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Tackling the Texas A&M Short Answer Application Prompts

When Texas A&M introduced short answer questions to their application in 2020, many students felt panicked. Applications are already writing-intensive, so the thought of even more required writing was an overwhelming prospect.

It is helpful to remember that these short answer questions are intended to benefit students. How? By giving them more opportunities to show why they should be an Aggie.

GENERAL TIPS FOR RESPONDING TO SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

Short answers offer one more opportunity for application reviewers to get to know you. It sounds obvious, but the first piece of advice is: answer the question! It's important to keep in mind that these are not trick questions. Texas A&M is asking students exactly what they want to know. Students should read the question carefully and be sure they're addressing it with relevant and specific information.

• Answer every part of the question. Some of these prompts are more like two prompts in one, as in the Diversity prompt (discussed at greater length below): “Describe the benefits of diversity and inclusion for you personally and for the Texas A&M campus community.” Notice how there are really two questions here: one about the student’s personal relationship to diversity and one about the importance of diversity and inclusion at A&M more broadly. Students should outline their answers in order to ensure that they are responding to every part of the question.
• Be succinct. Students should use illustrative examples where appropriate, but they can save their creative juices for Essay A. The short answers are about providing information to the admissions readers that they could not get from the student’s resume, transcript, or test scores alone. The typical length of a strong short answer is about two paragraphs, or around 250-300 words.

These answers may be short, but that doesn’t mean they are trivial. These questions offer students an important chance to make a positive impression on the admissions committee by highlighting their distinctive qualities, accomplishments, values, and why they believe they would be a great fit at Texas A&M.

You can find more specific information about this year’s Texas A&M short answer questions below.

REQUIRED SHORT ANSWER 1: DIVERSITY

Short Answer Prompt

Texas A&M University believes that diversity is an important part of academic excellence and that it is essential to living our core values (loyalty, integrity, excellence, leadership, respect, and selfless service). Describe the benefits of diversity and inclusion for you personally and for the Texas A&M campus community. 

Diversity is a broad term, so before students start writing, they should think about all of its implications. Diversity can include race, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious and cultural beliefs, socioeconomic background, immigration status, physical disabilities, and neurological differences, among many other aspects of identity. Students should also consider the other key term in this question: inclusion. Diversity is one thing, but any environment needs to be inclusive (accepting and encouraging of diversity) in order to allow all different kinds of people to thrive within a community.

Once they've taken a step back, it's time to focus on the two parts of the prompt: 

Part 1: Describe the benefits of diversity and inclusion for you personally

Part 2: and for the Texas A&M campus community.

First, they'll need to zoom in to their personal experiences: What kinds of diverse communities have they been a part of? How have those communities helped them? How did they personally grow from their experiences within those communities? They can keep those values that A&M describes (loyalty, integrity, excellence, leadership, respect, and selfless service) top of mind while they brainstorm.

Next, students need to think about why it’s important for a college community to be both diverse and inclusive. As a thought experiment, students can imagine themselves in an environment with people with a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and beliefs. In what ways will that make their college experience richer—both inside and outside the classroom?

As students write, they should cite personal examples from their own lives. They only have 250-300 words, but that should be enough for a quick anecdote. And if a student doesn't come from a diverse background, they can use this space to talk about why it's important for them to be part of a diverse culture on campus and how it will help them grow.

Students may also want to consult A&M’s own statement on the diversity page of their website:

“We define diversity as the inclusion and support of individuals from all groups, encompassing the various characteristics of people in our community. Diversity is the exploration of differences, identities, and ideas in a welcoming and nurturing academic environment. The educational benefits of diverse learning environments includes: civic learning, engagement, and preparation to live in complex global settings.”

REQUIRED SHORT ANSWER 2: LIFE EVENT

Describe a life event which you feel has prepared you to be successful in college.

As with the first short answer question, you might think of this question as having two parts as well. First, it asks students to recount a single event or experience, and second, it asks them to reflect on how it has prepared them for college success. The student’s answer does not need to follow a two-part structure, but it is crucial that both parts of this answer (the anecdote and the reflection) be included.

What kind of life event should students choose to write about? In making this decision, students should think about the goal of their essay. Like the other two short answer questions, this one allows admissions readers to get a deeper understanding of the student’s context and life experiences. Students should focus on a life event that offers readers at least one of the following things:

• an understanding of how the student approaches opportunities and/or setbacks
• insight into the kinds of challenges the student has faced, or of an obstacle the student has overcome
• a sense of the student’s character and strengths

Students may choose to recount a story of accomplishment, but they can also use this question to reflect upon a less positive experience and how they have learned or grown as a result of it. Whether they write about triumphs or tribulations, they should be sure to answer the second part of the question: how has this event prepared them to be successful in college (whatever “success” might mean to them personally)?

Remember that this short answer should not overlap with the student’s Essay A. It should discuss a different event than any outlined in that personal statement, and it should offer different insights about the student’s personality, maturity, and values.

REQUIRED SHORT ANSWER 3: KEY PERSON

Tell us about a person who has most impacted your life and why.

Some students are daunted by the challenge of choosing a person who has most impacted their life. How to choose just one person? Our advice is not to get overwhelmed, but instead to select a person whose impact the student can both: a) illustrate with specific examples; and b) reflect on in a thoughtful and illuminating way. Keep in mind that specific examples are always more interesting to a reader than vague generalizations. The student’s aim is to paint a vivid picture of this person, so that the reader can appreciate this person’s influence in the student’s life.

It is no surprise that many students choose to write about a parent for this answer. While there is nothing wrong with that, we would encourage students to think beyond their parents for this answer-- and even beyond their nuclear family. Some of the most distinctive short answers to this question focus on a friend, teammate, colleague, teacher, coach, community or religious leader, among others. In selecting whom to write about-- and what to say about them-- students should consider what they admire about this person. Which of the students’ values does this person embody? What qualities in this person might the student want to emulate? What has this person’s actions and/or words taught the student?

As with all of these short answers, remember that Texas A&M is interested, above all, in getting to know the student better. When students write about an important individual in their life, they are also giving the admissions committee a deeper sense of the kind of person they are.

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2 Terrific Texas A&M Essay Examples by an Accepted Student

Founded in 1876, Texas A&M University has the distinction of being the oldest institution of higher education in Texas. Texas A&M has grown considerably since its founding as an Agricultural and Mechanical (A&M) college—today, it’s home to 17 academic colleges and offers more than 130 undergraduate degrees. 

Texas A&M’s wide range of academic offerings, and national reputation as an athletic powerhouse thanks to their success in the Southeastern Conference, makes it desirable to many applicants. To help yourself stand out from the crowd, you’ll want to make sure your essays are as strong as possible. Here, we’ll provide you with two examples of essays submitted by a student who was eventually accepted to Texas A&M, to give you a clearer sense of what admissions officers are looking for.

Please note: Looking at examples of real essays students have submitted to colleges can be very beneficial to get inspiration for your essays. You should never copy or plagiarize from these examples when writing your own essays. Colleges can tell when an essay isn’t genuine and will not view students favorably if they plagiarized. 

Read our Texas A&M University essay breakdown to get a comprehensive overview of this year’s supplemental prompts.

Essay Example 1 – Success in College

“How much are you looking to make.” This was the question I had feared; a wrong answer could’ve meant I wasn’t ready for the job, and I’d look like a fool, but if I answered wrong for myself, I’d be stuck knowing I could’ve asked for more. 

Walking into my first job ever, I had immediately begun to shake; it had hit; this had been my first ever job interview, and the person I was about to meet would decide how my summer would go. I shook hands, sat down, and introduced myself. After a couple of questions, I was offered the position, but then that million-dollar question came. I had gone over this question several times during the car ride here. After an extensive debate with myself, I decided it wouldn’t look good if I were to shoot too high, but I also did not want to undervalue myself. I wanted to get the job; I said a number I thought was fair, making sure not to shoot ‘too’ high.

“We start everyone at the same pay.” It turns out I underestimated myself; I had told him something I thought he’d want to hear for the sake of the position. I learned not to underestimate or doubt myself, to always believe in myself, and reach for whatever I dreamed of. Now in life, I always try to achieve the highest level and believe in myself, never selling myself short and always having faith in my capability.

What the Essay Did Well

The author does a great job of centering their essay around a down-to-earth anecdote which still contains a life lesson that directly relates to their future success as a college student. With this prompt, many students will likely write about awards and achievements, but by choosing a more “ordinary” moment, the student shows that they have the ability to reflect on and learn from daily life as well.

As a quick aside, with that being said, you want to be authentic in your college essays. If you’re brainstorming for this prompt, or a similar one, and you feel your strongest response would be about an award or achievement, that’s completely fine! We just want to highlight that sometimes, writing about something less stereotypically impressive can be an incredibly effective way of humanizing yourself for admissions officers.

Another strength of this essay is the author’s personal, conversational writing style, which allows us to step into their shoes and imagine the situation as if we were there. By describing their thoughts and feelings with lines like “I immediately began to shake” and “then that million-dollar question came,” the writer keeps us invested in their story.

Finally, the student also does a great job of both telling a complete story and leaving enough space to reflect on their experience. That reflection leads to clear takeaway lessons which they explicitly connect to the prompt, so there’s no risk of the admissions officer finishing the essay wondering what the point was.

What Could Be Improved 

One small change this student could make is in the final paragraph, where they reflect on how they “ learned not to underestimate or doubt [themself], to always believe in [themself], and reach for whatever [they] dreamed of.” While the first lesson, to not underestimate themself, is a logical takeaway from the experience, the next two feel tangentially related at best. 

The lack of a clear connection makes the end of the essay feel a little too much like a Hallmark Card. Since readers don’t have anything to anchor the second and third lessons to, they seem generic, when the whole point of the college essay is to set yourself apart. While you do want to maximize the limited space given to you in college essays, this is an example of a place where less is more.

Essay Example 2 – A Teacher’s Impact

Walking into my first class of senior year, Securities and Investments, I thought, “Just another class with just another basic teacher.” Mr. Anderson was standing outside the classroom, I walked in and saw no one, I knew no one. All of my friends were in separate classes, it was just me.

He started the class immediately after the bell rang by telling us, “Ok, class, let’s go outside.” Instead of just doing a regular old lecture, Mr. Anderson teaches outside and around the school. I was immediately hooked: to me, a class where I didn’t have to sit in a rock-hard chair for 90 minutes every other day seemed thrilling. However, it wasn’t just the outdoors that intrigued me, but the content: investments we can make throughout our lives, and how to benefit from the stock market. I was attached; I was drawn to business; I was drawn to the financial aspects, technological aspects, all the aspects of a business. Finally, a class that I yearn to be in, a class about the inner workings of the stock market and business.

Mr. Anderson taught me to keep an open mind when doing anything new, from joining a new class to researching a stock. That mindset has led me to new opportunities, such as volunteering for Wells International Foundation to create clubs. Now, whenever I’m feeling apprehensive about something new, I remember how much I ended up loving Mr. Anderson’s class, and do my best to change my apprehension into anticipation.

This essay’s greatest strength is that the writer has chosen someone who has clearly made a genuine impact on their life. While that may seem like a strange thing to highlight, since that’s the whole point of the prompt, a pitfall some students fall into is trying to impress the admissions officers by choosing someone famous, or a historical figure, who hasn’t actually been that important for their growth. 

But for this prompt, who you choose doesn’t matter–what does is that you can articulate why they’ve been influential in your life, which this student does an excellent job of. The overall lesson of keeping an open mind clearly follows from the student’s description of Mr. Anderson’s unconventional teaching style, and also connects to another aspect of the student’s life (their work with Wells International Foundation).

Additionally, in the first two paragraphs the author builds a personal connection with their readers by letting us in on their thoughts and feelings in real time, through lines like “a class where I didn’t have to sit in a rocking chair” and “finally, a class that I yearn to be in.” This open, honest tone helps us better understand just how impactful the student’s experiences with their teacher were.

While the student clearly lays out the bigger picture lesson they learned from Mr. Anderson in the final paragraph, the first two paragraphs lack detail about how his actions, or personality, helped them learn that lesson. Talking about the outdoor class is a great start, but that’s just one example, and this prompt is asking about “the person who has most impacted your life.”

The student hints at Mr. Anderson helping them engage with topics they initially didn’t find interesting, but in the college essay, hinting isn’t enough–remember, your readers are complete strangers, so they don’t have any background context to fall back on if they don’t fully understand something. The essay would be much stronger with a concrete example of a time Mr. Anderson helped motivate the student academically, like:

“Before I was taught by Mr. Anderson, ‘investments’ was just a word I heard my dad occasionally say while reading the newspaper. I had never cared to learn more, but that disinterest died the day Mr. Anderson put us into teams and had us try to invest responsibly even as he rolled a die to trigger random misfortunes or windfalls.”

This anecdote provides readers with the detail we need to understand how Mr. Anderson specifically encouraged this student’s budding interest in business and finance, which is the connection that’s missing in the original essay.

Where to Get Feedback on Your Essay

Want feedback like this on your Texas A&M essay before you submit? We offer expert essay review by advisors who have helped students get into their dream schools. You can book a review with one of our experts to receive notes on your topic, grammar, and essay structure to make your essay stand out to admissions officers.

Haven’t started writing your essay yet? Our advisors also offer expert college counseling packages . You can purchase a package to get one-on-one guidance on any aspect of the college application process, including brainstorming and writing essays.

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How to Respond to the 2023/2024 Texas A&M University Supplemental Essay Prompts

Cece Gilmore is a Content Writer at Scholarships360. Cece earned her undergraduate degree in Journalism and Mass Communications from Arizona State University. While at ASU, she was the education editor as well as a published staff reporter at Downtown Devil. Cece was also the co-host of her own radio show on Blaze Radio ASU.

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Bill Jack has over a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. Since 2008, he has worked at Colby College, Wesleyan University, University of Maine at Farmington, and Bates College.

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

Texas A&M is located in warm and sunny College Station, Texas. If you are set on becoming an “Aggie,” then crafting winning responses to the Texas A&M supplemental essays will help your application stand out from all other applicants. Keep reading our guide to learn how to best respond to the Texas A&M prompts! 

Breaking down the Texas A&M supplemental essay prompts

The Texas A&M supplemental essays may seem overwhelming at first. There is one optional prompt as well as a prompt just for engineering majors. So, be sure to know which prompts to respond to. 

Here is a breakdown of the Texas A&M prompts : 

• Essay Prompt 1

Short answer #1

Short answer #2.

• Short answer #3 (optional) 
• Prompt for College of Engineering only 

Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today? 

This prompt is an extremely open-ended and broad question. Therefore, you can take this as an opportunity to elaborate on anything you are proud of that was not included in your Common Application or Coalition Application . 

To begin, you should create a list to brainstorm ideas. Write down the most impactful opportunities and challenges that you encountered while in high school. Once you have narrowed down your list to two or three  of the most important and influential events, it is time to write your response! 

The important thing to do when responding to this prompt is not to just simply state the events but expand on the “why” of your prompt. 

Think about the following questions to help expand upon the prompt : 

• Why is it important to share these experiences? 
• What did you learn from this experience? 
• Did you grow from this event? 
• Why were you proud of yourself during this experience? 
• How has this experience shaped you into the person you are today? 

Whatever you write, be sure that you are telling your story. You want to be truthful and true to yourself and your interests. Being authentic will help the Texas A&M admissions officers see just how unique you are.

One important thing to remember throughout your response is that you are not just listing facts and details. Rather, you should weave together your thoughts in an organized and easy-flowing way. Your perspective and interpretation of the events that quite literally changed your life is what the admissions officers are looking for. 

Before submitting your answer to this prompt be sure to ask yourself these questions : 

• Does this prompt tell a story about opportunities or challenges you face while at high school? 
• Is this prompt response told in an organized way? 
• Did you show how your experience shaped who you are today? 

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Short answer section.

With a 10 to 250 word limit , these are true “short answer” questions. Therefore, be sure to stay short and sweet with your answers! Your response can be anywhere from a few sentences to a few paragraphs .

Describe a life event which you feel has prepared you to be successful in college.

This is an extremely broad question. Therefore, try to narrow down your most influential life event. 

Consider the following questions when brainstorming for this prompt’s response:

• What challenges have you faced that have changed your life? 
• How have you overcome obstacles in your life? 
• What are your most dominant traits?
• How are you prepared to become successful in college? 
• What do you want to do in the future? 
• What skills have you developed over the years? 
• How will you thrive at Texas A&M? 
• Who has helped you through your academic and social journey in high school?

Once you have narrowed down to your most influential life event, you should then describe this event in a narrative way. After describing said event, detail how it has impacted you. What have you learned that will make your college experience more successful?

Tell us about the person who has most impacted your life and why.

Right after reading this prompt, someone popped into your mind. Who was it? However, if you are not content with this person try brainstorming impactful people in your life. 

Think about the following to help you brainstorm people: 

• Family members
• Celebrities
• Historical figures

Once you have determined who has had the greatest impact on your life, describe them and your relationship with them. Are they a friend? Did you read their book every night? Are they still alive? Once you have introduced this person and your relationship to them, highlight how they impacted your life. 

Questions to consider: 

• Did this person teach you anything? 
• Would you be the person you are today without this person’s influence? 
• How exactly was this person impactful in your life? 

Short answer #3

If there are additional personal challenges, hardships, or opportunities (including COVID related experiences) that have shaped or impacted your abilities or academic credentials,  which you have not already written about , please note them in the space below.

This question is completely optional, so therefore, do not feel pressured to answer. Only answer this question if you have suffered academic or other types of hardships from COVID. 

Make sure you are not repeating anything that you have already written about in your application. This prompt is the opportunity to elaborate on circumstances that may have affected your grades, clubs, or anything else found on your application. 

If you choose to respond to this prompt, make sure that you are divulging the full truth. Do not beat around the bush and be specific with facts.  Explain any COVID-related hardships you may have experienced and how they negatively affected you. 

Engineering majors only prompt

“Describe your academic and career goals in the broad field of engineering (including computer science, industrial distribution, and engineering technology). What and/or who has influenced you either inside or outside the classroom that contributed to these goals? It is important to spend time addressing this question as it will be considered as part of the engineering review process. If you have chosen an engineering major for both your first and second choice majors, you will see the same question twice and may provide the same response to both questions.

Ultimately this question asks you to narrow down your engineering goals for a better understanding of you as an engineering student. Think about which field of engineering you specifically want to pursue and then think about what future goals you have for yourself. 

Consider the following questions:

• What career do you see yourself thriving in? 
• Why do you want to pursue this field? 
• What has influenced you to fulfill these goals? 
• Do you have any figures you look up to in this field? 
• How will your interests and talents be put to use in this field? 

After addressing the answers to a few of these questions, it is then important to address any experience you have had in this engineering field. 

Consider the following questions: 

• How did you become interested in this field? (YouTube video, teacher, parent, etc.) 
• Were you in any engineering or related clubs in high school? 
• Have you volunteered anywhere in the engineering community? 

Lastly, you should tie your response back to Texas A&M. 

Think about the following questions to help you tie your response back to Texas A&M

• What resources does Texas A&M have to help you reach your future and career goals?
• Are there any organizations you are looking to join?
• What specific classes are you excited to take? (Use the actual names of these classes!) 
• How will Texas A&M help you better than other schools? 

Final thoughts on the Texas A&M supplemental essays

The Texas A&M supplemental essays might seem a little daunting at first. However, there is no need to worry if you read every prompt carefully and outline your responses prior to writing. This will help you narrow down what to discuss in your prompt responses.

The most important thing is to be authentically you. Texas A&M is looking for unique, creative, and ambitious students to join their incoming freshman class to become part of their Aggie community. So, just be yourself!

Once you complete your Texas A&M supplemental essays, be sure to check over your writing for any mistakes and that you are answering the questions completely. Best of luck on your academic journey, and make sure that you apply for all the scholarships you qualify for!

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Additional resources

At Scholarships360, we offer free college admissions information at your fingertips. We understand that the college admissions process is challenging, and have tried our best to provide resources that can help you. 

Check out our following guides to help you navigate through college admissions: 

• How to write a 500 word essay
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• How to write an essay about yourself

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The New Texas A&M Essay Prompts

• Sasha Chada
• September 14, 2021

Table of Contents

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Texas A&M has added three new essay prompts for students applying this fall, which is three more essays than they required last year. This change has made many students nervous, as this seems like a major shift, and may impact their chances of admission. We believe this change has come due to the decreased importance of standardized tests during the Coronavirus pandemic.

While we already created a guide to Texas A&M , we thought it would be helpful for students if we also provided analysis of the essays the school required. In this article, we’ll go over the three new essay questions, give examples of how they can be answered, and discuss what Texas A&M is looking for.

Diversity Essay Example

Texas A&M University believes that diversity is an important part of academic excellence and that it is essential to living our core values. Describe the benefits of diversity and inclusion for you and for the Texas A&M campus community. Please share any personal experiences that have shaped your views. (300 words)

An emphasis on diversity prevents a community from collapsing into dull uniformity and close-mindedness. I am deeply aware of the upshot of diversity in this respect, but making sure an abstract ideal becomes more than a mere catchphrase or empty aspiration can be tricky. Diversity has to be cultivated; it doesn’t necessarily arise by itself when a bunch of very different people are brought together. Factionalism can set in even in those places where, on paper, a diverse set of people are working together, attending school, or playing sports on a team. I think that for diversity to become a reality, there needs to be those who take it upon themselves to establish communication between separate groups. I see myself at Texas A&M – which already has a vibrant sense of community – working as a moderator between friends and classmates to effect constructive dialogue. I have experience navigating the dicey waters of diversity.

The past two elections were obviously some of the most divisive periods in our nation’s history and my school community was not spared the fallout. With friends belonging to different camps, I would frequently find myself in the midst of one of those soul-crushing shouting matches where everyone seems to be talking past each other. I have always had a strong moral compass, and, although I’m no expert when it comes to politics, I am willing to call out hypocrisy when I see it. When one day a difference of aesthetic preference regarding Trump Tower quickly degenerated into a conflict that nearly approached fisticuffs, I knew I had to do something. I decided that I should avoid partisanship and expose the hypocrisies and quandaries of both sides of the political spectrum. My intervention was effective, and, as the emotions simmered, actual constructive dialogue began.

Diversity Essay Analysis

This prompt is fairly explicit in what it is asking for, and what position it takes. It is, however, looking for two separate things in the same essay. The first is an explanation of what you believe the benefits of diversity are, both for yourself and for Texas A&M. The second is an exploration of how your personal experiences shaped your beliefs on diversity.

In answering the first part of this question, you should focus on your personal reasons for embracing diversity. You should try to create a response which is not cliched, and which does not read like a Hallmark card. In the example above, the author discusses how diversity is not a state of existence, but a process, one which must be worked at in order to be maintained.

In doing this, the author shows a deep understanding of how diversity works at an institution like Texas A&M, and demonstrates a willingness to contribute to that diversity. Colleges want to admit students who will actively participate in their communities, and contribute to the culture they have worked to build. The second half of this essay is where you can provide an example of this capability. By showing how you personally encountered diversity, you demonstrate to the university how you are able to contribute to it in the future.

In the example above, the author discusses diversity of political opinions. This can be a controversial topic, but is quite relevant in our current times. While the author does not take a political stance in this essay, that does not mean you cannot. We do, however, recommend being cautious when taking a contentious political stance. Admissions officers are people too, and if your essay comes across as combative, they may think poorly of your application.

This is a good example of how diversity can cover many different traits. You can write about race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, nationality, socio-economic status, politics, or even lighter fare. Being a female wrestler or a male ballet dancer both count as diversity, and can lead to interesting essays. Whatever you write about, you should demonstrate how you will contribute to the school’s community if you are admitted. Again, many of these topics can be quite sensitive, and we urge you to use tact and cautious editing when writing this essay.

Personal Impact Essay Example

Tell us about the person who has most impacted your life and why. (300 words)

The lessons that my dad drilled into me can be condensed into the following aphorism: it isn’t how hard you hit, but how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. When serving his community and church, he has had his fair share of dealings with disgruntled or troubled people who were going through a lot. Sometimes those people would lash out at him, but my dad is unperturbable. He maintains zen-like equanimity and never lets unpleasant behavior compromise his empathy.

Life includes many frustrations and unforeseen anxieties. Keeping a level head is perhaps the most crucial skill to have nowadays. When my family was driving to Colorado during an unbelievably fierce blizzard, we suddenly realized we were low on gas. Then snow, somehow, got even worse. It looked like downy blankets of white were being thrown on the windshield. Everyone in the car was in full panic mode, except my dad. If he felt the same terror that gripped me, he didn’t show it. Rather than being annoyed at my mom’s anxiety-ridden but essentially useless vocalizations, he somehow managed to comfort her and us with reassuring words and timely humor. All the while, without being able to see two feet in front of the car, he managed to get us to a gas station.

It’s that kind of experience that has really cemented my admiration for my dad. The guy is enormously compassionate in situations where there simply isn’t time for empathy. Many people with his level of toughness tend to be rough around the edges. Not so with my dad; he never lets clouds, tantrums, mistakes, breakdowns, personal conflicts, disgruntled folks, or general bad luck, darken his heart of gold.

Personal Impact Essay Analysis

In contrast to the first prompt, this essay is far more open in regards to subject matter. While you can write about most anyone, family members are likely to be a common choice, as we see in the essay above. This is completely reasonable; it makes sense that the person who has raised you since birth would have a major impact on who you are as a person. This essay, however, merely asks about impact on you, which means there are several directions you can take this essay.

It is important to consider what the university is looking for when they ask this question. As with all other essay prompts, what Texas A&M wants to know with this is some of who you are as a person, and what your values are. The person who impacted you most, and the values they instilled, says something important about what your values are, and how you will impact others once you reach college.

In the example above, the author discusses his father, and the virtue of equanimity. The ability to face problems calmly, and deal with them in an adult manner, regardless of the challenges life presents.

This is a good value to demonstrate for colleges, and has the advantage of being uncommon. The less common a value is, the more likely your essay is to stand out, and the more likely admissions officers are to take note of what you say. You can talk about more common values, but these should be discussed in uncommon ways. For example, discussing strength in vulnerability, or patience through an uncommon past-time.

In the example above, the author uses driving through a snow storm to demonstrate calm under pressure, and show the impact of equanimity. The ability to remain calm and collected under pressure, and to spread that calm to others, is quite helpful at college, which is notoriously stressful.

Whatever you decide to write about, you should show how the person impacted you, and how those impacts have turned you into the person you are today, and how that person will be a positive impact on campus. This person can be a family member, a teacher, or even a stranger, though you would need some very persuasive writing to make the latter option make sense.

Life Event Essay Example

Describe a life event which you feel has prepared you to be successful in college. (300 words)

Back before climate change habituated us to 100+ degree days as a matter of course, 95 degrees was sufficient to earn a day the label of “scorcher”. My teammates and I were preparing to run our district race for cross country, and were already dripping with sweat. When the gun went off, we rushed to the top of the pack and hoped to cement that early lead. We had put some distance between ourselves and the rest of the competitors when, out of the corner of my eye, I saw my coach, arms akimbo, flailing like a madman to get our attention. We had taken a wrong turn – a 200 meter wrong turn. Not good.

At that catastrophic moment, there were two options. #1: quit in the face of a seemingly insurmountable mistake. #2: turn around and finish the race.

When we halted, seconds ticked by in indecision. I broke our paralysis with a barbaric yawp of “let’s go!” and charged in the other direction.

Once we got back on the course, we were in the back of the pack. Naturally, I was horrifically discouraged about having led my teammates the wrong way. The idea that I had potentially squandered our one chance to win our first-ever district race was devastating. But I didn’t crumble. Instead, I pushed my teammates up the last mile, catching one runner after another. The distance between us and the rest of the runners seemed to shrink. Before we knew it, I was in third place with my teammates tracking behind me, with a half a mile to go. Once we got to the final kick, I was able to push through and finished first, with my best friend and former teammate getting second. We got lucky that day; in other circumstances we might have finished last, failing to reach our goal. But it’s one thing to fail and another thing entirely to give up. I prefer the former.

Life Event Essay Analysis

This essay can be about almost anything, and we recommend you cross apply another essay you have written which fits within the prompt. This is also a good place to explore one of your extracurricular activities you have not had an opportunity to discuss yet. Whatever you write about, it should demonstrate how you are prepared for the rigors of collegiate life.

In the example above, the author discusses adversity and perseverance during a race. While this topic is a bit cliched, that does not mean you can’t write about it, merely that you have to approach such topics with care. Cliches are used so often because they are so widely applicable; they are tools like any other.

The main value expressed by the author is perseverance, especially in the face of their own mistakes. Mistakes happen; that’s a part of life. What matters is how you react to them, and what you do next. In this essay, the author shows their willingness to work to rectify their own mistakes, and to accept the responsibility for their errors.

These are both traits which colleges like to see, as this attitude indicates maturity, and a willingness to self-evaluate honestly. Perseverance in the face of adversity is also important for college, where the classes will likely be far more challenging than what you had to deal with in high school.

When you answer this prompt, you can choose any of your values to focus on. We recommend discussing values that did not get covered in your other essays, so that you give admissions officers the most complete picture of who you are possible. You should also talk about an event or experience that your other essays did not cover, for the same reason. Admissions officers only know what you tell them, so you should try to tell them as much as possible.

Final Thoughts

While the new essay requirements from Texas A&M feel jarring, they are not altogether surprising. College admissions have been changed by the Covid-19 pandemic, and now colleges are beginning to respond and react. Texas A&M is no longer able to rely as heavily on standardized test scores, and so now they have introduced mandatory essays as a metric by which to evaluate students.

Preparing for tests and writing essays are different demands, but it is entirely possible to succeed at both. If you feel overwhelmed, or want advice on writing your own Texas A&M essays, don’t hesitate to schedule a free consultation . We have a depth of experience helping students with every aspect of college admissions, and are always happy to hear from you.

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Texas A&M University Supplemental Essay Guide: 2021-2022

Not sure how to approach the Texas A&M essay prompts? CollegeAdvisor.com’s guide to the Texas A&M application essays will breakdown the Texas A&M essay requirements and show you exactly how to write engaging Texas A&M essays to maximize your chances of admission. If you need help answering the Texas A&M essay prompts, create your free or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272.

Texas A&M Essay Guide Quick Facts

• Acceptance rate of 63.0%— U.S. News ranks Texas A&M as a more selective school. 
• Every student must submit a Texas A&M essay through ApplyTexas or The Coalition Application . If you are applying as an engineer, you must write an additional Texas A&M essay.

Does Texas A&M have any supplemental essays?

Yes, there are two Texas A&M application essays. The Essay tab of Admission’s Freshman Application Page , lists the Texas A&M essay requirements. You’ll find both Texas A&M essay prompts there. In the first essay, you’ll share a bit about your high school career. The second, is an engineering-specific short answer question.

Does Texas A&M require a supplemental essay?

Yes, the Texas A&M requirements require all applicants to write Texas A&M application essays. While there are two Texas A&M essay prompts, there is only one required Texas A&M essay. Only students applying to the College of Engineering need to answer both Texas A&M essay prompts. 

To summarize, students applying as engineers will write two Texas A&M admissions essays. All other non-engineering students will write one Texas A&M essay. Now that we have established the Texas A&M essay requirements, let’s write those Texas A&M admissions essays!

How do I write my Texas A&M supplemental essay?

After you’ve reviewed the Texas A&M essay requirements, you can begin brainstorming topics for your Texas A&M essays.  Remember, there isn’t a perfect topic or a formulaic approach to writing your essay. Your Texas A&M admissions essays are an opportunity to infuse your application with your life, personality, and voice. Rather than trying to impress Admissions with your Texas A&M essays, go for honesty! That means being true to yourself and your experiences. 

No matter what topic you end up choosing to write about in your Texas A&M essays, it is important you remember your audience. Your Texas A&M application essays are part of an application, so you need to appeal to the needs of your reader: the Admissions team. They are looking to get a sense of who you are and how you’ll add to the vibrancy of their student body.

Here are three questions you should keep in mind when writing each of your Texas A&M admissions essays:

• Have I answered the prompt in my Texas A&M essay?
• Does my Texas A&M essay reflect who I am?
• Do I show how I will be an asset to the school’s community in my Texas A&M essay?

Now that we have our essay goals in mind, let’s move on to the first step: brainstorming. We have provided the 2021-2022 Texas A&M essay prompts below. You’ll find a breakdown of how to approach each question, as well as tips for writing Texas A&M application essays that will help you stand out in admissions. 

Texas A&M essay – Question 1 (Required)

Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today? (no word limit).

The Texas A&M essay prompts do not have specified word limits. Because there is only one required Texas A&M essay and this prompt is open-ended, we suggest sticking between approximately 500-700 words. Remember, if your essay is too short, you may not be telling a complete or detailed story. Too long, and you may not keep your reader’s attention.

Generate ideas

This Texas A&M essay is going to be about cause and effect. As you brainstorm , split your page into two columns: “Opportunities/Challenges” and “How I Was Affected.” The first column addresses the “what” part of your Texas A&M essay. The prompt asks about plural opportunities or challenges. Therefore, it is important you write down as many memories you can think of, as you’ll likely be picking more than one to include in your Texas A&M essay. Also, this prompt specifically asks about your high school career . Restrict your brainstorming to high school memories. 

The second column will be the “why” of your Texas A&M essay. Why is it important for the admissions team to hear this story? For each opportunity or challenge, write a corresponding bullet point that summarizes what you learned, how you grew, why you were proud of yourself, or why it was important to you.

Look for patterns

Once you’ve completed your brainstorm, start looking for patterns or ways to group your experiences. Was there a particular class you grew in? Perhaps there was a challenge that later reappeared as an opportunity. Or maybe there’s an aspect of your personality that shined through in multiple situations.

Whatever you settle on, be sure to refer to the three objectives before you start drafting your Texas A&M essay. This breakdown has already helped you be sure you are responding to the prompt, so you need to be sure the story you’ve outlined will reflect something about who you are and how you might positively impact Texas A&M’s community.

Tell your story

All that’s left to do is tell your story. As you begin drafting your Texas A&M application essays, be sure you aren’t simply listing facts or details. Instead, string them together with your thoughts, feelings, and interpretations. Even if the events on paper are simple, your voice is what makes will make you stand out .

Essay Draft Key Questions:

• Does your Texas A&M essay tell a story about opportunities or challenges you faced in high school? 
• Did you show how your experiences helped shape who you are?
• Does your Texas A&M essay have a point of view?

Texas A&M essay – Question 2 (Required for Engineering Applicants)

Describe your academic and career goals in the broad field of engineering (including computer science, industrial distribution, and engineering technology). What and/or who has influenced you either inside or outside the classroom that contributed to these goals? (no word limit).

According to the Texas A&M essay requirements, all applicants to the School of Engineering must respond to a second prompt and write a total of two Texas A&M admissions essays. Neither of the Texas A&M essay prompts has word counts, so there is no specific word limit for your Texas A&M essays. Because this question is more straightforward, we suggest keeping your second Texas A&M essay between 300-500 words.

Although the topics are different, both Texas A&M essay prompts are cause & effect questions. For this brainstorm, split your page into two columns: “Academic and Career Goals” and “Who/What Inspires Me.” List out what you hope to learn and the kind of work and research you might want to do at college as well as the kind of positions or work you’d like to hold or be involved in post-graduation (including grad school if you’re already thinking of attending). Remember, whatever you include on your inspiration list needs to have “contributed to these goals,” so as you list people, topics, or events, also write down how they helped lead you to your goals. 

Focus on what’s important

Once you have all the information and details you’d like to include, all you need to do is write about them in a way that shows who you are and what is important to you. For example, if you already know the kind of job you’d like to have one day, you could start with your academic goals, reflect upon your inspirations, and end with your career aspirations. Or if there was one pivotal moment that has defined your path, maybe start with that moment and tell the story of how that has led you to have the goals you have today.

Everyone’s goals and inspirations will be specific to them. However, a strong Texas A&M essay should focus on your passion for engineering. Let that passion shine through in your writing, and you’ll be sure to have Texas A&M application essays that will blow the admissions team away. 

• Did you describe your academic and career goals in your Texas A&M essay? 
• Have you shown what has inspired you to reach for these goals?
• Does your Texas A&M essay reflect your passion?

What does Texas A&M look for in essays?

To begin, you should think of the Texas A&M essays as a chance to introduce yourself. They’re also an opportunity to set yourself apart from other applicants. Therefore, you’ll want to write your Texas A&M application essays in your own voice and show how your unique experiences have impacted how you view the world. The admissions team cares about more than just your grades and test scores; they care about the person behind the numbers.

Although it is not specifically mentioned in the Texas A&M essay requirements, it is expected your essays have the correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation. In addition to telling your story, the admissions department is looking for Texas A&M admissions essays that are clear and polished. Excellent editing and proofreading are a must. The less distracted your reader is by little mistakes, the easier it will be to focus on the story your Texas A&M essays are telling.  

Tips for writing Texas A&M essays

In addition to providing the Texas A&M essay requirements, the university has a College Readiness page with resources and tips to help you through the application process. Be sure to review these tips on the website or below.  Approaching the Texas A&M application essays can be daunting. CollegeAdvisor offers 39 Essay Tips from Admissions Experts that will you navigate the writing process.

Answer the question

Our guide has already broken down the Texas A&M essay prompts to be sure you’ve answered the question completely. As you settle on a topic, be sure to use your Texas A&M admissions essays as an opportunity to touch on something not mentioned anywhere else in your application. Although the Texas A&M essay requirements don’t specifically tell you to, providing new information will help give the admissions team a full picture of who you are and the experiences that have prepared you for college.

Be authentic

We’ve said to “use your voice,” which is just another way to say be authentic. While it is important you keep your audience in mind (and specifically use language appropriate to the formality of a college application), it is also important you stay true to who you are. There’s no need to try to sound smarter or funnier or more serious in your Texas A&M essays than you do in real life – Admissions wants you to be yourself. 

Focus on details

The details you include will make your Texas A&M application essays stand out from the rest. Even if your circumstances or experiences seem like everybody else’s, your experience of them is what makes them special and unique to you. Being specific will also help bring your story to life and help drop your reader into your shoes so they can better understand who you are and what you bring to the table. 

Proofread your essay

Proofread, proofread, proofread! Grammar or spelling mistakes aren’t the end of the world. However, they do distract your reader from what is important: your story. Whether or not you are a strong proofreader, have a second pair of eyes on your Texas A&M essays. A teacher, counselor, or guardian is a great place to start. Even a fellow peer can be a good resource. Most importantly, your reader should give feedback on both grammar and story. This will ensure your final draft is as polished as it can be. 

As you begin compiling all the information you’ll need for your application, check out the Admissions blog for prospective students. Additionally, if you’d like more tips from Texas A&M’s undergraduate admissions team on approaching your essays, check out this video on telling your story!

Texas A&M Supplemental Essays: Final Thoughts

If the essay requirements seem daunting to you, remember that the admissions team wants to be impressed by you. There are so many types of students and people in the world. It is impossible to know who a person is by their grades and test scores alone. Consequently, the admissions teams reads the Texas A&M admissions essays to get a better understanding of each candidate as a person. Unlike the other aspects of your application, you have complete control over your Texas A&M application essays. Take that freedom and use your Texas A&M essays to show them your best, most curious self. Start early. Then, you’ll have time to brainstorm, draft, edit, rewrite, and proofread. With a little preparation, your Texas A&M application essays can wow the admissions team.

This 2021-2022 essay guide on Texas A&M was written by Stefanie Tedards. For more CollegeAdvisor.com resources on Texas A&M, click here . Want help crafting your Texas A&M admissions essays? Create your free account or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272.

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Texas A&M State Of Diversity Report: ‘We Can Do Better’

Texas A&M University has released its 2020 State of Diversity Report.

In the 2010 Diversity Plan, the university acknowledged that it “cannot achieve academic excellence without paying attention to and drawing from the richness and strength reflected in the diversity in our state and nation.” According to the Texas A&M Office for Diversity, the purpose of the 2020 State of Diversity Report is to explore how Texas A&M University is advancing its land-grant mission to welcome and to serve people “of all racial, ethnic and geographic groups as it addresses the needs of an increasingly diverse population and a global economy.”

The report shows both progress in the areas of diversity and inclusion, as well as areas needing improvement, said Vice President and Associate Provost for Diversity Robin Means Coleman.

“Progress has been evident in Texas A&M’s institutional commitment to diversity and inclusion and its candid, transparent and ongoing assessment of campus climate and equity,” Coleman said. “The major successes are the countless students, faculty, staff and former students who have been doing this important work for a long time and are wholly invested in making Texas A&M a place where everyone shares a sense of belonging and everyone is treated equitably.”

Such efforts include campus-wide advisory groups, and annual assessment and evaluation. In 2019, and again this year, Texas A&M has been awarded for it’s diversity and inclusion efforts for two consecutive years, 2019 and 2020, by I NSIGHT into Diversity , a prestigious publication that recognizes colleges and universities for outstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion.

While the narrative of the State of Diversity Report is optimistic about Texas A&M’s progress in advancing diversity and inclusion, simultaneously it recognizes that the university needs to identify and dismantle systemic racist and discriminatory practices, said Assistant Vice President for Diversity Jennifer Reyes.

“Explicitly stated, dismantling systemic racism and discrimination requires an unrelenting dedication to examine practices and policies that impact admissions, hiring, promotion, graduation, resource allocation, budgeting, safety, course evaluations and expressive activity,” Reyes said.

Report recommendations

Coleman summarized the four major recommendations from the report:

• Student, faculty and staff leadership in the campus community must be committed, in practice and publicly, to promoting and advancing diversity, inclusion and equity
• Texas A&M’s primary concern must be for the physical safety and psychological well-being of current students, faculty and staff
• As a land-grant university, Texas A&M’s students, faculty and staff should be representative of the demographic diversity of the state of Texas
• Texas A&M is working to decrease achievement disparities across ethnicity, first-generation status, gender and socioeconomic status to ensure that academic achievement and graduation are realistic goals for every student.

A student’s perspective

Redeem Francis ’21, from Crowley, Texas, is a 3+2 student at the Bush School of Government and Public Service and works as a student assistant in the Office for Diversity.

“Through my job, I get the unique experience of witnessing the amazing efforts that groups such as the Diversity Operations Committee (DOC) and the President’s Council on Climate and Diversity (PCCD) make in order to create a more inclusive campus and hold the various departments accountable to diversity efforts,” Francis said, adding the university needs to do a better job of communicating these efforts to students.

“Most students don’t know that diversity work is constantly being done and I believe that’s where the university can improve its efforts,” she said. “Transparency is needed so that students feel that their voices are heard and that their opinions are taken into consideration.”

Francis said her duties for the Office for Diversity include planning and coordinating special events, assisting in research projects including data analysis and literature reviews, and providing customer service to faculty, students, staff and community members regarding diversity efforts and initiatives.

“The most challenging part of our job is dealing with situations that don’t seem to have an easy or explicit answer and then making sure that our campus community feels supported in the answers and resources we provide,” she said.

Francis said she’s been able to have “amazing experiences” including participation in the 2019-20 Race, Identity & Social Equity (RISE) Fellowship, a yearlong initiative to research issues of race, identity and social equity, as well as attending and co-presenting at the 2019 NCORE annual meeting in Portland, Oregon.

Inclusion Is Everyone’s Job

After she graduates in 2022, Francis said she hopes to work toward becoming an executive director for a nonprofit organization that assists survivors of sexual and domestic abuse.

She said she continues to have hope that Texas A&M will rise to the complex challenges surrounding issues of diversity, inclusion and equity.

“Texas A&M has come a long way, but we have further to go to make this a university in which all feel represented and included,” she said.

To reach that goal, Reyes said everyone must contribute. “Everyone in the campus community shares the responsibility of creating a campus climate that fosters success and achievement for all,” she said. “We must communicate decisively and demonstrate our core values by embracing inclusion and rejecting hate. We can do the right thing by standing up for those who have been harmed.”

In light of the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer and the resulting demonstrations for racial justice across the nation, Coleman said Aggies must ground themselves in the core values and lead by example.

“Now more than ever, I want to implore our community to spread our Aggie core value of respect far and wide,” she said. “Without respect, fear and ignorance can take hold. As Aggies, we will not engage in fearmongering. As Aggies, we embrace our core value of leadership by modeling affirming behaviors and rejecting bias and discrimination. More, as Aggies, we can show others how to love, support and protect people on our campus and in our communities from social stigma and discrimination.”

Media contact: Lesley Henton, [email protected]

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, a&m diversity.

Hey y'all, I've been considering applying to Texas A&M, and diversity is an important factor for me. Do any current students or recent grads from A&M know how diverse the campus is in terms of race, ethnicity, and international students? Are there efforts to increase diversity on campus?

Hello! Texas A&M is certainly aware of the importance of diversity and has made efforts to foster it on campus. For context, according to the most recent data, Texas A&M's student population is around 58% White, 22% Hispanic, 6% Asian, and 2% African American. International students make up approximately 6% of the student body. While these numbers may not seem exceptional at first glance, it's important to note that the university is actively engaged in making the campus more diverse and inclusive.

One way in which Texas A&M is addressing diversity is through the establishment of the Division of Student Affairs, which houses the Department of Multicultural Services. This department provides programs, resources, and support services aimed at promoting the academic, cultural, and social well-being of underrepresented students at the university. They host a variety of cultural events and educational workshops throughout the year to enhance cultural awareness and promote an inclusive campus environment.

Additionally, Texas A&M has a number of student organizations tailored to various racial, ethnic, and cultural groups. These clubs and organizations offer opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to come together, share experiences, and develop a sense of community. Moreover, these organizations play a crucial role in advocating for the needs and interests of their members, as well as contributing to the broader goal of creating a more inclusive and diverse campus.

Texas A&M has also implemented initiatives to increase the diversity of its faculty by actively recruiting and retaining underrepresented minority faculty members. These efforts not only benefit students from diverse backgrounds, but also contributes to the overall quality of education and research at the university, by ensuring all students can learn from a range of perspectives.

While Texas A&M continues to strive for a more diverse campus, it is vital for prospective students to consider how these efforts align with their individual values and priorities. You may want to visit the campus, connect with current students, attend a cultural event, or participate in a diversity-related workshop to get a better sense of how Texas A&M meets your expectations in terms of diversity and inclusion, as perception of diversity can be subjective.

If you do end up applying to Texas A&M and want tips on how to maximize your chances of acceptance, check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down how to tackle their application essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-texas-am-university-essays/. The essays are a great place to showcase what you personally would bring to Texas A&M's already-vibrant campus community.

Good luck with your search for the perfect, diverse college experience!

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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Texas A&M University Admission Essays

Introduction to texas a&m university essays.

Texas A&M University, renowned for its academic excellence and rich traditions, offers a unique platform for students to grow and learn. As part of the application process, the Texas A&M essays play a crucial role in helping the admissions committee understand the applicant beyond academic scores. This guide will explore various aspects of writing compelling essays for Texas A&M, including Texas A&M essay examples and Texas A&M application essay examples, to help you in your application journey.

Known for its diverse and inclusive environment, Texas A&M University stands as a beacon of higher learning and research. The university values essays that reflect the applicant's character, aspirations, and alignment with the university's ethos. Understanding the culture and values of Texas A&M is vital for writing essays that resonate with the admissions committee.

Essential Tips for Crafting Texas A&M University Essays

The process of writing Texas A&M University admission essays requires thoughtful consideration and strategic execution. The first and foremost rule is authenticity. Your essay should be a true reflection of your personality and experiences. It's essential to tell your story in a way that is genuine and engaging. The admissions committee is looking to understand who you are beyond grades and test scores. They are interested in your journey, your aspirations, and how you can contribute to the Texas A&M community.

Avoid falling into the trap of clichés and overused phrases. Essays littered with these often fail to stand out and can diminish the personal touch. Instead, delve into personal anecdotes and experiences that provide a window into your life. These narratives should offer insight into your character, your values, and how you approach challenges and opportunities. This approach not only makes your essay more interesting but also showcases your individuality.

Another critical aspect of essay writing is clarity and coherence. Your essay should be well-organized, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Each paragraph should flow logically to the next, making your story easy to follow. Pay attention to your language and style. While creativity is encouraged, your main goal should be to communicate your ideas clearly and effectively.

Proofreading is a vital step in the essay-writing process. Grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and awkward phrasing can detract from the quality of your essay. Take the time to review your essay multiple times and consider having it proofread by mentors, teachers, or peers. They can offer valuable feedback and help you polish your essay to perfection.

Lastly, ensure your essay aligns with the values and ethos of Texas A&M University. Research the university thoroughly and understand its culture, academic programs, and community life. Your essay should reflect why you are a good fit for Texas A&M and how the university can help you achieve your future goals.

How to Write the Texas A&M Essays

Crafting compelling essays for Texas A&M University involves a strategic approach that combines personal storytelling with structured writing. Here are five essential steps to follow in order to create an impactful and memorable essay:

• Brainstorming Personal Experiences: Begin by reflecting on your life experiences, challenges, achievements, and moments of growth. Think about instances that have significantly influenced your perspective or path. This stage is about gathering raw material for your essay – the more personal and detailed, the better.
• Identifying Key Themes: From your brainstormed experiences, identify central themes that relate to your aspirations and values. These themes should connect to what Texas A&M University stands for and what you aim to achieve in your academic and professional journey. This step is crucial in aligning your personal story with the ethos of the university.
• Structuring Your Essay: Organize your thoughts into a coherent structure. A strong essay typically has an engaging introduction, a well-developed body that elaborates on your experiences and reflections, and a conclusion that ties everything back to your aspirations and fit with Texas A&M. Ensure each part contributes meaningfully to your overall narrative.
• Writing with Clarity and Creativity: With your structure in place, start writing your essay. Aim for clarity in your expression and creativity in your storytelling. Use specific examples and vivid descriptions to bring your story to life. Remember, your goal is to make a lasting impression on the admissions committee.
• Revision and Feedback: Once your first draft is complete, revise it for clarity, coherence, and impact. Check for grammatical errors and awkward phrasings. It's also beneficial to seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or peers. They can provide valuable insights and suggest improvements to enhance the quality of your essay.

Writing the Texas A&M essays is an opportunity to showcase your unique personality, experiences, and suitability for the university. By following these steps, you can create essays that not only fulfill the application requirements but also capture your true self.

Texas A&M Supplemental Essay Prompts

Texas A&M University offers various supplemental essay prompts that allow students to showcase different facets of their personality and aspirations. These prompts are designed to gauge your fit with the university's culture and values. Let's explore some of these prompts and provide Texas A&M supplemental essays examples to guide you.

Sample Essay: "In my junior year, I was elected captain of the school's debate team. This role was not only about strategy and public speaking but also about nurturing a sense of team spirit and collaboration. I learned to listen, motivate, and guide my peers, which translated into our team winning the state championship. This experience shaped my goal to pursue a career in law, aspiring to be a leader who advocates for justice and change. At Texas A&M, I look forward to joining the debate team and continuing to hone my leadership skills in a collegiate setting."

Sample Essay: "The most significant challenge I faced was adapting to a new country and culture after moving from Mexico to the U.S. during high school. The language barrier and cultural differences made the transition difficult. However, I embraced the challenge, dedicating myself to learning English and understanding the new culture. I volunteered in community events to improve my language skills and engage with my new community. This experience taught me resilience and adaptability, traits I believe will be beneficial at Texas A&M as I engage with a diverse student body and face academic challenges."

Sample Essay: "My interest in environmental science began when I participated in a local river clean-up and realized the impact of human activities on natural ecosystems. I want to explore sustainable solutions to environmental challenges, and Texas A&M's cutting-edge research and community engagement initiatives make it the ideal place for my studies. The university's commitment to sustainability aligns with my aspirations to contribute to environmental conservation efforts. I am particularly excited about the hands-on research opportunities and the prospect of working with esteemed professors in this field."

Texas A&M Essay Examples

Reviewing various Texas A&M college essay examples can offer a clearer picture of what a successful application looks like. Successful essays typically showcase the writer's personal story, align with their academic and career goals, and reflect an understanding of Texas A&M's values. Below are ten hypothetical essay topics that could serve as a starting point for writing a compelling essay for Texas A&M University. While it's important to draw inspiration from these examples, remember to infuse your essays with your own unique experiences and perspectives.

• Overcoming Personal Adversity to Achieve Academic Success (narrating a journey of personal challenges and how they fueled academic aspirations)
• My Inspiration to Pursue Engineering (a story of how a childhood fascination with gadgets led to choosing an engineering major)
• Volunteering Experiences Shaping Career Goals (describing how community service experiences influenced career choices in public service or healthcare)
• Leadership in High School Sports (deflecting on the lessons learned as a team captain and how these lessons translate to future ambitions)
• Passion for Environmental Activism (discussing involvement in environmental causes and how this passion aligns with environmental studies at Texas A&M
• Cultural Exchange Experience (sharing insights gained from an exchange program or multicultural environment and its impact on personal growth
• A Family Business's Influence (exploring how growing up in a family-run business environment inspired entrepreneurial aspirations
• The Role of Technology in Modern Education (analyzing personal experiences with technology in learning and aspirations to improve educational tech solutions
• Artistic Endeavors and Personal Development (describing how involvement in the arts has shaped personal and academic goals
• Interest in Agricultural Sciences (telling a story of a rural upbringing or experiences with farming and how it led to an interest in studying agricultural sciences at Texas A&M

Remember, while these examples serve as inspiration, the most effective essays will be those that are deeply personal and reflective of your unique experiences, perspectives, and understanding of what Texas A&M University offers.

In conclusion, the Texas A&M essays are a critical component of your application. They offer an opportunity to present yourself in a way that transcends your academic achievements. Utilize these tips, examples, and insights to craft essays that truly reflect who you are and how you resonate with the values and opportunities at Texas A&M University.

Texas A&M: The Ideal Place for Academic Growth and Community Engagement

I was always captivated by the charm of Texas. Its rich history, vibrant culture, and genuine hospitality have always fascinated me. As I embark on the next chapter of my educational journey, I find myself drawn to Texas A&M University, a prestigious institution that embodies…

From EduConnect to Texas A&M: Continuing the Journey

Innovation and entrepreneurship have always been at the core of my personality. Since a young age, I have been captivated by the idea of creating something unique that can make a positive impact on people’s lives. Throughout my high school years, I had several opportunities…

Empowering Through Community Service: My Journey as a Leader

As I reflect on my high school years, there is one particular experience that stands out to me as a defining moment in my personal growth and development as a leader. It was during my junior year when I became involved in a community service…

Texas A&M University: My Journey Towards Inclusion

Diversity and inclusion are two essential values that have shaped my personal journey. Growing up in a multicultural household, I have had the privilege of experiencing diversity firsthand. My mother is from India, and my father is from Mexico. Their unique backgrounds and perspectives have…

Discovering the Mind: My Journey into Psychology

I have had a deep fascination with the human mind and behavior. The complexities and intricacies of the human brain have always captivated my interest, and I have always been eager to explore this field further. It is this fascination with psychology that makes me…

My Interest in the Master of Science Program at the Texas A&M University

Within this ‘Texas A&M application essay’ I am applying to the Master of Science program in Computer Science at Texas A&M University. I am very much interested in research being carried out by groups of Prof. Juan Garay and Prof. Guofei Gu. The work carried…

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My Interest In Oil And Gas Management Program

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Application For A Master's Program In Management

Based on the following evidence, I am an excellent candidate for admittance to The University of Melbourne. I am currently studying Business Administration at the University of Bayreuth. During these two years of study, I have found that I am more inclined to marketing management,…

My Motivation To Pursue An MBA Program

From a tender age, curiosity has always had the better part of me. My curiosity is anchored on understanding why things work the way they do and whether there is a way around improving the same. It is for this reason that I felt really…

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Does A&M require 4 additional short essays?

I read in a couple of forums that A&M now requires an additional 3 short essays + 1 engineering, besides the main essay. I could not find that information on the TAMU admission website.

From my understanding there is a short answer question about diversity. That along when engineering and the main essay are the only ones I’ve heard about on here but I’m not able to go through apply Texas to verify…

Short answer should be around 300 words. Big essay 500-750 ish. The more concise the better you are at making your point.

Yes, three short answer this year, including the diversity question. My daughter has already applied, and couldn’t recall the exact wording, but I found this online and she said it sounded correct:

Texas A&M University- 3 Short Answer Questions for all applicants

• Texas A&M University believes that diversity is an important part of academic excellence and that it is essential to living our core values (loyalty, integrity, excellence, leadership, respect, and selfless service). Describe the benefits of diversity and inclusion for you personally and for the Texas A&M campus community. (250-300 words)
• Tell us about the person who has most impacted your life and why.
• Describe a life event which you feel has prepared you to be successful in college.

I had an argument with my S22 this morning. Besides 3 short answers, 1 engineering essay, what is the other one? We are OOS, will apply through Coalition. Does he need to write an essay form the topics that are listed on Coalition? I said Yes, he said NO.

Yes, you are correct. Main essay from the choices on Coalition or ApplyTexas. Plus short answer questions.

Wow that’s a lot of writing. When my son applied in 2018 for fall 2019, they had 3 long essays so I gues short answer could be better.

Texas A&M College Station Demographics & Diversity Report

Texas a&m college station student population, how many students attend texas a&m university - college station, texas a&m college station undergraduate population.

The full-time Texas A&M College Station undergraduate population is made up of 48% women, and 52% men.

Texas A&M College Station Racial/Ethnic Breakdown of Undergraduates

Texas A&M College Station Graduate Student Population

About 46% of full-time grad students are women, and 54% men.

Texas A&M College Station Racial-Ethnic Breakdown of Graduate Students

Racial/Ethnic Diversity

Texas a&m college station racial demographics:.

High Racial/Ethnic Diversity Among Faculty

Texas A&M University - College Station Faculty Racial/Ethnic Demographics:

Texas A&M College Station Male/Female Diversity

Even balance of male & female teachers.

There are more female teachers than male teachers at this school.

Average Geographic Diversity

The undergraduate student body is split among 44 states (may include Washington D.C.). Click on the map for more detail.

Top 5 States

International Students at Texas A&M College Station

High student age diversity.

A traditional college student is defined as being between the ages of 18-21. At Texas A&M College Station, 60.23% of students fall into that category, compared to the national average of 60%.

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Texas A&M System’s guidance on the state’s DEI ban shows compliance might be a hard needle to thread

The guidance asks universities in the system to avoid using the acronym DEI on their websites and walk a fine line between organizing events that “support diversity in a general way” but don’t “promote preferential treatment of any particular group.”

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The Texas A&M University System issued staff guidance earlier this month on how to comply with the state’s ban on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, providing a first glimpse into how Texas universities are navigating the thorny implementation of the new law.

The guidance, compiled in a list of FAQs , is meant to provide clarity on the law but also shows that university employees trying not to run afoul of the ban may have a hard needle to thread.

Guidance for university website and social media administrators states that “DEI information should not be on university websites, including but not limited to the acronym, DEI, or the phrase ‘diversity, equity, and inclusion.’” Universities might organize events that “support diversity in a general way” but must not “promote preferential treatment of any particular group and are open to everyone.”

It will be the responsibility of every employee to comply with the law’s requirements, the guidance said. The system’s ethics and compliance office will oversee the implementation of the law and receive guidance from its general counsel as situations or questions arise.

In a list of approved revisions by the Board of Regents, the A&M System said it will no longer require faculty job applicants to submit a diversity statement — essays where candidates show their commitment to supporting students from diverse backgrounds and fostering inclusive learning environments — or allow schools to consider race, sex, color or ethnicity as hiring factors. Requiring training or promoting policies related to DEI will also no longer be permitted.

Senate Bill 17, which goes into effect at the beginning of next year , was a high legislative priority this year for Texas Republicans who accused DEI offices and programs of indoctrinating students with left-wing ideology and forcing schools to prioritize hiring based on how much job candidates supported diversity rather than merit. Critics of the law say it is a step backward for higher education in Texas, saying DEI initiatives boost student enrollment numbers among underrepresented populations and help universities hire employees from more diverse backgrounds.

In a message sent to faculty, staff and students earlier this month, Texas A&M University Interim President Mark Welsh III said the school will change its hiring practices and training, dissolve its office for diversity and seek other revisions to university policies.

Other state universities have taken similar steps.

The University of Texas System halted all DEI policies in February and required all universities under the system to develop policies to discipline employees or contractors who break the law. The University of Houston System Chancellor Renu Khator announced in June a list of guidelines the institution will follow in response to the law.

Jim Klein, former president of the Texas Association of College Teachers, said higher education leaders around the state may be interpreting the law differently from one another, with some providing more strict guidelines than others. The law, only seven pages long, leaves some rules up for interpretation, he said.

“My concern now is that I want to make … sure that everybody understands what the law actually says [and] what it doesn't say,” Shields said. “There can be a temptation, by some, to try to overreach and say that this should also be applied to instruction.”

To continue to receive state funding, Texas universities must comply with the ban’s requirements. This includes annual reporting to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to prove compliance with SB 17 before schools can spend state funds.

To ensure compliance with the law, the Texas A&M University System said disciplinary action may be taken against employees or contractors who violate the law. Individuals can report violations to the system’s Ethic Points reporting system.

Student organizations — including those involved in DEI initiatives — are exempt from the law and universities may still provide funds, support and facilities to them.

“It is important to remember that nothing in SB 17 alters our existing obligations under federal and state law, including the anti-discrimination requirements of Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment,” the system’s guidance says. “We must continue to ensure that our programs and activities are open and available to all persons on a non-discriminatory basis.”

Concerns about attracting legislators’ ire over the DEI ban came to a head at A&M earlier this year when the university botched the hiring of Kathleen O. McElroy , a Black journalism professor, to revive the school’s journalism program.

McElroy previously said that her appointment was caught up in “DEI hysteria” as Texas university leaders try to figure out what type of work involving race is allowed under the new law. In text messages the system released as part of an internal review , members of the Board of Regents also raised concerns with her previous job history at The New York Times and pushed back against what they perceive as a liberal agenda in higher education. The debacle ultimately led to the resignation of former A&M President M. Katherine Banks , and José Luis Bermúdez , the former interim dean of the school’s College of Arts and Sciences. Shannon Van Zandt, an executive associate dean in the School of Architecture, also resigned over concerns about political interference in the university’s hiring process.

Disclosure: Texas A&M University, New York Times, Texas A&M University System, University of Texas System and University of Houston have been financial supporters of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here .

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How to Celebrate Juneteenth at TC and Beyond

Find events on campus and around the city that honor freedom day, which commemorates the abolition of slavery in the u.s. and the anniversary of when enslaved african americans in texas were finally freed more than two years after the emancipation proclamation.

With the TC Community 

Witness the impact of black artists.

June 15, June 18 and June 25

At the Metropolitan Museum of Art, visit the “Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism” exhibition, which features work from TC alums Charles Alston and Aaron Douglas . TC alumni can even view the exhibit in special events hosted by TC Alumni & Community Engagement on June 15 and June 25 . 

TC alums Aaron Douglas and  Charles Alston, whose work is currently on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. (Photos: the University of Nebraska and Wikimedia Commons) 

Additionally, in honor of Freedom Day, two notable Black artists will speak to museum visitors about their work and its connections to Juneteenth on June 18. At 11 a.m., Nnenna Ogwo — a pianist, educator and founder of Juneteenth Legacy Project — will perform a piece and offer a deep dive into the connection between music and Juneteenth celebrations. At 1 p.m., artist Beau McCall , who utilizes buttons and upcycled materials in his work, will speak on his connections to Harlem and how buttons are connected to Juneteenth.

Immerse Yourself in Music at the Forum

June 14, 6 p.m.

Gather for a Juneteenth concert at the Forum for its Culture on the Corner event series, which invites the public to celebrate the culture of Harlem. The Unsung Collective, a Harlem-based music collective directed by Tyrone Clinton Jr., will give a classical music performance that will challenge traditional conceptions of Western music by emphasizing musicians of color. RSVP is recommended .

Get Moving with the Juneteenth March

June 19, 1 p.m.

Join Tom Rock, Associate Vice President & Chief Student Affairs Officer for a Juneteenth 5K in Central Park. You can run, walk, or roll through the park in honor of the holiday — rain or shine. Please register and join TC’s team by 1 p.m. EST on June 18. Proceeds from the event will support the Harlem Center, a building that houses more than 30 Black community-based organizations.

Enjoy a Classic Film in the Park

June 19, 8:30 - 10:30 p.m. 

Enjoy a special outdoor screening of The Wiz , presented by Friends of Morningside Park, with TC alumni and other community members. 

Celebrate with the TC Community

June 20, 12 - 2 p.m. 

Come together in community to reflect and celebrate the abolition of slavery in the U.S. with the Office of the Vice President for Diversity and Community Affairs’ (ODCA) annual Juneteenth barbecue. RSVP here by June 12.

Learn About Harlem's History of Activism

June 28, 12:45 - 4 p.m.

Take a three-hour guided tour through Harlem in honor of Freedom Day and learn about the neighborhood's long history of Civil Rights and social justice activism with the Staff Advocacy Support Council (SASC) and ODCA. Stops include the Harriet Tubman Memorial, Apollo Theater, and Hotel Theresa.  Tickets are $20 per person and must be purchased by 5 p.m. EST on June 26

More Ways to Celebrate & Learn

• Explore the new Black Studies curriculum developed by the Black Education Research Center (BERC) at Teachers College, which convened a team of influential Black Studies scholars, educators, and New York City classroom teachers. The culturally-responsive curriculum for NYC public school students is the first of its kind.
• Dive into why the history and meaning of Juneteenth should be taught in schools with Sonya Douglass, Professor of Education Leadership and Director of BERC, who previously discussed the issue at length with Education Week.
• Watch a spoken-word essay about the meaning of Juneteenth from Chris Emdin, Professor of Science Education and Maxine Greene Chair for Distinguished Contributions to Education.

Find additional resources and readings here . 

With NYC 

Join in the 4th annual juneteenth freedom fest.

June 15, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Come to the Adam Clayton Powell Jr State Office Building for a fun-packed day of performances, games, food and arts booths and more. This year’s theme is “Black to the Future” as guests are invited to honor the past, reflect on the present and imagine their futures. The festival is free to attend. 

Center Texas and Western Culture at the Brooklyn Museum

June 15, 12 - 8 p.m. 

Focusing on Texas and Western Black culture, the Brooklyn Museum is honoring Juneteenth with a day of line dancing, art-making, games, and much more. Guests who stay until at least 6 p.m. will get exclusive after-hours access to Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys. Programming is free with Museum admission, which is pay-what-you-wish, but access to Giants requires separate tickets.

Pair Family Fun with Historical Learning  

June 15, 2 - 5 p.m. 

This free, family-friendly celebration in Battery Park City includes a performance by the Juneteenth Legacy Project, a group of classically-trained Black musicians; Dana Butler reading selections from her book Sugar of the Crop, which is based on interviews of Black Americans with parents born during legal slavery; as well as history lessons and horseback rides from the Federation of Black Cowboys. Guests will also be able to paint a Juneteenth flag and browse relevant books and art.

Embrace Musical Expression

June 19, 6 pm. 

At the 2024 Lincoln Center Juneteenth Celebration , experience a day’s worth of concerts  showcasing how music is integral to the Black experience, curated by talented artist and activist Carl Hancock Rux. The day will culminate with a performance by Toshi Reagon and her band, BIGLovely, with the entire program centering on music Reagon learned as a child growing up during the Southern Freedom and Civil Rights Movements. Admission is free and on a first-come first-served basis.

— Sherri Gardner

Published Wednesday, Jun 12, 2024

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131 college scholarships put on hold or modified owing to Texas DEI ban

The start of 2024 was more than just the beginning of a new year in Texas. It was also the date the state’s Senate Bill 17 went into effect, banning diversity, equity, and inclusion, or DEI, programs at public universities in Texas. Six months into that law, though, some unexpected side effects are becoming clear—including the impact on over 100 scholarships for potential students.

A report in the Dallas Morning News finds that 131 scholarships across the state have been frozen or modified as a result of the law, including 80 at Texas A&M and 45 at University of Texas campuses.

The law was meant to end programs like diversity training and similar initiatives at schools, but has also led to schools investigating and sometimes freezing scholarships for non-white students, even those that are privately funded.

In some cases, the wording surrounding eligibility for scholarships is being altered, for instance, changing the term “minority” to “disadvantaged.” Other schools are making bigger changes. For example, the Biotechnology Diversity Scholarship at Texas A&M (because it had the word “diversity” in the title) was modified, and a community-funded scholarship for black female athletes, named for two students who were killed in a car crash, was frozen by the school.

“The scholarships do not have anything to do with that diversity program or the state law,” Sam Butts, father of one of the students who was killed, told the Morning News . “We’re disappointed because that scholarship was set up to help minorities.”

State Sen. Brandon Creighton, who authored the bill, said in a statement to the paper that SB17 was not designed to impact scholarships offered by private organizations and that “the law makes clear that taxpayer funds should not be spent conferring special benefits based on race, color, or ethnicity.”

Because many of those scholarships are administered by schools, though, confusion has arisen.

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Jun. 17, 2024

‘absolutely phenomenal’: rice hosts college preparation camp for urban youth.

Rice University hosted the 14th annual Texas Diversity Council Summer Youth Program June 10-14. This weeklong program engaged 100 students from Houston area high schools and middle schools to provide life lessons and college readiness activities.

“The summer youth program is a collaboration with Rice University and the Texas Diversity Council,” said David Medina, director of multicultural community relations in Rice’s Office of Public Affairs. “We started this program 15 years ago because we want to help students, especially underserved students, prepare for college.”

The program is designed to equip students to have a successful transition into college through graduation and into the workforce with writing, various styles of communication and public speaking opportunities tailored to fit where they are in the ninth-12th grade cycle.

“It’s been really helpful for each grade level; we all get different types of learning,” said Gelena Sandoval, rising high school sophomore and second-year attendee. “As a sophomore, we’re learning the requirements for college applications [and] still learning how to write the essays and write in proper grammar.”

“Writing is essential,” said Dennis Kennedy, founder and chairman of the Texas Diversity Council. “Very often you have to submit samples of your writing as part of the application process, so we’re really helping these students learn the essence of writing and really to learn to love to write.”

“Writing is a part of communication, which is really wonderful, but we teach them how to listen, how to ask questions, the art of public speaking … so that when they do get to college, when they do move into the workforce, they know how to present themselves well,” said co-chair Kimberly King.

The annual Texas Diversity Council Summer Youth Program also aims to remain barrier-free to area youth by including free breakfasts and lunches, free METRO passes, hiring high school teachers to mentor the classes and inviting volunteers to speak about their careers throughout the week.

“I’m really fortunate to have had this opportunity,” said Zoe Scrietti, rising high school junior and third-year attendee. “I’ve learned a lot more about the college application process and financial aid, which I think would have been a very rough journey trying to look at if I didn’t have this opportunity.

“This is an amazing and unique opportunity, and the fact that it even exists is just absolutely phenomenal,” she said.

H-E-B and Murphy Oil sponsored this year’s event.

To learn more about the program, visit riceyouthprogram.org/2024 .