search for it on the Internet and try it. Maybe you will need to try more than once, but eventually, I can see the result I want. Fashion is one of my greatest passions. That is why I never hesitate to spend some extra money or effort to create something new. I never regretted choosing fashion over any other hobbies because I always knew I was doing what was suitable for me. I know I developed my taste, drawing skills, and persistence because of this hobby. I hope one day it becomes a profession. My dream is to use all my skills and knowledge to create something people will like to wear.

Which program are you applying to?

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Everything you need to know to get Accepted

December 8, 2023

How to Write About Your Research Interests

The most common challenge that my master’s and PhD applicant clients face when writing a statement of research interests or a statement of purpose (SOP) is how to describe in concrete terms what their research interests and goals are. This is understandable. Their ideas are still evolving, and some worry that they’ll later be held to the ideas they stated in their applications, as though they were chiseled in stone. Others simply haven’t yet thought those ideas through very much.

Take a deep breath! By the time you begin writing your thesis, I promise that no one will pop up and wave your SOP or research interests statement around, saying, “But that’s not what you said here!” Everyone knows that your knowledge and ideas will develop throughout your grad program.

Here are the two things that a great statement of research interests or SOP will do:

It will clearly illustrate to the admissions committee that you possess a depth of interest and comprehension in your field and that you understand what goes into research. You will sound naïve if you talk about ideas that are too vague or nebulous, or ones that cannot be addressed adequately through your discipline.
It will explain any relevant background you have in this field, why you find it compelling, and why you are well suited for this career track .

Four questions to help you find your statement focus

To narrow your interests into something that is concrete enough for you to be able to write about convincingly, without being overly general, ask yourself these questions:

What are the broad research questions/issues that interest you? Create a summary of your interests that you can work with, and describe your interests in a sentence – or a paragraph, at most.
Within those broad areas of interest, can you begin to focus on more specific questions? If you’re not sure what the current questions/problems are in your field, now is the time to start catching up. Read recent journal publications, and go to conferences if you can. Reading the literature in your field will also give you a sense of how to frame your ideas in the language of your field.
Have you done any research in this field already? If so, do you intend to build on your previous work in grad school or go in a new direction?
How will your research contribute to the field?

Understanding how to present your goals

Some projects described in SOPs are achievable in the short term, while others are big enough to last a career. If your interests/goals fall into this latter category, acknowledge your ambitions, and try to identify some element of your interests that you can pursue as a first step.

Once you have demonstrated your skills (and past experience) in your field, you will be better equipped to define your next steps.

Focusing your interests will also involve doing more detailed research about the programs to which you plan to apply. For example, consider the following questions:

Who might be your research supervisor?
How do your interests relate to the work this scholar or these scholars are doing now?
How would you contribute to the department and to the discipline?

Your SOP will also address your post-degree, longer-term goals. Consider this: do you envision yourself pursuing a career in research/academia? (For many PhD programs, this remains the department’s formal expectation, even though many PhDs find employment outside the academy.) If you’re applying for a master’s degree, be prepared to discuss what your future plans are and how the degree will help you.

Working on your SOP or statement of research interests?

Your SOP needs to be direct, informative, and… well… purposeful! When you choose Accepted, we match you with a dedicated advisor who will help you create an SOP that best reflects your experiences, goals, and intense desire to attend your target graduate school program. And did you know that Accepted’s clients have received millions of dollars in scholarship offers? Don’t delay – get started now by checking out our Graduate School Application Services .

For 25 years, Accepted has helped applicants gain acceptance to top undergraduate and graduate programs. Our expert team of admissions consultants features former admissions directors, PhDs, and professional writers who have advised clients to acceptance at top programs worldwide, including Harvard, Stanford, Yale, Princeton, Penn, Columbia, Oxford, Cambridge, INSEAD, MIT, Caltech, UC Berkeley, and Northwestern. Want an admissions expert to help you get Accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

STEM Applicants: Why Your Statement of Purpose is So Important
Three Must-Have Elements of a Good Statement of Purpose
Writing Your Career Goals Essay

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How to Write an Essay on Personal Interests & Career Goals

Essays on personal interests and career goals are often required of those applying for undergraduate or graduate programs, internships and jobs. They are similar to other essays in the basic layout and format, but are focused exclusively on the interests and goals related to what you are applying for. For instance, if your essay is part of an application for engineering graduate school, your focus will be on your interests in science, engineering, mathematics and other related content, as well as your engineering career goals.

Write out all of the interests and careers goals. Interests will often vary and individuals might have a few career goals based on interests and indecisiveness. Having a clear list of all interests and goals can make the essay easier to write.

Research the career and interests that relate to the career goal. Interests that are not related to the career goal should be discarded from this essay to avoid confusion and make the essay more cohesive. Research should include information about the career, such as statistical data on salary, the work done in the career or historical information on the career. Research on interests should include how these are related to the career, historical information about the interest and facts that are not commonly known. You might not use all research in your essay.

Write a statement that sums up your goals. Your statement should be written in the first person. For instance: "Since I was a child, I have been fascinated by the seen and unseen entities that make up our universe; it is this fascination that made me want to become a physicist."

Write an outline to support your statement. The outline should be formatted to have at least two or three supporting paragraphs for the statement. These paragraphs should incorporate your personal interests and career goals related to your statement. Include a few personal experiences and a few facts you uncovered through research.

Write a rough draft. It should be based on the outline with your statement in the first paragraph. Unlike other essays, this type of essay should be in first person due to the nature of the topic. Support your statement with facts and personal examples.

Check for spelling mistakes and that the essay complies with the instructions for the specific essay. When writing a personal essay, it is often easy to write too many words for the instructions. Check that the essay does not exceed the word limit. Editing is important to any essay and especially important for personal essays about interests and career goals.

Ask a teacher or other suitable person to look over your essay. Ask him or her to look out for typos and to provide general feedback. Use these comments to complete your final draft. Make sure your final draft's format follows all instructions, including font, paper type and spacing.

1 Cornell University Career Services: Sample Essays
2 Furman University: Student Essay Tips

About the Author

Helen Jain has been writing online articles since December 2009 for various websites. She has studied English and psychology and hopes to get a Ph.D. in English in the future.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, how to write an interest essay.

Hey everyone, some of the colleges on my list require me to write a 'Why Us?'-style essay, focusing on what interests me about the school. Any tips on how to make it specific and genuine rather than generic? Thanks!

Hi! Writing a 'Why Us?' essay can be a bit tricky, but I'm here to help. The key to a standout interest essay is research and personalization. Here are some tips to make your essay specific and genuine:

1. Do your homework: Thoroughly research the college and its programs, departments, and resources. Go beyond just looking at the college's main website - explore individual departments, student groups, unique offerings, and recent news.

2. Focus on unique aspects: Avoid praising aspects of the school that could apply to many other colleges, such as location or campus beauty. Instead, focus on what truly sets the college apart. Think about specialized programs, research opportunities, or unique extracurriculars that align with your interests.

3. Show how you'd contribute: Colleges want to know that you'll be an engaged member of their community. Include specific examples of how you can see yourself participating in and contributing to campus life. This might be through clubs, research, volunteering, or other opportunities.

4. Be authentic: Your essay should reflect genuine enthusiasm for the college. Talk about the aspects that excite you most, and avoid simply regurgitating information from the college website. Share personal experiences or anecdotes that have shaped your interest in the school.

5. Connect the college to your goals: Show how this specific college will help you achieve your academic and career goals. For example, maybe the college has exceptional faculty in your desired field, or it offers internships that would provide you with valuable experience in your chosen career.

6. Mention specific faculty or courses: If there are professors whose work you admire or unique courses that intrigue you, mention them in your essay. Be sure to explain why these aspects of the college appeal to you and how they connect to your broader interests and goals.

7. Tailor your essay to each college: While you might be tempted to reuse the same essay for multiple colleges, it's essential to tailor your response to each specific school. Tailoring your essay shows you've done your research and demonstrates a genuine interest in the college.

To learn more about this essay prompt, read the following blog post: https://blog.collegevine.com/why-this-college-essays-should-you-focus-on-yourself-or-the-college/

Incorporating these tips into your 'Why Us?' essay will help you stand out from the crowd and showcase your genuine interest in the college. Good luck!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

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Essay on My Hobby

Updated on
Mar 16, 2023

How to Write a Winning Essay on My Hobby

Having a meaningful hobby is an integral part of human life. Taking out a few moments in your busy life to pursue your hobby which genuinely satisfies you will make your life more stress-free. There might be many instances in life where people would like to know more about your hobby. You can refer to this blog on such occasions where you need to explain your hobby in detail in the form of essays. Essay writing is an integral part of the English subject. Mastering the skill of essay writing is not easy but can be perfected over time through practice. This blog explores what an essay on my hobby is, how to write it, valuable tips and sample essays on my hobby!

This Blog Includes:

What is an essay on my hobby, how to write an essay on my hobby, sample essay in 100 words, sample essay in 200 words, sample essay in 500 words, tips for writing an essay on my hobby .

An essay on ‘my hobby’ gives the admission committee insight into your life and you as a person. It shows them how your interests and hobbies have a role in your life and how much of a creative and intellectual person you are, apart from your academic excellence. It also gives a clear view of your skills and values. So it is important that you curate an essay that helps to sway the admission committee in your favour and make you stand out from the rest of the candidates.

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Recent posts, subscribe here, more expert advice, how to write the “academic interests” supplemental essay.

If you’re a senior starting to work on supplemental essays for college applications this fall, it’s likely you’ve encountered some version of this question: what do you want to study, and why?

Before you dive in, it’s important to understand what the question is asking (I know this seems like a duh, but stay with me). Like we discussed here , the way this question is asked reveals a lot about both the school itself and the way you should approach it. For some schools – many liberal arts colleges and universities where it’s relatively easy and encouraged to switch majors – this question is usually phrased as what you want to learn more about. Responses to questions like these should zing with curiosity. For others – more siloed universities where you apply into a particular college and into a specific major – this question is often asked to reveal how much thought you’ve put into your major of choice, both in how you’ve prepared for it and what you hope to do with it in the future.

For some students, if the way the question is asked makes it tough to answer, it may be a sign that the college itself isn’t the right fit. But for most students, it’s more about not knowing where to start. If you’re stuck with how to approach this style of question, this blog post is for you.

First, much like with the “why us?” supplemental essay, it’s important to know what style of question you’re answering. Once you figure that piece out, the essay is much easier to write. This question usually is asked in one of three ways:

1) Why major?

This is the most straightforward version. It’s typical of schools where you’re applying more directly into a specific major, and they want to hear how you’ve decided on that pathway. Classic examples of this one are Purdue, UT Austin, MIT, Carnegie Mellon, and the University of Southern California.

Sample : Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests and why you want to explore them at USC specifically. Please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections.

2) What do you hope to study?

This is a more open-ended version of the question above. It invites you to share multiple academic pathways, perhaps if you’re undecided or see many roads ahead for yourself. CU Boulder, U Penn, and Pomona all ask a version of this question.

Sample : Please share a bit more about your academic interests. What do you hope to study at CU Boulder? What has inspired your interests in this area? Or if you are undecided, what area(s) of study are you considering? Think about your prior/current coursework, extracurricular activities, work/volunteer experiences, future goals, or anything else that has shaped your interests.

3) Intellectual curiosity

This is a popular question for liberal arts colleges or any college that celebrates intellectual discovery and exploration (ie, where changing your academic pathway, or exploring many interests, is easy or encouraged). Some schools that ask this type of question are Yale, Stanford, Tufts, Barnard, and Haverford.

Sample : The Stanford community is deeply curious and driven to learn in and out of the classroom. Reflect on an idea or experience that makes you genuinely excited about learning.

As you approach this topic, it’s important to remember that while you can be undecided (except for schools that ask that first question), you can’t be uninterested . Colleges want to hear your curiosity in these responses. It’s very likely you’ll change majors or pathways in college (frankly, it’s what most American colleges are built to encourage). But what leads to academic success is a spark of an interest, so make sure you’re demonstrating those sparks. Here’s how.

4 Tips on How to Write This Well

1) Share honest stories about yourself and how you became interested in these subjects.

Origins of interest sound like this:

"I've never seen my father angrier than the day I took our family television apart just to see how it worked. I was 12 years old, and Monday Night Football was just about to start. It wasn't the first time I'd done something like that, but it was the first time I wasn't able to put something back together quickly. It took me three hours, but I did it, just in time for my dad to see his beloved Giants lose. I never made that mistake again, but I've also never stopped trying to learn how things work."

The development of interests sounds like this:

"My junior year of high school, I volunteered to lead a fundraiser to send our soccer team to Europe to compete in a tournament. And while I enjoyed organizing the car wash and the donation drive and the now much maligned "shrimp-a-thon" (Sizzler doesn't mean it when they say, "All you can eat shrimp,” by the way), what I really enjoyed was crafting personal emails to ask for donations, and writing the regular update newsletters I sent to people who were supporting us, and updating the travel blog I wrote during our stay in Europe. Every day, I thought about new ways to share our story with people who might be interested. Yes, we raised money. But we also raised interest. People who had never cared about our team started caring. We developed a following of loyal supporters, and 18 guys who had never been to Europe finally got to go because of it. That experience was the first time I started to understand the power of the well-written word."

2) Pick stories that show you enjoying what you’re learning.

"I truly enjoy working on complex math problems. There is no better feeling than persisting through difficult formulas and eventually working out the right answer."

"My friends and I are the only people I know who have fights about math. Not physical fights (none of us are tough enough for that), but arguments. We spend a lot of our lunch hours sitting at what we call the ‘coolest table’ working through problem sets for the “Math Club,” and you’d be surprised how worked up we get about it. But I love it. I love that I can sit at a table with some of the smartest people at my school and argue about the best way to solve a complex math problem. And the best part is, nobody is ever angry when they’re proven wrong. We love math too much to be mad when someone shows us a faster, better way to solve the problem.”

3) If the question is asked as “why major” (sample question #1) or “what are your academic interests?” (sample question #2), then tie these interests to your future college plans.

Imagine yourself studying and learning in a particular college. Do you see a clear picture in your mind? Have you really investigated your chosen major? Have you looked at what classes are required, what will be expected of you, and what types of students seem to flourish there? And when you're answering those questions, how much of what interests you is specific to this school? If the question is more open-ended (version #2), you can paint a picture of multiple pathways – perhaps dabbling in music and biology or using their core curriculum to help you decide on psychology or political science.

4) If the question is like sample question #3 (intellectual curiosity), stay open-minded and get nerdy!

Remember that your answer to this style of prompt doesn’t necessarily have to align with your potential major choice. We’ve seen great responses to this question that nerd out about Spanish literature from future physics majors, or the paradoxes of time from future English majors. Don’t box yourself into writing about your intended major pathway necessarily. Think instead of what has made you truly excited about learning in the past – whether it’s when you connected the dots in a murder mystery and explored the interplay of psychology and creative writing, or that time you went down a rabbit hole about parallel universes and never got out. These responses should sparkle with inquisitive excitement.

For more on supplemental essays, make sure to check out our thorough overview here of how to crush supplemental essays, the Collegewise way.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 53 stellar college essay topics to inspire you.

College Essays

feature_orange_notebook_pencil_college_essay_topics

Most colleges and universities in the United States require applicants to submit at least one essay as part of their application. But trying to figure out what college essay topics you should choose is a tricky process. There are so many potential things you could write about!

In this guide, we go over the essential qualities that make for a great college essay topic and give you 50+ college essay topics you can use for your own statement . In addition, we provide you with helpful tips for turning your college essay topic into a stellar college essay.

What Qualities Make for a Good College Essay Topic?

Regardless of what you write about in your personal statement for college , there are key features that will always make for a stand-out college essay topic.

#1: It’s Specific

First off, good college essay topics are extremely specific : you should know all the pertinent facts that have to do with the topic and be able to see how the entire essay comes together.

Specificity is essential because it’ll not only make your essay stand out from other statements, but it'll also recreate the experience for admissions officers through its realism, detail, and raw power. You want to tell a story after all, and specificity is the way to do so. Nobody wants to read a vague, bland, or boring story — not even admissions officers!

For example, an OK topic would be your experience volunteering at a cat shelter over the summer. But a better, more specific college essay topic would be how you deeply connected with an elderly cat there named Marty, and how your bond with him made you realize that you want to work with animals in the future.

Remember that specificity in your topic is what will make your essay unique and memorable . It truly is the key to making a strong statement (pun intended)!

#2: It Shows Who You Are

In addition to being specific, good college essay topics reveal to admissions officers who you are: your passions and interests, what is important to you, your best (or possibly even worst) qualities, what drives you, and so on.

The personal statement is critical because it gives schools more insight into who you are as a person and not just who you are as a student in terms of grades and classes.

By coming up with a real, honest topic, you’ll leave an unforgettable mark on admissions officers.

#3: It’s Meaningful to You

The very best college essay topics are those that hold deep meaning to their writers and have truly influenced them in some significant way.

For instance, maybe you plan to write about the first time you played Skyrim to explain how this video game revealed to you the potentially limitless worlds you could create, thereby furthering your interest in game design.

Even if the topic seems trivial, it’s OK to use it — just as long as you can effectively go into detail about why this experience or idea had such an impact on you .

Don’t give in to the temptation to choose a topic that sounds impressive but doesn’t actually hold any deep meaning for you. Admissions officers will see right through this!

Similarly, don’t try to exaggerate some event or experience from your life if it’s not all that important to you or didn’t have a substantial influence on your sense of self.

#4: It’s Unique

College essay topics that are unique are also typically the most memorable, and if there’s anything you want to be during the college application process, it’s that! Admissions officers have to sift through thousands of applications, and the essay is one of the only parts that allows them to really get a sense of who you are and what you value in life.

If your essay is trite or boring, it won’t leave much of an impression , and your application will likely get immediately tossed to the side with little chance of seeing admission.

But if your essay topic is very original and different, you’re more likely to earn that coveted second glance at your application.

What does being unique mean exactly, though? Many students assume that they must choose an extremely rare or crazy experience to talk about in their essays —but that's not necessarily what I mean by "unique." Good college essay topics can be unusual and different, yes, but they can also be unique takes on more mundane or common activities and experiences .

For instance, say you want to write an essay about the first time you went snowboarding. Instead of just describing the details of the experience and how you felt during it, you could juxtapose your emotions with a creative and humorous perspective from the snowboard itself. Or you could compare your first attempt at snowboarding with your most recent experience in a snowboarding competition. The possibilities are endless!

#5: It Clearly Answers the Question

Finally, good college essay topics will clearly and fully answer the question(s) in the prompt.

You might fail to directly answer a prompt by misinterpreting what it’s asking you to do, or by answering only part of it (e.g., answering just one out of three questions).

Therefore, make sure you take the time to come up with an essay topic that is in direct response to every question in the prompt .

Take this Coalition Application prompt as an example:

What is the hardest part of being a teenager now? What's the best part? What advice would you give a younger sibling or friend (assuming they would listen to you)?

For this prompt, you’d need to answer all three questions (though it’s totally fine to focus more on one or two of them) to write a compelling and appropriate essay.

This is why we recommend reading and rereading the essay prompt ; you should know exactly what it’s asking you to do, well before you start brainstorming possible college application essay topics.

53 College Essay Topics to Get Your Brain Moving

In this section, we give you a list of 53 examples of college essay topics. Use these as jumping-off points to help you get started on your college essay and to ensure that you’re on track to coming up with a relevant and effective topic.

All college application essay topics below are categorized by essay prompt type. We’ve identified six general types of college essay prompts:

Why This College?

Change and personal growth, passions, interests, and goals, overcoming a challenge, diversity and community, solving a problem.

Note that these prompt types could overlap with one another, so you’re not necessarily limited to just one college essay topic in a single personal statement.

How a particular major or program will help you achieve your academic or professional goals
A memorable and positive interaction you had with a professor or student at the school
Something good that happened to you while visiting the campus or while on a campus tour
A certain class you want to take or a certain professor you’re excited to work with
Some piece of on-campus equipment or facility that you’re looking forward to using
Your plans to start a club at the school, possibly to raise awareness of a major issue
A study abroad or other unique program that you can’t wait to participate in
How and where you plan to volunteer in the community around the school
An incredible teacher you studied under and the positive impact they had on you
How you went from really liking something, such as a particular movie star or TV show, to not liking it at all (or vice versa)
How yours or someone else’s (change in) socioeconomic status made you more aware of poverty
A time someone said something to you that made you realize you were wrong
How your opinion on a controversial topic, such as gay marriage or DACA, has shifted over time
A documentary that made you aware of a particular social, economic, or political issue going on in the country or world
Advice you would give to your younger self about friendship, motivation, school, etc.
The steps you took in order to kick a bad or self-sabotaging habit
A juxtaposition of the first and most recent time you did something, such as dance onstage
A book you read that you credit with sparking your love of literature and/or writing
A school assignment or project that introduced you to your chosen major
A glimpse of your everyday routine and how your biggest hobby or interest fits into it
The career and (positive) impact you envision yourself having as a college graduate
A teacher or mentor who encouraged you to pursue a specific interest you had
How moving around a lot helped you develop a love of international exchange or learning languages
A special skill or talent you’ve had since you were young and that relates to your chosen major in some way, such as designing buildings with LEGO bricks
Where you see yourself in 10 or 20 years
Your biggest accomplishment so far relating to your passion (e.g., winning a gold medal for your invention at a national science competition)
A time you lost a game or competition that was really important to you
How you dealt with the loss or death of someone close to you
A time you did poorly in a class that you expected to do well in
How moving to a new school impacted your self-esteem and social life
A chronic illness you battled or are still battling
Your healing process after having your heart broken for the first time
A time you caved under peer pressure and the steps you took so that it won't happen again
How you almost gave up on learning a foreign language but stuck with it
Why you decided to become a vegetarian or vegan, and how you navigate living with a meat-eating family
What you did to overcome a particular anxiety or phobia you had (e.g., stage fright)
A history of a failed experiment you did over and over, and how you finally found a way to make it work successfully
Someone within your community whom you aspire to emulate
A family tradition you used to be embarrassed about but are now proud of
Your experience with learning English upon moving to the United States
A close friend in the LGBTQ+ community who supported you when you came out
A time you were discriminated against, how you reacted, and what you would do differently if faced with the same situation again
How you navigate your identity as a multiracial, multiethnic, and/or multilingual person
A project or volunteer effort you led to help or improve your community
A particular celebrity or role model who inspired you to come out as LGBTQ+
Your biggest challenge (and how you plan to tackle it) as a female in a male-dominated field
How you used to discriminate against your own community, and what made you change your mind and eventually take pride in who you are and/or where you come from
A program you implemented at your school in response to a known problem, such as a lack of recycling cans in the cafeteria
A time you stepped in to mediate an argument or fight between two people
An app or other tool you developed to make people’s lives easier in some way
A time you proposed a solution that worked to an ongoing problem at school, an internship, or a part-time job
The steps you took to identify and fix an error in coding for a website or program
An important social or political issue that you would fix if you had the means

How to Build a College Essay in 6 Easy Steps

Once you’ve decided on a college essay topic you want to use, it’s time to buckle down and start fleshing out your essay. These six steps will help you transform a simple college essay topic into a full-fledged personal statement.

Step 1: Write Down All the Details

Once you’ve chosen a general topic to write about, get out a piece of paper and get to work on creating a list of all the key details you could include in your essay . These could be things such as the following:

Emotions you felt at the time
Names, places, and/or numbers
Dialogue, or what you or someone else said
A specific anecdote, example, or experience
Descriptions of how things looked, felt, or seemed

If you can only come up with a few details, then it’s probably best to revisit the list of college essay topics above and choose a different one that you can write more extensively on.

Good college essay topics are typically those that:

You remember well (so nothing that happened when you were really young)
You're excited to write about
You're not embarrassed or uncomfortable to share with others
You believe will make you positively stand out from other applicants

Step 2: Figure Out Your Focus and Approach

Once you have all your major details laid out, start to figure out how you could arrange them in a way that makes sense and will be most effective.

It’s important here to really narrow your focus: you don’t need to (and shouldn’t!) discuss every single aspect of your trip to visit family in Indonesia when you were 16. Rather, zero in on a particular anecdote or experience and explain why and how it impacted you.

Alternatively, you could write about multiple experiences while weaving them together with a clear, meaningful theme or concept , such as how your math teacher helped you overcome your struggle with geometry over the course of an entire school year. In this case, you could mention a few specific times she tutored you and most strongly supported you in your studies.

There’s no one right way to approach your college essay, so play around to see what approaches might work well for the topic you’ve chosen.

If you’re really unsure about how to approach your essay, think about what part of your topic was or is most meaningful and memorable to you, and go from there.

Step 3: Structure Your Narrative

Beginning: Don’t just spout off a ton of background information here—you want to hook your reader, so try to start in the middle of the action , such as with a meaningful conversation you had or a strong emotion you felt. It could also be a single anecdote if you plan to center your essay around a specific theme or idea.
Middle: Here’s where you start to flesh out what you’ve established in the opening. Provide more details about the experience (if a single anecdote) or delve into the various times your theme or idea became most important to you. Use imagery and sensory details to put the reader in your shoes.
End: It’s time to bring it all together. Finish describing the anecdote or theme your essay centers around and explain how it relates to you now , what you’ve learned or gained from it, and how it has influenced your goals.

Step 4: Write a Rough Draft

By now you should have all your major details and an outline for your essay written down; these two things will make it easy for you to convert your notes into a rough draft.

At this stage of the writing process, don’t worry too much about vocabulary or grammar and just focus on getting out all your ideas so that they form the general shape of an essay . It’s OK if you’re a little over the essay's word limit — as you edit, you’ll most likely make some cuts to irrelevant and ineffective parts anyway.

If at any point you get stuck and have no idea what to write, revisit steps 1-3 to see whether there are any important details or ideas you might be omitting or not elaborating on enough to get your overall point across to admissions officers.

Step 5: Edit, Revise, and Proofread

Sections that are too wordy and don’t say anything important
Irrelevant details that don’t enhance your essay or the point you're trying to make
Parts that seem to drag or that feel incredibly boring or redundant
Areas that are vague and unclear and would benefit from more detail
Phrases or sections that are awkwardly placed and should be moved around
Areas that feel unconvincing, inauthentic, or exaggerated

Start paying closer attention to your word choice/vocabulary and grammar at this time, too. It’s perfectly normal to edit and revise your college essay several times before asking for feedback, so keep working with it until you feel it’s pretty close to its final iteration.

This step will likely take the longest amount of time — at least several weeks, if not months — so really put effort into fixing up your essay. Once you’re satisfied, do a final proofread to ensure that it’s technically correct.

Step 6: Get Feedback and Tweak as Needed

After you’ve overhauled your rough draft and made it into a near-final draft, give your essay to somebody you trust , such as a teacher or parent, and have them look it over for technical errors and offer you feedback on its content and overall structure.

Use this feedback to make any last-minute changes or edits. If necessary, repeat steps 5 and 6. You want to be extra sure that your essay is perfect before you submit it to colleges!

Recap: From College Essay Topics to Great College Essays

Many different kinds of college application essay topics can get you into a great college. But this doesn’t make it any easier to choose the best topic for you .

In general, the best college essay topics have the following qualities :

They’re specific
They show who you are
They’re meaningful to you
They’re unique
They clearly answer the question

If you ever need help coming up with an idea of what to write for your essay, just refer to the list of 53 examples of college essay topics above to get your brain juices flowing.

Once you’ve got an essay topic picked out, follow these six steps for turning your topic into an unforgettable personal statement :

Write down all the details
Figure out your focus and approach
Structure your narrative
Write a rough draft
Edit, revise, and proofread
Get feedback and tweak as needed

And with that, I wish you the best of luck on your college essays!

What’s Next?

Writing a college essay is no simple task. Get expert college essay tips with our guides on how to come up with great college essay ideas and how to write a college essay, step by step .

You can also check out this huge list of college essay prompts to get a feel for what types of questions you'll be expected to answer on your applications.

Want to see examples of college essays that absolutely rocked? You're in luck because we've got a collection of 100+ real college essay examples right here on our blog!

Want to write the perfect college application essay? We can help. Your dedicated PrepScholar Admissions counselor will help you craft your perfect college essay, from the ground up. We learn your background and interests, brainstorm essay topics, and walk you through the essay drafting process, step-by-step. At the end, you'll have a unique essay to proudly submit to colleges. Don't leave your college application to chance. Find out more about PrepScholar Admissions now:

Hannah received her MA in Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California. From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel.

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How to Write About Your Hobbies and Interests

Last Updated: March 15, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Christopher Taylor, PhD . Christopher Taylor is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of English at Austin Community College in Texas. He received his PhD in English Literature and Medieval Studies from the University of Texas at Austin in 2014. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 979,832 times.

The interests and hobbies section of a resume or college application provides a good opportunity to showcase your personality. A well-executed one can even compensate for a lack in experience or education. Although you might think that all resumes are alike, you should always gear your document toward the specific audience who will be reading it, taking into consideration what they want from you as an applicant. This article will discuss how to write about your hobbies and interests for the two audiences for a resume: a college admissions committee and a potential employer.

Writing Help

Writing for a College Admissions Committee

Step 1 Format your application resume by priority.

College admissions committees are far more interested in your grades, work experience, skills and awards than they are in your hobbies and interests.
As such, the hobbies and interests section of your resume should be presented toward the end of your resume. End with it, don’t lead with it.
Prioritize individual activities as well. You can either list your activities chronologically, as you probably did in the “Work Experience” section, or from most to least impressive.
Always remember that resumes are “top-down” documents, meaning you should lead with what you most want the reader to know about you. [2] X Research source

Do not simply list all of your activities with commas. This suggests that you have nothing to say about what you did other than the fact that you did it. Break each activity into its own bullet point.
Decide whether you will write in full sentences or short phrases. A resume should not be overly long — ideally, it should fit onto a single page. If you find that your resume has too much length, use phrases rather than full sentences.
For example: “Tennis: state champions, 2013, 2014; co-captained varsity team, 2012-14; member of varsity team, 2010-14.
If your resume is not long enough and you need to develop length, you can write that same information out in full sentences: “Tennis: As a member of the varsity team from 2010 to 2014, I helped my team win the state championship in both 2013 and 2014. As co-captain from 2012 to 2014, I provided leadership both on and off the court, leading team workouts during the off-season and keeping teammates accountable to one another.”

The activities section of your resume is the place to demonstrate that you don’t have a one-track mind. You have a variety of interests that can be developed over your four years in college.
If possible, present an array of activities that demonstrate an engaged, curious mind: athletics, volunteerism, academic teams, interest in both the humanities (speech team) and STEM areas (Mathletes), etc.
The more well-rounded you seem, the more appealing you will be to a committee that is trying to assess how you will develop over the next four years.

Step 5 Set yourself apart from the pack.

Demonstrate a high level of interest in at least one of your activities. If you were a team captain, elected official or an otherwise engaged member of a group, you need to highlight that as well as possible.
Describe the leadership qualities you may have developed through this activity: “As Key Club president, I chaired weekly meetings, delegated club responsibilities into committees, expanded our presence by recruited peers into volunteerism and oversaw member training before sending volunteers out into the community.”
Explain what peripheral qualities you developed: “Over my four years in the Key Club, I developed an abiding dedication to underserved populations in local communities.”

Step 6 Choose language carefully to dress up your activities.

Use the active voice throughout every document you submit in the application process. [6] X Research source The passive voice suggests that you passively received skills or qualities from your life experiences, whereas the active voice demonstrates your engagement: you earned those skills.
Note the difference between “Being on the football team taught me the importance of being a team player” and “I strengthened the team’s resolve and success by stressing to individual players the importance of group cohesion to the achievement of our goals.” Take credit wherever possible, even if you weren’t in leadership positions.
Even if you don’t think you got a lot out of an activity, think about what skills and qualities you could have developed. For example —you might have been an awful cheerleader, but you can still say “I devoted myself to grueling practices daily throughout the season and developed an effective time-management system, through which I balanced schoolwork and cheering while dedicating myself fully to both.”
Even if you’re not going to make the collegiate cheer squad, you’ve still demonstrated that you can manage your time — something you learned from cheerleading.

Writing for a Potential Employer

Step 1 Decide whether or not a “Hobbies and Interests” section is appropriate for this job.

Research the corporate culture of the company you’re applying to. Some companies encourage employees to bring their interests into the creative workplace, for example, Google explicitly cultivates an “open culture” workplace where hobbies are welcomed. A hobbies section would be very appropriate for an application in the tech industry with a company like Google.
However, if you’re applying for a position at an accounting firm, the corporate culture may not be as welcoming of your hobbies. Leave them off that resume.

Choose interests that not only mean a lot to you, but also demonstrate the kind of person you are.
For example, “reading” is a fairly generic activity that doesn’t reveal that much about you. However, running marathons suggests that you possess a high level of dedication and that you can overcome obstacles.
"Listening to music" doesn't tell your employee anything about you, but "I have practiced classical piano for 17 years," tells them a lot.
"Volunteering," tells the employer something about you, but it's not as detailed as it could be. Say, instead, that you've volunteered weekly at the same soup kitchen for 3 years, or that you bring your expertise from your state champion high school football team to bear when volunteering as a coach for community football league.
Generally, hobbies that show leadership skills, personal initiative, dedication, or drive are good boosters for your resume.

Step 4 Connect your interests to the job.

Community Q&A

Be careful about listing hobbies and interests indicative of thrill-seeking and risk-taking behaviors, as these qualities may work against you with certain employers. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Avoid sounding overly committed to your hobbies and interests, as this could indicate to potential employers that your personal interests may come before your career. For example, "I play chess every chance I get, as it is my goal to travel the country as a full-time competitor," could be geared for resume writing by rewording it as, "I enjoy the chess club because it stimulates my creative problem-solving skills and opens my mind to new ways of thinking outside the box." Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

↑ Dobrin, Sidney I., Christopher J. Keller, and Christian R. Weisser. Technical Communication in the Twenty-First Century. Columbus, Ohio: Prentice Hall, 2010. Print.
↑ https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/findajob/resources/write-good-resume
↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/listing-hobbies-and-interests-on-your-resume-with-examples
↑ https://ccrscenter.org/sites/default/files/AskCCRS_Well-Rounded_Education.pdf
↑ https://www.cfnc.org/news/college-essay-prompts/
↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/Handbook/CCS_activevoice.html
↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/interview-question-hobbies-and-interests

About This Article

To write about your hobbies and interests for college admissions, frame them as something you dedicate your time towards rather than just something you have fun with. For example, on your college application, list them under the title “Extracurricular Activities” since this is more professional than “Hobbies” or “Interests” Choose to list the hobbies you’ve spent the most time on to show your dedication, whether that’s the tennis team, girl scouts, or piano. When you write about your hobbies, use an active voice and describe how you contributed to it. For example, you could write “I strengthened the team’s resolve and success by stressing to individual players the importance of group cohesion to the achievement of our goals. Alternatively, you could say, “I devoted myself to grueling practices daily throughout the season and developed effective time-management by balancing schoolwork and cheering.” To learn how to write about your hobbies and interests on a resume, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Essay on My Hobby for Students and Children

500+ words essay on my hobby.

Hobbies play a very important role in our lives. They occupy our minds when we are free and also make us happy. Hobbies are our escape from the real world that makes us forget our worries. Moreover, they make our lives interesting and enjoyable. If we look at it, all our hobbies are very useful for us. They teach us a lot of things about different stuff. They also help in expanding our knowledge.

Benefits of Having a Hobby

In today’s fast and competitive world, we often get time for ourselves. Over time, our schedule gets very dull and monotonous. That is why we need to indulge in something in between to keep our minds fresh and active. What’s better than a hobby for this? One of the main benefits of having a hobby is that it is a major stress-buster. You actually enjoy doing it and it satisfies your soul.

In other words, without a hobby, your life becomes an unhealthy cycle lacking any excitement or spark. Hobbies offer you a great opportunity to take a break and forget the worries of your life. They allow you to explore yourself and realize your potential in different areas.

Moreover, hobbies can also be a source of extra income. For instance, if you like painting, you can actually sell your art to make some extra money. Likewise, if you have a knack for dancing, you may teach dance classes to people on your holidays. This way your hobby a benefit you both spiritually and financially as well.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

My Favourite Hobby

If I were to pick one favourite hobby of mine out of the many I have, I will definitely pick gardening. I developed a taste for dancing when I was very young. The way my feet moved to the rhythm of the music convinced my parents that I was a born dancer. Dancing is very uplifting as well as economical.

I have always had a love for music and dance. However, I never realized the utter joy they bring to humans. Dancing gives us a lot of exercises. It teaches us to move our body rhythmically and feel the beat of every song. This kind of physical exercise is extremely delightful and enjoyable.

Moreover, dance also taught me how to stay strong and push my limits. I have had many injuries while dancing, too many bruises and cuts but that didn’t stop me from pursuing it further. In fact, it pushes me to do my best and realize my potential more than ever.

I have enrolled in dancing classes because I wish to make my hobby my career. I feel we all should do things which we enjoy doing. Everyone is running after money and in this race, they give up their likings and preferences. I have learned from this race and decided to not take part in it. I wish to take the road less traveled by and take on challenges most people don’t dare to.

In short, my hobby of dancing makes me feel alive and well. It is the only thing I look forward the most to. Thus, I hope to achieve my dream of being a professional dancer and making way for people who wish to make careers out of their hobbies.

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My hobby essay | How to write an amazing one!

Your hobbies could be distinct and can often direct the course of your life. while communicating about your hobby could be different, writing about it in an essay will require a separate set of steps. check out the blog to know more about how to write a ‘my hobby essay ’, table of contents, tips to write a ‘my hobby essay’, how to write a ‘my hobby essay’, an example of ‘my hobby’ essay in 300 words, what we have to say.

Hobbies help you dive deeper into your world of passion.

We are required to engage in hobbies to live an enriching life. Not only do hobbies allow us to escape the worries of the real world for a limited time, but they also help us use our intellect for something that interests us.

Check out the key elements for writing an amazing ‘My hobby essay’

Prepare a strong outline for the essay to ensure that it is well written with no gaps in the framework.
Don’t write about hobbies that you do not have in real life. Maintain your authenticity, as that will help you produce a meaty essay.
Instead of continuously talking about how your hobby makes you feel, you can give examples of how your hobbies were integrated into your job or how your expertise or interest in something unexpectedly proved beneficial.
By proofreading your essay , you can remove redundancy, and mistakes from it.

Begin by deciding which interests you will discuss in your essay. You have the option of listing multiple distinct interests or focusing on just one. The idea is to stay true to yourself. Do not make up interests for the blog to feel authentic.

Your activities are a reflection of who you are. Start your essay by saying what your passion is, then explain how you became interested in it, what encouraged you to pursue it, and how it benefits you emotionally. Describe how it aided you in learning new skills , assisting you in various life circumstances, and assisting you in being a better person.

You can also mention the influence it had on someone else, such as if you enjoy nature and planted trees to benefit the environment, or if you enjoy doing social work and volunteering at a homeless shelter. This will help the reader ‌learn about your beliefs, vision, and character by reading your essay.

An enriching hobby is something that everyone should have to make their lives free from monotony. Everyone needs a hobby because it keeps them occupied and gives them time to dwell on other things besides work.

It serves as a peaceful escape from the rat race. I recall that when I was three years old; I preferred to spend my free time in my garden. Spending my mornings in the garden with my father was something that I looked forward to. My father used to laugh at me when he saw me watering plants when I was a kid. But now my dad is so proud of me that I try to safeguard plants and recognize their contribution to the environment.

Hobbies are things we must engage in daily. We can get away from the stresses of everyday life. It provides us with great joy and tranquillity of mind, body, and soul. It stimulates our creativity and motivates us to make positive changes in our lives and often leads to a positive impact on the community. Creating a positive impact on the community can be possible as a result of our collective efforts.

Hobbies also aid in the discovery of our talents and abilities, which may eventually lead you to discover your life’s calling.

Gardening is my favorite hobby, and I enjoy planting new plants and watering them every morning. The sight of flowers blooming and plants growing appeals to me. Not only does this give me happiness, but it also gives me a feeling of being involved in contributing to a healthier planet, regardless of how small the scale is.

This hobby further aids my fitness, health, strength, and rejuvenation. Watering plants and gardening regularly is a great way for me to begin my days in a positive light.

Every person on our planet is different, and so are their interests.
People work, think, communicate , interpret, and act in a variety of ways. All of these things are ways for us to express ourselves.
Life is intended to be lived passionately and with a clear vision of making it as enriching as possible.
What people like doing, or their interests, define them greatly. And that makes it important for us to have a hobby of some sort, as it can often help to direct our lives on the right path.
It keeps our ideas fresh, allows us to relieve tension, and increases our drive to achieve our goals. You may also make a profession out of your interest. It depends on what you enjoy doing and how much passion it inspires in you.

Liked the blog? Comment below and share your thoughts with us!

Liked this blog? Read next: How to write the perfect discipline essay?

Q1. What is the root of the word hobby?

Answer – The word hobby is derived from the word hobbyhorse, which means favorite pastime.

Q2. What is the world’s oldest hobby?

Answer – The hobby of collecting coins, known as numismatics, is the world’s oldest hobby.

Q3. What are some of the healthy hobbies you should try?

Answer – Here are some of the healthy hobbies you should try –

Learning to cook healthy meals
Going for a long walk
Practicing meditation daily

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10 Best Answers to “What Are Your Interests and Hobbies”

Among the most common interview questions asked by potential employers is “What are your interests and hobbies?” When a hiring manager asks about your personal interests, they are asking if you are a well-rounded individual and if your personal qualities are a match for the company culture.

Let’s review ten excellent answers to this interview question. Then, read more below for some tips and mistakes to avoid, and a sample list of hobbies and interests for crafting your own answer.

10 Best Example Answers about Your Interests and Hobbies

Example #1: volunteering.

“An activity that I am very strongly involved in is volunteering. I try to volunteer two to three times every month at my local homeless shelter. I find it is a great way to give back and have community involvement. It helps me to grow my inner self and avoid becoming self-focused. I enjoy meeting different people, not just other volunteers, but I also hear the stories of the people we help. (This answers the question, and states how often you do it.)

I’ve learned a lot of new things while volunteering. For example, I’ve learned soft skills like compassion, empathy, and active listening that are critical to relating to others. Additional skills and values, such as persistence, are important, too. (This discusses the skills from that hobby or interest.)

There are some weekends when I am tired, and I don’t want to turn up. But I know the others are counting on me, and I take a lot of pride in being a good team player and helping others, so I am always there on time and ready to work hard, regardless of the day.” (This states how the skills will help in the prospective job.)

Example #2: Team Sports

“My greatest interest is in team sports. While I enjoy most team sports, my passion is baseball. I haven’t played in a while as I have been busy job hunting since moving cities. However, before moving, I used to play on a regular basis with a local team. I played in every game possible, which was every Saturday during the season, and turned up to every practice without missing a single one. (Answers the question and states how often.)

Playing on a team requires a lot of skills. In particular, communication skills are important to successful teamwork. I have also been working on my leadership skills, as the more senior players such as myself would help coach, train, teach and motivate the new team members. (Discusses the skills from that hobby or interest.)

I love the fact that team sports require everyone to work together. You can’t win the game unless every single person does what they are supposed to do and works together.” (States how the skills will help in the prospective job.)

Example #3: Fitness and Exercise

“I enjoy a lot of hobbies, and there are several hobbies and interests that I regularly enjoy doing. While I do enjoy reading, various group activities, games, and sports, my favorite activity is working out, specifically strength training. While the gym isn’t my only hobby, it is very important to me to maintain my health and fitness, and I go to the gym three days a week. (Answers the question and states how often.)

Working out is one of those leisure activities that people either love or hate. I love that it pits you against yourself. Your only competition is your own personal best. I am always challenged to be the very best I can be when I am at the gym. While I am always excited when I raise the bar for myself, I find peace and satisfaction in the process. The regular consistency is itself a challenge, and it is satisfying to know that I can hold myself accountable, even on the days I don’t want to be at the gym. (Discusses the skills from that hobby or interest.)

This ability to set and work towards goals, to be reliable and accountable, and to always show up and give 100% is something that I bring to all aspects of my life, and I would bring to this role, too, if I am successful.” (States how the skills will help in the prospective job.)

Example #4: Reading

“I am a voracious reader. I read both fiction and non-fiction, everything from short stories to sagas, self-help, and business books. While I like to always have one fiction and one nonfiction book on the go, it’s not uncommon for me to have several books going at once. I read at least a chapter every single night before bed, but on the weekends or a day off, it’s not uncommon for me to spend several more hours reading. (Answers the question and states how often.)

While I read fiction for enjoyment and love being able to go on an adventure inside my head, I enjoy learning new things and expanding my horizons by reading nonfiction too. (Discusses the skills from that hobby or interest.)

Besides the skills learned by reading, reading is itself a skill that requires both patience and the ability to focus. I credit reading books with helping me to be a well-rounded person. Because I enjoy reading and I am a good reader, I am also a very fast reader and retain almost everything I read. It’s one of those good hobbies that overflows into every other part of life in a positive way. (Discusses more skills.)

If I am hired, you will see my love for reading benefit me as I can learn new skills quickly, I often use internal manuals to teach myself new skills, and because of my good retention of information, I only need to be taught things once to commit them to memory long-term.” (States how the skills will help in the prospective job.)

Example #5: Practicing an Instrument

“One of my favorite pastimes is practicing and playing the piano. I am not very good right now, so most of the time, I am practicing, but I can already play a few basic pieces, and it is very satisfying to play beautiful music. I try to practice for 15 minutes every day and for at least one hour during the weekend. On weekends I try to have dedicated practice time for improving my skills and also some time to just mess around and play one of the pieces I already know. This way, I am always improving, but I can also enjoy the rewards of the effort I have put in already. (Answers the question and states how often.)

It takes a lot of patience to learn, especially at the start when the first 20 or 30 hours of practice, you can’t even play something to enjoy it. It’s just hard work. Now that I can play some full pieces, I find it very relaxing, and it helps me to destress at the end of the day. (Discusses the skills from that hobby or interest.)

If I play before bedtime, I sleep a lot better, and I have seen this reflected in the quality of my work as I am less stressed and better rested.” (States how the skills will help in the prospective job.)

Example #6: Traveling

“My favorite thing to do in my free time is to travel, and I dedicate a lot of time to it. I try to go on one overseas trip every year, but sometimes it is every two years. When I am not traveling overseas, I also like to travel at home and take road trips around my state to see other counties, and on long weekends I often travel to the next state over. I love seeing new places, so if I am not traveling, I am seeking travel inspiration from others on social media, always on the lookout for the best place to go on my next trip. (Answers the question and states how often.)

I enjoy traveling because it is so much more than just the journey. It takes planning, commitment, an openness to new cultures, new people, and a spirit of adventure. Traveling has taught me how to create long-term plans, choose priorities and work towards goals and objectives in an effective manner. (Discusses the skills from that hobby or interest.)

I bring these skills and an openness to learning about people and cultures to the workplace, and I believe I would rapidly become a valuable and cohesive member of any team.” (States how the skills will help in the prospective job.)

Example #7: Playing Board Games

“I have several hobbies and activities that I enjoy participating in. I read and volunteer, and I have outside interests such as hiking and camping, but one of my most frequent hobbies is playing board games. I am a member of a board gaming social group, and we try to meet up twice a month for a couple of hours of gaming. Once every three months, we have a weekend meetup for longer games. (Answers the question and states how often.)

It is difficult to pick just one aspect of board gaming that I enjoy as every game is different. I enjoy the social aspect. We often have anywhere from two up to eight people in one game. Most board games also require strategy and the ability to consider scenarios and a range of possible actions and choose the best option. Some games are also played as teams, so there is a cooperative teamwork aspect while applying strategy and planning too. (Discusses the skills from that hobby or interest.)

In addition, some of our group can get competitive sometimes, so I have had to learn and apply effective interpersonal skills to manage those people so that we can play games and have fun without letting individual emotions ruin the day for others. (Discusses more skills.)

Board gaming is an activity that builds skills relevant to work. We need to work as a team to solve complex problems and interact with different people who can be in different emotional states from day to day, so it is a good way of developing critical thinking skills and social skills while also having fun with friends.” (States how the skills will help in the prospective job.)

Example #8: Spending Time with My Family

“My family is easily the most important thing in the world to me, and because of this, the way I prefer to spend my free time is to relax, socialize and interact with them. It might sound cliché of me to say it, but I spend almost all of my free time with my family because it brings me great joy and happiness to be with my children and watch them play and grow. (Answers the question and states how often.)

We are a very tight-knit family, so whether we are watching tv, playing video games, going to church on Sunday, or exploring the woods on a long weekend, we do almost everything together. There is nothing I wouldn’t do for my family, and this is a big part of why I am an ideal candidate. (Discusses the skills from that hobby or interest.)

I am motivated to provide my family with the best life and the best opportunities that I can and to be able to afford to enjoy our time together. I know that to do this, I need to do well at work, commit to habits of excellence, and go above and beyond to produce exceptional value for the company.” (States how the skills will help in the prospective job.)

Example #9: Being Creative

“The activity that I enjoy the most is being creative. I have several creative skills, including drawing and painting, but I particularly enjoy graphic design. The ability to make something from my imagination come to life on a screen is very satisfying. I use my skills to take on small jobs for friends and family, and I maintain a portfolio of my work online. I used to create art two to three hours per week, but now that I have the core skill, I just work on projects for enjoyment, usually three or four hours most weeks and any weekend that I have free. (Answers the question and states how often.)

I want to get better, and I like seeing what others have done online and exploring the limitations of my abilities. For this reason, I am always looking to incorporate new tools, functions, and techniques into my work. This means that I have the technical skill of graphic design that I bring to the role, but it also demonstrates my ability to be self-directed and self-motivated. I don’t require much oversight, and I am always looking to push myself and develop new skills. I also enjoy sharing my skills with others and helping them to improve their abilities so that we can all become better together.” (Discusses the skills from that hobby or interest and does not explicitly state how the skills will help in the prospective job, but that will be obvious to the interviewer.)

Example #10: Debating

“It is not a very common interest, but one of my passions is debating. In my college days, I was a member of the debate team. In my last town, I was a member of Toastmasters International and would attend many events and particularly liked to participate in debates. While I am not currently active with a local group, I am a member of a private online debate group. We meet up every Wednesday evening for a video chat. (Answers the question and states how often.)

Most weeks, we learn about debate and argument techniques and ways to improve our thinking. At least once a month, we break into teams and have to debate a current topic from the news. We try to form teams arguing the opposite point of view to our personal opinions. I enjoy the friendly but competitive rivalry in the group and the fact that most of the time, we are helping each other, and then occasionally, we have these debate contests. I also like that we are forced to think about issues from the opposite side of what we would like. This means that we need to be very good at critical thought and reasoning and open to new ideas. To debate effectively, we also need to learn to be assertive, think on our feet, and hone strong communication skills. (Discusses the skills from that hobby or interest.)

All of the skills I have developed as a debater I would bring to the position, and I believe they would be valuable in the role.” (States how the skills will help in the prospective job.)

5 Tips to Plan Your Answer

Create a list of hobbies, sports, or interests that you enjoy and any volunteer work you are involved with.
Identify what work-relevant skills you have developed or demonstrated in the activity.
Visit the company’s website and look at the job description and identify what technical skills and soft skills are important to the job role and the company.
Think of some of the best examples of when or how you demonstrated relevant skills or developed a new skill in the activity.
In the job interview, explain to the prospective employer the transferable skills from your hobby or interest and how it is relevant to your job application, and why it makes you the perfect candidate.

5 Mistakes to Avoid in Your Interview Answer

Failing to list hobbies or interests that relate to the job or failing to explain how they relate to the job.
Do not say you use leisure time for partying and drinking and need every Sunday to recover for the next week.
Don’t discuss controversial hobbies. Keep to examples of hobbies that are widely accepted extracurricular activities.
Don’t talk about wasting your spare time or showing a lack of interest and direction in life.
Don’t use examples of hobbies that demonstrate skills, interests, or personality traits that are a strong mismatch for the role.

Sample List of Hobbies and Interests

Charity, volunteering, and community work
Cooking, food and wine experiences, and restaurant dining
Creative activities, art, crafts, and playing music
Educational pursuits, intellectual activities, investing, reading, and book clubs
Entertainment, board games, and video games
Exercise, fitness, and weight training
Gardening and horticulture
Group activities, field sports, and team sports
Motor sports
Outdoor activities and extreme sports
Meditation, bird watching, and other relaxing activities
Family time and activities
Solo sports
Traveling, road trips, and adventure

During an interview, the most important thing to remember is to explain how your hobby or interest relates to the job and keep it relevant to the hiring process. Be genuine and use a real hobby or interest, and be prepared for follow-up questions.

If you don’t have many hobbies or interests, the best way to respond to this question is with a common interest that shows a desirable quality. Reading or playing team sports are examples of the “right hobbies” to use as an interview answer for this question. With adequate preparation, answering this question will be a breeze. Good luck!

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Essays on Academic Interests

What makes a perfect academic interests essay topic.

Choosing the perfect topic for your academic interests essay is not just about showcasing your passion, but also about captivating your readers. Here are some creative ways to brainstorm and select an exceptional essay topic:

Brainstorm : Let your imagination soar as you brainstorm ideas aligned with your academic interests. Consider your favorite subjects, research areas, and impactful experiences that have shaped your academic journey. This will help you generate a diverse range of potential topics to explore.

Reflect on your goals : Dive deep into your aspirations and goals in pursuing your academic interests. How does your chosen field contribute to your personal growth and future career? This reflection will assist you in identifying topics that align perfectly with your ambitions.

Unique perspective : Seek out a topic that allows you to unveil your unique perspective or share your personal experiences. Steer clear of generic topics that have been overdone. Your essay should stand out and offer fresh insights that captivate your readers.

Research potential : Ensure that your chosen topic offers ample research material and access to scholarly resources. This will enable you to effectively provide evidence and support your arguments. Evaluate the availability of academic journals, books, and reputable sources on your topic of choice.

Impact and relevance : Select a topic that holds significant impact on your academic interests or the field as a whole. It should be relevant and contribute to existing knowledge in that area. Choose a topic that allows you to explore new ideas and contribute to the ongoing academic discourse.

A remarkable academic interests essay topic should be engaging, personal, and thought-provoking. It must vividly demonstrate your passion and commitment to the subject matter, while also providing an opportunity for you to showcase your critical thinking and analytical skills.

How to Write Essay about Academic Interests

Writing about your academic interests allows you to showcase your passion for a particular field and highlight your goals and aspirations. Here are some steps to help you effectively write about your academic interests:

1. Introduction

Begin with a brief introduction that captures the reader's attention. Mention the field or subject you are passionate about and why it interests you. Provide a glimpse of what inspired your interest in this area.

2. Personal Connection

Explain how your academic interests relate to your personal experiences, hobbies, or background. Share any specific events or influences that have shaped your passion for this subject. This helps to make your essay more personal and engaging.

3. Academic Experiences

Discuss any relevant academic experiences, such as courses, projects, or research that have deepened your interest in the subject. Highlight any achievements or recognitions you have received in this field. This demonstrates your commitment and expertise.

4. Future Goals

Outline your future academic and career goals related to your interests. Explain how pursuing this field will help you achieve these goals and make a positive impact. Mention any specific programs, internships, or opportunities you are excited about.

5. Conclusion

Conclude by summarizing your academic interests and reiterating your passion for the field. Express your enthusiasm for future learning and contributions. End with a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Example Outline

Introduction: Hook, brief mention of the field of interest, initial inspiration.
Personal Connection: Experiences, hobbies, or background that relate to the interest.
Academic Experiences: Courses, projects, research, achievements.
Future Goals: Academic and career aspirations, specific programs or opportunities.
Conclusion: Summary, reiteration of passion, closing statement.

Exceptional Academic Interests Essay Topics

Looking to make your academic interests essay truly stand out? Here is a collection of 20 unique and captivating ideas to ignite your creativity:

1. Revolutionizing Education: The Futuristic Role of Artificial Intelligence in Shaping Learning

2. Climate Change: A Global Health Crisis - Navigating Policies for a Sustainable Future

3. Literature as a Catalyst: How the Written Word Drives Social Change

4. Unveiling the Universe: Exploring the Enigma of Dark Matter in Astrophysics

5. Psych-Tech Fusion: The Intricate Dance Between Psychology and Technology in Modern Society

6. Ethics in the Mosaic: Cultural Diversity and Its Influence on Business Ethics

7. Genetic Engineering: Unlocking the Pandora's Box of Ethical Dilemmas

8. Breaking Barriers: The Inspiring Journey of Women in STEM

9. Fashion as Identity: Tracing the Evolution of Personal Expression

10. The Power of Narratives: How Stories Shape Societies

11. Social Media's Impact on Mental Health: Navigating the Digital Maze

12. Urbanization vs. Sustainability: Balancing Progress and Environmental Responsibility

13. Melodies of the Soul: Exploring Music's Transformative Effects on Emotional Well-being

14. Renewable Energy: From Past to Present - Paving the Way for a Sustainable Future

15. Animal Testing: An Ethical Quandary in Scientific Research

16. The Socioeconomic Equation: Unraveling Factors Influencing Educational Achievement

17. Media's Role in Democracy: Shaping Public Opinion and Nurturing a Vibrant Society

18. Decoding Decisions: The Intricacies of Human Behavior

19. Crafted Traditions: The Cultural Significance of Traditional Crafts in a Globalized World

20. Pop Culture's Impact on Youth: Navigating the Influences of the Digital Age

Academic Interests Essay Questions

If you desire to delve deeper into your chosen topic, here are ten thought-provoking questions to explore:

1. How does artificial intelligence revolutionize education, and what are the potential benefits and challenges it presents?

2. To what extent does climate change affect global health policies, and how can we mitigate its impact?

3. How does literature serve as a catalyst for social change, and what examples can you provide to support your argument?

4. What evidence supports the existence of dark matter, and how does it contribute to our understanding of the universe?

5. How does the fusion of psychology and technology shape modern society, and what ethical considerations should be addressed?

6. Discuss the cultural diversity challenges faced by businesses, and how can they promote ethical practices within a multicultural environment?

7. Evaluate the ethical implications of genetic engineering and its potential impact on future generations.

8. How do women break stereotypes in STEM, and what measures can be taken to encourage more female participation in these fields?

9. Analyze the influence of fashion on personal identity expression and its role in shaping societal norms.

10. How does social media impact mental health, and what strategies can individuals adopt to maintain a healthy relationship with these platforms?

Creative Essay Prompts

If you seek inspiration for your academic interests essay, here are five creative essay prompts to ignite your imagination:

1. Imagine you have the power to create a new academic discipline. What would it be, and how would it address the challenges of the modern world?

2. Reflect on a specific research project or experiment that sparked your interest in your academic field. Describe the process, your findings, and the impact it had on your academic journey.

3. If you could have a conversation with any influential figure in your academic field, who would it be, and what topics would you discuss? Explain your reasons and the potential insights you hope to gain.

4. Choose a controversial topic within your academic field and present arguments from both sides. Discuss your personal stance and the reasons behind your beliefs.

5. Imagine you are presenting a TED Talk on your academic interests. What would be your main message, and how would you captivate and inspire your audience?

Navigating the World of Academic Interests Essay Writing

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about writing an academic interests essay:

Q: How do I make my academic interests essay engaging for readers?

A: To captivate your readers, infuse your essay with personal anecdotes, captivating storytelling, and vivid examples. Use a conversational tone and ensure that your passion for the subject shines through.

Q: Should I include technical jargon in my academic interests essay?

A: While it's important to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the subject, be mindful of your target audience. Avoid overwhelming them with excessive technical jargon. Strike a balance between showcasing your expertise and making your essay accessible.

Q: Can I discuss multiple academic interests in one essay?

A: While it's possible to discuss multiple interests, it's generally more effective to focus on a single main interest. This allows you to delve deeper into the subject matter and provide a more comprehensive analysis.

Q: How long should my academic interests essay be?

A: The length of your essay may vary depending on the specific requirements. However, aim for a concise and focused essay of around 500-800 words. Remember, quality over quantity is key.

Q: Is it necessary to include a conclusion in my academic interests essay?

A: While a conclusion is not mandatory, it can provide a sense of closure and reiterate your main points. Consider including a brief conclusion to summarize your key arguments and leave a lasting impression on your readers.

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My goal to pursue a career in computer science and engineering, university sop, my intent to take a master’s program in health promotion, why i am here, my academic interests in geographic information sciences, my academic interests in the university of pennsylvania, statement of purpose (information technology and cyber security), motivation letter (bachelor of business administration), statement of purpose (healthcare informatics), my desire to get economical education in keio university, why i want to be a mental health counselor, my aspiration to pursue a career in education, my interest in biology and chemistry, my goal to get a degree in business management, the importance of mental health: why i want to be a psychologist, my motivation to study medicine, my motivation to study management and human resources at a master's level, how the movie hackers got me interested in computer science, interest in the field of environmental engineering.

Academic interests refer to the specific areas of study or subjects that individuals are passionate about and wish to pursue further in their academic endeavors.

Academic interests often stem from personal experiences, curiosity, or a desire to make a positive impact on society.
They can evolve over time as individuals discover new passions or interests.
Academic interests can vary widely, from STEM fields to arts and humanities.
They play a crucial role in shaping career paths and guiding individuals towards fulfilling and meaningful work.
Research shows that pursuing academic interests can lead to increased motivation, engagement, and overall academic success.

Understanding academic interests is important as it helps individuals identify their passions and strengths, leading to more focused and fulfilling academic pursuits. By exploring and nurturing their academic interests, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their goals, ultimately leading to personal and professional growth.

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Importance of Education
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Graduate School

Research Interest Statement Samples That Worked

A good research interest statement sample can be hard to find. Still, it can also be a beneficial tool for writing one and preparing for a grad school application or post-graduate position. Your research interest statement is one of the key components of your application to get into grad school . In a few cases, admissions committees have used it instead of an interview, so it is important to write a strong essay. We’ve provided research interest statement samples for you in this blog post. We have also included several tips that will help you write a strong statement to help improve your chances of getting accepted into your dream program.

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

Article Contents 13 min read

What is a research interest statement.

A research interest statement is essential for most graduate school, post-graduate, and academic job applications. Sometimes, it may be referred to it as a " statement of intent " or "description of research interests." While they are similar, research interest statement may require some additional information. Generally, your statement will pride a brief overview of your research background, including your past research experience, the current state of your research, and the future research you'd like to complete, including any required equipment and collaborations. It is usually written in the form of a short essay. Still, of course, different graduate programs can have specific requirements, so make sure to check the program you are applying to and read the particular instructions that they give to ensure your research interest statement meets their requirements.

Your research statement plays a big role in the committee's decision. Ultimately, they are trying to figure out if you, as a person, and your research, would be a good fit for their program. A strong statement can help you convince them of this by showing your passion for research, your research interests and experience, the connection between your interests and the program, and the extent of your writing skills which is really important for paper and grant writing, and thus for earning money for your research!

Undergraduate programs are centered around classes, but graduate and post-graduate programs are all about your research and what your research contributes to your discipline of choice. That is why a research interest statement is so important, because it is essentially a way for you to share this information with the program that you have chosen.

Writing a strong statement can be helpful to you, as well. Having to explain your research and talk about your goals coherently will give you a chance to define your future research and career plans, as well as academic interests.

What Should Your Research Interest Statement Include?

The exact requirements of the research interest statement can vary depending on where you are applying and for what position. Most faculty positions will need you to produce a separate file for your statement, and most of the time, for an academic program, you can simply include your statement within your CV for graduate school .

Need to prepare your grad school CV? This video has helpful advice for you:

Unless otherwise stated by the program or faculty that you are applying to, your statement should be one to two pages long or between 600 and 1000 words. If you are including your description of interest statements on your resume, then it would be ideal to keep it between 400 and 600 words. Most programs will give you guidelines for the research interest statement so make sure you follow those. They rarely include a specific question or prompt but they might ask for a particular detail to be included in your interest statement. For example, a university’s requirements may look something like this: “In your statement of interest, you should detail your study and/or research interests and reasons for seeking admission. You must identify a faculty member from the Anthropology of Department with whom you are interested in being your advisor. The length of a statement of intent should be 2 pages in length (single-spaced, Times New Roman font size 12 point)”

Your statement should include a brief history of your past research. It should tell the committee what you have previously set out to answer with your research projects, what you found, and if it led to any academic publications or collaborations. It should also address your current research. What questions are you actively trying to solve? You will need to tell the committee if you’ve made any progress, what you have found, if you are connecting your research to the larger academic conversation and what the larger implications of your work actually are. Finally, you want to talk about the future of your research. What further questions do you want to solve? How do you intend to find answers to these questions? What are the broader implications of your potential results, and how can the institution you are applying to help you?

Before we show you some examples, let's go over a few essential things that you need to keep in mind while writing your research interest statement to make sure it is strong.

Preparation

Give Yourself Ample Time: Much like with other components of your application, like your CV or a graduate school interview question , preparation is the key to success. You should give yourself enough time to thoroughly research the program or faculty you are applying to, gather all the information or documents that can aid you in writing, and then write and rewrite as many times as you need to. Give yourself at least 6 weeks to draft, redraft, and finalize your statement. You may also want to consider investing in a graduate school admissions consultant as they have more experience writing these types of essays and may see things that you can’t.

Research the Program/Faculty: The purpose of your research interest statement is to tell the committee all about your research plans, how it will contribute to the field and convince them that not only is their institution is the best place for it, but that you will be an asset to them as a candidate. To do this, you need to know what kind of candidate they are looking for, what kind of research they have been interested in in the past, and if there is anything particular that they require in the research interest statement. Remember, expectations for research statements can vary among disciplines and universities, so it is essential that you write for the right audience.

The Format / Writing Style

Your research statement should be in an academic essay format. It needs to be concise, well-organized, and easy to read. For graduate school, PhD or post-doc positions, your research interest statement will usually be a part of your resume. We recommend that you stick to the following things when it comes to the format:

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The Content

Introduction: This is a functional academic document, unlike college essays or personal statements, so you want to go straight to the point and focus on the key information that needs to be conveyed. You want to use this paragraph to tell the committee why you are writing this statement. In other words, you should clearly state what kind of research you are interested in pursuing at the institution in question and explain why you are drawn to the subject.

Body: This is your “why and how” paragraphs. In 2 or 3 paragraphs, you should expand on your interest, background, accomplishments, and plans in the field of research. Depending on your level of experience, you may use this time to talk about your previous or current research. If you do not have much experience, then you may use this paragraph to talk about any skills or academic achievements that could be relevant.

Conclusion: To conclude, you should restate your interest and tie it back to the research you intend to continue at the university. Be specific about the direction you’d like to take the research in, who you’d like to work with, and what the institution has that would help you. We also suggest including a concise statement that reiterates your unique suitability for the program, and what you can contribute to it and your chosen field.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Being Too Personal: Often, students will confuse the statement of purpose and the research interest statement or letter of intent. It is essential to understand the difference between these two documents because some programs will ask for both of these documents. There is quite a bit of overlap between the two essays, so they are very easy to mix up. Both documents ask applicants to focus on their research interests, relevant past academic & professional experiences, and their long-term goals in the field. However, a statement of purpose is more of a personal statement that describes your journey and overall suitability for a program. In contrast, a research interest statement is a more formal academic document specific to the research you intend to pursue in a program. It will include many details such as the faculty members you want to work with, the program facilities and resources you wish to use, etc.

Not Following Guidelines: As mentioned earlier, these statements can vary depending on the discipline and the faculty. It is crucial that you review all the institution's guidelines and follow them. Some schools will have a specific word count, others may simply give you a maximum and minimum word count. Others may even have a specific prompt or question that you will need to answer with your essay. You want to make sure that you are following the instructions provided by the program.

Using Too Much Jargon: Your statement will be read by people who are most likely knowledgeable, but they might not be from your specific field or specialty. We understand that it may not be possible to be clear about your research without using a few niche words, but try to keep them at a minimum and avoid using acronyms that are not well known outside of your specialty.

Having One Generic Statement: The requirements of your research statement are different from one school to another, and you should tailor your letter to the program you are writing to. We know that the research and experience you are talking about are still the same, but the qualities and aspects of that experience you play up should help you appeal to the school you are applying to. For example, if you are applying to a very collaborative program, you should highlight your collaborations and your experience working as part of a team.

Looking for tips on getting into grad school? This infographic is for you:

Research of Interest Statement Samples

Below are sample research interest statements for reference:

Research Statement of Interest 1

Jennifer Doe

As the child of an immigrant, I have always been fascinated by the relationship between identity, geographic territory, and economic development. With the rise of globalization, there is a broader effort in the social sciences to study the link between cultural identity, human mobility, and economic development in the contemporary world. I hope that my research will contribute to this as well. I am applying to the X University Global Anthropology program, as it is the best place for me to explore my research interests and channel them towards my long-term goals. I believe that my undergraduate education and the research experience it gave me have prepared me to undertake advanced research projects, thus making me an excellent candidate for this program.

I spent the first two years of undergraduate studies taking psychology courses. I went to university knowing that I wanted to learn about human behavior and culture. I was thirsty for information, but I did not know what kind of information just yet. It wasn’t until I took an elective anthropology class in my second year and started discussing identity in anthropology that something clicked. Unlike many other social sciences, anthropology explores the different ways that cultures affect human behavior and that connected right away with my experience as an immigrant. I have been passionate about the subject ever since, and I intend on spending my career exploring this topic further.

In the long run, I am interested in understanding how geography affects the construction of one’s cultural identity, especially when it comes to immigrants. Literature already exists on the topic, but most of it examines the upper levels of this process of social reproduction, concentrating on the roles of governments and associations in promoting ties between migrants and their homelands. Prof. Jane Doe Smith is one of the anthropologists researching the transnational migration experience, and I hope to have the opportunity to work with her at X University.

I was fortunate to be part of a summer research experience as an undergraduate, which took place in several west African countries, including Mali, Senegal, and Nigeria. Dr. Sam Smith was leading the research, and my time on his team allowed me to gain hands-on experience in research while living abroad. One of the things that I did almost daily was interview the subjects in a controlled environment, and sometimes I got to be a part of traditional ceremonies. I learnt how to observe without being intrusive and how to interact with clinical subjects. The experience only strengthened my curiosity and conviction that today more than ever, we need to understand what identity is and the different factors that can affect it.

I enrolled in several challenging research-oriented courses such as Applied Statistical Inference for the Behavioral Sciences, Principles of Measurement, and more throughout my degree. I was also able to work as a research lab assistant for one of my mentors, Mr. Jonathan Smith. I worked with him while he studied the relationship between identity, culture and “self.” My main duties were to assist in the creating of surveys and other assessment materials, administer written and verbal tests to participants, create literature reviews for potential resources, create summaries of findings for analysis and other office duties such as reserving testing rooms. This particular experience allowed me to get some hands-on experience with data collection, data analysis, report preparation and the creation of data summaries.

I know that there is a lot more that I can learn from the X University. I have seen the exemplary work in anthropology and other social studies done by the staff and alumni of this school. It has inspired and convinced me beyond the shadow of a doubt that pursuing my graduate studies in your program meets my personal, academic, and professional goals objectives.

My advanced research skills, passion for anthropology and clinical research, as well as my academic proficiency make me the ideal candidate for X University's Clinical Global Anthropology Master’s program. I believe that X University’s rigorous curriculum and facilities make it the perfect place for me, my long-term career goals and my research commitments.

Jamie Medicine

I am applying to the brain and development master's program of X university because it is one of the few universities that not only has a program that combines the two disciplines that I majored in my undergraduate studies: Psychology and Linguistics; but also because it is a program that I know would allow me to grow as a researcher, contribute to my chosen fields and achieve my long-term career goals. My research is motivated by two of my favorite things: language and music. To be more specific, hip-hop music. In 20xx, Rollingstone magazine published an article stating that hip hop was now more popular than rock and roll. The rise in popularity of this initially very niche genre has sparked a conversation in specific academic fields such as psychology, sociology, linguistics, and English about the use of language within it but also the effects that it can have on those who listen to it. I hope to one day contribute to that conversation by studying the relationship between hip-hop music and vocabulary development, and I believe that pursuing this particular research interest at X university is the best way for me to do that.

There are many potential places this research may lead me and many potential topics I may explore. Furthermore, there are many things that it would allow us to learn about the effect that music has on our brains and society at large.

I was fortunate enough to work under Dr. Jane D. Smith at the University of X for two years while conducting her recently published study on vocabulary instruction for children with a developmental language disorder. During my time in her lab, I interviewed participants and put together evaluation materials for them. I was also responsible for data entry, analysis, and summarizing. This experience gave me the skills and the knowledge that allowed me to exceed expectations for my final research project in undergraduate school.

One of my undergraduate degree requirements was to complete a small independent study under the supervision of a professor. I chose to study music's effect on children's vocabulary development. Several studies look for ways to decrease the million-word gap, and I wanted to see if this thing that I am so passionate about, music, had any effect at all. I compiled multiple literature reviews and analyzed their results, and I found that there is indeed a correlation between the number of words that a child spoke and the amount of music that they were exposed to.

This research is currently being explored on a larger scale by Prof. John Doe at X university and learning from him is one of the many reasons I have applied to this program. I took several research methodology courses throughout my degree, and I would love to enroll in the Applied Statistics for Psychology course he is currently teaching to build upon the foundational knowledge I already have. There are several other faculty members in the brain and language department with whom learning from would be a dream come true. In addition to that, working with them is a real possibility because the research they are currently doing and the research I hope to pursue are greatly matched.

I genuinely believe that X university has the curriculum and facilities that I need to meet my long-term goals and research commitments. I also believe that my academic achievements, eagerness to learn, and passion make me the perfect candidate for your program.

Interested in some tips to help you manage grad school once you're there? Check out this video :

It is essentially an essay that provides a brief overview of your research experience and goals. This includes your past research experience, the current state of your research, and the future research you'd like to complete. It is also sometimes referred to as a "statement of intent" or "description of research interests."

This statement tells the admissions committee more about you as an applicant. It gives you the opportunity to tell them more about your research (past, present, and future) and show them that you are a good fit for their institution.

No. Some graduate school programs might ask for a statement of purpose and a writing sample instead, or they could ask for none of the above. You should always check the requirements of the specific program that you’re applying to.

Generally, your statement should be 400 to 1000 words or about two pages long. That said, most programs will give you guidelines so make sure you check those and follow them.

You certainly can but we do not recommend it. You should always tailor your statement to the program you are applying to. Remember that the aim is to convince the admissions committee that you are a good fit for their school so make sure you highlight the qualities and values that they care about.

We recommend that you doublecheck the information provided by your chosen program as they often have specific instructions for the format of the letter. If none exist, make sure that the format of your document is pleasing to the eye. Stick to easily legible fonts, a decent font size, spacing, margins, etc. Also, it is best to keep the content of the letter concise and professional.

We recommend giving yourself at least 6 weeks to write your statement. This will give you ample time to brainstorm, write a strong letter, read it again and edit it as many times as necessary. It also gives you enough time to get expert eyes on your letter and work with them to improve it if you wish.

No. Research interest statements are often required for post-graduate school applications and for other positions in academic faculties.

Absolutely! You can always reach out to admissions professionals, such as graduate school admissions consultants or grad school essays tutors .

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Thank you for your excellent site

BeMo Academic Consulting

You are very welcome, Rasool!

Sadia Sultana

hello, thanks for providing guide line for Research Interest statement, the important aspect of scholarship application. Kindly guide me, What should be the title of the Research Statement. Thanks

Hi Sadia! Check the requirements of your school first. They might provide some info on whether a title is even needed.

Sadia Tasnim Epa

I'm very pleased that you have mentioned every detail of research interest which helped me to clear all of my doubts.... Thank you very much.

Hi Sadia! Glad you found this helpful!

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How To Write A Letter Of Interest (Sample Templates Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

Updated 5/9/2022

We’ve all been there… You’ve combed all of the job boards in search of the perfect job but, alas, haven’t been able to find anything that’s a great fit. Fortunately, there’s still one more lifeline you have at your disposal, and if used properly, it can end up being one of the most rewarding things you do for your career.

So what is this secret weapon I speak of? A letter of interest, of course!

With a letter of interest, you can connect with more opportunities. Here’s how.

What Is a Letter of Interest?

A letter of interest is a letter you send to your target company, letting them know that you’re interested in working with them. It’s also a way to see if there are any potential job opportunities that match up with your skillset that aren’t openly advertised, allowing you to tap into the hidden job market . Since over 80 percent of jobs go unadvertised, that’s a big deal.

Generally speaking, a letter of interest can be sent at any time regardless of whether a company is actively hiring, as it isn’t sent in response to a specific job opening. Rather, it’s a way of introducing yourself to a company you’re interested in and seeing about the possibility of employment with them.

Letters of interest are sometimes also called letters of inquiry for just this reason. You’re inquiring if they might have a position for you. This is the part of the equation that can be very rewarding. Rather than applying to jobs that aren’t a stellar match, you get to handpick the companies that you contact. Pretty awesome, right? We think so.

Letter of Interest vs. Cover Letter

In many ways, a letter of interest is like a cover letter. However, when it comes to a letter of interest vs. cover letter, there are differences, too.

Generally speaking, cover letters typically target specific, open jobs. With a letter of interest, you’re reaching out even though there isn’t an advertised vacancy.

Since that’s the case, cover letters are more targeted. They speak to a specific position, referencing details from the job ad. Letters of interest are a touch more general, highlighting your strengths in a field and how you could benefit the company in a broad sense without connecting it to a particular role.

How To Write a Letter of Interest

Much like any correspondence you send any employer, you have to make sure that a letter of interest for a job is well crafted and appropriate. You’re introducing yourself to a potential employer, so you want to put your best foot forward.

A poorly written letter of inquiry can potentially make any possibility of working at your dream job with your target company a solid “NO” in the “Do you like me?” boxes. That means you need to ensure you take the time to do it right.

If you do it correctly, a letter of interest is a great way to demonstrate your ability to market yourself and highlight your best qualifications. Plus, it can lead to real opportunities.

Tailoring Your Letter of Interest

As you’ve no doubt seen in our other blog posts, we’re very big on tailoring. Your letter of interest is another opportunity (actually, the first opportunity!) for you to find out exactly what the company is looking for and present yourself as that person.

When applying for a specific position, you have the benefit of using the job description to comb through in search of the qualities that the company puts a lot of value in. But since this is a letter of interest, you are traditionally not applying to a specific position, so you need to be a little more creative. Since that’s the case, you need to do some hardcore research, taking the time to learn about the specific type of people the company likes to hire.

Researching a Company Through Their Online Presence

There is a virtual treasure trove of information available about a company when you peruse its various web properties. Since you’re looking to learn more about the people who get hired to work there, it’s wise to spend time digging into each web property in search of clues.

Quite often, there are “day in the life” videos featuring employee interviews that are incredibly useful. You can also go to the employee list on the company’s LinkedIn page and go through the profiles to see what experience and skills they have.

Putting the “Tailoring Method” To Work

Once you have figured out the types of people that your company hires, you want to do your best to emulate them in your letter of interest. Choose a few skills and abilities that you want to highlight that align with what your research revealed about the employees. Then, start thinking up a quick supporting statement for each one that you use. After all, if you can’t back it up, there is no point in even mentioning it.

Once you have done the research and have uncovered the qualities that you want to showcase, you are ready to begin writing your letter of interest.

Best Letter of Interest Format

Half of the battle is making sure that you nail your letter of interest format. After all, you won’t exactly be making the best first impression if your letter is a convoluted mess that is hard to read and makes no sense.

Here is the basic format for you to follow, which you can see in the three examples we use below:

Your Contact Info

No surprises here. Name, address, telephone number, email, and your website. If you’re not comfortable providing your address or any other information, don’t worry about it. Just make sure they can get in touch with you!

Use a traditional format for the date, writing out the month, followed by the day, and ending with the year.

Company Contact Info

Please don’t start the letter with “to whom it may concern.” Do the research and find a specific person to address the letter to. A good place to start would be a hiring manager, another person in HR, or even better, the manager or director of the department you envision yourself working in.

Opening Paragraph

Introduce yourself and your intentions.

Qualification/Experience Paragraph

Attack this paragraph with two purposes in mind:

Showing how you add value
Demonstrating you have the qualities they value

This is your time to shine. Keep it brief and succinct, picking two to three qualities and supporting them with facts.

Closing Paragraph

Thank them for their time and offer your availability for an “informational interview” at their earliest convenience.

What’s an informational interview? It’s both an opportunity for you to learn more about the company and the various positions within the company AND a great way for you to meet the right people in the organization you are interested in.

More importantly, it’s an opportunity for you to let your award-winning personality shine, and if executed properly, it can help you land a job at the company of your dreams!

Stick with “regards” or just “sincerely,” add your name, and you’ll be good to go.

Common Mistakes

Many people fall into the same traps and make some of these classic letter of interest mistakes. Do your best to avoid these if you want to get your foot in the door!

1. You don’t send a letter of interest at all

Too often, people find a company they’d like to work for and just blindly send in a resume with nothing else attached. Sure, it might be a super impressive resume, but if you don’t include a letter of interest discussing why you’re sending it in and who you are, you might as well just be throwing those resumes away.

On the flip side…DO NOT FORGET TO INCLUDE YOUR RESUME!

2. Sending your letter of interest out with a generic heading

As mentioned above, you need to take the time to do a little digging and find out to who you should address your letter. Sending out a generic “Dear HR Director” or “To Whom It May Concern” isn’t going to win you any brownie points.

3. Not saying what you can do for them, but what they can do for you

Regardless of why you’re interested, remember, it’s about what you can do for them, not what they can do for you! Tell them what you can do to help them achieve their goals.

4. Not tailoring your letter

If you’re going to show initiative by writing a letter of inquiry, make sure that initiative extends to your research as well! Supercharge your letter by highlighting qualities that align with the company values, increasing your odds of success.

5. Being boring

You’re shooting for your target company and your dream job, so don’t simply make a list of all of your skills and abilities. Instead, make sure to dazzle them with what you bring to the table, adding something extra to generate interest.

6. Being too long

Your goal is to catch their attention and leave them wanting more…which means short, sweet, and to the point. Keep your letter under a page.

7. Being sloppy

There is no excuse for typos or sloppy writing. You’re trying to get an informational (or even a full-on) interview, so get these basics right. Check. Double-check, and then check again!

8. Not following up

Yes, you should treat your letter of interest exactly like and job application and follow up.

Sending a letter of interest is a proactive step, so keep being proactive! Ask for a job interview, an informational interview, or a meeting HR director to talk about potential roles you might fill. Then, follow up on that request.

A Few Great Letter of Interest Sample Templates

Now that we have that out of the way, let’s take a look at a few examples so you can get your own started! Here are three different scenarios from which you might decide to write a letter of interest to a company.

Choose the best letter of interest sample that fits with your situation, but don’t simply copy the example word-for-word. You need to input your own experiences and personality, so think of this letter of interest sample as more of a template that will guide you to success!

Letter of interest for your target company following a positive encounter:

Your Address

Your City, State, Zip Code

Your Phone Number

City, State Zip

Dear (remember, make this specific!):

I recently had the opportunity to interact with a few members of your customer support team while conducting research for a project. My time with them was brief but memorable. Your team was friendly, poised, and professional, and I was impressed with their willingness to help and their quick responses to my questions.

It is clear customer satisfaction is an integral part of your company’s core values. It is for this reason that I am writing to you. I feel my own personal values and special talents might benefit your customer service department. I believe in personal accountability and integrity and have always made sure to act in a professional and ethical manner. Attention to detail is similarly a priority, ensuring that my work is nothing short of my best at all times.

If I were to be hired by your company, I would be dedicated to delivering the same kind of high-quality customer service I myself experienced. Both a motivated self-starter and an enthusiastic team player, I feel I’d be an exceptional fit.

In the hopes of scheduling an interview with you or answering any questions you might have, I will call you [upcoming date]. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions at any time at [phone number] or email, [email address].

Thank you for your time in considering my qualifications.

Letter of interest following a write up of the target company:

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,

While reading through a trade publication last week, I came across an article outlining why your company has been recognized as one of the best places to work in the country for tech professionals. Your entire focus has been on making sure that your company is not only a leader in the industry but also an innovator, pioneering new and emerging technology. For this reason, I am sending you my resume in the hopes that I might be able to join your team.

I have worked exclusively within the technology field for the past five years. During that time, I’ve worked in a variety of positions, giving me experience in accounting, including finance and budgeting. I was also responsible for inventory control and vendor relations. I have been instrumental in my past positions in bringing new and emerging technology into our business processes, and I am actively looking for opportunities with companies that would allow me to continue that practice. I believe strongly in always being at the forefront of technological development, a perspective I feel your company has, too.

As a team leader, I am proud of the fact that not only have we never missed a deadline but that we have come in under budget while delivering superior results every time. I firmly believe in the integrity and professionalism of my work, striving to ensure that every aspect of what I do also upholds the company’s core values.

I will call you on [date] to answer any questions about this letter or my resume in the hope of scheduling an interview. If you prefer, please contact me by phone [phone number] or email, [email address].

Letter of interest for a recent graduate looking for work:

I read about [company name]’s retail management training program in [publication name], and I would like to inquire about the possibility of openings. As a recent graduate from the University of California with a degree in Business Management, I am very interested in a career in retail management, and think your program is a perfect match for both my skills and my experiences. I have over five years of retail experience, including time as a Sales Associate and a Manager.

Along with this letter, I have included my resume, which contains additional information on my experience and skills. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss the training program with you and to provide further information on my candidacy. I can be reached anytime via my cell phone, [phone number], or by email at [email address].

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this exciting opportunity.

Putting It All Together

Now, you should know all you need to about the amazing letter of interest! Remember, each sample letter of interest above is meant to serve as inspiration. When you create yours, remember to keep it targeted, short, and professional. That way, you increase your odds of getting a response.

And as always,

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Essay on Your interests and personality Your academic objectives Your goals

Sahar45 1 / 2 Dec 15, 2011 #1 I grew up in a normal family with 3 siblings, so my childhood days were fantastic and full of enjoyment. My father had a stable career and my mother is housewife. My academic record is good as I spent most of the time on studies, but along this I like to hang out with my friends and family and play indoor and out door games. I like to read books. It helps me to enhance my vocabulary and increase my reading ability. I read novels and sometime informative books too. I am also interested in art work. Use to make flowers through ribbons and decorating my room by spraying the walls and stuff like this. Even I am thinking to join any art school along my studies. During my school time I had selected for most of non-academic program like fund raising program and attending seminars. I used to participate in school day functions and perform number of tableau and skits. I believe on social work and want to join organizations who work for others. I am also interested in operating electronic devices like radio, toys, computer, and cell phones. This is the reason I choose engineering. I have completed my high school studies from Peshawar with very good grades. Through out my school period I used to get at least more than 75% in all the exams. I got A grade in metric. After that I got admission in high school and completed FSc with 81%, A grade. And now I am doing electrical engineering from CECOS University Peshawar. Its my third year and after my engineering I will apply for master. As the graduates of the Electrical Engineering program are grounded in scientific, mathematical, and technical knowledge through coursework that keeps pace with current relevant technologies; the engineers develop the ability to analyze, synthesize, and design engineering systems through their immersion in the problem-based activities of this research university; and, by means of general education courses, they enhance their ability to communicate and acquire an understanding and appreciation for other areas of human intellectual achievement. On the basis of this principle I want to research on the problem-based activities. USA is consider to be a head of education for us now a days so I think it is a big opportunity for me to learn form a nation like USA. The main reason for me to study in USA is that I want to make comparison between the engineer of USA and my country. I want to know their method of teaching and studying. I want to work with the engineers at their labs. And to get more about engineering which is not been studied in our country. Along this I wish to meet the people of USA and to know their lifestyle, the way they communicate, their daily routine. I also want to learn some social and art work there. And last but not the least reason for me is to explore the beauty of USA. This program will be very helpful in developing my leadership skills so that I can join one of the best companies and become a leading employee after I graduate. Please check my essay and help me if I have done any mistakes! Thank You!

emanon 4 / 16 Dec 15, 2011 #2 Is this an essay that contains different parts you want to share with Admission Officers? Personally, I found it a little too casual in that you have shown few connections between different topics, and the wording is colloquial as well... I think a more cohesive essay will be more impressive. Hope it helps~

OP Sahar45 1 / 2 Dec 16, 2011 #3 actually it is an Essay and i want you to check it, if i had done mistakes then correct them.

OP Sahar45 1 / 2 Dec 17, 2011 #4 beta ye sab jo showbazian apne mari hain na ye band krdain n bhol jayn. asa kch b nai hne wala apki life mai jab tak mai zinda hoon. Asad Raza

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IMAGES

SOLUTION: Letter of interest essay examples
📌 Statement of Research Interests
How to Write a 500 Word Essay & How Many Pages Is It? + Examples
Academic Interests
College Essay Format: Simple Steps to Be Followed
Statement of Research Interests-example

COMMENTS

My Hobbies and Interests: Short Essay
My Personal Favorite Hobbies. There are many hobbies to pick from, like drawing, painting, reading, sewing, crafts, embroidery, knitting, cooking, pet care, coin collecting and so many more. Personally, my favorite hobbies are as follows: Gardening is one of my most rewarding hobbies. 1. Gardening.
How to Write an Essay about Your Interests
Step 1. Plan the word count for each paragraph. Planning the word count for each of your essay's paragraphs will help you organize your ideas, which makes it simpler and quicker for you to write any essay. Essays have three important parts: The introductory paragraph. Three body paragraphs.
Writing a Great Academic Interest Essay (with Examples)
Step 3: Outline & Write. I. Introduction: Hook your reader into your topic with your first sentence, and expand on your academic interest throughout your introduction. II. Body: Provide more details and introduce your reader to the problem, question, puzzle, or implications that keep you intrigued. III.
Hobbies and Interests Essay Writing Strategy
Essay about hobbies and interests is about you. Focus on why the interest is important to you, making sure to highlight its relevance to other areas of your life and what you have learned from it. Demonstrate passion, devotion, and leadership skills, as these are all character traits admissions officers seek in future college students.
The Beginner's Guide to Writing an Essay
Come up with a thesis. Create an essay outline. Write the introduction. Write the main body, organized into paragraphs. Write the conclusion. Evaluate the overall organization. Revise the content of each paragraph. Proofread your essay or use a Grammar Checker for language errors. Use a plagiarism checker.
Common App Essay Prompt 1: Background, Identity, Interest, or Talent
Dos and Don'ts for Common App Essay Prompt 1. Don't write about your interest or talent in football if your Common App activities already indicate you are captain of the team and won the state championship: your interest is fully indicated in the activities section of the application. Don't write about the fact that you are Chinese if ...
Hobbies Essay: Topics, Writing Tips, Examples, & My Hobby Essay Outline
🗂️ Hobby Essay: 3 Writing Rules. Here we will give some advice and discuss common mistakes in a "My hobbies" essay. Follow these rules to prepare your paper wisely. Essay on Hobbies Rule#1 Choose the Topic. First of all, you need to ensure that the hobby essay title you chose is appropriate to your paper's length.
How to Write About Your Research Interests
Here are the two things that a great statement of research interests or SOP will do: It will clearly illustrate to the admissions committee that you possess a depth of interest and comprehension in your field and that you understand what goes into research. You will sound naïve if you talk about ideas that are too vague or nebulous, or ones ...
How to Write an Essay on Personal Interests & Career Goals
Essays on personal interests and career goals are often required of those applying for undergraduate or graduate programs, internships and jobs. They are similar to other essays in the basic layout and format, but are focused exclusively on the interests and goals related to what you are applying for. For instance, if ...
How to Write an Interest Essay?
Hi! Writing a 'Why Us?' essay can be a bit tricky, but I'm here to help. The key to a standout interest essay is research and personalization. Here are some tips to make your essay specific and genuine: 1. Do your homework: Thoroughly research the college and its programs, departments, and resources. Go beyond just looking at the college's main website - explore individual departments, student ...
Essay on My Hobby for Students and Professionals
An essay on 'my hobby' gives the admission committee insight into your life and you as a person. It shows them how your interests and hobbies have a role in your life and how much of a creative and intellectual person you are, apart from your academic excellence. It also gives a clear view of your skills and values.
How to Write the "Academic Interests" Supplemental Essay
Here's how. 4 Tips on How to Write This Well. 1) Share honest stories about yourself and how you became interested in these subjects. Origins of interest sound like this: "I've never seen my father angrier than the day I took our family television apart just to see how it worked.
53 Stellar College Essay Topics to Inspire You
Once you've chosen a general topic to write about, get out a piece of paper and get to work on creating a list of all the key details you could include in your essay. These could be things such as the following: Emotions you felt at the time. Names, places, and/or numbers. Dialogue, or what you or someone else said.
3 Ways to Write About Your Hobbies and Interests
Simply say that you bike regularly and participate in races. 3. Choose the interests you include carefully. Don't list an interest if you're not actually passionate about it — if it comes up in an interview, your lack of passion and knowledge will give you away as a resume passer.
Essay on My Hobby for Students and Children
500+ Words Essay On My Hobby. Hobbies play a very important role in our lives. They occupy our minds when we are free and also make us happy. Hobbies are our escape from the real world that makes us forget our worries. Moreover, they make our lives interesting and enjoyable. If we look at it, all our hobbies are very useful for us.
How to Answer "What Are Your Hobbies and Interests?" (Example Answers
Here are the great examples of how to answer "what are your interests and hobbies," with one showcasing a hard skill, one showcasing a soft skill, and one focused on culture fit. 1. Hard Skill. Usually, you'll want to focus on a hard skill you learned through a hobby when the capability is relevant to the role, and you don't have any on ...
My hobby essay
Tips to write a 'My hobby essay'. Prepare a strong outline for the essay to ensure that it is well written with no gaps in the framework. Don't write about hobbies that you do not have in real life. Maintain your authenticity, as that will help you produce a meaty essay. Instead of continuously talking about how your hobby makes you feel ...
10 Best Answers to "What Are Your Interests and Hobbies"
Example #3: Fitness and Exercise. "I enjoy a lot of hobbies, and there are several hobbies and interests that I regularly enjoy doing. While I do enjoy reading, various group activities, games, and sports, my favorite activity is working out, specifically strength training.
Academic Interests Essay
Navigating the World of Academic Interests Essay Writing. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about writing an academic interests essay: Q: How do I make my academic interests essay engaging for readers? A: To captivate your readers, infuse your essay with personal anecdotes, captivating storytelling, and vivid examples.
Research Interest Statement Samples That Worked
A good research interest statement sample can be hard to find. Still, it can also be a beneficial tool for writing one and preparing for a grad school application or post-graduate position. Your research interest statement is one of the key components of your application to get into grad school.In a few cases, admissions committees have used it instead of an interview, so it is important to ...
How To Write A Letter Of Interest (Sample Templates Included)
2. Sending your letter of interest out with a generic heading. As mentioned above, you need to take the time to do a little digging and find out to who you should address your letter. Sending out a generic "Dear HR Director" or "To Whom It May Concern" isn't going to win you any brownie points.
College Essays That Worked And How Yours Can Too
Best 5% Interest Savings Accounts of 2024 By. Cassidy Horton. Contributor. Finding Connections: Humor And Self-Reflection ... For Your Essay: To write an essay that explores your identity through ...
Essay on Your interests and personality Your academic objectives Your goals
Essay on Your interests and personality Your academic objectives Your goals. Sahar45 1 / 2. Dec 15, 2011 #1. I grew up in a normal family with 3 siblings, so my childhood days were fantastic and full of enjoyment. My father had a stable career and my mother is housewife. My academic record is good as I spent most of the time on studies, but ...
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