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Everything You Need to Know About Applying to Macaulay Honors

Eric Dayts, a college senior at Macaulay Hunter, gives insight on the selection process at Macaulay Honors and how he interviews applicants.

Raisa Barshai , Staff Reporter | November 17, 2021

Here is the Class of 2022 at Macaulay Honors College at Hunter. “When applying to Macaulay, I ultimately decided on Hunter College as my school of choice, partly because I could see the diversity among the students in the class photos,” said Eric Dayts.

The prospect of a debt free college experience seems like a myth to most Americans, yet at Macaulay Honors, it has become a reality. New York City is one of the largest cities in the world and home to some of America’s top colleges and universities. Macaulay Honors gives students a chance to receive a high quality education with free tuition, while also receiving specialized care and attention from faculty. 

Because of Macaulay’s prestige and the limited number of seats available, it has a record low acceptance rate of 5% as of 2021. Macaulay Honors has consistently received the highest ratings for a public university honors college, and their students have received over 250 prestigious awards. There are 8 CUNY schools to choose from when applying to the Macaulay Honors program, all offering different majors. Hunter College is one of the most popular colleges to study at among Macaulay students, as it has a wide variety of majors and a beautiful campus located right outside of Gramercy Park in Manhattan. Hunter College is also known for its excellent dormitories and its status as a liberal arts school. 

Eric Dayts is now a senior at Macaulay Hunter College on the Pre-med track, and he is also both a freshman mentor and a student interviewer. Dayts came into Macaulay Hunter undecided for his major, but eventually chose to major in Biochemistry. He said that Macaulay Honors in general is very flexible in terms of a student being able to change majors, so he was able to explore his interests and change majors with ease. Applicants who are undecided do not have to worry about choosing a major right away, as Macaulay Honors will give you the opportunity to explore your interests once you get there. 

Dayts has received numerous opportunities through Macaulay’s mentorship program, including lab work, early acceptance to the University of Rochester’s Medical school, and having the MCAT requirement waived. His mentor from his freshman year helped him tremendously in navigating through Macaulay Hunter College and connecting him with labs and internships, as well as giving advice about going to med school. Dayts is a freshman mentor himself now, as well as a student interviewer. 

“The advisors at Macaulay are very adamant about your success, and the peer mentor systems help make the school a strong and supportive environment,” Dayts said.

As a student interviewer, Dayts has talked to many talented applicants, and he is responsible for giving admissions officers information about the students whom he thinks are “the future leaders of New York.” Macaulay Honors, and Hunter College specifically, takes interviews very seriously as part of their holistic review process. Macaulay wants applicants to show their interests, extracurriculars, and genuine self when interviewing, so the admissions officers know how you would fit into their community. Interviewer’s opinions on applicants are considered heavily, so making a good impression in the interview increases your chances of getting accepted. CUNY schools also do not review SAT/ACT scores at all anymore, so everyone has a chance to apply and to get a spot at the school without worrying about standardized test scores. 

“I would say that each part of your application is reviewed equally. One third of the weight is on your academic transcript, your essays are one third, and your interview is one third. Each aspect of your application is reviewed in a way that places an emphasis on who you are as a person, which is why we place so much emphasis on what you say in your interview and supplemental essays,” explained Dayts.

Dayts has seen the diversity of Macaulay Honors in Hunter College increase with each passing year, mainly because the interviews themselves have diversified. Part of what makes the admissions process so fair at Macaulay is the fact that current students get to play a pivotal role in choosing who they want to be admitted into the next class. 

Macaulay Honors also has a unique curriculum that places emphasis on learning the history of New York City. A part of this curriculum includes mandatory seminars that give students the opportunity to participate in group discussions about everything that makes New York City unique. There are four seminars that students must participate in as a part of their curriculum: The arts of NYC, immigration of NYC, science of NYC, and the development of NYC. 

“These classes are great because they give students the opportunity to connect more with the professors who teach these classes, and encourage students to participate in group discussions rather than just listening to lectures,” Dayts said.

Many high school students across the country are currently stressed about college applications, especially during the  COVID-19 pandemic where many people have suffered both financially and mentally. Now more than ever, it is important for students to look into applying for colleges that will support them both financially and academically. Anyone who is a New York City resident has the opportunity to receive a full merit scholarship, making Macaulay Honors a perfect opportunity for talented students to achieve their goals with the support they need.

“The advisors at Macaulay are very adamant about your success, and the peer mentor systems help make the school a strong and supportive environment,” Eric Dayts said, a college senior at Macaulay Hunter.

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• Macaulay Honors

Raisa Barshai is the Spotlight Section editor for ‘The Science Survey.' She loves the freedom that journalistic writing gives her, allowing her to learn...

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Macaulay Honors College FAQs

How do i become a macaulay honors college student.

If you are a prospective first-year student, you apply online through the CUNY Macaulay Honors College Application , (not the General CUNY Application), and rank your campus choices. Be aware that ranking matters. If you want to come to Queens College, please place us as your first choice to receive the best consideration.

Can transfers or continuing students become Macaulay Honors College students?

Unfortunately no, students who have attended classes at a post-secondary institution after high school are not eligible for Macaulay Honors College. 

If you are a transfer student you should consider applying to the Transfer Honors Program at Queens College. The Queens College Transfer Honors Program (THP) offers scholarships and academic support for highly motivated and creative prospective students who wish to complete their bachelor’s degree at a world-class college that challenges them to do their best. Please use this application.

So, I’m not eligible for honors; are there other scholarships or special programs available to me?

Yes, there are many such opportunities for Queens College students. These include the Freshman Honors Program , Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship Program (MMUF) , Business in Liberal Arts (BALA) , Honors in the Math and Natural Sciences , Honors in the Humanities, Honors in Social Sciences. If you have additional questions about scholarships or honors you can additionally reach out to the Office of Honors and Scholarships .

Are Macaulay Honors College students eligible for other scholarships and special programs?

Yes, many Macaulay Honors College students participate in the programs mentioned above or other special programs, depending on their interests and career goals.

Do Macaulay Honors College students take all their classes together?

Macaulay Honors College students at Queens College take the following courses together:

• HNRS 101 (Honors Colloquium)
• ENG 110H: English Composition (EC1 Required Core: Pathways or general education requirements) 
• HNRS 125: The Arts in New York City
• HNRS 126W: The Peopling of New York City
• HNRS 225: Science & Technology in New York City
• HNRS 226: Shaping the Future of New York City 

When Macaulay Honors College students take additional Pathways courses and courses in their majors, their classmates are other Queens College students. Some departments offer Honors courses usually designated with an H (i.e. ENGL 130H), in which many students will come from the various honors programs on campus. 

As a Macaulay Honors College student, how do I enroll in courses?

You must meet with your Honors advisor during pre-registration to discuss your schedule for the upcoming semester. Honors courses specifically are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis. Early appointmets are encouraged. 

Do Macaulay Honors College students receive priority registration?

Yes, Macaulay Honors College students at Queens College have first-day registration privileges.

Can Macaulay Honors College students be dismissed from their program?

Yes, in order to remain in good standing, Macaulay students must achieve a 3.3 GPA at the end of freshman year; from sophomore year until graduation, they must maintain a 3.5 GPA. To be full-time in Macaulay, students must enroll in at least 15 credits of course work per semester. Not meeting these requirements can mean a status change from “Good Standing” to Warming, Probation or Dismissal. 

Are Macaulay Honors College students required to complete a senior honors thesis.

All Macaulay Honors students must complete a senior project in their major, whether a traditional thesis or another capstone project appropriate to their studies. Students are required to identify a full-time faculty member in their department to supervise their work. You can talk with your Honors Advisor as well as faculty and departmental advisors for suggestions.

What are the other requirements for Macaulay Honors College students?

Macaulay students must:

*Complete 10 hours of community service by the end of their first three academic years (10 hours after freshman year etc.) for a total of 30 hours.

*Complete honors in their major. You can talk with your Honors Advisor as well as faculty and departmental advisors for suggestions. 

*Complete an approved experiential learning activity (Study Abroad, Internship, Research). You must speak with your Honors advisor to ensure your activity meets appropriate guidelines.

*Complete 12 credits in approved Honors Coursework. Students are encouraged to choose an honors track (BALA, HMNS, HTH, HSS)

How can I learn about undergraduate research and internship opportunities for honors students?

Macaulay students receive “Macaulay Monday” communications from the central Macaulay office, the Macaulay Honors College at Queens College Office emails weekly announcements to our students, and Queens College send emails regularly. These emails contain a wealth of information about upcoming deadlines, events, internships, volunteer opportunites and academic opportunities. Read these emails regularly and thoroughly!

How can I learn about study abroad programs?

Macaulay Honors students participate in programs offered by Queens College, CUNY, and other colleges and universities. Begin your search with our campus Study Abroad office and the CUNY Study Abroad website.

How can I learn about national scholarships and fellowships for graduate school?

Macaulay Honors students, among other Queens College undergraduates, have been successful recipients of the following: Boren Scholarship, Beinecke Sholarship​ Program, Goldwater Scholarship Program, National Science Foundation and Fulbright Fellowship Program. 

Dr. Egan, the National Fellowships Advisor here at Queens College, maintains a file of national fellowships, scholarships and internships for students. She can be reached:

Dr. Moira Egan National Fellowships Advisor Honors Hall, Rm 23 718-997-2863 [email protected]

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Honors Center

Macaulay Honors College

About the program.

The Macaulay Honors College (MHC) was founded in 2001 by former Chancellor Matthew Goldstein to attract exceptional students to the City University of New York. As a CUNY-wide program,  Macaulay Honors College  currently includes Honors Centers at eight of the senior colleges of CUNY as well as a central building on Manhattan’s upper west side.  

Students admitted to Macaulay have dual affiliation with the Honors College and their CUNY home campus. The MHC program at The City College of New York helps students achieve the highest levels of academic accomplishment, and fosters cross-campus community, career exploration, service, and leadership.  

Macaulay students at City College can expect the following benefits: 

Full-tuition scholarships for New York State residents* 

Access to Macaulay’s opportunities fund to pursue study abroad and other experiential learning research and interning experiences 

Enrollment in special interdisciplinary Honors seminars using NYC as resource and text 

A "cultural passport" providing entrance to New York City’s many cultural venues and museums, including concert, theater, and art venues 

Intensive mentoring and advisement from dedicated honors advisors and faculty 

First-day registration privileges 

Use of the Honors Lounge for study and social events 

Peer mentoring from experienced upper-level students in the program 

*The scholarship covers tuition (university Fees are covered out-of-pocket by the student). The amount of the scholarship is equal to tuition cost less any PELL, TAP, NYS HESC Scholarships, NYC Council Merit Scholarship, and other tuition-only scholarships received, if applicable. To receive the MHC scholarship, students must meet CUNY NYS residency requirements. For out-of-state students, c lick here for CUNY Tuition and Fees.

In order to be considered for the Macaulay Scholarship, you must complete the free application for  Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and a  NYS Tuition Assistance Program  (TAP) application. 

Eligibility 

The Macaulay Honors College program at City College admits only new first-year students. Admission is highly competitive. Students in any major may be accepted into Macaulay. Students accepted into both the Macaulay Honors College and the Sophie Davis School for Biomedical Education B.S./M.D. program (which requires a special application) cannot enroll in both programs and must select one.  

Admission 

Students must apply by special application, AVAILABLE ONLY ONLINE at  https://macaulay.cuny.edu/admissions/applying-to-macaulay/ .  Please check the Macaulay website for application deadlines which vary from year to year. Students applying to the Macaulay Honors College need not file a regular admission application to CUNY. This is an “all-purpose application” applying to The Macaulay Honors College, the Honors Program at City College, and the City College of New York application. 

Curricular and Extra-curricular Requirements  

All Macaulay Honors College students take four special interdisciplinary seminars focusing on NYC and fulfill additional liberal arts general education requirements in the City College Honors program (depending on their major). In the upper division (junior and senior years), students may take additional honors college sponsored courses and must complete a senior capstone project. Students also must complete at least one of the following—an interning, research, or study abroad experience. Macaulay is committed to community service and students are required to document a minimum of 30 hours of volunteer service before completing their four-year program. 

Retention Criteria 

To maintain good standing in the program, students are expected to achieve a minimum term G.P.A. of 3.3. for each of the first three semesters, and a minimum term G.P.A. of 3.5 for each ensuing semester until graduation.  

For additional details about the Macaulay Honors College, please visit:  https://macaulay.cuny.edu/   

Last Updated: 01/12/2023 14:13

Apply to the Honors Program

Qualifications — who we’re looking for.

The Honors Program is competitive. Our standards are high. Good grades are important but far from the most important trait. You are a solid candidate for the Honors Program if:

• You are up for an academic challenge — and ready to work hard in a community of bright, determined students and faculty

• You have the courage to explore and take a stand on social and ethical issues regarding justice, race, media, education, crime, law and social change

• You are curious, open-minded, and willing to consider different points of view, listen to others and engage in probing dialogue with professors and peers

• You have potential to be a leader — with a burning desire to shape ideas, influence people and change systems

• You have high aspirations in life — and want to do something important for yourself and to have a positive impact on your community

Eligibility & Requirements

Admission depends on high school GPA (minimum 89), writing sample, letters of recommendation and an interview. Students who meet the requirements below will be invited to apply to the program. Students must apply to the Honors Program through the official application . The application is open for Continuing Student and Transfer applications.

The Entering Freshman application is now closed.

The Deadline for Continuing Student and Transfer applications is April 15th 2024

Entering Freshmen (for students who have never attended college)

• Minimum high school average of  89 . This is computed by our Admissions Office as the “college admission average" (CAA).
• Students with a complete application by the deadline and who meet the criteria above will be granted an interview. Students that fall just below these cutoffs may still apply but are not guaranteed an interview.
• The decision to interview students that fall just below the minimum requirement is based on the strength of their essays, letters of recommendation and number and variety of extracurricular activities.
• Admissions decisions are made based on the entire application package: grades,  essays, letters, activities, and the interview.

Currently Enrolled Students (for students who are currently enrolled in college)

• Cumulative GPA: 3.3 or higher
• Sophomores must have accumulated 30-45 credits; juniors must have accumulated 60-75 credits by the end of the spring 2024 semester.
• One letter of recommendation from a faculty member.
• Student transcript
• Finalists will be interviewed by a representative of the Honors faculty

Transfer Students (students who will begin studying at John Jay in the spring semester)

• Sophomores must have accumulated 30-45 credits; juniors must have accumulated 60-75 credits by the end of the spring 2024 semester.
• One letter of recommendation from a faculty member
• Official transcript
• Finalists will be interviewed by a representative of the Honors faculty 

Macaulay Honors College

Macaulay Honors College offers exceptional students the advantages of a small liberal arts college within a comprehensive research university.

Selected for their outstanding academic merit and leadership potential, Macaulay students receive a full-tuition scholarship*, enhanced curriculum and advisement, technology tools and training, and support from the Macaulay Opportunities Fund to fund global learning, service, and research. At Brooklyn College, Macaulay students become a part of the Honors Academy, a community of honors students who share ideas, academic resources, and mentorship opportunities. Our students are very much like the borough we call home—among the most diverse in the CUNY system, and eager to meet academic challenges with a vibrant intelligence.

*Students must meet CUNY New York State residency requirements for in-state tuition to receive the full-tuition scholarship.

• Macaulay Honors College at CUNY

Contact Information

Director: Lisa Schwebel

2231 Boylan Hall P: 718.951.4114 E: [email protected]

Brooklyn. All in.

Freshman Applicants

Welcome high schoolers! A quick note: these steps are designed for current high school seniors, but that doesn't mean you can't get familiar with the application process.

We make decisions on a rolling basis.

CUNY Application Requirements

Recommended application materials.

After you submit your completed application, the admissions review process begins. Mailed documents should be submitted to the University Application Processing Center (UAPC) with  your CUNYfirst ID#  to the following address: CUNY/UAPC P.O. Box 350136 Brooklyn, NY 11235

Admissions Decisions

Decisions are e-mailed on a rolling basis after the priority deadline. We examine your entire high school academic records, including difficulty of classes, GPA and grade trends. We also look at the strength of your standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, NY State Regents) and any additional supporting documents including the recommended essay, and letters of recommendation. Applications submitted after the priority deadline will be considered on a space available basis. You can check the status of your application by logging into your  CUNYfirst account  and selecting 'Student Center' then 'Admissions' then 'View Details.' You can also call the CUNY Welcome Center at  (212) 997-2869.

For further information, see CUNY's information on admission decisions here.

Macaulay Honors Program

Fall Deadline (no early decision or action) >> December 2, 2019 at 6:00 PM (EST).

Two-step notification process:

1) Beginning in mid-February applicants will be notified of their admission decision as General Freshman by all college choices listed on their application.

2) March 16 – Macaulay applicants will be notified of their admission decision into Macaulay Honors College by only one of the college choices listed on their application.

The  Macaulay Honors College  application is available online. The Macaulay application requires  test scores, two essays  and  two letters of recommendation.  If Baruch is your first choice for honors, make sure to list it as such on your application.

Students applying to Macaulay may also be considered for the Baruch Honors program and other merit-based scholarships. For more information please visit:  Baruch Honors.

International Students

The deadlines we have listed for the CUNY applications are Priority Deadlines for applicants within the United States. We suggest international students have their applications completed and sent in at least 4 weeks prior to the deadline. Applications will not be processed until all required documents have been received. Please refer to the  following site  for specific instructions. If you have graduated from a high school/secondary school outside the U.S. not listed above, you are required to submit your complete academic record (all years), as well as any national or government certificates earned. We accept photocopies of secondary school transcripts, diplomas, mark sheets and/or secondary external examination certificates. Please review the list of  Required Secondary School Credentials.

SEEK Program

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In order to be considered, students must indicate their interest in SEEK on the Freshman application. If academic requirements are met, applicants will be asked to submit supporting documents to prove financial eligibility. Refer to the following site for  eligibility requirements.

Home — Application Essay — University — Macaulay Honors College

Macaulay Honors College Admission Essays

Embarking on the path to admission to Macaulay Honors College necessitates the development of compelling essays that genuinely reflect your distinct qualities and aspirations. These essays function as a crucial gateway, providing a robust platform to articulately express your goals and establish a substantive connection with the core values of Macaulay Honors College. To enhance your strategic approach, consider a thorough examination of exemplar Macaulay Honors essay examples. Such analysis not only yields valuable insights into effective storytelling but also serves as a practical guide for adeptly navigating the nuanced process of crafting impactful essays that resonate discerningly with the admissions committee.

Main Facts about Macaulay Honors College Essays

To gain entry into Macaulay Honors College, a nuanced comprehension of the pivotal role essays play in the application process is essential. These essays not only provide insights into your character and aspirations but also craft a compelling narrative that sets you apart from other applicants. The significance of Macaulay Honors College essay examples becomes evident in grasping the intricacies of the application process. Let's explore key facts that shed light on the importance of Macaulay Honors College essays, offering a comprehensive understanding for prospective candidates.

• Reflective Narratives: Essays provide insight into character, goals, and experiences.
• Uniqueness: They are an opportunity to showcase what makes you stand out.
• Holistic Evaluation: Essays contribute significantly to the overall evaluation of applicants.
• Alignment with Values: Successful essays align with Macaulay's mission and values.
• Authenticity Matters: Applicants should aim for authenticity and reflection in their essays.

Prospective applicants can benefit significantly from delving into Macaulay Honors College essay examples. Analyzing successful narratives provides practical insights into crafting essays that not only meet the criteria but also resonate authentically with the discerning admissions committee.

Macaulay Honors College Requirements

Embarking on the journey to Macaulay Honors College requires a meticulous understanding of the comprehensive Macaulay Honors College requirements. These prerequisites serve as the gateway to an enriching academic experience, shaping the college's commitment to excellence and holistic development. Let's delve into these requirements, each a crucial step toward joining this esteemed community of scholars:

• Academic Excellence: Aspiring students must demonstrate a robust high school record, showcasing a commitment to scholastic achievement and intellectual rigor.
• Impressive Test Scores: High SAT/ACT scores stand as a fundamental component, providing a quantitative measure of a candidate's aptitude and preparedness for collegiate-level challenges.
• Extracurricular Commitment: Active involvement in extracurricular activities and community service is not only encouraged but highly valued. This requirement underscores the college's dedication to holistic development and community engagement.
• Letters of Recommendation: Personalized letters of recommendation, thoughtfully crafted to highlight the candidate's character, academic prowess, and potential, play a pivotal role in the admissions process.
• Engaging Essays: Crafting well-written and engaging Macaulay Honors College essays is paramount. These essays serve as a platform for candidates to articulate their unique qualities, aspirations, and alignment with the college's values. Exploring impactful Macaulay essay examples can provide valuable guidance in navigating this crucial requirement.

Each requirement reflects Macaulay Honors College's commitment to assembling a diverse and dynamic community of scholars who not only excel academically but also contribute meaningfully to the broader academic and social landscape.

Macaulay Honors College Essays in the Application Process

Macaulay Honors College essays play a pivotal role in presenting a comprehensive picture of each applicant. They provide an avenue to go beyond grades and scores, allowing candidates to convey their personality, experiences, and aspirations in a nuanced and authentic manner. Admissions committees seek a genuine connection with your story, making thoughtful essay crafting crucial. Exploring impactful Macaulay Honors essay examples not only serves as a source of inspiration but also offers practical insights into effective storytelling, helping applicants navigate the intricate landscape of the application process.

Macaulay Honors College Essay Prompts for 2023

Navigating the Macaulay Honors College application process involves thoughtful responses to distinctive essay prompts that illuminate various facets of your character and aspirations. These prompts serve as a structured framework, inviting you to delve into personal experiences, challenges, and future goals. Crafting responses requires a blend of introspection and strategic storytelling, allowing you to showcase your individuality and alignment with Macaulay Honors College's values. In this exploration of the Macaulay Honors College essay prompts , we'll unravel the themes that shape the prompts for 2023, providing insights to inspire and guide your responses. Each prompt is a canvas for you to paint a vivid picture of your journey, aspirations, and unique contributions that will enrich the Macaulay Honors College community.

1. Reflect on a personal challenge: Share a significant challenge and its impact.

Example: Overcoming a language barrier ignited my passion for linguistics. Navigating a new culture and language pushed me to adapt, fostering resilience and a profound appreciation for diverse linguistic nuances. This experience not only shaped my worldview but also influenced my academic pursuits, fueling my desire to explore the intersection of language, culture, and identity.

2. Contribution to diversity: Discuss your background's impact on the Macaulay Honors College community.

Example: Growing up in a multicultural household, I celebrate diversity. My unique background has instilled in me a deep understanding of cultural intersections and the importance of fostering inclusivity. In my previous experiences, I've actively promoted cultural exchange, fostering a rich tapestry of perspectives. As a member of Macaulay Honors College, I aim to continue this commitment, contributing to a vibrant community that values and celebrates differences.

3. Academic and career aspirations: Articulate your goals and connect them with Macaulay Honors College's programs.

Example: Macaulay Honors College's research facilities align with my marine biology aspirations. My passion for marine conservation is deeply rooted in hands-on experiences, and Macaulay's state-of-the-art labs offer an ideal environment for my research pursuits. I envision collaborating with esteemed faculty and fellow students to address pressing environmental challenges. Macaulay's commitment to academic excellence aligns seamlessly with my ambition to contribute meaningfully to the field of marine biology and environmental conservation.

How to Write Macaulay Honors Essay

Crafting a successful Macaulay Honors essay involves a thoughtful approach that goes beyond mere words on paper. Aspiring applicants often wonder, "How to write a Macaulay Honors essay that stands out?" The answer lies in a strategic blend of introspection, storytelling, and alignment with the core values of Macaulay Honors College.We we'll delve into the nuances of how to write a Macaulay Honors essay , offering practical tips and insights to help you navigate this critical component of the application process. Your essay is not just a response to a prompt; it's a canvas to paint a vivid picture of your character, aspirations, and unique contributions. Let's explore the elements that make an essay impactful and effective in showcasing your individuality, leaving a lasting impression on the admissions committee:

• Understand the Prompt: Thoroughly comprehend the essay prompt to align your response effectively.
• Show, Don't Tell: Use vivid language and concrete examples to engage the reader.
• Authenticity and Reflection: Be genuine in sharing experiences, values, and aspirations.
• Connect with Macaulay's Values: Showcase how you'll contribute to the Macaulay community.
• Edit and Seek Feedback: Refine your essays through meticulous editing and seek input from mentors.

Macaulay Honors College Essay Examples

Exploring Macaulay Honors College essay examples provides invaluable inspiration and guidance for prospective applicants. Successful examples offer insights into effective storytelling, structure, and the alignment of personal narratives with Macaulay's values.

Here are ten essay topics examples:

• Overcoming Personal Challenges
• Contributions to Diversity
• Academic and Career Aspirations
• Impactful Community Service
• Passion for a Specific Field
• Leadership Experiences
• Research Initiatives
• Global Perspectives
• Innovation and Creativity
• Resilience in the Face of Adversity

These Macaulay Honors sample essays not only provide inspiration but also serve as benchmarks for crafting impactful essays that resonate with the admissions committee.

Crafting Macaulay Honors Essays: Insight from Examples

In conclusion, exploring Macaulay Honors College essay samples serves as an invaluable resource for prospective applicants. These examples provide more than a glimpse into successful narratives; they offer a compass guiding applicants through the intricate journey of crafting compelling essays. Each example unfolds a unique story, showcasing individuality, resilience, and a profound connection with the values of Macaulay Honors College.

Aspiring candidates can leverage these Macaulay Honors sample essays not as templates to replicate but as beacons illuminating effective storytelling, introspection, and alignment with the college's ethos. The significance of these examples lies in their ability to inspire creativity, encouraging applicants to articulate their personal challenges, contributions to diversity, and academic aspirations with authenticity.

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Incoming Freshmen

• Current CSI and Transfer Students  

Applications for Fall 2024 admissions are now open. We will begin reviewing applications as of February 1, 2024, and the first round of acceptances will go out in early March. We will continue to accept applications until April 30.

Eligibility: Students with high overall high school averages who demonstrate strong academic abilities and personal characteristics such as leadership, community service, creativity, talent, and enthusiasm, are encouraged to apply.  Students must demonstrate CUNY proficiency in reading, writing, and math.

Apply: You must first apply for admission to CSI using the CUNY Application. You will need the CUNYfirst ID* generated by that application to submit the Supplemental Application. As part of your application, you will need to do the following:

• Submit the Verrazzano Supplemental Application for Incoming Freshmen .
• Submit one personal essay (no more than 1 page), a resume, your high school transcript and two typed letters of recommendation (instructions on how to submit these will be included in a confirmation email generated when you complete the Supplemental Application). These must be typed. You are permitted to submit SAT scores to CUNY if you feel they would strengthen your application.

Note: if you are also applying to Macaulay Honors at CSI, we will get the letters of recommendation from your Macaulay application. You must still submit the Verrazzano essay, your resume, and your high school transcript.

*The CUNYfirst ID number (an 8-digit number) is assigned after you submit the CUNY or Common Application. You will receive information about claiming your CUNYfirst account, and the number will be found at the top of your self-service screen when you log-in to the CUNYfirst Student Center.

Apply for Scholarships: Students are strongly encouraged to submit a CSI Scholarship application . Applications are generally due to the Scholarship Office by 5 pm February 28 (but visit their website for updates).  

Current CSI and Transfer Students

Applications for Fall 2024 admissions are open. The deadline to apply is May 15, 2024

Eligibility: Current CSI or transfer students with at least a 3.3 cumulative GPA and who demonstrate strong academic abilities and characteristics such as leadership, community service, campus involvement, creativity, talent, and enthusiasm, are encouraged to apply. You must also meet the following criteria:

• Full-time enrollment in a baccalaureate program at CSI
• 3.0 GPA at CSI or other accredited university of college
• Passed or exempt from all three CUNY Assessment Tests
• Have at least two full academic years of undergraduate study remaining.  Please contact [email protected] if you have questions about your eligibility. 

Apply: If you are not currently a CSI student, you must first apply for admission to CSI . You will need the CUNYfirst ID* generated by that application to submit the Supplemental Application. As part of your application, you will need to do the following:

• Submit the Verrazzano Supplemental Application for Current CSI or Transfer Students .
• Submit one personal essay (no more than 1 page), a resume, and a copy of your DegreeWorks worksheet (if you are a current CSI student) and two letters of recommendation (one of which needs to be from a professor from your current or former college. Instructions on how to submit these will be included in a confirmation email generated when you complete the Supplemental Application. These must be typed.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, macaulay honors college: how good is it.

Hey everyone! I'm considering applying to Macaulay Honors College and I was wondering if any of you know about its ranking? I'd appreciate any insights into the college, its reputation, and if you think it would be a good fit for someone interested in pursuing a STEM major.

Macaulay Honors College, which is part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system, is known for offering outstanding academic opportunities and resources to high-achieving students. While it may not have the same national prominence as some Ivy League institutions, the college has consistently received positive reviews for its rigorous curriculum, faculty, and supportive network of students and alumni.

In terms of STEM programs, Macaulay students are able to major in various subjects through the individual CUNY campuses. For instance, The City College of New York and Hunter College are particularly well regarded for their science and engineering programs.

Also, you will have access to a wealth of resources including research opportunities, internships, professional networks, and world-class facilities.

One of the significant advantages of Macaulay Honors College is its robust financial aid package, which provides full-tuition scholarships and access to the Opportunities Fund for pursuing internships, study abroad programs, and research. Additionally, Macaulay students benefit from smaller class sizes, dedicated advisors, and priority course registration as part of the honors experience.

It's essential to consider fit when choosing the right college for you. If you are seeking a smaller, close-knit community that offers personalized attention and access to city-wide resources and opportunities, Macaulay Honors College might be a great match for you. Keep in mind that the CUNY campuses also offer robust STEM programs and opportunities, so you can look into those to further assess if Macaulay would be the right choice for your academic interests.

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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Macaulay Hosts City Nature Challenge 2024 April 26 – 29

April 2, 2024

• Macaulay Honors College invites everyone to participate in the 2024 City Nature Challenge April 26 – 29.
• Free events for nature lovers throughout the New York City.
• Every New Yorker is invited to contribute to citizen science and urban biodiversity.

Macaulay Honors College is pleased to be the official organizer of the 2024 City Nature Challenge for the City of New York for the eighth consecutive year. The college has connected with dozens of public parks, preservation societies, gardens, and other organizations throughout the five boroughs to offer fun, free events to nature lovers of all ages. Events take place over the weekend of April 26 – 29, 2024

Along with volunteer student guides, faculty, and local scientists, Challenge participants will use smartphones to record as many examples of urban wildlife as they can. The information will later be used by scientists and researchers to help improve biodiversity and sustainablility in New York City—and beyond.

“City Nature Challenge is not a contest,” explains Macaulay Director of Science Forward, Dr.  Kelly O’Donnell . “But we all win when we explore nature within our community, have fun, and contribute data that can be used to make New York City greener and healthier for everyone.”

A kickoff event, free and open to all,  will take place at Macaulay Honors College on April 26 at 10AM. Attendees will hear from Macaulay Dean Dara Byrne , PhD and Dr. O’Donnell before heading to nearby Central Park for a brief, guided nature walk.

More information and a constantly-updated list of City Nature Challenge events is available here .

The City Nature Challenge is organized on a global scale by the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and the California Academy of Sciences.  The 2024 New York City Nature Challenge is generously supported by the New York City Council and the office of Council Member Gale Brewer.

Macaulay Director of Science Forward Dr. Kelly O’Donnell [email protected]

Macaulay Honors College

What are the admissions requirements how will macaulay honors review applications.

August 12, 2021

Macaulay reviews applications using a combination of academic and personal factors, including: transcripts, extracurricular activities, community service, personal initiative and leadership qualities, recommendation letters, essays, and in some cases Interviews. You can find more information on our website: https://macaulay.cuny.edu/admissions/applying-to-macaulay/