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UMD Essays
Fearless Ideas.

Master University of Maryland's short-answer essays. Learn to write bold, specific, and concise responses that stand out in 650 characters.

The Challenge of UMD Short Answers

University of Maryland is famous for its brevity. Unlike the Common App personal statement, these prompts are "short-takes." You have roughly 160 words (650 characters) to make an impression. This constraint forces you to be specific, strategic, and memorable.

UMD values "Fearless Ideas"—bold thinking, intellectual curiosity, and well-rounded humanity. Your essays should demonstrate that you're not just academically strong, but intellectually diverse and willing to take risks.

Prompt 1: "If I could travel anywhere, I would go to..."

Most students choose Japan, Iceland, or Paris. To stand out, your destination must be a metaphor for your curiosity.

Pro AI Approach

"Give me 5 unique travel destinations for a student interested in Marine Biology that aren't typical tourist traps."

The Goal: Show, don't tell. If you choose the Galápagos Islands, mention specific evolutionary traits you want to observe.

Prompt 2: "In addition to my major..."

UMD loves "multidisciplinary" students. If you're applying for Computer Science, talk about your love for 19th-century poetry. This proves you're a well-rounded human, not a robot.

The Multidisciplinary Edge

Most applicants list tangential interests. Instead, find a genuine intersection. Example: "My Computer Science background informs my study of narrative structures in gaming—I'm interested in how AI can craft emotionally compelling stories."

Writing for the "Terps" Brand

Maryland looks for "Fearless Ideas." Your tone should be:

Bold

Don't play it safe. Avoid generic statements like 'help the world.'

Specific

Use names, dates, and technical terms. Be precise.

Concise

650 characters means no 'very,' 'really,' or filler words.

UMD Essay FAQ