Top 10 UC Personal Insight Questions Examples for 2021

The Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) are a crucial component of the UC application process. They offer applicants an opportunity to showcase their unique qualities, experiences, goals, and achievements to the admissions committee. Here are the top 10 UC Personal Insight Questions Examples for 2021:

1. Tell us about a time when you stepped out of your comfort zone.

This question aims to assess a student’s willingness to take risks and grow. It’s an opportunity for the applicant to showcase their adaptability, leadership, and creativity.

Example:

Last summer, I decided to participate in a community service project in Guatemala. I had never been to a foreign country, let alone worked on a construction site. However, despite my initial discomfort, I was able to learn a new language and skill set while making an impact in the local community. This experience expanded my worldview and helped me grow as a person.

2. What do you consider your best talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?

This question allows an applicant to showcase their successes and passions while providing insight into their work ethic and dedication to their craft.

Example:

My best talent is writing. I discovered my love for storytelling when I was young and actively pursued it throughout high school. I took community college courses on creative writing and participated in writing workshops, which allowed me to improve my writing skills. I’ve also submitted pieces to national writing competitions, and my work has been recognized in several publications.

3. What would you say is your greatest skill or attribute? How have you developed and demonstrated that skill over time?

This question gives applicants the opportunity to showcase interpersonal skills and how they handle various situations. It’s an opportunity to connect with the admissions committee by sharing their personal qualities and experiences.

Example:

I consider my greatest skill to be my ability to work well in a team. Growing up, I played team sports and learned how to communicate effectively and work collaboratively towards a common goal. I also participated in group projects in school and took on leadership roles in extracurricular activities. Through these experiences, I was able to develop my communication and leadership skills, which have allowed me to lead successful projects and develop strong relationships with my teammates.

4. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

This question provides an opportunity for applicants to share their academic achievements and highlight their perseverance in the face of adversity.

Example:

Last year, I faced a significant academic challenge when I was diagnosed with dyslexia. I struggled to keep up with my coursework and felt discouraged about my future prospects. However, with the help of supportive teachers and accommodations, I was able to overcome my obstacles and improve my grades. This experience taught me the importance of seeking help and persevering in the face of adversity.

5. What makes you unique? How will that uniqueness contribute to the UC community?

Through this question, applicants can showcase their individuality and what makes them stand out from other applicants.

Example:

I grew up in a multicultural household, with one parent from Mexico and another from Japan. This upbringing has allowed me to develop a deep appreciation for different cultures and perspectives, which has translated to my love for learning languages. In high school, I studied Spanish, Japanese, and French. I believe my ability to bridge communication gaps and my openness to different viewpoints will contribute positively to the UC community.

6. What have you done to make your school or community a better place?

This question asks applicants to share their community service experiences and how they have impacted their surroundings in a positive way.

Example:

Over the past year, I have volunteered as a mentor for underprivileged middle school students in my community. I created a tutoring program for these students and helped them improve their grades and confidence. Seeing the impact of my work on these students’ lives has been incredibly rewarding, and I hope to continue serving my community in the future.

7. How have you developed and demonstrated leadership skills inside or outside of school?

This question seeks to assess applicants’ leadership abilities and how they have demonstrated them in various contexts.

Example:

I have played leadership roles in various extracurricular activities, including student government, debate team, and volunteering organizations. These roles have taught me how to communicate effectively, delegate tasks, and lead by example. I believe my leadership skills will allow me to make a positive impact on the UC community.

8. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant opportunity or worked to solve an important problem.

This question allows applicants to share their problem-solving abilities and how they have utilized opportunities to overcome difficult situations.

Example:

During the pandemic, I helped organize a virtual fundraiser for a local charity. The event raised over $5,000 and provided essential aid to those affected by COVID-19. This experience taught me the importance of resourcefulness and creativity in times of crisis, and I hope to continue using my problem-solving skills to contribute positively to society.

9. What do you want UC to know about you? Here’s your chance to tell us.

This open-ended question allows applicants to share anything they would like the admissions committee to know about them that hasn’t been highlighted in previous questions.

Example:

I have a deep passion for environmentalism and have been involved in various sustainability initiatives in my community. I hope to study environmental science at UC and make a positive impact on the world through my work.

10. What makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admissions to UC?

This question allows applicants to summarize their strengths and achievements that make them a standout candidate for UC admissions.

Example:

I have demonstrated a strong work ethic, a passion for leadership and community service, and dedication to my academic pursuits. I believe my unique background and experiences, paired with my commitment to growth and learning, make me a strong candidate for admissions at UC.

Conclusion

The UC Personal Insight Questions provide an excellent opportunity for applicants to showcase their unique qualities, experiences, goals, and achievements to the admissions committee. By utilizing appropriate examples, applicants can highlight their strengths and attributes while providing insight into their character and work ethic.