Stanford Essay Examples from Admitted Student
FRANCESCA
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.
The concept of “equity” drives my intellectual curiosity. It’s not a fixed definition, but a living principle, shaped by history, culture, and individual circumstances. My interest in public policy stems from a desire to better understand this evolving framework and to contribute to shaping it in practice.
Interpreting government forms for neighbors at our community center, I saw how access to opportunity is often limited by bureaucratic language and lack of guidance. That experience motivated me to bridge gaps between institutions and the people they serve. I became fascinated by the power of policy to open doors, but also aware of its potential to reinforce barriers.
Studying landmark legislation, such as the Civil Rights Act, I’m energized by how policy decisions reshape daily life. I’m eager to explore political science and legal theory in college to understand how laws and governance influence social change.
My interest also extends to communication. I see the potential of documentary filmmaking to uncover inequities and spark dialogue, complementing the role of public policy in creating solutions. The storyteller’s pursuit of clarity aligns with my pursuit of equity.
Economics ties these interests together. Learning how wage gaps or housing policies affect working families, particularly immigrants in my community, has sharpened my resolve to study economic systems. Ultimately, I see policy, communication, and economics as interconnected paths toward a more equitable society—a pursuit I am eager to continue in college.
Virtually all of Stanford's undergraduates live on campus. Write a note to your future roommate that reveals something about you or that will help your roommate -- and us -- know you better.
Hey Roommate,
I’m excited (and a little nervous) to be sharing a room with you! Since we’ll be seeing a lot of each other, here are a few things you should probably know about me.
First, I have a soft spot for puzzles. Crosswords, Rubik’s cubes, brain teasers ... you name it. You’ll probably catch me sprawled on the floor surrounded by half-finished grids or twisting a cube during study breaks. It’s not just about solving them; it’s about the patience and creativity they demand. Feel free to join in. I love tackling challenges as a team.
Second, I sometimes get lost in thought. You might find me staring at a blank page or doodling diagrams on sticky notes when I’m wrestling with an idea. Don’t worry, I’m not ignoring you! In fact, I welcome interruptions. A fresh perspective has saved me from more than a few dead ends.
Another thing: I’ll probably try to sneak a small keyboard into our room. Music is how I unwind, and sometimes I’ll play around with simple tunes late at night. Nothing too loud—I promise headphones exist—but it’s my way of keeping stress at bay.
Finally, I like to keep our space lively. I’ll bring a plant or two (succulents, so I don’t kill them), and maybe some goofy posters. My goal is for our room to feel like a place where we can both relax, laugh, and find inspiration.
Looking forward to meeting you and starting this next adventure.
Please describe what aspects of your life experiences, interests and character would help you make a distinctive contribution as an undergraduate to Stanford University.
My multicultural background, resilience, and commitment to building connections would allow me to bring a valuable perspective to the Stanford community. Growing up in a household shaped by both Latin American and Middle Eastern traditions gave me an appreciation for diversity and a sensitivity to cultural nuance. Celebrating different holidays, languages, and cuisines taught me to navigate complexity with curiosity and respect, and I naturally find myself encouraging dialogue between people whose perspectives might not otherwise meet.
My experience co-leading our school’s Global Perspectives Club sharpened my communication and leadership skills. Planning cultural showcases, moderating student panels, and facilitating small-group conversations taught me how to create spaces where people feel both seen and heard. At Stanford, I hope to continue that work by organizing campus dialogues and workshops that highlight the richness of diverse voices.
Equally formative was the challenge of supporting my younger brother through a learning disability diagnosis. Balancing my own responsibilities with helping him navigate school taught me patience, adaptability, and empathy. It also showed me how resilience is not just about perseverance but about finding strength in community and relationships.
Together, my cultural fluency, leadership experience, and personal resilience have shaped me into someone who values collaboration and care. At Stanford, I hope to help foster a campus environment where students learn from one another’s differences, support each other through challenges, and work together to create a community that feels both inclusive and empowering.
What is the most significant challenge that society faces today?
Societal division, intensified by misinformation, erodes trust in institutions and in one another. This distrust stalls progress on urgent challenges like climate change, healthcare, and education. Rebuilding connections through empathy, open dialogue, and critical thinking is essential to forging a more unified and resilient future.
How did you spend your last two summers?
Spent mornings volunteering at a local literacy program, guiding younger students through reading exercises. Afternoons I alternated between designing a time-management app and experimenting with family recipes. Weekends were filled with soccer practices and mentoring middle school students in basic robotics at the neighborhood youth center.
What historical moment or event do you wish you could have witnessed?
The invention of the polio vaccine by Jonas Salk in 1955. Witnessing this milestone in public health would highlight how persistence, collaboration, and scientific vision can change the course of history. It’s a reminder that transformative progress often arises when determination meets an urgent need.
Briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work or family responsibilities.
As a dance troupe leader, I choreographed performances that blended contemporary and traditional styles while mentoring younger dancers. Guiding rehearsals taught me patience and creativity, and every performance reminded me how movement can communicate across cultures, turning individual expression into a shared story that unites both performers and audience.
List five things that are important to you.
Intellectual curiosity drives me to keep asking questions. Cross-cultural understanding helps me connect across differences. Environmental stewardship reminds me of my responsibility to the planet. Lifelong learning keeps me growing beyond the classroom. And meaningful connections with others ground me.