2026 Honors College Essay Prompt
The Honors College at Appalachian State University is a community of students who are intellectually curious, eager to explore ideas across disciplines, and committed to meaningful engagement with others. As part of our program, you’ll take interdisciplinary seminars, conduct original research or creative work, participate in global learning, and receive close mentoring from faculty and staff.
While our University Honors curriculum usually involves about one Honors course per semester, the most meaningful parts of the experience—mentoring relationships, research or creative work, and a vibrant community of peers—develop best over at least three years of active involvement. As you reflect on this essay, we encourage you to consider how your academic and personal goals align with that timeline and the opportunities the Honors College offers.
In 400–500 words, choose one of the following quotes as a starting point. Reflect on how the quote resonates with you—especially in terms of your intellectual curiosity, your interest in exploring ideas across disciplines, and your desire to engage meaningfully in a community of learners. We’re not looking for a “right” answer; we want to understand what excites you as a thinker and how you hope to grow within the Honors College.
1. “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” — Mary Oliver
What are you most curious about—what subjects, ideas, or questions feel urgent, exciting, or meaningful to you?
How do you imagine exploring those interests in college, beyond the boundaries of a single major or discipline?
How might a sustained commitment to the Honors College community help you live a purposeful intellectual life—and how do you imagine contributing to the community that grows alongside you?
2. “Knowledge is not something a learner absorbs, but something a learner creates.” — George Couros
What does meaningful learning look like for you?
How have you contributed to, or would you like to contribute to, a community where knowledge is created together?
How might your learning and contributions grow over time as you find your place in the Honors College—and what do you hope to give back to the community that supports you?
3. “Thinking is not driven by answers but by questions.” — Richard Paul and Linda Elder
What kinds of questions fascinate you or keep you thinking?
How do you respond to intellectual challenges or unfamiliar ideas?
What role do you imagine the Honors College playing in your long-term pursuit of big questions—and how might you shape a curious, thoughtful community in return?