Point Cap: 25 points cap each month (excluding PIQs & College Bound Projects)
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This page will be updated on the first day of every month from October to March with new prompts.
Submit all projects to rosemeadgateprojects2@gmail.com
Each project is worth up to 10 points (8 points for completion and 0-2 points for effort).
Remember to follow Academic Integrity rules and use your own creativity and originality.
We look forward to seeing your submissions and are excited to see your academic, artistic, and creative abilities!
College Bound Projects are worth up to 8 points (5 points for doing the project + 0-3 points for effort).
UC Personal Insight Questions
- For every month, you are allowed to write one of the 8 UC Personal Insight Questions.
- It will be graded according to the monthly project point system.
- You may not reuse the same question for other months.
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Decorated December
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Academic: As the holiday approaches, the Christmas tree is lit, and under it are all the presents given by family and friends. But as you sit near the fireplace, you can’t seem to figure out how Christmas started. Christmas is a holiday where people get together to exchange gifts, enjoy meals, and decorate homes, which typically takes place on December 25th. Write an essay about the history of Christmas. How did Christmas come to be the holiday that we know today, and where did it originate? (Minimum: 1 page)
Creative: On Christmas Day, many families like to huddle together and watch a Christmas movie. Whether it is Home Alone, Polar Express, or The Grinch, these movies share a theme of bringing that Christmas sense of joy to those who watch them. Create your own Christmas movie through a script, mini video, or any method to show your Christmas spirit! 😀
Artistic: In December, there are various holidays celebrated besides Christmas, such as Yule and Hanukkah. These holidays come from a wide variety of rich cultures, and they have their own set of traditions and customs. Draw a picture of what holiday you celebrate, and make sure to include what traditions you celebrate!
College-bound: College admissions have been getting more competitive as the year passes. What landed an applicant into a prestigious university may not work in today’s world. Similarly, another change can be seen recently, in how standardized testing has dropped in UC schools and Cal States, but it has also resurfaced in top Ivy League schools. Thus, many students are left to wonder whether or not they should take these standardized tests. Create an essay that argues your stance about whether students should take standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, and if so, when they should start preparing. (Minimum: 1 page)
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Nostalgia November
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Academic: November is the month of crisp air, with a warm and cool breeze swiftly awaiting one's doorstep. The trees, with vibrant mixes of brown and yellow, mark the season of gratitude and reflection—the origin of Thanksgiving. To give and thank, where families gather and celebrate worldwide, is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. Tracing back to the origins of the harvest celebration of the Pilgrims. Write an essay tracing back to one of your favorite memories of nostalgia from any November! Tie this moment to the origins of Thanksgiving. (Minimum 1 page)
Creative: Fragile, crimson leaves, with hints of yellow and brown, flutter through the breezy wisp of wind, gently brushing by your skin. Isn’t that just so wonderful? November brings a sense of belonging and nostalgia. Thus, we often gather around to celebrate our family traditions and history during this time of the month. Write a letter about giving back. (Minimum 1 page)
Artistic: This season displays changes in nature, holidays, and symbols all around. From the food to the falling leaves, a hint of November lingers amongst all. Consider the colorful themes or times associated with November and create a drawing that represents a moment in the past, during this nostalgic time filled with nature.
College-bound: During the application process, many prompts ask students to reflect upon personal growth and thankfulness. Write a 1-page personal statement where you reflect on a moment or experience you are grateful for. How did it change your perspective? How did it challenge you in a way?
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Ominous October
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Academic:
October is often marked with eerie vibes and early darkness as it frequently emerges between the boundaries of the natural and supernatural from the unknown. From scary, monstrous tales to rumors of the undead, October is often portrayed as an “ominous” month. Examine how the month of October has been represented as ominous in literature, history, or cultural practices. Add specific examples to support your claim on its haunting significance.
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Creative:
The final warm and sticky breath of summer fades away as October settles in with its crisp and chilly air, and eeriness begins to stir in the shadows. The days will begin to fall shorter, and nights will be colder. People will begin to unleash tales and rumors of the undead and monstrous beings, revealing the dark side of October as kids enter neighborhoods to obtain free candy. Tell the tale of your first trick-or-treat. Was the heist successful? What did you dress as? Use vivid detail to the best of your ability to bring out your ominous October to life.
Artistic:
October unfolds with brittle leaves, an eerie fog, and somber skies as it shifts the world into decay. Create a visual piece that portrays the essence of October. Use light, coloring, and unfamiliar tones to explore themes such as change and fear. Your piece should evoke the beautiful yet haunting experience that makes October a month unlike others.
College-bound:
As the school year shifts, many students find themselves with an unexpected shift; from the excitement of a fresh year start to pressures of midterms, decisions about the future, and future deadlines. During this time of year, it is characterized by academic intensity and personal doubts, marking an ominous feeling that is seen as symbolic and real. Write an essay exploring the turning points in the college experience from emotions and intellect. Use examples from your own experience in high school life that you struggled with that you believe will transfer to college life.