Essay Questions
Below are the essay questions on each program application. Students can begin thinking about their responses to essay questions before beginning their application. **Please note: Parents should not assist or complete the essays for their GATE student.
Academic Year Programs
ACE: Chinese Language
Please describe your previous experiences in learning Chinese language.
Have you taken any Chinese language proficiency tests (e.g. HSK/YCT, ACTFL/AAPPL)? If yes, what test did you take and what score did you get?
Have you been to China before? If yes, where and how long?
Why are you interested in learning Chinese?
ALL: Latin
In at least 2 paragraphs written in English, please describe why you wish to enroll in the ALL program and your experiences with the Latin language (if any).
CHAMP: Math
CHAMP does not have an essay question, but you will be asked about which math topics you have already studied, and which math books you have used.
ISHALL: English
Why do you think the ISHALL program is a good fit for your learning style, your interests, and/or your academic plans? Please also specify what you hope to gain beyond advanced/accelerated credits. Please write 1-2 developed paragraphs in response to this question.
M.A.N.G.A.: Japanese
In at least 2 paragraphs written in English, please describe why you wish to enroll in the M.A.N.G.A. program and your experiences with the Japanese language (if any).
Summer Programs
GUPPY 3-4 and GUPPY 5-6
GUPPY applicants must complete this essay independently. In at least two paragraphs, please write about the following topics:
1) Why you would like to participate in the GUPPY program
2) Describe any extracurricular or advanced activities you have participated in and why you enjoyed them
IS4GT (Grades 6-11)
1) Please explain why you are interested in participating in this intensive summer program.
MST@MSU (Grades 7-8)
In at least two paragraphs, please describe the following:
1) Why would you like to participate in MST@MSU?
2) Why do you feel you should be selected for MST@MSU?
MSTL (Grades 9-10)
In at least two paragraphs, please describe the following:
1) Why would you like to participate in MSTL?
2) Why do you feel you should be selected for MSTL?