How to Write the University of Rhode Island Essays 2025-2026
The University of Rhode Island, situated in Kingston, is a diverse and dynamic community whose members are united by a shared pursuit of knowledge. As a major research university defined by innovation and big thinking, URI offers its undergraduate, graduate, and professional students distinctive educational opportunities designed to meet the global challenges of today’s world and the rapidly evolving needs of tomorrow.
The University of Rhode Island has supplemental essay prompts for Nursing, PharmD applicants, Honors Program, and Talent Development. Each program only has one supplemental essay, but they are required for your application. Check out our tips below to help your essays stand out.
University of Rhode Island Supplemental Essay Prompts
Nursing Applicants
Prompt: Please provide a statement of 250 words or fewer explaining why you have chosen this major. (250 words)
PharmD Direct Admission Applicants
Prompt: Please provide a statement of 250 words or fewer explaining why you have chosen this major. (250 words) Required
Honors Program Applicants
Prompt: URI Honors offers students an opportunity to engage in advanced coursework, thought-provoking project work/dialogue, and more. One defining moment of your Honors journey is participation in our inspiring yearly Colloquium. The URI Honors Program brings in amazing guest speakers, including scientists, bestselling authors, actors, politicians, activists, and other incredible leaders. Past students have met legends like Jane Goodall, actor B.D. Wong, and countless other changemakers. To learn more about our Honors Students and the URI Honors Program, check out our website and YouTube channel. If you’d like to be considered for the URI Honors Program, please submit a brief statement responding to the prompt below. In 250 words or less, please tell us:
What theme would you pick for your Colloquium? To guide you through your statement, consider answering the following questions within your writing:
Why does this theme matter to you personally?
Why would this topic grab the attention of other high schoolers and URI students?
What makes this theme super relevant to what’s happening in the world today?
Get creative and think about it—we’re excited to see what ideas you come up with! (250 words)
Talent Development Applicants
Prompt: Following the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the University of Rhode Island (URI) established Talent Development (TD) as a special admission program for historically marginalized Rhode Island students looking to enter higher education and earn a baccalaureate degree. Tell us about aspects of your lived experience that you believe make you an ideal candidate for the Talent Development program. (250-500 words)
Nursing Prompt
Please provide a statement of 250 words or fewer explaining why you have chosen this major. (250 words)
This is a Why This Major essay prompt, where your goal is to explain your motivations for choosing nursing as a major. You need to articulate both your passion for the field and how your experiences have shaped this decision. Admissions officers want to see your connection to nursing and your understanding of what a career in this field entails.
Brainstorming Your Essay
When did you first become interested in nursing, and what sparked this interest? Have you had any personal experiences (like caring for a loved one, volunteering at a hospital, or working in healthcare) that solidified your decision to pursue nursing? What qualities do you possess that make you well-suited for a career in nursing? How do you envision yourself making a difference as a nurse? What aspects of nursing (patient care, health education, etc.) excite you the most, and why?
What Makes a Good Response
Demonstrate a deep, personal connection to nursing. Whether it’s an experience with a family member, a volunteer opportunity, or a job, your story should show that this choice is both thoughtful and meaningful. Show that you understand what nursing entails, including the challenges and rewards of the profession. Mention specific aspects of nursing that appeal to you, like patient care, community health, or mental health support. Reflect on how your experiences have prepared you for this field. Whether it’s through developing empathy, communication skills, or resilience, illustrate how these traits make you a strong candidate for nursing. Connect your passion for nursing to your future goals. Explain how becoming a nurse will allow you to achieve these goals and make a positive impact.
Hypothetical Student Examples
- Maria has been interested in healthcare since she was a child, but her decision to pursue nursing was solidified when she helped care for her grandmother during her battle with cancer. She realized she wanted to be the kind of nurse who could provide not only medical care but also emotional support to patients and their families during difficult times.
- Raj volunteered at a local clinic where he helped conduct health screenings in underserved communities. This experience showed him the critical role nurses play in community health and inspired him to pursue nursing, to work in public health to improve access to care in similar communities.
- Olivia worked as a lifeguard in high school, where she had to respond to emergencies and provide first aid. This experience, combined with her love for science, made her realize that nursing would allow her to combine her passion for helping others with her interest in biology and anatomy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Being Vague: Avoid general statements like “I want to help people” without providing specific examples or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to nursing.
- Overemphasizing Prestige: Don’t focus on the prestige of the nursing profession or the job stability it offers. Admissions officers want to see that you’re driven by a genuine passion for the field.
- Lack of Self-Reflection: Ensure your essay reflects on your experiences and how they’ve shaped your decision. Simply listing what you’ve done won’t show the depth of your commitment.
Good and Bad Examples
Good Example
“Every time I stepped into the ICU to visit my aunt, who was battling a severe autoimmune disease, I felt a mix of fear and hope. Watching the nurses navigate her care with both precision and compassion left a lasting impression on me. One nurse in particular always took the time to explain the complex medical procedures to my anxious family, and she inspired me to pursue nursing. I want to be the kind of nurse who not only administers care but also provides comfort to patients and their families during their most vulnerable moments. My experience volunteering at a local hospital, where I learned how to provide basic care and emotional support, further fueled my desire to enter this field. I am committed to becoming a nurse who makes a tangible difference in the lives of others, driven by both skill and empathy.”
Why this is good: This example is personal and specific, showing a clear connection between the student’s experiences and their desire to become a nurse. It demonstrates understanding of the profession and the skills needed, like empathy and communication.
Bad Example
“I’ve always been drawn to the idea of helping people, which is why I’ve chosen to pursue nursing. Nurses are essential in the healthcare system, and I admire how they work alongside doctors to provide care. The stability and demand in the nursing profession are also attractive to me, as I want a career that is both secure and respected. I’ve always done well in science classes, particularly biology, which makes nursing a logical choice. Additionally, nurses have the opportunity to work in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and even schools, which means there will be plenty of job options available to me. I’m also excited by the potential to continue my education and possibly become a nurse practitioner or even a doctor one day. Overall, nursing seems like a practical and rewarding career path that will allow me to help people while also ensuring a stable future for myself.”
Why this is bad: This example is overly focused on the practical aspects of nursing, like job stability and career flexibility, rather than a genuine passion for patient care. It lacks any personal experiences or meaningful reflection that would show a deep connection to the nursing profession.
PharmD Direct Admission Prompt
Please provide a statement of 250 words or fewer explaining why you have chosen this major. (250 words)
This is a Why This Major essay, where you need to explain your motivation for pursuing a PharmD (Doctor of Pharmacy) degree. Admissions committees are looking for evidence that you have thoughtfully considered your choice, have a genuine interest in the field, and understand the challenges and rewards of a career in pharmacy.
Brainstorming Your Essay
What first sparked your interest in pharmacy? Was it a personal experience, a class, or a mentor? Have you had any direct experiences in the field of pharmacy, such as shadowing, internships, or volunteering? What specific aspects of pharmacy (e.g., patient care, pharmaceutical research, community health) excite you the most? How does pursuing a PharmD align with your long-term career goals? What personal qualities or skills do you have that will make you successful in the pharmacy field?
What Makes a Good Response
Start by demonstrating a clear and personal connection to the field of pharmacy, such as a family member’s illness that led you to understand the importance of medications or a particular experience that ignited your interest. Show that you understand what a career in pharmacy entails, including the role of a pharmacist in healthcare, the importance of patient education, and the complexities of medication management. Connect your decision to pursue a PharmD to your future aspirations, such as working in a clinical setting, conducting pharmaceutical research, or improving access to healthcare in underserved communities. Highlight relevant skills and qualities, such as attention to detail, empathy, communication skills, and a passion for science, which make you well-suited for this profession.
Hypothetical Student Examples
- Emily discovered her passion for pharmacy while volunteering at a community clinic where she saw the critical role pharmacists play in patient care, particularly in managing chronic conditions. Her goal is to work in community pharmacy, helping underserved populations manage their health through proper medication use.
- Michael was inspired to pursue a PharmD after his grandfather’s complex medication regimen became a family concern. He became fascinated with pharmacology and wants to specialize in geriatric pharmacy, ensuring that elderly patients receive safe and effective medication management.
- Nina excelled in chemistry and biology in high school and was drawn to pharmacy because it combines her love for science with her desire to help people. She’s interested in pharmaceutical research and hopes to contribute to the development of new medications that can improve patients’ quality of life.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Vagueness: Avoid generic statements like “I want to help people” without providing specific experiences or insights into why pharmacy is the right path for you.
- Focusing on Job Security: Don’t emphasize the job stability or salary of a pharmacy career. Admissions committees want to see genuine passion, not just practical reasons.
- Lack of Understanding: Make sure you show a clear understanding of what pharmacists do and the impact they have on patient care.
Good and Bad Examples
Good Example
“My passion for pharmacy began during a high school science fair project where I researched how common medications impact the human body. Fascinated by how something so small could have such a profound effect, I sought out more knowledge, leading me to shadow a local pharmacist. Watching her interact with patients, carefully explaining dosage instructions and potential side effects, I realized the critical role pharmacists play in healthcare. This experience solidified my desire to pursue a PharmD, where I can blend my love of science with my passion for helping others. I’m particularly interested in working in clinical pharmacy, where I can provide direct patient care and ensure that medications are used safely and effectively. I’m eager to contribute to a field that not only improves individual patient outcomes but also enhances public health on a larger scale.”
Why this is good: This example is specific, personal, and shows a clear understanding of the pharmacy profession. It connects the student’s experiences and interests to their future goals in pharmacy.
Bad Example
“Pharmacy is a good fit for me because of the intersections of science and service. I’ve always enjoyed science courses, especially biology and chemistry. Additionally, I am interested in going into a health service profession because helping people is rewarding and gives me a sense of accomplishment, like when I helped care for my grandmother after her knee replacement. Pharmacy is the perfect combination of these two things while also being a secure, stable career. I want to work in a pharmacy where I can help people get the medicine they need and feel secure and comfortable with the care they receive. I think this is a good career for me because I am detail-oriented and like helping others.”
Why this is bad: This example is vague and uninspiring. It lacks a personal connection to the field of pharmacy, overemphasizes job stability, and doesn’t demonstrate a deep understanding of what a pharmacist does. It’s generic and could apply to any science-related career.
Honors Program Prompt
URI Honors offers students an opportunity to engage in advanced coursework, thought-provoking project work/ dialogue, and more. One defining moment of your Honors journey is participation in our inspiring yearly Colloquium. The URI Honors Program brings in amazing guest speakers, including scientists, bestselling authors, actors, politicians, activists, and other incredible leaders. Past students have met legends like Jane Goodall, actor B.D. Wong, and countless other changemakers. To learn more about our Honors Students and the URI Honors Program, check out our website and YouTube channel. If you’d like to be considered for the URI Honors Program, please submit a brief statement responding to the prompt below. In 250 words or less, please tell us:
What theme would you pick for your Colloquium? To guide you through your statement, consider answering the following questions within your writing:
Why does this theme matter to you personally?
Why would this topic grab the attention of other high schoolers and URI students?
What makes this theme super relevant to what’s happening in the world today?
Get creative and think about it—we’re excited to see what ideas you come up with! (250 words)
This essay asks you to propose a theme for the Honors Colloquium — a major, university-wide event featuring world-class speakers. Your response should show three things: (1) A personal connection, why this theme resonates with you. (2) Share why other students would care about it, too? (3) Why this topic matters in the world right now. This is less about proving academic readiness and more about showing your curiosity, creativity, and ability to think across disciplines.
Brainstorming Your Essay
To generate ideas, ask yourself what global, cultural, or scientific issue excites or concerns me most. (climate change, AI, mental health, equity in education, art and technology, social justice, space exploration, etc.). Why does this issue matter to me personally? Did I experience it directly, research it, or witness its impact on people I care about? Why would my peers be drawn to it? Would it spark debate, inspire action, or connect to their lived experiences? Who could speak at this colloquium? Can I imagine notable figures (authors, scientists, activists) contributing? How does this issue connect to today’s headlines, emerging technology, or social change?
What Makes a Good Response
A strong essay will anchor in a personal stake. Admissions wants to see why you care, not just that it’s an important issue. Be timely and link the theme to something shaping today’s world. Show your creativity. Propose a theme that feels fresh and intellectually exciting, not a generic issue like “leadership” or “teamwork.” Show how the theme would challenge or inspire college students specifically. Lastly, instead of “mental health,” propose “The Future of Mental Health: Technology, Connection, and Human Resilience.” Instead of “climate change,” try “Rewilding the Future: How We Heal Our Planet and Ourselves.”
Hypothetical Student Examples
- Nina, future marine biology major: Growing up near Narragansett Bay, Nina witnessed rising water temperatures affect local fisheries. She proposes “Oceans in Crisis: The Fight for Our Blue Planet”, connecting her passion for marine ecosystems with global urgency around climate change and sustainability.
- Marcus, computer science + ethics enthusiast: After experimenting with ChatGPT in school, he became fascinated with its potential and risks. He proposes “The Age of AI: What It Means to Be Human,” exploring how artificial intelligence challenges creativity, ethics, and identity.
- Leah, first-generation college student: Having navigated the pressures of balancing academics and family responsibilities, she proposes “Redefining Success: Mental Health, Burnout, and the Student Journey.” She ties it to both her experience and the larger national conversation around youth mental health.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing a cliché theme: “Leadership,” “Kindness,” or “Diversity” without a unique spin will feel flat.
- Ignoring yourself: Don’t just write about a global problem without explaining your personal connection.
- Being too broad: Instead of “climate change,” focus on a specific lens (sustainable oceans, environmental justice, renewable innovation).
- Forgetting peers: Make sure the theme would excite other students, not just you.
- Listing speakers: You don’t need to name-drop lots of famous people — the theme matters more than the guest list.
Good and Bad Examples
Good Example
“When I used an AI tool to generate a poem for English class, I felt both amazed and uneasy. Was this creativity — or just imitation? That tension inspired my proposed colloquium theme: ‘The Age of AI: What It Means to Be Human.’
This theme matters to me because I want to study computer science but also grapple with the ethical and artistic questions behind the technology I’m learning to build. It would resonate with URI students because AI is already reshaping the way we write essays, make art, and prepare for future careers. From Silicon Valley to Hollywood to classrooms like ours, the conversation is urgent: how do we use AI responsibly without losing our humanity?
Bringing in scientists, artists, and ethicists to debate this would spark conversations far beyond the Colloquium stage. I imagine peers leaving not with answers, but with sharper questions about how to shape a future where humans and machines grow together. That’s the kind of dialogue that excites me about the Honors experience.”
Why it’s good: Personal anecdote, bold theme, clear relevance to peers and the world, thought-provoking framing.
Bad Example
“I would choose the theme of leadership. Leadership is important in every part of life, whether in school, business, or politics. Students would learn a lot from hearing leaders talk about how they achieved success, and this would inspire us to be leaders in our own communities. The world always needs more leaders, which is why I think this would be a great topic.”
Why it’s bad: Overly broad, no personal connection, could apply to any college essay, and doesn’t show creativity.
Talent Development Applicants Prompt
Following the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the University of Rhode Island (URI) established Talent Development (TD) as a special admission program for historically marginalized Rhode Island students looking to enter higher education and earn a baccalaureate degree. Tell us about aspects of your lived experience that you believe make you an ideal candidate for the Talent Development program. (250-500 words)
This prompt asks you to reflect on your personal experiences and how they have shaped your identity and aspirations, particularly in the context of being a historically marginalized student. The Diversity essay archetype applies here, where you should highlight your unique perspective, challenges you’ve faced, and how these experiences have prepared you to thrive in the Talent Development program. Admissions officers are looking for students who have demonstrated resilience, determination, and a commitment to their education despite any obstacles.
Brainstorming Your Essay
What challenges have you faced as a result of your background, and how have you overcome them? How have your experiences as a historically marginalized student influenced your academic journey? What unique perspectives or strengths do you bring to the table that align with the goals of the Talent Development program? Have you been involved in any community service, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities that reflect your commitment to education and community upliftment? In what ways do you hope to contribute to the URI community and the Talent Development program?
What Makes a Good Response
Personal storytelling is the key for a good essay! Share specific, personal stories that illustrate the challenges you’ve faced and how they’ve shaped your character. This could include overcoming economic hardship, navigating systemic inequalities, or managing cultural expectations. Show how you’ve demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity. Discuss moments where you had to persevere to achieve your goals and how these experiences have prepared you for success in college. Explain how your lived experiences make you a perfect fit for the Talent Development program. Highlight your desire to give back to your community and how this program aligns with your educational and career aspirations. Finally, connect your past experiences with your future goals. Discuss how the Talent Development program will help you achieve your aspirations and how you plan to use your education to uplift others.
Hypothetical Student Examples
- Javier grew up in a low-income neighborhood where access to quality education was limited. Despite this, he excelled academically, often staying late at the library to study. His experiences volunteering as a tutor for younger students in his community have inspired him to pursue a career in education, where he hopes to create more equitable opportunities for marginalized students.
- Aisha was raised in a predominantly immigrant community where language barriers and cultural differences often made it difficult for students like her to navigate the education system. She became an advocate for students facing similar challenges, organizing study groups and helping peers apply for college. Her experiences have driven her to pursue a degree in social work to continue advocating for marginalized communities.
- Lena grew up in a single-parent household, where financial instability often meant prioritizing survival over academics. Despite these challenges, she maintained top grades and took on leadership roles in school clubs. Lena sees the Talent Development program as a stepping stone to becoming a lawyer, where she plans to work on behalf of families like hers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Generalizations: Avoid vague statements about overcoming challenges without specific examples or details. Your essay should provide a clear picture of your experiences.
- Focusing Too Much on Obstacles: While it’s important to discuss challenges, make sure your essay emphasizes how you’ve grown and what you’ve achieved despite these obstacles.
- Neglecting Program Alignment: Ensure that you connect your experiences to the goals of the Talent Development program and URI. Your essay should clearly explain why this program is the right fit for you.
Good and Bad Examples
Good Example
“As a child of Mexican immigrants, I’ve always straddled two worlds—the vibrant culture of my heritage and the often challenging reality of navigating life in the United States as a first-generation student. My parents sacrificed everything to give me a better life, but growing up in a low-income neighborhood meant I had to learn quickly how to overcome obstacles that many of my peers did not face. My family didn’t speak English when we arrived, so I became the bridge between them and the outside world. I was their translator at doctor’s appointments, their advocate in parent-teacher conferences, and their guide through the maze of American bureaucracy.
These responsibilities, while challenging, shaped my character and my goals. I learned the importance of resilience, not just in academics but in life. When my father lost his job during the recession, I stepped up to help by working part-time after school, all while maintaining a full course load and participating in my school’s leadership program. This experience taught me the value of hard work and the power of education as a tool for change. It wasn’t easy balancing work, school, and home responsibilities, but it instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility and a relentless drive to succeed.
In high school, I joined a program that provided tutoring to younger students from immigrant families. I saw myself in those students—the confusion and frustration they felt trying to keep up in a system that wasn’t designed for them. I became more than just a tutor; I became a mentor, helping them navigate not just their homework but also their identities as they balanced their cultural heritage with their aspirations in America. This experience solidified my desire to pursue a career in education, where I can continue to uplift students from marginalized backgrounds, just as I have been uplifted by mentors in my own life.
The Talent Development program at URI aligns perfectly with my aspirations. I see it as an opportunity not just to receive an education, but to join a community that values diversity, resilience, and the drive to overcome adversity. I’m particularly drawn to the program’s focus on supporting students from historically marginalized backgrounds because I know firsthand the difference that such support can make. It’s not just about academics; it’s about building a network of peers and mentors who understand your struggles and are committed to helping you succeed.
I am eager to bring my unique perspective to the Talent Development program. My lived experiences have not only shaped my identity but have also fueled my passion for education and social justice. I am committed to using my education to break down barriers for others, just as I have had to break down barriers in my own life. The Talent Development program will provide me with the tools, support, and community I need to turn my aspirations into reality, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to and grow within the URI community.”
Why this is good: This essay is detailed and personal, providing a clear narrative that connects the student’s background with their aspirations and future goals. It effectively shows how the student’s lived experiences have shaped their identity, resilience, and commitment to education. The essay demonstrates a deep understanding of the Talent Development program and how it aligns with the student’s personal and academic goals, making it a compelling and memorable response.
Bad Example
“I have always considered myself a hardworking and determined student, and I believe that my background makes me a perfect fit for the Talent Development program at URI. As a student from a marginalized community, I have faced numerous challenges throughout my life, but I have always strived to overcome them. My parents immigrated to the United States when I was young, and they worked tirelessly to provide for our family. Seeing their struggles taught me the value of hard work and perseverance.
Growing up, I often felt like I had to work twice as hard as my peers to achieve the same results. I didn’t have access to the same resources as many of my classmates, and this often made school difficult. However, I always did my best to stay focused on my studies and achieve good grades. I also participated in extracurricular activities like student government and the debate team, which helped me develop leadership skills and a sense of responsibility.
In addition to my academic efforts, I have also faced personal challenges that have shaped who I am today. For example, when my grandmother fell ill, I had to take on additional responsibilities at home, such as helping my younger siblings with their homework and taking care of household chores. These experiences taught me how to manage my time effectively and balance multiple responsibilities. Despite these obstacles, I have remained committed to my education and have never lost sight of my goals.
I am passionate about continuing my education and believe that the Talent Development program at URI will provide me with the support and resources I need to succeed. I am excited about the opportunity to be part of a program that values diversity and is dedicated to helping students like me achieve their full potential. I believe that my experiences have prepared me to thrive in college and contribute positively to the URI community.
Ultimately, I see myself as someone who is ready to take on the challenges of higher education and make a difference in the world. I want to use my degree to give back to my community and help others who are facing similar challenges. The Talent Development program will help me achieve these goals by providing me with the tools and opportunities I need to succeed in college and beyond.
I am confident that with the support of the Talent Development program, I will be able to achieve my academic and career goals. I look forward to the opportunity to be part of this program and to contribute to the URI community.”
Why this is bad: This example lacks depth and specificity. While it mentions challenges and aspirations, it fails to provide concrete examples or personal stories that illustrate the student’s experiences. The essay relies on generic statements like “I have faced numerous challenges” and “I believe in hard work,” which do not effectively convey the student’s unique perspective or connection to the Talent Development program. Additionally, it doesn’t delve into how the student’s background specifically aligns with the goals of the program, making the essay less compelling and memorable.
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