how to write university of pittsburgh essays

University of Pittsburgh 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide 

University of pittsburgh 2023-24 application essay question explanations.

The Requirements: 1 essay of 200-300 words

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Oddball

Hello, future University of Pittsburgh grads. (We’re speaking it into existence!) The prompt below is only for applicants who wish to apply to Pitt Honors. Let’s dive in!

In lieu of an essay or personal statement, we ask interested applicants to answer a short answer question. The Admissions Committee reviews responses for quality rather than length. However, the most effective responses typically range from 200-300 words per question. Responses that are longer or shorter are acceptable. The question is required for Pitt Honors consideration.

Please select one of these questions., what is something you would like to see change in the world explain why..

The Admissions Committee wants to accept ambitious students who want to change the world for the better. So, if you could change anything in the world, what would it be? Take some time to brainstorm and write down anything that comes to mind. Maybe, if you had the power, you would make sure that no one in your city went to bed hungry. Why is this particular issue important to you? What steps would you take to enact this change? If, after reading this prompt, you immediately thought of something on the sillier side (flying cars! superpowers! robot dogs!), don’t be afraid to explore that topic and why it matters, too. As long as you are giving admissions better insight into who you are and what makes you tick, you’re on the right track. Let your imagination run wild and show the University of Pittsburgh admissions committee that you aren’t afraid to dream big.

If you had 10 minutes and the attention of a million people, what would your TED Talk be about?

We at CEA love this question because it’s a unique way of asking applicants the following questions: What do you care about and why? What’s important to you? What information do you wish other people had access to? Start by making a list of topics you could discuss or read about for hours. Maybe you’d like to use your TED Talk platform to speak about media literacy and how we can and should consider what we see online through the lens of the powers that dictate how and when we receive information. Perhaps you’d want to discuss AI art, plagiarism, and how it threatens human artists’ livelihoods. What keeps you up at night? What kind of positive effect do you want to have on the world? These are the questions you should be asking yourself when brainstorming for this prompt. Bonus points if you can speak to how a Pittsburgh education will prepare you to address this issue head-on in the future! 

What does it mean to be “educated”?

Since this question is for those applying to the honors college, we can assume that most applicants answering it are high-achievers in the traditional sense. But we all know that’s not the only type of education out there. Pitt is looking for a deeply considered, creatively written essay , so as we here at CEA so often recommend, grab a sheet of paper and start brainstorming! Which words, feelings, or characteristics do you associate with the word “educated?” Are there any people you can think of—people in your life, thought leaders, or even fictional characters—who don’t have a formal education but whom you would consider to be highly educated? What different kinds of education can you think of? In what ways are they different and in what ways are they fundamentally the same? Bonus points if you can describe how a Pitt degree would educate you in more than one way! 

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University of Pittsburgh Secondary Essays: Tips & Prompts

• Cracking Med School Admissions Team

University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine cares deeply about social issues and recruiting a student body that solves healthcare issues through innovation . Pitt Med champions the fight against healthcare disparities. But, it wants medical students who approach these problems through out-of-the-box thinking and creative approaches. The University of Pittsburgh Medical School secondary application essay prompts reflects these values. Read all our University of Pittsburgh secondary essays tips below!

We would strongly recommend submitting the University of Pittsburgh early and it should be one of the first secondaries you submit. The prompts barely change each year, so we would also recommend pre-writing your Pitt Med secondaries. Dr. Rachel Rizal and Dr. Rishi Mediratta have strong a track record of helping our mentees receive acceptances to the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.  Read our tips below and contact us if you need help with your UPitt Med secondary essays.  

• Personally Tailored Essays
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University of Pittsburgh Medical School Secondary Application Essay Prompts: 2023 – 2024

University of pittsburgh secondary essays: md prompts.

• Tell us about a challenging problem you faced and how you resolved it. (250 words max)
• At UPSOM, diversity and inclusion are measures of distinction, integral to achieving institutional excellence, and essential to the development of future physicians who become leaders in medicine. Describe how you have demonstrated a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the past, and how you hope to grow that commitment in medical school. (250 words max)
• Please write about anything else you would like to add to your application, or anything you would like to emphasize to the Admissions Committee. (250 words max)

University of Pittsburgh Secondary Essays: MSTP (MD/PhD) Essay Prompts

• Choose current graduate program of interest, choose 3 faculty from a given list, provide up to 2 additional faculty you could see yourself working with in graduate school, and then:
• Briefly describe what appeals to you about the faculty member(s) in your selection, and how the selected graduate program and our MSTP match your interests.

Tips to Answer UPitt Secondaries

University of Pittsburgh Secondaries Pre-Writing  Guidance:  We would strongly encourage medical school applicants to pre-write their University of Pittsburgh seconadries. The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Admissions Committee reviews applications on a rolling basis and gives interviews on a rolling basis. But, it’s still important that you submit a strong University of Pittsburgh secondary application that is aligned with the school’s mission of innovation to improve health & society. If you need help with brainstorming or editing your secondary essays, contact us below!

• Download  all  our HIGH-YIELD tips for secondary essays:  Cracking Med School Admissions Secondary Essay Guide

University of Pittsburgh Secondary Essays Tip #1:  First, it’s important to know what UPitt looks for. These are qualities we’ve seen in medical school applications that receive interviews:

• Any background in engineering or math. 
• Innovation and creativity – especially shown in the problem-solving essay.
• Desire to improve healthcare and medicine through analytical thinking (not necessarily through research; you could have a desire to invent a new medical device!) throughout one’s medical career.
• Experiences solving problems in teams – shown in your primary application, letters of recommendation, and University of Pittsburgh secondary essays

This is the mission of University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine:

One needs to be creative as a clinician because, despite all of the advances of modern medicine, each patient is unique, and diagnoses are not always obvious. One needs to be creative as an investigator because research, by its very nature, involves a quest for that which is unknown and, if discovered, constitutes the next piece of the vast, intricate puzzle we call life.

Compassion is a core principle of all the healing professions and should be the constant “north star” for any health care provider. One will be seeing people who are sick, at their most vulnerable, most freighted and dependent state. In that encounter, beyond any specific prescribed treatments for their illnesses, compassion is the most powerful healing act we can perform.

One needs leadership skills if one hopes to address the extremely complicated problems that we face in the delivery and financing of our nation’s health care. As a leader, one needs to embody the principles of justice and fairness and constantly strive to reduce health disparities in our society. Clearly, on this matter in particular, not to be part of the solution is to be part of the problem, which makes good leadership skills essential. 

University of Pittsburgh Secondary Essays Tip #2: For the University of Pittsburgh secondaries question, “ Tell us about a challenging problem you faced and how you resolved it. Include how the experience contributed to the person you are today, ” do not talk about difficulties with transitioning to college or learning how to study for difficult premed classes. These are too common and will not allow you stand out! 

Topics of strong UPitt essays Dr. Rachel Rizal & Dr. Rishi Mediratta have read:

• Research challenge
• Engineering project at school
• Public health challenge and developing a new program to tackle a public health issue

University of Pittsburgh Secondary Essays Tip #3: You should ideally incorporate an example from your own life about how you have already contributed in combating systemic discrimination or how you’ve already tackled healthcare disparity issues, “ At UPSOM, diversity and inclusion are measures of distinction, integral to achieving institutional excellence, and essential to the development of future physicians who become leaders in medicine. Describe how you have demonstrated a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the past, and how you hope to grow that commitment in medical school .” Some students have successfully discussed a story through patient care or from a clinical experience. 

University of Pittsburgh Secondary Essays Tip #4: University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine is a very community-oriented medical school. Talk about how you want to engage at University of Pittsburgh and around the Pittsburgh community as a medical student. How will you bring in problem solving, research, and innovative thinking to improve the Pittsburgh community? You can include your ideas in your various UPitt secondaries. 

• Read our Cracking Med School Admissions Top 10 Current events to gather ideas about how you can help communities!

University of Pittsburgh Secondary Essays Tip #5: Don’t forget to incorporate a little bit about “Why University of Pittsburgh Medical School” throughout the essay(s) you respond to. Talk about projects and research you want to do at UPitt Med. 

• Read out helpful blog post:  Why this Medical School? Secondary Essay Example

University of Pittsburgh Secondary Essays Tip #6: Have questions about how you can stand out? Contact us below. If you want help with editing your UPitt Med secondary application, we can help you through our secondary essay packages . 

[ Read Essay Tips From Other Innovative Medical Schools:  Yale School of Medicine; Stanford School of Medicine; Duke School of Medicine; Mount Sinai Icahn Medical School ]

Your medical school application Coaches, Mentors, & Cheerleaders

We Personally Advise Every Student We Work With.

Rachel Rizal, M.D.

Changing the trajectory of people’s lives.

Undergraduate Princeton University, cum laude

Medical School Stanford School of Medicine

Residency Harvard, Emergency Medicine

Awards & Scholarships Fulbright Scholar USA Today Academic First Team Tylenol Scholarship

Rishi Mediratta, M.D., M.Sc., M.A.

Advising students to attend their dream schools.

Undergraduate Johns Hopkins University, Phi Beta Kappa

Residency Stanford, Pediatrics

Awards & Scholarships Marshall Scholar Tylenol Scholarship Global Health Scholar

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University of Pittsburgh Medical School Secondary Application Essay Prompts: 2022 – 2023

• Worded slightly differently. At UPSOM, diversity and inclusion are measures of distinction, integral to achieving institutional excellence, and essential to the development of future physicians who become leaders in medicine. Describe how you have demonstrated a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the past, and how you hope to grow that commitment in medical school.  (250 words max)

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University of Pittsburgh Medical School Secondary Application Essay Prompts: 2021 – 2022

• UPSOM is committed to building a diverse and talented community that will train physicians in delivering culturally competent, person-centered care, and promoting a supportive, collaborative learning environment. To achieve this, we want our fellow students to recognize health disparities and advocate for health equity. We are interested in combating all forms of systemic barriers, and would like to hear your thoughts on opposing specifically: systemic racism, anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination, and misogyny. How will you contribute? (250 words max)

University of Pittsburgh Medical School Secondary Application Essay Prompts: 2020 – 2021

University of pittsburgh medical school secondary application essay prompts: 2019 - 2020, university of pittsburgh medical school secondary application essay prompts: 2018 – 2019, upitt md application essay prompts.

• UPSOM is a culturally diverse and talented community. How would you enrich/enliven the UPSOM community? (250 words max)
• Is there anything additional that you would like to address that is not already reflected in your application? (250 words max)

University of Pittsburgh Medical School Secondary Application Essay Prompts: 2017 – 2018

University of pittsburgh medical school secondary application essay prompts: 2016 – 2017, university of pittsburgh medical school secondary application essay prompts: 2015 – 2016, contact us with questions, we'll answer any and all your questions about medical school we typically respond within 1 business day..

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, tips for writing a strong pitt personal statement.

I'm working on my personal statement for the University of Pittsburgh application. Any tips or suggestions on how to make it stand out? What qualities are the admissions officers looking for in a strong personal statement?

When writing a strong personal statement for the University of Pittsburgh, consider the following tips to ensure it stands out:

1. Know your audience: Admissions officers at Pitt want to see a deep understanding of your interests and values, so focus on showcasing who you are as an individual. They appreciate students who have a clear sense of direction and can contribute positively to the campus community.

2. Be authentic: Allow your true self to shine through in your writing. Avoid trying to sound overly formal or impressive; instead, use your voice and genuine stories to illustrate your points. Authenticity is much more compelling and memorable than cliché phrases or grandiose language.

3. Show, don't tell: Use concrete examples and specific details to illustrate your experiences, characteristics, and goals. Instead of simply stating an attribute you possess, describe a particular experience or situation that demonstrates it. This allows the admissions officers to better visualize your experiences and gives them more context.

4. Demonstrate a connection to Pitt: Research the unique aspects of the University of Pittsburgh and its programs, and showcase your compatibility with the institution. Explain how the resources and opportunities at Pitt align with your goals, interests, or values. This demonstrates that you have taken the time to research the university and shows that you are truly interested in attending.

5. Be concise and organized: A well-structured essay is easier to read and understand. Pay attention to the flow of your personal statement by organizing your thoughts into clear paragraphs. Make sure you're adhering to the word limit (if there is one) and use clear, concise language to convey your message effectively.

6. Edit and revise: After completing your initial draft, take the time to revise and polish your personal statement. Check for grammatical errors, improve sentence structure, and ensure your essay flows smoothly. It's also a good idea to get feedback from a friend, family member, or teacher you trust to provide honest and constructive criticism.

7. Emphasize your "spike": Highlight a particular aspect of your application that distinguishes you from others. This may include an academic achievement, a unique extracurricular activity, or a personal challenge you overcame. This "spike" helps you stand out and provides a vivid picture of the kind of student you'll be at Pitt.

To learn more about these essays, read the following blog post: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-university-of-pittsburgh-essays/

Remember, a strong personal statement showcases your personality, experiences, and aspirations in a thoughtful and engaging manner. By following these tips and intentionally crafting your essay to reflect your uniqueness, you will increase your chances of making a lasting impression on the University of Pittsburgh admissions officers.

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University of Pittsburgh Admission Essays

Intellectual growth at university of pittsburgh.

As I contemplate the next chapter of my academic journey, I find myself drawn to the University of Pittsburgh, a place where intellectual prowess converges with the spirit of inclusivity. I am captivated by the institution’s commitment to fostering a diverse and culturally vibrant community,…

Jackie Robinson Scholarship to Save the Agricultural Industry in Rwanda

I am applying for this Jackie Robinson scholarship as an opportunity to get a higher education because I want to pursue my career in agriculture to contribute in maximizing farming productivity in Rwanda. In my country over 81% of Rwandan survive on farming. Almost all…

Medical School: My Path to Become a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine

What to do to become a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine? When asked where I see myself after graduation, it hasn’t always been easy for me to give a concrete answer. Something I do know for certain is that I am excited by the idea of…

Pharmacy Cover Letter: Applying for Studying at the University of Pittsburgh

This is a cover letter, examples pharmacist application for future studies. Pharmacists have a crucial role in the healthcare profession, and it is the patient centred care and expert understanding of medication that drives me to further my knowledge in this field. My experience of…

Creating a Feast for the Senses

As I began my college search, I quickly realized that the University of Pittsburgh was the perfect fit for me. From its renowned business department to its bustling city atmosphere, I knew that I wanted to be a part of this community. My passion for…

The Van Ride Home: College Admission Essay Sample

The van was parked on the third floor of the parking garage, meaning the team had to walk almost 15 minutes together in near silence. Mark was raving, twirling his fingers and vitriolically murmuring something to himself. Devon and Tristan moved liked zombies, only sharing…

The Job That Changed My Life: College Admission Essay Sample

I work in one of the most loved, yet most hated industries in the world. Criticism comes from all angles in the fast food business – whether the guests’ food is not prepared to their liking, their table isn’t as clean as they would like…

Overcoming Failure: College Admission Essay Sample

Even as a kid, I always had a strong entrepreneurial spirit. I tried making a neighborhood newspaper, crafting homemade walking sticks, and even selling my Pokemon cards. One of my biggest business endeavors featured 11-year-old me digging out a patch of my backyard to plant…

Art Destroys Silence: College Admission Essay Sample

Every single time I step onto a stage, I feel as though I could faint. The only noise that breaks through the silent auditorium is the stepping of heels against the hardwood floor as I approach the middle of the stage. I take a deep…

Asking Why Not: College Admission Essay Sample

One year ago, on a muggy summer morning, I boarded a plane with some of my classmates and teachers, headed for Ecuador. The trip was intended to reveal a different world to us, as well as aid a local elementary school in a state of…

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Detailed Essay, Thesis and Dissertation Rules

Before you start.

In addition to these format instructions, be sure you are aware of the following: 

• general requirements for the research and document as specified by your department and your advisor
• rules regarding committee or readers

Before you finish

Early in the term in which you intend to graduate, you should start looking at the detailed information on how to submit the electronic essay, thesis or dissertation on Pitt Public Health's graduation information page . Questions should be directed to the school's Office of Student Affairs. 

Many students have found the following description of the components of a typical thesis/dissertation helpful as they begin to plan the layout of the document. Some essay writers may also choose to use this format. 

You will also find it useful to refer to a style guide such as Strunk and White's  Elements of Style  or the  Chicago Manual of Style . Consult with your department and/or advisor about recommended style guides. 

You may find it useful to use software such as  Endnote  for managing your bibliography.

Your basic source for format instructions is the  University’s ETD Web site . This includes  instructions , templates, forms,  support , and a portal to view all University of Pittsburgh theses and dissertations that have been submitted in the past. However, there are some minor differences in format requirements between the general University guidelines and Pitt Public Health. Some instructions on the University ETD site may conflict with Pitt Public Health instructions, in which case you should follow the school instructions outlined in the sections below.

MPH/MHA Essay Format

The preferred method for formatting your essay is to the template the school offers (email  [email protected]  for an updated template). If you do not use the template, be sure that your essay formatting follows  ETD guidelines . However, the essay sections should be ordered and numbered as in the table below, which is slightly different from the university ETD instructions. In addition, you do not need bookmarks in the essay. Your final essay can be deposited as a Word document or as a PDF.

Required order and numbering of pages for essays:

• Title page :  Small Roman numeral i assumed, but not numbered
• Committee page :  Small Roman numeral ii
• Copyright:  Small Roman numeral iii
• Abstract :  Small Roman numeral continuation
• Table of contents (including appendix titles): Small Roman numeral continuation
• List of tables (if any): Small Roman numeral continuation
• List of figures (if any): Small Roman numeral continuation
• Preface/Acknowledgments (optional, and if used should be brief): Small Roman numeral continuation
• Body of essay: Start with Arabic numeral 1 and continue
• Appendices (if any): Arabic numeral continuation (If there is more than one appendix, denote them with letters, e.g. “Appendix A, Appendix B.” Separate cover sheets for each appendix are not required, although each appendix must begin at the top of a new page. The heading for each appendix is centered without punctuation. The appendix title can either follow the heading or it can be centered below.)
• Bibliography: Arabic numeral continuation

Thesis and Dissertation Format

Follow the  ETD guidelines , be sure the title page, committee page, and abstract page have the information as noted in the examples below. You may also use this  template  for formatting your thesis or dissertation. In addition, Pitt Public Health requires more complete bookmarks than the University guidelines indicate (see below).

Thesis or dissertation title page Thesis or dissertation committee page Thesis or dissertation abstract page

MPH/MHA essays do not need to have bookmarks. Theses and dissertations MUST include complete bookmarks. All items in the thesis or dissertation, beginning with the title page and ending with the bibliography, must be bookmarked. This includes headings/subheadings, heading numbers, committee member page, abstract, table of contents, list of tables, list of figures, preface, acknowledgements, appendices, etc. See the  ETD bookmark help sheet  for instructions on how to insert bookmarks. The following notes may also be helpful.

Note 1: The following sections will hyperlink in the pdf conversion: table of contents, list of tables, and list of figures. You may either create drop-down lists for the items belonging in the list of tables and the list of figures or nest the table and figure bookmarks under the heading they fall under.

Note 2: Any bookmarks or links already in place before the thesis/dissertation is converted from an MS Word document to a PDF document will automatically be tagged “inherit zoom,” a feature that ensures that the destination window is displayed at the magnification level the reader uses when viewing links or bookmarks. If you add bookmarks or links after the document has been converted, you will have to manually change them to “inherit zoom” using the following instructions:

• Right-click on bookmark or link and choose “properties”
• Choose “actions” tab
• Click “edit”
• Change zoom to “inherit zoom”
• If multiple bookmarks/links need to be changed, click through them individually
• Close bookmarks (press minus sign so that a plus sign appears)
• NEW: In late fall 2019, the ETD Support adjusted the revised template so now if you “save as ” it will give you bookmarks (don’t need Adobe Acrobat prof software).  Directions: “save as type” your word document and pick from the drop down ”PDF” (*.pdf), then under this there will appear an “Options” box, under “Include non-printing information” check “Create bookmarks using”—“Headings” is greyed out—but when you click in the box it appears; then “Ok”, then “Save”.

Some departments and advisors allow students to submit published or publication-ready manuscripts as thesis or dissertation chapters. Such papers may be included either in the body of the document or in the appendix. They must be based on work done during the student’s enrollment at Pitt Public Health. In general, the student should be the primary author on such a paper, but that is not absolutely required. The thesis or dissertation should include a preface listing the authors, the full citation (if published), and the role of the student in the work.

The articles must be logically connected by added text and be integrated into the document in a coherent manner. They must be presented in a manner consistent with the remainder of the text, i.e., identical typeface, paper, margins, and consistent numbering of tables, figures and footnotes. Bibliographic citations should be integrated with those for the rest of the document. Everything must be consistent with  University ETD guidelines .

If your article is already published or in press, you will need permission from the publisher in order to reuse the article, unless you own the copyright (see below).

The following links contain helpful information on copyright rules.

1.  Copyright Information for Graduate Students Writing a Thesis or Dissertation

2. The University Library System’s  copyright page .

When using text, tables, or figures from a published work, whether your own article or that of another author, you must receive the permission of the journal in which it was published. As a courtesy, you should also request permission of the author. Sample templates for contacting publishers are available  here . Many journals have on their Web sites a “copyright permission request form.”

A copy of the letter or email giving you permission to use the article, table, or figure must be submitted along with other documents that you submit for your thesis or dissertation. Do not incorporate the permission letter into the paper.

Effective for summer graduations: you will no longer need to complete the ProQuest Agreement. The University has adopted the ProQuest Paragraph option (replacement for completing online form) effective immediately for all students submitting a Master's thesis or Doctoral Dissertation in D-Scholarship (Note: Previously, Master's theses were being sent to CompuCom to be made into microfilm). 

Students will agree to release their thesis or dissertation to ProQuest within the D-Scholarship system. A new page has been added in D-Scholarship as part of the submission process. 

• Students will no longer be required to complete the ProQuest electronic form. Further, students will no longer need to submit proof of completion to you as part of their thesis/dissertation package.
• ProQuest will not harvest the thesis or dissertation until it is released from the repository. In other words, ETDs that are embargoed within the Pitt community, will not be harvested by ProQuest until that embargo has expired. Similarly, students' ETDs that have been approved to be kept in the dark archive for one year, will not be harvested by ProQuest until that embargo has expired.
• Any additional services that a student wishes to purchase from ProQuest will be done directly with ProQuest. No checks or money orders should be submitted to you or the University's Registrar's office.

AGREEMENT TAB in D-SCHOLARSHIP reads as follows: (click  here  for a screenshot) I understand and agree that my master's thesis or PhD dissertation will be made available in the ProQuest Dissertation & Theses Database (PQDT), which reaches 3,000 universities with over 200 million searches annually, and supports discovery through major subject and discipline indexes (SciFinder, MLA, MathSciNet, PsycINFO, ERIC, etc). ProQuest provides these services at no charge, and is a non-exclusive distribution of your doctoral dissertation. You will be eligible for a royalty based upon sales of the full-text of your work in all formats. More information is available  here . *University Honors College Undergraduate theses are not shared with ProQuest  

By clicking on Next I agree to these terms and conditions. 

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August 12, 2022

University of Pittsburgh Medical School Secondary Application Essay Tips [2022 – 2023]

UPSOM places special emphasis on their collaborative problem-based curriculum and the fact that their medical students begin interacting with patients in their first year of medical school. Providing the best care to patients through research, education, leadership and diversity is central to their mission .

They seek future medical students who demonstrate high academic achievement, the attributes of curiosity and self-discovery, and an empathic will to serve others.

University of Pittsburgh 2022-2023 secondary application essay questions

Pitt med secondary essay #1.

Tell us about a challenging problem you faced and how you resolved it. Include how the experience contributed to the person you are today. (250 words or less.)

Given UPSOM’s focus on one-on-one patient interactions, use an experience in which you were able to resolve a professional conflict. Emphasize the role that you played in finding a solution and the skills you employed to identify and implement a positive outcome that was mutually beneficial for all parties involved. I recommend using an issue that has a clear positive resolution.

The challenging problem you write about must have been important enough to you that it contributed to your maturity and growth. Rather succinctly, you’ll have to articulate the integration of this experience with “who you are today,” and explain how this challenging problem and its resolution imprinted you for the better, triggered growth, sensitivity, insight, understanding – or any other quality that is a mature attribute .

Pitt Med secondary essay #2

At UPSOM, diversity and inclusion are measures of distinction, integral to achieving institutional excellence, and essential to the development of future physicians who become leaders in medicine. Describe how you have demonstrated a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the past, and how you hope to grow that commitment in medical school. (250 words or less.)

This prompt replaces a broader prompt about diversity that asked applicants to address “opposing” racism, gender and identity discrimination, and misogyny. This new prompt flips the approach to your narrative about this relatively standard “diversity” secondary prompt . Instead of writing about “the fight” inherent in opposition, this prompt speaks to the higher order of diversity and inclusion as values of character and leadership. Also, they ask you not to speak to these values as ideals, rather, they ask for action – how have you demonstrated a commitment to these values? They seek a story, not a manifesto. The story should resonate with what others can expect to see from you in the future. What have you done to combat this problem? How have you advocated for diversity and inclusion?

Pitt Med secondary essay #3

Please write about anything else you would like to add to your application, or anything you would like to emphasize to the Admissions Committee. (250 words or less.)

Applicants may write about a hardship they encountered, if it is not addressed in another part of the application. Some applicants might explain a circumstance associated with an aberrant grade on a transcript, without blame, without complaint. 

Other applicants may write about a job opportunity or volunteer commitment that arose since submitting their AMCAS application. You may even respond with a positive situation. Perhaps explain some aspect of your talent that is not represented in the primary application and is not associated with medicine: will you judge a 4H competition, ride a bull, officiate at a wedding, play in a summer orchestra, run a marathon, have paintings displayed at a gallery opening, publish a short story, travel to provide humanitarian relief?

Applying to University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine? Here are some stats:

UPSOM average MCAT score: 516

UPSOM average GPA: 3.83

UPSOM acceptance rate: 3.5%

U.S. News  ranks UPSOM #14 for research and #10 for primary care.

Check out the Med School Selectivity Index for more stats.

Has this blog post helped you feel more confident about approaching your UPSOM secondary application? We hope so. It’s our mission to help smart, talented applicants like you gain acceptance to your top choice medical school. With so much at stake, why not hire a consultant whose expertise and personalized guidance can help you make your dream come true? We have several flexible consulting options— click here to get started today !

UPitt School of Medicine application timeline 2022 – 2023

Source:  University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine’s website

Related Resources:

• How to Create Successful Secondary Applications , a free webinar
• Writing About Overcoming Obstacles in Your Application Essays
• Simple Steps to Writing an Excellent Diversity Essay

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Personal Statement

The personal statement is your opportunity to communicate directly with the Admissions Committee. Applicants are welcome to submit anything that helps tell their story, being mindful and thoughtful about the quantity and quality of information shared. Share information not included elsewhere in your application.

A personal statement or the Common Application essay is required to be considered for scholarships or if applying test-optional. It may increase the likelihood that you are considered for guaranteed admission programs or given special consideration due to extenuating circumstances.

The personal statement can be submitted with your application. This can be the University of Pittsburgh Application or the Common Application - we do not prefer one over the other. If you have already completed the application, you may complete the personal statement here.

All international applicants are required to complete a Short Answer Question in lieu of a personal statement.

Fields marked with * are required.

You may upload a PDF containing your statement, or you may enter your statement directly on this form.

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How to Write the University of Pittsburgh Application Essays 2018-2019

The University of Pittsburgh (colloquially known as Pitt) is a large research university established in 1787. Located in the industrial city of Pittsburgh, Pitt is home to 17 schools and over 19,000 undergraduate students.

With an acceptance rate of 60%, Pitt was ranked 26th out of all public universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report in 2018. The university has a thriving academic community, over 350 student clubs and organizations, and is known for its positive campus atmosphere; in 2010, it was rated as having one of the top 10 happiest student bodies in the country.

The University of Pittsburgh strongly encourages applicants to write three short essays, granting potential students a great opportunity to showcase multiple facets of their personality, experiences, and interests. Read on for tips to help you master these essays and boost your chances of acceptance into one of the happiest and highest-ranking public schools in the country!

How have you made an impact at your high school? Choose one example and tell us about it. (Responses preferred in 200-300 words)

This prompt provides you the space to demonstrate your  passions ,  initiative , and  desire to help others . Whether the impact you have made is large or small, the essay should show how you possess each of these qualities.

Some good example topics for this essay:

• You have always been passionate about reducing the stigma surrounding mental health (be sure to give some brief background as to what stimulated this passion). You also noticed that a lot of students at school are always anxious about school work or seem to be struggling with depression. You decide to create an app that allows peers to share mental health resources, ask for advice from other students, or share memes/art/poetry/etc. that cover issues of mental health. You found that the majority of the student body downloaded the app and many have come to you saying how much it has helped them feel less alone and has given them the courage to seek help for their struggles.
• A new student who began attending your school was bullied by some kids in your grade. Even some of your own friends were mean to him or would make fun of him. He would sit alone at lunch and, one day, you decided to sit down next to him, introduce yourself, and start a conversation with him. You realize you have many of the same interests and end up becoming good friends with him. You stand up to the bullies and they stop bothering him. The student tells you that he dreaded coming to school every day until you started hanging out with him. Later in the year, he makes a similar impact on you by being there for you during a rough time.

While the first example is on a “macro” scale, the second, more “micro” example can be equally as powerful if told well. If you decide to go with a smaller-scale impact, make sure it is written as a  story ; use descriptive details that really make the reader feel as though they were also there.

While you should be descriptive and  show instead of tell  no matter what you are writing about (see guide to the prompt below for more details on showing vs. telling), it is especially important when writing about an experience that could seem trivial if it is not well-described. Be sure to also illustrate the impact; for instance, for the second example above, the writer could incorporate dialogue between herself and the student when he expresses his gratitude for her reaching out to him.

What makes you stand out from the crowd? What experiences have you had, good or bad, that make you unique? (Responses preferred in 200-300 words)

As briefly discussed in our guide  How to Write the Common Application Essays 2018-2019 , the best response to this question should demonstrate how the intersection of your personality, interests, skills, and analytical-thinking abilities creates a distinctive combination — one that would allow you to contribute in an idiosyncratic way to the college to which you are applying.

Taking it one step farther, UPitt is also looking for your ability to reflect. What evidence do you have of your uniqueness? What experiences can you point to that showcase your individuality? You will likely be doing some storytelling here, so it’s extremely important to  show and not tell. Here’s an example of the difference between the two:

• Telling —  I am unique because I want to combine my lifelong love of riding horses and my philanthropic aspirations to open an equestrian therapy academy.
• Showing —  The feeling I get when riding is incomparable: the gentle leaps of the horse, the clicks of its hooves against the dirt, the briskness of the wind against my face; it gives me an overwhelming sense of freedom and power and tranquility. It’s this feeling that has helped me through all of the inevitable blemishes of adolescence, and it is my dream to help those who are struggling experience the uplifting sensation of riding.

Note that the “showing” example also  avoids using any overused adages or clichés , as such sayings can diminish the strength of the experience or emotion you are trying to convey. For example, when explaining the difficulties that come with growing up, writing “the inevitable blemishes of adolescence” is more distinct and illustrative than saying something like “the rollercoaster that is high school.”

For some of you, this essay will be easy to start – maybe you’ve got an odd family tradition, an uncommon identity, a niche hobby, or even a peculiar birthmark that you could write about. In that case, be sure to point to specific experiences; you could focus on just one moment and tell the story with rich detail, or skillfully connect a few experiences together into one cohesive narrative. The key is to demonstrate your uniqueness through real-life examples and show how this uniqueness will translate into helping you excel at UPitt.

But what if you don’t have some extraordinarily special aspect of life to point to? Don’t worry – most of the world doesn’t. The key is to remember that you are still unique! Your specific life experiences, background, personality, interests, and a million other things form a special combination that really cannot be found in anyone else. Try writing out all of your interests, skills, and passions, and then lift out a few from the list.

Next, think about how these things come together and make you special. Are there any experiences that show how you, having your distinctive mixture of these separate identities or interests or abilities, were able to meet a challenge, relate to a stranger, help a peer, or learn something new about yourself? Really dig deeply into what you believe is truly unique about you, weave a story that features an experience or two demonstrating that uniqueness, and then show how this will help you contribute something distinctive to UPitt that nobody else can.

If you could create a new product, process, business, or organization, what would this entity look like? (Responses preferred in 200-300 words)

With this prompt, UPitt wants to see your creativity and problem-solving skills. In other words, you should show the admissions office how you think . The key is to think small when answering this question: what’s a problem you see, and how would you fix it?

We suggest you stay away from big national or global issues like “zero hunger” or “world poverty.” However, you may be able to concentrate on smaller, more specific issues within these broad zones, and most likely, the problem you’re interested in solving will be somehow related to family or interests or specific life experiences. (Bonus points if you can combine multiple areas of specialty together, drawing on your skills and experiences from two or more different academic or extracurricular areas!)

Some examples:

• You edit for your high school newspaper, and you’re passionate about educational inequities in your city. You want to form a new publication with editors from other schools that highlights specific student experiences, with the hope of eventually attracting the attention of city officials.
• You’re a dedicated ballerina who also loves biochemistry. You and your friends often suffer from painful calluses on the balls of your feet, and you have an idea for a home-made, inexpensive balm that would be more effective than usual drugstore remedies.
• You regularly volunteer at the local soup kitchen, and you have just a tiny change you’d like to make to the process of forming and organizing lines on weekend mornings, specifically. You think that your proposal will really speed up the distribution process without dramatically affecting current procedures.

The key takeaway here is that this prompt does not require a well-tested research project that’s been presented at multiple conferences — just pick any problem you see in your daily life and come up with a creative solution for it!

As a word of caution, the only constraint is the word limit. While you have 750 words, the UPitt admissions office likely prefers the 200 to 300 range that they’ve suggested. In your answer, you should aim to have a brief background of what inspired your idea, an explanation of your idea, and the potential impact you’d like to see it cause. If you present something that requires a great deal of highly technical explanations, try your best to simplify it down so that any person walking down the street can understand your proposal. And worse comes to worst, pick something else!

Remember: your actual product, process, business, or organization doesn’t matter so much as your inspiration and process – the story of your creativity, problem-solving, and compassion.

General Reminders:

• Be sure to highlight distinct, separate aspects in each of these three essays, but also make sure each essay topic fits into the overall theme of your application.
• Don’t worry too much about the word limit when writing the first draft. It’s better to just get all of your ideas out on the page from the get-go and cut down during the editing process.

Want help with your college essays to improve your admissions chances? Sign up for your free CollegeVine account and get access to our essay guides and courses. You can also get your essay peer-reviewed and improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

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The Writing Institute administers the writing-intensive general education requirement at the University of Pittsburgh. If you want to propose a new writing-intensive course, you will find guidelines and sample proposals in this section.

Proposing a New Writing-Intensive Course

Do you have a new writing-intensive course in mind? We have developed  guidelines for proposals . We are also very happy to meet with you to discuss your proposal.

Sample Proposals for W Courses

We are starting to build a collection of sample proposals for W courses .

Curriculum Design Studio  is a program for DSAS department-level administrators who are interested in designing or re-designing writing-Intensive courses to meet their programmatic goals and/or General Education commitments. It runs in Spring Term each year.

All General Education Requirements must be assessed periodically, including the requirement that students complete two writing-intensive courses (one inside the major and one outside). Assessment of W courses is conducted by the Writing Institute at the direction of the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences Undergraduate Council. W courses are located throughout the Dietrich School. Assessment will roll out by division, starting in summer 2022.

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Volume 56 | ISSUE 22: June 28, 2024

Creativity matters: with pride.

By ERIK SCHUCKERS

In 2020, high on the receipt of my first AARP card, I approached Kit Ayars and Jeanne Marie Laskas at the University of Pittsburgh’s Center for Creativity with an idea: a program geared to LGBTQ folks age 50+ that would focus on reading and writing about our lives.

Us “elders” were born into social, medical and legal landscapes much different from those that exist today: homosexuality was classified as a mental disorder, LGBTQ discrimination in employment and housing was both common and legal, same-sex marriage was a nearly inconceivable fantasy, and AIDS/HIV was regarded as a death sentence. Trans and bi folks, and people of color, were often marginalized or outright erased in both the queer and non-queer communities.

I learned about AIDS at the same time

I learned how lesbians and gay

are different

— Rowan Flamm

“In Our Own Write,” which launched with a grant from Pitt’s Year of Community in 2021, was designed to bring together queer elders, many with no previous writing experience, to share, preserve, and learn to communicate our experiences. Every week, we met to discuss writing by contemporary LGBTQ writers and to workshop our own. We invited accomplished guest writers, including Joy Ladin, Lesléa Newman, Jubi Arriola-Headley, and Pitt’s own Jeff Oaks, for readings and discussions. And session by session, we built a community.

With the support of the Center for Creativity, “In Our Own Write” grew through three annual iterations. The University Library System was excited to archive our annual chapbooks, to make them available to a wider community. Each new year saw a mix of returning students and new participants eager to tell their stories. And I heard that while a dedicated space for elders was important, as we are often left out of LGBTQ programming that tends to skew younger, there was also a need and desire for intergenerational communication.

And with a 2024 grant from Pitt’s Year of Discourse and Dialogue, “Writing GenQ” was born.

What’s it like, L asks about gender dysphoria

Like wearing a ball gown to a boxing match, I say

— Shannon Fink

“Writing GenQ” brought together LGBTQ+ folks from Pitt undergraduates to retirees. In its pilot iteration, we read and wrote around two topics identified by participants: body and community. Our work both celebrated our differences and identified shared struggles and triumphs — while the landscapes have changed, our journeys bear unmistakable similarities.

One thing that came through clearly in working with our first “Writing GenQ” cohort is that younger and older folks alike are anxious about communicating, about the language we use to convey our experiences. We want to honor each other’s lives and identities, and are often afraid to ask questions or interrogate our vocabularies.

What we discovered together is that intention is everything. One of the most important elements of intergenerational communication is generosity, the understanding that learning goes both ways. Creativity relies on the ability to assimilate the past while taking stock of the present and looking ahead to the future. This is also the dynamic of community.

But you touched me like I was an artifact

Aged and filled with stories and complete in and of myself

You touched me like you wanted to take me in.

— Silas M. Switzer

As queer folks, we are acutely aware that our history is constantly endangered; our stories, like our bodies, subject to censorship and violence and erasure. Our books are removed from libraries, our identities made literally unspeakable in classrooms. Hate groups disguised as political organizations manipulate fear and lies to encourage a violence that’s more than just rhetorical.

But we also know that connection and creation are intimately linked, and that these are sustainable resources, not only tools of survival, but sources of joy. We are—always have been, always will be—filled with stories. And sharing them is an act of generation and generosity that will keep us moving into the future that we make together.

Quotes by works from In Our Own Write/Writing GenQ participants.

Erik Schuckers is the C4C manager of programming and communications. His forthcoming book of poetry is Pretty Boys in Trouble.

More From Forbes

College essays that worked and how yours can too.

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CAMBRIDGE, MASSACHUSETTS - JULY 08: A view of Harvard Yard on the campus of Harvard University on ... [+] July 08, 2020 in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology have sued the Trump administration for its decision to strip international college students of their visas if all of their courses are held online. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

The college essay is a pivotal piece of the college application showcasing your individuality and differentiated outlook to admissions officers. What makes an essay truly shine? Let’s dive into the words behind three standout essays highlighted by university websites and a school newspaper's brand studio so you can get into the right mindset for crafting your own narrative.

Embracing Differences: Finding Strength In Uniqueness

Essay Excerpt: ‘Bra Shopping ’ (Harvard)

Featured by the Harvard Crimson Brand Studio , Orlee's essay recounts a student's humorous and insightful experience of bra shopping with her grandmother, weaving in her unique family dynamics and challenges at her prestigious school.

What Works:

• Humor and Honesty: The student's humor makes the essay enjoyable to read, while her honesty about her challenges adds depth.
• Self-Awareness: She demonstrates a strong sense of self-awareness, embracing her uniqueness rather than trying to fit in.
• Resilience: Her narrative highlights resilience and the ability to find strength in differences.

For Your Essay : To write an essay that embraces your uniqueness, start by identifying a quirky or challenging experience that reflects who a key insight into your experience. Think about how this experience has shaped your perspective and character. Use humor and honesty to bring your story to life, and focus on how you have embraced your differences to become stronger and more resilient.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, finding connections: humor and self-reflection.

Essay: ‘Brood X Cicadas ’ (Hamilton College)

As an example on Hamilton's admissions website, Nicholas writes about the cicadas swarming his hometown every 17 years and draws a parallel between their emergence and his own transition to college life. He uses humor and self-reflection to create a relatable and engaging narrative.

• Humor: Nicholas uses humor to make his essay entertaining and memorable. His witty comparisons between himself and cicadas add a unique twist.
• Self-Reflection: By comparing his life to the cicadas’, he reflects on his own growth and readiness for change.
• Relatability: His narrative about facing new experiences and challenges resonates with readers who have undergone similar transitions.

For Your Essay: To infuse humor and self-reflection into your essay, start by identifying an ordinary experience or object and think about how it relates to your life. Write down funny or insightful observations about this connection. Use humor to make your essay more engaging, but ensure it still conveys meaningful self-reflection. This balance can make your essay both entertaining and profound.

Persistence and Multicultural Identity: Life Lessons From Tortilla Making

Essay: ‘ Facing The Hot Griddle ’ (Johns Hopkins University)

In this essay published by Hopkins Insider, Rocio uses the process of making tortillas to explore her multicultural identity and the challenges she has faced. Her story beautifully weaves together her Guatemalan heritage and her experiences growing up in the United States.

• Metaphor and Symbolism: The process of making tortillas becomes a powerful metaphor for the student’s journey and struggles. The symbolism of the masa harina and water mixing parallels her blending of cultural identities.
• Personal Growth: The essay highlights her perseverance and adaptability, qualities that are crucial for success in college.
• Cultural Insight: She provides a rich, personal insight into her multicultural background, making her story unique and compelling.

For Your Essay: To write an essay that explores your identity through a metaphor, start by thinking about an activity or tradition that holds significant meaning for you. Consider how this activity relates to your life experiences and personal growth. Use detailed descriptions to bring the activity to life and draw connections between the process and your own journey. Reflect on the lessons you've learned and how they've shaped your identity.

A winning college essay isn’t simply about parading your best accomplishment or dramatizing your challenges. It’s not a contest for which student is the most original or entertaining. Rather, the essay is a chance for you to showcase your authenticity, passion, resilience, social awareness, and intellectual vitality . By sharing genuine stories and insights, you can create an essay that resonates with admissions committees and highlights your unique qualities.

For you to have the best possible essay, mindset is key. Here’s how to get into the zone:

• Reflect Deeply: Spend time thinking about your experiences, challenges, and passions. Journaling can help you uncover deep insights.
• Discuss and Share: Talking about your stories with friends, family, or mentors can provide new perspectives and emotional clarity.
• Immerse Yourself: Engage in activities that you are passionate about to reignite the feelings and memories associated with them.
• Draft Freely: Don’t worry about perfection on the first try. Write freely and honestly, then refine your narrative.

The secret to a standout college essay lies in its authenticity, depth, and emotional resonance. By learning from these successful examples and getting into the right mindset, you can craft an essay that not only stands out but also provides a meaningful insight into who you are. Remember, your essay is your story—make it a piece of writing that you will always be proud of.

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Generative AI for Educators: Three Seed Grants Awarded for Research & Development

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As part of Carnegie Mellon University’s efforts to support and promote the application of generative AI to education, the university has launched a seed grant program for the research and development of generative AI-enabled educational tools. The aim of the program is to foster new research, test and deploy tools to enhance education at CMU, and position awardees to secure additional funding for furthering their work.

In response to the program’s inaugural call for proposals , 43 proposals were submitted by a total of 87 principle and co-principal investigators, representing all seven of CMU’s schools and colleges as well as the University Libraries (opens in new window) . 

“We are thrilled that the seed grant program received such an enthusiastic response from our faculty members,” said Provost and Chief Academic Officer James H. Garrett Jr (opens in new window) . “The impressive number of proposals truly underscores our community's authentic commitment to pioneering new generative AI applications that will transform education at Carnegie Mellon and beyond.”

The proposals were evaluated by a panel of reviewers with relevant knowledge and expertise from the School of Computer Science (opens in new window) , Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences (opens in new window) , Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy (opens in new window) , the College of Fine Arts (opens in new window) and the Provost’s Division (opens in new window) . The following three proposals garnered the highest endorsement, and Garrett has approved funding for the projects.

AI-Enhanced Writing Studio for Writing in the Disciplines and Professions

Despite significant research over the past 60-plus years, there have been no scalable breakthrough solutions to help college graduates meet standards of written proficiency. Dietrich College’s Suguru Ishizaki (opens in new window) ,  David Kaufer (opens in new window) and David Brown (opens in new window) seek to close this gap through the application of research-based principles derived from the literature on writing process and pedagogy.

Building on their preliminary work in AI-enhanced writing environments for student writers, they plan to use the funding to enhance the learner experience; implement features to support instructors; evaluate the overall effectiveness of the environment; and understand how students write with AI-enhanced tools.

The professors plan to test the writing environment in an introductory statistics course and a professional writing course. Workshops for CMU instructors who assign writing in their classes are also planned.

MuFIN: A Framework for Automating Multimodal Feedback Generation Using Generative Artificial Intelligence

Feedback plays a critical role in improving learning outcomes in educational and professional settings. Traditional feedback methods, primarily textual, have been extensively studied and applied to facilitate learning and performance. In comparison, multimodal feedback — which integrates textual, auditory and visual cues — promises a more engaging and effective learning experience because it leverages multiple sensory channels, better accommodates diverse learning preferences and aids in deeper information retention. 

While generative AI has been primarily harnessed to automate and enhance textual feedback, its potential in crafting multimodal feedback remains largely untapped. A study proposed by computer science and psychology professor Ken Koedinger (opens in new window) and Jionghao Lin (opens in new window) and Eason Chen (opens in new window) in SCS seeks to bridge this gap by investigating how generative AI techniques can be employed to produce effective and scalable multimodal feedback.

Virtual Voice Coach: Improving Prosody and Expression in Vocal Art

Voice coaches train singers to sound believable in multiple languages through collaborative work on prosody, the patterns of stress and sound in singing. Jocelyn Dueck (opens in new window) in CFA and  Shuqi Dai (opens in new window) in SCS proposed to work with new generative AI technologies to build an application that identifies good prosody in singing.

Similar to learning French well before traveling to France, prosodic nuance is vital to the compelling delivery of words in performance, including the communication of emotion. Opera singers perform unamplified and perceive sound from within and therefore require feedback from trusted collaborators, something vocal coaches normally provide.

A tool with state-of-the-art generative singing synthesis techniques could personalize vocal coaching using the singer’s own voices and habits, providing feedback even beyond the ability of human tutors, and could be readily available to the student right inside the practice room.

“My colleagues and I look forward to supporting these awardees' research and also to enacting additional strategies to help advance the broader set of AI-related educational innovations being pursued at CMU,” said Marsha Lovett, vice provost for teaching and learning innovation

One such ongoing strategy is the  Generative AI Teaching as Research (opens in new window) (GAITAR) initiative. More strategies are anticipated in the fall. 

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