essay university of miami

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First-Year Admission Requirements

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1. Complete the Common 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, including registering for standardized tests.

If applying for Spring or Fall 2024, you will be required to submit a supplemental essay of 250 words.

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, students will be asked to respond to one of seven prompts in a personal statement of 650 words or less. 

These portions of the Common Application give you the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to develop your thoughts, to communicate them clearly, and to write them concisely conveying your unique voice. Please include a list of your extracurricular activities; these activities will be evaluated as part of the admission process.

2. Send Official High School Transcripts

If you attended high school in the United States, s ubmit your   official   high school transcripts directly from your high school. A school official may submit them electronically via the Common Application, Slate.org, SCOIR, or Parchment. They can also be emailed directly from your school official to [email protected] .

If electronic submission is not possible, these documents can be mailed to one of the following addresses:

Mailing Address University of Miami Office of Undergraduate Admission P.O. 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   

If you attended a secondary school outside of the United States, please refer to the International Evaluation Requirements page .

If you are a homeschooled applicant, please refer to the Homeschool Transcript Requirements page .

3. Submitting Test Scores

No change announced from current test optional policy for students who are applying for admission for the Spring or Fall 2024 term.

Students who choose to submit an ACT and/or SAT score may:

• Request that official scores be sent to the University directly from the testing agency.
• Self-report their scores on the Common Application. You will not need to Superscore your own results or recalculate your scores. Simply enter your scores exactly as you receive them. Students self-reporting scores will be required to submit official score reports only if they are admitted and choose to enroll.

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. 

Architecture applicants not submitting test scores must instead submit a portfolio. All Music applicants complete an audition as part of the evaluation process.

Note:  You may update your decision to have your application reviewed with or without test scores even after you have submitted your application. Early Decision I and Early Action applicants have until November 15, while Early Decision II and Regular Decision applicants have until January 15 to update their file. 

Here are some examples of testing-specific updates applicants can make:

• Submit test scores for the Admission Committee’s consideration
• Update your test scores
• Update your choice to be test optional or not

To make these and other changes, applicants must complete the  Test Score Updates  form in the  Applicant Portal .

Submit your application by the stated deadline: November 1 for Early Decision I and Early Action or January 1 for Early Decision II and Regular Decision. The deadline for opting in or out of having your test scores considered as part of your application and for self-reporting your test scores is November 15 for Early Decision I and Early Action, and January 15 for Early Decision II and Regular Decision.

Test Codes for UM:

• TOEFL Code: C730
• IELTS Code: 4861
• ACT Code: 0760 
• SAT Code: 5815
• DET Code: select “University of Miami Undergraduate Admissions” from the options

4. Complete the School Report

The School Report should be completed by your high school guidance counselor and can be found on the  Common Application . It is often submitted along with your high school transcript and information about your high school. 

5. Submit a Letter of Recommendation

You are required to submit one letter of recommendation/evaluation, which can be from either a school counselor or a teacher. The most expedient way to submit your letter electronically is through the Common Application, Slate.org, Scoir, or Parchment.

6. Additional Requirements for Special Programs

• Bachelor of Architecture - Portfolio required if not submitting ACT/SAT scores
• Frost School of Music* - Supplemental Application, Prescreen, and Audition Required  
• Theatre Arts B.F.A.*   - Supplemental application and audition required

*Not available for Spring applicants

Supplemental applications are available in the Applicant Portal. Beginning mid-September, access to the portal will be granted 48-72 hours after  your admission application is received .  Please submit any additional documentation as soon as possible. We will accept documents  up to seven  days after the admission plan deadline.

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.

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. Complete the Financial Certification Form (International applicants only)

All prospective first-year international students who apply for admission to UM must submit an International 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.

9. 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.

10. Send Conduct Updates

If there is any update to your academic achievement or personal   conduct, you must notify the Office of Undergraduate Admission immediately by uploading the documentation to your Applicant Portal in the "Materials Upload" section or by emailing the update to  [email protected] . 

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

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University of Miami Supplemental Essays 2023-24 Prompts and Advice

August 28, 2023

In the 1980s and ‘90s, the University of Miami was a football powerhouse; albeit one with its fair share of controversy. In the 2020s, the school has more to brag about on the academic front than on the gridiron. Now attracting close to 50,000 applications and sporting an acceptance rate of just 19%  (and dropping), U Miami has become a highly selective university that is no longer anything close to a sure thing, even for students with excellent grades and test scores. This means that, in 2023-24, the University of Miami supplemental essay is more important than ever before.

 (Want to learn more about How to Get Into the University of Miami? Visit our blog entitled:  How to Get Into the University of Miami: Admissions Data and Strategies   for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

Although it only has one general essay prompt, the University of Miami’s supplemental section still affords applicants an opportunity to illustrate what makes them uniquely qualified for admission. Below is U Miami’s supplemental prompt for the 2023-24 admissions cycle. Additionally, we offer advice on how to pen a winning composition.

2023-2024 U Miami Supplemental Essays

Prompt 1 (250 Words): 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.

Pro tip: the language used in any given prompt provides you with critical information about what your essay should address. As such, note the information that U Miami chooses to share about itself : a values-based and purpose-driven postsecondary institution that embraces diversity and inclusivity and strives to create a culture of belonging . Essentially, they want to know how you will contribute to that mission, and how your personal experiences will impact what kind of academic and social community member you might be.

University of Miami supplemental essays (Continued)

As such, you might consider discussing:

• Your role in your family.
• Your role in your social group.
• A challenge you’ve faced.
• A formative experience or realization.
• An opinion or perspective that has developed over time.
• Important aspects of your upbringing.
• Cultural, religious, community influence.
• A skill you have that you feel could impact others in a positive way.

Once you’ve chosen a particular direction, think about what you’ve learned from the experience. Also ponder what you think others could learn from you. Most importantly, how will your learnings positively contribute to U Miami’s mission? This is a chance to show that you are an open-minded, curious, and humble young person who is willing to learn and grow from their experiences.

How important is the UMiami supplemental essay?

The essays (both the Common App essay and the supplemental one) are “very important” to the evaluation process. Five other factors are also considered as “very important.” These factors are: rigor of coursework, class rank, GPA, recommendations, and extracurricular activities. Clearly, the University of Miami places enormous value on the quality of your supplemental essay.

Want personalized essay assistance with the University of Miami supplemental essays?

In conclusion, if you are interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your University of Miami supplement, we encourage you to  get a quote  today.

• College Essay

Andrew Belasco

A licensed counselor and published researcher, Andrew's experience in the field of college admissions and transition spans two decades. He has previously served as a high school counselor, consultant and author for Kaplan Test Prep, and advisor to U.S. Congress, reporting on issues related to college admissions and financial aid.

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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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First-Year Writing Studies Courses:

View Spring 2024 Course Offerings: WRS 105, WRS 106, & WRS 107

Wrs 101 | writing lab.

WRS 101 will provide students with consistent and sustained support for their reading and writing needs in WRS 105. Students will schedule one-hour per week standing appointments with Writing Center tutors. These standing appointments will be used exclusively to support the work of the WRS 105 course and must be kept throughout the entire semester.

WRS 105 | FIRST-YEAR WRITING I

Advanced approaches to multidisciplinary written and multimodal communication. Emphasizes transferable skills in academic inquiry and argument. Not for major or minor. Cannot be taken on credit-only option.

WRS 106 | FIRST-YEAR WRITING II

Advanced approaches to multidisciplinary written and multimodal communication using secondary sources. Emphasizes transferable skills in academic analysis, argument, and research. Not for major or minor. Cannot be taken on credit-only option.

WRS 107 | FIRST-YEAR WRITING II

Advanced approaches to multidisciplinary written and multimodal communication using secondary sources. Emphasizes transferable skills in academic analysis, argument, and research for STEM disciplines. Not for major or minor. Cannot be taken on credit-only option.

WRS 208 | ADVANCED ACADEMIC WRITING

Review of research techniques and revision strategies. Completes the university Written Communication Skills requirement for those students who transfer into UM with credit for one first-year writing course from another institution. Open only to transfer students who have received transfer credit for either WRS 105 or WRS 106. Not open to students who have taken WRS 105, WRS 106, and/or ENG 106 at UM.

Writing Studies

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What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

What Does It Take to Get into the University of Miami?

What’s covered.

• How Hard Is It To Get Into University of Miami

Average Academic Profile of Accepted UMiami Students

What is university of miami looking for.

• How to Improve Your Chances of Getting into University of Miami
• How To Apply to University of Miami
• Learn More About University of Miami

Set on a lake in the center of Coral Gables, Florida, seven miles from downtown Miami, University of Miami is a private research university with a total student population of around 17,000. The University comprises 12 undergraduate and graduate schools and colleges, including its College of Arts and Science, College of Engineering, School of Architecture and 6 other pre-professional schools. Students join a lively and diverse academic community focused on teaching and learning, the discovery of new knowledge, and service to the South Florida region and beyond. 

How Hard Is It to Get Into University of Miami?

For the 2019–2020 admissions cycle, University of Miami received 40,131 applicants, of which 13,280 were accepted. This means that last year, UMiami acceptance rate was 33% , making it a moderately selective school. That same year, UMiami received 1,357 early decision applicants, of which 830 were accepted, which yields a 61% acceptance rate for early decision. UMiami also has a non-binding early action option .  

Want to get a better idea of your personal chances of admission? Our free chancing calculator can help you better understand your chances of acceptance into any college. By taking into account multiple elements of your profile, including your grades, test scores, extracurriculars, and more, we’ll estimate your odds of acceptance, and give you tips on improving your profile! 

The average high school GPA of UMiami’s Class of 2024 was 3.6. 13% had a GPA of 4.0 . 25% had a GPA between 3.75 and 3.99 , and a similar 24% had a GPA between 3.5 and 3.74.  

Of the 36% of Colgate’s class of 2024 who submitted class rank, 51% graduated in the top 10% of their high school class, and 78% graduated in the top 25%. 95% graduated in the top half. 

While standardized test scores are normally required for applicants, University of Miami is test-optional for students applying for the Spring or Fall 2022 semesters. Of the students who enrolled in Fall 2020, the top 25% of students scored above a 1400 on the SAT , and above a 32 on the ACT. 

With more than 180 academic programs and majors, University of Miami is the intellectual and professional life of undergraduate and graduate students regularly representing all fifty states. In short, UMiami has a place for everyone. From the College of Arts and Science to the College of Engineering, University of Miami looks for all kinds of students ready to gain critical skills to lead in a global economy. 

How University of Miami Evaluates Applications

According to their 2020-2021 Common Data Set, University of Miami considers the following factors “very important” :

• Course rigor
• Academic GPA
• Standardized test scores
• Application essay
• Recommendations
• Extracurricular activities

These factors are “important” :

• Talent/ability
• Character/personal qualities
• Volunteer work
• Work experience

These are “considered” :

• First generation
• Alumni/ae relation
• Geographical residence
• State residency
• Racial/ethnic status
• Level of applicant’s interest 

And these are “not considered” :

• Religious affiliation/commitment

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting into University of Miami 

1. achieve at least a 3.6 gpa while taking the most challenging classes available.

As the average GPA of enrolled Colgate students last year was a 3.6, in order to be a competitive candidate, you should aim for at least a 3.6 GPA. In addition, Colgate wants to see that you’ve challenged yourself, so you should try and take advanced honors, AP, or IB classes.

Selective schools like Washington and Lee receive a massive number of applications and use a tool known as the Academic Index to sort through them. Academic Index consolidates your entire academic performance into a single number which is used to see if you meet a school’s academic standards. If you fail to meet a college’s Academic Index threshold, you risk not having your application read. 

If your GPA is lower, and you’re still a freshman or sophomore in your high school, check out our tips for increasing your GPA . If you’re a junior or senior, it will be harder to increase your GPA, so the easiest way to increase your Academic Index is to get a higher test score.

2. Report your SAT scores if above 1400, and ACT if above 32

While standardized test scores are optional for students applying for Fall 2022 enrollment, University of Miami will still consider your test scores if you submit them. For next year, students who does not submit test scores will not be at a disadvantage from those who do. That being said, a high standardized test score is a valuable way to display your academic aptitude in addition to your transcript. If you do take the SAT or ACT and score in the 75th percentile of UMiami students, which is a 1400 on the SAT or a 32 on the ACT, reporting your scores will likely give you a boost.

To improve your SAT/ACT score, check out these free CollegeVine resources:

• How to Get a Perfect 1600 Score on the SAT
• How to Get a Perfect 36 Score on the ACT
• More SAT Info and Tips
• More ACT Info and Tips

3. Write engaging essays and supplement responses

In addition to the Common Application personal essay, University of Miami will require you to write a 250-word response to the UMiami supplemental essay prompt. With UMiami’s focus on a student’s character and personal qualities, as well as real-world applications of skills, the essay is the perfect place for applicants to show his or her strengths , character, authentic voice, and written eloquence.  

For tips on how to approach the supplemental questions, take a look at our guide on how to write the University of Miami essays 2021–2022.

4. Highlight any work or volunteer experience 

University of Miami prepares students from all kinds of backgrounds for today’s global world. The school values putting theory into practice, and wants students who have a stake in how they choose to spend their time. Underlining your work or volunteer experience will show UMiami that you have engaged with the real world and that you are invested in putting your skills to practice. 

For ideas on how to spin a high school job into an impressive extracurricular, check out our tips here . 

5. Apply Early Decision

University of Miami’s early decision acceptance rate is 61% , while the regular decision acceptance rate is 33% . A student has almost a two-fold increase in chances of acceptance when they apply early decision to UMiami, even after accounting for profile strength. If you have your heart set on UMiami, applying ED can be a great way to show your commitment. However, keep in mind the drawbacks to applying early decision. You’ll have less time to refine your application, fewer financial aid packages options, and there’s the obvious inability to try your hand at other colleges if you do get into your ED school. 

How to Apply to University of Miami 

Planning on applying to UMiami? Here are some dates to keep in mind for the 2021–2022 application cycle. 

Application Requirements

University of Miami accepts applications through the Common Application. To apply, you will need the following materials:

• All parts of your Common Application, including personal essay, extracurricular activities list, and application fee (option to request fee waiver) 
• Official high school transcript
• SAT or ACT scores (optional for Class of 2026)
• One letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor 
• Supplemental materials for students applying to the Schools of architecture, music, theater, and Health Professions Mentoring Program 
• Educational activities (for students who have had a time gap of three months or more during their educational career or from the time they graduated high school to the intended date of enrollment at University of Miami) 
• Financial Certification Form (for international applicants only) 

Learn more about University of Miami 

What Does It Cost To Attend The University Of Miami?

How to Write the University of Miami Essays 2021-2022

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, university of miami supplemental essay examples.

I'm applying to the University of Miami and I'd appreciate if someone could share their supplemental essay examples or any advice on writing these. I know it's important to be authentic, but examples might help me understand what they're looking for. Thanks!

Hey there! I'm glad you're looking for some guidance on writing your University of Miami supplemental essays. CollegeVine has an article with two University of Miami essays submitted by real students, along with feedback on what works and what could be improved upon: https://blog.collegevine.com/university-of-miami-essay-examples

Now for some quick advice—make sure to thoroughly read and understand the prompt, and figure out what aspects of your life, experiences, and personality you'd like to highlight. Are there specific programs or opportunities at the University of Miami that really resonate with you? Make sure to include those!

When writing your essay, remember to be genuine and let your own voice shine through. Admissions officers want to get to know you as a person, so stay true to yourself and your unique experiences. Avoid clichéd topics, overly complex language, or trying too hard to impress.

Finally, always revise your essay multiple times, ask for feedback from others, and double-check your spelling and grammar.

Check out CollegeVine's guide to writing the current University of Miami supplementals: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-university-of-miami-essays

Good luck with your application!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

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The University of Texas: Austin application is a beast unto itself, with a slew of essay prompts (full text below) that ask you to dig into all aspects of your life. From your home life to your future plans, you're going to have to tell all -- and in a way that sets you apart! Luckily CEA's Founder, Stacey Brook, is here to break down the prompts so you're ready to tackle anything Texas' independent platform throws at you.

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Guide to the 2018-19 University of Michigan Essays

Submitting your college application to the University of Michigan can be a real nail-biter. Michigan requires three supplemental essays. The Founder and Chief Advisor of College Essay Advisors, Stacey Brook, is here to give you invaluable insight into the prompts and the motivation behind them so you can take advantage of this opportunity to speak to admissions in your own voice.

How to Get Into UNC (With a Great Essay)

UNC is well-known for being the first public university in the United States and a leader in innovative teaching strategies. The school is also known for receiving many college applications, which means it is crucial for applicants to differentiate themselves in their essays. Luckily for UNC hopefuls, the university gives students two additional supplemental prompts to respond to in order to set themselves apart from the sea of similarly qualified applicants and increase their chances of getting into UNC. College Essay Advisors Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to break down the UNC supplemental prompts so you know which essays will showcase your best attributes!

Guide to the 2017-2018 Duke University Supplemental Essays

Submitting your college application to Duke University can be a real nail-biter. Although it's probably too late now to tweak your test scores or GPA, you can make sure that your college application essays will bring you admissions success! Duke requires one supplemental short answer and gives students the opportunity to respond to two optional prompts. The Founder and Chief Advisor of College Essay Advisors, Stacey Brook, is here to give you invaluable insight into the prompts and the motivation behind them so you can take advantage of this opportunity to speak to admissions in your own voice.

Guide to the 2017-2018 Harvard University Supplemental Essay

Harvard University is one of the most competitive schools in the country. Every year admissions officers are bombarded with applications from eager students looking to make the cut. Thus, Harvard has a supplement to give students an opportunity to distinguish themselves from the competition. Writing supplemental essays can be daunting, but luckily for you, College Essay Advisors founder (and admissions expert) Stacey Brook is here to break down the Harvard supplement so you can hit submit with confidence.

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Home — Application Essay — University — University of Miami

University of Miami Admission Essays

Introduction to university of miami essays.

The University of Miami, known for its vibrant campus life and academic rigor, requires essays that help the admissions committee understand each applicant's unique story. Crafting a compelling essay for the University of Miami involves reflecting your personality, goals, and fit with the university's ethos. This guide delves into various aspects of the University of Miami essay, including University of Miami essay examples and UMiami supplemental essay examples.

Before diving into the essay writing process, it's essential to grasp some key facts about the University of Miami essays. These essays are a critical part of your application, offering a chance to showcase aspects of your personality and aspirations that aren't evident in other parts of the application.

Main Facts about University of Miami Essays

Before diving into the essay writing process, it's essential to grasp some key facts about the UMiami essays. These essays are a critical part of your application, offering a chance to showcase aspects of your personality and aspirations that aren't evident in other parts of the application. Understanding these facts will help you approach your essay writing with clarity and purpose.

• The University of Miami requires applicants to submit essays as part of their application to gain a more holistic view of the candidate.
• These essays often include a personal statement as part of the Common Application or Coalition Application.
• Supplemental essays specifically tailored to the University of Miami are also a requirement, focusing on specific aspects such as why you choose the University of Miami or how your goals align with its programs.
• The word limit for these essays is typically strict, requiring concise and focused writing.
• Topics range from personal growth stories to discussing specific academic interests or career goals.
• Essays are used by the admissions committee to assess not only writing skills but also creativity, critical thinking, and suitability for the university's culture.
• Unique and original essays tend to stand out more in the admissions process, reflecting the applicant's genuine personality.
• Successful essays often connect personal stories with future aspirations and how the University of Miami can facilitate these goals.
• Demonstrating knowledge about the University of Miami’s programs, values, and community can add depth to your essays.
• Proofreading and revision are key, as well-structured, error-free essays reflect a candidate's attention to detail and dedication.

University of Miami Requirements

Gaining admission to the University of Miami requires meeting specific academic and application criteria. Prospective students must navigate a range of requirements, including GPA thresholds, standardized test scores, recommendation letters, and a well-rounded application showcasing extracurricular activities and personal achievements. Additionally, the university's unique essay prompts demand thoughtful, articulate responses that reflect the applicant's personality and compatibility with the institution's values. Understanding and meticulously adhering to these requirements is crucial for a successful application, as they collectively represent the standards and expectations set forth by this prestigious university.

Understanding the University of Miami Requirements

The University of Miami has specific requirements for its application essays, which play a pivotal role in the admissions process. These include word limits, usually ranging from 250 to 650 words, prompt choices that vary each year, and focus areas the university expects applicants to address. It's crucial to adhere to these requirements to ensure that your application is considered. This includes showcasing your writing skills, your ability to think critically, and your alignment with the university's ethos. Understanding and following these guidelines is the first step towards crafting a compelling application.

Role of Supplemental Essays in the University of Miami Application

The University of Miami recognizes the importance of a holistic review process, and as such, it requires applicants to submit supplemental essays. These essays are an opportunity for applicants to provide more detailed insights into their background, experiences, and why they are interested in attending the University of Miami. The supplemental essays usually ask students to elaborate on their academic interests, extracurricular activities, and personal experiences that have shaped their decision to apply. They allow the admissions committee to get a more holistic understanding of the applicant beyond grades and test scores. Crafting thoughtful and authentic essays can significantly impact the overall strength of an application.

University of Miami Supplemental Essay Prompts

The University of Miami offers a range of supplemental essay prompts, which are carefully designed to assess the applicant's fit with the university's culture and values. These prompts encourage students to discuss their academic and personal interests more deeply, their community involvement, leadership experiences, and personal challenges. They vary each year, but typically include questions that invite students to reflect on their personal growth, future aspirations, and how they plan to contribute to the university community.

• The first prompt focuses on personal growth and asks students to describe a significant challenge they have overcome and the lessons learned from that experience. For example, an applicant could write about overcoming a language barrier, which taught them resilience and the value of diverse communication skills.
• The second prompt delves into academic and career aspirations, where students are asked to articulate their future goals and how the University of Miami can help them achieve these. An effective response might involve a student's aspiration to become an environmental scientist, emphasizing how the university's cutting-edge research facilities and expert faculty can aid in their academic journey.
• The third prompt centers around community contribution, asking applicants to discuss how they plan to engage with and contribute to the University of Miami community. A compelling response could detail a student's plan to start a cultural exchange club, fostering a more inclusive and diverse campus environment.

Thoughtful responses to these prompts, showcasing personal narratives and clear alignment with the university's values, are key to demonstrating suitability for admission.

How to Write the University of Miami Supplemental Essays

Writing the UMiami supplemental essays involves a strategic approach that begins with thorough brainstorming:

• Start by reflecting on experiences and ideas that are meaningful to you and align with the prompt.
• Ensure that your essays are well-structured, engaging, and reflective of your unique experiences and perspectives.
• Focus on clarity and coherence, making sure each paragraph contributes to the overall narrative.
• Use specific examples to illustrate your points and avoid generalizations.

Most importantly, let your personality and genuine interest in the university shine through. Editing and revising multiple drafts is also key to polishing your essays to perfection.

University of Miami Essay Examples

Examining University of Miami supplemental essay examples can provide valuable insights into what the admissions committee looks for in a successful essay. These examples often demonstrate creativity, depth of thought, and a strong personal connection to the university's values. Analyzing these essays can help you understand the balance between personal storytelling and intellectual discourse that the university values. Note how successful essays integrate personal anecdotes with reflections on broader themes and how they align with the university’s academic and social environment. Use these examples as a guide but remember to inject your originality and voice into your writing:

• My Experience and How It Shapes My University Goals
• The Role of Failure in Personal Growth
• My Journey Towards Environmental Advocacy
• Lessons from Leading a Community Service Project
• How My Experiment Impacted My Academic Aspirations
• My Initiative to Promote Inclusivity in Education
• How Music Influences My Educational Path
• My Story of Resilience and Its Impact on My Future
• How Multilingualism Has Shaped My Worldview
• My Plan to Enhance Campus Sustainability at the University of Miami

University of Miami Essay Examples: Conclusion

In conclusion, the University of Miami essays are a significant component of your application. They offer an opportunity to demonstrate your unique qualities and how you align with the university. Writing these essays requires introspection, creativity, and a clear understanding of the university's ethos. Utilize these tips, examples, and insights to craft essays that truly reflect your identity and aspirations for your university journey. Remember, a well-written essay can be a deciding factor in your admission, making it essential to invest time and effort into crafting compelling narratives that resonate with the admissions committee.

Passion for Sustainable Science at University of Miami

As an aspiring environmental scientist, my journey has been shaped by a deep-rooted passion for sustainable development and a profound belief in the power of scientific knowledge to catalyze positive change. Therefore, it is with great enthusiasm that I submit my application for admission to…

Passion for Scientific Research and Pursuing Advancement

I have always been passionate about exploring the world of science and conducting research in order to contribute to the advancement of knowledge. This passion was ignited during a significant research project that I had the opportunity to participate in during my undergraduate studies. This…

Eye-Opening Experience: Embracing Diversity & Multiculturalism

I had limited exposure to diversity and different cultures. However, it was during my high school years that I had a personal experience that completely shattered my preconceived notions and opened my eyes to the importance of diversity and multiculturalism. Sophomore Year: Meeting Javier During…

University Of Miami: My Journey to Understanding Inclusion

The majority of the population in my town shared similar backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences. It wasn’t until I moved to a larger city for college that I truly began to understand the importance of diversity and inclusion. Introduction During my freshman year, I decided to…

Becoming a Global Citizen: My Journey in Ecuador and Beyond

As a high school student, I always had a keen interest in exploring different cultures and understanding global issues. This passion led me to participate in a student exchange program during my sophomore year, which turned out to be a life-changing experience. The time I…

Visualizing Tomorrow: UMiami's Design

Initiating the compelling journey of expressing my passion for architecture and design, the University of Miami Architecture & Design School supplement essay stands as a gateway. In the following narrative, my goal is not only to narrate the chapters of my creative journey but also…

UMiami Supplemental Example: My Scientific Odyssey

In this UMiami Science School supplemental essay example, my goal is not only to recount the milestones of my scientific journey but also to illuminate the profound motivations and aspirations propelling my pursuit of knowledge. Beyond being a mere application requirement, this essay stands as…

My Goal to Advance my Education as a Nurse

I have always been intrinsically drawn to the nursing profession. I have not survived or experienced any life-threatening illness nor had a role-model for inspiration to be a nurse and luckily, never had to take care of anyone close to me suffering from a medical…

Why I Want To Pursue A Master's Degree In Geometry

There is an undeniable beauty to pure mathematics. Now, after several years of working with deep abstractions, my dream is to go back to the real world and make use of all the theoretical tools that I’ve acquired, and contribute to further developments in different…

Why I Want to Study International Relations

In this essay, I will elaborate on why I want to study international relations. From my early fascination with the intricacies of global relationships to my experiences in Model United Nations and my desire for a comprehensive education, I am drawn to this field. The…

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University of Miami Supplemental Essays 2024 | Strategies and Insights for Success

The University of Miami, once renowned for its football prowess in the 1980s and ’90s, has evolved into a powerhouse on the academic front in the 2020s. With close to 50,000 applications flooding in and an acceptance rate dwindling to just 19%, U Miami has transformed into a highly selective institution, challenging even top-performing students to secure admission. In the competitive landscape of 2023-24, the University of Miami supplemental essay emerges as a critical component of the application process, offering applicants a platform to distinguish themselves in a sea of impressive credentials.

Despite featuring only one general essay prompt, the University of Miami’s supplemental section remains a vital opportunity for applicants to showcase their unique qualifications for admission. As applicants gear up for the 2023-24 admissions cycle, let’s delve into U Miami’s supplemental prompt and offer insights on crafting a winning composition.

Also read University of Miami Acceptance Rate | Strategies and Insights for Admission Success 2024

University of Miami Supplemental Essays

Prompt 1: Contributing to a Diverse Community (250 Words) Nestled within one of the world’s most vibrant cities, the University of Miami prides itself on fostering a diverse and inclusive community, where every individual is valued and empowered to contribute. In 250 words, share how your unique experiences, challenges overcome, or skills acquired would enrich our distinctive university community. Consider aligning your response with U Miami’s mission of embracing diversity, inclusivity, and creating a culture of belonging. Reflect on your familial, social, or personal experiences, highlighting their impact on shaping your perspective and readiness to contribute positively to U Miami’s vibrant tapestry of cultures and backgrounds.

The language used in the prompt offers valuable insights into what your essay should address. Pay attention to U Miami’s emphasis on being a values-based, purpose-driven institution that prioritizes diversity and inclusivity. Craft your response to showcase how you align with these values and how your experiences will shape your role as a member of the U Miami community.

As you tackle the University of Miami supplemental essays, consider exploring various facets of your identity and experiences, such as:

• Your familial or social role.
• Challenges overcome and lessons learned.
• Formative experiences or realizations.
• Evolving perspectives or opinions.
• Cultural, religious, or community influences.
• Impactful skills you possess.

Once you’ve chosen a direction, delve into the lessons learned from your experiences and how they contribute to U Miami’s mission of diversity, inclusivity, and belonging. Showcasing humility, open-mindedness, and a willingness to learn and grow will resonate positively with the admissions committee, highlighting your potential as a valued member of the U Miami community.

Also see University of Miami Transfer Acceptance Rate 2024 | Strategies and Insights for Success

The Importance of the UMiami Supplemental Essay

The UMiami supplemental essay, alongside the Common App essay, holds significant weight in the evaluation process, rated as “very important” by the admissions committee. Alongside factors like coursework rigor, GPA, class rank, recommendations, and extracurricular activities, the quality of your supplemental essay plays a crucial role in shaping the admissions decision. Thus, aspiring UMiami applicants must recognize the immense value placed on crafting a compelling supplemental essay that aligns with the university’s mission and values.

The University of Miami supplemental essays for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle offer applicants a pivotal opportunity to showcase their unique experiences, perspectives, and readiness to contribute to a diverse and inclusive community. With the prompt emphasizing the university’s commitment to embracing diversity and creating a culture of belonging, applicants are encouraged to craft responses that resonate with these values. As the admissions committee places immense importance on the quality of the supplemental essays, aspiring UMiami applicants must approach this task with diligence, humility, and a genuine desire to share their stories and insights. By thoughtfully addressing the prompts and aligning their responses with UMiami’s mission, applicants can enhance their chances of standing out and securing a place in this dynamic and vibrant academic community.

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Students contribute to sustainability efforts on campus

Graduate student Elizabeth Deese, left, and junior Erin Burnett embrace sustainability efforts on campus. 

By Barbara Gutierrez [email protected] 04-08-2024

Erin Burnett, a junior, has always loved sports. In high school in Mount Olive, New Jersey, she played field hockey, golf, and soccer. Her dream is to become an athletics director with a collegiate or professional sports team.

Toward that end, she is majoring is sport administration at the University of Miami School of Education and Human Development . She is also the student football equipment manager in the Department of Athletics.

Last semester, she heard Teddy Lhoutellier, the University’s sustainability director, talk about the efforts of Green U , the office of sustainability, and she was drawn in by the importance of these efforts for the good of the planet.

Burnett is now the UM Green Athletics Liaison, and her mission is to bring the message of sustainability to athletes and fans.

“It is really about being mindful to the environment,” she said. Her goals are to make sure athletes and fans are aware that even small efforts can make a big difference.

Lhoutellier’s message resonated with her because he emphasized how efforts to create a green environment at the University have always been student driven.

“We have a history that everything regarding sustainability at the U has been thanks to the students,” he said. “It is not very common to see student initiatives turn into powerful organizations.”

From 2007, when a student-led initiative resulted in the University’s commitment to be carbon neutral by 2050 to the establishment of a myriad of programs and groups to sustain the environment, students have always led the effort, said Lhoutellier. He cites the ECO Agency, a group within Student Government that boosts sustainability projects on campus, as one example.

As one of several liaisons throughout the University, Burnett in her role shares information a bout environmental sustainability initiatives and opportunities while identifying improvements in the units. Her role is particularly important when it concerns large athletic events, which tend to generate a great deal of waste, she said.

One of those events took place on March 6, at the Watsco Center during Miami Hurricanes’ "green” game against Boston College. Videos on sustainability were shown during half-time and participants who signed a plastic free pledge took part in giveaways.

Burnett is currently carrying out audits of the baseball stadium, Alex Rodriguez Park at Mark Light Field, and football cafeteria to determine the kinds of products being used and whether the waste could be minimized and disposed properly.

“ Some examples of what I look to find are if they are using more paper or plastic, if there are enough recycling bins, and if they have the correct bags,” she said. “I like to ask about any recent changes they’ve made or about to make.” 

For Elizabeth Deese, her love of nature, and particularly the ocean, led her to the Office of Sustainability. As a native Bostonian, she would often sail the New England coast with her family. Deese is a graduate student in the M.A. in Environment, Culture, and Media Program through the Abess Center for Ecosystem Science and Policy .

“Growing up sailing instilled in me a sense of adventure and a reverence and deep connection to the ocean and the environment,” she said. “It taught me to appreciate not only the recreational and aesthetic value of nature, but also its intrinsic value.”

Today, Deese works part-time as the communications coordinator for the Office of Sustainability and has married her love of storytelling with her interest in advocating for green practices.

In addition to maintaining the office’s social media platforms, she creates videos highlighting “green” programs, people, and initiatives around campus.

One such video was on “Sustainable Dining at UM.” It focused on how the dining halls are emphasizing plant-based offerings as well as buying produce from local suppliers and providing students with Ozzi reusable to-go containers. 

Deese finds that the messages are well received by the students and staff members.

“In 2024, because of climate change and the array of environmental problems that we are facing, shifting to more sustainable practices helps to mitigate the negative effects,” she said. 

“Reducing our individual carbon footprints is profoundly important, but we also have power beyond that. We can vote, educate ourselves, and get involved with local environmental organizations. Not only living as ‘green’ as we possibly can, but also using our power and our voice, will help bring us closer to that more sustainable and equitable future,” Deese added.

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Results released for February bar exam in Florida: Which schools made the grade?

Of the 593 people who took Florida's February bar examination for the first time, 334 passed, or roughly 56%, according to a Monday announcement from the Florida Board of Bar Examiners.

That's about the same as last February's exam, when almost 55% passed, or 371 of 678, records show.

Florida offers its bar exam, as do most states, twice a year, in February and July. A greater number of test takers, many of whom have just graduated from law school in May, sit for the summer administration of the exam. For instance, there were 2,163 first-timers last July in Florida, with close to 72% passing.

This February, of Florida's 12 accredited law schools, Florida International University College of Law had the highest pass rate at 82.6%.

Technically, the lowest was Florida Coastal School of Law: Neither of its two graduates who took the exam passed. Because of accreditation and financial problems, that school shut down in 2021.

In Florida, the state's Supreme Court ultimately decides who becomes an attorney. "Passing the bar," as it's known, is but one step; applicants also must pass clear an in-depth background check, usually referred to as character and fitness review.

Florida's exam – again, like many states – is given over two days, with one day consisting of written essays and another devoted to a six-hour, 200 multiple-choice question test known as the Multistate Bar Examination. All applicants have to pass a separate legal ethics test, the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination. 

Other first-time test takers this February include those who are already practicing law in another state (65.7%, or 157 of 239) or who graduated from an out-of-state law school (36.3%, or 29 of 80).

Breakdown of February 2024 Florida bar exam results, first time takers

James L. Rosica is news director of the Tallahassee Democrat. Reach him at [email protected] and follow him on Twitter/X: @ JimRosicaFL .

Miami students win record-number 26 awards at regional SPJ conference

14 students were Mark of Excellence winners in the regional Society of Professional Journalists competition

Miami University students were recognized for their 2023 work in journalism, winning a record-number 26 awards at the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) regional competition. Fourteen were first-place winners in the annual regional Mark of Excellence (MOE) competition sponsored by the Society of Professional Journalists, and 12 were MOE finalists.

“Our students are doing important, thoughtful reporting on the communities they cover during a time of heightened mistrust of news media,” said Rosemary Pennington , associate professor of Media, Journalism, and Film, and coordinator of journalism. “The journalism faculty is proud of all they have accomplished and we're thrilled their work has been recognized in this way by SPJ."

First-place Mark of Excellence winners:

• Corbin Gwaltney Award for Best All-Around Student Newspaper (Large 10,000+) – The Miami Student led by editor Sean Scott.
• Best Use of Multimedia – Ryann Beaschler on Medium.com that was part of a multimedia journalism class taught by Rosemary Pennington.
• Breaking New Reporting – a story by Sean Scott and Alice Momany of The Miami Student about the OPD use of force investigation.
• Campus Reporting – for stories by Sean Scott of The Miami Student about cultural diversity in Miami performing groups and other columns.
• Cultural Criticism – Lily Wahl of The Miami Student for her literary reviews.
• Data Visualization – Sean Scott and Luke Macy of The Miami Student for maps of Butler County turnout for issues 1 and 2.
• Editorial/Opinion Writing – Ava Kalina of The Miami Student for “Let’s Talk about Methane.”
• Feature Writing (Large 10,000+) – Lily Wahl and Taylor Stumbaugh of The Miami Student for  “Miami …. Merged.”
• Food/Restaurant Journalism – Sean Scott and Devin Ankeney of The Miami Student for “We can't cook.”
• General News Reporting (Large 10,000+) – Morgan Schneider of Oxford Stories on com for a story she did for the multimedia journalism course taught by Rosemary Pennington titled “In East Palestine, life inches towards normal.”
• Photo Essay/Slideshow – Sarah Frosch of The Miami Student for her photographs of the Walter E. Havighurst special collections.
• Science/Environment/Climate Reporting – Austin Smith of The Miami Student for “Saving balloons worth of money with helium reclamation.”
• Sports Writing (Large 10,000+) – Jack Schmelzinger of The Miami Student for “Ryland Zaborowski doesn’t let autism stop him from crushing baseballs.”

Mark of Excellence finalists:

• Best Affiliated Website – The Miami Student.
• Best Ongoing Student Magazine – UP Magazine.
• Best Use of Multimedia – Jessica Opfer for her story on Medium as part of the multimedia journalism course taught by Rosemary Pennington.
• Campus Reporting – Anastasija Mladenovska of The Miami Student for her story titled “The Kingdom of air purifiers.”
• Podcast (Conversational) – Raquel Hirsch and Olivia Patel of The Miami Student for )People and Policies.
• Cultural Criticism – Luke Macy of The Miami Student for film reviews.
• Cultural Criticism – Stella Powers of The Miami Student for critiques on film and television.
• Feature writing (Large 10,000+)  -- Ryann Beaschler of The Miami Student for “Love birds, peony fields and chocolate hearts: Two professors’ marriage story.”
• General News Reporting (Large 10,000+) – Evan Stefanik of The Miami Student for “Examining Miami's drinking culture.”
• In-depth Reporting (Large 10,000+) – Kasey Turman of The Miami Student for “‘This is absolutely heartbreaking’: Miami considers eliminating majors in the humanities.”
• Science/Environment/Climate Reporting – Sarah Kennel of The Miami Student for “Local voices spread secondhand love.”
• Sport Photography – Jessica Monahan of The Miami Student for “Miami brings home Victory Bell for the first time since 2005.”

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Bob Graham, Former Florida Governor and Senator, Dies at 87

After the 9/11 attacks, Mr. Graham became an outspoken critic of President George W. Bush’s response and voted against invading Iraq.

By Robert D. McFadden

Bob Graham, a Florida Democrat who as a little-known state senator cleaned stables and waited on tables in a clever populist strategy that helped to boost him into the governorship, the United States Senate and a run for the presidency, died on Tuesday at his home in Gainesville, Fla. He was 87.

His death was announced in a family statement sent by Chris Hand, a family spokesman who is a former aide to Senator Graham and his co-author on books about effective citizenship in democracy. Mr. Graham was disabled by a stroke in May 2020.

The son of a Florida state senator, Mr. Graham had gained little political traction after 13 years in the State Legislature. He seemed destined to rise no higher than his father. Then he had an idea.

Besides his official duties, he resolved to work eight hours a day in hundreds of mostly entry-level jobs to bond with his constituents. He performed what he called “Workdays” off and on for the rest of his career.

He was, for a day, a short-order cook, a bellhop, a social work aide, a plumber. He saw a murder victim on a night riding with cops. He was a department-store Santa, a citrus packer and an office temp. He applied for food stamps. He picked tomatoes under a broiling sun, filled potholes, collected garbage, cut down tree limbs broken after a storm and was a circus clown.

Voters and the press, especially television news programs, loved these “Workdays,” which became a campaign staple. Mr. Graham would win two terms as governor (1979-87) and three terms in the Senate (1987-2005) and make a heady but hopeless run for the White House in 2003.

When he retired from the Senate after 38 years of public life, Mr. Graham, an obsessive diarist of minutiae that read like an hourly log, had itemized all his “Workdays” experiences, as well as his activities as governor, senator and presidential aspirant. The record showed that, outside his official duties, he had worked in 921 more-or-less ordinary jobs in 109 cities and five states.

“I have a reputation, that is not undeserved, as being more of an understated person, and I’m not easily aroused to fervent, some people would say charismatic, levels,” he said in a campaign interview with The New York Times in 2003. “But I think maybe what the American people want right now is someone who can give them a sense of steady leadership, as opposed to an emotional jolt.”

He always relied on steady progress. As Florida’s 38th governor, he won high marks for educational strides in public schools and universities, as well as for economic programs that added 1.2 million jobs and raised per capita income above national averages for the first time. His environmental policies brought fragile lands like the Everglades under state protection. He was easily re-elected in 1982, and he left office as one of Florida’s most popular politicians, with an 83 percent voter-approval rating.

In the 1986 Senate election, he beat the Republican incumbent, Senator Paula Hawkins , 55 to 45 percent, and he won re-election over Bill Grant in 1992 and Charlie Crist in 1998 with about two-thirds of the votes.

Mr. Graham was chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee during and after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, which killed some 3,000 people. After the attacks, he became a national spokesman on intelligence and security issues, and he was a severe critic of President George W. Bush and his administration’s response to terrorism and the long and costly U.S. involvement in wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Mr. Graham and 22 other senators voted against the invasion of Iraq by an American-led coalition in 2003 — an attack rationalized by Mr. Bush’s claims that Iraq’s president, Saddam Hussein, had supported Al Qaeda and had possessed weapons of mass destruction. Mr. Graham led a joint congressional investigation into 9/11, which in 2004 found no evidence of any ties between Hussein and Al Qaeda. Weapons of mass destruction were not found in Iraq.

Throughout Mr. Graham’s Senate years, his name was raised in vice-presidential politics. He was called a possible running mate to Michael S. Dukakis in 1988, to Bill Clinton in 1992, to Al Gore in 2000 and to John Kerry in 2004. Mr. Graham announced his own candidacy for the 2004 Democratic presidential nomination in December 2002.

But that bid was a short dream. Within weeks he had open-heart surgery, and the campaign faltered. He withdrew from the race in October 2003 and, a month later, said he would not seek re-election to the Senate in 2004. He retired when his term ended in January 2005.

Daniel Robert Graham, who never used his given name, was born on Nov. 9, 1936, in Coral Gables, Fla., to Ernest R. Graham, known as Cap, and Hilda (Simmons) Graham. By a previous marriage, to Florence Morris, Ernest Graham had three children, Mary, Philip and William Graham, Robert’s half siblings. Phil Graham and his wife, Katharine (Meyer) Graham , whose family owned The Washington Post, were co-owners of the newspaper, and he also became publisher.

Ernest Graham, a dairy farmer, mining engineer, real estate developer and Democratic politician, was a Florida senator from 1937 to 1944. His second wife was a teacher. Some genealogical studies suggest that the Graham family shared common distant ancestors with Presidents Jimmy Carter, Richard M. Nixon and Warren G. Harding.

At Miami Senior High School, Robert Graham received the Sigma Chi Award, the school’s highest honor for character, leadership, scholarship and service; was elected president of the student body in his senior year; and graduated in 1955. At the University of Florida, he was inducted into the Phi Beta Kappa honors society and received a bachelor’s degree in political science in 1959. He earned a degree from Harvard Law School in 1962.

In 1959, Mr. Graham married Adele Khoury. They had four daughters: Gwen, Cissy, Suzanne and Kendall. Gwen Graham was a United States representative from Florida from 2015 to 2017, ran unsuccessfully for governor of Florida in 2017 and became an assistant secretary of education in the Biden administration.

He is survived by his wife, his daughters, 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Mr. Graham lived in Miami Lakes, a town founded by his family. He began his political career in 1966 with election to the Florida House of Representatives from Dade County. He won a seat in the Florida Senate, also from Dade, in 1970 and was re-elected in 1972 and 1976 in a redrawn district that encompassed parts of northern Dade and southern Broward Counties.

Mr. Graham was a member of the Senate Education Committee when it held public hearings around the state in 1974. In Miami, he spoke of a dearth of civic awareness among students. In response, a frustrated high school teacher, Sue Reilly, complained that no one on the committee had any experience with education, and she challenged Mr. Graham to teach a civics class for a day.

He agreed, thinking it would never happen. But Ms. Reilly fixed a date at Carol City High School in Miami. Teaching for a day inspired Mr. Graham’s “Workdays” idea, and he decided to teach the civics class for a semester. In succeeding years, he incorporated such days into all his election campaigns, and in 1978, when he won the governorship, he published “Workdays: Finding Florida on the Job,” an account of his experiences in many occupations.

The book began a writing career that paralleled his rising political prominence. He wrote scores of newspaper opinion articles on state and national issues, and, in 2004, he and a speechwriter, Jeff Nussbaum, produced “Intelligence Matters: The CIA, the FBI, Saudi Arabia and the Failure of America’s War on Terrorism,” which detailed a dozen purported flaws in the nation’s defenses against terrorists.

After leaving the Senate, Mr. Graham taught for a year at Harvard, then created the Bob Graham Center for Public Service at the University of Florida as a forum for policymakers and scholars to train students for leadership roles. Along with Mr. Hand, he also wrote “America, the Owner’s Manual: Making Government Work for You” (2009) and a second edition, “America, the Owner’s Manual: You Can Fight City Hall — and Win” (2016).

He also wrote a novel, “Keys to the Kingdom” (2011), a thriller about a retired U.S. senator like himself and a Special Forces investigator racing to head off a Saudi Arabian terrorist plot to set off a nuclear weapon in America.

Alex Traub contributed reporting.

An earlier version of this obituary misspelled the surname of Mr. Graham’s opponent in his successful re-election bid in 1998. He is Charlie Crist, not Christ.

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Robert D. McFadden is a Times reporter who writes advance obituaries of notable people. More about Robert D. McFadden