Home in Texas Christopher J. Spradling

The statement of purpose will provide an opportunity to explain any extenuating circumstances that you feel could add value to your application. You may also want to explain unique aspects of your academic background or valued experiences you may have had that relate to your academic discipline. The statement of purpose is not meant to be a listing of accomplishments in high school or a record of your participation in school-related activities. Rather, this is your opportunity to address the admissions committee directly and to let us know more about you as an individual, in a manner that your transcripts and other application information cannot convey.

A year ago, I desperately wanted to go to college out-of-state. My family had been in Texas for several generations, so I wanted to leave everything behind me, go my own way, and not look back. Also, my father graduated from the University of Texas, so I felt compelled to break that mold. However, as soon as I got away from Texas I realized just how much I really was leaving behind. I now know that I want to be a part of Texas, and a part of the University of Texas.

During my junior and senior years of high school, as I considered various options for college, I found myself...