rice university essays 2024

First Year Domestic Applicants

Let’s get started.

We value a diverse community of scholars, and our processes and policies are carefully designed to evaluate each applicant based on individual merits and potential to succeed at Rice.

* Dates are for 2020-2021 application cycle

Application Materials

• December Last applicable SAT
• December Last applicable ACT
• Dec. 2 Complete a Rice Senior Interview (optional)
• Common Application and Rice writing supplement
• $75 nonrefundable application fee (must be paid online)
• Official high school transcript
• School Counselor
• Architecture portfolio (Architecture applicants only)
• Jan. 6 Request an Alumni Interview (optional)
• September Last applicable ACT
• October Last applicable SAT
• Early decision agreement
• Nov. 3 Request an Alumni Interview (optional)
• Nov. 22 Complete a Rice Senior Interview (optional)
• Shepherd School of Music Preliminary Submission
• Dec. 3 Complete a Rice Senior Interview (optional)

Application Policies & Procedures

First-year domestic applicants are those who will complete high school by the end of the current academic year and hold one of the following citizenship or residency statuses:

• U.S. citizenship
• Permanent Residency
• Undocumented who do not hold DACA status but have resided in the U.S. for an extended period of time
• Refugee/Asylee

Students enrolled in concurrent high school and college courses are considered first-year candidates.

Students who have elected to take time off from schooling between graduating from high school and enrolling in college are considered first-year candidates.

Completion of a high school diploma (or an equivalent) prior to enrollment is required for all new incoming students.

Rice requires a $75 nonrefundable application fee. Students requesting an application fee waiver from Rice should respond to the fee waiver prompts provided in the Common Application. Those students participating in the QuestBridge program automatically qualify for application fee waivers from Rice.

The Rice supplement offers you the opportunity to share more about yourself. This is your chance to tell us why you are interested in Rice and what you would like to pursue as a student here. We also want you to elaborate on your experiences and achievements to share what you would bring to our community.

Essay Prompts (2024-2025)

1. Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected. 150 word limit.

2. Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? 150 word limit.

3. Please respond to one of the following prompts to explore how you will contribute to the Rice community:

• The Residential College System is at the heart of Rice student life and is heavily influenced by the particular cultural traditions and unique life experiences each student brings. What life experiences and/or unique perspectives are you looking forward to sharing with fellow Owls in the residential college system? 500 word limit.
• Rice is strengthened by its diverse community of learning and discovery that produces leaders and change agents across the spectrum of human endeavor. What perspectives shaped by your background, experiences, upbringing, and/or racial identity inspire you to join our community of change agents at Rice? 500 word limit.

One of Rice's long-standing traditions is “The Box,” a question on our application where we ask all of our applicants to share an image of something that appeals to them. The Box gives you the opportunity to present us with an image that shares something about yourself, your interests or what is meaningful to you. This image is not used for evaluative purposes in the application, but allows you to put your stamp on the application about who you are aside from what you have achieved. Be sure to choose an image that speaks for itself and does not need an explanation. The Box must be a two-dimensional image that is uploaded in the Common Application or uploaded in the Rice Admission Student Portal.

Applicants interested in Shepherd School of Music must submit additional materials depending on their area of study. All application materials must be completed by December 1. Music applicants are not eligible to apply through QuestBridge or Early Decision. Admitted students must pursue the music program for at least one year before changing schools. For more information, please visit the Shepherd School of Music Admission page.

Applicants interested in the School of Architecture must submit a portfolio of creative work. Portfolios should be uploaded via your Rice Admission Student Portal. Note: Submissions exceeding the specifications listed below will not be accepted.

The portfolio should demonstrate creative potential and is not expected to be architectural in focus nor professional in quality. It may include examples of sketches, paintings, photography, models, etc. Examples of mechanical or computer drafting are strongly discouraged. The School of Architecture does not accept CDs or DVDs.

Portfolio specifications:

• PDF file labeled with applicant name (example: JaneDoe.pdf)
• 15 MB maximum file size
• Page size should be horizontally oriented A4 or Letter (8.5” x 11”); images should be between 150dpi and 300 dpi
• The first page should be a cover/title page with the applicant’s name
• Content can be up to 10 pages (not including the title page); more than one image or work can be included per page
• Captions of images with title, year of execution, media, and size are encouraged. A one to two sentence description is also acceptable.

For more information about the program, please visit their website.

Architecture Essay Prompts

1. Why are you determined to study architecture? Could you please elaborate on your past experiences and how they have motivated you to apply to Rice University and the School of Architecture in particular? 250 words.

2. Please expand on relevant experiences and motivations outside of your academic trajectory that have inspired you to study architecture, focusing on aspects that are not accommodated by other prompts in the application. 250 words.

Applicants interested in the Department of Art under the School of Humanities may submit a portfolio of creative work. If you would like to submit a portfolio, it should be uploaded via your Rice Admission Student Portal. Note: Submissions exceeding the specifications listed below will not be accepted.

The portfolio should demonstrate creative potential and is not expected to be professional in quality. It may include examples of sketches, paintings, photography, models, etc. The Department of Art does not accept CDs or DVDs, but can access URLs to Vimeo or YouTube provided within the portfolio.

• 10 MB maximum file size
• Images should be JPEGs at least 2000 pixels on the longest dimension and between 72 dpi
• Please upload all images/videos to your portfolio
• Content can be up to 10 files; one work per file (details can be included)
• Submissions of durational and/or moving-image work(s), no matter how many, cannot be longer than five (5) minutes total
• Captions of images with title, year of execution, media, and size are required. A one to two sentence description is also recommended.
• Applicants should not provide links to websites of multiple works, as these will not be reviewed.
• PDF documents should not be submitted and will not be reviewed

To upload your portfolio, access your Rice Admission Student Portal, scroll down to the Art Portfolio section and click “Edit Portfolio”.

Early Decision Plan

Early Decision is a binding decision plan designed for students who have selected Rice as their first choice. Students may initiate applications to other colleges under nonbinding plans but must withdraw those applications if admitted to Rice. Students who apply Early Decision I must submit their materials by November 1 and students who apply Early Decision II must submit their materials by January 4. Admission decisions will be released by mid-December for Early Decision I and by mid-February for Early Decision II.

All admission decisions are final. There are three admission outcomes from Early Decision; the admission committee will:

• Defer - Deferred applicants are considered with the Regular Decision pool.
• Deny - Denied applicants will not be considered with Regular Decision pool, but are welcome to re-apply in the following application cycle.

It is important to note that, if admitted under Early Decision, a candidate must withdraw all other college applications, may not submit any additional applications after accepting the offer, and must accept Rice’s offer of admission by submitting an enrollment deposit by January 1 for Early Decision I or by March 1 for Early Decision II.

Those accepted under Early Decision who demonstrate financial aid eligibility and submit all required materials by the deadline will receive a financial aid package at the time of admission.

Regular Decision Plan

Regular Decision is a non-binding decision plan. Students who apply Regular Decision must submit their materials by January 4. Admission decisions will be released by April 1.

All admission decisions are final. There are three admission outcomes from Regular Decision; the admission committee will:

• Waitlist – Applicants who are offered a place on the waitlist may elect to be considered for admission if space in the class becomes available.
• Deny – Denied applicants are welcome to re-apply in the following application cycle.

Regular Decision applicants who are offered admission must submit an enrollment deposit by May 1.

Those accepted under Regular Decision who demonstrate financial aid eligibility and submit all required materials by the deadline will receive a financial aid package at the time of admission.

Rice is one of the original QuestBridge university and college partners (starting in 2004), and we are now one of only 45 university and college partners with a proven commitment to providing access to low-income students. Programs Rice supports include the College Prep Conferences (typically held in May and June) and the National College Match program which runs October through December. The National College Match is open to all U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents OR students, regardless of citizenship, currently attending high school in the United States. Music applicants are not eligible to apply through QuestBridge.

Essay Prompts for students using the QuestBridge application (2024-2025)

3. Please respond to one of the following prompts to explore how you will contribute to the Rice community (optional):

One of Rice's long-standing traditions is “The Box,” a question on our application where we ask all of our applicants, including students using the QuestBridge application, to share an image of something that appeals to them. Read more about The Box under the Rice supplement tab.

For more information about applying to Rice through QuestBridge, please visit QuestBridge’s Rice University page or contact us directly at [email protected].

Official Transcripts

Official high school/secondary school transcripts must include grades from 9th through 11th grade as well as courses being taken in the 12th grade. Early Decision I and Early Decision II applicants are encouraged to submit first marking period grades, when they become available. Regular Decision applicants will be required to submit mid-year grades from 12th grade, when they become available.

Applicants studying in an international exam-based curriculum, must submit:

• All official high school transcripts
• Final exam results (for example IGCE/GCSE, CBSE X/AISSCE X)
• Predicted exam results, if available

Official high school transcripts must be submitted by your high school via the application platform (Common App), through an online ordering system or eTranscript service , or sent via postal mail directly to the Office of Admission. Transcripts will not be accepted by fax or email.

National Student Clearinghouse (SPEEDE Server or ETX)

Scribbles (ScribOrder)

Cambridge Assessment International Education (CIE Direct)

For USPS Courier: Rice University Office of Admission-MS 17 P.O. Box 1892 Houston, TX 77251-1892

For DHL/Fedex EXPRESS Couriers (common for international): Rice University Office of Admission-MS 555 6100 Main St. Houston, TX 77005

Course Requirements

Rice seeks students who demonstrate intellectual vitality through their course selection and their grade performance. Most applicants will challenge themselves by taking advantage of the rigorous coursework available to them. At a minimum, students must complete the following.

• At a minimum, the natural science and engineering divisions require trigonometry or precalculus and both chemistry and physics. Students may substitute a second year of chemistry or biology for physics.
• Students admitted with curriculum deficiencies will be asked to complete the required work by taking high school or college-level courses during the summer before enrollment at Rice.

Testing Policy

Rice recommends first-year and transfer student applicants to undergraduate degree-seeking programs to submit SAT or ACT test scores, if available. Students who are unable to submit test scores or prefer not to submit test scores will be given full consideration in the admission selection process.

Standardized tests have long served to provide an external benchmark of college-readiness that provides meaningful information about a student’s preparedness for the rigors of a Rice education. As is consistent with our holistic review, test scores are one factor of many that are considered in the admission process.

Students wishing to provide additional exams for admission consideration are welcome to submit these to our office. These exams are optional and at the discretion of the students to submit. We want students to have every opportunity to showcase their strengths and academic achievements where possible.

• AP Exams, IB Exams, or AICE Exams: Students may opt to self-report AP, IB or AICE exam scores in the testing section of the Common Application or QuestBridge National College Match Application. These scores show mastery of content knowledge in specific subjects and may be eligible for undergraduate course credit once a student enrolls.
• Predicted IB Diploma and A-Levels: Students enrolled in IB and A-Level curricula whose schools submit predicted scores for admission consideration are expected to complete their exams and submit final results prior to enrolling.

Additional Testing Policy

Students applying to Rice University are recommended but not required to submit SAT or ACT for admission consideration. Students wanting to show their college readiness and academic strengths may choose to submit SAT, ACT, AP, or IB test scores.

• ACT or SAT: Rice does not have a preference for students to submit one test over the other. If an applicant submits both an SAT and an ACT score, the committee will consider the test that best enhances their application.
• Superscore: When reviewing SAT and ACT scores, we use the highest score from each section across all administrations. We encourage students to report all scores knowing that we will recombine the sections to get the best possible set of scores for each candidate.
• Essay sections: The ACT Essay and SAT Essay sections are not required and not considered for admission.
• Self-reported Scores: Students have the option to submit self-reported scores if they are graduating from a high school within the U.S. or submit official scores. Admitted students who used self-reported scores and choose to enroll at Rice will be required to submit official test scores prior to matriculation.
• Official Test Scores: To be considered official, scores must be sent directly from the testing organization. Rice’s College Board code, including TOEFL, is 6609 and our ACT code is 4152.

Please refer to our Class Profile for more information on the academic profile of admitted students.

Candidates must submit letters of recommendation from their counselor and two teachers.

Counselor Letter of Recommendation

The counselor letter of recommendation serves to highlight the accomplishments of a student within the context of their high school. The letter must come from an applicant’s assigned school counselor, college counselor, principal, or headmaster. Applicants will not be disadvantaged if their high school structure and counselor’s caseload does not allow students the opportunity to build a personal relationship with their counselor.

Teacher Letters of Recommendation

The two teacher recommendations serve to highlight the applicant’s academic strengths and contributions in the classroom. Both of these recommendations should be from teachers of core academic subjects, and ideally one recommendation would relate to the applicant's intended area of study. Though not a requirement, we would prefer letters come from teachers who have taught the student for a full course.

Supplemental Letters of Recommendation

The required counselor recommendation and two teacher recommendations provide the Admission Committee with all the information we need to make an informed admission decision. However, if someone has unique and personal knowledge about an applicant's accomplishments or talents, the applicant may have that individual submit a supplemental recommendation. For example, this could include an employer, supervisor, coach, mentor, or another teacher. Supplemental recommendations must include the applicant’s full name, date of birth, or applicant ID and should be submitted through the application platform or to [email protected].

Interviews are a great way to communicate your knowledge about Rice and an excellent opportunity to showcase academic and personal successes while learning more about the campus experience. We recommend an interview for first-year applicants, though they are optional and not guaranteed. In years of high demand for interviews, all requests may not be fulfilled. Our inability to match you with an interviewer will have no impact on your admission decision. Interviews are not offered for transfer applicants.

All interviews for the 2024 - 2025 application cycle will be conducted virtually. A member of the Rice Alumni Volunteers for Admission (RAVA) or current Rice University student will virtually meet with you to learn more about your accomplishments and academic interests and to answer your questions about life at Rice. Due to limited availability, you will need to submit your application for admission before requesting an interview. Beginning in late August, applicants will receive access to their online applicant portal, typically within 48 hours of application submission, where they can request a virtual interview by the deadlines below.

Applicants are assigned to an alumnus or current Rice student interviewer based on availability – we do not accept requests for interviewer types. Both alumnus and current Rice student interviews are considered equally in the evaluation process.

Rice University has concluded our participation in the Rice/Baylor Medical Scholars program.

We remain committed to supporting our current cohorts as they finish their studies at Rice and matriculate into Baylor College of Medicine. However, we will no longer accept new applications to the Rice/Baylor Program.

With Rice’s location situated next to the world-renowned Texas Medical Center, our students benefit from opportunities to work with leading researchers and medical professionals and are exceedingly successful pursuing their aspirations in medicine and healthcare. We will continue to advise students on the many avenues and pathways to becoming healthcare professionals, including the traditional medical school application process.

You will be notified via email how to access your Rice Admission Student Portal which is designed to assist you in tracking our receipt of your application materials and to communicate your final admission decision. The only valid notification of an admission decision is a formal communication from the Rice University Office for Enrollment. We reserve the right to close your application if you are admitted under a binding Early Decision plan at another institution.

Need-Based Financial Aid

We know that one of the biggest factors in determining the right school is affordability. Because we believe talent deserves opportunity, Rice offers need-blind admission to domestic students. This means we do not consider finances when we review the application. Additionally, Rice meets 100 percent of demonstrated need – without loans – through the Rice Investment, one of the most notable financial aid programs in the country. For more information about need-based financial aid and the Rice Investment, please visit our Office of Financial Aid website.

Merit-Based Scholarships

The Office of Admission offers merit-based scholarships to incoming first year students who distinguish themselves academically and personally within our highly competitive group of admitted students. These scholarships are based solely on merit and financial need is not taken into consideration. There is no separate application or interview required; the Admission Committee automatically considers all admitted students, both domestic and international, on the basis of the student’s application for admission. About 20% of admitted students are offered a merit scholarship each year. Students awarded a merit-based scholarship will be notified at the time of admission.

Advanced Placement (AP) Exams

Rice University awards transfer credit for the Advanced Placement (AP) Program, which enables high school students to earn transfer credit for college-level courses taken in high school upon completion of AP examinations with a score of 4 or 5. For more information about the AP transfer credit process, please visit the Advanced Placement (AP) Credit page.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Exams

Rice University awards transfer credit for International Baccalaureate (IB) examinations for students who hold the International Baccalaureate Diploma and have obtained a score of 6 or 7 on higher level exams. For more information about the IB transfer credit process, please visit the International Baccalaureate (IB) Credit page.

International Exams

Students who complete various international exams with a grade of A or B may receive transfer credit. These exams include A-Levels, the Abitur, CAPE, CEGEP (Science Option), French Baccalauréat (Science Option), Italian Maturita, and Swiss Federal Maturity Certificate. For more information about the international exams transfer credit process, please visit the International Exam Credit page.

Transfer/Dual Credit

The Office of the Registrar evaluates courses taken at other regionally accredited colleges or universities (or their foreign equivalent) that are appropriate to the Rice curriculum for potential transfer credit.

Transfer credit will not be awarded for courses included on a student’s high school transcript and used to satisfy high school graduation requirements, i.e. dual credit courses. Only those students who have more than 20 college preparatory courses may have the Office of the Registrar consider for Rice credit their college courses taken in high school. For more information about the transfer credit process, please visit the Transfer Credit page.

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Rice University 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Regular Decision: 

Regular Decision Deadline: Apr 30

Rice University 2024-25 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 2 essays of 150 words; 1 essay of 500 words; 1 image

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Community , Why, Diversity

The Admission Committee is interested in getting to know each student as well as possible through the application process. Please respond to each of the following prompts.

Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected. (150 word limit).

Consider this the prologue to your Why essay (coming up next). To nail this question, set aside an hour or so to get cozy with the Rice website and read up on your academic school and other aspects of student life. Doing all of your research at once will allow you to tell a cohesive story about yourself, while also ensuring that your essays aren’t redundant. Pour all of your academic focus into your answer to this question. What do you love about your chosen major? If you’re interested in the Visual and Dramatic Arts program, can you describe the unique opportunities you’ll find at Rice University? What resources are available to undergrads and how will they guide your craft? If you’re undecided, think about what makes Rice the ideal environment for academic exploration. How do you plan to hone in on the perfect major? The more detail you include, the more admissions will learn about you.

Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? (150 word limit)

Keep the rich details flowing in this classic Why essay. Demonstrating a deep level of knowledge will show admissions that you’re a serious applicant. Even if you hadn’t heard of Rice before your guidance counselor suggested it, take the time to reflect on what makes you excited about the prospect of being a student there. Since you just wrote about why Rice’s majors and/or academics appeal to you for the first prompt, don’t hesitate to address residence life or campus activities in your response to this question. Admissions wants to know that you will not only thrive as a student, but also as a transplant living in their city. Does Rice have a club or volunteer organization that you really want to join? Did you fall in love with Houston when you came to visit last spring and now feel like a Texan at heart? What excites you about the prospect of sporting blue and grey next year?

Please respond to one of the following prompts to explore how you will contribute to the Rice community (in 500 words or fewer):

1. the residential college system is at the heart of rice student life and is heavily influenced by the particular cultural traditions and unique life experiences each student brings. what life experiences and/or unique perspectives are you looking forward to sharing with fellow owls in the residential college system.

This prompt is a spin on the classic Community Essay : what do you bring with you to contribute within the residential college system, specifically? Consider your hobbies, culture, and any other extracurricular activities you do just because you love them. One great way to choose a topic is to ask yourself: if I had a podcast, what would it be about? More than likely, you’ll come up with a topic that not only interests you, but you also want to share with the world. Along with pinpointing what you’re passionate about, try to think of how you can enrich the lives of your peers. Do you teach a craft? Do you strongly believe in paying it forward? What would your friends say is your “superpower”? These are all ways to break into a discussion of what you bring to the table and what you would do to enrich your new community.

2. Rice is strengthened by its diverse community of learning and discovery that produces leaders and change agents across the spectrum of human endeavor. What perspectives shaped by your background, experiences, upbringing, and/or racial identity inspire you to join our community of change agents at Rice?

Odds are that this isn’t the first Diversity Essay prompt you’ve come across this year. If it is, however, please read on. Rice wants to accept students from a range of backgrounds who will contribute to their community, so tell admissions about what makes you you and how you will strive for positive change within the student body. Think about times when people have been intrigued by or curious about your identity, skillset, or background. Maybe you began practicing meditation and Buddhism during your sophomore year and you hope to spread some wisdom and mindfulness on campus next fall. Perhaps your parents emigrated from Ukraine, and you intend to raise awareness or funds for refugees. What do you hope to share with others about your lived experience? How will you incorporate this element of your identity to enrich the world around you? Show admissions that you’re eager to make your mark in their community. Bonus points if you can reference a specific component of the Rice experience (think clubs, classes, residential colleges, volunteer opportunities, etc.) as a natural stepping stone on your personal journey of leadership and progress.

In keeping with Rice’s long-standing tradition (known as “The Box”), please share an image of something that appeals to you. See the Help Section for more information.

The final piece to Rice’s supplement isn’t an essay at all. Rice understands that a picture is worth a thousand words (or so we’ve been told). So instead of having you write a thousand words (which sounds exhausting), Rice University is asking you to upload a picture of something that appeals to you. When brainstorming which image to choose, think about your goals and passions. If you’re hoping to declare an English major, maybe your photo of choice is the Pulitzer Prize. If you are hoping to develop your business management skills at Rice, maybe you want to share the photo your mom took of you devouring pizza at student-run The Hoot this spring. Regardless of which direction you choose to take, what matters most is that your image communicates something hyper-personal, and/or reveals new information about you, your interests or your goals that is not covered anywhere else on your application.

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Our Common App Guide can help you choose a prompt!

"My daughter just received her ED acceptance to Rice. I wanted to personally extend our thanks to you and [her Advisor] for your help with the essays. I honestly feel [my daughter's] application was more compelling with the content of the essays. A few of her friends whose GPA were much higher were denied at Rice. We are very thankful we found the right help she needed."

– CEA Parent, Rice University, Class of 2026

"After all the (nerve-wracking) waiting, I thought you would like to hear back on the outcome of this journey, which you are a critical part of. My daughter brought the goods and you helped her with the final touches tying the bow properly – crucially important. She'll be attending Rice next fall. I'm really thankful to you."

– CEA Parent, Rice University, Class of 2025

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July 30, 2024

Rice University Supplemental Essay Prompts & The Box: 2024-2025

Rice University has released its 2024-2025 supplemental essay prompts for applicants to the Class of 2029. In all, Rice asks applicants to respond to three supplemental essay prompts — two essays of 150 words and one essay of 500 words. For the 500-word essay, there are two options from applicants are asked to choose one. In addition, as is tradition, Rice applicants are asked to include an image that represents them with their Rice supplement. So, what exactly are this year’s essays for the Rice Class of 2029?

2024-2025 Rice Essay Topics & The Box

150 word essay prompts.

Rice applicants are asked to answer the first two essay prompts in a maximum of 150 words. These two prompts are as follows:

1. Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected. 

This prompt is a straight-up-the-middle Why Major essay. As such, students should write an origin story of their interest in their chosen field. The origin story should take place in high school rather than in childhood. Applicants should make the story interesting rather than tout their strengths in the given area since bragging is an implausible way to inspire admissions officers to root for applicants. 

2. Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? 

This prompt is a straight-up-the-middle Why College essay . It should thus be filled with specifics on why a student wishes to attend Rice — programs, institutes, the culture, traditions, activities, and more. Notice we didn’t mention classes or professors. Classes change. Professors leave. It’s about capturing the enduring specifics of Rice.

If an applicant writes a sentence that can apply to schools other than Rice, we recommend deleting it. Every sentence in this essay should be specifically tailored to Rice. That’s the game!

500 Word Essay Prompts

For the third Rice essay, applicants are asked to answer one of the following two essay prompts in up to 500 words:

1. Please respond to one of the following prompts to explore how you will contribute to the Rice community:

• The Residential College System is at the heart of Rice student life and is heavily influenced by the particular cultural traditions and unique life experiences each student brings. What life experiences and/or unique perspectives are you looking forward to sharing with fellow Owls in the residential college system?

Rice’s admissions committee seeks to admit a diverse incoming class and while the United States Supreme Court outlawed the practice of Affirmative Action , Chief Justice John Roberts left an opening in college essays.

As he wrote in his majority opinion, “At the same time, as all parties agree, nothing in this opinion should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicant’s discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise.”

Herein lies that opening. But, of course, students do not need to be underrepresented minorities to answer this question powerfully. The question is purposely broad. As such, students can write about the communities in which they were raised, their cultural traditions, their faith, or any other such topic that ideally showcases how they think and what makes them tick.

• Rice is strengthened by its diverse community of learning and discovery that produces leaders and change agents across the spectrum of human endeavor. What perspectives shaped by your background, experiences, upbringing, and/or racial identity inspire you to join our community of change agents at Rice?

This question is similar to the first option for the third Rice essay prompt, but it leans more heavily on being a change agent. Rice’s admissions committee wants to see how a student’s background or experiences shape who they are and how they hope to create the world they wish to see. Applicants should be specific instead of broad — think saving the bees rather than saving the world from climate change.

The Rice Box

One of Rice’s longstanding traditions is “The Box,“ a question on our application where we ask all of our applicants to share an image of something that appeals to them. The Box gives you the opportunity to present us with an image that shares something about yourself, your interests or what is meaningful to you. This image is not used for evaluative purposes in the application, but allows you to put your stamp on the application about who you are aside from what you have achieved. Be sure to choose an image that speaks for itself and does not need an explanation. The Box must be a two-dimensional image that is uploaded in the Common Application or Apply Coalition with Scoir, or uploaded in the Rice Admission Student Portal.

The image that a student uploads should be consistent with their hook. If they’re astrophysicists, the image should ideally relate to the stars. If they’re Classists, it should relate to the Classics. Too many applicants merely upload a silly image, a wasted opportunity. Beyond the essays, The Box is another opportunity to showcase intellectual curiosity.

Ivy Coach’s Assistance with Rice Essays

If you’re interested in optimizing your case for admission to Rice by submitting essays that inspire admissions officers to root for you, fill out Ivy Coach ’s free consultation form , and we’ll be in touch to outline our college admissions counseling services for seniors.

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Rice University Supplemental Essays 2024-25 – Prompts and Advice

July 30, 2024

Rice University, the STEM powerhouse in Houston, Texas, accepted just under 8% of applicants into their Class of 2028. Given that the applicant pool—including the 92% who are ultimately rejected—are all immensely talented and qualified, any aspiring Rice student needs to find ways to stand out on their application. One such way is through the Rice supplemental essays.

 (Want to learn more about How to Get Into Rice? Visit our blog entitled:  How to Get into Rice University: Admissions Data and Strategies  for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

When evaluating applicants, Rice University places a strong emphasis on the quality of one’s essays. Below are Rice’s four supplemental prompts for the 2024-25 admissions cycle along with our advice for creating a committee-swaying admissions essay.

Rice Supplemental Essays – Prompt #1

1) please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above. (150 word limit)..

Share an authentic story here of why you are interested in your selected discipline (or disciplines). What books have you read on the subject? Which documentaries have you watched? What podcasts have you listened to? What subtopics most intrigue you? Did a teacher excite you about a topic, or was it a parent or outside mentor? Do you know where you want to take this knowledge post-bachelor’s degree? Do you aim to one day go on to pursue a graduate/professional degree or is there an occupation you are shooting for right out of undergrad? Which classes are you excited to take? What do you hope to research as an undergrad? Include as much detail as possible in this very limited 150-word space.

You can structure the narrative of this essay as a succinct but comprehensive soup-to-nuts chronicle of your entire journey toward your discipline of interest (even in limited space) or you could share one or two vignettes that illustrate your burgeoning passion for engineering, history, French, computer science, business, psychology, etc.

Rice Supplemental Essays – Prompt #2

2) based upon your exploration of rice university, what elements of the rice experience appeal to you (150 word limit.).

The admissions committee wants to know why you desire to pursue your studies at Rice. However, with only 150 words to play with, you’ll have to make every sentence count.

In general, make sure to:

• Cite specific academic programs , professors , research opportunities , internship/externship programs , study abroad program s, student-run organizations , etc.
• Explain how you will take advantage of the university’s endless resources both inside and outside of the classroom.

Examples of items that quality “Why Rice?” essays touch upon include:

• Ample opportunities for mentored research with faculty as an undergraduate.
• Rice’s mission/vision.
• Desire to participate in some of the  300 student-led organizations on campus.
• Lastly, one of Rice’s study abroad opportunities that appeals to you.

Rice Supplemental Essays – Prompt #3

Choose 1 of 2 (500 words):

1) Rice is strengthened by its diverse community of learning and discovery that produces leaders and change agents across the spectrum of human endeavor. What perspectives shaped by your background, experiences, upbringing, and/or racial identity inspire you to join our community of change agents at Rice?

Take note of the wide-open nature of this prompt. You are essentially invited to talk about any of the following topics:

• A perspective you hold
• An experience you had
• A community you belong to
• Your cultural background
• Your family background

Although this prompt’s open floor plan may feel daunting, a good tactic is to first consider what has already been communicated within your Common App personal statement, activities list, and other Rice essays. What important aspects of yourself have not been shared (or sufficiently discussed)? Then, which aspect best showcases your potential to be a leader and/or change agent within a particular space?

The admissions officer reading your essay is hoping to connect with you through your written words, so—within your essay’s reflection—be open, humble, thoughtful, inquisitive, emotionally honest, mature, and/or insightful about what you learned and how you grew. No matter what type of story you tell, the goal is to have the reader come away saying, “I can definitely see this applicant as a contributing member of our talented and engaged student community.”

2) The Residential College System is at the heart of Rice student life and is heavily influenced by the particular cultural traditions and unique life experiences each student brings. What life experiences and/or unique perspectives are you looking forward to sharing with fellow Owls in the residential college system?

Your answer here could be about an ethnic, religious, or neighborhood community/identity or a group of individuals who gather for a club, sport, or service project. Perhaps you are the captain of a team, the editor-in-chief of your school paper, or the president of a club—on the other hand, you may simply be a valuable contributing member. Regardless of whether you are a leading man/woman or a still-essential bit player, make sure that you use your writing ability to show the admissions officer what type of community member you are rather than merely telling them. Of course, they are also interested in your “life perspectives,” which are typically more engaging when shown through examples versus delivered through “I” statements.

Rice Supplemental Essays (Continued)

You can also discuss how you have engaged with your high school local/community and what you have learned from interacting with people of a different ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual identity, etc. Draw on past evidence of your commitment to being a positive force in your community and speculate how that is likely to manifest on Rice’s campus. Research and cite Rice student-run organizations, local nonprofit groups, or anything else you are drawn to. The admissions committee wants to understand precisely how you will contribute to their campus community of 8,000+ undergrads. In summary, drawing the link between your past efforts and future aims is critical here.

Rice University Supplement – “The Box”

The rice box: in keeping with rice’s long-standing tradition, please share an image of something that appeals to you..

Take them at their word here that “The Box” is “not used for evaluative purposes.” As such, you shouldn’t spend hours assembling the perfect collage or designing your own symbol from scratch. Think of this as your signature on your Rice application. You can be straightforward, silly, serious, or sincere. Also, heed their advice that the image can be something “aside from what you have achieved.” Therefore, you shouldn’t feel pressured to insert a picture of a robot you built or a trophy you won.

How important are the Rice supplemental essays?

The essays are “very important” to the Rice admissions committee. The following factors are equally important: the rigor of one’s secondary school record. GPA, class rank, recommendations, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, talent/ability, and character/personal qualities. Clearly, Rice University weighs your essays heavily in their evaluation of your candidacy.

Want personalized assistance?

Lastly, if you are interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your Rice supplemental essays, we encourage you to get a quote  today.

Need additional writing assistance? Check out the following blogs:

• Common App Essay Prompts
• 10 Instructive Common App Essay Examples
• College Application Essay Topics to Avoid
• How to Quickly Format Your Common App Essay
• Should I Complete Optional College Essays?
• How to Brainstorm a College Essay
• 25 Inspiring College Essay Topics
• “Why This College?” Essay Examples
• How to Write the Community Essay
• College Essay

Dave Bergman

Dave has over a decade of professional experience that includes work as a teacher, high school administrator, college professor, and independent educational consultant. He is a co-author of the books The Enlightened College Applicant (Rowman & Littlefield, 2016) and Colleges Worth Your Money (Rowman & Littlefield, 2020).

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How to Write the Rice University 2024-2025 Supplemental Essays

Applying to Rice University this year? Then you'll need to put your best foot forward with their new supplemental essays. The admissions team at Rice hopes to get to know each student deeply through these concentrated questions. This year, you'll tackle two main prompts:

Required Prompt 1: Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above. (150 words)

Required Prompt 2: Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? (150 words)

Approaching the First Prompt

When you're asked, "Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above," Rice University is looking for your genuine passion and motivation. Are you inspired by a particular writer, scientist, or engineer? Have personal experiences or challenges prompted you to focus on this field?

Start by brainstorming with Sups AI . This AI platform can help you strategize the best way to convey your interests and experiences cohesively. Moreover, Sups offers one-on-one chats with current students, so you can get an insider’s perspective on how to frame your story effectively.

Approaching the Second Prompt

The second prompt asks, "Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you?" You’ll need to demonstrate that you've done your research and truly understand what makes Rice distinctive.

To craft a strong response, look into various facets of the university—the residential college system, the honor code, unique programs, or student-led initiatives. When Sups AI helped 10k students get into the top 50 schools in the US, a key factor was their ability to articulate precisely why they fit into those specific academic environments. Tap into their resources and current student partnerships to finetune your answer and make it resonate with authenticity.

With both of these prompts, clarity and conciseness are critical due to the word limit of 150 words each. Use each word wisely and focus on delivering a potent narrative that intertwines personal anecdotes with well-researched facts about the university.

Utilizing tools like Sups AI can significantly ease this process. By transforming scattered thoughts into a cohesive, compelling essay, you’re giving Rice University a real window into who you are and why you’re an excellent fit for their community.

By staying focused, doing your research, and leveraging the power of AI-guided platforms like Sups AI, you'll be well-prepared to submit essays that truly stand out. Good luck with your Rice University application!

How to Write the Rice Supplemental Essays 2024–2025

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Rice University , located in Houston, TX, is a highly ranked research institution with a roughly 8% acceptance rate . With Division I athletics , strong academic offerings , and inclusive campus life , Rice attracts many qualified applicants every year. If you’re hoping to score an acceptance letter, you’ll need to nail your Rice supplemental essays first. Let’s dive in.

Rice’s 2024-2025 Prompts

Rice requires applicants to write three supplemental essays and upload one image. The first two Rice supplemental essays have mandatory prompts, but the third essay has two prompts applicants can choose between. The first two essays have a maximum of 150 words, while the third essay has a maximum of 500 words. Without further ado, here are the prompts.

Rice Short Essay Questions

Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected. (150 words or fewer), based upon your exploration of rice university, what elements of the rice experience appeal to you (150 words or fewer), rice long essay questions (choose one).

These essay prompts ask you to explore how you will contribute to the Rice community. You must choose one of them to answer.

The Residential College System is at the heart of Rice student life and is heavily influenced by the particular cultural traditions and unique life experiences each student brings. What life experiences and/or unique perspectives are you looking forward to sharing with fellow Owls in the residential college system? (500 words or fewer)

Rice is strengthened by its diverse community of learning and discovery that produces leaders and change agents across the spectrum of human endeavor. what perspectives shaped by your background, experiences, upbringing, and/or racial identity inspire you to join our community of change agents at rice (500 words or fewer), the rice box, in keeping with rice’s long-standing tradition, please share an image of something that appeals to you..

General Tips

Writing stand-out Rice supplemental essays is certainly easier said than done. Let’s discuss a few things that can help your essay shine.

Add a personal touch.

From the Rice Box to the supplemental essays, your application has plenty of room for personal touches. Adding a few of them will really help you stand out, because no one else will have precisely the same ones as you. In other words, after you’ve done what you can with all of your other application elements, you can differentiate yourself further by bringing up personal details (where relevant), using unique turns-of-phrase (assuming they make sense and are appropriate in context), and so on.

Research Rice comprehensively.

To display your interest in Rice, you’ll need to show that you understand all the elements that make Rice a good fit for you. These are not just the qualities of Rice that are generally commendable, but rather the qualities that speak to your unique interests, background, personality, and goals. For instance, although Rice is known for its strong kinesiology program , if you have zero interest in kinesiology, don’t discuss this program in your application. Instead, discuss the great qualities of the programs that do interest you, even if they aren’t the most famous programs at Rice.

Identify your application gaps.

Your college application may show many sides of who you are, but there’s still parts of you that won’t be communicated to the admissions team. Consider the aspects of your personality, background, worldview, experiences, achievements, and strengths/talents that are important to you but not otherwise communicated in your application. Then, make a point of working those elements in, assuming it doesn’t become awkward, in your Rice supplemental essays.

Rice Required Short Essay Questions

This prompt seeks to understand what drives you in your academic pursuits. You might have some grand origin story underpinning your passion for healthcare, or you might not. Perhaps your interest in computer science is not due to a love of the act of coding or a passion for data science, but instead motivated by an eye toward our increasingly digital future. Whatever subjects intrigue you, and for whatever reasons, it’s important that your essay is authentic and precise.

If you’re having trouble coming up with your “why,” consider coming up with answers to the following questions:

• What makes this subject or these subjects more interesting than other subjects?
• What is the most interesting fact you have learned in this academic area? Do you seek to learn more facts like this one?
• What questions do you have about the world? How will further study help you answer these questions?
• What are your career goals? How do they relate to your intended area(s) of study?
• What current social issues keep you up at night? How does your intended course of study relate to these issues?
• In what ways does this subject or these subjects bring you joy?

After answering these questions, you should hopefully have identified some concrete reasons for selecting your intended academic area(s). If not, consider whether these are truly the area(s) of study that interest you. Are there any areas that interest you more?

Once you’ve identified your reasons, focus on explaining, in your essay, why these reasons are important to you. Be specific and detailed, and you’ll have a compelling essay.

This essay requires you to research the opportunities available to students at Rice University. In other words, this is your “Why Rice?” essay. Before writing this essay, go online and/or speak to a Rice alum (if you can) about the Rice experience. As you learn about Rice, take note of the specific programs, courses, values, professors, and other opportunities at Rice are most aligned with your academic, personal, and career goals.

Then, once you’ve determined what aspects of the Rice experience are most aligned with your goals, describe these goals in your essay and why/how attending Rice will help you achieve them. Feel free to “name-drop” those qualities of Rice that most interest you. By showing your research to the reader, you not only build a strong argument as to why you are a great fit for Rice, but you also demonstrate your interest in Rice through the evidence of your research efforts.

This essay long question gives you the opportunity, more than the first two Rice supplemental essays, to describe your personality and background. College is not about finding “like-minded peers,” but rather about enjoying the diversity of perspective and experience of your peers. As you imagine your future roommates, teammates, classmates, and neighbors, visualize yourself among them. As you brainstorm your response to this essay, consider the following questions:

• What stories about yourself are you telling?
• What cultural traditions are you sharing?
• What perspectives are you hoping to debate?

In your essay, you have as many as 500 words to work with. Thus, you have plenty of room (and the obligation) to get detailed in your response. For instance, you could describe a family tradition that is meaningful to you before diving into how you would recreate it with your future roommates at Rice. Be sure to explain why it is meaningful to you, how you would share it with the Rice community, and what you hope that your peers take away.

If you have room in your essay, feel free to spend some time discussing what you would like to learn from your peers. These may be perspectives you hope to learn about, lessons you hope to learn from your future friends, and so on.

This prompt is a bit more complicated than that of the other Rice supplemental essays, so let’s break down its components:

Rice is strengthened by its diverse community…

This part of the prompt clarifies that Rice values diversity. Consider how you will add to the diversity of Rice’s community, and how you will benefit from the diverse Rice community. Whatever you come up with could be part of your essay response.

… of learning and discovery…

Based on this snippet of the prompt, Rice evidently values “learning and discovery.” In addition, Rice’s admissions team is relating “learning and discovery” to its “diverse community.” Thus, consider the following questions: What do you hope to learn and discover from this diverse community ? Why do you hope to learn these things ? Your answers to these questions should be included in your essay.

… that produces leaders and change agents across the spectrum of human endeavor.

This part of the prompt indicates that Rice hopes its student body will one day serve as “leaders and change agents” in society. In addition, Rice University envisions that its student body consists of future “leaders and change agents.” What makes you a future leader and/or change agent? The answer to this question should provide the basis for your answer to the next part of the prompt.

What perspectives shaped by your background, experiences, upbringing, and/or racial identity…

This part of the prompt narrows down how Rice wants to understand you as a future leader and/or change agent: in the context of your “perspectives shaped by your background, experiences, upbringing, and/or racial identity.” Thus, identify which of your previous experiences, identifiers, and so on have shaped your perspectives. Then, identify which of your perspectives have inspired you to want to become a leader and/or change agent. These pieces of information will form the backbone of your essay and should receive the most attention.

… inspire you to join our community of change agents at Rice?

This last part of the prompt subtly asks you “Why Rice?”, but this time, in the context of your background. In other words, how have your past experiences led you to choose Rice? Narrow down that question into How have these specific aspects in my background led me to choose Rice, a place where I will be able to enact future change or serve as a leader in these specific ways? an d you’ll be well on your way to a successful essay.

Before diving into this prompt, let’s look at the description of “The Box” provided by Rice:

“One of Rice’s long-standing traditions is “The Box,” a question on our application where we ask all of our applicants to share an image of something that appeals to them. The Box gives you the opportunity to present us with an image that shares something about yourself, your interests or what is meaningful to you. This image is not used for evaluative purposes in the application, but allows you to put your stamp on the application about who you are aside from what you have achieved. Be sure to choose an image that speaks for itself and does not need an explanation. The Box must be a two-dimensional image that is uploaded in the Common Application or uploaded in the Rice Admission Student Portal.”

In other words, you should not feel pressured to answer this question any particular way. Think of something that you enjoy looking at or derive meaning from, and share it with Rice. You need not justify this decision, so there is no need to come up with a complex explanation for your choice if you don’t wish to.

That said, there are a few things you shouldn’t do, or at minimum should avoid doing:

• You should not upload an image that you would not want a teacher, parent, or other adult you respect to see.
• You should not upload any image that you do not own or is not publicly available.
• You should avoid uploading images that contain curse words or potentially insulting language.
• You should avoid uploading any crude humor.
• You should avoid uploading images that are sexual in nature or have sexual undertones.
• If you’re unsure if an image is appropriate for this context, perhaps err on the side of caution and choose a different image.

If your chosen image falls in line with each of the bullet points above, then you’re probably good to go. Enjoy this part of your college application process! It should feel lower pressure than almost any other part of applying to college.

If you need help polishing up your Rice supplemental essays, check out our College Essay Review service. You can receive detailed feedback from Ivy League consultants in as little as 24 hours.

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How to Write the Rice Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

October 6, 2023

There are countless reasons why Rice University might capture your attention. Perhaps it's the tight-knit community fostered by the residential college system, where students in the same program come together. Or maybe it's the allure of Houston's weather, the abundance of merit scholarships, or the opportunity to learn from renowned musicians at The Shepherd School of Music. Regardless of your motivations, if you have a driving force behind your Rice application and believe that you're a perfect fit for the school, the Rice supplemental essays 2023-2024 provide the ideal platform to express it.

Rice offers six exceptional colleges, each catering to a different area of interest: engineering, social sciences, natural sciences, music, architecture, and humanities. When reviewing your responses to the supplemental essays, admission officers seek to understand if your strengths, experiences, and aspirations align with the distinctive and competitive programs offered by Rice's colleges. To assist you in crafting compelling answers for the Rice supplemental essays 2023-2024, I have outlined strategies for addressing each prompt, including those specific to admission into particular colleges. Additionally, I provide valuable tips to help your responses shine amidst the competition.

Rice Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

The essay prompts for Rice are divided into 3 parts: questions for all applicants, questions for applicants to the School of Architecture, and questions for applicants to the School of Engineering, School of Humanities, School of Music, School of Natural Sciences, or School of Social Sciences. When you apply to Rice University, you’re required to submit an intended major at one of its colleges. Let’s take a look at each of the prompts and ways you could go about answering them. 

Essays for All Applicants

The Committee of Admission is interested in getting to know each student as well as possible through the application process. Please respond to each of the following prompts. 

Question 1 (Required)

Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected. 150 word limit..

The key to answering this question among the Rice supplemental essays 2023-2024 lies in conducting appropriate research surrounding the major and college you’ve chosen. You can write about specific courses that appeal to you within your major, such as the “From Decolonization to Globalization” course in the Classical and European studies program. Or you can write about unique opportunities at Rice that you can’t find anywhere else, such as the Museums and Cultural Heritage program in the School of Humanities, or the Opera program at the Shepherd School of Music.

While 150 words is very little, make sure to assert your interest in the subject in your essay as well. Mention any anecdote or example that conveys your passion for the field. Elaborate on how your experiences and exploration of the topics within the discipline so far make you a strong candidate for the program. If there have been any ways you’ve actively pursued your interest—such as working at a lab in preparation for a Chemical and Biomedical Engineering major, mention them in a sentence or two. 

Since there’s not much space, you won’t be able to get too much into the details about other areas of academic focus, and that’s okay. Drive home your enthusiasm both for your field, and how Rice can specifically hone your skills and assist your growth as a student.

Question 2 (Required)

Based upon your exploration of rice university, what elements of the rice experience appeal to you 150 word limit..

This is a typical “why this school” essay, but within the strict limit of 150 words. For questions like these, specific examples are key. Since you’ve already expanded on your academic interests and goals in the previous prompt, in this second essay you should focus on finding a balance between academics and more social aspects of your college experience. If you’ve visited Rice, this is a great opportunity to talk about what you experienced—were you excited by the academic atmosphere when attending a class? Did you have a memorable conversation with a current student? 

Mention clubs and student organizations that align with the theme of the rest of your application. You could write about how you want to continue your involvement in event management by partaking in the Rice Program Council. Emphasize the kinds of events you’ve organized so far and what you value about the work to explain how you’d bring your perspective to Rice’s events organization board. Doing so will not only provide context on your interests but also demonstrate to admissions officers that you’ve thought about how you might contribute to the Rice community. 

Rice wants a “diverse, exciting student body, consisting of the best and brightest from across the country and around the globe”—how do you fit this description? It’s important to portray your excitement at the possibility of attending the school for specific reasons. Admissions officers want to accept students who will bring positive energy and a love for Rice, and answering this question with active enthusiasm can go a long way. 

Question 3 (Required)

Please respond to one of the following prompts to explore how you will contribute to the rice community (500 words):.

Option 1: Rice is lauded for creating a collaborative atmosphere that enhances the quality of life for all members of our campus community. The Residential College System and undergraduate life is heavily influenced by the unique life experiences and cultural tradition each student brings. What life perspectives would you contribute to the Rice community? 500 word limit.

Option 2: Rice is strengthened by its diverse community of learning and discovery that produces leaders and change agents across the spectrum of human endeavor. What perspectives shaped by your background, experiences, upbringing, and/or racial identity inspire you to join our community of change agents at Rice?

Pay attention to the words “life perspectives.” A good way to start your brainstorming process would be to think about your background and experiences. Is there a part of your identity that you feel adds a unique element to your story? 

Rice prides itself on its diverse student body , how do you feel you can add to it? The word “diverse,” while a buzzword, can help you try and figure out the focus of your essay. While it may definitely evoke your cultural identity, sexual orientation, or religious views, you can also think out of the box when it comes to diversity. Both cultural differences and life experiences are mentioned in the question. So you could talk about nearly anything, from what the preparation of food from your family’s culture has taught you about community to how your passion for hiking has changed your worldview.

Then we come to the final part of the question: how would the perspective from your experiences contribute to Rice? Similar to the other essays, don’t talk about what you think admissions officers want to hear. What are you genuinely excited about participating in at Rice? What kinds of activities have you led in high school that you believe have prepared you to continue to make an impact while at Rice? 

This essay is almost as long as your personal statement, so you have a lot of room to address all of the parts within the question. Don’t forget to research what Rice values in its students and which parts of campus you might be able to contribute to. If you can specify how you’d be an asset to the school within Rice you’re applying to, that’s even better.

The Rice Box (Required)

In keeping with rice's long-standing tradition (known as "the box"), please share an image of something that appeals to you. see the help section for more information..

“The Box” is a unique Rice supplemental component that asks you for a photo response with no accompanying text explanation. This is Rice’s signature question, notorious for throwing students off. So if you’re confused and flustered over what picture to choose, you’re not the only one. 

You’ve heard the saying “a picture is worth a thousand words”—here’s your chance to test this theory. Upload a photo that holds meaning to you. It can be easy to stress over this—after all, you can only use one picture and you have no way to tell admissions officers what it means. But remember, there is no right or wrong answer and what you choose won’t make or break your entire application. 

Ideas you can draw from to decide on your picture include:

• A photo of a place that is important to you, for example, the house where you grew up or the treehouse where you first discovered your love for art
• A family photo, for example, from a reunion or your grandpa’s 90th birthday
• Portrait of a family member or close friend
• An action shot, maybe your favorite baseball player pitching at the first game you watched live or your a teacher who has had an impact on you in their natural habitat—the classroom
• A picture of an object that holds meaning to you, such as a first edition book or an old family quilt

Since your Rice supplemental essays 2023-2024 are meant to add a layer to the rest of your application, this is another chance to let the school know more about your personality and character. Don’t just post a generic picture such as a stock photo of Niagara Falls downloaded from the Internet. But if it’s a photo of you and your grandmother capturing the joy on her face the first time she saw one of the Seven Natural Wonders, it’s an entirely different story.

Essays for the School of Architecture

Why are you determined to study architecture could you please elaborate on your past experiences and how they have motivated you to apply to rice university and the school of architecture in particular 250 words..

As the question states, you can highlight any aspiration, experience, or relationships that have fueled your passion for the profession. Do you have a particular goal when it comes to architecture, such as designing a space shuttle for NASA or the tallest building in your city? Can you describe experiences, such as time spent designing sets for every school play since sixth grade, which helped you realize your love for architecture? Or were you motivated by watching your parents map out blueprints for your home?

Don’t just state what that origin story was in one or two sentences. 250 words is a solid  amount of space to transport admissions officers into the time of your discovery—to the museum where you first became fascinated by the interior of a space shuttle. You could write about anything here as long as you address where your wish to pursue architecture arose. 

Save a few words at the end to connect your answer specifically to the School of Architecture at Rice. You could mention how your particular aspirations in architecture would benefit from working with one of the firms that partner with Rice’s Preceptorship program. Or, you could write about how the Rice Architecture in Paris program perfectly ties in with your passion for French architecture. 

Admissions officers should be able to take away your motivations behind studying architecture, and ways you would grow from attending the School of Architecture.

Please expand on relevant experiences and motivations outside of your academic trajectory that have inspired you to study architecture, focusing on aspects that are not accommodated by other prompts in the application. 250 words.

Your answer to this prompt might jump out immediately upon reading it, or you might have to sit down and think about activities that call out to you. The Rice supplemental essays 2023-2024 don’t want you to repeat your entire activities list; you need to make a choice. Will you pick an extracurricular because you enjoy it the most, or will you pick an activity that you find especially challenging? You could also write about an activity that brings you both joy and a challenge. As long as it has contributed to your aspirations, you can choose anything. 

It might be hard to find a non-academic activity that has motivated your interest in architecture, but you shouldn’t limit yourself. If it’s something you do for fun that might tangentially have a relation to architecture—such as participating in sandcastle competitions—that’s still outside academics and definitely counts. 

The activity doesn’t have to be over the top or on a grand scale. It could be something relatively quiet, such as reading 18th-century literature, drawing model airplanes, or making animated short films on your computer. As long as it’s authentically you, you can write about any activity that has impacted your goals. Again 250 words is a good amount to break up your essay into talking about the activity itself, then delving into detail on what you enjoy the most or find challenging.

Additional Tips for Writing the Rice Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

Now that you’ve taken a look at the prompts for the Rice supplemental essays , here are a few tips to help your brainstorming process: 

• Don’t repeat the rest of your application: Admissions officers will already have read the rest of your application by the time they get to your supplemental essays. So if they see that you’ve talked about the same topic as your personal statement or have repeated details about extracurricular that are outlined in your activities list, they might think you’re one-dimensional and don’t have much to offer. They should come out of the Rice supplemental essays 2023-2024 having learned something new about you.
• Focus on yourself: All of the Rice supplemental essays specifically ask about you and your experiences. For any of the essays, you might be tempted to write about someone else—a family member who’s a Rice alum or a famous architect who’s inspired you to study architecture. If you mention them, make sure to keep it minimal. At the end of the day, the school wants to know about you. Don’t get carried away and use all your words talking about someone else.
• Show, don’t tell: This is cliché advice when it comes to writing, but it’s crucial to keep in mind, especially with the prompts that Rice has offered. Don’t just tell your reader the name of an activity that you enjoy or simply state what motivated you to study architecture. Upon reading your essay,   the admissions officer should immediately be able to picture you in your room happily drawing away, unable to hear the knock on the door. 

The Rice supplemental essays 2023-2024 present an incredible opportunity to provide the reader with a deeper understanding of who you are, your passions and aspirations, and how a Rice education can pave the way for your success. Craft your responses in a way that showcases the unique aspects of your character and paints you as a truly memorable candidate. Your application will undoubtedly benefit from supplemental essays that leave the admissions officers in awe. So pour your heart into these responses and demonstrate to the school why you are a student they simply cannot afford to overlook.

If you are looking for a college admissions counselor to help maximize your chances of getting into your dream school, we can help! InGenius Prep has helped more than 6,000 students around the world gain admission into the most competitive schools including Harvard, Yale, MIT, Johns Hopkins, Cornell, NYU, and more. Sign up for a free strategy call today and join the 6,000+ students we've helped get accepted into their dream schools. 

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Decoding Rice University's 2023-2024 Supplemental Essays

Welcome to our comprehensive guide for Rice University's supplemental essays. This blog post will provide an insightful approach for each prompt, supporting your journey towards becoming an Owl.

Prompt: "Why are you drawn to the area(s) of study you indicated in our Member Section, earlier in this application? If you are 'undecided' or not sure which Brown concentrations match your interests, consider describing more generally the academic topics or modes of thought that engage you currently. (150 words)"

This prompt focuses on your intellectual interests and how they align with what Rice has to offer. Here's a stellar response:

"As a child, I was enamored with the stars and constellations. I've grown to understand that my early fascination was actually an interest in Physics. I'm particularly drawn to Rice's Physics program because of its research opportunities in Astrophysics and Space Physics. The collaborative culture, coupled with the chance to conduct research at the Baker Institute for Public Policy, could provide an intersection between my interest in Physics and societal impact."

For this prompt, make sure to:

• Highlight your genuine interest: Describe why you are interested in a particular field and how it connects with your personal experiences or aspirations.
• Connect to Rice: Mention specific aspects about Rice's program that attract you. Whether it's a particular course, professor, or research opportunity, your answer should demonstrate that you've done your homework.

Short Answer Prompts:

The short answer questions are an opportunity to show a different side of you. When responding, be genuine and concise. Here are a couple of prompts and examples:

• "The quality of Rice's academic life and the Residential College System is heavily influenced by the unique life experiences and cultural traditions each student brings. What personal perspectives would you contribute to life at Rice? (500 words)"

Example: "Having lived in a multicultural household, I have experienced the confluence of different cultures and ideas firsthand. This has taught me the importance of diversity and open-mindedness. At Rice, I aim to bring this perspective by contributing to a diverse and inclusive campus culture."

• "Rice is lauded for creating a collaborative atmosphere that enhances the quality of life for all members of our campus community. The Residential College System and undergraduate life are heavily influenced by the unique life experiences and cultural traditions each student brings. What life experiences or cultural traditions will you bring to Rice? (500 words)"

Example: "As a member of the Kiwanis Key Club, I've organized numerous community service activities. This experience has ingrained in me a strong sense of community and collaboration, which I intend to bring to Rice. Furthermore, my Indian heritage has imbued me with vibrant cultural traditions, from the Festival of Lights, Diwali, to homemade samosas, which I'd love to share with the Rice community."

Remember to showcase your authentic self in your responses. Each essay and short answer is a new opportunity to demonstrate how your experiences and passions align with what Rice offers.

Wishing you all the best in your application process!

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Rice University Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

Rice supplemental essays 2023-2024.

The Rice University supplemental essays play an integral role in any student’s “how to get into Rice” plan . As one of the top universities in the nation, strong Rice University supplemental essays can help set your application apart. 

This means you should plan to ace the why school essay, the why major essay, and the long essay that Rice requires. So, if you’re looking for helpful tips on the Rice supplemental essays, then you’re in the right place. 

Rice Essay: Quick Facts

• Rice acceptance rate: 9%— U.S. News ranks Rice as a most selective school.
• 2 (~150 word) essays
• 1 full-page (500 word) essay
• Rice application: Students must submit their Rice application through the Common App, Coalition App, or QuestBridge application systems. 
• Rice essay #1 tip: We recommend using the short and long Rice University essay prompts to highlight different aspects of your experiences that you haven’t highlighted elsewhere—Rice Box image included—to help your application stand out.

Please note that essay requirements are subject to change each admissions cycle, and portions of this article may have been written before the final publication of the most recent guidelines. For the most up-to-date information on essay requirements, check the university’s admissions website.

Does Rice University have supplemental essays?

Yes. In addition to the personal statement that you’ll write in the Common App or Coalition App , you’ll also have to answer both short and extended Rice supplemental essays. In total, applicants will write three Rice University supplemental essays. This includes two that are 150 words and a third that is 500 words. The prompts may look familiar—namely, a why school essay and a why major essay. 

Three additional Rice University supplemental essays may sound intimidating. However, we urge you to view them as a chance to share valuable information about yourself with admissions. Beyond any single Rice University essay prompt, you will have multiple chances to shine. 

The Rice supplemental essays are available on the Common App site . You can also visit the Rice University site for a full list of application requirements, including the essay details. You might also complete an optional alumni interview to supplement your Rice supplemental essays and application.

What are the Rice University supplemental essays?

There are three school-specific Rice supplemental essays and an image contribution in the Rice application. The first two Rice supplemental essays each have a 150 word limit. One Rice essay is essentially a why major essay and the other Rice essay is a why school essay. 

The third of the Rice University supplemental essays allows students to choose from two different prompts. However, the prompts are relatively similar with slight nuances in their wording. Essentially, the last of the Rice University supplemental essays asks students to show how they will enrich the Rice community. This essay has a 500 word limit. 

You should use every opportunity in your Rice University supplemental essays to express yourself in a personal, engaging manner. And because each of the Rice University supplemental essays covers a different topic with a different word limit, you’ll use different strategies for each one.

Before starting your Rice University supplemental essays, do your research on Rice University. Check out our how to get into Rice guide in order to write your best Rice University supplemental essays. You may also want to read some successful college essay examples. Check out these why college essay examples for inspiration. 

Now, keep reading to learn how to tackle each of the Rice University essay prompts!

Rice University Supplemental Essay #1: Why Major Essay

The first Rice University essay prompt asks applicants to explore their academic study interests with a why major essay. If you still haven’t chosen a major , don’t worry. You are not bound to the academic area that you reference in this Rice essay. However, successful Rice University supplemental essays will need to specifically address a given field. When considering how to get into Rice, remember that you will select an academic area of interest in the application. So, start thinking about intellectual interests and browsing majors to see what matches up. 

Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected. (150 words)

This Rice essay is short but sweet. At this point, your reader may have already glanced at your previous coursework and activities, as well as your personal statement . So, to add to that, what stories do you have about what you hope to study in college? The strongest Rice University supplemental essays will give readers an authentic window into an applicant’s intellectual life.

Specifically, this Rice University essay prompt lets you offer some background on an activity or experience that showcases your intellectual interests. You may choose to start your first Rice essay with an anecdote that illustrates these interests in action.

Highlight your passions

For this Rice essay, don’t be afraid to geek out about a topic and share how you have explored it in the classroom and beyond. This could be in a school club, a summer program , or a personal passion project . In fact, your description of your interests should take up most of this Rice essay—perhaps 90-120 words.

Additionally, if you don’t quite know what you’d like to study, that’s okay! Remember, the potential field or major discussed in applicants’ Rice University supplemental essays is not binding. So, use your Rice essay to talk about the thing that interests you most. 

Connect your interests to Rice

Most importantly, to wrap up your first Rice essay, connect your interests to something that Rice can do to help you excel. For example, if you have a penchant for the sciences , you might use this Rice University essay prompt to note unique research projects that previous Rice students have done with faculty. Or, if you’re interested in the humanities , you might emphasize Rice’s various unique minors like Museums and Cultural Heritage when responding to this Rice University essay prompt. This part of your Rice essay can just be a few sentences—perhaps 30-60 words. Remember to be specific about why Rice is the school for you.

Rice Essay Reflection Questions:

• Does your draft share a narrative rather than just restating your activities list?
• Do you limit your focus to a single field when responding to the Rice University essay prompt?
• Does your Rice essay connect your interest to opportunities available at Rice?
• Do you use clear and evocative language in the first of the Rice University supplemental essays?

Rice University Supplemental Essay #2: Why School Essay

While the first Rice University essay prompt asked students to write a why major essay, the second asks students “why Rice?” 

The Rice University acceptance rate is competitive at just 9% . Successful applicants will write Rice University supplemental essays that show just why they have to study at Rice. Rice University supplemental essays are your chance to show admissions that you’ve done your research and are set on Rice. 

Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? (150 words)

This Rice University essay prompt is the classic “why school” essay . You may have encountered similar prompts on other applications. While it might be tempting to adapt a “why school” essay from another application, students will want to start from scratch to make sure their Rice University supplemental essays are as specific as possible.

No shortcuts on this Rice University essay prompt; you’ll have to do your homework. Begin by asking, “What about Rice suits you?” If you haven’t already, this Rice essay is a great chance to share if you have reached out to a current student, watched an official YouTube video , or attended an information session. And if you have not yet, it’s not too late! It all starts with a virtual tour . Do the Rice research before writing your Rice University supplemental essays so that you can speak about Rice like a pro. 

Keep it about you

However, remember that this Rice essay is still a chance for the reader to get to know you. Are there other interests that you have not been able to discuss in other parts of your application? As you approach this Rice essay prompt, as well as the other Rice supplemental essays, think about what might be missing from your application. For instance, maybe you already have written some responses to a few of your activities in the other Rice University supplemental essays. Perhaps there is another that you could highlight in this Rice essay.

Take this Rice University essay prompt as a way to share something new about yourself. When all is said and done, the admissions office at any school hopes to admit a class full of talented people with various pursuits and interests. The best Rice supplemental essays will reveal what a given student will bring to their class and community.

Before answering this Rice essay prompt, read some successful why school essays. Here are some examples of well-written essays from applicants to Northwestern and Yale .

• Does your Rice essay draft include specific references to the academic community at Rice University?
• Do you share how Rice’s resources connect to your personal education goals?
• Does your Rice essay focus on just one or two aspects of Rice as they relate to your interests?

Rice Supplemental Essays – Long Answer

The last of the Rice University supplemental essays offers students the choice of two prompts to respond to. However, each prompt asks students to explore the way in which they will contribute to the Rice community. 

The final Rice supplemental essay prompt offers much more room to write than the other Rice University essay prompts, with a 500 word limit. It may feel overwhelming, but there are many ways to meaningfully answer this Rice essay. 

Successful Rice University supplemental essays will use the word count wisely in order to impress admissions and overcome the low Rice University acceptance rate. In fact, the best Rice University supplemental essays will thoughtfully use the word count to show applicants’ unique experiences and qualities. The room this Rice essay allows you is by design. This is your time to shine.

The Residential College System is at the heart of Rice student life and is heavily influenced by the particular cultural traditions and unique life experiences each student brings. What life experiences and/or unique perspectives are you looking forward to sharing with fellow Owls in the residential college system? (500 words)

You might feel that you don’t have any traditions or experiences that you can discuss with the depth that the last of the Rice University essay prompts demands. “Life experiences” and “cultural traditions” are central to this Rice essay. For some, Rice University supplemental essays may reference meaningful touchstones like holidays, food, music, and dance. 

When responding to the last of the Rice University essay prompts, try to engage your reader’s senses. What do the surroundings look, sound, smell, and feel like? Just as you might envision an opening scene of a movie, you should use this Rice essay to make the reader feel like they are right there with you. Successful Rice supplemental essays will use vivid and evocative language to tell an engaging story.

Define “community” and “culture”

That being said, you don’t need to fixate on a single anecdote to make your Rice essay shine. Successful Rice University supplemental essays may also refer to cultural traditions more broadly than any key moment. In considering your cultural background, you might initially think about your family or the fact that you will be a first-generation college student . 

However, you can also use the last of the Rice University essay prompts as an opportunity to draw connections to a wider set of themes. Community and culture manifest in a variety of forms. From school clubs to youth groups, or even online Discord channels, we all engage in communities that inform our identities. All of these communities can give you useful material for your Rice supplemental essays.

Finding your story

If you’re still struggling with how to respond to the last of the Rice University essay prompts, don’t be discouraged. Everyone has a story to share, and the Rice supplemental essays are designed to help you do so. You could start by imagining how your friends would describe you. Or, it could be helpful to think of a simple timeline of your life so far. From birth to now, consider some milestones that have contributed to who you are today. You might also describe a hero or mentor who has changed your direction. There are a myriad of experiences that successful Rice University supplemental essays could touch on when responding to this Rice University essay prompt. 

Bring it back to Rice  

Remember that while the Rice University supplemental essays should center on you and your personal experiences, however, they also need to show what you will bring to campus. When answering the first long Rice University essay prompt, make sure that you clearly state how you will bring your personal experiences, culture, and traditions to the Rice community. Will you get involved in certain clubs? Will you share your family’s holidays with your hall in the dorms? And will you bring these experiences and perspectives to the classroom?

Rice University admissions wants to learn more about how you’ll fit into the Rice community. So, use the long Rice University supplemental essays to do just that.  

Now let’s check out the second of the long Rice University supplemental essays: 

Rice is strengthened by its diverse community of learning and discovery that produces leaders and change agents across the spectrum of human endeavor. What perspectives shaped by your background, experiences, upbringing, and/or racial identity inspire you to join our community of change agents at Rice? 

Remember those helpful tips on how to respond to the first of the Rice University supplemental essays prompt? Well, they can actually apply here, too. 

If responding the this prompt, students should focus on how the aspects mentioned in the prompt will make them incite change. Note how they refer to Rice’s “community of change agents.” Successful Rice University supplemental essays will show how students will contribute to this community. 

How has your background informed your future academic and career goals? What has motivated your path forward to creating change in the world and essentially leaving it a better place than it was before? Students should write on their own experiences, upbringing and (if applicable) racial identity. 

Similar to the first prompt, there are many routes that students could take when writing this essay. So, how can you choose what to write about? These essays need to be passionate and genuine. If you aren’t excited about the topic you’re writing about, then your reader won’t be, either. Remember that these Rice University supplemental essays need to truly add a new dimension to your Rice application. Namely, you want to share more about you and how you will be a perfect fit for the Rice community. 

No matter the prompt, focus on you

This Rice essay gives you up to 500 words, which lets you discuss a lot. However, successful Rice University supplemental essays will not lose sight of the fact that this essay is about applicants as individuals. If you choose to describe how other people have made an impact on your life, remember to bring it back to yourself and your experiences. Above all, your Rice essay should center on how your experiences and traditions have made you the person you are.

As with the other Rice supplemental essays, make sure you remain centered on your own story and clearly communicate this story to your readers. Though it may be tempting to wax philosophical when writing your Rice University supplemental essays, you should focus on writing explicitly about yourself and your experiences. When in doubt, be more direct while trying to engage the reader in your Rice supplemental essays. Metaphors and quotes can help ground your Rice University supplemental essays at times, but be careful not to overuse them.

How do you wrap up the conclusion of such an open, personal essay? While there is no one “correct” way to end the Rice supplemental essays, take a moment to reflect on how these experiences have made an impact on you. How would you be different without them? Where have these milestones taken you to where you have been, where you are now, and perhaps where you hope to be in the future? Successful Rice University supplemental essays will answer these questions and more.

• Do you write between 400 and 500 words in this Rice essay?
• Does your Rice essay center on yourself and your development?
• Is your response to the third of the Rice University essay prompts concrete and specific?
• If applicable, do you use specific examples of how you have shared your perspectives or learned from those of other people?

How to write Rice Supplemental Essays

Writing impactful Rice University supplemental essays that catch the attention of Rice University admissions officers may seem like a daunting task. However, the Rice supplemental essays are extremely important, especially given the low Rice University acceptance rate. 

Luckily, there are certain tips you can follow to ease the writing process when approaching the Rice University supplemental essays. 

5 Tips for Writing Rice Supplemental Essays: 

#1- be specific.

When responding to both the why school essay and the why major essay, you should be specific. One of the worst mistakes students can make in their Rice supplemental essays is being generic in their responses. When writing the Rice supplemental essays, reference specific programs and offerings only available at Rice. Also, when talking about your life experiences, describe why they are meaningful to you. It may be helpful to make a college resume in order to organize all of your important activities and draw on the most important ones when writing your Rice supplemental essays. 

#2- Provide context to the reader

Above all, your reader wants to know what makes you the person you are. The Rice supplemental essays are your chance to show the admissions team that you’re more than a statistic. Tell them who you are, what you value, and why you belong at their school. Strong Rice supplemental essays will leave the admissions committee with a clear, authentic understanding of an applicant’s background and aspirations.

#3- Choose your topics carefully

You want to be authentic and unique in your responses to the Rice University essay prompts. The topic you choose to focus on makes a huge difference as your passion will be evident in the writing. Write on themes that are genuinely exciting and impactful to you. 

#4- Start early

Give yourself plenty of time to thoughtfully and carefully respond to the Rice University essay prompts. Remember that you will be writing essays for the majority of the schools you apply to. Factor that into your college application timeline. You’ll need time to brainstorm, draft, and revise each Rice essay. 

#5- Be creative and grammatically correct

Don’t shy away from getting creative with your writing style and responses to these Rice supplemental essays. That doesn’t mean you should write a poem, but, feel free to use vivid imagery and descriptive language in order to fully immerse your reader in your subject matter. However, your writing also needs to be grammatically impeccable. Have another set of eyes look over your final Rice University supplemental essays to make sure you’ve expressed your point and have no mechanical errors. 

Additionally, if any special circumstances have influenced your academic or personal development, you may want to discuss them in your Rice University supplemental essays. This can help the admissions team gain insight into your perspective.

Additional Rice Requirements – An Image for “The Box”

One of rice’s long-standing traditions is “the box,” a question on our application where we ask all of our applicants to share an image of something that appeals to them. the box gives you the opportunity to present us with an image that shares something about yourself, your interests or what is meaningful to you. this image is not used for evaluative purposes in the application, but allows you to put your stamp on the application about who you are aside from what you have achieved. be sure to choose an image that speaks for itself and does not need an explanation. the box must be a two-dimensional image that is uploaded in the common application or the coalition application, or uploaded in the rice admission student portal..

This Rice university essay prompt is not an essay at all. However, the Rice Box does a lot of the things your Rice essays do—namely, it gives the admissions team a window into who you are and what you care about.

Understandably, this unique prompt throws many students off. Remember that while the Rice Box might let you stand out, it should not detract from the effort you put into the required Rice University supplemental essays.

Don’t sweat your image choice

Notice the part of the prompt that reads, “This image is not used for evaluative purposes…and does not need an explanation.” In short, this image will not make or break your application—instead, it should be a fun addition to your overall profile.

Your submission should be able to speak for itself without a supplemental description. Some ideas for your Rice Box image might include a section of your bookshelf, a place you enjoy, an important memento, a project you enjoyed, or a hobby you mention elsewhere.

Don’t get hung up on the Rice Box! Find an image that speaks to you, and leave it at that. Then, spend the bulk of your time crafting your Rice University supplemental essays.

Rice Box Reflection Questions:

• Is your image clear enough, while staying within the file size limit?
• Is your image tasteful and appropriate for an academic context?
• Does your image reveal something interesting about you?

Does Rice care about essays?

Forbes ranks Rice University as #22 on 2023 Top Colleges list and the U.S. News Best Colleges list ranks it #15. And, the Rice University acceptance rate is quite competitive at 9%. For these reasons, when considering how to get into Rice University, one of the best colleges in Texas , applicants will want to focus on making their application as competitive as possible. The Rice University supplemental essays play a vital role in the admissions process. 

Rice’s application philosophy is holistic and committee-based. That means that your Rice University supplemental essays are extremely important within the context of your Rice application narrative. Rice University admissions will evaluate applicants on more than just hitting certain academic marks. However, given the low Rice University acceptance rate, it’s important to have a good SAT score and above averag e GPA . 

Using the Rice essays to your benefit

The Rice University supplemental essays are applicants’ opportunities to share new information that they weren’t able to display in other parts of their application. In evaluating Rice essays, the admissions team also looks to see whether you’ve done your research on why Rice University is the right school for you. So, the why school essay and why major essay are extremely important in showing off the specifics of what you’ve learned about Rice. The longer Rice essay is also an excellent opportunity to point out parts of campus life and community in which you would thrive thanks to your unique background. 

Rice University admissions needs to see your understanding and enthusiasm for the university within your Rice supplemental essays. The entire Rice application is important in the admissions evaluation process, however, the Rice supplemental essays will allow Rice University admissions to get a truer picture of who you are and why you’d fit in at Rice. 

More admissions requirements for Rice University

Applicants working on their Rice supplemental essays will need to make sure that they meet the Rice requirements and deadlines. In addition to well-written and unique Rice University supplemental essays, applicants should aim to take rigorous academic courses throughout secondary school. GPA is an important factor as a part of the admissions process. 

Rice University is test-optional so students aren’t required to submit their standardized test scores. However, half of admitted students had scores within the range of 1490-1570. If you fall within that range, or above, submitting your scores will likely bolster your Rice application. 

Letters and interviews

Rice requires applicants to submit three letters of recommendation . These letters are extremely important within the Rice admissions evaluation process. You’ll want to ask your counselor and two teachers for their recommendations well in advance so that they have sufficient time to submit them. 

Students are able to complete optional interviews which are either with an alumnus or current Rice University senior. This is a great opportunity for applicants to learn more about the Rice experience. It also lets them share more of who they are both academically and personally. 

Addition materials for special programs

Students applying to the Shepherd School of Music , School of Architecture , or Visual and Dramatic Arts department will be required to submit additional Rice University supplemental materials. You can look at all the Rice requirements here . 

Remember that Rice partners with the QuestBridge application process. So, in addition to the Rice University supplemental essays, students should check out the match requirements when completing the application. 

Applicants should also consider the cost of college and financial aid packages when starting their college search . This should be an integral part of building a college list . So, check out Rice’s financial aid options in order to compare with other colleges as you go through the college application and eventually enrollment process. 

Rice University Supplemental Essays — Final Thoughts

As you craft your Rice essays, remember to be intentional and specific. Also, these tips are just a starting point. Every Rice University essay prompt is different, and you’ll want to examine each of them on their own terms. There are multiple ways to approach your Rice essays; as you draft, you’ll learn what works best for you.

Your Rice supplemental essays give you the creative latitude to make them your own, so use this to your advantage. There are many student success stories that come from writing strong essays that bolster a competitive application. Check out one student’s journey below and remember that you could be one too. Good luck!

Student Spotlight: Line T.

This Rice supplemental essays guide was written by Sarah Kaminski. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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Command Education Guide

How to write the rice university essays, updated for 2024-2025.

Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected. 150 word limit.

Explanation:

With over 50 undergraduate majors, Rice offers myriad opportunities for students to explore their intellectual interests—which unique aspects of your narrative, background, experiences, interests and identity drove you to select yours? Although your transcripts, recommendation letters and activities list provide the admissions committee lots of information about your engagement with your intended area of study, this prompt offers you the rare opportunity to explain it in your own words!

Whether the details are purely academic or a bit more personal, the key is that you’re authentic in your response to this prompt. All in all, your goal is to bring your major selection to life and clarify the aspects of it that most deeply resonate with your experiences and aspirations. Articulate the impact you hope to make by pursuing that course of study at Rice and connect it to your greater ‘why,’ and you’re bound to compose a strong essay.

Growing up, the vibrant artwork and sterile lights of Hughes Spalding Hospital coalesced to form a bittersweet second home for me. For much of her childhood, it was my sister Lacey’s primary home as she fought lupus, an autoimmune disorder that consumed her skin, hair, and joints in flares as unpredictable as they were incurable. I soon learned that the most valuable thing that the doctors, nurses and staff were able to preserve was her smile.

Over the years, the human dimension of medical care has waned in perceived value, but I’ll never forget how brightly I experienced it secondhand through the attentiveness, patience and heart of Dr. Hopkins, Nurse Teresa, and Nurse Ida. I know that Rice’s Medical Humanities major, offering a human-centric and multidimensional pre-health education, will equip me with both the knowledge and conscience I’ll need to also preserve smiles in medicine one day.

Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? 150 word limit.

This short essay is a classic ‘Why this school?’ essay. It should highlight your knowledge of the unique opportunities at Rice and your own special interests and perspectives. This essay is intended to allow you to write about your interests, both intellectual and extracurricular, and how opportunities at Rice will enable you to explore them. A great way to approach this essay is to do some intensive research on Rice’s website in order to find academic programs, research opportunities, extracurricular activities and student groups, and unique aspects of student life that interest you.

To fortify this essay, you’ll want to provide some concrete examples. Focus on linking your past experiences and passions to your plans for making the most of your potential time at Rice. For example, you may want to have a diverse social circle with people of different perspectives and identities, and know that Rice ranks #1 for race and class interactions. Or, there may be an extracurricular or non-academic program that you want to explore. Allow the word “experience” to mean whatever you want it to mean!

Rice’s signature harmonization of research, innovation and service resonates deeply with my goal of changing the world through medicine. Courses like ‘Advocating for Ideas to Change the World’ and ‘Leadership and Civic Professionalism’ at Rice’s Center for Civic Leadership will bolster my worldview, while joining the Biotech Launch Pad could make finding lupus’ cure an exciting reality. Furthermore, the Université PSL Research Summit’s Global Health focus will advance my dream of addressing health disparities in francophone communities, a cause near to my heart given my mother’s Guadeloupean heritage. Studying at the Moody Center for the Arts and the Shepherd School of Music will allow me to advance as a painter and flutist, while joining the Baylor College of Medicine – Patient Discharge Initiative and Rice MusicMDs will connect me with the local Houston community through service. From #OwlsAfterDark game nights to Fondren study sessions, I’m eager to join the owl community.

Please respond to one of the following prompts to explore how you will contribute to the Rice community:

A. The Residential College System is at the heart of Rice student life and is heavily influenced by the particular cultural traditions and unique life experiences each student brings. What life experiences and/or unique perspectives are you looking forward to sharing with fellow Owls in the residential college system?

At 500 words, this essay gives you plenty of room to describe your perspectives! However, you’ll want to avoid listing too many ideas at once. Instead, consider the communities you are a part of now and the experiences you’ve had that are the most meaningful to you. To help narrow it down, research the values that the Rice community espouses and see where your values and interests intersect with theirs. The admissions officers want to get a sense of the kind of student you’ll be at Rice and how you’ll fit into the campus culture.

Be specific! Instead of just answering “what” perspectives you’ll bring, include “where” you want to bring them. Consider how you might bring your different perspectives to your social and academic life as well as to the 350+ clubs and organizations Rice has to offer. How might your community background enhance the Residential College System? Will your teamwork experience from your time on a high school athletic team inspire you to lead a club sport? Whatever your life perspectives, make sure to demonstrate how you will use your unique background to become a valuable member of the Rice community!

Rhinestones, glitter and countless colorful coats of paint glisten in the Caribbean sun. I’m surrounded by hats and headdresses, tassels and feathers, and rhythm that pulses the ground, twirls the dancers, and synchronizes hearts across the vast, rolling crowd to a tune of joy and pride. It’s Carnival, it’s my people, and it’s home.

Those two elated months of our 150-year-old Carnival tradition mean so much more to me than just snare drums and spices—they’re a constant reminder of the various colors, flavors and experiences that dance in my own veins. They’re a testament to the resilience of my people, the transformation of sorrow to song throughout my country’s history that gives me unshakeable reassurance that no goal is too difficult or too far to be achieved.

In addition to the commemoration of triumph and tradition, it’s also a place where I can truly be myself. French, African, Indian and Indigenous cultures merge at the annual festival, forming an inspiring mosaic, a near-simulacrum of the world that reflects exactly what it means to be comfortable in who you are. No matter the complexion, age, background, all are encouraged to join in on the fun–to dine, revel and dance in harmony.

Gadeloupean culture is a tapestry richly woven from the traditions, cuisines and people from diverse backgrounds, and I hope to both find and cultivate a similar atmosphere in the next step of my educational journey. At Rice, it would be a joy to bring the vibrancy of Carnival to my residential hall as I make Colombo with my floormates (hopefully we can find quality banana leaves in Houston!), dance to the Gwoka rhythms of my ancestors, and maybe even share a bit of the Creole my mother would speak to me when I was younger.

Annou ay! The possibilities are endless in a community so diverse yet so united, and I’ve learned through leading my school’s Caribbean Culture Club and volunteering with local communities that respect is the core underpinning of any meaningful intercultural interactions. At Rice, I’m eager to help contribute to these conversations to promote a spirit of understanding, empathy and growth both in my residential hall and throughout the sprawling campus. Culture is undeniably fluid and constantly evolving, so I hope to not only share my own culture with my residential community, but to also contribute to a new, dynamic residential culture that we can all claim and celebrate together.

While it will be tough to trade rhinestones for reading rooms at the start of the year, I know that the confidence my Carnival memories instilled in me will help me to approach the new experience with excitement and curiosity. Life truly offers so much to discover and celebrate, and I look forward to doing so alongside some of the brightest minds in the nation at Rice.

B. Rice is strengthened by its diverse community of learning and discovery that produces leaders and change agents across the spectrum of human endeavor. What perspectives shaped by your background, experiences, upbringing, and/or racial identity inspire you to join our community of change agents at Rice? 500 word limit.

This prompt asks you to reflect on the world you come from and how your background has shaped your worldview. It is important to think about and clearly express what your particular frame of reference is and what you can bring to campus that no one else can, with a particular emphasis on creating positive change. This may be related to a geographic identity, a religious community, a unique intersection of identities that you occupy, a family background, a place of work, a school you attend or have attended, or any other environment that has been meaningful to you. What are the life lessons you’ve gleaned from growing up with your particular identity or background, or in your particular neighborhood or family? Which diverse perspectives have you gained through your experiences, and how have they shaped your values and contributions to community-building?

My relationship with the alphabet has always been complicated. While my classmates moved through texts and envisioned vibrant fairy tales with ease, the only magical transformations I could conceive of were “p” becoming “q” and “r” becoming “w” as I decoded the pages before me. I remember perusing through endless titles in the library with tears in my eyes, feeling frustrated after school while trying to “catch up” to my peers in reading. When my father finally explained to me the results of the evaluations my teacher recommended, I’ll never forget the waves of relief and discomfort that simultaneously washed over me—no, I was not “broken,” but my mind was structurally different. What I could never prepare for, however, was just how fulfilling and transformative that journey of navigating the world with a mind that thought in pictures rather than serifs would be.

Dyslexia is a neurological processing disorder that can impact language, memory, and concentration, and living with it has given me a unique perspective. Rhyming strategies and mnemonic devices gradually became my closest comforters as I learned how to keep word reversals at bay year after year, and ultimately gained confidence not only in my reading skills, but in my voice. Starting my high school’s first Neurodiversity Advocacy Club was the culmination of this newfound leadership, and it helped me to realize not only that no two dyslexics are the same, but that no two minds are the same, whether neurotypical or neurodivergent. Nothing was more fulfilling than providing reading assistance to local schools alongside my club members, particularly when lending a helping hand in a subject that once frightened me.

Nowadays, I no longer wince at the opportunity to be picked for “popcorn reading” in class, and I actually embrace opportunities to journal and write poetry in my free time. Everyone has a challenge, and overcoming my own through practice and resilience has given me empathy for all who face setbacks. Dyslexia has taught me that a struggle, whether obvious or invisible, doesn’t have to define you or limit how you engage with the world and with your community. There’s always a path around or through something—you just have to have the patience and tenacity to find it and follow it.

At Rice, I hope to further explore leadership, transformation, resilience, and what it means to truly lean on and care for community members. I would not have been able to overcome my difficulties with reading and writing without the help of others, from my specialist who introduced me to the Orton-Gillingham reading approach, to the teachers who supported me with modifications I needed, to the friends who gave me comfort when tests or essays proved particularly challenging. Although I initially believed that dyslexia would bring loneliness, it actually highlighted just how vast and connected the community around me is, and I look forward to supporting those with challenges, using my voice to promote positive change, and forging my own unique paths to solutions at Rice.

One of Rice’s long-standing traditions is “The Box,” a question on our application where we ask all of our applicants to share an image of something that appeals to them. The Box gives you the opportunity to present us with an image that shares something about yourself, your interests or what is meaningful to you. This image is not used for evaluative purposes in the application, but allows you to put your stamp on the application about who you are aside from what you have achieved. Be sure to choose an image that speaks for itself and does not need an explanation. The Box must be a two-dimensional image that is uploaded in the Common Application or Apply Coalition with Scoir, or uploaded in the Rice Admission Student Portal.

The Rice Box has lots of lore and legacy surrounding it, but it’s not as mysterious as it might seem. Think about it through the lens of a visual learner—if you had to choose a visual addendum that expresses a large part of who you are, what would you choose? Since you won’t have space for an explanation, make sure that it doesn’t seem random or unintelligible. Select an image that adds context to the information you’ve already shared, not one that needs additional context. Be sure to avoid any overly graphic, offensive or controversial details or imagery.

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Rice University’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Architecture short response 1.

Why are you determined to study architecture? Could you please elaborate on your past experiences and how they have motivated you to apply to Rice University and the School of Architecture in particular?

Architecture Short Response 2

Please expand on relevant experiences and motivations outside of your academic trajectory that have inspired you to study architecture, focusing on aspects that are not accommodated by other prompts in the application.

Select-A-Prompt Short Response

Please respond to one of the following prompts to explore how you will contribute to the Rice community:

The Residential College System is at the heart of Rice student life and is heavily influenced by the particular cultural traditions and unique life experiences each student brings. What life experiences and/or unique perspectives are you looking forward to sharing with fellow Owls in the residential college system?

Rice is strengthened by its diverse community of learning and discovery that produces leaders and change agents across the spectrum of human endeavor. What perspectives shaped by your background, experiences, upbringing, and/or racial identity inspire you to join our community of change agents at Rice?

Why This Major Short Response

Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above.

Why This College Short Response

Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you?

Image Upload

The Rice Box: In keeping with Rice’s long-standing tradition, please share an image of something that appeals to you.

Common App Personal Essay

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

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Rice University Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

By Eric Eng

As prospective students contemplate their academic journey and consider Rice University as their destination for the academic year 2023-2024, it is essential to get into the important details of the application process, specifically the Rice University Supplemental Essays. Located in the vibrant city of Houston, Rice University represents a dynamic academic community where pioneering intellects meet and futures are shaped.

Beyond the campus and cutting-edge amenities lies the essence of Rice—a spirit that captivates an environment where innovative minds prosper. At Rice, students are not merely passive learners; they are challenged, inspired, and, most importantly, encouraged to contribute their unique perspectives to the rich culture of Rice’s academic community.

Now, turning our attention to the focal point of this discourse—the Rice University Supplemental Essays—it is important to understand their significance in the admissions process. 

These essays serve as a personal spotlight, taking grades and test scores to a higher meaning. While academic achievements are undeniably important, the supplemental essays provide a unique opportunity for applicants to show off their individuality. 

They are a platform to showcase personal narratives, aspirations, and express values, thereby offering the admissions team an understanding of the applicant beyond the quantitative metrics. The following sections provide comprehensive guidance on approaching specific prompts within the Rice University Supplemental Essays, ensuring that responses are not only informative but also tailored to underscore the applicant’s alignment with the ethos of Rice University.

How Many Supplemental Essay Prompts Does Rice University Have?

Three supplemental essays and one supplemental image.

Rice requires candidates to craft responses to a trio of supplemental essay questions—two brief essays capped at 150 words each and a more extensive one with a 500-word limit. For the lengthier essay, applicants have the choice between two prompts, selecting the one they prefer to address.

What are the Rice University Supplemental Essay 2023-2024 Prompts?

Rice University gives considerable weight to the essay portion of the application process. Here are the four Rice University supplemental essay questions for the 2023-24 admission period, accompanied by our tips to help you compose an essay that will make a persuasive impression on the admissions panel.

Okay, let’s get to work and really dig into the main point—the essay prompts. Rice’s application is a canvas, and the prompts? They’re your palette of colors. Each question offers a different hue, a chance to add depth and texture to the portrait you’re painting of yourself.

Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above. (150 word limit)

Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? (150 word limit)

1. The Residential College System is at the heart of Rice student life and is heavily influenced by the particular cultural traditions and unique life experiences each student brings. What life experiences and/or unique perspectives are you looking forward to sharing with fellow Owls in the residential college system?

2. Rice is strengthened by its diverse community of learning and discovery that produces leaders and change agents across the spectrum of human endeavor. What perspectives shaped by your background, experiences, upbringing, and/or racial identity inspire you to join our community of change agents at Rice?

The Rice Box: In keeping with Rice’s long-standing tradition, please share an image of something that appeals to you.

How to Write the Rice University Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

Understanding rice university supplemental essay 2023-2024 prompt #1.

“Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above.”

This prompt asks applicants to articulate their motivation and passion for choosing specific academic areas of interest. It seeks to understand why the applicant is drawn to those particular subjects and how they envision their educational journey at Rice University.

The university wants to learn about the applicant’s genuine interest, goals, and connections between their chosen academic areas and future aspirations. This prompt encourages applicants to reflect on their academic choices, providing insights into their intellectual curiosity, career aspirations, and how they believe Rice University’s programs will help them achieve their academic and professional goals.

In response to this prompt, applicants should be concise yet compelling, clearly expressing their enthusiasm and rationale for their chosen academic areas.

Perhaps it was that summer night under the stars when you first pondered the mysteries of the universe, leading you to physics. Or maybe the hours spent helping at your family’s restaurant brewed your passion for business and economics. Share that story.

Crafting Your Response

Crafting a compelling response to the prompt “Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above” involves showcasing a combination of genuine passion, personal experiences, and a clear understanding of how Rice University aligns with the applicant’s goals. Here are some brainstorming ideas and elaborations for a strong response: 1. Personal Passion and Interest: Reflect on what sparked your interest in the chosen academic areas. Share a personal anecdote, a specific class, or an experience that ignited your passion for the subject. Discuss how this interest has evolved and why it is meaningful to you.

2. Alignment with Career Goals: Connect your academic interests to your future career aspirations. Explain how the knowledge and skills gained in these academic areas will contribute to your long-term goals. Discuss any experiences, internships, or projects that have influenced your career choice.

3. Rice University’s Unique Offerings: Research specific programs, professors, or resources at Rice University that attracted you. Highlight unique aspects of Rice’s academic environment. Whether it’s a renowned professor, a cutting-edge research facility, or a distinctive program, explain how these offerings make Rice the ideal place to pursue your academic interests.

4. Contributions to the Rice Community: Consider how your academic pursuits align with Rice’s values and community. Discuss how you plan to contribute to the Rice community through your chosen academic areas. This could involve participating in clubs, doing research, or collaborating with peers with similar interests.

5. Reflecting Rice’s Core Values: Explore how your academic interests align with Rice University’s core values and mission. Discuss specific aspects of Rice’s values that resonate with you and explain how your academic choices reflect a commitment to those values.

6. Interdisciplinary Approach: Discuss how your interests span multiple disciplines if applicable. Explain how a multidisciplinary approach aligns with your academic goals and how Rice’s diverse academic offerings will allow you to explore these intersections.

Remember, while crafting the response, it’s crucial to be concise within the 150-word limit and to convey a genuine, thoughtful, and focused message that sets you apart from other applicants. Tailor your response to showcase your unique experiences and perspectives.

Understanding Rice University Supplemental Essay 2023-2024 Prompt #2

“ Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you?”

This prompt is focused on understanding what specific aspects of Rice University’s academic, extracurricular, and community offerings appeal to the applicant. It invites students to showcase their university knowledge by highlighting features or characteristics that resonate with them. 

The question assesses the alignment between the applicant’s preferences, values, and goals with what Rice University offers. It could include unique programs, faculty, campus culture, research opportunities, or any distinctive features that set Rice apart. 

In response to this prompt, applicants should be specific and demonstrate a well-informed and thoughtful connection to the university’s offerings. It’s an opportunity for the applicant to convey why Rice is an ideal fit for their college experience.

Crafting a response to the prompt “Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you?” requires a combination of thorough research and a personal connection to the university. Here are some brainstorming ideas and elaborations for a strong response:

1. Academic Programs and Faculty: Identify specific academic programs or faculty members that align with your interests. Discuss how the academic offerings at Rice, such as a renowned professor’s research or a unique interdisciplinary program, directly relate to your academic goals and intellectual curiosity.

2. Research Opportunities: Explore research opportunities and facilities that stand out to you. Highlight any specific research centers, labs, or projects at Rice that you find exciting. Explain how these opportunities will enhance your academic experience and contribute to your long-term goals.

3. Campus Culture and Community: Consider the overall atmosphere and community at Rice University. Discuss elements of Rice’s campus culture, such as its emphasis on collaboration, diversity, or a particular tradition, and explain how these aspects align with your values and what you seek in a college experience.

4. Extracurricular Activities: Explore clubs, organizations, or activities that pique your interest. Share your enthusiasm for specific extracurricular activities at Rice. Whether it’s a student organization, a cultural club, or a unique event, explain how you see yourself actively contributing to and benefiting from these opportunities.

6. Community Service and Social Impact: Reflect on Rice’s commitment to community service and social impact. Discuss any community service initiatives or social impact programs at Rice that resonate with your values. Explain how you envision getting involved and positively contributing to the broader community.

7. Global Perspectives: Consider Rice’s emphasis on global perspectives and international opportunities. If applicable, express your interest in Rice’s global studies or international programs. Discuss how these opportunities align with your desire to broaden your worldview and contribute to a global community.

Remember to be specific, genuine, and concise within the 150-word limit. Tailor your response to showcase your unique connection to Rice University and how its distinctive elements align with your academic and personal goals.

Understanding Rice University Supplemental Essay 2023-2024 Prompt #3A

“ The Residential College System is at the heart of Rice student life and is heavily influenced by the particular cultural traditions and unique life experiences each student brings. What life experiences and/or unique perspectives are you looking forward to sharing with fellow Owls in the residential college system?”

This prompt is focused on the Residential College System at Rice University. It aims to understand how an applicant’s life experiences and unique perspectives will contribute to the vibrant and diverse community within the residential colleges. 

The question is designed to assess how well the applicant understands the importance of the residential college system and how they envision actively participating in and enhancing this community. 

It encourages applicants to reflect on their individuality, background, and values, emphasizing the collaborative and communal aspects of student life at Rice. In responding to this prompt, applicants should consider how their presence will enrich the residential college environment and contribute to the overall diversity and inclusivity of the Rice community.

Crafting a response to the prompt about sharing life experiences and unique perspectives in the Residential College System at Rice University involves showcasing a genuine understanding of community, diversity, and the applicant’s potential contributions. Here are some brainstorming ideas and elaborations for a strong response:

1. Cultural Background: Reflect on your cultural background and how it shapes your perspective. Share insights into your cultural heritage, traditions, or unique aspects of your upbringing. Explain how your background will contribute to the cultural richness of the residential college system.

2. Personal Challenges and Growth: Consider the personal challenges you’ve faced and the growth you’ve experienced. Discuss specific challenges you’ve overcome and how these experiences have shaped your character. Emphasize the resilience and adaptability you bring to the community.

3. Passions and Hobbies: Highlight your passions and hobbies that set you apart. Share details about your interests, whether it’s a unique hobby, a talent, or a passion. Discuss how these aspects of your identity contribute to the diverse tapestry of the residential college.

4. Academic and Career Goals: Explore your educational and career aspirations. Discuss your academic interests and career goals, explaining how your unique perspective will contribute to discussions and collaborations within the residential college related to these areas.

5. Community Involvement: Consider any community service or leadership experiences. Share experiences where you’ve been actively involved in community service or leadership roles. Discuss how these experiences have shaped your values and how you plan to bring those values to the residential college community.

6. Openness to Learning: Emphasize your openness to learning from others. Express a willingness to engage with diverse perspectives and learn from fellow residents. Highlight instances where you have been open-minded and collaborative in group settings.

7. Future Contributions: Consider how you envision contributing to the residential college system in the future. Outline specific ways you plan to actively contribute to the community, such as organizing events, participating in clubs, or fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

Remember to tailor your response to reflect your genuine personality and experiences. The goal is to convey a sense of authenticity and demonstrate how you will positively impact and enrich the residential college system at Rice.

Understanding Rice University Supplemental Essay 2023-2024 Prompt #3B

“ Rice is strengthened by its diverse community of learning and discovery that produces leaders and change agents across the spectrum of human endeavor. What perspectives shaped by your background, experiences, upbringing, and/or racial identity inspire you to join our community of change agents at Rice?”

This prompt centers on the importance of diversity, inclusion, and individuals’ unique perspectives to the Rice University community. It seeks to understand how an applicant’s background, experiences, upbringing, and racial identity have shaped their perspectives and aspirations.

The question is designed to gauge how well the applicant understands the value of diversity in a learning environment and how they envision contributing to the community as a change agent.

In responding to this prompt, applicants should reflect on their journey, acknowledge the impact of their background on their worldview, and express a commitment to actively participating in the diverse and dynamic community at Rice University. It’s an opportunity for applicants to showcase their awareness of diversity’s importance and potential contributions to the university’s community of change agents.

Crafting a response to this prompt involves thoughtful reflection on your personal experiences, background, and aspirations, and how they align with Rice University’s commitment to diversity and community engagement. Here are some brainstorming ideas and elaborations for a strong response:

1. Cultural Background and Values: Reflect on your cultural background and the values instilled in you. Share how your cultural background has influenced your values and perspectives. Discuss specific cultural experiences that have shaped your worldview and contributed to your understanding of diversity.

2. Experiences with Diversity: Consider experiences that exposed you to diverse perspectives. Describe experiences where you have interacted with people from diverse backgrounds. Highlight how these interactions have broadened your understanding and appreciation for different cultures, opinions, and ways of life.

3. Upbringing and Personal Growth: Explore aspects of your upbringing that contributed to your personal growth. Discuss how your upbringing has shaped your character and resilience. Highlight specific challenges or moments that have fostered your adaptability and openness to new ideas.

4. Racial Identity and Empathy: Reflect on your racial identity and its impact on your empathy.  Discuss how your racial identity has influenced your perspective and ability to empathize with others. Share instances where you have actively worked to understand and support individuals with different racial backgrounds.

5. Commitment to Community Engagement: Express your commitment to actively participating in the Rice community. Outline specific ways you plan to contribute to the diversity and inclusivity of the Rice community. This could include participating in cultural organizations, engaging in dialogue about social issues, or initiating projects that promote understanding.

6. Aspirations as a Change Agent: Consider your aspirations to effect positive change. Share your goals and aspirations for contributing to positive change within the Rice community and beyond. Discuss how your unique perspectives will make you a valuable addition to Rice’s community of change agents.

7. Alignment with Rice’s Values: Connect your experiences and perspectives with Rice University’s values. Demonstrate your understanding of Rice’s commitment to producing leaders and change agents. Articulate how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to and thrive in Rice’s diverse and dynamic learning environment.

Remember to be genuine and specific in your responses, providing concrete examples and personal anecdotes where relevant. Tailor your answer to showcase your unique perspective and your potential to positively impact and contribute to Rice University’s community of change agents.

Understanding Rice University Supplemental Essay 2023-2024 Prompt #$

“The Rice Box: In keeping with Rice’s long-standing tradition, please share an image of something that appeals to you.”

This prompt, “The Rice Box: In keeping with Rice’s long-standing tradition, please share an image of something that appeals to you,” invites applicants to provide a visual representation of something that resonates with them or holds personal significance. 

The reference to “The Rice Box” suggests a container or space where individuals can share a glimpse into their interests, preferences, or aspects of their identity. It’s an opportunity for applicants to showcase their creativity, individuality, and the unique elements that make them stand out. 

The university is likely interested in understanding the personal and visual aspects of an applicant’s identity, allowing them to express themselves beyond the confines of traditional written responses. Responding to this prompt, applicants can choose an image representing their passions, values, or experiences and briefly explain why it is meaningful.

Responding to a visual prompt like “The Rice Box” allows students to showcase their creativity and share a personal aspect of their identity. Here are some brainstorming ideas and ways students can elaborate on their chosen images:

1. Passions and Hobbies: Include a photo related to a passion or hobby. Explain why this particular activity or interest is significant to you. Discuss how it has shaped your identity and contributed to your personal growth.

2. Cultural Significance: Share a photo representing your cultural background. Describe the cultural significance of the image and how it reflects your identity. Discuss the importance of cultural traditions and values in your life.

3. Personal Achievements: Choose a visual representation of a personal achievement or milestone. Share the story behind the achievement and how it has influenced your goals and aspirations. Discuss the perseverance and dedication it required and how it is a good match with Rice University’s core values.

4. Travel and Exploration: Use a photo from your travels or a place that holds special meaning. Explain why this particular location is significant to you. Discuss the experiences and lessons gained from exploring different cultures or environments.

5. Artistic Expression: Share a piece of artwork, a sketch, or a photograph you’ve created. Discuss the inspiration behind the artwork and what it represents. Explore how your artistic expression contributes to your identity and perspective.

6. Community Involvement: Feature a snapshot from a community service or volunteer activity. Explain your involvement in community service and the impact it has had on both you and the community. Discuss the values of empathy and service in your life.

7. Inspirational Figures: Choose a picture of someone who inspires you. Discuss why this individual is an inspiration to you and how their values or achievements resonate with your own aspirations.

8. Nature and Environment: Share a photo of a natural landscape or environment you find captivating. Explain the significance of this particular natural setting. Discuss how your connection to nature influences your perspectives and well-being.

9. Family and Relationships: Use a family photo or an image representing relationships. Discuss the importance of family or relationships in shaping your identity. Share stories or values passed down through generations.

10. Technology and Innovation: Showcase a technological innovation or gadget that fascinates you. Discuss your interest in technology and innovation and how it aligns with your academic and career goals.

Remember to briefly explain why the chosen image is appealing to you and how it represents an aspect of your identity or interests. The goal is to offer a glimpse into your unique perspective and contribute to the rich tapestry of the Rice University community.

Remember, each essay is a lens through which the admissions committee views you. Be authentic, be reflective, and let your unique voice come through. With only 150 words for the first two prompts, every word must count, so focus on clarity, brevity, and impact. For the image, ensure that it speaks volumes about you in a way that words cannot, and if there’s an accompanying description or caption, use it to succinctly explain the image’s significance.

In crafting your responses to these prompts, think of yourself as a sculptor. Each word carves away the excess, leaving only the most compelling aspects of your persona. Be thoughtful, be bold, and most importantly, be you.

How Important are Supplemental Essays in the College Admissions Process?

Supplemental essays are an important component of the college admissions process. While the weight assigned to supplemental essays can vary from one institution to another, they are often viewed as a valuable tool for admissions officers to gain deeper insights into applicants’ personalities, experiences, and aspirations. Here are several reasons why supplemental essays are considered important:

1. Holistic Application Evaluation

Supplemental essays play a pivotal role in the college admissions process by providing admissions officers with a more comprehensive and holistic view of each applicant. While transcripts and standardized test scores offer quantitative metrics, supplemental essays offer a qualitative dimension, allowing students to showcase their unique personalities, passions, and experiences. This holistic evaluation enables admissions committees to understand applicants beyond their academic achievements, providing a more nuanced perspective on their potential contributions to the university community.

2. Demonstration of Fit and Genuine Interest

Supplemental essays serve as a platform for applicants to demonstrate their understanding of the institution’s values, culture, and mission. Crafting well-researched and thoughtful responses showcases a genuine interest in the school, illustrating that the student has carefully considered how their goals align with what the university offers. Admissions officers are keen on admitting students who are not only academically qualified but also individuals who will actively engage with and contribute to the university community. In this sense, well-crafted supplemental essays can significantly strengthen an applicant’s case by showcasing their fit with the school’s ethos.

3. Differentiation and Personalization:

In a competitive admissions landscape where many applicants boast impressive academic records, standardized test scores, and extracurricular achievements, supplemental essays offer a crucial opportunity for differentiation. They allow students to tell their unique stories, share personal experiences, and articulate their aspirations in a way that sets them apart from their peers. A compelling narrative can leave a lasting impression on admissions officers, helping them remember an applicant among the multitude of applications they review. Through personalization, students can emphasize their individuality and demonstrate how they would bring a distinctive perspective to the university community.

4. Assessment of Writing and Communication Skills

Writing skills are integral to academic success, and well-crafted supplemental essays give admissions officers insights into an applicant’s ability to communicate effectively. Strong writing skills, including clarity, coherence, and an engaging writing style, are valued in academia. The ability to express ideas articulately in writing is an asset in coursework, collaborative projects, and contributions to the university community. Therefore, effective communication through supplemental essays can positively influence an applicant’s chances of admission .

In summary, supplemental essays are of paramount importance in the college admissions process. They offer a unique opportunity for students to present themselves beyond numerical metrics, showcasing their fit with the institution, passion for learning, and ability to contribute meaningfully to the university community. Well-crafted essays can set applicants apart, making a compelling case for their admission to the school of their choice.

How to Effectively Structure Your Rice University Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

Effective structure is paramount in supplemental essays as it serves as the blueprint for presenting a compelling narrative that captures the attention of admissions officers. A well-organized structure enhances the essay’s readability and ensures that the applicant’s unique qualities, experiences, and aspirations are showcased in a coherent and impactful manner.

The structure guides the reader through a logical progression of ideas, allowing them to appreciate the depth of the applicant’s reflections and align with the institution’s values. In the context of Rice University supplemental essays for 2023-2024, a thoughtful structure becomes the vehicle through which an applicant can artfully convey their fit with the university’s ethos.

1. Interactive Story Arc

Embrace an interactive story arc as the foundational structure for your Rice University supplemental essays. Begin with an engaging anecdote or scene that introduces the central theme or metaphor you wish to convey. This creative approach captures the reader’s attention, inviting them into your narrative. As you progress, weave in reflections on your experiences, connecting each section to the overarching theme. For example, if discussing your academic journey, use each paragraph to represent a chapter in your narrative, with each chapter building upon the previous one. This allows for a dynamic and immersive storytelling experience that keeps the reader engaged.

2. Rice’s Core Values as Pillars

Align the structural elements of your essays with Rice University’s core values, using them as pillars that support your narrative. Dedicate specific sections to address how you embody each value, weaving personal anecdotes and reflections into each segment. Whether discussing community, diversity, or intellectual curiosity, strategically place these values throughout your essay, creating thematic cohesion.

For instance, if highlighting your commitment to diversity, structure a section around your unique cultural experiences and perspectives. This approach reinforces your alignment with Rice’s values and provides a clear and organized framework for presenting your personal narrative.

3. Culminating Reflective Closure

Conclude your Rice University supplemental essays with a concluding reflective closure that reinforces the thematic elements and leaves a lasting impression. Tie together the various threads of your narrative, emphasizing how your unique experiences and aspirations align seamlessly with Rice’s values. Consider using a metaphorical or symbolic element that encapsulates your journey and brings the essay full circle.

For instance, when discussing your academic goals, conclude with a metaphor symbolizing growth or a forward-looking vision. This creative and reflective closure provides a sense of resolution, leaving the reader with a vivid and memorable impression of your fit with Rice University in 2023-2024.

How Do Rice University’s Supplemental Essay 2023-2024 Prompts Compare to Those of Other Top Universities?

Rice University’s supplemental essays stand out among other top universities through a distinctive blend of specificity, introspection, and a keen emphasis on alignment with the institution’s values. When compared to other elite institutions like Harvard, Yale, and Stanford , Rice’s prompts often prompt applicants to delve into the unique aspects of the university’s culture, programs, and community.

Unlike more general prompts, Rice’s specific inquiries necessitate a nuanced understanding of what makes the university special, requiring applicants to tailor their responses in a way that aligns intricately with Rice’s mission.

Furthermore, Rice University’s supplemental essays demonstrate a remarkable commitment to fostering self-awareness and depth of reflection in applicants. While institutions like MIT or Caltech may prioritize technical prowess and innovation, Rice’s prompts encourage a more holistic view of the applicant.

This distinct approach is evident in questions that prompt students to share personal anecdotes, delve into challenges faced, and articulate lessons learned. This focus on introspection aligns with Rice’s desire to create a community not solely based on achievements but on its student body’s shared growth and experiences.

In contrast to the more competitive and fast-paced environments emphasized by universities like the University of Chicago or Columbia, Rice’s prompts often draw attention to the applicant’s potential contributions to the campus community. This aligns with the university’s emphasis on a tight-knit and collaborative environment.

While other institutions may prioritize individual achievements, Rice’s supplemental essays signal a desire for applicants who excel individually and enrich their peers’ collective experience. This unique perspective positions Rice University’s application process as one that seeks to build a community where each student actively contributes to the shared tapestry of knowledge and growth.

How Can Applicants Effectively Revise and Proofread Their Essays?

1. understanding the essence of rice university supplemental essays 2023-2024.

To commence the effective revision and proofreading process, applicants must intimately grasp the essence of the Rice University supplemental essays for 2023-2024. This involves thoroughly comprehending the prompts, ensuring that each response precisely addresses the questions posed.

By gaining insight into the distinctive values and expectations of Rice University, applicants can craft their responses in a manner that strategically aligns with the institution’s mission. This intentional tailoring of content not only ensures that the essays directly address the prompts and establishes a more impactful connection with the university’s ethos. It reflects an awareness of what Rice University values in its student body, emphasizing the applicant’s genuine understanding of and alignment with its unique culture and aspirations.

2. Strategic Content Evaluation and Peer Review

After crafting the initial draft, applicants should embark on a holistic content evaluation, ensuring that each response contributes coherently to the overall narrative. This involves aligning personal experiences, aspirations, and academic goals with the specific prompts.

Seeking peer review is invaluable at this stage, as external perspectives can provide insights into the effectiveness of the responses. Peers, teachers, or mentors familiar with Rice University’s values can offer constructive feedback, shedding light on areas requiring clarification or refinement.

3. Language Precision, Grammar, and Clarity

The revision process should prioritize language precision, grammar, and overall clarity in the context of Rice University supplemental essays 2023-2024. Applicants must meticulously review their writing to eliminate grammatical errors, ensuring proper sentence structure, subject-verb agreement, and consistent verb tenses.

Attention to language clarity involves choosing words that precisely convey ideas, avoiding ambiguity. This phase aims to elevate the professionalism of the essays and create a compelling narrative that aligns seamlessly with Rice University’s expectations.

4. Final Proofread, Read Aloud, and Aligning with Rice’s Values

As the final step, applicants should conduct a meticulous proofread to catch any overlooked errors. Reading the essays aloud effectively identifies awkward phrasing, maintains a consistent tone, and ensures a smooth flow. Throughout this process, applicants should continuously align their responses with Rice University’s values.

The essays must answer the prompts and reflect a deep understanding of the institution’s culture and mission. This reflective alignment enhances the overall quality of the essays, presenting applicants as authentic and well-suited candidates for Rice University.

Why Choose Rice University?

Rice University is a dynamic community where tradition and innovation converge, and diversity drives excellence. Renowned for its academic rigor, Rice offers a personalized education with small classes led by distinguished faculty, including Nobel laureates and Pulitzer Prize winners who mentor the leaders of tomorrow. Rice’s pioneering spirit is evident in its cutting-edge research across various fields, from nanotechnology to space science.

The university’s unique residential college system enhances its tight-knit community, with each college boasting its own customs and governance, fostering a sense of belonging and lifelong friendships. Rice’s commitment to diversity is reflected in its international student body from over 100 countries, enriching campus life with a wealth of perspectives and experiences.

Situated in Houston, Rice benefits from its urban setting by providing students with extensive opportunities for internships, cultural engagement, and professional networking, thanks to partnerships with leading institutions like the Texas Medical Center and NASA .

Rice also celebrates a strong athletic tradition, with Division I teams that rally students, alumni, and faculty together in a vibrant display of community and school spirit. The energy at Rice Stadium exemplifies the university’s communal ethos, uniting everyone in support of their teams.

Embarking on Your Journey to Rice University

Alright, it’s almost go-time. Take a deep breath. Can you feel the excitement? That’s the thrill of standing on the threshold of something new. Submitting your application to Rice is more than just sending off a few pieces of paper (or, well, digital documents). It’s you putting your aspirations out into the world.

Imagine clicking that submit button and feeling the weight lift off your shoulders. You’ve done your part and done it well. Now, it’s up to the stars, fate, and th e admissions committee.

So, go ahead and give your essays one last read. Smile at the journey they represent—the late nights, the brainstorming, the rewrites. It’s all part of the story you’re telling, the story of you. And who knows? Maybe the next chapter begins with a welcome letter from Rice.

There you have it, the grand finale to your essay-writing symphony. You’ve poured your heart and soul into those pages. Now, it’s time to send them out into the world. Good luck, and remember, no matter what happens, this is just the beginning of your incredible journey.

AdmissionSight , a college consulting firm, offers personalized assistance to students in their college admissions journey. We help you create a strategic plan for your application process, identify suitable schools aligned with your academic and personal goals, and prioritize your application strategy. 

Our experts review your application, providing constructive feedback to enhance its quality and uniqueness. We also assist in crafting compelling essays that reflect your personality and achievements, guide you through the writing process, and offer feedback on drafts. In addition, we provide interview coaching to boost your confidence and readiness for college interviews, offering tips on professional presentation and answering common questions. 

We aid in optimizing your extracurricular activities to align with your interests and goals, emphasizing leadership and initiative. Overall, AdmissionSight offers valuable guidance and support to increase your chances of college acceptance. With a strong network and a success rate exceeding 75% in the past decade, book a free initial consultation today!

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Rice University Supplemental Essays 2024 | Strategies and Insights for Success

Rice University, a STEM powerhouse nestled in Houston, Texas, boasts an acceptance rate of just under 8% for the Class of 2027. Within this highly competitive applicant pool, comprising overwhelmingly talented individuals, aspiring Rice students must seize every opportunity to distinguish themselves. One such avenue lies in crafting compelling Rice supplemental essays.

When it comes to evaluating applicants, Rice University places significant weight on the quality of essays. Here, we delve into Rice’s four supplemental prompts for the 2023-24 admissions cycle, offering expert advice to help you craft essays that captivate the admissions committee and elevate your application to new heights.

Also read Rice University Precollege Program

Rice University Supplemental Essays

Rice Supplemental Essay #1:

Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above. (150 word limit)

This prompt beckons for an authentic narrative illustrating your profound interest in your chosen discipline. Despite the stringent word limit, aim for a comprehensive portrayal of your journey. You can opt for a succinct overview or spotlight pivotal moments igniting your passion. Dive into specifics:

• Share anecdotes of your engagement with the subject, whether through books, documentaries, or podcasts.
• Reflect on the subtopics within your discipline that intrigue you the most.
• Highlight influential figures—be it a teacher, parent, or mentor—who fueled your enthusiasm.
• Discuss your post-bachelor’s aspirations, whether it’s pursuing further education or entering a specific occupation. In this limited space, each detail matters, painting a vivid picture of your unwavering commitment to your chosen field.

Rice Supplemental Essay #2:

Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? (150 word limit)

Conveying your enthusiasm for Rice within a tight word count demands precision. Dive into Rice-specific attributes that resonate with you deeply:

• Highlight academic programs, professors, and research opportunities tailored to your interests.
• Discuss how Rice’s small class sizes and student-to-faculty ratio foster an enriching learning environment.
• Express interest in engaging with Rice’s vibrant student life through student-led organizations, mentorship opportunities, or study abroad programs. Remember, specificity is key. Whether it’s the intimate class settings or the prospect of mentored research, each element should reflect your genuine excitement for the Rice experience.

Rice Supplemental Essay #3:

The Residential College System is at the heart of Rice student life and is heavily influenced by the particular cultural traditions and unique life experiences each student brings. What life experiences and/or unique perspectives are you looking forward to sharing with fellow Owls in the residential college system?

Crafting a compelling response requires a blend of introspection and forward-thinking. Delve into:

• Your cultural or community affiliations and how they shape your perspective.
• Leadership roles or contributions within your high school or local community.
• Specific initiatives or organizations at Rice that align with your values and interests. Articulate not just what you bring to the table but also how you envision contributing to Rice’s diverse residential community. Showcasing your past involvement and future aspirations demonstrates your readiness to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Rice’s residential life.

In navigating Rice’s supplemental essays, remember that brevity is your ally. Every word should pack a punch, illuminating facets of your personality, aspirations, and genuine connection to Rice University. By thoughtfully addressing each prompt, you can craft essays that resonate deeply with the admissions committee, positioning yourself as a standout candidate amidst the competitive applicant pool.

Also see Rice University Acceptance Rate | Strategies and Insights for Admission Success 2024

The Importance of Rice Supplemental Essays

The Rice supplemental essays hold considerable weight in the eyes of the admissions committee, being classified as “very important” factors in their evaluation process. Alongside them stand pivotal elements such as the rigor of one’s secondary school record, GPA, class rank, recommendations, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, talent/ability, and character/personal qualities.

This underscores the pivotal role these essays play in shaping the overall impression of an applicant’s candidacy. Each essay offers a unique opportunity for candidates to showcase their individuality, aspirations, and alignment with Rice’s values and community.

By meticulously crafting compelling narratives that resonate with the admissions committee, applicants can leave a lasting impression and bolster their chances of securing admission to Rice University. In essence, the supplemental essays serve as a powerful tool for candidates to articulate their readiness to thrive in Rice’s dynamic academic environment and contribute meaningfully to its vibrant community.

Related Rice University Transfer Acceptance Rate 2024 | Strategies and Insights for Success

The Rice supplemental essays represent a crucial aspect of the admissions process, carrying significant weight in the evaluation of candidates’ applications. As one of the “very important” factors considered by the admissions committee, these essays offer applicants a vital opportunity to distinguish themselves, showcasing their unique qualities, aspirations, and suitability for Rice University. By approaching each essay with thoughtfulness, authenticity, and attention to detail, candidates can effectively convey their readiness to excel academically and contribute positively to Rice’s diverse and vibrant community. In essence, the supplemental essays serve as a gateway for applicants to present a holistic picture of themselves, ultimately playing a pivotal role in shaping their journey towards becoming a part of the Rice University family.

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2 Rice University Essay Examples

Rice University is a highly-selective college, so it’s important to write strong essays to help your application stand out. In this post, we’ll share essays real students have submitted to Rice University. (Names and identifying information have been changed, but all other details are preserved).

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 Rice University essay breakdown to get a comprehensive overview of this year’s supplemental prompts.

Prompt: Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

It’s family movie night, and we’ve chosen to watch Bird Brain , a nature documentary about birds and their unique abilities. I’m starting to lose interest, but the narrator says something wild that perplexes me: “Some birds have the ability to hold their breath for over 15 minutes underwater.” Well, now I have to know more. 

My mom groans as I pause the movie to spend the rest of my night understanding that one statement. I rush to my room and open my laptop, while my fingers type furiously as videos, images, and articles flood the screen. I click on the first site I see: “Emperor penguins dive to catch fish in the ocean, and their bodies begin to metabolize anaerobically after a certain point of being submerged.” But that wasn’t enough. I continue to scroll as my mind hunts for answers. How big are emperor penguins? How cold is the ocean in Antarctica? And what even is anaerobic metabolization? Ahhhhh! I feel like I am going to explode! I have to know more. 

This example of the emperor penguin is one of the many instances where I am motivated by the need to question what I hear. I encounter a similar situation on any given day. Whether it’s a quick Google search or an all nighter, I find myself lost in time as the world around me blurs while I unearth its secrets. This love of research stems from my childhood, as I was determined to find my own answers. From conducting at-home plant dissections to confirm what was taught in class, or reading an actual newspaper for the latest reports, nothing was true unless I had found evidence. Soon, this habit became deeply ingrained in my character. 

I call moments like these an “internet search spiral.” Part of the reason why these spirals are so captivating is because they can never be boring; it would take me 23.8 million years to go through the 295 exabytes of information on the web. Call me crazy, but I would do it. The never-ending knowledge found within the internet never fails to hold my attention, as my inquiries are like an emperor penguin plunging into the cold Antarctic waters for a swim. Knowing that there’s something I haven’t learned, a skill I haven’t mastered, or an equation I haven’t solved creates a warp in time that transports me to a region where seconds and minutes don’t restrain my knowledge.

 Internet search spirals capture every part of me but often leave me seeking additional material. The search for more information not available online connects me with like-minded thinkers, and this connection is what I aim to foster as a student at Rice. This quest for knowledge is more meaningful when I encounter someone whose passion for teaching matches my appreciation of learning. I turn to those who feel compelled to share. 

These internet search spirals ultimately transform me into a more mindful person. Every time I understand something new, I feel like a little penguin egg that’s ready to hatch and experience the world in a new way. The feeling of analyzing fresh material is one I will never give up. I don’t feel bound by the restriction of time because somehow my eyes never get tired of scanning endless papers and textbooks. After all, the knowledge I gain is worth it, because every bit of information gives me the chance to be a better individual. The purpose of knowledge is action, and knowledge that is acted on becomes greatness. I aspire to embody that greatness. Whether it’s from a website, a medical textbook, a documentary, or a good-old-fashioned human being, learning frees me from the constraints of time. 

So, thank you, emperor penguins, for sparking internet search spirals that push me to be a better individual.

What the Essay Did Well

This essay does a good job of using an anecdote at the beginning to hook the reader in and then continuing to weave callbacks to the anecdote throughout the essay. Including these callbacks where the student refers to themselves as “an emperor penguin plunging into the cold Antarctic waters” and “a little penguin egg that’s ready to hatch” help make the essay feel more cohesive. The use of the anecdote also allows the student to describe the thoughts that run through their brain while researching penguins, which not only shows how the student thinks, but creates the same feeling of excitement and anticipation the student felt in the moment for the reader. 

Another great thing this essay does is reflect on why this activity is so important to who the student is as a person. Although the prompt doesn’t specifically ask for anything more than why the topic is captivating and what do you turn to for more information, providing a reflection on how researching has positively impacted the student to become a better person proves to the admissions committee that this student knows who they are. The student took a passion they have and used it to show their growth as a person through engaging in this activity and how this activity will allow them to achieve their future goals. The last paragraph ties together the essay and takes it a step beyond what was required to elevate the essay.

What Could Be Improved

One thing this essay could work would be to tell less and show more. It’s cliche essay advice, but for a good reason. A lot of this essay tells the reader about the student’s researching habits without putting the reader in the chair next to the student while they sift through Internet tabs or flip through textbook pages. The anecdote at the beginning shows the excitement and thought process of the student when they are researching penguins which draws the reader in.

After the first paragraph the essay relies mostly on telling the reader what the student does and why they enjoy it, rather than using specific experiences and details to describe what was happening and how they felt. An easy way the student could improve their writing to show more would be to include more of their internal monologue while researching. 

It should also be noted that this was a Common App essay submitted to Rice that specifically mentioned Rice: “This connection is what I am to foster as a student at Rice.” Common App essays don’t need to be school specific, so including school names can actually be highly risky and costly if you make a mistake. This student could have easily submitted their Common App essay to Rice with another school’s name or with a blank they meant to fill in. The best way to avoid this mistake is simply to not included schools in your Common App, or if you really want to, make sure someone else proofreads your essay before you submit! 

Prompt: Rice is lauded for creating a collaborative atmosphere that enhances the quality of life for all members of our campus community. The Residential College System and undergraduate life are heavily influenced by the unique life experiences and cultural traditions each student brings. What life perspectives would you contribute to the Rice community?

One of the many Boarding School rules that I despised at the time but now look back at nostalgically was a 45-minute phone time. So with nothing else to do, our suitemates would gather together after “lights-out” and just talk. Sometimes it would be consoling a friend coming out of a bad break-up, and other times it’d be a serious debate on the merits of Latin honors. Whatever the topic, these conversations were always compassionate, spirited, and a source of familial support. 

This camaraderie also made studying with friends profoundly different. My Indian family was always relentless in reminding me to “Forget joy for four years” because delaying gratification was the only way to find “permanent security.” Apparently, in our divine meritocracy, College is just one step on the continual stairway of advancement. I couldn’t disagree more with this notion that an education is simply a means to an end.

But, as I studied with my best friends in our hostel, learning and fun were never antithetical ideas. Nights reserved for calculus were always accompanied by ping-pong sessions, but we never intended to sabotage each other in a futile race to the top. Ours was a collaborative family, where instead of selfish opportunity costs, we were driven by brotherly love. No accolade could beat this feeling of security and finding a home — away from home.

At Rice, to build that sense of family, I want to create a discussion group—Night Owls—to gather at night and ponder both the grandiose and whimsical philosophical questions over hot chocolate . Think of these events as a modern version of the infamous Greek Symposia, just without the booze. This combination of conversation, whimsy, and intellectual inquiry is what I want from college. It doesn’t sound very prudential, but it’s surely poetic.

The student who wrote this essay did a good job of tying their previous experience to an experience they want to bring to the Rice community. This student pinpointed exactly what they loved so much about living in a community with their peers and how they planned to recreate that experience in college. The descriptions about the types of debates or ping-pong tournaments the student engaged in create an image of an intellectual and supportive environment admissions officers want to see at their college.

Additionally, by coming up with a name and a plan for the discussion group, the student’s interest is evident and it shows that they took time to consider genuinely starting this group at college. In general, the student’s writing created a warm sense of family and bonding that displayed some of the student’s key values. This leaves the reader with a positive impression of the type of person this student is outside of the classroom, which was exactly what the prompt was looking to achieve.

This essay could benefit from a more focused and cohesive story. The way the essay begins describing late night discussions at boarding school, then transitions to a discussion on the student’s family, and then returns back to his school study group is a bit disjointed. The second paragraph adds very little to the essay as a whole and distracts from the sense of community the student was trying to establish in his study group. This student probably felt the need to discuss his family and his Indian heritage to address the “cultural traditions” the prompt mentions, however the experiences studying with his friend are unique and special enough to satisfy the prompt so this was an unnecessary addition. The essay could just describe the late night conversations he had at boarding school and how they created a sense of camaraderie and family among strangers that he wants to bring to college, without needing to bring up his family.

The words this student saves by removing the paragraph on their family could be used to create more concrete examples of the types of discussions the student had at boarding school or what they want to have at Rice. Although the essay mentions discussing bad break-ups or Latin honors, adding more detail like a quote said by one of the student’s friends or an introduced idea that made them reflect on the world would help put the reader in the room with the student or gain a better appreciation for the impact of the discussions. 

Where to Get Your Rice University  Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your Rice University essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

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Rice Supplement Essays!

I’ll probably be applying to Rice University this fall. I’ve been reading the supplement essays and the one related to the community (500 words) has me confused. Could anyone guide me about this? And if possible could I read a few samples of this supplement.

Hoping for a response, love Rice:(

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Aug. 30, 2024

Rice cracks top 10 for first time on forbes’ top colleges list, owls soar 13 spots in just 1 year to achieve no. 9 national ranking.

In a remarkable leap, Rice University soared from No. 22 to No. 9 on Forbes’ 2024-2025 list of America’s Top Colleges . This achievement marks the first time the university has landed in a top 10 spot on the list and underscores Rice’s steadfast commitment to academic excellence, student success, research and innovation, university leaders said.

“We are thrilled to see Rice University recognized among the top 10 colleges in the nation,” said Rice University President Reginald DesRoches. “This ranking is a testament to the hard work of our students, faculty, staff and the incredible support of our alumni and to the enduring strength of our academic and research programs. At Rice, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders and innovators, and this recognition by Forbes reinforces the impact of our mission.” Forbes’ annual ranking is a prestigious measure of academic quality, student satisfaction, graduation rates and postgraduation success. More information on the methodology for the ranking is available here . Rice’s vault to the top 10 reflects its dedication to providing a world-class and affordable education, cultivating groundbreaking research and maintaining a vibrant, inclusive community, DesRoches said. Rice consistently earns high marks for its small student-to-faculty ratio, cutting-edge research opportunities and strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies. The university’s unique residential college system, coupled with a strong sense of community and collaboration, offers students a personalized and supportive educational experience. The university’s rise in the rankings also highlights the growing recognition of Rice’s contributions to innovation , particularly in areas such as engineering, business, the humanities and social sciences. Rice’s strong financial aid program , which guarantees talented students from all backgrounds can afford a Rice education, also played a crucial role in its rise in the rankings. “We are deeply committed to ensuring that Rice remains accessible to all deserving students, regardless of their financial circumstances,” said Howard R. Hughes Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Amy Dittmar. “Our move up the Forbes rankings reflects our success in providing an exceptional and inclusive education that prepares our students to thrive in their careers and communities.” Earlier this year, Rice was one of 10 private universities to be included on Forbes’ exclusive list of “New Ivies” which turn out the smartest and most driven graduates “craved by employers of all types.” As Rice continues to advance in its academic and research missions, it remains dedicated to fostering a diverse and dynamic environment where students and faculty can explore new ideas, challenge the status quo and make a meaningful impact on the world, Dittmar said. Forbes’ annual list of top colleges highlights 500 schools that produce successful, high-earning and influential graduates from all economic backgrounds with less student debt. A full list of ranked schools is here . For more information on attending Rice, visit https://admission.rice.edu .

Aug. 21, 2024

Of&s updates for august 2024.

Dear colleagues,

As we prepare to welcome faculty and students back to campus, I want to take a moment to recognize the outstanding efforts across our division. From sprucing up the campus grounds to updating classroom technology, your efforts are seen, appreciated, and crucial in supporting Rice’s academic and research mission. I am continually impressed by your collective dedication to excellence.

• Campus Services & Sustainability has been preparing student housing, cultivating new dining experiences with expanded menus and dining options, enhancing off-campus shuttle services, and upgrading parking technology. These improvements help create a better experience and a more welcoming environment for all members of our campus community.
• Real Estate & Facilities has been working diligently to enhance and maintain learning and research spaces vital in supporting Rice’s ambitious goals. Their significant efforts restored the campus after Beryl to ensure our students and faculty have an excellent learning and working environment in time for the start of classes.
• Information Technology has ensured classroom technology is ready for our students and faculty, upgrading hardware, software, and applications to support dynamic learning experiences. They continue to bolster our research technology to scale and enhance research capabilities.
• Budget & Finance's ongoing work to refine our budget model introduces new incentives and aligns our financial strategies with the university’s ambitions in research and academics. This includes funding new positions and programs to support our goals.
• Human Resources has been preparing for the student benefit enrollment period. Played a crucial role in supporting the hiring of new faculty and staff to support our world-class programs.
• Campus Safety has been conducting lab inspections and safety training sessions, ensuring a safe environment for all. Building out spaces in the O’Connor Building will support our research and learning initiatives.

The excitement of welcoming faculty and students back to campus is palpable in the energy on campus. I am proud of what we have accomplished and inspired by what we will achieve with the strategic initiatives that will support Rice’s community, its aspirations, and its vision for the future. This year, that will include progress on several ongoing OF&S initiatives and the launch of some new ones:

• The Campus Land Use Plan will unveil the vision for Rice’s campus, created from the collective feedback of university leaders and stakeholders. This plan will reflect the thoughtful adaptation of our physical space to power Rice’s excellence in education, research, and community engagement.
• The Strategic Sourcing Initiative will implement a methodical and systematic approach to procurement, evaluating and continuously improving how we source and purchase supplies, equipment, and services. This leads to improvements in the cost and quality of goods, something that will ensure Rice’s financial resources are used effectively.
• The Sustainability Initiative will complete work on multi-year plans for sustainability strategy, achieving carbon neutrality, and water conservation.
• Development of the Ion District will foster learning, discovery, innovation, and entrepreneurship by offering space, programming, and community.
• We will build upon the progress made with the Total Rewards Initiative in FY24, continuing to enhance our compensation and benefits programs to support the recruitment and retention of talented faculty and staff.
• Investments in research computing and data infrastructure will set the stage for an expansion of the high-performance computing system and allow the university to double its capacity for data storage. These added resources will help meet the growing computational needs across the Rice research community.
• The safety of our campus will be bolstered by transitioning all door access from keys to card readers, offering the ability to update access to rooms and buildings remotely and quickly.
• The setup and delivery of lab spaces will be streamlined, enabling new faculty to begin work on their research sooner.

With lofty goals on the horizon, I want to thank each of you for your commitment, dedication, and contributions preparing for the upcoming academic year. I am excited to see what we will accomplish this year and the impact we will make together.

All my best,

School of Humanities

As researchers and scholars, our faculty is second to none. We are proudest, though, of our students who are learning to probe the big questions and develop the analytical and interpretive skills to address them.

Aug. 23, 2024

Sampling of fall 2024 course offerings, diverse and interconnected: explore new course offerings in the school of humanities.

This fall, the School of Humanities is offering an array of new courses. These innovative and interdisciplinary courses represent just a sampling of the rich perspectives that our faculty and lecturers bring to the classroom. All Rice students, regardless of academic background and career interest, are invited to join us in exploring new topics, epochs and concepts critically and creatively with the goal of a deeper understanding of the human experience.

Environment, Culture and Society

As the world faces dramatic environmental changes, Environment, Culture and Society , a course taught by lecturer Casey Williams as part of our Environmental Studies minor , explores the complex relationship between humans and their environments. This course considers how ethical values, conceptions of beauty and societal injustices are reflected in our changing world.

“Concerned about the environment? Want to learn more about environmental justice? This course is for you,” Williams said. “We ask the big questions about how we make and remake our environments over time and how our environments shape who we are.”

Students will engage with topics including environmental justice, energy ethics, biodiversity and transportation, while participating in activities such as a collaborative world-building game. The course encourages students to reflect on their personal relationship with the environment and consider how they might shape the future.

Unmasking Madness

Unmasking Madness , taught by Modern and Classical Literatures and Cultures assistant professor Linsey Sainte-Claire , challenges students to explore the intersection of literature and medicine in defining madness. The course examines whether madness is purely a mental illness or a socially constructed phenomenon, using works by French and Francophone authors from the 19th to 21st centuries, and is influenced by the multidisciplinary field of medical humanities, offering alternative insights into human conditions.

“Students interested in French and Francophone cultures, literature and the medical humanities should consider this course,” Sainte-Claire said. “They will learn about the multifaceted meanings of ‘madness’ in a safe and inclusive environment, where making a mistake is approached as a learning moment.”

Through an interdisciplinary approach, students will delve into concepts like unreason, passion and alienation, while also improving their French written and oral skills.

Literatures of Return Migration

Literatures of Return Migration , taught by assistant professor of English Ragini Tharoor Srinivasan , offers a contemporary exploration of return migration, a theme deeply rooted in the literature of diaspora. The course examines various forms of return across a global landscape, from economically motivated reverse migration to ancestral pilgrimage and deportation.

Students will journey through narratives of return across literary genres and visual media, touching on cities such as Dublin and Haifa and countries including Ghana, India and Syria. The course also explores themes like the “return to normal” during the COVID-19 pandemic and reparations for slavery and colonialism.

“Rice students should take this course to train their critical minds, hearts and imaginations on an experience that is both universal and radically particular in every case: return,” Srinivasan said. “The study of return will alert us to radical asymmetries and inequities in the histories, contexts and possibilities for migration around the world.”

German Fairy Tale: Old and New

The German Fairy Tale: Old and New , a course taught by Modern and Classical Literatures and Cultures lecturer Mary Grayson Brook , offers a deep dive into the stories of the Brothers Grimm and their place in German literary history. This course invites students to revisit familiar tales with a fresh perspective, exploring 200 years of fairy tales.

“I can think of many different kinds of Rice students who would enjoy this course,” Brook said. “If you love pop cultural adaptations of fairy tales, are curious about German culture or simply need a humanities course with engaging readings, this course will keep you interested.”

Students will analyze popular fairy tales, engage in research and even create their own fairy tales, culminating in a symposium where students present their original work.

Early Medieval Art

In a world fascinated by medieval-inspired fantasy from “Game of Thrones” to “Lord of the Rings,” Early Medieval Art delves into the art and visual culture of the medieval period. This course, taught by assistant professor of Art History Denva Gallant , spans from the rise of Christian art in the third century to the establishment of medieval artistic traditions in the 10th century, exploring Western Europe, the Byzantine world, the early Islamic empires and even the silk empire.

Students will engage with various forms of artistic expression, including architecture, monumental painting and sculpture, book illumination and precious metalwork. The course aims to equip students with the language and skills to discuss early medieval art intelligently and compellingly.

“Taking this class opens you to the spectacular, often misunderstood world of the Middle Ages,” Gallant said. “You’ll learn that the Middle Ages was not just a period of ugly babies and weird cats but an era that had an important impact on how we experience and understand today’s world.”

Antisemitism and Islamophobia

In a world fraught with competing narratives, Antisemitism and Islamophobia seeks to untangle the complex roots of these forms of discrimination. Taught by Mendel Kranz , the Samuel W. and Goldye Marian Spain Postdoctoral Fellow in Jewish Studies, the course spans medieval Spain to contemporary debates using literature, film, philosophy and political theory to explore the interconnectedness of antisemitism and Islamophobia.

“This class may make for some fierce debate — and that’s a good thing,” Kranz said. “If you’re interested in understanding more about our current world and how it came to be, this class will build a strong foundation for engaging in historically informed critical dialogue on today’s pressing social issues.”

Advanced Topics in Ethics

Advanced Topics in Ethics , a course taught by assistant professor of Philosophy Amy Berg , invites students to explore philosophical theories of well-being and their relevance to living a good life. The course delves into questions about measuring well-being, its role in theories of distributive justice and the impact of oppression on experiences of well-being.

“Students should consider taking this course if they’ve ever had questions about how to live well,” Berg said. “It’s an advanced class, perfect for those with experience in philosophy who want to improve their research skills.”  

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The rice macc class of 2026 application is now open.

by The Master of Accounting Program Staff

Applications are now being accepted for the one-year Rice Master of Accounting (MAcc) cohort that will begin in August 2025 and finish in May 2026.

We gathered some key information about submitting an application for the Rice MAcc program below.

What Do I Need to Apply?

Our Rice MAcc application is hosted entirely online, so you will submit all materials through our Rice Business application portal .

To complete your application, you submit the following materials:

• Statement of purpose essay
• Unofficial academic transcripts
• The names and contact information of two academic or professional references
• Optional : Scholarship essay to be considered for any scholarship opportunities available

You can find more information on our required MAcc materials and admissions process on our MAcc Admissions page.

Standardized Test Score Policy

You aren’t required to provide a GMAT or GRE test score for your Rice MAcc application. However, you are still welcome to provide one if you believe it will help demonstrate your aptitude to the Rice MAcc Admissions Committee.

Rice MAcc Program Scholarships

Yes, merit-based scholarships are available and awarded on a competitive basis. Awards range from $5,000 to full tuition. To be considered for a scholarship, you will need to write an additional essay in your application. While the Rice MAcc application does not require a GMAT or GRE test score, submitting a strong test score may increase your chances for a merit-based scholarship.

Application Deadlines

We encourage you to begin your application early. There are three rounds of applications for the Rice MAcc cohort that will begin in August 2025. Once you've provided all of your application materials and submitted your application, you can expect to receive your decision within 6 weeks.

Have questions about the MAcc application process? Email us at [email protected] .

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We know applying to graduate school can feel intimidating, so we've put together this list to help you navigate the application process.

Meet our MAcc Director

Master of Accounting Director and Professor, Ben Lansford, discusses what makes the Rice Business MAcc stand out against the rest.

All Rice students, faculty & staff have free access to over 80+ of Rice's online courses on Coursera. |  Join Coursera for Rice now

Aug. 27, 2024

12 years of extending rice's global reach and reputation through coursera, the rice and coursera partnership continues to reach global learners at scale, improve access to rice’s world-class academics, and serve the rice community..

This year, Rice celebrates 12 years of expanding Rice University’s global reach and reputation through Coursera.

As of June 2024, Coursera has an estimated 148 million global learners (source: Presenting the 2024 Coursera Global Skills Report ), allowing Rice University and other universities to tap into a vast community of people who value learning and are seeking to build practical workforce skills.

Here's a quick look at how the Rice + Coursera partnership has enabled Rice University to provide access to millions of learners eager to experience a Rice-quality education from wherever they are in the world.

We Expanded Access to a Rice-Quality Education: 4.2 Million Global Enrollments

Through nearly 100 online courses, Rice University has garnered almost 4.2 million enrollments from 2.7 million learners across the globe since the partnership’s launch.

Beyond the U.S., Rice’s top countries by learner reach included India, Canada, the UK, and China. In comparison with Coursera’s benchmark, we see Rice has an opportunity to attract more learners in the Americas, including Mexico, Brazil, and Colombia.

Rice attracts Coursera learners with bachelor’s and master’s degrees

In contrast with the broader Coursera learner base, Rice’s unique learner base on Coursera skews toward full-time working professionals who already have bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

This reinforces that Coursera is a strategic resource Rice can continue to use to reach a professional development audience interested in career advancement, career switching, or learning practical new workforce skills (e.g., upskilling and reskilling), an economic imperative as technology rapidly evolves and expands.

A Diverse Portfolio of Rice Faculty-Designed Courses

Rice University’s online courses on Coursera showcase our faculty's expertise and excellence across several in-demand disciplines.

Here are some examples of Rice’s most highly-rated courses, as defined by an “above average” 4.8+ / 5 avg. star rating :

• Principles of Economics: Intro by James DeNicco , 4.92 out of avg. 5-star rating.
• Medical Terminology I by Laura Kabiri : 4.87 out of avg. 5-star rating.
• Mindfulness and Well-being: Foundations by Elizabeth Slator , 4.81 out of avg. 5-star rating.
• Linear Regression for Business Statistics by Sharad Borle , 4.81 out of avg. 5-star rating.
• An Introduction to Interactive Programming in Python (Part I) by Scott Rixner , John Greiner , Joe Warren and Stephen Wong : 4.8 out of avg. 5-star rating.
• Introduction to Biology: Ecology by Scott Solomon , 4.8 out of avg. 5-star rating.

These courses reflect the high quality of Rice's online academic offerings and the university's dedication to academic excellence for all audiences and modalities.

Rice Owls Are Committed to Personal and Career Development: 10K+ Enrollments, Over 59K Hours of Learning in Coursera for Rice

Coursera for Rice provides Rice faculty, staff, and students with free premium access to 86+ Rice courses and specializations on Coursera.

Join Coursera for Rice to explore your interests and upskill in high-demand areas.

This year, the Coursera for Rice program exceeded 10,000 all-time enrollments, with nearly ⅔ of those total enrollments coming from new learners and ⅓ of enrollments from returning (existing) learners.

Since its launch, the Rice community has dedicated over 59,000 hours to learning on Coursera for Rice . Many of these hours have been spent building high-demand skills like problem-solving and critical thinking, accounting, computer science and programming, data science, and statistical analysis skills.

For Rice's own faculty and staff, these skills can be applied to research excellence , digital transformation, and continuous operational improvements across the institution.

For Rice students, these skills and proficiencies position our community for hiring and help ensure Rice graduates are best equipped for modern labor demands -- locally within Houston , nationally, and globally.

Here’s a look into the top skills and proficiencies Rice has assessed over the past 90 days in the Coursera for Rice program:

Want to get involved?

Rice University’s digital learning initiatives help broaden learner access to our world-class faculty across discipline areas, while extending and building the university’s reputation for academic excellence globally. Learners everywhere seek high-quality educational content that helps them realize their personal and professional goals.

• Are you a Rice faculty member or instructor interested in working with us? Get in touch with Shawn Miller , Associate Provost for Digital Learning and Strategy.
• Are you a member of the Rice community interested in free access to Rice’s online courses on Coursera? Get started with the Coursera for Rice program now.
• Other questions or comments? Email [email protected] .
• Presenting the 2024 Coursera Global Skills Report
• Rice + Coursera Partnership dashboards, with data through August 26, 2024.

Things to Do in Maykop, Russia - Maykop Attractions

Things to do in maykop.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.

1. Maykop Cathedral Mosque

2. State Museum of Oriental Art

3. Zolotaya Kladovaya Asi Yeutykh

4. Maykop Park

5. Adygea Republican Museum of Local Lore

6. Beer Factory

7. Monument to Saint Nicholas

8. Chamber Musical Theater

9. Memorial to the Soldiers of the 131st Maykop Separate Motorized Rifle Troop

10. Konopli Museum

11. Pushkin State Drama Theater

12. observation deck, 13. adygea art gallery.

14. Adygea Gory Udovolstviy

15. The Building of the Railway Station Maikop

16. Monument The Unity and Concord

17. Adygea Republican Sports and Health Complex

18. sculptural composition "shoe"..

19. Church of Saint George

20. Obelisk Forever With Russia

21. konopli museum.

22. Friendship Square

23. Holy Trinity Cathedral

24. Lenin Square

25. Ananas Entertainment Center

26. Surb Harutyun Church

27. Philharmonic Building

28. Monument to V. I. Lenin

29. Monument to A. S. Pushkin

30. Monument to M. S. Shovgenov

What travelers are saying.

• The Republic of Adygea

Adygea is a Russian federal subject found in the south-western part of Russia in the northern part of Caucasus region. It is part of the Southern federal District. It stretches from the Kuban River in the south to the Caucasus foothills to cover an area of 2,900 square miles, and it is the 5th smallest republic in the Russian Federation. The official languages in the Republic are the Adyghe and the Russian languages. The largest city in the Republic is Maykop which is also Adygea’s capital, and it is home to about one-third of the total population in the Republic.

Maykop is the largest and the capital of Adygea Republic in the Federation of Russia . It is found on the bank of Baleya River which is a tributary of the Kuban River. The city shares its boundaries with the District of Maykopsky to the south and east, the district of Giagnsky to the north, and the District of Belorechensky in the Krai of Krasnodar to the west. The population of the city has been almost constant, and in 1989 it had a population of 148,608 people, in 2000 it had a population of 156,931 people, while in 2010 population of the city had dropped to 144,249 people.

History of Maykop

Maykop is named after the Maykop culture of the early Bronze Age, and this was after the discovery of a royal burial site in 1897. In 1857, the Russian military Fort was built in the area where the city is located. Oil deposits and natural gas were discovered near the City of Maykop in 1911, and in 1936 Maykop, together with the surrounding area, were merged to create the autonomous oblast of Adyghe and effectively becoming the administrative center for the autonomous region. In 1942, the city of Maykop was occupied by the unified army of Nazi Germany (Wehrmacht) without any resistance because of the operation of Germany ’s Brandenburger commandos. However, in January 1943 the city was liberated by the Red Army. The city has been the capital of Adygea republic in the Russian Federation since 1991.

Economic Activities

The foothills of Caucasus Mountains are covered with deciduous forests while other parts of the Republic is mainly plains which has rich soils and agriculture is the main activity and crops such as wheat, corn, hemp, sunflowers, tobacco, potatoes, vegetables, and melons a widely cultivated. There is a local specialty of a flower which is cultivated for its scent that belongs to the lavender and the Crimean Rose. Floodplains along the Kuban River are marshy, and there are approximately 8,000 hectares which have been claimed for market gardening. The main industry in the Republic is primarily processing of farm products, and there are oil and natural gas which is extracted near the Maykop. Similarly, timber is another major product particularly in the Southern part of the Republic.

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• Republic of Adygea

Maikop is the capital of the small and pastoral Republic of Adygea which is entirely located within the Krasnodar Territory and therefore easy to visit from Krasnodar . It is a very pleasant city with an impressive central mosque. There are also some beautiful natural sites on the outskirts of the city.

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