CAST YOUR VOTE HERE
Voting ends at 7:00PM EST on Wednesday, March 26th.
Winner will be notified by no later than 10PM on Wednesday, March 26th.
Final selection will be posted no later than 10pm on Wednesday March 26th to both the Villanova Basketball (Non-Members) Forum & NovaNation Forum and via social media (FB/Instagram/Twitter).
Link to google form to vote for the 2025 Villanova Student Essay Contest
ESSAY #1
My time at Villanova has been marked by meaningful service experiences that have shaped my understanding of community, inclusion, connection. As a freshman, I participated in RUIBAL, an after-school program, where I worked with children to play games and provide mentorship. It was incredibly rewarding to develop connections with the kids I served. This year, I have taken on a leadership role in SciTime with COV, which involves teaching students science concepts through fun experiments. Leading this initiative has taught me the importance of collaboration, patience, and creativity in fostering a positive learning environment. I also volunteer with the Media & Publicity Inclusion Crew for Special Olympics. Over the past two years, this experience has allowed me to connect with athletes and promote inclusivity. Special Olympics is always so much fun and I am so happy to be a small part of it. Together, these experiences have instilled in me a lifelong commitment to service, empathy, and fostering meaningful relationships.
ESSAY #2
When I first arrived at Villanova, I saw it as an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. I was eager to find ways to challenge myself and explore new opportunities that would help me develop the skills I needed to succeed in the future. From studying abroad in Italy and creating a social justice documentary in the Philippines to founding the Association of Black Communications Students (ABCS), organizing events, and honing my content creation skills, Villanova has provided countless opportunities to step outside my comfort zone and create a vision for my future career.
ESSAY #3
Ever since I was little, I dreamed about attending Villanova, my parents’ alma mater. I remember the excitement that shot through my body on December 14th, 2022 when I was accepted into Villanova for Nursing. It had always been a goal of mine to become a Wildcat, and in that moment I was able to make it a reality. It is crazy to think about how I am almost a junior, which means that I am also almost halfway through my college experience. As a current Blue Key tour guide, one of my favorite aspects to bring up about Villanova is the true sense of community on campus. One aspect that brightens my day can be seen through the door-holding that is done around campus daily where you can make light conversation and have this mutually beneficial thing done for you. I think this aspect emphasizes the unity throughout campus and the outgoing nature of the students which I greatly enjoy. Sharing these stories with hopeful future Villanovans makes my story unique and teaches me that little acts of kindness make a big difference. Thank you for your consideration.
ESSAY #4
My Villanova story started far from perfect. It took me a while to get settled in Freshman year, never really gelled with the kids in my hall so it was a tough start. That all changed when I was introduced to Special Olympics. This event has transformed my life. It has shown me what a true community is and what it feels like to be included. After experiencing Fall Fest freshman year, I applied for Special Olympics Committee and am now on the committee for the third year. I have met life long friends on committee and learned life long skills like leadership, communication, and relationship-building, all in effort to form the best weekend ever for the Special Olympics athletes. Special Olympics made me find my home at Villanova, and I learned that the best things do not always come instantly. I did not find my home in Villanova for a while, but once I found my home, my people, Villanova quickly became the greatest spot on Earth. I would not trade my experience for the world and am excited for one more great year on campus.
ESSAY #5
My first two years at Villanova can be summed up in one word: hard. Anything and everything was just difficult. The classes, making friends, joining clubs and learning how to adjust to life away from home was too much for me to handle. As cliche as it may sound, what truly turned my Villanova experience around was the care and support from my classmates and the University staff. During my lowest point in college thus far, I found trust in a friend who was able to point me in the correct direction on where to get the help I needed. The staff in the counseling center and residence life worked with me when I was not ready to work with them and held my hand every step I needed to take to make sure I was in a safe and healthy place to continue in my Villanova journey. Something I have learned in recent years is that it is okay to admit when help is needed, and that the help can truly transform your life. The call I made 360 days ago today saved my life and turned my Villanova experience around for the better. I couldn’t be more grateful.
ESSAY #6
Villanova has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. My journey here started in an unexpected place—my high school cafeteria. During a lunchtime talent show, I had 30 seconds to showcase my best skill for a $20 BW3 gift card. As a former gymnast, I knew exactly what to do. I sprinted across the lunchroom and tumbled from one end to the other. That moment not only won me the gift card but also caught the attention of my school’s diving coach. I joined the team shortly after and, a year later, committed to Villanova. But my dream of Villanova started long before that. In seventh grade, I put a Villanova sticker in my bedroom window, hoping one day I’d be here. Now, as a third-year student-athlete on the Men’s Swim and Dive team, I can confidently say that one small decision changed my life. Villanova has pushed me beyond my comfort zone—leading a student-athlete Bible study, serving as an RA, and embracing academic challenges. Growth comes from taking risks, and my greatest lessons have come from stepping into the unknown. Villanova has shaped me into a better person, and for that, I am grateful.
ESSAY #7
As I reflect on the past four years, my Villanova story stems directly from being involved in the community. Every opportunity has taught me to enjoy the moment, to take the time to listen to the Corr bell after mass, to grab Panera Bread with my horse lesson group, to write an article that made a difference.
Throughout my time here I was a part of The Villanovan, Villanova Television, Majors Fair Committee, Equestrian Team, Faith and Learning Scholar, and Villanova Pastoral Musicians. I could write a 35-page paper on what each of these clubs did for me individually, but as a whole they showed me that the members within the groups were my school family.
Between working on my future journalism career, continuing my passion of singing, building on my catholic faith, competing in horse shows, or helping freshman find their major or minor, the four years really flew by. All I can feel is sadness that I don’t have four more years to build an even better me.
So, when I’m at the anchor desk five years from now and someone asks me why Villanova? The answer will be simple, Villanova is home.
ESSAY #8
A unique aspect of my Villanova story is that I made history as the first black Student
Body President in university history. This accomplishment has allowed me to join a
distinguished group of Villanova Student Body Presidents who were tasked with representing the voices, ideas, and perspectives of all their undergraduate peers. Additionally, unlike many other Villanovans, I have the opportunity to attend Villanova as an undergraduate and law student. As a prospective “Supernova,” I will spend seven consecutive years as a student at our illustrious university. This extended time will allow me to make greater contributions to Villanova.
Through my endeavors, I have learned how supportive and consistent the Villanova
community is. I would not be able to create meaningful change at Villanova without the
encouragement and trust from peers, professors, administrators, and alumni. I have also learned to immerse myself in new experiences as much as possible. Villanovans have helped open doors to internships, trips, and connections I never imagined. Being open-minded has helped me maximize these opportunities and create a richer experience at Villanova. I am fortunate to have a robust network because of my willingness to get involved in various areas.
ESSAY #9
Every morning, I wake up and go for a run. It is the only hour of absolute silence I get every day. Being able to see the sun rise over the Finneran Pavillion and the rest of the campus slowly get lit up by the sun, is something I never take for granted. My Villanova experience is not one many Villanovans can say they had. First of all, it has felt like I have been here for years or even a decade. From the professors to all of the students, I feel like I have known these people my entire life. However, I have only been here for soon-to-be four semesters. As an editor of the student newspaper, The Villanovan, I have had to opportunity to tell so many stories about this University that might have gone untold. I love that Villanova feels like a high school. Everyone somehow seems to know everyone, yet every day there is a chance to meet someone new or learn something new. Even though it feels like I have been here for a long time, I am grateful to know that I have at least four more semesters to enjoy this place.
ESSAY #10
When I arrived at Villanova, I wasn’t sure exactly where I’d fit in. I had big goals—building a career in sports and sales—but I also wanted to make an impact beyond the classroom. What makes my Villanova story different is how I’ve found success not just through academics but through hands-on experience, leadership, and community.
As a communications major, I’ve learned that meaningful connections drive success. That lesson became real during my internship with the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, where I saw firsthand how relationships fuel the sports industry. Soon, I’ll take that knowledge into my sales internship at Medline, continuing to develop the adaptability and confidence Villanova has given me.
But my story isn’t just about career preparation—it’s about leadership and growth. As an orientation counselor, I guided new students through the same uncertainties I once faced, helping them find their own paths. In Club Swim, I started as just another teammate, but now, as Vice President and soon-to-be President, I’m leading and shaping a team I love.
Villanova has been more than a university to me—it has been a place where I’ve found my confidence and my future.
ESSAY #11
Walking through Villanova’s campus, you immediately feel the profound presence of Catholic tradition with crucifixes adorning every classroom, crosses crowning the buildings, and weekly Masses held at the Villanova Church. For many, this religious foundation offers comfort and guidance. However, as a Jewish freshman at Villanova, I felt a sense of detachment from my classmates, acutely aware of my differences. Seeking a sense of belonging, I joined Villanova Hillel during my freshman year, and later that same year, I assumed the role of president. Over the past four years, I have helped expand our membership from just five students to over 75 active participants. Under my leadership, we have hosted academic panels on antisemitism, organized annual Hanukkah celebrations that welcome students and faculty, facilitated faculty-student bagel brunches, and hosted biweekly shabbats to strengthen our Jewish community. Beyond Hillel, I have engaged with Villanova’s Mission and Ministry through interfaith events, fostering dialogues that celebrate diverse traditions with other cultural groups on campus. Navigating my Jewish identity in a predominantly Catholic environment deepened my commitment to inclusivity. My experience leading interfaith and intercultural conversations has reinforced my dedication to cultivating spaces where diverse perspectives are not only acknowledged but truly valued.
ESSAY #12
Over 200 words. Disqualified from the contest.
ESSAY #13
My Villanova story is unique because I’ve witnessed the community not just in its brightest moments, but also at its lowest. As a volunteer EMT for Villanova EMS, I saw students in moments of distress—facing pain, uncertainty, and fear. Villanova is often portrayed as a lively, spirited place, but behind that energy are individuals navigating personal battles. These experiences showed me a side of the university that many don’t often see, and while some might find it disheartening, I found it inspiring.
What makes Villanova special isn’t just the school spirit or traditions—it’s the resilience of its people. I saw students who, despite setbacks, found the strength to move forward. Whether it was recovering from an injury, managing mental health struggles, or simply feeling overwhelmed, they leaned on their peers and pushed through. It taught me that struggle is universal, but so is the determination to overcome it. More than anything, I learned that Villanova’s greatest strength is its people—their ability to support one another, to grow from their challenges, and to emerge stronger. That unwavering resolve to find happiness, even in the face of hardship, is what makes this community invaluable.
ESSAY #14
My time at Villanova has been a dream come true and I do mean that literally - ever since I was a kid, my dream was to go to Villanova (I have family that’s gone here, my dad’s gone here) and it has better than I’ve even dreamed. I’ve met amazing friends, been a part of some great student organizations and truly grown in all facets. As a leader, a student, a friend, a human being, I’ve truly found myself in a way that in high school, I never thought possible. I’ve gone from wearing beige to wearing the brightest colors possible and making the absolute most of every moment here at Nova - after all, we’ve all got to stop and smell the roses sometime eh?
ESSAY #15
Villanova was the first university I toured, and I immediately knew it was the right place for me. As soon as I arrived on campus, I made it my priority to get as involved in the campus community as possible. As an individual passionate about inclusion, I joined VUPride's Steering Committee, became a Blue Key inclusion chair, and even joined Admitted Students Day DEI Subcommittee. I knew that I wanted to help other prospective students feel as included and at home here as I did, and I have made it my priority to help others find their place within the Villanova community. Being a part of this campus has definitely taught me the importance of community; Villanovans truly hold the door for one another. From seeing people I know across campus, to professors who strive to help me succeed, to a variety of organizations filled with passionate people, I have come to better understand the value of community. Through my reminding time here at Villanova, I want to continue to work towards building this community. All are welcome here at Villanova, regardless of background, and I hope that I can help positively shape the future of the Villanova community.
CAST YOUR VOTE HERE
Voting ends at 7:00PM EST on Wednesday, March 26th.
Winner will be notified by no later than 10PM on Wednesday, March 26th.
Final selection will be posted no later than 10pm on Wednesday March 26th to both the Villanova Basketball (Non-Members) Forum & NovaNation Forum and via social media (FB/Instagram/Twitter).
Link to google form to vote for the 2025 Villanova Student Essay Contest
ESSAY #1
My time at Villanova has been marked by meaningful service experiences that have shaped my understanding of community, inclusion, connection. As a freshman, I participated in RUIBAL, an after-school program, where I worked with children to play games and provide mentorship. It was incredibly rewarding to develop connections with the kids I served. This year, I have taken on a leadership role in SciTime with COV, which involves teaching students science concepts through fun experiments. Leading this initiative has taught me the importance of collaboration, patience, and creativity in fostering a positive learning environment. I also volunteer with the Media & Publicity Inclusion Crew for Special Olympics. Over the past two years, this experience has allowed me to connect with athletes and promote inclusivity. Special Olympics is always so much fun and I am so happy to be a small part of it. Together, these experiences have instilled in me a lifelong commitment to service, empathy, and fostering meaningful relationships.
ESSAY #2
When I first arrived at Villanova, I saw it as an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. I was eager to find ways to challenge myself and explore new opportunities that would help me develop the skills I needed to succeed in the future. From studying abroad in Italy and creating a social justice documentary in the Philippines to founding the Association of Black Communications Students (ABCS), organizing events, and honing my content creation skills, Villanova has provided countless opportunities to step outside my comfort zone and create a vision for my future career.
ESSAY #3
Ever since I was little, I dreamed about attending Villanova, my parents’ alma mater. I remember the excitement that shot through my body on December 14th, 2022 when I was accepted into Villanova for Nursing. It had always been a goal of mine to become a Wildcat, and in that moment I was able to make it a reality. It is crazy to think about how I am almost a junior, which means that I am also almost halfway through my college experience. As a current Blue Key tour guide, one of my favorite aspects to bring up about Villanova is the true sense of community on campus. One aspect that brightens my day can be seen through the door-holding that is done around campus daily where you can make light conversation and have this mutually beneficial thing done for you. I think this aspect emphasizes the unity throughout campus and the outgoing nature of the students which I greatly enjoy. Sharing these stories with hopeful future Villanovans makes my story unique and teaches me that little acts of kindness make a big difference. Thank you for your consideration.
ESSAY #4
My Villanova story started far from perfect. It took me a while to get settled in Freshman year, never really gelled with the kids in my hall so it was a tough start. That all changed when I was introduced to Special Olympics. This event has transformed my life. It has shown me what a true community is and what it feels like to be included. After experiencing Fall Fest freshman year, I applied for Special Olympics Committee and am now on the committee for the third year. I have met life long friends on committee and learned life long skills like leadership, communication, and relationship-building, all in effort to form the best weekend ever for the Special Olympics athletes. Special Olympics made me find my home at Villanova, and I learned that the best things do not always come instantly. I did not find my home in Villanova for a while, but once I found my home, my people, Villanova quickly became the greatest spot on Earth. I would not trade my experience for the world and am excited for one more great year on campus.
ESSAY #5
My first two years at Villanova can be summed up in one word: hard. Anything and everything was just difficult. The classes, making friends, joining clubs and learning how to adjust to life away from home was too much for me to handle. As cliche as it may sound, what truly turned my Villanova experience around was the care and support from my classmates and the University staff. During my lowest point in college thus far, I found trust in a friend who was able to point me in the correct direction on where to get the help I needed. The staff in the counseling center and residence life worked with me when I was not ready to work with them and held my hand every step I needed to take to make sure I was in a safe and healthy place to continue in my Villanova journey. Something I have learned in recent years is that it is okay to admit when help is needed, and that the help can truly transform your life. The call I made 360 days ago today saved my life and turned my Villanova experience around for the better. I couldn’t be more grateful.
ESSAY #6
Villanova has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. My journey here started in an unexpected place—my high school cafeteria. During a lunchtime talent show, I had 30 seconds to showcase my best skill for a $20 BW3 gift card. As a former gymnast, I knew exactly what to do. I sprinted across the lunchroom and tumbled from one end to the other. That moment not only won me the gift card but also caught the attention of my school’s diving coach. I joined the team shortly after and, a year later, committed to Villanova. But my dream of Villanova started long before that. In seventh grade, I put a Villanova sticker in my bedroom window, hoping one day I’d be here. Now, as a third-year student-athlete on the Men’s Swim and Dive team, I can confidently say that one small decision changed my life. Villanova has pushed me beyond my comfort zone—leading a student-athlete Bible study, serving as an RA, and embracing academic challenges. Growth comes from taking risks, and my greatest lessons have come from stepping into the unknown. Villanova has shaped me into a better person, and for that, I am grateful.
ESSAY #7
As I reflect on the past four years, my Villanova story stems directly from being involved in the community. Every opportunity has taught me to enjoy the moment, to take the time to listen to the Corr bell after mass, to grab Panera Bread with my horse lesson group, to write an article that made a difference.
Throughout my time here I was a part of The Villanovan, Villanova Television, Majors Fair Committee, Equestrian Team, Faith and Learning Scholar, and Villanova Pastoral Musicians. I could write a 35-page paper on what each of these clubs did for me individually, but as a whole they showed me that the members within the groups were my school family.
Between working on my future journalism career, continuing my passion of singing, building on my catholic faith, competing in horse shows, or helping freshman find their major or minor, the four years really flew by. All I can feel is sadness that I don’t have four more years to build an even better me.
So, when I’m at the anchor desk five years from now and someone asks me why Villanova? The answer will be simple, Villanova is home.
ESSAY #8
A unique aspect of my Villanova story is that I made history as the first black Student
Body President in university history. This accomplishment has allowed me to join a
distinguished group of Villanova Student Body Presidents who were tasked with representing the voices, ideas, and perspectives of all their undergraduate peers. Additionally, unlike many other Villanovans, I have the opportunity to attend Villanova as an undergraduate and law student. As a prospective “Supernova,” I will spend seven consecutive years as a student at our illustrious university. This extended time will allow me to make greater contributions to Villanova.
Through my endeavors, I have learned how supportive and consistent the Villanova
community is. I would not be able to create meaningful change at Villanova without the
encouragement and trust from peers, professors, administrators, and alumni. I have also learned to immerse myself in new experiences as much as possible. Villanovans have helped open doors to internships, trips, and connections I never imagined. Being open-minded has helped me maximize these opportunities and create a richer experience at Villanova. I am fortunate to have a robust network because of my willingness to get involved in various areas.
ESSAY #9
Every morning, I wake up and go for a run. It is the only hour of absolute silence I get every day. Being able to see the sun rise over the Finneran Pavillion and the rest of the campus slowly get lit up by the sun, is something I never take for granted. My Villanova experience is not one many Villanovans can say they had. First of all, it has felt like I have been here for years or even a decade. From the professors to all of the students, I feel like I have known these people my entire life. However, I have only been here for soon-to-be four semesters. As an editor of the student newspaper, The Villanovan, I have had to opportunity to tell so many stories about this University that might have gone untold. I love that Villanova feels like a high school. Everyone somehow seems to know everyone, yet every day there is a chance to meet someone new or learn something new. Even though it feels like I have been here for a long time, I am grateful to know that I have at least four more semesters to enjoy this place.
ESSAY #10
When I arrived at Villanova, I wasn’t sure exactly where I’d fit in. I had big goals—building a career in sports and sales—but I also wanted to make an impact beyond the classroom. What makes my Villanova story different is how I’ve found success not just through academics but through hands-on experience, leadership, and community.
As a communications major, I’ve learned that meaningful connections drive success. That lesson became real during my internship with the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, where I saw firsthand how relationships fuel the sports industry. Soon, I’ll take that knowledge into my sales internship at Medline, continuing to develop the adaptability and confidence Villanova has given me.
But my story isn’t just about career preparation—it’s about leadership and growth. As an orientation counselor, I guided new students through the same uncertainties I once faced, helping them find their own paths. In Club Swim, I started as just another teammate, but now, as Vice President and soon-to-be President, I’m leading and shaping a team I love.
Villanova has been more than a university to me—it has been a place where I’ve found my confidence and my future.
ESSAY #11
Walking through Villanova’s campus, you immediately feel the profound presence of Catholic tradition with crucifixes adorning every classroom, crosses crowning the buildings, and weekly Masses held at the Villanova Church. For many, this religious foundation offers comfort and guidance. However, as a Jewish freshman at Villanova, I felt a sense of detachment from my classmates, acutely aware of my differences. Seeking a sense of belonging, I joined Villanova Hillel during my freshman year, and later that same year, I assumed the role of president. Over the past four years, I have helped expand our membership from just five students to over 75 active participants. Under my leadership, we have hosted academic panels on antisemitism, organized annual Hanukkah celebrations that welcome students and faculty, facilitated faculty-student bagel brunches, and hosted biweekly shabbats to strengthen our Jewish community. Beyond Hillel, I have engaged with Villanova’s Mission and Ministry through interfaith events, fostering dialogues that celebrate diverse traditions with other cultural groups on campus. Navigating my Jewish identity in a predominantly Catholic environment deepened my commitment to inclusivity. My experience leading interfaith and intercultural conversations has reinforced my dedication to cultivating spaces where diverse perspectives are not only acknowledged but truly valued.
ESSAY #12
Over 200 words. Disqualified from the contest.
ESSAY #13
My Villanova story is unique because I’ve witnessed the community not just in its brightest moments, but also at its lowest. As a volunteer EMT for Villanova EMS, I saw students in moments of distress—facing pain, uncertainty, and fear. Villanova is often portrayed as a lively, spirited place, but behind that energy are individuals navigating personal battles. These experiences showed me a side of the university that many don’t often see, and while some might find it disheartening, I found it inspiring.
What makes Villanova special isn’t just the school spirit or traditions—it’s the resilience of its people. I saw students who, despite setbacks, found the strength to move forward. Whether it was recovering from an injury, managing mental health struggles, or simply feeling overwhelmed, they leaned on their peers and pushed through. It taught me that struggle is universal, but so is the determination to overcome it. More than anything, I learned that Villanova’s greatest strength is its people—their ability to support one another, to grow from their challenges, and to emerge stronger. That unwavering resolve to find happiness, even in the face of hardship, is what makes this community invaluable.
ESSAY #14
My time at Villanova has been a dream come true and I do mean that literally - ever since I was a kid, my dream was to go to Villanova (I have family that’s gone here, my dad’s gone here) and it has better than I’ve even dreamed. I’ve met amazing friends, been a part of some great student organizations and truly grown in all facets. As a leader, a student, a friend, a human being, I’ve truly found myself in a way that in high school, I never thought possible. I’ve gone from wearing beige to wearing the brightest colors possible and making the absolute most of every moment here at Nova - after all, we’ve all got to stop and smell the roses sometime eh?
ESSAY #15
Villanova was the first university I toured, and I immediately knew it was the right place for me. As soon as I arrived on campus, I made it my priority to get as involved in the campus community as possible. As an individual passionate about inclusion, I joined VUPride's Steering Committee, became a Blue Key inclusion chair, and even joined Admitted Students Day DEI Subcommittee. I knew that I wanted to help other prospective students feel as included and at home here as I did, and I have made it my priority to help others find their place within the Villanova community. Being a part of this campus has definitely taught me the importance of community; Villanovans truly hold the door for one another. From seeing people I know across campus, to professors who strive to help me succeed, to a variety of organizations filled with passionate people, I have come to better understand the value of community. Through my reminding time here at Villanova, I want to continue to work towards building this community. All are welcome here at Villanova, regardless of background, and I hope that I can help positively shape the future of the Villanova community.
CAST YOUR VOTE HERE