New York University

Essay prompts (1)

1. community2026-27250 words

   Applies to: All first-year applicants to all NYU campuses (New York, Abu Dhabi, Shanghai); optional (pre-checked Writing section)

   We are looking for students who want to be bridge builders—students who can connect people, groups, and ideas to span divides, foster understanding, and promote collaboration within a dynamic, interconnected, and vibrant global academic community. We are eager for you to tell us how your experiences have helped you understand what qualities and efforts are needed to bridge divides so that people can better learn and work together. Please consider one or more of the following questions in your essay: - Tell us about a time you encountered a perspective different from your own. What did you learn—about yourself, the other person, or the world? - Tell us about an experience you've had working with others who have different backgrounds or perspectives. What challenges did your group face? Did you overcome them, and if so, how? What role did you try to play in helping people to work together, and what did you learn from your efforts? - Tell us about someone you've observed who does a particularly good job helping people think or work together. How does this person set the stage for common exploration or work? How do they react when difficulties or dissensions arise?

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