essay requirements for university of miami

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essay requirements for university of miami

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Beginning in mid-September, you will get access to the UM Applicant Portal approximately 48 - 72 hours after you submit your application. Be sure to check the Applicant Portal often to ensure all of your documents and supplemental materials have been received.

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Undergraduate Requirements

First-Year Admission:

Admission to the University of Miami is very competitive. First-Year applicants are considered based on the strength of their high school curriculum and grades earned, standardized test scores*, letters of recommendation, essay, extracurricular activities, and awards/achievements. Application materials (application, test scores, transcripts, and letters of recommendation) must be postmarked or received no later than Common Application deadlines. For a full list of First-Year Admission Requirements, you may visit the University of Miami Undergraduate Admissions website .

First-Year architecture applicants are not required to submit a portfolio but are HIGHLY encouraged. *School of Architecture candidates can choose to submit a portfolio in place of an SAT/ACT score. All portfolios submitted will be evaluated for Talent Based Scholarships. Architecture portfolios must be submitted under same deadline met for Common Application. Once your application is downloaded and processed, you will receive an acknowledgment email within 3-4 business days containing your Cane ID and instructions on how to log into your Applicant Portal . If you do not receive a confirmation email within two weeks after submitting your application, check your junk mail, spam, and clutter folders in case the email has been filtered. To check the status of your application, visit our Check Your Application page. For Common Application deadlines please see the Undergraduate Admission Requirements posted on the Undergraduate Admission website.

For more information, contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions or the U-SoA Academic Services Office at 305-284-3731. Enrollment in the School of Architecture is selective and limited by space and other resources; early application is encouraged.

Undergraduate Transfer Admission:

Undergraduate Transfer applications are processed by the University of Miami Office of Undergraduate Admissions and are reviewed by the U-SoA Undergraduate Faculty Admissions Committee. Transfer students applying to the B.Arch. program must submit their transcripts, letters of recommendations, college report and test scores to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions . Students requesting Advanced Standing in the design sequence must submit a portfolio. Architecture portfolios must be submitted under same deadline met for Common Application. Once your application is downloaded and processed, you will receive an acknowledgment email within 3-4 business days containing your Cane ID and instructions on how to log into your Applicant Portal . If you do not receive a confirmation email within two weeks after submitting your application, check your junk mail, spam, and clutter folders in case the email has been filtered. To check the status of your application, visit our Check Your Application page. For a full list of Undergraduate Transfer Admission Requirements, you may visit the Undergraduate Admissions website .

Undergraduate Transfer students accepted into the Third-Year design sequence are required to attend a Summer/Fall integration design module.

University of Miami Students:

Students currently enrolled at the University of Miami in another major who are requesting transfer into the School of Architecture must fill out an “Academic Change Form” and send it to the School of Architecture to [email protected] for review. No portfolio is required for University of Miami Students transferring into First-Year design sequence.

Suggestions for your Architecture Portfolio:

Architecture portfolios must be submitted under same deadline met for Common Application. Once your application is downloaded and processed, you will receive an acknowledgment email within 3-4 business days containing your Cane ID and instructions on how to log into your Applicant Portal . If you do not receive a confirmation email within two weeks after submitting your application, check your junk mail, spam, and clutter folders in case the email has been filtered. To check the status of your application, visit our Check Your Application page.

For Common Application deadlines please see the Undergraduate Admission Requirements posted on the Undergraduate Admission website .

Submit portfolio as PDF file with viewing set to two-up with cover
Limit size of PDF to no larger than 10MB
Name your PDF: LAST NAME_FIRST NAME_(YEAR OF SUBMISSION) PORTFOLIO
Note the following on the first or second page of the portfolio: Contact Information Type of Application - First-Year or Transfer
Video with suggestions for composing a portfolio.
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Freshman Application Steps

1. complete the application.

Complete and submit the Common Application online. Please make sure that you are using the same email address for every part of the application process, this also includes signing up for standardized tests.

The essay portion of the application provides an opportunity for applicants to demonstrate their ability to write clearly and concisely and develop and communicate their thoughts. Applicants will choose one of five specific prompts and write an essay of 250 to 650 words. Detailed instructions can be found in the Common Application . Please note: Your application is not complete and we cannot begin your application review until we receive all required forms. Your $70 non-refundable application fee can be paid when you submit the Common Application. For students applying for Spring or Fall 2018 admission, the Common Application will be available starting August 1, 2017 . Once you submit your application, it will take approximately three days for us to receive and begin reviewing it. Please allow us several weeks from the application deadline to process your documents and post them in CaneLink. During the busy application period, CaneLink is your best resource, as we are continually updating students' applications and documents.

2. Send Official Transcripts

The University of Miami only accepts transcripts coming directly from the high school or college as official.

Please have your high school or college (if applicable) submit official transcripts/supporting documents electronically or by mail to : University of Miami Office of Undergraduate Admission PO Box 249117 Coral Gables, FL 33124-9117

If sending via FedEx, DHL, UPS, or courier :

3. send official test scores.

All testing must be completed by November for Early Decision I and Early Action applicants and all testing must be completed by December for Early Decision II and Regular Decision applicants.

Test scores will only be accepted if they are submitted directly from the testing agency . If you take the test more than once, please ensure that the testing agency sends all of your scores so that we have your best performance on record. The Admission Committee will consider all official test scores from multiple test dates. We will use the highest composite score from among each test that you’ve taken. This is called super scoring . There is no limit to the number of test scores you may submit to us for your application.

We consider only the critical reading and math sections of the SAT for admission. Beginning Fall 2017, the ACT Plus Writing or the Redesigned SAT with optional Essay will be required for new undergraduate applicants with fewer than thirty transfer credits for English course placement.

Beginning in Spring 2016, applicants may submit scores from either the current or redesigned SAT. Students who take both tests will be evaluated on their best score. We will continue to super score the SAT. A concordance table is used to determine your highest critical reading and math scores, regardless of when the test was taken.

Test Codes:

SAT Code: 5815
ACT Code: 0760

Applicants currently studying OUTSIDE the U.S.

Students graduating from a secondary school outside the United States should not submit SAT or ACT scores.

All students whose native language is not English are required to submit official results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). For information on scores, visit the TOEFL or Other English Proficiency Requirements page .

TOEFL Code: 5815

4. Complete the School Report

The School Report should be completed by the applicant’s high school guidance counselor and can be found on the Common Application website. It is typically submitted along with the applicant's high school transcript and a school profile.

5. Letter of Recommendation

We require a letter of recommendation from your high school guidance counselor and a teacher evaluation. These can be submitted online through the Common Application or mailed to: University of Miami Office of Undergraduate Admission PO Box 249117 Coral Gables, FL 33124-9117

If sending via FedEx, DHL, UPS, or courier:

6. if applicable, submit your financial aid documents.

To learn more about eligibility and how to apply for financial assistance, visit the Office of Student Financial Assistance and Employment website.

7. Check Your Application Status

After submitting your application, please allow 3-4 business days for the University of Miami to receive it. Upon receipt, we’ll send you an acknowledgment email containing your CaneID and instructions about how to log in to CaneLink. Please remember to check your spam, junk, and clutter folders for this email.

CaneLink is your UM portal for tracking application materials and viewing your admission decision. Please allow several weeks from the application deadline to process your documents and post them in CaneLink. During the busy application period, CaneLink is your best resource, as we are continually updating students' applications and documents.

Freshman Application Deadlines

Freshmen choose from four application options: Early Decision I, Early Action, Early Decision II, or Regular Decision.

Please note, admission and financial aid applications that remain incomplete by the deadlines will be at a distinct disadvantage and likely will not be admitted.

Early Decision I

EARLY DECISION I (EDI) is our early, binding application option for applicants who are committed to attending UM if admitted.

If applying Early Decision I or II, you must complete and submit the Early Decision Agreement form , available through the Common Application .

Common Application and Supporting Documents

PROFILE FAFSA *2016 Federal Tax Return (with all schedules) and Employer W-2s

Admission Notification

Late December

Enrollment Deposit of $500

Early Action

EARLY ACTION (EA) is our early, non-binding application option.

Late January - Early February

Early Decision II

EARLY DECISION II (EDII) is an additional binding application option for applicants who are committed to attending UM if admitted but need more time to apply.

If applying Early Decision I or II, you must complete and submit the Early Decision Agreement form , available through the Common Application .

Common Application and Supporting Documents PROFILE FAFSA *2016 Federal Tax Return (with all schedules) and Employer W-2s

Mid-Late February

Enrollment Deposit of $500

Regular Decision

REGULAR DECISION (RD) is our final deadline.

Early April

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Admission Requirements

Transfer Admission Requirements

Related links, 1. complete the application.

Complete and submit the Common Application . Upon submitting, you will be asked to pay a $70 nonrefundable application fee. Be sure you use the same email address for every part of the application process.

Spring and Fall 2024 transfer applicants with fewer than 30 postsecondary credits at the time of their application who do not submit ACT or SAT scores will be required to submit a supplemental essay of 250 words or less.

Supplemental essay prompt:

Located within one of the most dynamic cities in the world, the University of Miami is a distinctive community with a variety of cultures, traditions, histories, languages, and backgrounds. The University of Miami is a values-based and purpose-driven postsecondary institution that embraces diversity and inclusivity in all its forms and strives to create a culture of belonging, where every person feels valued and has an opportunity to contribute.

Please describe how your unique experiences, challenges overcome, or skills acquired would contribute to our distinctive University community.

In addition, you will be asked to respond to a prompt in the Common Application addressing your reasons for transferring to the University, using 650 words or less. This essay portion of the application gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to develop your thoughts, to communicate them clearly, and to write them concisely conveying your unique voice. We also ask that you list your involvement in extracurricular activities, outside of school involvements and/or commitments; these will be evaluated as another factor in the admission process.

APPLY AS A TRANSFER STUDENT

2. Send Official College Transcripts

If you have attended more than one college/university, request that all of your official college transcripts be sent. This includes all dual/concurrent enrollment courses you may have taken in high school.

If you have completed fewer than 30 college/post-secondary credits, not including dual/concurrent enrollment courses, at the time you are applying for admission to the University of Miami, you are required to submit your final high school transcripts in addition to your college transcript.

Note, if you completed secondary school and/or attended University outside of the United States, please refer to the International Evaluation Requirements page.

Documents can be sent electronically to [email protected] or by mailing them to one of the addresses listed below.

Mailing Address University of Miami Office of Undergraduate Admission PO Box 249117 Coral Gables, FL 33124-9117

If sending via FedEx, DHL, UPS, or courier University of Miami Office of Undergraduate Admission 1306 Stanford Drive University Center, Suite 2275 Coral Gables, FL 33146

Prior to enrolling at the University of Miami, all transfer applicants—regardless of the number of postsecondary credits earned—will be required to submit a final high school transcript with date of graduation or its equivalent, including the GED (General Education Development/General Education Diploma).

3. Complete the College Report

We require a College Report from every US postsecondary institution you have attended as a degree-seeking student.

The College Report must be completed and submitted directly to the University by a college official who has access to both your academic and disciplinary information. Usually this form is submitted to us by an official in the Dean of Students or Conduct office at your school. This item is different than the academic transcript. The college official may submit the completed form by email to [email protected] . It can also be mailed to one of the following addresses:

If sending via FedEx, DHL, UPS, or courier University of Miami Office of Undergraduate Admission 1306 Stanford Drive University Center, Suite 2275 Coral Gables, FL 33146

If you are currently attending a college/university on a part-time basis (11 or fewer credits) as a non-degree seeking student , you are not required to submit a College Report. All others enrolled in domestic (US) postsecondary institutions , including part-time degree-seeking and full-time non-degree seeking students, must submit a College Report.

Note: If a student enrolled at the University of Miami prior to the Fall 2018 entry term, the University of Miami reserves the right to retroactively request College Reports from previously attended post-secondary institutions if any information should come to the attention of Undergraduate Admission about potential academic and student conduct while a student was enrolled at another college or university.

>> Understanding the College Report

4. Letter of Recommendation (Optional)

You may submit a letter of recommendation from a professor, college instructor, college academic advisor, or a recent employer, but it is not required. The letter should be submitted electronically through the Common Application or as an email directly from the person writing the recommendation to [email protected] . It can also be mailed to one of the addresses below:

If sending via FedEx, DHL, UPS, or courier University of Miami Office of Undergraduate Admission 1320 S. Dixie Highway Gables One Tower, Suite 945

5. Additional Requirements for Special Programs & Majors

If you are applying to any of the programs listed below, complete the supplemental application, submit a portfolio, and/or schedule an audition. Supplemental applications are available in the Applicant Portal. Starting mid-September, access to the Applicant Portal will be granted 48-72 hours after your admission application is received .

Bachelor of Architecture - Portfolio optional unless requesting advanced standing in the design sequence.
Frost School of Music* - Supplemental Application, Prescreen, and Audition Required
Theatre Arts B.F.A.* - Audition and Supplemental Application Required

* Not available for Spring applicants

Applicants to the Frost School of Music and the Theatre Arts B.F.A. program who are not admitted to the major of choice and did not indicate a second-choice major on their application will not be considered for admission to any other academic program at the University of Miami. Applicants may not add a second choice major after submitting their application to the University of Miami.

If you are applying to the Miami Herbert Business School , you must meet the following requirements:

3.0 GPA or better calculated by the University of Miami Office of Undergraduate Admission.
Completed college credit for an approved calculus course equivalent to either MTH 161 (4 credit hours) or MTH 140 / MTH 141 (8 credit hours), and earned a grade of “B” or better in the(se) course(s). Please note, w e will not accept a grade of P, S, or CR for the equivalent course. To have your calculus class approved, submit the course syllabus to the Department of Mathematics for review. The syllabus should include the name of the college where the course was taken, the title and author of the textbook, and the chapters covered. Online math classes are not transferrable to UM without prior approval from the math department.

Visit the University Academic Bulletin for additional information.

All transfer coursework will be reviewed on a course-by-course basis for equivalency to Miami Herbert Business School course requirements. Any business class that is from a non-AACSB accredited institution will be accepted only as elective credits toward the overall degree requirements. Transfer applicants may appeal to have transfer classes from non-AACSB accredited institutions reviewed for possible application toward business course requirements by submitting the course syllabus and textbook title to the Office of Undergraduate Business Education .

6. Send Test Scores

Review the options below and follow the instructions for the option that describes your educational background.

If you have completed less than 30 postsecondary credits (not including dual enrollment/concurrent enrollment courses), and are applying for Spring or Fall 2023, you can choose whether or not to submit test scores . If you choose not to, you must submit a supplemental essay.

I f applying for Spring 2024 or Fall 2024 with fewer than 30 postsecondary college credits, you will be required to submit a supplemental essay of 250 words or less in response to the prompt in section 1 above.

If you have completed more than 30 postsecondary credits, neither test scores nor a supplemental essay are required.

Completed High School in the U.S.
Completed Secondary School Outside of the U.S.

If you choose to submit your official ACT and/or SAT scores, have them sent directly from the testing agency.

Test Codes for UM:

ACT Code: 0760
SAT Code: 5815

Submitting ACT and/or SAT scores is optional for students graduating from a secondary school outside the United States.

All students whose native language is not English are required to submit official results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or Duolingo English Test (DET). For information on scores, visit the English Proficiency Requirements page.

TOEFL Code: C730
IELTS Code: 4861
DET Code: select “University of Miami Undergraduate Admissions” from the options

7. Submit Educational Activities

If you have a time gap of three months or more during your educational career or from the time you graduated high school to the date of your intended University of Miami enrollment, you must submit an Educational Activities statement in the Common Application explaining the reason for the gap(s) and include the dates.

If you are unable to provide this information within your Common Application, you can submit it through the applicant portal under the "Materials Upload" section, or by emailing it to [email protected] . If emailing, be sure to include “Educational Activities” in the subject line and your full name and date of birth on all correspondence. This information is required to complete your application file.

8. Submit Financial Aid Documents

If you are applying for financial aid, review the checklist on our Applying for Aid page. There you will find the dates and required documents that must be submitted in order to be considered for need-based financial aid.

It is recommended that the financial aid application including all supporting documents is completed at the same time as the application for admission to ensure a financial aid package at the time of admission.

9. Complete the Financial Certification Form (International applicants only)

All international transfer applicants must submit a Financial Certification Form, which can be accessed via the Applicant Portal after you have submitted your application.

International applicants who are applying for need-based financial aid must also submit the CSS Profile.

10. Send Conduct Updates

If there is an update to your conduct (academic or behavioral) or your standing as a student in your high school (suspension, expulsion, withdrawal, etc.) you must alert the Office of Undergraduate Admission immediately by uploading the documentation to the applicant portal in the "Materials Upload" section. You can also email documents to [email protected] .

Be sure to include your name and date of birth on all documents.

Check Your Application Status

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2 Magnificent University of Miami Essay Examples

Located in sunny Miami, the University of Miami consistently ranks as one of the top 50 colleges in the country. With over 180 degree programs to choose from, more than 300 student organizations, and a prime location in one of the most vibrant cities in the U.S., there is something for everyone at UMiami—especially those that love the sun!

Given how much UMiami has to offer, getting in isn’t easy: you’ll need more than just strong grades and test scores. Your essays will play a large role in your admissions decision, so they need to be good. In this post, we will share two essays that got students accepted into UMiami We will also go over what each essay did well and where there is room for improvement.

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

Essay Example #1 – Perspective

I had been dreaming of my high school experience since my six-year-old self watched High School Musical. I saw this dream shatter, as I was tasked with watching my baby sister after school until 5:30 due to my mom’s struggles with her birth. Although months had passed since the birth, she continuously struggled with c-section recovery. After one of my mom’s surgeries, my sister and I went to the hospital to visit her. Seeing her in such a fragile and vulnerable state shocked me into reality.

One day I would be the person carrying on the family name. I worked hard academically to make the family proud, but failed to embody the mindset and values my mother taught me. All her positivity, love for new experiences and family were clouded by my disappointment and frustration. Watching my sister wasn’t the fun, new experience I hoped for, but it was the one I was given and I needed to embrace it with the same happiness and excitement as the other.

In the previous years, I had failed myself before I even started with my pessimistic mindset. This period in life showed me the importance mindsets hold. When I began to embrace and enjoy my time watching my sister, I realized I still lived out my dream. I cheered her on in games peek-a-boo and created our own, personal coloring club. Now when things are not going to plan, I take on the challenge of remaining positive with a smile.

What the Essay Did Well

This is a classic “ Overcoming Challenges ” prompt, so the key to writing a strong response is to focus not just on the challenge itself, but also your thoughts and feelings to demonstrate how you grew as a result of experiencing the challenge. This essay does just that.

The shift from context to self-reflection occurs at the end of the first paragraph with the sentence “ Seeing her in such a fragile and vulnerable state shocked me into reality. ” What follows is a description of the student’s thoughts, which shows readers what being shocked into reality meant for them, and why that shock caused them to change their mindset.

We see the student start to see their unexpected high school experience not as a burden, but a responsibility and perhaps even an honor: “ One day I would be the person carrying on the family name.” They also show humility by explaining how they “ failed to embody the mindset and values ” of their mom, and then telling us what those values were by describing her “ love for new experiences and family. ”

Additionally, opening the essay with the lighthearted, fun image of High School Musical is a savvy choice, as the contrast between the “ fun, new experience [they] hoped for ,” and the serious, mature position they actually found themself in emphasizes the emotional weight of the student’s situation.

It’s also nice that this essay finishes by showing us what the student’s new mindset looks like: “ I cheered her on in games peek-a-boo and created our own, personal coloring club. ” Since the “Overcoming Challenges” essay is usually about a heavy topic, readers will appreciate things ending on an uplifting note.

Although a lot of the focus should be your thoughts and emotions in this type of essay, getting to see how those internal factors affected your choices and actions takes the story out of your head, and proves that this experience changed not just your mindset, but also how you conduct yourself out in the world.

What Could Be Improved

While the first paragraph does a nice job providing context, it could be rewritten to be more engaging by telling the story like it’s currently happening rather than reflecting. This might look something like replacing the line “I saw this dream shatter, as I was tasked with watching my baby sister after school until 5:30 due to my mom’s struggles with her birth” with “Instead of bursting into song and dance at the drop of a hat, however, every day after school I found myself cleaning mushy peas off the floor, dozing off during educational TV shows, and trying anything to keep my baby sister from kicking her socks off.”

The part of this essay that needs the most attention, however, is the last paragraph. As it’s written, the student is telling us in a general sense that this experience was good for them: “ This period in life showed me the importance mindsets hold…Now when things are not going to plan, I take on the challenge of remaining positive with a smile. ”

While this is a valuable realization, it also comes across as generic, as many people have this realization at some point in their lives. In this kind of essay, it’s okay to have your big takeaway be something familiar, since lots of teenagers learn similar lessons as they’re growing up. But to keep your essay from sounding like a Hallmark card, you want to include enough details that your reader can concretely see how this lesson has impacted your life. The writer could have accomplished this by reworking the last paragraph to something like:

“I’d always considered myself pessimistic, but suddenly I found myself smiling even on my worst days. I replaced counting down the minutes left watching my sister with a giggle-infused countdown that ended in “Ready or not, here I come!” My boredom-induced pencil doodles gave way to an invite-only sisters coloring club with glitter gel pens. Maybe my experience doesn’t look like High School Musical, but with a positive outlook, I’ve enjoyed myself just as much as Troy and Gabriella. ”

Essay Example #2 – Perseverance

Content warning: This essay includes graphic depictions of mental health struggles. If this topic is triggering for you, please read with caution. If you’re thinking about covering similar topics in your essay, we recommend reading our post Should You Talk About Mental Health in College Essays?

For the past two years, I’ve been more familiar with toilet bowls than dinner bowls.

Given my lengthy hours vomiting in the bathroom weekly, seeing liquid reiterations of each meal is commonplace. When people discuss mental health, they neglect to mention its physical manifestations.

It starts with an intense stomach ache that cements me to the bed. Then, the dry heaving ensues. For the rest of the day, I alternate between the bedroom and the bathroom as I endure body pains, fevers, and chills that persist even after I’ve finished vomiting. Major Depressive Disorder is more than a mental illness— it’s a physical issue that has affected my attendance for years.

However, despite my class absences, I’ve managed to juggle health, extracurriculars, and grades. From staying after school to complete make-up tests, to receiving study guides and class agendas from friends, diligence and community are the key ingredients of perseverance. At first, adapting to my limitations was difficult, but today, I work with my condition, not against it. When I launched a POC writers space for marginalized creatives and took on heavy social justice work, I learned setting time boundaries and honoring my own needs was necessary for my health.

At UMiami, my approach to adversity will thrive. Whether my Public Affairs Internship is too demanding, or my slam competition with Speak What You Feel is anxiety-inducing, I’ll remember to prioritize my mental health so my academic commitments don’t suffer.

Most importantly, I hope UMiami’s toilet bowls are decent.

This essay is incredibly well-written. While their graphic descriptions of their struggles may initially be jarring for some people, their detailed imagery is what allows this student to elicit such a visceral reaction from their readers.

For example, the image of being “ more familiar with toilet bowls than dinner bowls ” is a shocking way to start an essay, but the reader can’t help but immediately be invested. Although we might not like the thought of “ liquid reiterations ” of food, the creative phrasing paints a crystal clear picture in our heads, and that clarity helps us feel like we’re right beside the writer, rather than watching her struggle from a distance.

The student’s descriptions of the physical manifestations of their mental illness, including, “ an intense stomach ache that cements me to the bed ,” “ the dry heaving ensue s,” and “ I alternate between the bedroom and the bathroom ” continue to build our sympathy towards them, as these lines are described so well that we feel like we’re experiencing some of their pain ourselves.

However, this essay’s strength isn’t just in the imagery. This student also provides details that show us how they have overcome their challenge. For example, the line “ From staying after school to complete make-up tests, to receiving study guides and class agendas from friends, diligence and community are the key ingredients of perseverance” shows the student can weather a storm, which is exactly what admissions officers want to see in your response to this kind of prompt.

They also show us how they were able to “ [launch] a POC writers space for marginalized creatives and [take] on heavy social justice work ” by “ setting time boundaries and honoring my own needs. ” This sentence shows that they have not only persevered through their struggles, but actually used the lessons they learned as motivation in other areas of their life.

Another positive aspect of this essay is how the student ties in UMiami in the second to last paragraph. Just because you aren’t writing a “Why School?” essay doesn’t mean you can’t talk about resources at the college that align with your interests—in fact, colleges will be even more impressed if you weave school opportunities into a different essay topic.

That being said, you don’t want the connection to the school to feel forced, so if you aren’t able to figure out how to do it in a way that’s natural, it’s completely fine to just focus on responding to the prompt you actually have.

Finally, the ending is a nice tie back to the opening of the essay, which reminds the reader one last time about the challenges this student has had to overcome. Bringing back the image of a toilet bowl might be a bit of a shock, but it ensures that this essay is memorable.

While this essay doesn’t necessarily need to change anything, one thing to keep in mind is how to approach difficult or possibly triggering topics in a college essay. Although, on the whole, this essay handles the topic of mental health with tact, you never know who your reader is and what perspective they are bringing to the table. It’s important to not be excessive with your depictions of mental health, and to make sure the focus is primarily on how your illness has impacted your personal growth.

Where to Get Feedback on Your Essay

Do you want feedback on your University of Miami 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!

University of Miami Requirements for Admission

Choose your test.

What are University of Miami's admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

GPA requirements
Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
Application requirements

In this guide we'll cover what you need to get into University of Miami and build a strong application.

School location: Coral Gables, FL

Admissions Rate: 18.9%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at University of Miami is 18.9% . For every 100 applicants, only 19 are admitted.

This means the school is extremely selective . Meeting their GPA requirements and SAT/ACT requirements is very important to getting past their first round of filters and proving your academic preparation. If you don't meet their expectations, your chance of getting in is nearly zero.

After crossing this hurdle, you'll need to impress University of Miami application readers through their other application requirements, including extracurriculars, essays, and letters of recommendation. We'll cover more below.

We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world's best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies . We've overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools , from state colleges to the Ivy League.

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University of Miami GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school's average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 3.8

The average GPA at University of Miami is 3.8 .

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 3.8, University of Miami requires you to be near the top of your class , and well above average. Your transcript should show mostly A's. Ideally, you will also have taken several AP or IB classes to show that you can handle academics at a college level.

If you're currently a junior or senior, your GPA is hard to change in time for college applications. If your GPA is at or below the school average of 3.8, you'll need a higher SAT or ACT score to compensate . This will help you compete effectively against other applicants who have higher GPAs than you.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them.

University of Miami hasn't explicitly named a policy on SAT/ACT requirements, but because it's published average SAT or ACT scores (we'll cover this next), it's likely test flexible. Typically, these schools say, "if you feel your SAT or ACT score represents you well as a student, submit them. Otherwise, don't."

Despite this policy, the truth is that most students still take the SAT or ACT, and most applicants to University of Miami will submit their scores. If you don't submit scores, you'll have one fewer dimension to show that you're worthy of being admitted, compared to other students. We therefore recommend that you consider taking the SAT or ACT, and doing well.

University of Miami SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school's average score.

Average SAT: 1384

The average SAT score composite at University of Miami is a 1384 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes University of Miami Moderately Competitive for SAT test scores.

University of Miami SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 1330, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1450. In other words, a 1330 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1450 will move you up to above average .

Here's the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

University of Miami has the Score Choice policy of "Highest Section."

This is also known as "superscoring." This means that you can choose which SAT tests you want to send to the school. Of all the scores they receive, your application readers will consider your highest section scores across all SAT test dates you submit .

Click below to learn more about how superscoring critically affects your test strategy.

For example, say you submit the following 3 test scores:

Even though the highest total you scored on any one test date was 1000, University of Miami will take your highest section score from all your test dates, then combine them to form your Superscore. You can raise your composite score from 1000 to 1400 in this example.

This is important for your testing strategy. Because you can choose which tests to send in, and University of Miami forms your Superscore, you can take the SAT as many times as you want, then submit only the tests that give you the highest Superscore. Your application readers will only see that one score.

Therefore, if your SAT superscore is currently below a 1450, we strongly recommend that you consider prepping for the SAT and retaking it . You have a very good chance of raising your score, which will significantly boost your chances of getting in.

Even better, because of the Superscore, you can focus all your energy on a single section at a time. If your Reading score is lower than your other sections, prep only for the Reading section, then take the SAT. Then focus on Math for the next test, and so on. This will give you the highest Superscore possible.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

University of Miami ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, University of Miami likely doesn't have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 31

The average ACT score at University of Miami is 31. This score makes University of Miami Strongly Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 30, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 33.

Even though University of Miami likely says they have no minimum ACT requirement, if you apply with a 30 or below, you'll have a very hard time getting in, unless you have something else very impressive in your application. There are so many applicants scoring 31 and above that a 30 will look academically weak.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you're taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school's ACT requirement of 33 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you're happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

We weren't able to find the school's exact ACT policy, which most likely means that it does not Superscore. Regardless, you can choose your single best ACT score to send in to University of Miami, so you should prep until you reach our recommended target ACT score of 33.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

Free eBook: 5 Tips to 4+ Points on the ACT

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Currently, only the ACT has an optional essay section that all students can take. The SAT used to also have an optional Essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. Because of this, no school requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing section, but some schools do recommend certain students submit their results if they have them.

University of Miami considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don't need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you're applying to may require it.

Final Admissions Verdict

Because this school is extremely selective, getting a high SAT/ACT score and GPA is vital to having a chance at getting in . If you don't pass their SAT/ACT and GPA requirements, they'll likely reject you without much consideration.

To have the best shot of getting in, you should aim for the 75th percentile, with a 1450 SAT or a 33 ACT . You should also have a 3.8 GPA or higher. If your GPA is lower than this, you need to compensate with a higher SAT/ACT score.

For a school as selective as University of Miami, you'll also need to impress them with the rest of your application. We'll cover those details next.

But if you apply with a score below a 1450 SAT or a 33 ACT, you unfortunately start out with the odds against you and have a tiny chance of getting in. There are just too many students with high SAT/ACT scores and strong applications, and you need to compete against them.

Admissions Calculator

Here's our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are. Pick your test: SAT ACT

80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
50-80%: More likely than not getting in
20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

How would your chances improve with a better score?

Take your current SAT score and add 160 points (or take your ACT score and add 4 points) to the calculator above. See how much your chances improve?

At PrepScholar, we've created the leading online SAT/ACT prep program . We guarantee an improvement of 160 SAT points or 4 ACT points on your score, or your money back.

Here's a summary of why we're so much more effective than other prep programs:

PrepScholar customizes your prep to your strengths and weaknesses . You don't waste time working on areas you already know, so you get more results in less time.
We guide you through your program step-by-step so that you're never confused about what you should be studying. Focus all your time learning, not worrying about what to learn.
Our team is made of national SAT/ACT experts . PrepScholar's founders are Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers . You'll be studying using the strategies that actually worked for them.
We've gotten tremendous results with thousands of students across the country. Read about our score results and reviews from our happy customers .

There's a lot more to PrepScholar that makes it the best SAT/ACT prep program. Click to learn more about our program , or sign up for our 5-day free trial to check out PrepScholar for yourself:

Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials - high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We'll cover the exact requirements of University of Miami here.

Application Requirements Overview

Common Application Accepted
Electronic Application Available
Essay or Personal Statement Required for all freshmen
Letters of Recommendation 1
Interview Not required
Application Fee $70
Fee Waiver Available? Available
Other Notes College transcript(s) and statement of good standing from prior institution(s) recommended for some freshmen

Testing Requirements

SAT or ACT Considered if submitted
SAT Essay or ACT Writing Optional
SAT Subject Tests Optional
Scores Due in Office None

Coursework Requirements

Subject Required Years
Foreign Language
Social Studies

Deadlines and Early Admissions

Offered? Deadline Notification
Yes January 1 April 1
Yes November 1 January 31
Yes November 1, January 1 December 15, February 16

Admissions Office Information

Address: PO Box 248025 Coral Gables, FL 33124
Phone: (305) 284-2211 x2211
Fax: (305) 284-2507
Email: [email protected]

Our Expert's Notes

We did more detailed research into this school's admissions process and found the following information:

The process to be admitted to the honors program is currently being revised. If you are interested you should contact the University of Miami's admission department directly. If you want to go for a merit scholarship, the deadline is January 1. For some, applicants are considered automatically, others have separate applications which you can access here.

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in University of Miami, you'll probably be interested in these schools as well. We've divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to University of Miami.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than University of Miami. If you improve your SAT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you're competitive for University of Miami, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for University of Miami, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If University of Miami is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

If You Liked Our Advice...

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University of Miami Supplemental Essays 2023-24

Wondering how to write your University of Miami supplemental essays? For many students, writing the University of Miami essays can feel like a daunting task. Luckily, CollegeAdvisor has the expertise and resources to help you write a standout University of Miami essay.

The University of Miami is a private college located in Miami, Florida. Indeed, UMiami is one of the top colleges in Florida . To get in, you’ll need to write strong UMiami supplemental essays.

In this article, we’ll discuss which University of Miami essays are required to apply, as well as tips for how to write a standout University of Miami essay. By the end, you’ll have all the resources you need to write winning University of Miami supplemental essays.

UMiami Supplemental Essays: Quick Facts

Umiami supplemental essays quick facts.

University of Miami Acceptance Rate: 27%– U.S. News ranks University of Miami as a most selective school.
1 (250 word) essay
UMiami Application: Students must submit their University of Miami application through the Common Application . Make sure to have all of your University of Miami supplemental essays and other required application materials ready when applying.
Early Decision I and Early Action: November 1
Early Decision II and Regular Decision: January 1
University of Miami Essay Tip: Since there is only one University of Miami supplemental essay to complete, answer as thoughtfully and authentically as you can.

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 University of Miami have supplemental essays?

Yes, the University of Miami has one supplemental essay. The UMiami supplemental essays seek to gather more information about you and how your experiences or interests fit with the school’s resources and culture.

The University of Miami supplemental essays focus on community. Indeed, UMiami prides itself on its diverse campus. Located in Miami, UMiami’s student body reflects the diversity of the city it calls home. In fact, more than half of its student body identify as students of color. Additionally, nearly half of students speak a second language. Furthermore, more than two-thirds of students come from out-of-state. As we can see, UMiami attracts students from all different walks of life.

So, how does one write the University of Miami supplemental essays? We’ll share the University of Miami essay prompts and how to address them later. But first, we’ll explore how the UMiami supplemental essays fit within the broader admissions process.

University of Miami Requirements

The University of Miami, like many competitive schools, uses a holistic admissions process to build its incoming class. But what, you might wonder, is a holistic admissions process?

A holistic admissions process takes every factor into account when evaluating a student’s application. This kind of process does not simply rely on academic achievement. Instead, the process seeks to evaluate who you are as a whole student.

This means that the University of Miami supplemental essays form a critical piece of your application. They offer a fuller picture of your personality, strengths, and experiences. So, pay attention to the University of Miami essay prompts, as they can make a major difference in the admissions process.

Additionally, a holistic admissions process seeks to build an incoming class composed of students from different backgrounds. When reading UMiami supplemental essays, the admissions team aims to ensure that their students will collectively represent a cross-section of society. In this, each student adds to the strength of an incoming class through their own unique lived experiences.

Understanding the UMiami requirements

The University of Miami requirements are multifold. To apply, you will need to submit a completed Common Application, your high school transcripts, a school report completed by your counselor, a letter of recommendation, a personal statement (Common App essay), and your University of Miami supplemental essays.

Many students wonder how SAT or ACT scores factor into admissions decisions. The University of Miami is still test-optional as of 2023-24, meaning that students can opt to not submit test scores. However, this does not mean the University of Miami admissions is becoming less selective. On the contrary, the University of Miami acceptance rate has declined in recent years. In fact, choosing not to submit test scores means that other factors—like your University of Miami supplemental essays—may weigh more heavily in your application review. So, strong University of Miami supplemental essays can make a major difference in the admissions process.

University of Miami Personal Statement

In addition to writing your University of Miami supplemental essays, you’ll submit a personal statement . A personal statement is a more general introduction to who you are. On the Common Application, which you will use to apply to the University of Miami, there are seven essay topics. You’ll choose one of these prompts for your personal statement. Additionally, note that the word limit for this essay is 650 words.

We recommend choosing a personal statement prompt before writing your University of Miami supplemental essays, since you should not repeat ideas in both essays. In addition, since your personal statement goes to all the schools you apply to using the Common App, make sure to choose a topic that showcases core parts of your personal brand .

Choosing a personal statement prompt

You might be wondering, how do I select an essay prompt? The key is to choose a topic that you feel passionate about. So, look at each of the Common App prompts. Which ones connect with a story you have that reflects a key part of your identity? Moreover, how can you use these prompts to showcase who you are and what makes you unique?

If you are passionate about the topic, you’ll write a compelling essay. Additionally, don’t be afraid to try your hand at multiple prompts. Sometimes, you need to redraft an essay multiple times in order to find the right topic. Check out these sample essays to see how other students approached writing their personal statements.

Once you have any idea of what to write about in your Common Application personal statement, you can think more specifically about your University of Miami essay. Overall, your University of Miami essay should highlight a different part of your identity than your Common App essay. So, look for things UMiami should know about you that don’t come through in the rest of your application.

University of Miami Essay: Community Essay

The University of Miami supplemental essays include just one 250-word essay—the diverse community essay. This type of essay seeks to understand what makes you a unique and diverse candidate. You might recognize this kind of essay prompt from other schools.

Here is the prompt for the diverse community essay:

Community Essay Prompt

Located within one of the most dynamic cities in the world, the university of miami is a distinctive community with a variety of cultures, traditions, histories, languages, and backgrounds. the university of miami is a values-based and purpose-driven postsecondary institution that embraces diversity and inclusivity in all its forms and strives to create a culture of belonging, where every person feels valued and has an opportunity to contribute., please describe how your unique experiences, challenges overcome, or skills acquired would contribute to our distinctive university community., umiami supplemental essays – understanding the prompt.

With this prompt, we see how the University of Miami supplemental essays aim to determine not only what makes you unique, but how your life experiences will add to UMiami’s diverse community. The prompt itself also highlights what kind of community UMiami seeks to cultivate. So, strong UMiami supplemental essays will clearly address how a student will contribute to UMiami’s diverse campus culture.

Indeed, as a UMiami student, you’ll be exposed to students from all walks of life and be encouraged to value and respect your peers’ experiences. So, writing your UMiami supplemental essays can allow you to reflect on whether the school is a good fit for you.

So, think about how you would benefit from—and contribute to—a diverse campus environment like UMiami. Then, you’ll be ready to approach the University of Miami supplemental essays. In the next section, we’ll talk about how to craft strong University of Miami supplemental essays.

How to write the University of Miami supplemental essays

Writing your University of Miami supplemental essays might seem daunting. However, if you think critically about how to approach the UMiami supplemental essays, you can make the most of your supplements and increase your admissions odds.

Here are some important steps in writing your UMiami supplemental essays:

1. Reflect upon your identities

The college admissions process is all about reflection. Indeed, reflecting should be the first step in writing your University of Miami supplemental essays. In this essay prompt, UMiami highlights how it values “diversity and inclusivity in all its forms.” So, don’t get stuck on race or ethnicity, even if this is what most people think of when they hear diversity. Also, don’t feel the need to exaggerate experiences or focus on parts of your identity that aren’t meaningful to you.

Instead, think about all the life experiences that have truly shaped you and taught you valuable lessons. For example, maybe you lived in eleven different states as a child. Or perhaps, you had a learning disability when you were starting out in school. Any of these aspects of your experience are valid to highlight in your UMiami supplemental essays—as long as they are important to you.

2. Free-write

Once you have which aspect of your life experience you want to highlight, do a free write. This can help you get used to writing about your experiences. As such, it’s a great way to learn how to approach the University of Miami supplemental essays.

A free-write is when you write for a set amount of time, such as 10 minutes, and don’t stop even if your thoughts feel jumbled or pointless. The purpose of a free-write is to remove the anxiety that comes with trying to find perfect words for your University of Miami supplemental essays.

After your free-write, take a look at what you’ve written. Do any ideas stand out? You don’t need to use any information from your free-write in your UMiami supplemental essays. However, you might still find a useful idea to refine as you begin drafting.

3. Revise for key ideas

Once you have completed a free-write, review your writing to identify themes you wish to keep. For example, maybe as you moved around as a kid, you realize that you were constantly worried about making new friends. In this case, you may write your UMiami supplemental essays about how to relate to people from different backgrounds.

Once again, don’t be afraid to write multiple different University of Miami supplemental essays. The more you write about your experiences, the easier it will become.

4. Highlight examples and details

As you revise your University of Miami supplemental essays, ensure that you use specific examples and details to make your story come to life. We sometimes call this process “showing, not telling.”

For example, instead of saying “I was nervous to start at a new school,” say “I walked into class with my head low, trying to avoid locking eyes with anyone.” This detail shows us, rather than tells us, how you are feeling.

5. Have a takeaway

In the revision process for your UMiami supplemental essays, focus on sharing what you learned from your experience. Indeed, this essay prompt asks how your experiences will help you contribute to the UMiami community.

No matter what you write about, the University of Miami admissions officers want to understand how you’ve grown and changed as a person. Moreover, they want to see how your growth and experiences will allow you to enrich their community.

Tips to make your UMiami essay stand out

Each year, the University of Miami receives about 48,000 applications. As such, it is critical that your University of Miami essays stand out.

Here are a few tips to ensure you write intriguing essays :

1. Be honest

The best way to stand out in the admissions process is to be yourself. University of Miami admissions officers can see through inauthentic answers. So, instead of writing UMiami supplemental essays you think admissions officers want to read, be authentic. Think critically about what experiences make you who you are. Then, make sure these experiences shine through in your University of Miami supplemental essays.

2. Find a hook

Make sure to have a compelling start to your UMiami supplemental essays. For your University of Miami supplemental essays, a hook can take many forms. For instance, you might place the reader in the middle of a story, or you might include a surprising thought upon which the rest of your essay expands.

3. Edit for clarity and grammar

Since the University of Miami acceptance rate is low, you’ll need to demonstrate strong writing skills to stand out. As such, always have at least one to two trusted people read your essay to help you fix grammatical errors and refine your ideas. The best UMiami supplemental essays won’t be written overnight, so give yourself plenty of time to edit and redraft.

When is the University of Miami application due?

There are several UMiami application deadlines . While all of them have the same University of Miami requirements, including the same UMiami supplemental essays, they have different dates .

The first major decision you’ll want to make when applying to UMiami is whether you wish to apply early. Applying early may increase your odds of admission, as it demonstrates to UMiami that you’re serious about attending the school. Further, you can learn about your admissions status earlier when you apply by one of the two early deadlines.

There are two ways to apply early to UMiami, both of which have November 1 deadlines:

Early Decision I

Early Decision is a binding application program. By applying Early Decision, you are stating that you will definitely attend UMiami if admitted. While applying Early Decision can increase your odds of admission, it is only recommended if financial aid is not a deciding factor for you in the college process. Indeed, if you are admitted Early Decision, you are bound to accept whatever financial aid the school offers. Since UMiami has an average annual price of $30,742 , you should be comfortable with paying this amount or more when you apply Early Decision to Miami.

Early Action

Early Action is another way to apply early to the University of Miami. Applying EA may not increase your odds of admissions as much as Early Decision. However, it is also not a binding application. In this sense, it is a better option if cost is a major factor in deciding where to attend college.

Choosing an application deadline

There are many reasons why you may not wish to apply early to a college. First, you may not yet be sure whether you want to attend, which makes applying ED difficult. Secondly, you might wish to have more time to work on your University of Miami supplemental essays or boost your GPA by raising your grades in the fall of your senior year.

If you wish to apply by the regular deadlines for Miami, you have two options. Both application deadlines are January 1:

Early Decision II

Though this deadline is called Early Decision II, it is not actually an early deadline. In fact, you have till January 1 to apply Early Decision II. However, like Early Decision I, your acceptance to UMiami is binding if you apply Early Decision II. But, if UMiami is still your top choice by the time January 1 approaches, you may wish to apply Early Decision II to increase your odds of admission.

Regular Decision

Regular Decision is a standard way of applying that does not confer any of the advantages or restrictions of the early deadlines. However, if UMiami is not a top choice for you, then applying Regular Decision may make the most sense.

Regardless of which deadline you choose, your application must be clear and compelling. Moreover, it should demonstrate why you are an ideal student for the school to admit. Well-crafted University of Miami supplemental essays form a critical part of any strong application.

University of Miami Supplemental Essays – 5 Takeaways

By now, we hope it’s clear how important your UMiami supplemental essays are in your application.

Here are five key takeaways as you prepare to write your University of Miami supplemental essays:

1. Show your authentic self

Whether you are writing your UMiami supplemental essays or putting together your activities list, showcase what makes you unique. From the University of Miami essay prompts, we can tell that the school values individuality and diversity. Don’t fall into the trap of trying to sound impressive, as this will hinder the authenticity of your application. Instead, be honest about why you belong at UMiami.

2. Learn about the school

Before you write your UMiami supplemental essays, ensure that you know a lot about the institution. This will help you craft an application that showcases how your strengths align with UMiami’s offerings. Visit the school, follow their social media, and read the University blog to stay on top of admissions news .

3. Develop an application strategy

As you prepare your application to UMiami, you must decide whether applying early to the school makes sense. If you truly wish to attend this well-regarded school, you’ll want to take whatever steps are possible to increase your odds of admission. Still, be sure that you’ve considered financial aid implications if you decide to apply early. In addition, your application strategy should include developing a personal brand, writing strong UMiami supplemental essays, and getting recommendation letters that highlight your academic and personal strengths.

4. Start early

Even if you don’t apply early to UMiami, you should start preparing for the application process well before the deadline. The earlier you start, the better. With more time, you’ll be able to do deeper research, spend longer on your UMiami supplemental essays, and reach out to the admissions office if you have questions.

5. Get help

While the college admissions process can be overwhelming, you’re never alone. Consider all the people in your community who can help you, from family and friends to teachers and guidance counselors. If you want personalized support, our team at CollegeAdvisor.com is here to help. Our experts will guide you through every aspect of the admissions process, from completing the Common App to crafting your UMiami supplemental essays to applying for scholarships.

In this article, we reviewed how to write your University of Miami supplemental essays. We took you through the University of Miami essay prompts and offered tips for making your University of Miami essay stand out. With thoughtful reflection and careful writing, you’ll surely put together a University of Miami essay that stands out from the rest. Good luck!

This essay guide was written by Senior Advisor Courtney Ng . 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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Find out about requirements, fees, and deadlines

University of Miami employs a holistic review process. First-year applicants must submit the Common Application, which includes a personal statement, supplemental essay, and a section for detailing extracurricular activities. These portions of the application are a chance to show us who you are, what you have devoted your time to during high school, and what you will add to our dynamic campus community. Applicants must also submit a School Report form, high school transcript, and one letter of recommendation. There may be additional requirements for special programs, such as Architecture, Music, Theatre Arts B.F.A., and Health Professions Mentoring (HPM). If you completed secondary school and/or attended University outside of the United States, applicants are required to submit a Financial Certification Form. Non-native English speakers are required to submit TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo test scores unless they meet one of our waivers. admissions.miami.edu/i-eval

For 2024, the University of Miami is test optional. Applicants who choose not to submit ACT/SAT test scores will not be at a disadvantage for admission or merit-based scholarships.

Transfer applicants should apply by the April 1 priority deadline for entry in the fall semester or the November 1 priority deadline for entry in the spring. Applications and/or supporting documents received after the stated priority deadlines will be reviewed on a space available basis. Students submit the Common Application, as well as their college transcripts and a College Report from every U.S. postsecondary institution attended. There may be additional requirements for special programs, such as Architecture, Music, Theatre Arts B.F.A., and Health Professions Mentoring (HPM). If you completed secondary school and/or attended University outside of the United States, applicants are required to submit a Financial Certification Form. Non-native English speakers are required to submit TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo test scores unless they meet one of our waivers. admissions.miami.edu/i-eval

For 2024, if you have completed fewer than 30 postsecondary credits (not including dual enrollment/concurrent enrollment courses) you can choose whether you submit ACT/SAT test scores. admissions.miami.edu/testoptional

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University of Miami 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Early Action/Decision: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 1

You Have:

University of Miami 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 1 essay of 250 words

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Diversity

Located within one of the most dynamic cities in the world, the University of Miami is a distinctive community with a variety of cultures, traditions, histories, languages, and backgrounds. The University of Miami is a values-based and purpose-driven postsecondary institution that embraces diversity and inclusivity in all its forms and strives to create a culture of belonging, where every person feels valued and has an opportunity to contribute.

Please describe how your unique experiences, challenges overcome, or skills acquired would contribute to our distinctive university community..

Odds are that this isn’t the first “ diversity ” essay prompt you’ve come across this year—even if the prompt doesn’t explicitly use the word. If it is, however, please read on. UMiami wants to accept students from a range of backgrounds who will contribute to a “distinctive” University community, so tell admissions about what makes you you and how you will be a meaningful addition to the UMiami 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 you were raised on a farm and have a very special relationship to all living things (plants, animals, people, etc.) around you. What do you hope to share with others about your lived experience? How will you incorporate this element of your identity into your college experience? Show admissions that you’re eager to make your mark in their community. Bonus points if you can reference a specific component of the UMiami experience (think clubs, classes, volunteer opportunities, etc.) to demonstrate interest and fit.

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First-Year Student Application Requirements

Thank you for considering Miami University as you prepare to embark on one of the most exciting and important times of your life — your college experience. We are here to help you at every step in your journey through the admission process.

Everything You Need to Know

Start your application.

To apply as a first-year college student, you will need:

The Common Application or The Coalition Application
High school transcripts (can be unofficial at the time of application).
Select "Miami Fee Waiver" on the application to apply for free by Nov. 1.
At least one recommendation from a school counselor or academic teacher.
Optional ACT or SAT test scores. See our test-optional FAQs .
Portfolio, audition, or video for some majors in the College of Creative Arts (CCA) .
Confirmation of interest in the Miami Honors College and Presidential Fellows Program on your admission application.

After You've Applied

Once you have submitted your application, make sure you do the following:

Applicant emails begin sending in late August, after which new applicants should receive this message within 24 hours.
Use your Applicant Status Page to monitor your application checklist and other important messages to confirm Miami has received all materials that are required to complete your application.
On your scheduled admission decision release date, check your status page for a digital copy of your admission decision letter.
Research costs, scholarships, and financial aid .

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Contact admission and aid, undergraduate admission.

301 S. Campus Ave., Oxford, OH 45056-3434 513-529-2531 [email protected] Meet the Staff

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MS Fall 2024 Admissions

Prospective MS Students

The College of Engineering (CoE) offers MS Merit Tuition Waivers to admitted applicants who demonstrated exemplary achievements. These Merit Tuition Waivers offer up to a maximum 30% of direct tuition costs. We do not offer research/teaching assistantships or fellowships for MS studies. Applicants who wish to be considered for a MS Merit Tuition Waiver must indicate so on the application for admission.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must submit:

Excellent performance in all coursework and certificate programs (traditionally cumulative GPA > 3.0)
Comprehensive letters of recommendation (3 required)
Acceptable scores on TOEFL or ILETS exams (English proficiency exams for international students only)

Important Notice: the GRE is no longer required for MS applicants .

A BS degree in engineering is usually required for admission into an MS program. We will also consider students who do not have an engineering degree but may ask them to take pre-requisite coursework to meet our admission requirements.

Application Deadlines

Fall 2024 – Priority Deadline, August 1. (Applications received after the priority deadline will be reviewed on a space-available basis)
International applicants are highly encouraged to submit their completed applications as early as possible in order to ensure ample time for the student visa process if accepted for admission

Additional Instructions For International Students Only

International students are required to submit additional information about English proficiency, transcript evaluation and visa requirements .

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The Department of Biomedical Engineering offers programs leading to the Master of Science (thesis or non-thesis option) and Doctor of Philosophy degrees.

The Department of Biomedical Engineering offers a dual-degree program that culminates with students receiving both Bachelor of Science and Master of Science (BS/MS) in Biomedical Engineering concurrently. This program is available only to qualified students enrolled in the undergraduate program in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Miami. This program is intended to give qualified Biomedical Engineering students the opportunity to acquire both a baccalaureate degree (BSBE) and a Master of Science (MSBE) degree in five years rather than the 4 plus 2 years (approximately) that is traditionally expected. The two degrees are awarded simultaneously when the combined requirements have been met for both degrees.

Juniors enrolled in BME who have maintained at least a 3.0 CGPA have the option to apply for admission to the combined BS-MS in Biomedical Engineering program.
Those who are accepted into this accelerated program must maintain at least a 3.0 CGPA and a minimum of a 3.0 GPA for the final 30 credit hours to meet the requirements of the Graduate School.
Up to 6 credit hours of engineering electives earned during the fourth year can be counted toward the 30 credit hours required for the MS degree. If their schedule allows, students may be able to complete an additional 6 credits of graduate classes during their fourth year.
Students must be registered for a minimum of 12 undergraduate credit hours per semester in their fourth year.
Students can register for a maximum of 6 graduate credit hours in each semester of their fourth year.
If a student needs to withdraw from the BS/MS BME program then all the requirements for the BS degree must be completed for graduation with the BS BME degree.

Admission Requirements

The dual BS/MS program is available only to qualified undergraduate students enrolled in the Department of Biomedical Engineering. Typically, students must have undergraduate student status and a cumulative G.P.A. of at least 3.0 at the time of application.

Qualified students must apply prior to the beginning of final exams in the second semester of their junior year. Students are strongly advised to apply to the BS/MS program as early as possible in their junior year to facilitate academic advising and course selection in the second semester of their junior year. Before submitting an application, interested students should discuss the program and the possibility of entering the program with an academic advisor.

Curriculum Guidelines

In the dual-degree BS/MS program in the Department of Biomedical Engineering, the first four years of the curriculum are altered as follows:

In the senior year, up to two 3-credit Undergraduate Engineering Electives can be replaced with 3-credit Graduate Engineering Electives
If their schedule allows, students may be able to register for an additional 6 credits of graduate courses in the senior year.

In the fifth year, BS/MS students complete their graduate course requirements, including completion of the MS Project ( BME 707 and BME 708 ). Students in the BS/MS program must also complete exactly two physiology courses chosen from BME 601 , BME 602 , BME 603 as part of their graduate requirements.

Graduate Engineering Electives taken in the senior year must be chosen from dual-enrollment engineering course offerings, with the approval of their academic advisor. The credits of Graduate Engineering Electives completed in the fourth year are counted toward the 30 credits required for the MS degree.

Students admitted in the dual degree BS/MS program can take a maximum of six (6) graduate credits per semester in their senior year, for a maximum of twelve (12) graduate credits per year, without incurring additional costs if they are full-time undergraduate students during this period. Students should register for courses towards their graduate degree as "G" credits and not as "U" credits. These registrations must be completed prior to taking courses. Retroactive add/drops will not be processed.

To register for graduate credits during their senior year, students must be in senior status and must complete and submit the Graduate School’s Application for Undergraduates to Take Graduate Coursework form. This form must accompany the Add/Drop and/or Course Request form to ensure that students are registered with the correct registration status.

In the Senior year, students must be registered for a minimum of 12 undergraduate credits each semester to maintain full-time status as an undergraduate student. After completing the senior year, students must register as graduate students.

Graduation Requirements

Students accepted into the dual degree program must maintain at least a 3.0 Cumulative GPA, and meet all other pertinent Graduate School requirements, including a minimum of 3.0 GPA in the credits applied toward the MS degree.

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Undergraduate Academic Programs >
Media Scoring and Production (MSP) >
B.M. in Media Scoring and Production
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The Bachelor of Music in Media Scoring and Production (MSP) is a program designed to provide the highest level of preparation for qualified composers and producers for media. Successful students will complete diverse writing (composing, scoring, producing) assignments, as well as develop technical and practical skills in the recording studio. In addition, students will increase their knowledge of current trends in the music industry.

Prospective students should furnish evidence of outstanding writing and production creativity, as well as basic digital audio workstation (DAW) and music notation skills.

Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.70 to remain in the MSP Program.

Advanced Writing and Communication Skills

All students are required to successfully complete 3 Advanced Writing and Communication Skills (AWC) courses. Student degree requirements will include courses that meet the desired communication outcomes in evaluated and revised writing, speaking, stage presence, and audience engagement. All music students will successfully complete:

1. MCY 141 Musical Trends and Traditions, which will include substantial evaluated and revised writing components (MSP Majors will take this or another equivalent course depending on their area of emphasis)

2. MCY XXX (200 level or higher), which will include discipline specific communication skills.

3. MSP 445 Senior Project/Portfolio/Business Plan, This course is the capstone for both the MSP programs. Students will develop and compile a portfolio of creative works that showcase their individual artistry, including but not limited to recordings, videos, songs, scores, and/or other applicable media elements.

There will be at least 2 specific assessments in each Advanced Communication Skills course for communications or writing equivalent to 4000 words, evaluated and revised.

Curriculum Requirements

EMC core courses require a grade of “C” or higher. Lessons require a grade of "B" or higher.

MSP majors with a Media Writing emphasis are strongly encouraged to add a minor in Music Composition with the approval of the MTC Department Chair: http://bulletin.miami.edu/undergraduate-academic-programs/music/music-theory-composition/music-composition-minor/

*Students who wish to pursue a minor in Music Composition must declare their intentions before the first semester. Students must follow the specific plan of study provided for MSPD majors with Composition minor to ensure degree completion, and should consult with their academic advisor before beginning coursework.

Suggested Plan of Study: MSP Major (Media Scoring Emphasis)

suggested plan of study: msp major (production emphasis), suggested plan of study: msp major (media scoring emphasis), w minor in music composition.

MSP majors with a Media Scoring emphasis are strongly encouraged to add a minor in Music Composition with the approval of the MTC Department Chair: http://bulletin.miami.edu/undergraduate-academic-programs/music/music-theory-composition/music-composition-minor/

The Media Scoring & Production (MSP) degree program is designed to prepare undergraduate students for the many issues facing today’s commercial music writers and producers. In this specialized program, successful students complete diverse compositional assignments, develop technical and practical skills in the recording studio, and acquire an understanding of the music industry.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students will demonstrate the ability to plan, prepare, produce, and execute original contemporary commercial music and arrangements.
Students will demonstrate the ability to compose, score, orchestrate, record, and edit, original music for visual media such as film, video, and games.
Students will demonstrate the ability to produce, record, edit, and prepare for distribution original contemporary/commercial music and arrangements.
Students, in conjunction with an advisor, will construct a plan to complete an area of emphasis in either Media Writing or Production.

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‘Insane’ Heat Has Been Scorching Miami. It’s Not Even June.

The hottest May on record for the city has experts worried about the summer — and hurricane season — to come.

A man wearing a red shirt that says “Excessive Heat Alert” on the back crosses an empty street, carrying a pack of water bottles in his left hand to distribute to the homeless. Tents are seen on the sidewalk across the street.

By Patricia Mazzei

Reporting from Miami

Meteorologists in Miami, it is fair to say, are accustomed to drama: sunny-day flooding , severe rainstorms , strong hurricanes .

So it is telling — and scary — that they seem at a loss for words to describe the extreme heat that the city experienced over the past few days, a full month ahead of summer.

“It’s completely crazy, what just happened,” Brian McNoldy, a senior research scientist at the University of Miami, said.

“It’s insane,” said John Morales, a meteorologist for ClimaData, a private weather forecasting and consulting firm, and a hurricane specialist at WTVJ-TV, the NBC station in Miami. “Not only is it insane, it is also dangerous.”

They were talking about the heat index, a measure of how hot it really feels outside, taking into account humidity along with temperature. The heat index reached 112 degrees on both Saturday and Sunday, breaking the previous daily record by an astonishing 11 degrees.

Sunday’s high of 96 degrees was also record-breaking, Mr. McNoldy said. Saturday’s high of 94 was one degree shy of that day’s record. All of this in May, normally a sufferable month in Miami compared with the three or four that follow.

“Even if they happened at what is normally the most uncomfortable part of the year,” Mr. McNoldy said, referring to the first two weeks of August, “those days would have been extraordinary.”

Last year was the hottest in Florida since 1985, with coastal waters reaching 90 degrees , bleaching coral and possibly contributing to the mysterious deaths of endangered sawfish. This year, forecasters expect an exceptionally high number of hurricanes , in part because the Atlantic Ocean has remained abnormally warm.

Increasingly extreme weather, including stronger hurricanes and worsening floods, have led to the withdrawal of major insurers from the state and to some of the highest insurance premiums in the country.

Now, extreme heat appears to be reshaping shoulder seasons, too. The heat index in Key West, about 160 miles south of Miami, reached 115 degrees on May 15, according to Mr. McNoldy, shattering the previous record for the day by 17 degrees.

South Florida is warm and humid much of the year, but only rarely does (or did) the air temperature reach the mid-90s. What turns the region’s heat dangerous is when high temperatures combine with very high humidity, which can make it feel oppressively hot.

That is how it went over the weekend. Stepping outdoors felt like walking into a broiler, even well into the night. Taking three showers a day was not out of the question. On Sunday, people packed a beach in Key Biscayne , a barrier island just east of Miami, where the water felt more like deep summer than late spring.

Last week Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican who has backed programs to make communities more resilient to extreme weather, signed legislation deleting many mentions of climate change from Florida policy — in one of the states most vulnerable to climate change .

On Saturday, Steve MacLaughlin, a meteorologist for WTVJ, urged viewers to weigh elected leaders’ decisions while experiencing punishing temperatures.

“The entire world is looking to Florida to lead in climate change, and our government is saying that climate change is no longer the priority it once was,” he said.

“Please keep in mind the most powerful climate change solution is the one you already have in the palm of your hands: the right to vote,” Mr. MacLaughlin added. “We will never tell you who to vote for, but we will tell you this: We implore you to please do your research and know that there are candidates that believe in climate change, and that there are solutions — and there are candidates that don’t.”

Last month, Mr. DeSantis enacted a law banning local governments from requiring employers to provide workers with heat protections, after Miami-Dade County came close to adopting the nation’s strictest requirements for providing outdoor workers with water, rest and shade.

Esteban Wood, the policy director for WeCount, which represents farmworkers, plant nursery workers and construction workers in Miami-Dade County and pushed for the protections, said that the spring is the peak season for tropical plant horticulture and did not typically coincide with extreme heat.

“Now, it does,” he said. “We are seeing temperatures that these workers have never seen in their lives.”

By Tuesday afternoon, thunderstorms began rolling across Miami. In some places, it hailed.

Patricia Mazzei is the lead reporter for The Times in Miami, covering Florida and Puerto Rico. More about Patricia Mazzei

Explore Our Weather Coverage

Extreme Weather Maps: Track the possibility of extreme weather in the places that are important to you .

Heat Safety: Heat waves are becoming increasingly common across the world. Here is how to keep yourself and your loved ones cool, hydrated and healthy .

Tornado Alerts: A tornado warning demands instant action. Here’s what to do if one comes your wa y.

Flash Flooding: Fast rising water can be deadly. Here’s what to do if you’re caught off guard , and how to prepare for a future flooding event.

Evacuating Pets: When disaster strikes, household pets’ lives are among the most vulnerable. You can avoid the worst by planning ahead .

Climate Change: What’s causing global warming? How can we fix it? Our F.A.Q. tackles your climate questions big and small .

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Texas Law Home
Texas Law News

Published May 24, 2024 By: Jeremy Simon

From the Tonight Show to Texas Law Review

Sydney Jean Gottfried applied for Texas Law while working in late night TV in New York City, and she’s brought her background and talents to Austin.

Gottfried grew up in Richmond, Virginia, earned a bachelor’s degree in government from Georgetown University, and then stayed in Washington, D.C. to work for NBC News. In that role, she wrote scripts based on NBC News reporting for iHeartRadio stations nationwide.

She then moved to New York City, where she was a monologue writers’ assistant and an associate producer for “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.”

During her work on an episode of The Tonight Show, Gottfried discovered the appeal of Austin and The University of Texas at Austin and enrolled at Texas Law in August 2022. She currently serves as editor-in-chief of the Texas Law Review, works as a research assistant for the Bech-Loughlin First Amendment Center, and is enrolled in Texas Law’s Supreme Court Clinic. As a 2L, Gottfried served on the board of OUTLaw, the law school’s LGBTQ+ affinity group, and worked as a teaching assistant for 1L Property. She was also recently inducted into the Friar Society , the oldest honors society at The University of Texas at Austin with “a deep-rooted commitment to philanthropy.”

This spring, Gottfried was a contributor to Texas Law Magazine , the school’s new biannual publication for alumni, interviewing Diane Brayton ’96 , a vice president and chief legal officer of The New York Times.

We recently spoke to Gottfried about the career that led her to Texas Law, her leadership roles at the school, and what’s next on her fascinating professional journey.

The Tonight Show! What was that like?

Amazing! The Tonight Show is stacked with talented and creative individuals and I was grateful to get to work with them on so many incredible projects. It was hard and sometimes stressful, but very exciting to watch the segment you worked on go to air.

I started out with the monologue team, where I conducted news research and fact-checked content for the show. This was during the Trump presidency, when all of late night became a bit more newsy and political. Having been a government major who worked in news, I couldn’t believe I was actually getting paid to read newspapers and watch the news all day. Then I was promoted to associate producer and worked on topical comedy and signature bits for the show like “Hashtags” and “Thank You Notes.” I loved learning more about comedy from the writers on the show. I’d like to think the experience made me funnier. My classmates can be the judge.

Was law school always the plan after that?

No, what really made me decide to go to law school was all the cable news I watched as a writer’s assistant. I noticed that many of the sharp journalists and political panelists I admired had something in common—they were lawyers. When I made that connection, the wheels started turning.

Most people I knew thought I was crazy. Who leaves late-night TV to go to law school? I didn’t necessarily want to leave media, I just wanted to learn more about government and the law. My hope is to use my law degree in a media setting at some point in the future.

How did you choose Texas Law?

In 2019, the show came to UT. I did tons of research on UT and Austin to help the writers and producers put together the episode. Compared to New York, Austin seemed charming and different, and I remember thinking it looked like a fabulous place to be a student. When I decided to apply to law school, I remembered what a good time everyone had making the show and added Texas Law to my list.

Sure enough, when I came for admitted students day, I was impressed by how friendly everybody was—at the law school and around the city. It seemed like a place where I could enjoy being a law student, and also a 20-something.

And how has that turned out?

Even better than I hoped. I feel lucky to be challenged and learn new things every single day. Texas Law is a very supportive community and has a lot to offer. I feel grateful for the friends and mentors I’ve made, who have made my time as a student so enjoyable and have exposed me to new experiences and ideas.

After my 1L year, I had the chance to work for the Media Freedom and Information Access Clinic at Yale Law School. I worked on First Amendment and Freedom of Information Act litigation and gained a deeper appreciation for the essential role that free speech and a free press play in society. It was great to combine law and media and to realize that I’m interested in press freedom work specifically.

That’s great to hear. Turning to your numerous roles at Texas Law, you’re the editor in chief of the Texas Law Review . What’s that like?

Busy! I get to work with professors from all over the country and an excellent editorial board of fellow students to publish cutting-edge legal scholarship. Every day presents new challenges and new opportunities. One day we’re planning a symposium; The next we’re proofing drafts to make sure they’re just right.

We just finished the final Issue of Volume 102 with an excellent Symposium issue on Mercy, organized by Professors Lee Kovarsky and Jennifer Laurin . From here, we’ll jump straight into Volume 103. At this point, we have selected most of what we publish across our seven issues. Spoiler alert: it rocks!

Has your TV work experience informed your editorship at the Law Review?

My pitch for being EIC was that I thought producing late-night TV alongside a large team on a tight deadline was going to be similar to editing a law review and getting it out on time. Balancing quality and timeliness is not always easy. Having experience with that equation has been helpful.

There are more similarities between a law review and a television show than you might expect. On television, you’re making content that showcases the talent. At TLR , the scholarship we publish ultimately belongs to the scholars who wrote the pieces. We try to make their work as thorough and presentable at possible, but authors get to call the final shots.

The workflow of both entities is also similar. On television, you work with a variety of production departments to produce individual elements that come together to form a cohesive whole. The same is true at TLR. Our Articles, Notes, and Featured Content teams all work on different essays that become a single issue. The Managing Editor and I complete final edits on every piece to maintain consistency.

As EIC, I try to keep the sense of humor I gained in late night. Challenges certainly come up, but it helps to keep them in perspective.

Separate from the Texas Law Review, you’ve also planned two events this spring semester with the Bech-Loughlin First Amendment Center .

Oh, yes! The first was on New York Times v. Sullivan’s actual malice standard and the current state of defamation law. We had Justin Nelson from Susman Godfrey, who recently represented Dominion Voting Systems in the blockbuster defamation suit against Fox News; Lyrissa Lidsky ‘93, who is a professor at the University of Florida studying defamation and the First Amendment; and David McCraw, who is the lead newsroom lawyer for the New York Times. Amy Sanders, who is a professor at the Moody College of Communication and teaches journalism, moderated the event. It was great. There are huge defamation settlements coming out right now and calls to overturn the actual malice standard. The panel discussed whether that actually seemed likely to happen.

I also moderated a panel on drag bans and the First Amendment that was co-sponsored by OUTLaw. We had Professor Caroline Corbin from the University of Miami, who studies the First Amendment and equality issues. We also had Chloe Kempf ’21, who works with the Texas ACLU and was part of the team that challenged SB 12—the Texas drag ban that was struck down on First Amendment grounds. She was joined by drag performer Brigitte Bandit, who is one of the plaintiffs that challenged the law.

You’re an OUTLaw board member, too, right?

Yes. This year I served as co-director of social events with Luca Azzariti, another 2L. We recently hosted a mixer with queer affinity groups from the business and medical schools. My partner is an MBA student at McCombs, so that was a treat.

You also led the efforts on requesting a new course?

OUTLaw’s President, Adrienne Allen ’24, and I requested a course that would cover LGBTQ+ legal topics. We worked with Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Susan Morse and it came together as Emerging Issues in Gender Identity, Sexuality, and the Law.

This spring it was a one-credit weekend class, but it’s coming back in fall 2024 as a two-credit class. It was co-taught by Shelley Skeen, who’s the Southern Regional Director for Lambda Legal, and Maddy Dwertman ‘14, who’s built a pretty significant pro bono practice at Baker Botts centered on immigration and LGBTQ+ rights.

We learned about legal issues facing the queer community in Texas. Both faculty members have been involved in significant litigation around those issues and were able to share their experiences in court. The class ended with an advocacy exercise where we argued against one another. It was fun to see my classmates in action. They’re going to be great lawyers.

After the semester ends, what’s next? And following graduation?

This summer, I will be at Williams & Connolly in Washington, D.C. I was drawn to the firm for its First Amendment and appellate litigation practice areas. Lisa Blatt ’89 chairs Williams & Connolly’s Supreme Court and appellate litigation practice—she was also on the editorial board of Volume 67 of the Texas Law Review! Her work at the firm definitely drew me to apply.

After graduation, I hope to clerk. Long term, I’d like to pursue media law opportunities. My experience in the Supreme Court Clinic has also piqued my interest in appellate litigation and Supreme Court work. I enjoyed researching new areas of law, thinking about how the law should work, and figuring out how to pitch that theory to the Court.

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Curriculum Guidelines. In the dual-degree BS/MS program in the Department of Biomedical Engineering, the first four years of the curriculum are altered as follows: In the senior year, up to two 3-credit Undergraduate Engineering Electives can be replaced with 3-credit Graduate Engineering Electives. If their schedule allows, students may be ...
MS in Medical Physics < University of Miami
Students in the Medical Physics program must complete Human Physiology for Engineers ( BME 602) and one of the remaining two courses from the human physiology ( BME 601 or BME 603) course series, and 23-credits in the core curriculum in the area of medical physics. The topic of the non-thesis MS project ( BME 707 / BME 708 ), or MS thesis must ...
B.M. in Media Scoring and Production < University of Miami
The Bachelor of Music in Media Scoring and Production (MSP) is a program designed to provide the highest level of preparation for qualified composers and producers for media. Successful students will complete diverse writing (composing, scoring, producing) assignments, as well as develop technical and practical skills in the recording studio.
Miami University's 2023-24 Essay Prompts
Option 7. 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. Read our essay guide to get started. Submit your essay for free peer review to refine and perfect it.
Extreme Heat Scorches Miami in May, Worrying Experts About Summer
The heat index in Key West, about 160 miles south of Miami, reached 115 degrees on May 15, according to Mr. McNoldy, shattering the previous record for the day by 17 degrees. South Florida is warm ...
From the Tonight Show to Texas Law Review
During her work on an episode of The Tonight Show, Gottfried discovered the appeal of Austin and The University of Texas at Austin and enrolled at Texas Law in August 2022. She currently serves as editor-in-chief of the Texas Law Review, works as a research assistant for the Bech-Loughlin First Amendment Center, and is enrolled in Texas Law's ...

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