Honors application advice
We are frequently asked what we are looking for in applications to Interdisciplinary Honors, so below we provide some guidance to assist prospective applicants. We hope to see students demonstrate that they have done their research and that they understand the program that they are applying for. We want to see evidence of how their values and goals align with those of the UW Honors Program and why they are enthusiastic about joining this community. Here are some tips and questions that may help applicants reflect more deeply on why they want to be a part of the Interdisciplinary Honors community:
- Be yourself and be specific! This is your opportunity to introduce yourself to us. Demonstrate why you are interested in our curriculum and what qualities you would contribute to the Interdisciplinary Honors Program.
- Honors essays should add to your UW application – don’t repeat what you’ve already written in your general UW essays. Remember that Honors reviews your entire UW application as part of the holistic review process.
- Remember your audience. The UW is a large and diverse public institution. The people evaluating your application may not have the same beliefs or perspective you do. Diverse viewpoints are desired in the academic world. Consider this as you frame your essays.
- Don’t tell us what you think we want to hear. When students do this, they often end up repeating what we’ve said on our website. We want to learn about you and your individual interests – don’t be afraid to be different!
- Use the space wisely! Read the prompts carefully, take the time to learn about our program, then answer the whole question with our curriculum in mind.
- Your response to our prompt should not be a list your accomplishments or past achievements.
- Proofread! Have someone who knows you proofread your responses, but don’t let your voice and perspective be erased.
Reflection is a core value and component of our curriculum and we are looking for evidence of self-reflection in your essays. Reflection can happen in many different ways, but a helpful place to start is to ask more questions that help you dig deeper into what we are asking you:
- In your own words, what do you like about learning and pushing yourself outside your learning comfort zone?
- How does interdisciplinary learning enhance your understanding of the world?
- How do you want to engage with what UW Honors offers to further your education and personal growth?
- Why does interdisciplinary learning matter to you personally? Why does it matter for our broader world?
- What have you done in the past that supports what you tell us in your essay? Don’t just focus on past experiences, but providing evidence to back up your claims strengthens your essay.
- Why are you applying for Interdisciplinary Honors (as opposed to pursuing Departmental Honors through your major)? If you plan to pursue both Honors pathways, explain what you hope to gain from pursuing a degree with Interdisciplinary Honors.
- Why is community important to you, and who do you hope to meet in the Interdisciplinary Honors community?