successful umich essays

26 University of Michigan Supplemental Essay Examples (2024)

To get into the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor in 2024, you have to write strong supplemental essays.

In this article, I've gathered 26 of the best supplemental and Common App essay examples for Michigan.

University of Michigan Admissions FAQ

Here are some answers to common questions regarding applying to UMich.

As one of the highest ranked public universities in the U.S., Michigan has a reputation that makes for a competitive admissions process.

University of Michigan's Acceptance Rate

This past year, a record 79,743 students applied to Michigan and only 16,071 were offered admission.

That gives Michigan an overall admit rate of just 20.15% for the Class of 2026.

University of Michigan Acceptance Scattergram

Here's a scattergram that shows admitted and rejected applicants for Michigan in recent years.

In order to stand out from other applicants, you'll need to write your best supplemental essays. Here you can find 26 examples of Michigan essays that worked.

Since many of Michigan's prompts have stayed the same year after year, these examples answer this year's prompts.

What is Michigan's application deadline for this year?

The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor offers two admissions deadlines for Fall 2023: early action and regular decision.

For this year, Michigan's deadlines are:

• Early Action (EA): November 1st, 2022
• Regular Decision (RD): February 1st, 2023

Some students like transfer students may apply in Winter 2023 or Summer 2023, for which there are two deadlines:

• Winter 2023 RD: October 1st, 2022
• Summer 2023 RD: February 1st, 2023

What are the University of Michigan supplemental prompts for 2022-23?

This year, the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor requires applicants to write two supplemental essays. The first essay is limited to 300 words while the second essay is longer, with a maximum of 550 words.

The Michigan supplemental prompts are:

1. Community Essay (Required for all applicants.)

Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it. (100-300 words)

2. Why Michigan Essay (Required for all applicants.)

Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (100-550 words)

26 University of Michigan, Ann Arbor EssaysThatWorked

Check out these 26 Michigan essays that worked.

Below you can read example supplemental essays for Michigan, as well as Common App essays from admitted students.

Get inspired and start writing your own successful Michigan essays.

Prompt: Communities and Groups

• 1. Christian Faith
• 2. Horseback Riding
• 3. Youth Court
• 4. Two Sides
• 5. Marching Band Family
• 6. Chinese Christian Church
• 7. Whitman Navigators
• 8. Diverse Community
• 9. The Nabe

Prompt: Area of Study / Why Michigan?

• 10. Education Program
• 11. Business Opportunities
• 12. Engineering at Michigan
• 13. Economics and Political Science
• 14. Michigan Faculty
• 15. Interdisciplinary Learning
• 16. Michigan Opportunities
• 17. School of Kinesiology

Prompt: Extracurricular Activity

• 18. Summer in the City
• 19. Riding Horses
• 20. Restorative Justice
• 23. Speech and Debate
• 25. Soccer Lessons
• 26. Playing Horn

1. Michigan Community Essay: "Christian Faith"

Prompt: Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it. (100-300 words)

I am a member of the Grosse Pointe chapter of YoungLife, a non-denominational Christian youth group. However, I wouldn't necessarily consider myself a "Christian."

My relationship with God is exactly that—mine. I sometimes question certain Christian teachings and beliefs, and I'm not 100 percent sure that I am officially any one religion.

This is not only OK, but encouraged at YoungLife; the motto of the organization is "Come as you are." The differences between myself and the person sitting next to me at Sunday Club don't matter there.

Our diverging ideas and opinions, some of which may be about religion itself, become white noise as we sing along with the leaders to start each Club at the YoungLife House. My understanding of Christianity can be polar opposite of that person—my friend—next to me, but we are connected in the Club's universal idea of being yourself and accepting others for doing the same.

I am still figuring out my individual ideologies, and I expect it to take time before I fully understand my feelings. My views may will fall within those of a Christian church, they partially could, or they might not at all. I haven't solved my religious puzzle yet, but I don't feel like an outsider because of it. The people at YoungLife respect my internal journey. They understand that I don't fully understand my religion yet.

2. Michigan Community Essay: "Horseback Riding"

As the first horse walked in for the HJAM hunter derby in May, I sat on the grassy hill overlooking the show grounds with my friends and the “big girls” for the first time. In just a few years, I would be one of the “big girls” that the younger kids would look up to. Brought together by long horse show days highlighted by donkey races in Kentucky, boat days in Traverse City, and “Ride and Drives” in Ohio, the group of riders that compete at the horse shows have become my friends for life.

Starting in the early 2010’s, when all of us rode ponies, everyone began to come out of their shell as we bonded over our love for this sport. Jumping the “kid jumps” until it was too dark, our group became inseparable, and Sundays, the last day of a horse show, became increasingly dreaded as it meant we had to say goodbye until the next show.

Trading in ponies for horses and bows for hair nets, we became engaged in much more mature activities- like water fights and golf cart races. Beginning to conquer bigger divisions and national finals, riding became more serious, however, being surrounded by this community kept it light hearted as we cheered each other on ringside.

Entering into my final junior year as a rider, I have trouble believing that I have become one of the “big girls” as it seems just yesterday I gazed up at my mentors on the hill almost a decade ago. Knowing that the friendships I have made will last a lifetime, I am forever grateful to the early mornings and long nights that brought us together and cannot wait to watch where each of us end up: both inside and outside of the ring.

3. Michigan Community Essay: "Youth Court"

A defining factor of my interests and character is membership to Ontario County Youth Court. Not only have I enjoyed the career exploration, new opportunities, and service aspects of the program, but also the people within it. Youth court provides as alternative path legal path for youth offenders. But also serves the community of members who conduct the trials. This has allowed me to gain an understanding of other people’s situations and circumstances.

After four years of dedicated membership, I have assumed leadership positions within the program. This includes acting as lead prosecutor, along with the elected chair of the Ontario County Youth Court Steering Committee. As chair, I have planned successful member outreach events such as a Halloween party and a career exploration event. By acting as a mentor and providing guidance towards my fellow members, I have encouraged others to develop a passion for youth court and law. Without this community, I would have never discovered my true passion for law, or broadened my understanding of others.

4. Michigan Community Essay: "Two Sides"

I grew up with big glass doors in my living room, bold doors that opened to a garden on one side and a living room on the other. When you walked outside, you entered an untamed mosaic of bamboo, peonies, lavender, hummingbirds, bees and the occasional free-spirited cat. Grey stepping stones guided you through the mystical garden in a seemingly random fashion. The other side of the doors open up to a different type of community, a community where shoes and dirt weren’t allowed, corners were sharp, and the main odor was all-purpose cleaning spray.

These two worlds were separated by a mere panel of transparent doors. I believe that I am the product of both of them. These two spaces, along with my mother, formed the person that I am today. From the garden community, I learned to be pure and kind, while the indoor community warned me to also stay guarded. I’m reserved, but with a touch of confidence; forgiving but not ignorant; and perseverent yet flexible.

Things used to seem binary; I was either the garden or the room. However, I now believe that I am the living, breathing evidence that maybe life isn’t so one-sided. Maybe some us will realize that one side calls to us, while others will become the glass doors and, instead of standing on either side, experience multiple worlds.

5. Michigan Community Essay: "Marching Band Family"

As I prepared for my freshman year of high school, I was terrified I would never find my place at Grosse Pointe South. But when I started my first marching band camp a month before school began, I found the friends that would form my tightest-knit community for the next four years.

No matter how busy my schedule has become, the six hours I spend each week at marching band have remained a constant throughout high school. These friends have been the most unfailingly kind people I have met at South, and have provided me a place where I feel confident presenting myself authentically to the people around me.

As a section leader this year, I have gained experience as a supporter and motivator. My goal has been to help the underclassmen find the same community in marching band that I did.

This role has taught me a lot about collaboration. My fellow section leaders and I have shared responsibility for the quality of every performance we give and held meetings to discuss ways to improve rehearsal productivity. It has been incredible to see our hard work result in such enjoyable performances for our school and surrounding community.

The Grosse Pointe South Marching Band has become my second family throughout the last four years. I am incredibly grateful for the friends I will miss so much next year, and for the opportunity to provide underclassmen with the same kind and accepting environment that I was welcomed into four years ago.

6. Michigan Community Essay: "Chinese Christian Church"

As you walk onto my church grounds, you would be a little befuddled. What used to be a small one-story home now houses the Chinese Christian Church of Columbia--the former garage/carport is now the sanctuary, the swimming pool has been replaced with the education building, and the old house is now the kitchen and fellowship building. But the most glaring aspect is the separate services, divided by language not time. Our church walks between traditional Chinese culture and contemporary American beliefs. Many of the ABCs (American-born Chinese) and the few Americans join together for the English service, centered around more contemporary worship and disciple-building. The older immigrant population and the Chinese students from the surrounding universities gather for the Chinese service, featuring more conservative worship with hymns and focused on outreach.

Though we are divided by language and cultural barriers, we are joined together with a shared faith. While I call the English congregation home, I occasionally serve on the worship team for the Chinese service and as an interpreter for joint adult and youth events (when the Chinese and English service join together). While I serve in both congregations, my main focus is the children’s ministry where I am a Sunday school teacher and an activities coordinator. Every week, I love walking into the classroom, seeing the happy faces of curious children ready to learn new Bible stories despite their occasional rowdy and disobedient behavior. While the students learn, I share the same search for answers in my faith. With my church being a melting pot of cultures and language, we work to push aside those barriers to be joined together under one faith. Despite the challenges, the tight-knit community that has sprung up from our tiny house church has won my heart.

7. Michigan Community Essay: "Whitman Navigators"

I quit keeping track of how many times I've said "Hi, welcome to Whitman!" after my first Back-to-School-Night. As a member of the Whitman Navigator team for three years, I've greeted a few hundred parents, oriented three classes of freshmen, and built lasting friendships with fellow Navigators and staff. Navigators are Whitman students who lead Freshman Orientation and Back-to-School-Night, as well as give tours to transfer students.

In this capacity, I've worked with our two principals, Dr. Goodwin (now retired) and Dr. Dodd, on building a more welcoming Whitman. The community I love best is that of my high school, Walt Whitman. My place is similar to that of a Walmart Greeter, in that I am the first person freshmen see when they enter the front door. Using my school spirit and three years' experience, I enthusiastically guide these freshmen through their first encounter with this large, and often intimidating, new community.

Last year, I received my first question that I couldn't answer. As a chorus student, my knowledge of the Fine Arts at Whitman is limited; when a freshman asked me about ceramics courses, I paused and pondered. Rather than providing her with false information, I said, "I actually couldn't tell you.

At the end of orientation, I'll refer you to Gianni, a Navigator who took ceramics last year." The closeness of the Navigator community meant that I knew the right person to answer her question. Here I was, answering the freshman's question in a position of authority, when only four years ago I was in her shoes. Navigators granted me the opportunity to help others acclimate to the school, and I developed leadership traits through which I could guide people successfully.

8. Michigan Community Essay: "Diverse Community"

In my hometown, you can hear the cows moo and the tractors hum. The smell of manure might only be overtaken by the fumes of a Ford F-150. Farms line the sides of the roads I take to school. I have lived in rural Carroll County, Maryland my whole life. I have grown to love it. The people are friendly, neighborhoods are safe, and schools are good. However, there is one main issue. Everyone here is white.

While visiting the University of Michigan, I noticed the treelined campus. I pictured myself meeting peers in the dorms and classrooms. I was overwhelmed when I stepped into the Big House. But the thing that stood out the most was the diversity of Ann Arbor. Being in a place where a variety of ethnicities is so prevalent was a wake-up call to what I have been missing my whole life.

The diverse community of the University of Michigan is a place where I could see myself thrive. Being around and learning from people with unique backgrounds has been a rare commodity in my life. Around the age of thirteen, I realized what I had been missing within Carroll County, so I joined a soccer team in a more diverse neighboring county. This team gave me a taste of what life is like away from my rural hometown.

In college I want to belong to a society of people all different from each other. I would be able to learn so many valuable life lessons. University of Michigan is a place where I could share my story, as well as take in the stories of many different people. In college, I want to join a community filled with variety and open mindedness, rather than remaining in my ethnically homogenous past.

9. Michigan Community Essay: "The Nabe"

The bus took ten minutes to get home this time, not the usual thirty. This wasn’t my home, but it would essentially become just that.

The Morristown Neighborhood House is a center that provides a free and safe after-school environment for local children. While I had previously participated in various service programs, something was different about NH. Whether it was teaching long division or playing a game of chess, the bonds I established with the kids were real, human connections.

It was a privilege to be appointed service coordinator at the end of my junior year. But, I wanted to further immerse myself into “the Nabe.” While there were various summer options, I felt that there couldn’t be a better choice than signing up to be a camp counselor at the Nabe.

The kids became family; through sarcophagus art projects, writing practice, Xbox tournaments, implicit bias discussions, and trips to the park, they became the little siblings I never had. When I brought in ice cream for all of them on my birthday, I was showered with hugs. No foreign exchange trip could outdo that.

I am a member of many communities based on my geography, ethnicity, interests, and talents, but the most meaningful community is the one that I never thought I would be a part of. Bryan, Genesis, Justin, John, Christian, Jason, Jazarah, Jaeden, Steven, Angelique, Isabella... and Yajur.

On that first bus ride to the Nabe, I never saw it coming.

10. Why Michigan: "Education Program"

Prompt: Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (100-550 words)

Growing up, I always pictured myself as a great teacher as an adult. With the second best secondary education program in the country and an emphasis on the liberal arts and undergraduate education, I am confident that U-M will shape me into the great educator I’ve dreamed of becoming since I was a kid.

Hallmarks of a liberal arts education include teamwork, problem-solving, clear writing, and effective communication. These are also skills that any exceptional teacher needs. U-M offers an unparalleled curriculum that prepares students to successfully run classrooms and obtain Provisional Teacher Certifications upon graduation, exposing students to diverse classes and people in Ann Arbor, and providing them with an invaluable liberal arts education along the way.

Being an effective teacher means connecting with and stimulating all students at its core. The liberal arts foundation I will receive in the College of Literature, Sciences, and the Arts (LSA), married with the experiential education and training the School of Education (SoE) will provide, will mold me into that great teacher—a mentor and role model for any student, regardless of creed—I’ve always aspired to become.

The Teacher Education Preferred Admission (TEPA) for incoming freshmen piqued my interest because the program is the crossroad between the liberal arts and teacher education; two components I was looking for in a college. TEPA will allow me to build a strong liberal arts base in LSA my first two years on campus before entering SoE, while also gaining beneficial experiences in the education field early on.

The education-oriented programs WE READ and Students Empowering Education specifically appealed to me because they will bridge my liberal arts education with my anticipated career as a high school English teacher. Similarly, my Spanish classes will have a practical application in the Ann Arbor Language Partnership, a program that immediately interested me as a potential Spanish minor.

During my first two years as a pre-admit, I'll be supported by my TEPA peers and staff, specifically from my SoE personal adviser. TEPA will take the large campus and make it feel smaller, allowing me to form organic connections with like-minded people and groups that can cultivate my interest in education before entering SoE junior year.

I need a meaningful education to be a meaningful educator. Truthfully, I could go to almost any college to become a teacher, but only schools that synthesize in- and out-of-classroom learning like SoE produce great ones. U-M ranking sixth in the country for undergraduate teaching bolstered my interest in the university and confirmed what I already knew: I will receive an education in LSA and SoE that will change who I am as a person and not just a student, and prepare me to provide the same for others as a teacher.

The great educator I’ve always envisioned myself becoming is one that can inspire without bounds. From my time as a student, I’ve come to realize that a truly influential teacher can work with students who have little in common with themselves and still be impactful. LSA's purposeful and broad curriculum, paired with SoE's hands-on courses and fieldwork, and the additional opportunities available through TEPA, will shape me into that life-changing teacher, for any student who walks through my classroom door.

11. Why Michigan: "Business Opportunities"

Growing up in a community that bleeds maize and blue, the community represented by the University of Michigan has always been one that I could see myself representing as both a student and alumni. From football games at the big house to classes at Ross, each and every opportunity available at U of M represents a piece of my life that I hope to continue to incorporate into my life for the rest of my life.

The opportunity to take courses that allow for enriched experiences in developing a real business is one that I intend to be involved in as soon as possible. I will use this type of class as a way to test my skills and learn where I need to become stronger as a leader and student. Watching others equally driven as me, their tactics that are successful and not successful will imprint on how I attack problems in the future and shape my overall leadership style.

By being involved in the Multidisciplinary Action Projects down the road as a graduate student, I hope to learn firsthand what it takes to run and be involved with real businesses. Firsthand exposure is the best way to learn how to solve problems- especially surrounded by peers who are equally as driven and dedicated as I am.

Filled with students striving for nothing but the best they are capable of is a community that I am certain I will enrich and fit into. By sharing ideas and collaborating together instead of against each other, each and every one of us will contribute to the business world as leaders and innovators.

The University of Michigan is a place I can see myself learning and growing as a leader for the next four years as I intend to use all of the tools at my disposal to become a top business person. The opportunities within the school I will be involved in and the peers that I will work beside only enrich the values of what being a Wolverine mean to me.

12. Why Michigan: "Engineering at Michigan"

The University of Michigan’s College of Engineering has a proactive approach to career path discovery and job search. While I do hope to aspire to a corporate attorney, an engineering degree from the University of Michigan would provide me the advantage of readiness.

U.S News and World Report published an article about challenges law school applicants with STEM degrees face. Number one was the lack of research skills. Michigan Undergraduate Engineering has research opportunities for all undergraduate students. I hope to even take advantage of The College of Engineering (CoE) International Internship Program. The chance to see the world and contribute to the world-class studies conducted by Michigan Engineering students is a unique quality. The article also reported that STEM applicants often lack job experience. Michigan Engineering hosts internship fairs, which even freshman can participate in. By utilizing the opportunity to work in a professional setting, I will be more adapt to presenting myself in a mature and respectable manor in a corporate setting.

Many people are puzzled by my aspirations to become a corporate lawyer with an engineering degree. While I enjoy learning about many areas of study, math and science have always peaked my interest. Like my attraction to law, I am drawn to the definitiveness of engineering specifically. While there is a right and wrong in methods and procedures, there is a chance to be creative; for the end goal is functionality. Law requires critical thinking, problem solving, and the questioning of presented facts and figures. These skills are also encompassed in Michigan Engineering. With a technical understanding of industry and engineering, I will be able to more accurately represent a corporation. Like the professors at Michigan Engineering, I hope to be an expert in my field. At Michigan Engineering, I will be educated by the best of the best. Professors that have been exposed to their fields in every aspect; allowing them to provide the best guidance to students. Instead of just presenting facts and figures in a courtroom, I will be able to understand and explain them.

13. Why Michigan: "Economics and Political Science"

In my junior year microeconomics class, my teacher extensively explored the ways in which people from different socioeconomic classes were affected by our economic system. I was frustrated by the ways our country forces those living in poverty to spend the little money they have on taxable goods. I began to empathize with them. How can people pull themselves out of poverty if their government seems to be working against them? More than anything, I was frustrated that I felt powerless to help them in any way.

Those lessons inspired and motivated me. I had always looked at economics as nothing more than an analysis of business models and resource allocation. I began to see it as a way to fix fundamental problems in our society, from examining the effects of healthcare expansion on crime and poverty rates to studying how shifts in our political climate affect how our country’s financial process will change. I now see economics as a way to help those in need in my country and throughout the world.

I volunteered after school for Representative Dingell and had the opportunity to attend numerous events hosted by the Ford School. Again and again, I was impressed by the extent of the Ford School’s student involvement in critical issues. Through my work with the Congresswoman, I was able to gain a greater understanding of how different groups of people were affected by shifts in political and economic priorities. My goal is to become a civil rights attorney or study economics as a way to promote sustainable growth in developing nations.

I want to begin my studies at the University of Michigan in LSA to gain a foundation in economics and political science-related courses. After my first year, I hope to gain admission to the Ford School. The connections that LSA and Ford have to Poverty Solutions solidified by interest in the University of Michigan. If I attended these schools as an undergraduate student, I would be able to assist with research on the causes and ramifications of poverty. Professor Michael Barr’s research on policy initiatives and our financial system is fascinating from the perspective of a prospective economics major. At the University of Michigan, I would be able to join teams of renowned researchers working toward the betterment of our society and our world.

The range of schools working in connection with Poverty Solutions is evidence of the University’s devotion to civic engagement. I would be able to participate in groundbreaking research regarding issues I am interested in; I would have the ability to study poverty and ways to stunt or alleviate its effects in other countries. As someone hoping to pursue a career in public service, it is truly incredible to have the opportunity to join a research community specifically geared toward solving problems I am passionate about solving.

I want to join the University of Michigan’s legacy of innovators. I want to be part of the LSA community, studying economics and political science. I want to attend the Ford School and understand how policy in America and abroad has an effect on global poverty. I want to be involved with the Poverty Solutions Initiative, conducting groundbreaking research on the ways we can reform our financial system to better serve the lower and middle classes.

14. Why Michigan: "Michigan Faculty"

Riding the elevator to the seventh floor of Haven Hall, my heart was practically leaping out of my chest. I was meeting with Dr. Jenna Bednar of the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts Department of Political Science, and as I recalled her credentials- B.A. in Political Science from Michigan, M.A. and PhD in Political Science from Stanford- I felt increasingly out of place. As a junior in high school with limited political experience, I am grateful that she agreed to take time out of her day to meet with me and answer my numerous questions about LSA, Michigan, and political theory.

Upon entering her office, my eyes were drawn to bookshelves full of political literature, from the classics like De Tocqueville and Locke (which I read in a summer college program in 2017), to her own recently published work, The Robust Federation. Encouraged by her broad smile and having just completed an official campus tour, I launched into my questions. Dr. Bednar described the connections she and her students have made at Michigan, through LSA and in general.

This revealed to me that the faculty would take a personal interest in my academic career. We discussed the average class size in LSA and the Department of Political Science, her academic background, and how to survive Michigan winters. Dr. Bednar then brought my attention to the benefits that LSA Political Science gives its students.

For example, as head of the Michigan in Washington program, Dr. Bednar's passion for both political science and education was evident as she introduced me to one of Michigan's most influential academic programs. Although I hail from two miles outside the D.C. border, I aspire to participate in the Michigan in Washington program, to build on my internship of the past year with my delegate to the Maryland General Assembly.

Under his guidance, I conducted nationwide policy research, attended civic association meetings and development forums, and traveled to our state capitol to watch the legislative process unfold. Consequently, an internship at the federal level is my logical next step toward building the foundations of a political career.

Dr. Bednar, upon hearing about my internship with my delegate, suggested that I think about the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program. I believe that this research program offers a unique means of building my understanding of political science. I am eager to apply to the UROP program in hopes of furthering my research skills within the complex political landscape of today. Furthermore, the variety of courses that I can explore as a political science major is remarkable: from "Sports, Politics, and Society", to "Nations and Nationalism," the scope of topics will keep me engaged.

When I sat down with Dr. Bednar, I expected a five-minute chat; I received forty-five minutes of helpful advice, political theorizing, and well wishes. Leaving her office, I felt energized and ready to dive into LSA Political Science right there. Her demeanor helped to build my confidence to boldly seek connections in my search for knowledge. I saw the Michigan difference firsthand, from various undergraduate opportunities for political science, to a universal love for the school from students and faculty alike.

15. Why Michigan: "Interdisciplinary Learning"

My favorite class in high school was also my hardest. It was World Culture/World Literature, an hour and a half each day of seeing history, art, and literature not as separate entities but as intricately connected, one incomplete without the other. I learned to see humanism in Greek sculpture, religious propaganda in the chiaroscuro of Baroque paintings, disillusionment in modern art. Although seemingly unrelated to my STEM-leaning interests, the analytical skills I learned there would prove invaluable in neuroscience research. Connecting electroencephalography results to mechanisms for chronic pain relief wasn’t all too different from drawing links between historical movements and paintings; both required an intimate knowledge of background information and a willingness to take risks, to see new relationships and forge unprecedented connections.

LSA embodies precisely this mentality, fostering interdisciplinary learning and problem-solving. With classes like “Health, Biology, and Society: What is Cancer?”, bridging humanistic and biological approaches to disease, and graduation requirements ranging from Natural Sciences to Race and Ethnicity, LSA prepares students for the real world, where problems necessitate not just single-minded expertise but also a diverse understanding of other factors involved. My internship experience only confirmed the practicality of this perspective; we used mindfulness meditation alongside spinal cord stimulation technologies to treat chronic pain.

This mindset is not confined to learning inside the classroom. The LSA Opportunity Hub is robust, connecting students to internships at Nike, Forbes, and the US Department of Education, among other places. To intern as a research assistant at Mayo Clinic, to use mathematical models to predict brain tumor growth like current Michigan junior Tatum Doyle would be an unequalled opportunity. Her work in incorporating mathematical concepts in medical research personifies the LSA culture, where problems are best solved holistically. LSA’s interdisciplinary approach does not detract from fostering specialization and excellence in specific fields, but adds; its Biochemistry program promotes innovation and independence in its students and is ranked top in the nation.

I remember boiling down cabbage with my dad to make acid/base indicators. In elementary school, my teacher wrote that I had been spending too much time reading animal books and too little time playing with other kids. I loved (and still love) all things living, often marvelling at the complexity of the animal kingdom, the human body, the organs, and the cells that were the foundation for everything else. The first time I read about the process of translation, of rendering mRNA into proteins, my eyes filled with tears; this is what I wanted to do, to apply the chemistry that had defined my childhood to my love of biology.

LSA shares that passion, dedicating a plethora of resources, both intellectual and material, to its Biochemistry department. With equipment like atomic absorption spectrophotometers, classes in Endocrinology, and distinguished professors, the University of Michigan has everything any biochemistry undergraduate student would need, and much more. To research under a PI like Dr. Kopelman, winner of the J. William Fulbright Research Award, would be a dream fulfilled. His work in employing 5-dimensional chemical imaging to visualize and treat tumors does what LSA does best; it uses an interdisciplinary approach to make academic discoveries both relevant and essential in the real world. It is a culture I would be honored to take part in, should I be accepted.

16. Why Michigan: "Michigan Opportunities"

Sweat drips down my face onto homework in front of me.

I just got home from a soccer game; I’m not stressed. This is until I realize I still have a plethora of edits to make on my lab report as well as emails to write for an upcoming NHS event. AND I have three tests the next day.

Although stressful, I enjoy every minute of juggling a variety of academics and extracurriculars. I appreciate all the opportunities my high school offers to me and I take advantage of as many as I can handle. Thanks to my involved years of high school, I have received a great education as well as many experiences I would never trade away.

Entering my senior year and researching universities I may want to attend, there is one question which continuously presents itself. What do I want to major in when I get to college? It is a scary question and I have never known the answer. Despite participating in many extracurriculars such as National Honor Society, Science Olympiad, Math Honor Society, and Future Business Leaders of America, I still have no idea what I want to do with my life.

As a student at LSA, I would be able to use the abundance of resources to explore possibilities for life after college. Since I am one of the many college applicants who has not decided upon a major, a large, liberal arts college like LSA is the perfect place for me to discover more about myself, pursue interests, and find my purpose. I have considered medicine, business, economics, and law. The two courses I have enjoyed the most are biomedical sciences and US History. I am truly all over the map!

With so much variety at LSA, I would be able to change majors or take a diverse group of classes so that I could find what I want to study. LSA is unique from its University of Michigan counterparts because it offers a broader range of departments, majors, and courses. The flexibility at LSA would help me discover what I want my life to be like while supporting me through my journey.

Additionally, LSA provides students with multiple opportunities not found anywhere else at University of Michigan. One program that caught my eye was Michigan Learning Communities. This program appeals to me because having the resources of this large university, yet finding a niche in the community to challenge myself and others, can help me grow as a student and a person. Similarly, the Opportunity Hub at LSA jumped out at me as I researched the University and toured the school. I would take full advantage of the great connections the Opportunity Hub provides, as it could help me find an internship or job offer when the perfect time comes. MLCs, the Opportunity Hub, and the many other programs which LSA offers are the main reasons why LSA would be the best college fit for me.

I was initially drawn to the University of Michigan by the beautiful campus, great athletics programs, unmatched prestige, and massive alumni network. However, as I dove deeper, I discovered LSA, a school that can help me realize my purpose and passions while providing a focused learning environment to lead me to a bright future.

17. Why Michigan: "School of Kinesiology"

Throughout my college search, I had yet to come across the perfect undergraduate school for my interests. The safe pick was always the standard “College of Arts and Sciences” or its equivalent, with the most varied options for me to craft my experience. Something was different about Michigan. I didn’t need to craft my own academic experience at another university when the perfect one was already designed here: The School of Kinesiology’s Movement Science program.

In my house, we never eat scrambled eggs. We eat denatured albumin and yolk proteins served with a sprinkling of sodium chloride; cooking was chemistry, not just a chore. From a young age, my parents have cultivated a sense of curiosity in me. So when I injured my left wrist in the summer before freshman year, it was so much more than just an injury. I researched more into my growth plate dislocation and radial fracture. I got to see the details of the procedure, the recovery process, and the gradual reversion of my X-rays to a normal wrist image. This fascinating journey got me through an otherwise disappointing summer: no basketball and no french horn.

While the seeds were planted during my injury, they didn’t start blooming until I spent a week shadowing Dr. Kesavan Ramanujan in the Royal United Hospital, Bath, England. I realized that the field of orthopedics was a field where I could visually identify a problem, come up with a solution, implement the solution through operation, and help someone progress to full recovery. The gratification on the doctor’s faces when their recovered patients came back to visit them was infectious. While this trip was my first time staying abroad without my family, the biggest takeaway for me was that I had found a career I was truly interested in.

My volunteer work at the Robert Wood Johnson Hospital Physiotherapy Clinic has only strengthened this notion. While my work as a volunteer may be the more routine tasks: making schedules, doing paperwork, cleaning the beds and the gym, setting up hot packs, cold packs, and stimulation pads, I have learned so much about the subtle details of patient interaction through what I absorb from the physical therapists. Even if a PT is having a bad day, they have taught me how important it is to have a smile on your face for the next patient coming through the doors. They have also taught me how much of an intersection there is between teaching and medicine/therapy.

These experiences draw me to the School of Kinesiology, and specifically the Movement Science program. The opportunity to actively engage with skeletomuscular system studies as opposed to solely classroom learning appeals to me, as do the extensive research opportunities. The specialized IONM Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Program-- the only accredited IONM program in the world-- would give me the chance to engage in an exciting, interdisciplinary curriculum that cannot be found anywhere else.

From scrambled eggs to broken bones; from British adventures to lessons learned in the RWJ clinic. Discovering my passion for orthopedics and movement science has already been an exhilarating ride; yet, these have all been just the beginning steps of my journey. I cannot think of a better place to continue than the University of Michigan.

18. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "Summer in the City"

Prompt: If you could only do one of the activities you have listed in the Activities section of your Common Application, which one would you keep doing? Why? (150 words max)

I would chose to continue my involvement with Summer in the City, a nonprofit that empowers young citizens to revitalize Detroit through beautification and youth engagement, because I believe heavily in the power and potential of two things: Detroit and young people.

At SITC, I can see the difference I’m making through the murals I paint and the kids I play with. With each brush stroke, I am moving the city one step in a positive direction. And with each high five from my “buddy” at the camp, I feel like I am part of the grassroots, youth-driven movement the city needs.

19. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "Riding Horses"

For as long as I can remember, riding horses has played an integral part of my day to day life. It has taught me more than I could learn anywhere else and truly morphed my character forever. Riding has become a key part of my identity. Spending 30+ hours a week at the barn in addition to nearly 20 weekends of the year at horse shows, it has shown me the impact that long term effort has on success. This time commitment has also allowed me to make close friends that I hope to stay connected with for the rest of my lifetime. Riding has ultimately become more than a sport to me, but rather part of my life: a part of my life that I will treasure for as long as I am alive.

20. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "Restorative Justice"

With my aspirations to pursue a career in law, I would continue with youth court. Restorative justice is a concept that repairs damages and restores harmony. Instead of merely correcting illegal actions, an offender is integrated back into the community as a productive member of society. As a member, this is the greatest sense of satisfaction. Allowing someone the chance to change truly displays why I have remained devoted to the program for years.

At the University of Michigan, I would continue my restorative justice journey by involving myself in the Office of Student Conflict Resolution. I understand people have faults, which lead to disputes. With my vast experience with a variety of cases, I can assist others in making amends. Therefore, I am hopeful that I would be selected as a Student Resolution Panelist to be further educated on methods and approaches using restorative justice.

21. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "Nanny"

Working as a nanny has taught me much more than any club or organization could. Growing up with a single mom, I wasn’t always the primary focus: I had to learn how to take care of myself and carve my own path. Now, being a nanny enables me to be a role model and guide for kids whose parents might not have the time or ability to do so. And as the child of a working parent, I’m also aware of the constant stress parents are under.

Not only does being a nanny teach me how to handle the responsibilities of caring for a child, it also allows me to reminisce on my childhood. Whether I’m helping David with his Spanish homework, teaching Edward how to say hi, or finding Leprechaun footprints with William, I can feel the unique impact I’m making on their lives, an impact which is irreplaceable.

22. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "DECA"

Throughout middle school and my freshman year of high school, I was a mouse. I was terrified of making a spectacle of myself. The first time I walked into a DECA meeting -- one of only five girls in a group of 50, and the only freshman -- I nearly turned around and left.

Since that day, I have earned three medals and been named a state finalist. That mousey freshman would never believe I could receive statewide recognition for a competition that required me to communicate my ideas to strangers. Walking into my first meeting was a huge step outside my comfort zone. Since then, my experiences in competitions have given me a breakthrough in self-confidence, and for that I am especially grateful. Not only has DECA enhanced my high school career, but it has helped me learn to take pride in myself and my ideas.

23. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "Speech and Debate"

Since September of sophomore year, I have been attempting to persuade everyone and everything, from walls, to friends, to rearview mirrors, to agree with me. Through competitive topics in Speech & Debate, I'm learning how today’s issues affect American teens. From analyzing drug culture and its impact on youth, to assessing politics' role plays in dating, I'm granted the opportunity to broaden my perspective.

In the process, I'm meeting some of the most intelligent and fascinating students at tournaments. The Speech community is a creative outlet where I'm comfortable having my ideas challenged and challenging others. I plan to join the Michigan Debate team, and help coach high school Speech teams in Ann Arbor (my coaches are college students), because I believe that every teenager should be encouraged to critically explore current events, while getting comfortable speaking to inanimate objects, judges, and competitors in the process.

24. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "EMT"

I love being an EMT. I love the urgency of working in an ambulance, the way my heart quickens and my mind focuses when providing emergency patient care. But most of all, I love helping individuals in my community in a way most other people can’t. As EMT's, we’re endowed with the opportunity to intervene at the most critical points in a person's life, to provide calm and stability in life-or-death situations.

These are moments cemented in their memories, ones that define their conception of hardship and struggle. Every call I run presents a chance to make a permanent difference, from a classmate’s suicide attempt to a stranger’s car accident. By being there and providing compassion within chaos, I cherish the opportunity to positively influence each of my patient's lives. I wouldn’t give it up for anything.

25. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "Soccer Lessons"

The activity which I am most passionate about and plan to continue is soccer. Soccer has taught me multiple skills applicable to all aspects of life. These include leadership, teamwork, and work ethic. As captain of the soccer team, I have taken away various lessons I can apply in life. For instance, I have improved not only giving constructive criticism, but also receiving it- something which I am still working toward. Similarly, I have learned to be a better teammate, as soccer is reliant on playing together. Most significantly, soccer has brought me a desire to work hard, as being great requires so much more than pure talent. The impact of soccer on my life has created a new challenge for my future. I would like to continue playing because I want to take what I have learned and expand on it, and ultimately teach these lessons to others.

26. Michigan Extracurricular Activity: "Playing Horn"

It started from scratch, in 4th grade band Just me, my horn, and a small music stand Not knowing where, one day, this horn would take me Not knowing it would all be so grand.

I practiced for years, my range did expand I kept working and listening to teacher’s commands I’d keep on improving, as long as I practiced Whenever I got some time on my hands.

Failures have been tough to fully withstand. Each judge’s musical taste is hard to understand. But under the bright lights of Juilliard and Lincoln Center My journey could not have been better planned.

Looking back to where I began I couldn’t have imagined where I would land Only one activity? I’d keep playing my horn You have to play it to truly understand.

What Can You Learn From These Michigan Essays?

If you want to get into the University of Michigan in 2022, you'll need to write great supplemental essays.

Here are 26 Michigan essays that worked for the 2022 supplemental prompts so you can improve your essays.

If you enjoyed reading these Michigan essays, check out essays for other top public universities like UCLA and UC Berkeley

Are you applying to Michigan? What did you think of these U of M essays?

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I'm Ryan Chiang and I created EssaysThatWorked.com - a website dedicated to helping students and their families apply to college with confidence & ease. We publish the best college admissions essays from successful applicants every year to inspire and teach future students.

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University of Michigan Supplemental Essays Guide: 2021-2022

Not sure how to approach the University of Michigan essays? With tips from an Ivy League graduate, CollegeAdvisor.com’s guide to the University of Michigan essay prompts will show you exactly how to write engaging UMich supplemental essays. Strong responses to the University of Michigan supplemental essays will maximize your chances of admission. Read on for exclusive tips on the University of Michigan essay prompts!

Want help crafting your UMich supplemental essays? Create your free  account  or  schedule a free advising assessment  by calling (844) 343-6272.

UMich Essay Guide Quick Facts:

• The UMich acceptance rate is 26%— U.S. News  ranks UMich as a  competitive  school.
• We recommend answering all UMich supplemental essays comprehensively and thoughtfully.

Does the University of Michigan have supplemental essays?

Yes, there are supplemental University of Michigan essays. In addition to the  Common App  Personal Statement, all applicants will complete two specific UMich supplemental essays. One of these University of Michigan essays is much longer than the other, with a maximum of 500 words. This is only a bit shorter than the Common App Personal Statement, so you should give yourself plenty of time to complete it.

Need tips on writing your Common App essay? Check out our  blog article .

How many essays are required for the University of Michigan?

There are just two additional University of Michigan essay prompts. One of the UMich supplemental essays is 500 words long, and the other is just 300 words. The longer of the two University of Michigan supplemental essays is the “Why UMich essay.” Though these UMich essays are different lengths, you should spend an equal amount of time on each. Don’t afford less importance to the shorter of the two University of Michigan essay prompts! After all, shorter essays—including the University of Michigan supplemental essays–are not always easier to write.

Usually, admissions officers can tell if you rushed one of the UMich essays and spent all of your time perfecting the other. In order to make the best impression, make sure your University of Michigan supplemental essays are equally strong.

Are the University of Michigan supplemental essays important?

Yes, both of the University of Michigan essays are important in admissions. Both of the University of Michigan essay prompts are also  required  of applicants. This means you must respond to them in order to complete your application.

This guide will walk you through both of the University of Michigan essay prompts. This includes the first prompt, which is about community, and the second prompt, which is the “Why UMich essay.”

Overall, the UMich supplemental essays are a great way to offer details about yourself that complement the rest of your application. At the conclusion of your essays, admissions officers should walk away from your application knowing what kind of student  and  person you are. The UMich essays are the perfect place to do that. Using these tips, you will be able to tailor your responses to the UMich essays to show how you will enrich the UMich community.

What are the University of Michigan supplemental essays?

The University of Michigan supplemental essays are available on the  Common App  site, but you can also visit the main UMich  website  for a full list of application requirements. Let’s check out the UMich supplemental essays—starting with the shorter of the two UMich essays.

University of Michigan Supplemental Essays – Prompt 1

Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it. (300 words maximum)

How do I answer a University of Michigan supplemental essay?

First, when responding to the University of Michigan supplemental essays, remember to be specific. As a rule, your responses to the UMich essays should help admissions officers picture how you will contribute to UMich. What role will you play on campus? Let’s explore how you can do this in the first of the University of Michigan essay prompts.

As this first prompt for the UMich essays indicates, there are many ways to define “community.” You should begin your essay by defining what community means to you. For example, are you writing about a club or organization that matters to you? A physical space where you feel at home? A group of people who share your values?

Discuss your connections

Once you have defined your community, you should describe what makes you feel connected to this community— why  it is so meaningful to you. In evaluating University of Michigan essays, admissions officers look for how you will contribute to the UMich community. By detailing how you influence your community, you help your reader understand the role you will likely play at UMich. Strong UMich essays will give the reader a clear sense of how you will enrich the UMich campus.

This essay asks you to describe a group, discuss your role within that group, and then ultimately reflect on why this group is important to you and what you provide for that group. The best University of Michigan essays will follow this template. Your response should show that you are collaborative and empathetic, you know how to engage with others, and you feel comfortable taking initiative within community spaces.

Remember, the University of Michigan essay prompts are an opportunity to show admissions officers something new about yourself. You can use this space to describe a community you only briefly address elsewhere in your application. Or, you can even discuss a community space you have not described anywhere else in your application.

UMich Essay Draft Key Questions:

• Do you clearly define the community you are writing about?
• Does your response focus on both yourself and your external impact on your community?
• Do you use your UMich essay to teach the reader something new about you?

Does the University of Michigan have a “Why UMich” essay?

Most universities have a “Why us” essay, and the University of Michigan essays are no exception. This is your chance to showcase any research you have done about the University of Michigan while you’ve been writing your UMich essays.

The University of Michigan includes a “Why UMich essay” in the essay prompts. For the “Why UMich essay,” you’ll want to avoid over-generalizing. Stay away from statements like “Ann Arbor and the UMich campus are beautiful in the fall” or “I just feel like I belong there.” Instead, offer concrete examples of  why  you belong there. Maybe there’s a specific professor you really want to learn from or a course you couldn’t find at any other university that perfectly encapsulates your academic interests.

Your University of Michigan essays are the space to show off your expert investigation skills. Use the “Why UMich Essay” to discuss courses, clubs, professors, and research opportunities only available at UMich. Colleges can tell when you swap out their name for another university and submit the same “Why here?” answer. Your application will be stronger if your answer to this Why UMich essay could  not  be swapped interchangeably with any other schools.

University of Michigan Supplemental Essays – Prompt 2

Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (500 words maximum)

This is the “Why UMich essay” with a little twist. Rather than generally asking what about the University of Michigan attracts you, this “Why UMich essay” specifically asks about your choice of an undergraduate program.

Notice that the prompt asks for “unique qualities” about your chosen program; in order to best answer this question, you will first want to read everything you can about your college or school. Visit the UMich website and read the listings of required courses for your chosen program. You might even consider reaching out to any alumni you know who studied in your chosen college or school.

Know your College or School

For example, if you are applying to the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre, and Dance, you’ll want to read their whole  website . In your essay, you will probably want to mention their EXCEL (Excellence in Entrepreneurship, Career Empowerment & Leadership) program and how you feel you would benefit from it. You will want to do a virtual visit, see if there are any recordings of shows you could watch, or consider reaching out to a professor and asking if they would be willing to speak with you on a 15-minute phone call.

If you’re applying to the School of Education, you should again, read the  website . You don’t want to just recite statistics from their webpage; admissions officers already know about the 1:8 faculty to student ratio. You want to make your response unique to your passion for education so that you can best demonstrate how you will benefit from UMich’s curriculum.

If you’re looking at the School for Environment and Sustainability, UMich’s undergraduate program is called the Program in the Environment (PitE). You already know the first step: read the  website . You should also connect your real-life experience to your interest in this program, and you’ll want to discuss your intended specialization and any ideas you may have for a capstone project.

• Do you prove that you’ve done research on the school?
• Do you explain what unique opportunities the University of Michigan would provide you that you could not get anywhere else?
• Does your draft offer specific details about what you hope to do while on the University of Michigan’s campus?

University of Michigan Supplemental Essays: Final Thoughts

Completing the University of Michigan supplemental essays can seem daunting, but don’t let that discourage you from applying. The UMich supplemental essays are a great opportunity to demonstrate who you are to the admissions team. The University of Michigan essays can also boost your application if you have a lower-than-average GPA or  SAT score .

Use this guide as a step-by-step aid when approaching the University of Michigan supplemental essays. Start writing earlier than you think you should, especially with the Why UMich essay question; don’t underestimate the UMich essays. Because there are only two UMich supplemental essays, you should pay extra attention when responding to the University of Michigan essay prompts. These UMich essays give you two great opportunities to show admissions officers why you belong at their school. Don’t squander those opportunities by rushing your writing or submitting under-researched UMich supplemental essays.

Remember that you can use the UMich essay prompts to engage more deeply with a topic only briefly mentioned elsewhere in your application. If you get stuck, take a break and come back to the University of Michigan essay prompts with fresh eyes. It can also be beneficial to have someone else look over your University of Michigan essays. Don’t be afraid to ask for revisions; it’s helpful to have another set of eyes checking your University of Michigan essays for grammatical errors, tone, and clarity. To read examples of essay topics written by advisors who were accepted to UMich, click  here . Good luck!

This 2021-2022 essay guide on UMich was written by  Laura Frustaci , Harvard ‘21. For more CollegeAdvisor.com resources on the University of Michigan, click  here . Want help crafting your University of Michigan supplemental essays? Create your free  account  or  schedule a free consultation  by calling (844) 343-6272.

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UMich Supplemental Essays 2024-25 – Prompts & Tips

August 7, 2024

In forming the Class of 2027, the University of Michigan received over 87,000 applications, an all-time high. For historical comparison, there were under 24,000 applicants at the turn of the millennium. Therefore, it is safe to say that more students desire to become Wolverines in 2023 than ever before in the school’s 200+ year history. This greatly impacts the importance of the UMich supplemental essays.

The acceptance rate at UMich has fallen all the way down to 18%. However, this figure is typically twice as high for applicants who reside in the state of Michigan. If you are an out-of-stater or international student, you’ll need to bring even more impressive credentials than your in-state peers.

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

Through its two essay prompts, the University of Michigan supplemental section still affords applicants an opportunity to showcase what makes them uniquely qualified for admission. Below are the University of Michigan supplemental prompts for the 2024-25 admissions cycle. The College Transitions team also offers tips about how to address each one:

2024-2025 University of Michigan Supplemental Essay Questions

1) Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it. (Required for all applicants, 300 words)

This can be done well whether you are talking about an ethnic, religious, or neighborhood community. It could even be a group of individuals who gather for a club, sport, or service project. Most applicants to the University of Michigan are involved in at least one “community,” whether that’s as the captain of a team, the editor-in-chief of your school paper, the president of a club… but don’t just rest on those laurels. Instead, bring your involvement to life. Use your writing ability to show what type of community member you are rather than merely telling .

UMich Supplemental Essays (Continued)

Further, you can share have learned from interacting with people of a different ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual identity, etc. Draw on past evidence of your commitment to being a positive force in your community and speculate how that is likely to manifest on the University of Michigan’s campus. A solid move is to research and cite UMich student-run organizations and/or local nonprofit groups—for example, if you dedicated many hours working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout high school, it will be most impactful if you express your commitment to joining UMich’s chapter of Best Buddies in the future. Drawing the link between your past efforts and future aims is critical here.

2) Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (Required for all applicants, 550 words)

In some ways, this is your quintessential “Why Us?” essay, but UMich is particularly interested in hearing about why the curriculum in your desired academic department is attractive to you—not so much about your love for the football team or the beautiful campus. Below are some quick tips for writing an essay that will help your admissions cause:

• Cite specific academic programs, professors, research opportunities , internship/externship programs, study abroad programs , student-run organizations , etc.
• State why your chosen program is the perfect fit for you and why you are the perfect fit for it.
• Show evidence of how your past/current academic endeavors/achievements will carry over onto UMich’s campus.
• What special academically related talents and passions will you bring to the University of Michigan? What contributions will you make?

You’ll want to dedicate time to researching more about your prospective college/department and what makes it truly world-class. The more specific you can get here, the better your UMich essays will be!

How important are the essays to the admissions committee?

Michigan deems two factors as “very important” in evaluating a candidate. These are the rigor of your secondary school record and GPA. The UMich essays—both the general Common App essay and the Michigan supplements—are rated as “important.” They sit alongside standardized test scores, recommendations, character/personal qualities, and first-generation college student status.

UMich Supplemental Essays – Want Personalized Essay Assistance?

If you are interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your University of Michigan supplemental essays, we encourage you to get a quote today.

Looking for additional writing resources? Consider checking out the following:

• Common App Essay Prompts
• 10 Instructive Common App Essay Examples
• College Application Essay Topics to Avoid
• How to Quickly Format Your Common App Essay
• Should I Complete Optional College Essays?
• How to Brainstorm a College Essay
• 25 Inspiring College Essay Topics
• “Why This College?” Essay Examples
• How to Write the Community Essay
• College Essay

Dave Bergman

Dave has over a decade of professional experience that includes work as a teacher, high school administrator, college professor, and independent educational consultant. He is a co-author of the books The Enlightened College Applicant (Rowman & Littlefield, 2016) and Colleges Worth Your Money (Rowman & Littlefield, 2020).

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Home — Application Essay — University — University of Michigan

University of Michigan Admission Essays

The University of Michigan (U-M) is renowned for its diverse and enriching academic programs. Here, the selection of an essay topic, either for admissions or academic courses, isn't just a formality; it's an opportunity to showcase your compatibility with U-M's academic ethos. The right essay topic can illuminate your creativity, critical thinking, and unique perspectives, making you stand out in a pool of applicants or earn distinction in your coursework.

U-M values essays that demonstrate creativity, originality, and critical thinking. Insight into the University's culture is crucial for selecting a topic. For instance, U-M encourages a spirit of innovation and inquiry, suggesting that your essay should reflect these values. Whether looking at UMich essay examples or University of Michigan supplemental essays examples, you'll notice a trend towards topics that challenge conventional thinking and showcase a student's unique perspective.

University of Michigan admission essays serve a crucial purpose in the university's application process. These essays provide applicants with an opportunity to showcase their unique qualities, perspectives, and suitability for the university's academic environment. They help admissions committees gain deeper insights into the applicants beyond their academic records and standardized test scores. University of Michigan admission Essays are not just a formality but a chance for applicants to shine, express themselves, and demonstrate why they are an excellent fit for the university. They help admissions committees make informed decisions and build a diverse and dynamic student body.

Types of Essays at the University of Michigan

U-M requires various types of essays, from admission essays that probe your suitability for the university culture, to course-specific essays that assess your understanding of a particular subject. Scholarships and other programs may also require targeted essays. Each type has specific requirements, with prompts designed to assess different aspects of your academic and personal capabilities. Reviewing UMich supplemental essays examples can provide a better understanding of these requirements.

When faced with these diverse essay requirements, it's crucial to seek guidance and inspiration. Exploring University of Michigan essay examples can be an invaluable resource. These real-life examples showcase successful approaches to crafting compelling narratives. By studying how past applicants tackled similar prompts, you can gain valuable insights into effective storytelling, structure, and tone. Whether you're navigating the intricacies of an admission essay or delving into a course-specific topic, the University of Michigan essay examples serve as beacons of inspiration to help you navigate the challenging terrain of essay composition. So, when in doubt, turn to these examples to illuminate your path towards a standout essay.

Creating Topics for University of Michigan Essays

Begin by brainstorming ideas. Techniques like mind mapping and free writing can unlock creative ideas. Engage in discussions with peers or mentors to expand your thinking. Align your personal interests and experiences with U-M's values. For instance, if the university emphasizes community involvement, consider an essay on a community project you spearheaded.

Evaluate your topics based on personal relevance, uniqueness, scope for in-depth discussion, and alignment with U-M values. Shortlisting and refining topics is a critical step. Consider what makes you unique and how your experiences can contribute to U-M's diverse community.

Successful Essay Topics for University of Michigan

Analyzing successful essay topics can be enlightening. For instance, essays that discuss a candidate's unique cultural background or an innovative solution to a community problem have been successful in the past. These essays often follow the guidelines set by University of Michigan essay examples.

Successful essay topics for the University of Michigan typically share a few key characteristics: they are personal, insightful, and clearly aligned with the values and expectations of the University. Here are some examples of essay topics that could resonate well with the admissions committee:

• Triumph Over Adversity: My Journey Through Personal Challenges
• Celebrating My Heritage: How My Cultural Background Shapes Me
• A Deep Dive into My Passion for [Specific Academic Subject]
• Leading the Way: My Experiences as a Team Captain/Club President
• Making a Difference: My Commitment to Community Service
• Tackling an Intellectual Puzzle: A Challenging Academic Experience
• The Art of Creativity: My Journey in [Art/Music/Writing]
• Reaching New Heights: A Tale of Personal Achievement
• Exploring New Horizons: Lessons Learned from Travel and Living Abroad
• Mapping My Future: My Career Aspirations and How U-M Fits In

Each of these titles is designed to encapsulate a unique, personal story that can resonate with the values and ethos of the University of Michigan. Remember, the key to a successful essay is not just the topic itself, but how you present it.

Tips for Crafting University of Michigan Essays

Your essay should tell a story with a personal voice, balancing creativity with a clear, coherent structure. When appropriate, include research and factual data to support your arguments. For instance, UMich sample essays often demonstrate a fine balance between personal anecdotes and factual evidence.

The University of Michigan typically provides several supplemental essay prompts for their undergraduate admissions process. These prompts are designed to give applicants the opportunity to share more about themselves, their perspectives, and their aspirations. While the exact prompts may vary from year to year, here are some common types of supplemental prompts you might encounter:

• Community Essay: This prompt often asks you to describe a community you belong to and how it has shaped your perspective and identity. The goal is to understand your place within your community and how you contribute to it.
• Why University of Michigan: This prompt seeks to understand why you are interested in attending the University of Michigan. It's an opportunity to discuss specific aspects of the university, such as academic programs, campus culture, or extracurricular activities that align with your goals and interests.
• Activity Essay: This prompt might ask you to elaborate on one of the activities listed in your application. The focus is on understanding the significance of this activity to you and how it has contributed to your personal development.
• Academic Interest Essay: Here, you would describe your academic interests and how you plan to pursue them at the University of Michigan. This prompt is about showcasing your intellectual curiosity and how it aligns with what U-M offers.
• Challenges Essay: Sometimes, a prompt might ask you to discuss a challenge you've faced and how you overcame it. This essay can provide insight into your resilience, problem-solving skills, and ability to adapt to difficult situations.
• Additional Information: This isn't always framed as a traditional prompt but offers space for you to provide any additional information that wasn’t covered in other parts of your application. It could be about unique life experiences, personal challenges, or other aspects of your background.

For the most current and specific essay prompts, it's best to refer to the University of Michigan's admissions website provided for the year you are applying. Each of these prompts is an opportunity to show different facets of your personality and how you would be a great fit for the University of Michigan community.

Your essay should be well-crafted, authentic, and reflective of your unique perspective and experiences. It's also important to connect your topic back to how it has prepared you for a future at the University of Michigan, aligning your personal narrative with the values and opportunities offered by the University.

Selecting the right essay topic for U-M is a journey that requires introspection, creativity, and alignment with the university's values. Embrace this process as an integral part of your personal and academic development. Remember, the perfect topic is one that not only meets the criteria but also resonates with your unique voice and experiences.

Why University of Michigan: Fulfilling Academic and Personal Aspirations

Attending the University of Michigan has been a lifelong dream of mine. Growing up in a small town, I yearned for the opportunity to immerse myself in a diverse and intellectually stimulating environment. Through meticulous research and countless conversations with alumni, I have come to…

Why UMICH: Shaping My College Journey

I often found myself contemplating the factors that would shape my college experience. It was during this introspective period that I stumbled upon the University of Michigan – a prestigious institution renowned not only for its academic excellence but also for its vibrant campus culture…

Why UMICH: Personal Development in The University of Michigan

As a college applicant, I meticulously scoured through various university websites, searching for a campus that would foster my growth as an individual, challenge my intellectual boundaries, and allow me to thrive in a diverse and inclusive community. It was during this pursuit that I…

Why The University of Michigan: A Perfect Platform for Growth

I am writing this application essay with great enthusiasm and a strong desire to be accepted into the University of Michigan. From its prestigious reputation to its vibrant campus community, I believe that this institution offers everything I am looking for in a college experience….

Why I Want to Be a CNA

I have always felt a deep sense of fulfillment when helping others. As I progressed through my academic journey, this inclination towards caregiving only intensified. After much self-reflection and research, I have come to the realization that becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is the…

Unleashing the Power of Technology at UMICH

Ever since my introduction to computer programming in high school, I have been captivated by the immense power of technology to shape and revolutionize the world. As a college student seeking to expand my horizons and challenge my intellect, the University of Michigan Ann Arbor…

University of Michigan: A Haven for Academic Excellence and Diversity

I am writing to express my profound interest in becoming a part of the vibrant academic community at the University of Michigan. As a college student seeking to further my education, I have conducted thorough research and believe that the University of Michigan stands out…

UMICH: The Path to Academic Excellence and Social Impact

As I stand at the precipice of higher education, the University of Michigan emerges as the beacon of academic excellence, innovation, and social impact that aligns with my aspirations and values. With its rich traditions, diverse community, and commitment to fostering global leaders, UMICH has…

University Of Michigan Ann Arbor: Shattering Preconceptions Through Travel

The majority of people in my community had similar backgrounds, beliefs, and cultural experiences. It wasn’t until my senior year of high school that I had the opportunity to travel to New York City with my school’s drama club. This trip completely shattered my preconceived…

Exploring the Human Mind at the University of Michigan

I have always been fascinated by the intricate workings of the human mind. From the way our thoughts influence our actions to the complex processes involved in decision-making, the field of psychology has always captivated my curiosity. This deep interest in psychology has shaped my…

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University of Michigan 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Early Action: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Feb 1

University of Michigan 2024-25 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: One essay of 300 words, one essay of 550 words

Supplemental Essay Types:   Community , Why

1 . Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it.

Required for all applicants. 300 words maximum..

This is a pretty standard Community Essay and admissions is giving you very specific instructions and launch points, both expected and unexpected, to draw from. You could be a part of an Italian Culture Club or a schnitzel appreciation association, either way, University of Michigan wants to hear about it. So try your best, despite the small space you are given, to answer all parts of this question. Describe the community and then detail how you contribute to that community. The point of this question is to show admissions you will add value and diversity to campus, and that you are a proactive and involved student who will help to build their community.

2.  Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests?

Required for freshman applicants. 550 words maximum..

Here is your Why Essay, and it’s a nice, hefty one at 550 words.  Your answer should be mostly focused on the academic offerings: what you want to study, what subjects interest you, and how you will use the resources at your disposal to pursue your professional goals. This is where you prove to University of Michigan that they are a good fit for you and vice versa, and getting this essay right requires a lot of research. You’re going to want to dig deep into the programs that you’re interested in: find classes, professors, even extracurricular activities related to your desired major that interest you. The more specific you can get, the better. Show admissions that you know what differentiates U-M from other colleges and, in turn, you’ll distinguish yourself from other applicants. Finally, don’t forget to connect your own past experiences and accomplishments to the resources you choose to highlight. Paint the picture of where you’ll be found on campus (whether that be the bio lab, math building, or theatre) and what you hope to accomplish.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, examples of successful umich supplemental essays.

Hey, I'm a junior and starting to work on my college essays. Does anyone have examples of successful UMich supplemental essays that they're willing to share? I want to get a sense of what made them stand out. Thanks in advance!

You're in luck: CollegeVine has a blog post which not only presents two successful Michigan essays written by real students, but also breaks down what makes them work, plus things that could have been done even better! You can check out these examples here: https://blog.collegevine.com/university-of-michigan-essay-examples/.

Also, remember that once you have your own draft, CollegeVine offers both free peer essay reviews and paid reviews by expert college admissions advisors. Sometimes, getting a more objective set of eyes on your writing is exactly what you need to take your essay from good to great.

Good luck with your essay!

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.

An aide to Ukraine's president says the aims of its attack on Russia's Kursk region is to get Moscow to start fair peace talks to end the war

Myhailo Podolyak says Ukraine has no interest in occupying territory taken in its 11-day cross-border incursion

The Ukrainian army claims it is continuing it's advance and has set up a military office inside Russia , which will "meet the immediate needs" of the population in the area

Elsewhere, Ukraine tells residents to evacuate the city of Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region

Russian forces are said to be approaching the outskirts after intense fighting in recent days

Live Reporting

Edited by Andrew Humphrey and Barbara Tasch

Kyiv says Kursk attack is attempt to pressure Russia into peace negotiations published at 19:41 British Summer Time 16 August 19:41 BST 16 August

Ukraine’s incursion into Kursk advanced a few kilometres further today, according to its army chief, though Moscow claims to have repelled attacks in numerous areas and has dug defensive trenches in order to slow Ukraine’s progress.

The aim of the attack on Kursk was to force Russia to the negotiating table for peace talks, an aide to President Zelensky said, but the conflict shows no signs of letting up with more fighting in eastern Ukraine and Russian forces pushing further towards Pokrovsk.

We also heard that the US would be announcing a new package of aid to bolster Ukraine’s war effort.

We’re bringing out coverage of the conflict to a close for the day, but you can read more on Ukraine's assault on Kursk and the destruction of the Glushkovo bridge in our latest story here , and for an in depth look at where the frontlines lay, take a look at our article showing maps tracking the war .

Bridge collapse fault of Ukrainian strike, local government says published at 19:39 British Summer Time 16 August 19:39 BST 16 August

Some more news on the bridge collapse over the Seym River of the Kursk region of Russia.

The region's acting governor, Alexsei Smirnov, says the bridge collapsed as a result of a Ukrainian strike in a statement on Telegram.

It's believed that the bridge's collapse will make it harder for Russia to supply their troops in the area.

Five Russian settlements to be evacuated - Belgorod governor published at 19:29 British Summer Time 16 August 19:29 BST 16 August

The governor of Russia's Belgorod region, which borders Ukraine, will evacuate residents from five villages as the area comes under heavy attack from Ukraine, according to the AFP news agency,

Vyacheslav Gladkov posted on Telegram that "access to five settlements" will be closed and residents will be removed in the coming days.

Report of bridge collapse in Kursk region published at 19:02 British Summer Time 16 August 19:02 BST 16 August

By Richard Irvine-Brown

A pro-Kremlin Telegram channel has reported that a bridge over the Seym River at Glushkovo, in the Kursk region, has collapsed, showing images of the bridge and quoting an adviser to the acting governor of the region.

We have looked for previous versions of these images online and believe they must have been first posted online this afternoon.

Details in the image, such as the fencing along the side appear to match video we've seen of the bridge when it was still intact.

This isn't the first time the bridge has been struck. Yesterday, a separate pro-Russian channel reported that the bridge had been hit "again" and remained up, while a video showed damage sustained to the road surface.

We can’t verify who struck the bridge and what other damage was caused.

EU gives Ukraine mine-clearing machines named Faith and Love published at 18:51 British Summer Time 16 August 18:51 BST 16 August

Thomas Copeland Live reporter

The European Union has given Ukraine two mine-clearing machines and other specialised de-mining tools.

The equipment is worth over €1.8m (£1.5m), according to a statement from the EU Delegation to Ukraine.

It's the latest in a package of de-mining aid announced by the EU last year and worth €25m (£21m) in total.

The two mine-clearing machines given today will be named "Vira", Ukrainian for "Faith", and "Lyubov", meaning "Love",

The first machine in this aid package was delivered earlier this year and named "Nadiya", meaning "Hope".

According to the statement, "Ukraine is among the countries most contaminated by mines and explosive remnants of war worldwide."

"These demining machines and equipment will contribute to faster demining of territories and reduce the risks from explosive remnants of war for the civilian population," said Brigadier General Oleksandr Yakovets.

A mine warning near the Russian border

Russia adds nine more allies of Alexei Navalny to terrorist blacklist published at 18:39 British Summer Time 16 August 18:39 BST 16 August

Exiled lawyer Olga Mikhailova, who represented Alexei Navalny, is one of nine new people added to a terrorist blacklist by Russia

Nine people - including journalists, lawyers and activists - linked to the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny have been added to Moscow's blacklist of "terrorists and extremists," according to AFP.

Today is exactly six months since Navalny, Russia's most significant opposition leader of the past decade, died in an Artic Circle jail . He was serving a 19-year-sentence on "extremism" charges.

Moscow said Navalny, 47, died of natural causes but his exiled widow - who was added to the blacklist last month with an arrest warrant issued for her - maintains her husband was tortured and killed.

The nine people - added to a list compiled by the Russian financial monitoring service called Rosfinmonitoring, which can freeze the assets of those listed - include:

• Navalny's former spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh
• Chair of Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation Maria Pevchikh
• Alexei Malyarevsky, a programmer who donated to Navalny's foundation who has been jailed for seven years
• Navalny's lawyers Olga Mikhailova and Alexander Fedulov (both in exile)
• Journalist Antonina Kravtsova and activist Olga Komleva (both in pre-trial detention)
• Host of Navalny's YouTube channel Dmitry Nizovtsev and producer Nina Volokhonskaya

Ukraine advances further into Russia's Kursk region - Ukrainian commander published at 18:28 British Summer Time 16 August 18:28 BST 16 August

Ukraine's commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi says the country's forces are advancing one to 3km (0.62 to 1.86 miles) in Russia's Kursk region, according to the Reuters news agency.

Speaking to President Volodymyr Zelensky via a video link, he reported fighting in the area of Malaya Loknya, which is about 11.5km (7.14 miles) from the Ukrainian border.

Syrskyi says the operation in Kursk is "strengthening" its positions, adding that he hopes the fighting near the Malaya Loknya would allow the Ukrainian military to capture "many prisoners".

As a reminder, a senior Ukrainian government advisor said earlier that Russian prisoners of war would be used at a later date in an exchange with Ukrainian prisoners of war kept by Russia.

President Zelensky shared the report from Syrskyi in a post on X , external , which stated that the frontline remains "our top priority, particularly the Pokrovsk and Toretsk directions".

Clearer weather reveals extent of Russian trenches in Kursk published at 18:11 British Summer Time 16 August 18:11 BST 16 August

By Paul Brown

Earlier this week we reported on the emergence of defensive trenches in the Kursk region dug by the Russians with the apparent intention of inhibiting Ukrainian advances.

Our analysis of satellite imagery at the time was only partial due to cloudy weather. However, the cloud has shifted and a fuller picture of Russia's defences has emerged.

BBC Verify has identified around 27km of trenches dug since 6 August running parallel to a main road located around 50km from the border with Ukraine.

This includes a continuous stretch of 22km which runs from an area south of Kursk's nuclear power plant to the small settlement of Chermonshoi, which lies around 20km southwest of the city of Kursk.

Elsewhere shorter sections of trench are visible between natural obstacles such as lakes and woodland.

US to announce extra security aid for Ukraine within days published at 17:56 British Summer Time 16 August 17:56 BST 16 August

The US will reportedly announce more security assistance for Ukraine in the coming days as Kyiv briefed its international partner on what it requires on the battlefield.

White House national security spokesman John Kirby told US media the announcement would be happening soon but he did not give details, according to Reuters news agency.

Meanwhile, Ukraine's top commander Oleksandr Syrskyi said he briefed the chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff Charles Brown on the situation with Russia.

Syrskyi posted on Telegram that he had "informed my American counterpart about changes in the operational and strategic situation and discussed current and most critical needs of the Ukrainian forces in weapons and military equipment".

In pictures: Displaced Kursk border residents receive aid in city centre published at 17:39 British Summer Time 16 August 17:39 BST 16 August

Hundreds of people evacuated from their homes in Kursk border towns and villages are receiving humanitarian aid in downtown Kursk.

Ukraine's surprise offensive along Russian border regions including Kursk, Belgorod and Bryansk has seen thousands of people displaced.

In the pictures below, people gather daily essentials like clothes, blankets and water from collection points in the city centre.

Five key things to know this evening published at 17:23 British Summer Time 16 August 17:23 BST 16 August

Let's bring you up to speed with the main developments in the Russia-Ukraine war today:

• A senior aide to President Zelensky has said the country's attack on the Kursk region aims to get Moscow to start fair peace talks to end the war
• Ukraine's forces in Russia's Kursk region have crossed into the neighbouring Belgorod province and a major river crossing to the north has been destroyed
• Russian attacks on Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region killed three civilians and injured five others in the last 24 hours, according to the Reuters news agency
• Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said Pokrovsk in the Donetsk Oblast was one of numerous areas "facing the most intense Russian assaults", with the city's military administration saying it's important residents "don't delay" evacuating the city
• Meanwhile a Ukrainian attack on Russian-occupied central Donetsk caused a fire in a shopping centre that left least seven people injured.

Nord Stream sabotage: Poland denies any involvement published at 17:07 British Summer Time 16 August 17:07 BST 16 August

Poland has denied any involvement in the sabotage of the Nord Stream gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea, after accusations from a former German intelligence chief.

"I think this is Russian disinformation resonating through the words of German politicians," deputy prime minister, Krzysztof Gawkowski, told Polish TV channel Polsat News.

"Poland did not take part in anything. It has to be said clearly that this is a lie," he added. Kyiv has also denied any involvement.

The ex-German intelligence chief - who left his post in 2005 - accused Poland of working with Ukraine on the sabotage in an interview with a German daily, saying both countries should pay Germany compensation.

In September 2022, around seven months after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, key pipelines carrying natural gas from Russia to Germany were badly damaged under the Baltic Sea in an apparent act of sabotage.

Almost two years on, it's still not clear who was responsible for blowing up the Nord Stream pipelines.

But speculation has been rife. And there has been renewed attention in recent days after German state prosecutors issued an arrest warrant on Wednesday for a Ukrainian diving instructor who lives in Poland.

To find out more about the Nord Stream pipeline saga, read on here .

Ukrainian troops celebrate the feast of the Assumption published at 16:42 British Summer Time 16 August 16:42 BST 16 August

Elsewhere, Ukrainian troops in the Donetsk region yesterday celebrated the Christian event of the feast of the Assumption.

A Ukrainian army chaplain gave a homily, which is a type of religious speech, with soldiers in a forest.

At least seven injured in Donetsk strike published at 16:33 British Summer Time 16 August 16:33 BST 16 August

The BBC has seen unverified pictures claiming to show a shopping centre in Donetsk damaged by shelling

At least seven people have been injured in central Donetsk following a Ukrainian strike that caused a fire in a shopping centre, news agencies are reporting.

The city - currently under Russian military control - has been shelled by Ukraine since late this morning, according to Denis Pushilin, the Russia-backed governor of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic.

"Since 12 noon today, the enemy has been carrying out targeted massive strikes on the Petrovsky district of the regional capital. According to preliminary information, seven civilians, including a teenager, were wounded," Pushilin said in a statement on Telegram.

Biden welcomes Russian dissident to White House published at 16:16 British Summer Time 16 August 16:16 BST 16 August

Joe Biden has met with one of 24 prisoners released on 1 August, in the largest Russia-West prisoner exchange since the Cold War.

In a post on X , external , formerly Twitter, the US President said he "welcomed Vladimir Kara-Murza and his family to the White House today to celebrate his return to America".

Kara-Murza, a Russian writer and activist, spent over two years in a facility in Omsk, which he described as one of the harshest prisons in Russia.

He spent 11 months in solitary confinement and told the Washington Post he was certain he would die .

Kara-Murza, who is also a British citizen, was arrested in 2022 for his strong opposition to the invasion of Ukraine.

Belarus says high chance of 'armed provocation' from Ukraine published at 16:02 British Summer Time 16 August 16:02 BST 16 August

Belarusian Defence Minister Viktor Khrenin says there is a "high probability of an armed provocation" from neighbouring Ukraine, according to local state-run media.

Khrenin, who did not provide any evidence to back his claims, made the comments at a meeting on military security with President Alexander Lukashenko.

"Given the presence of Ukrainian armed formations in border areas, there remains a high probability of armed provocations being prepared and carried out on our territory," he says.

Yesterday, Lukashenko - who is a close ally of Vladimir Putin - was interviewed on Russian media and reportedly asked both sides to "sit down at the negotiating table" and end the conflict, according to the Reuters news agency.

While Belarus has not been involved in the war, Russia launched its full-scale invasion into Ukraine in February 2022 from Belarussian soil.

Ukrainian soldiers on patrol near the border with Belarus in September 2023

Putin chairs security council meeting published at 15:39 British Summer Time 16 August 15:39 BST 16 August

Russia's President Vladimir Putin has been chairing a security council meeting this afternoon.

According to the Reuters news agency, Putin said the discussion would focus on "new technical solutions" being employed in the conflict.

Meanwhile, Russia's defence ministry suggested its forces have repelled Ukrainian attacks on villages in the Kursk and Bryansk regions.

Watch: BBC reports on main route from Sumy into Russia published at 15:14 British Summer Time 16 August 15:14 BST 16 August

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The BBC's James Waterhouse says there is a constant flow of armoured vehicles supplied by the West, on the main route from Ukraine's Sumy region into Russia.

Sumy borders the Kursk region in Russia, which came under a surprise attack last week by Ukrainian forces.

Russian authorities have declared a state of emergency in the area and as James reports, must now decide how it responds to the incursion into its territory.

Inside Kursk: People are 'paralysed by horror', says resident published at 14:55 British Summer Time 16 August 14:55 BST 16 August

Kursk residents gather outside a building hit by debris

It has been a "very, very, extremely anxious" time and "very frightening" since the Ukrainian incursion began, a Kursk resident has told the BBC's Ukrainecast programme.

"It's anger, it's fright, it's fear, it's anxiety, it's sadness, it's grief," says Zhenya, whose name has been changed.

She says the hardest part has been seeing destruction in the city where she grew up, "where I know everything, a post office, the shops, everything, it's devastating".

It was at this moment that Zhenya realised that the war had finally reached her, "like a boomerang".

"Some people are just literally paralysed by the horror of everything that's going on," she says.

But others are refusing to admit what is happening, Zhenya says, "even though that's harder and harder every day".

Watching this war since it began two years ago, Zhenya kept thinking "this could have been my city".

"Well now it is."

Canadian weapons can be used in Russia, says defence ministry published at 14:37 British Summer Time 16 August 14:37 BST 16 August

Ukraine is free to use weapons donated by Canada on Russian territory, Canada's Department of National Defence has said.

"Ukrainians know best how to defend their homeland, and we're committed to supporting their capacity," said Andrée-Anne Poulin, a defence department spokesperson.

It comes after video footage reportedly showed a Canadian-made patrol vehicle crossing into Russia.

"Canada places no geographic restrictions on the use of military equipment that we donate to Ukraine," Poulin added.

Canada has committed $4.5 billion (£3.5 billion) in military aid since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, including tanks, drones, anti-aircraft artillery, ammunition, missiles and armoured vehicles.

Leopard tanks were sent from Canada to Ukraine last year

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Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, August 10, 2024

Christina Harward, Angelica Evans, Grace Mappes, Kateryna Stepanenko, Davit Gasparyan, and George Barros

August 10, 2024, 8:35pm ET  

Click here to see ISW’s interactive map of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This map is updated daily alongside the static maps present in this report.

Click here to see ISW’s 3D control of terrain topographic map of Ukraine. Use of a computer (not a mobile device) is strongly recommended for using this data-heavy tool.

Click here to access ISW’s archive of interactive time-lapse maps of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. These maps complement the static control-of-terrain map that ISW produces daily by showing a dynamic frontline. ISW will update this time-lapse map archive monthly.

Note: The data cut-off for this product was 12:30pm ET on August 10. ISW will cover subsequent reports in the August 11 Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment. [NOTE: Russian sources are currently shifting much of their reporting to cover the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast and as a result are not providing the same level of detail about the situation along the frontline in Ukraine. ]

The Russian National Antiterrorism Committee announced a counterterrorism operation in Belgorod, Bryansk, and Kursk oblasts on August 9 in response to the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast.  The Federal Security Service (FSB) Head and National Antiterrorism Committee Chairperson Alexander Bortnikov announced counterterrorism operations in Belgorod, Bryansk, and Kursk oblasts in response to "sabotage and reconnaissance units" conducting "terrorist acts" in Russia and "units of the Ukrainian armed forces" conducting a "terrorist attack" in Kursk Oblast.[1] The counterterrorism operation allows Russian authorities to take a number of measures, including suspending or restricting communications services, monitoring telecommunication channels, confiscating vehicles, and entering private property.[2] Russian authorities previously announced a counterterrorism operation in Belgorod Oblast for one day in May 2023 in response to raids by all-Russian pro-Ukrainian elements.[3] The Kremlin notably did not elect to declare a formal state of war against Ukraine or martial law — more serious responses that would marshal greater Russian state resources through wider, and more domestically disruptive, mobilization.

The Kremlin likely decided to declare a counterterrorism operation — as opposed to a state of war or martial law — to downplay the scale of the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast and prevent domestic panic or backlash — demonstrating the Kremlin's reluctance to take more drastic measures to respond to the situation.  Russian opposition outlet  Verstka  reported on August 8 that a source close to the Russian Federation Council's defense committee stated that the Russian Presidential Administration recommended that Russian deputies and senators not comment on the events in Kursk Oblast "until further notice" or discuss it as briefly as possible and refer only to official statements.[4] Russian milbloggers have been suggesting that the Kremlin formally declare war against Ukraine and criticized the Kremlin for failing to declare martial law instead of the counterterrorism operation.[5] The declaration of martial law notably would have allowed Russian authorities to take more drastic measures, such as prohibiting rallies and demonstrations, enacting curfews, and organizing the production of defense articles for the military.[6] Russian President Vladimir Putin has refrained from officially declaring a state of war, has repeatedly demonstrated his unwillingness to transfer Russian society fully to a war-time footing, and has forgone declaring general mobilization as part of wider efforts to prevent domestic discontent that could threaten the stability of Putin's regime.[7]  

Putin likely appointed Bortnikov as the head of the counterterrorist operation because Bortnikov had previously proven himself to be an effective manager during crises that threatened Russian domestic stability and the Kremlin regime.  Article 13 of the Russian federal law "On Countering Terrorism" states that "the person who made the decision to conduct a counterterrorism operation...is the head of the counterterrorism operation and bears personal responsibility for its conduct" — indicating that Bortnikov will head the counterterrorism operation.[8] Bortnikov reportedly secured security guarantees for now-deceased Wagner Group financier Yevgeny Prigozhin in negotiations to end Wagner's June 24, 2023 rebellion, and Putin publicly praised the FSB for guaranteeing Russian security and sovereignty directly following his reelection in March 2024.[9] The declaration of the counterterrorism operation under Bortnikov suggests that Putin was dissatisfied with the Russian military command's handling or ability to handle the situation in Kursk Oblast. Chief of the General Staff Army General Valery Gerasimov attempted to portray the Northern Grouping of Forces and FSB as effectively controlling the situation and stopping Ukrainian advances in Kursk Oblast during a meeting with Putin on August 7.[10] Putin led a meeting of the permanent members of the Security Council on August 9 that discussed "combatting terrorism" in Russia.[11] The Kremlin stated that Bortnikov gave a report during the meeting, and the Security Council likely discussed the counterterrorism operation in the border area. Gerasimov is notably not a permanent member of the Security Council and was not present at the meeting, but Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov is.

A complicated command and control (C2) arrangement for the FSB-led counterterrorism operation under Bortnikov may degrade the effectiveness of the Russian response to Ukraine’s operation.  Article 9 of the law on counterterrorism operations states that "units and formations of the Russian Armed Forces are involved in the conduct of a counterterrorism operation by decision of the head of the counterterrorism operation."[12] Rosgvardia stated on August 10 that elements from Rosgvardia, the FSB, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD) are participating in the counterterrorism operation in Belgorod, Bryansk, and Kursk oblasts.[13] The Belgorod, Bryansk, and Kursk oblasts border areas are within the area of responsibility (AOR) of the Russian Northern Grouping of Forces, and elements under the Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) are likely the best equipped to push Ukrainian forces back in the area. It is unclear how the FSB and Bortnikov will establish a clear joint C2 organization among these disparate elements, and there will likely be friction and bureaucratic obstacles between the FSB and other structures that will reduce Russian forces' overall combat effectiveness.

The Russian MoD appears to be relying on a combination of Russian conscripts already operating in Kursk Oblast, elements of the Northern Grouping of Forces, and elements redeployed from lower-priority frontline areas in Ukraine to defend against the Ukrainian operation in Kursk Oblast, likely exacerbating the disorganization of Russia’s chosen response.  Russian milbloggers claimed on August 9 and 10 that Russian forces began laterally redeploying some units from elsewhere on the frontline and transferring reserves to defend in Kursk Oblast, with one milblogger claiming that Russian forces are redeploying up to nine unspecified brigades to Kursk Oblast.[14] A prominent Ukrainian Telegram channel stated   on August 9 that Russian forces redeployed elements of the following units from frontline areas to defend in Kursk Oblast: two airborne (VDV) battalions and elements of the 810th Naval Infantry Brigade (Black Sea Fleet [BSF]) from the Kherson direction; elements of the 38th and 64th motorized rifle brigades (35th Combined Arms Army [CAA], Eastern Military District [EMD]) from the Zaporizhia direction; several unspecified infantry battalions from the Pokrovsk direction in Donetsk Oblast; "bearded" ( borodatie ) fighters from Luhansk Oblast (likely referring to Chechen Akhmat units); elements of the 1009th Motorized Rifle Regiment (6th CAA, Leningrad Military District [LMD]), 79th Motorized Rifle Regiment (18th Motorized Rifle Division, 11th Army Corps [AC], LMD), 272nd Motorized Rifle Regiment (47th Tank Division, 1st Guards Tank Army [GTA], Moscow Military District [MMD]), and 138th Motorized Rifle Brigade (6th CAA, LMD) from northern Kharkiv Oblast; an infantry battalion of the 488th Motorized Rifle Regiment (144th Motorized Rifle Division, 20th CAA, MMD) from the Kupyansk direction; a company of an unspecified motorized rifle brigade operating in Grayvoron Raion, Belgorod Oblast; and a motorized rifle regiment that was operating near Sotnytskyi Kozachok, Kharkiv Oblast.[15] The Russian military command appears to be avoiding redeploying significant elements of combat effective units from the Pokrovsk and Toretsk sectors — Russia‘s assessed priority sectors in eastern Ukraine . [16]

The Ukrainian source noted that these redeployments are a combination of frontline units, units with no combat experience, conscripts, and elements of Russia’s operational reserve.[17] ISW is unable to confirm the entirety of the Ukrainian source's claims of Russian redeployments but has observed some corroborating reporting. Russian sources largely claimed and posted footage of elements of the Russian 810th Naval Infantry Brigade fighting near Sudzha and Martynovka on August 10.[18] Ukrainian forces reportedly took conscripts of the 488th Motorized Rifle Regiment and the 1428th Motorized Rifle Regiment (150th Motorized Rifle Division, 8th CAA, Southern Military District [SMD]) as prisoners of war (POWs) in Kursk Oblast.[19] ISW has also previously observed elements of the Chechen "Aida" detachment redeploying to Kursk Oblast and elements of the "Pyatnashka" volunteer brigade redeploying from Donetsk Oblast to Kursk Oblast.[20] A Ukrainian military expert assessed that elements of the Russian 155th Naval Infantry Brigade (BSF) may also be fighting in Kursk Oblast following recent reporting that the 155th Brigade was operating in northern Kharkiv Oblast.[21]

Russian forces' usage of conscripts and forces already in Kursk Oblast, nearby forces fighting in northern Kharkiv Oblast, and lateral redeployments across the theater to defend against the Ukrainian incursion is consistent with a number of likely Russian courses of action (COAs) that ISW forecasted .[22] ISW forecasted four likely COAs involving the forces the Russian command could choose to defend against the Ukrainian incursion, including: COA 1, forecasting that the Russians could decide to use existing forces and conscripts already defending in the international border area; COA 2, forecasting that the Russian command could pull from the Northern Grouping of Forces within and nearby Kursk Oblast; and COA 3, forecasting that Russia could redeploy operational reserves or frontline units from elsewhere in the theater.[23] Redeployments of conscripts, elements of the Northern Grouping of Forces, and select units from frontline areas in Ukraine suggest that the Russian military command has determined that possible disruptions to the offensive operations in northern Kharkiv Oblast and other less-critical frontline areas are an acceptable risk to adequately respond to the Ukrainian incursion. The Kremlin has seemingly chosen to avoid redeployments from higher priority sectors on the frontline in Donetsk Oblast. A prominent Russian milblogger and former Storm-Z instructor assessed that these redeployments are weakening frontline units in other operational directions and demonstrate that Russia largely lacks operational reserves.[24] Should the Russian command choose to keep these redeployed reserves and frontline units in Kursk Oblast in the near- to medium-term, it will likely further exacerbate the C2 struggles in Kursk Oblast that will likely emerge from treating the Russian defense against Ukraine's conventional military operation as a "counterterrorism operation" that is subordinated to the FSB and Bortnikov. These decisions can present vulnerabilities and opportunities that Ukrainian forces can exploit.

The Russian MoD appears to be relying on select, battle-hardened units to conduct offensive and defensive operations in its most critical sectors of the front.  The Russian command has previously laterally redeployed elements of the 155th Naval Infantry Brigade, 810th Naval Infantry Brigade, the "Pyatnashka" volunteer brigade, and VDV units across multiple sectors of eastern and southern Ukraine to conduct offensive operations during intense Russian offensive efforts. The Russian 155th Naval Infantry Brigade most notably participated in the failed Russian push for Vuhledar in late 2022 to early 2023, then fought southwest of Donetsk City near Marinka, and deployed to participate in the Russian offensive north of Kharkiv City in May 2024 - largely without significant rest and reconstitution.[25] The Pyatnashka Brigade defended against the Ukrainian 2023 counteroffensive in southern Ukraine and fought for Avdiivka in the Spring of 2024.[26] The 810th Naval Infantry Brigade fought for Volnovakha and Mariupol, Donetsk Oblast, and defended against the Ukrainian effort in east (left) bank Kherson Oblast near Krynky.[27] Many of these units reportedly have been completely destroyed and reconstituted multiple times due to the Russian command's reliance on them on the battlefield, and their redeployment to Kursk Oblast from elsewhere on the frontline could degrade Russian forces' capabilities within Ukraine.

Russian forces appear to be more adequately defending against Ukrainian assaults following the arrival of additional conscripts and more combat effective personnel from frontline areas in Ukraine.  Ukrainian forces’ rate of confirmed advances in Kursk Oblast has slowed following the reported introduction of various Russian military units in Kursk Oblast. Russian milbloggers claimed on August 10 that Russian forces, including elements of the Russian 810th Naval Infantry Brigade (Black Sea Fleet), repelled company-sized Ukrainian mechanized assaults in the directions of Korenevo (north of Sumy City and roughly 23 kilometers north of the international border), Snagost (south of Korenevo), Lgov, and Martynovka (northeast of Suzhda) on the night of August 9 and 10.[28] Elements of the 810th Naval Infantry Brigade were previously reported in both the Kharkiv and Kherson directions as of June 2024.[29] A Russian milblogger claimed that an unspecified "newly formed and untested" Russian unit repelled a Ukrainian armored assault near Korenevo on August 9.[30] Russian milbloggers claimed that Russian forces, particularly elements of the 810th Naval Infantry Brigade and the Chechen Akhmat Spetsnaz "Aida" Detachment, seized Martynovka and Zamostye (just south of Sudzha).[31] The “Aida” Detachment was reportedly operating in the vicinity of Vovchansk, Kharkiv Oblast as of mid-June 2024.[32] Russian milbloggers also claimed that Russian forces re-took Makhnovka (south of Sudzha), although geolocated footage published on August 10 indicates that Ukrainian forces maintain positions in the settlement, assuming the footage is recent.[33]

Geolocated footage and Russian reporting from August 10 indicate that Ukrainian forces largely maintain previously reported positions in Kursk Oblast and have advanced slightly further than their previously confirmed positions.  A Kremlin-affiliated Russian milblogger claimed that Ukrainian forces are operating in a forest area north of Lyubimovka (south of Korenevo).[34] Russian milbloggers claimed that Ukrainian forces are also maintaining positions northwest of Sudzha near Kazachya Loknya and Yuzhny and west of Sudzha near Zaoleshenka and Goncharovka.[35] Additional geolocated footage published on August 10 indicates that Ukrainian forces previously held positions north of Sudzha near Cherkasskoye Porechnoye, though this footage is likely not from the past 24 hours.[36] Geolocated footage published on August 9 indicates that Ukrainian forces maintain positions north of Sverdilkovo (northwest of Sudzha) and within Rubanshchina (just west of Sudzha).[37] Additional geolocated footage published on August 10 indicates that Ukrainian forces maintain positions within northern Sudzha, and most Russian milbloggers claimed that Ukrainian forces are operating on the western outskirts of Sudzha.[38] Geolocated footage published on August 10 indicates that Ukrainian forces maintain positions south of Sudzha near Melovoi and Guyevo.[39] Russian milbloggers claimed that Ukrainian forces are continuing operations south of Sudzha along the Gornal-Guyevo-Plekhovo line, and one Russian milblogger claimed that Ukrainian forces seized Plekhovo.[40] Russian milbloggers claimed that Ukrainian forces also conducted isolated raids into Poroz and Mokraya Orlovka (west of Belgorod City and along the international border), Belgorod Oblast on August 10, but that Ukrainian forces do not maintain positions in these settlements.[41]

Russian sources claimed that they conducted a successful Iskander-M ballistic missile strike against Ukrainian forces in Kursk Oblast. The Russian MoD claimed on August 10 that Russian forces struck a command post of the Ukrainian forces near the Kursk Oblast border area.[42] Geolocated footage published on August 10 purportedly shows that Russian forces struck a position of the Ukrainian forces east of Sheptukhovka, Kursk Oblast.[43] An OSINT analyst on X reported on August 10 that the footage published by the Russian MoD indicates that the Russian forces missed nearby vehicles of the Ukrainian forces that they were aiming at.[44] Russian milbloggers claimed that Russian forces repelled a Ukrainian attack just north of Sheptukhovka near Kauchuk on the night of August 9 to 10.[45]

Ukraine’s cross-border operation into Kursk Oblast threatens the Kremlin with a potential political crisis regarding causalities among Russian conscripts, whom the Kremlin has increasingly relied upon to defend the Russian state border with Ukraine.  Russian opposition and social media outlets began disseminating initial complaints from the family members of Russian conscripts on August 10 about the involvement of Russian conscripts in the Russian border defense operations.[46] Although these complaints are limited in number and have not resulted in a unified movement, the Kremlin has previously expressed grave concern over public responses to its illegal use of conscripts in combat operations. The Kremlin previously faced notable societal backlash in the spring of 2022 for illegally committing Russian conscripts to the frontlines in Ukraine and faced criticism for relying on conscripts to repel previous pro-Ukrainian border raids and respond to the Wagner Group mutiny in the summer of 2023.[47] Russian President Vladimir Putin notably attempted to appease Russian conscripts’ mothers by emphasizing on March 8, 2022, that Russia would not use conscripts in combat operations.[48] Putin, however, continued to institute contradictory policies that further involved conscripts in the defense of the Russian-Ukrainian international border, likely in an effort to shuffle conventional combat forces previously on border guard duty so they could be deployed for operations in Ukraine. Putin notably signed a bill in December 2023 allowing conscripts to serve in the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) — the primary Russian service responsible for border security.[49] The Kremlin may need to justify its controversial reliance on conscripts in border security operations to appease Russian society, as Putin had done so following controversies in 2022 and 2023. Russian State Duma Deputy and former Deputy Commander of the Southern Military District (SMD) Lieutenant General Andrei Gurulev recently stated on Russian state television that conscripts’ participation in combat operations is normal given that Russia had previously used conscripts in the   Soviet Union’s Afghan and Russia’s Chechen wars.[50] Several Russian conscripts are confirmed to have been taken prisoner in Kursk Oblast since August 6.[51]

Ukrainian forces recently struck a Russian ship and a gas platform in the western Black Sea.  Ukraine's Main Military Intelligence Directorate (GUR) reported on August 10 that the GUR's "Group 13" unit struck a Russian "Tunets" KS-701 project high-speed patrol boat near occupied Chornomorske, Crimea on the night of August 8 to 9.[52] Geolocated footage published on August 10 shows a Ukrainian naval drone approaching the boat in Vuzka Bay, and the GUR reported that Ukrainian naval drones also damaged three other Russian watercraft, which the GUR is working to identify.[53] Geolocated footage published on August 10 indicates that Ukrainian forces conducted a strike on a Russian gas platform in the Black Sea.[54] Ukrainian Navy Spokesperson Captain Third Rank Dmytro Pletenchuk stated on August 10 that Russian forces stationed military personnel and equipment on the platform less than a day before the strike and were using the gas platform for GPS spoofing to endanger civilian shipping in the Black Sea, particularly to disrupt the Ukraine grain corridor.[55]

Iran will reportedly deliver "hundreds" of ballistic missiles to Russia in the near future.   Reuters,  citing multiple intelligence sources including two European intelligence sources,   reported on August 9 that Russian MoD representatives signed a contract with Iran on December 13, 2023, for the delivery of Fath-360 close range ballistic missiles and that Iran will deliver these missiles at an unspecified “soon” time.[56] The Fath-360 missiles have a maximum range of 120 kilometers and a warhead weighing 150 kilograms. Multiple intelligence sources also told  Reuters  that dozens of Russian military personnel are currently training in Iran to operate Fath-360 missile systems. Western and Ukrainian sources have previously warned that Iran may be preparing to provide Russia with short range ballistic systems, including multiple systems with maximum ranges and payloads significantly greater than the limits imposed upon Russia under its Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) obligations.[57] These short-range ballistic missiles will likely allow Russian forces to strike Ukrainian near-rear targets while reserving its own missile stockpiles (such as Iskander missiles) for deep-rear Ukrainian targets.

Key Takeaways:

• The Russian National Antiterrorism Committee announced a counterterrorism operation in Belgorod, Bryansk, and Kursk oblasts on August 9 in response to the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast.
• The Kremlin likely decided to declare a counterterrorism operation - as opposed to a state of war or martial law - to downplay the scale of the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast and prevent domestic panic or backlash - demonstrating the Kremlin's reluctance to take more drastic measures to respond to the situation.
• Putin likely appointed Bortnikov as the head of the counterterrorist operation because Bortnikov has previously proven himself to be an effective manager during crises that threatened Russian domestic stability and the Kremlin regime.
• A complicated command and control (C2) arrangement for the FSB-led counterterrorism operation under Bortnikov may degrade the effectiveness of the Russian response to Ukraine’s operation.
• The Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) appears to be relying on a combination of Russian conscripts already operating in Kursk Oblast, elements of the Northern Grouping of Forces, and elements redeployed from lower-priority frontline areas in Ukraine to defend against the Ukrainian operation in Kursk Oblast, likely exacerbating the disorganization of Russia’s chosen response.
• Russian forces' usage of conscripts and forces already in Kursk Oblast, nearby forces fighting in northern Kharkiv Oblast, and lateral redeployments across the theater to defend against the Ukrainian incursion is consistent with a number of likely Russian courses of action (COAs) that ISW forecasted.
• The Russian MoD appears to be relying on select, battle-hardened units to conduct offensive and defensive operations in its most critical sectors of the front.
• Russian forces appear to be more adequately defending against Ukrainian assaults following the arrival of additional conscripts and more combat effective personnel from frontline areas in Ukraine.
• Geolocated footage and Russian reporting from August 10 indicates that Ukrainian forces largely maintain previously reported positions in Kursk Oblast and have advanced slightly further than their previously confirmed positions.
• Ukraine’s cross-border operation into Kursk Oblast threatens the Kremlin with a potential political crisis regarding causalities among Russian conscripts, whom the Kremlin has increasingly relied upon to defend the Russian state border with Ukraine.
• Ukrainian forces recently struck a Russian ship and a gas platform in the western Black Sea.
• Iran will reportedly deliver "hundreds" of ballistic missiles to Russia in the near future.
• Russian forces recently advanced near Kreminna, Toretsk, Pokrovsk, and Donetsk City.
• A Russian milblogger claimed that the Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) has begun to form the "Black Raven" strike drone volunteer unit and asked readers to donate to the 16-million-ruble (about $184,324) goal to supply the unit with drones and equipment.

We do not report in detail on Russian war crimes because these activities are well-covered in Western media and do not directly affect the military operations we are assessing and forecasting. We will continue to evaluate and report on the effects of these criminal activities on the Ukrainian military and the Ukrainian population and specifically on combat in Ukrainian urban areas. We utterly condemn Russian violations of the laws of armed conflict and the Geneva Conventions and crimes against humanity even though we do not describe them in these reports.

• Russian Main Effort – Eastern Ukraine (comprised of three subordinate main efforts)
• Russian Subordinate Main Effort #1 – Push Ukrainian forces back from the international border with Belgorod Oblast and approach to within tube artillery range of Kharkiv City
• Russian Subordinate Main Effort #2 – Capture the remainder of Luhansk Oblast and push westward into eastern Kharkiv Oblast and encircle northern Donetsk Oblast
• Russian Subordinate Main Effort #3 – Capture the entirety of Donetsk Oblast
• Russian Supporting Effort – Southern Axis
• Russian Air, Missile, and Drone Campaign
• Russian Mobilization and Force Generation Efforts
• Russian Technological Adaptations
• Activities in Russian-occupied areas
• Ukrainian Defense Industrial Base Efforts

Russian Information Operations and Narratives

• Significant Activity in Belarus

Russian Main Effort – Eastern Ukraine

Russian Subordinate Main Effort #1 – Kharkiv Oblast   ( Russian objective: Push Ukrainian forces back from the international border with Belgorod Oblast and approach to within tube artillery range of Kharkiv City)

A prominent Russian milblogger denied on August 10 recent claims that Russian forces seized Lukashivka, Sumy Oblast, and Sotnytskyi Kozachok, Kharkiv Oblast, and claimed that these settlements have changed hands several times throughout the war as there are not adequate defensive positions in which either Russian or Ukrainian forces can establish enduring positions.[58]

Russian forces continued offensive operations in northern Kharkiv Oblast, but there were no confirmed changes to the frontline. Fighting continued north of Kharkiv City near Hlyboke and northeast of Kharkiv City near Vovchansk and Starytsya on August 9 and 10.[59] Ukraine's Kharkiv Group of Forces stated on August 10 that Russian forces regrouped assault groups of the 153rd Tank Regiment (47th Tank Division, 1st Guards Tank Army [GTA], Moscow Military District [MMD]) in preparation for future assaults and rotated elements of the 138th Motorized Rifle Brigade (6th Combined Arms Army [CAA], Leningrad Military District [LMD]) within Vovchansk.[60]

Russian Subordinate Main Effort #2 – Luhansk Oblast  (Russian objective: Capture the remainder of Luhansk Oblast and push westward into eastern Kharkiv Oblast and northern Donetsk Oblast)

Russian forces advanced near Kreminna on an unspecified date and continued offensive operations along the Kupyansk-Svatove-Kreminna line on August 10. Geolocated footage published on August 7 indicates that Russian forces advanced northwest of Zolotarivka (south of Kreminna), but this Russian advance likely did not occur recently.[61] A Russian milblogger claimed that Russian forces advanced west of Novoselivske (southeast of Kupyansk), but ISW has not observed confirmation of this claim. The Ukrainian General Staff reported that Russian forces conducted offensive operations southeast of Kupyansk near Stelmakhivka, Berestove, Kolisnykivka, and Tabaivka; northwest of Kreminna near Nevske and Makiivka; and southwest of Kreminna in the Serebryanske forest area on August 9 and 10.[62]

Russian Subordinate Main Effort #3 – Donetsk Oblast  (Russian objective: Capture the entirety of Donetsk Oblast, the claimed territory of Russia’s proxies in Donbas)

Russian forces continued offensive operations around Siversk on August 9 and 10 but did not advance. The Ukrainian General Staff reported on August 9 and 10 that Russian forces attacked northeast of Siversk near Bilohorivka; east of Siversk near Verkhnokamyanske; and southeast of Siversk near Spirne, Ivano-Darivka, and Vyimka.[63]

Russian forces did not make confirmed advances in the Chasiv Yar direction on August 9 and 10. Russian forces continued offensive operations near Chasiv Yar; east of Chasiv Yar near Ivanivske; and south of Chasiv Yar near Stupochky and Bila Hora.[64] A Kremlin-affiliated milblogger claimed that Russian forces advanced in the Zhovtnevyi Microraion in Chasiv Yar, but ISW did not observe visual evidence confirming this claim.[65] Elements of the Russian 1194th Motorized Rifle Regiment (6th Motorized Rifle Division, 3rd Army Corps [AC]) are reportedly operating in the Oleksandro-Shultyne (southwest of Chasiv Yar) direction.[66]

Russian forces recently marginally advanced in the Toretsk direction and continued offensive operations in the area on August 9 and 10. Geolocated footage published on August 9 indicates that Russian forces advanced in northern Druzhba (east of Toretsk), and a Kremlin-affiliated milblogger claimed that Russian forces advanced in Druzhba and expanded their control area by 400 meters in Niu York (south of Toretsk).[67] Russian milbloggers also claimed that Russian forces advanced in the fields west of Ozaryanivka (northeast of Toretsk) and in the fields southwest of Yurivka (south of Toretsk), but ISW has not observed confirmation of these claims.[68] Russian forces continued offensive operations near Toretsk, Niu York, and Dyliivka (north of Toretsk).[69] A Russian milblogger claimed that the Russian Center Grouping of Forces (GoF) is fighting in the Toretsk direction and specified that elements of the newly reestablished 51st Army are operating in the Niu York area.[70] The milblogger noted that the 132nd Motorized Rifle Brigade, ”Sparta” Reconnaissance Battalion, and ”Somalia” Battalion (all part of the 1st Donetsk People's Republic [DNR] AC) are now part of the 51st Army. Ukrainian officials previously reported that elements of the Russian 9th Motorized Rifle Brigade (1st DNR AC) were also operating as part of the 51st Army, which suggests that the Russian military likely reformed the Second World War-era 51st Army and formed it from DNR military units.[71] A Kremlin-affiliated milblogger specified that engineers of the ”Lavina” Battalion of the 132nd Motorized Rifle Brigade are operating in the Horlivka direction.[72]

Russian forces likely recently seized Nevelske (southeast of Pokrovsk). Geolocated footage published on August 9 shows Russian forces raising a Russian flag in northwestern Nevelske on the settlement’s westernmost administrative border, and Russian sources credited elements of the Russian 110th Motorized Rifle Brigade (1st DNR AC) with the seizure of the settlement.[73] Russian sources also claimed that Russian forces advanced northwest of Serhiivka (southeast of Pokrovsk) and in the field north of Lozuvatske (east of Pokrovsk), and seized Ivanivka (east of Pokrovsk).[74] ISW had not observed visual confirmation of these claims, however. Russian forces continued offensive operations east of Pokrovsk near Vozdvyzhenka, Novooleksandrivka, Zelene Pole, Hrodivka, Kalynove; and southeast of Pokrovsk near Zhelanne, Yasnobrodivka, and Karlivka on August 9 and 10.[75] The Ukrainian General Staff specified that Russian forces launched the most attacks against the Hrodivka and Zhelanne areas.[76] Elements of the Russian “Volga” Brigade are reportedly operating in Vesele (southeast of Pokrovsk).[77]

Russian forces recently advanced southwest of Donetsk City near Kostyantynivka. Geolocated footage published on August 10 shows that Russian forces advanced in southeastern and northeastern Kostyantynivka, and advanced in the fields southeast of Vodyane.[78] Russian forces continued attacks west of Donetsk City near Krasnohorivka and Heorhiivka; and southwest of Donetsk City near Paraskoviivka, Kostyantynivka, Vodyane, and Oleksandrivka.[79] Drone operators of the Russian “Kayra” detachment are reportedly operating in the Kostyantynivka area.[80]

Elements of the Russian 11th Air Force and Air Defense Army (Eastern Military District [EMD], and Russian Aerospace Forces [VKS]) continue to operate near Blahodatne (south of Velyka Novosilka).[81]

Russian Supporting Effort – Southern Axis  (Russian objective: Maintain frontline positions and secure rear areas against Ukrainian strikes)

Positional fighting continued in western Zaporizhia Oblast near Mala Tokmachka (northeast of Robotyne) on August 9 and 10.[82] Elements of the Russian 429th Motorized Rifle Regiment (19th Motorized Rifle Division, 58th Combined Army Corps [CAA], Southern Military District [SMD]) are reportedly operating in the western Zaporizhia direction.[83]

The Ukrainian General Staff reported that Russian forces conducted attacks in the Dnipro direction (Kherson Oblast) on August 10.[84] Elements of the Russian 104th Guards Air Assault Regiment (76th Guards Air Assault Division, Russian Airborne Forces [VDV]) are reportedly operating in the Kherson direction.[85] Snipers of the Russian 80th Separate Arctic Motorized Rifle Brigade (14th Army Corps [AC], Leningrad Military District [LMD]) operating in the Kakhovka direction (in the east [left] bank Kherson Oblast).[86]

Russian Air, Missile, and Drone Campaign  (Russian Objective: Target Ukrainian military and civilian infrastructure in the rear and on the frontline)

Donetsk Oblast Head Vadym Filashkin stated on August 10 that Russian forces struck critical infrastructure in Kramatorsk, Donetsk Oblast with an unspecified missile.[87]

Russian Mobilization and Force Generation Efforts  (Russian objective: Expand combat power without conducting general mobilization)

A Russian milblogger claimed that the Russian MoD has begun to form the "Black Raven" strike drone volunteer unit and asked readers to donate to the 16-million-ruble (about $184,324) goal to supply the unit with drones and equipment.[88]

Russian Technological Adaptations  (Russian objective: Introduce technological innovations to optimize systems for use in Ukraine)

The Kremlin continues various measures to bypass Western sanctions and mitigate their impacts on the Russian defense industrial base (DIB). The Russian United Aircraft Corporation stated on August 10 that it manufactured a new batch of Su-30SM2 fighter jets for the Russian MoD, and that the Su-30SM2 fighters contain Russian-produced components to replace foreign components in its predecessor, the Su-30SM.[89] A Russian milblogger claimed that Russian forces are using Iranian-produced 130mm OF-482M artillery shells on an unspecified area of the front line.[90]

Ukrainian Defense Industrial Efforts  (Ukrainian objective: Develop its defense industrial base to become more self-sufficient in cooperation with US, European, and international partners)

ISW is not publishing coverage of Ukrainian defense industrial efforts today.

Activities in Russian-occupied areas  (Russian objective: Consolidate administrative control of annexed areas; forcibly integrate Ukrainian citizens into Russian sociocultural, economic, military, and governance systems)

ISW is not publishing coverage of activities in Russian-occupied areas today.

Russian sources once again insinuated that Ukrainian forces are violating the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) by using grenades and ammunition equipped with hexachloroethane in Kursk Oblast, including near Sudzha.[91] Hexacholoethane is widely used in smoke-producing devices and is not banned by the CWC.[92] The Ukrainian Support Forces Command reported on August 9 that Russian forces in Ukraine are increasing their use of chemical attacks and are largely using K-51 and RG-VO hand gas grenades with riot control agents (RCAS) that are prohibited by the CWC.[93]

The Kremlin continues efforts to destabilize NATO-brokered peace efforts in the Balkans. Serbian President Alexander Vucic claimed on August 10 that Russian intelligence warned him that unspecified actors are preparing to conduct a group in Serbia with support from unspecified "Western powers."[94]

The Kremlin continues efforts to cement its control over the Russian information space. Sources close to Kremlin-affiliated Vkontakte (VK) social media platform told Russian opposition outlet  Verstka  that VK plans to create a new "national messenger" in Russia to replace WhatsApp.[95] Russian officials previously announced that Russian federal censor Roskomnadzor will crack down against users registering for anonymous social media accounts by forcing applications, including Telegram and WhatsApp, to require phone numbers to register for an account and to establish communications with telecommunications companies to prevent Russians from registering accounts using gray market SIM cards.[96]

Significant activity in Belarus  (Russian efforts to increase its military presence in Belarus and further integrate Belarus into Russian-favorable frameworks and Wagner Group activity in Belarus)

Belarusian officials announced on August 10 that Belarus will strengthen its force concentrations along the border with Ukraine in response to claims that Ukraine violated Belarusian airspace and the ongoing Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko announced that Belarus destroyed roughly a dozen Ukrainian drones over Belarus on the evening on August 9 and claimed that Ukraine's supposed "provocations" will not go unanswered.[97] Belarusian Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin announced on August 10 that Belarus considers the violation of its airspace as a "provocation" and that Lukashenko ordered the Belarusian military to strengthen the groupings in the Gomel and Mozyr tactical directions.[98] A Kremlin-affiliated Russian milblogger called on the Belarusian government to act within the Union State framework and increase its support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine.[99]

Note: ISW does not receive any classified material from any source, uses only publicly available information, and draws extensively on Russian, Ukrainian, and Western reporting and social media as well as commercially available satellite imagery and other geospatial data as the basis for these reports. References to all sources used are provided in the endnotes of each update.

[1] http://nac.gov dot ru/kontrterroristicheskie-operacii/na-territoriyah-belgorodskoy-bryanskoy-i-kurskoy.html

[2] https://www.rbc dot ru/politics/10/08/2024/66b695149a7947393ae67448

[3] https://isw.pub/UkrWar052223 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar052323

[4] https://t.me/svobodnieslova/5422

[5] https://t.me/voenkorKotenok/58022 ; https://t.me/voenkorKotenok/58024; https://t.me/Alekhin_Telega/11184

[6] http://www.kremlin dot ru/acts/bank/17804

[7] https://isw.pub/UkrWar072424 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-may-15-2024 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar040324 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar040424https://isw.pub/UkrWar021424 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar072424

[8] http://www.kremlin dot ru/acts/bank/23522/page/2

[9] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-july-10-2023; https://isw.pub/UkrWar062723 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-march-19-2024

[10] https://isw.pub/UkrWar08072024

[11] http://kremlin dot ru/events/president/news/74809

[12] http://www.kremlin dot ru/acts/bank/23522/page/2

[13] https://t.me/RosgvardOfficial/6734

[14] https://t.me/NgP_raZVedka/18601; https://t.me/motopatriot/25990

[15] https://t.me/vanek_nikolaev/25705; https://t.me/vanek_nikolaev/25703

[16] https://isw.pub/UkrWar080824 ; https://isw.pub/IranUpdate080122

[17] https://t.me/vanek_nikolaev/25705

[18] https://t.me/dva_majors/49280 ; https://t.me/motopatriot/25982; https://t.me/voenkorKotenok/58107; https://t.me/warhistoryalconafter/178506 ; https://t.me/dva_majors/49343 ; https://t.me/milinfolive/128032; https://t.me/NgP_raZVedka/18596 ; https://t.me/notes_veterans/18696; https://x.com/moklasen/status/1822208820728222040; https://t.me/voenacher/69936; https://t.me/romanov_92/45011;

[19] https://x.com/Danspiun/status/1822317125114970377; https://t.me/poisk_in_ua/70626; https://t.me/poisk_in_ua/70625; https://x.com/Danspiun/status/1822320550858899887; https://x.com/Danspiun/status/1822311993660838238;

[20] https://euromaidanpress.com/2024/08/09/ukraines-surprise-kursk-incursion-lifting-spirits-or-stretching-resources/ ; https://x.com/Tatarigami_UA/status/1821682251480072381; https://t.me/dva_majors/49169; https://t.me/iamsniper/6201; https://t.me/dva_majors/49177; https://t.me/astrapress/61557; https://x.com/666_mancer/status/1821882973689377092; https://t.me/istories_media/7173 ; https://t.me/dva_majors/49098; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-8-2024

[21] https://armyinform dot com.ua/2024/08/10/u-kursku-oblast-rosiyany-perekynuly-morski-motolygy-do-chogo-tut-harkiv/;

[22] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-8-2024

[23] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-8-2024

[24] https://t.me/philologist_zov/1198

[25] https://nv dot ua/ukr/ukraine/events/viyna-v-ukrajini-10-naybilshih-peremog-ukrajini-za-rik-shcho-minuv-z-24-lyutogo-2022-50306472.html; https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2023/bbc-eye-russian-marines-ukraine/; https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2024/02/12/defeated-several-times-the-russian-155th-brigade-finally-captured-a-few-village-blocks-but-only-because-russian-snipers-forced-it-forward/?sh=3d30319b2187; https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2023/02/08/smashed-by-ukrainian-mines-and-artillery-russias-winter-offensive-just-ground-to-a-halt-outside-vuhledar/; https://www.businessinsider.com/same-russian-brigade-destroyed-and-reformed-8-times-report-2023-3; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-march-24-2023

[26] https://www.rferl.org/a/inside-avdiyivka-russia-occupation/32832165.html; https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-invasion-russia-soviet-symbols/32667534.html; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-may-4-2024; https://www.newsweek.com/russia-black-sea-chemical-weapons-kherson-dnieper-river-ukraine-1855249

[27] https://warheroes dot ru/hero/hero.asp?Hero_id=32111; https://web.archive.org/web/20220323105959/https://sevastopol.su/news/v-boyah-pod-mariupolem-pogib-komandir-810-y-brigady-chf-polkovnik-aleksey-sharov; https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2024/01/31/the-ukrainian-marines-hit-the-russian-marines-so-hard-they-blew-the-russians-back-to-1980/

[28] https://t.me/warhistoryalconafter/178506 ; https://t.me/dva_majors/49343 ; https://t.me/milinfolive/128032 ; https://t.me/vysokygovorit/16856 ; https://t.me/rybar/62638 ; https://t.me/wargonzo/21490 ; https://t.me/dva_majors/49344

[29] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-may-4-2024 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-june-22-2024 ; https://x.com/OSINTua/status/1803094339687514293

[30] https://t.me/rybar/62633; https://t.me/bayraktar1070/2553

[31] https://t.me/rybar/62638 ; https://t.me/motopatriot/25982; https://t.me/voenkorKotenok/58107 ; https://t.me/warhistoryalconafter/178506 ; https://t.me/dva_majors/49343 ; https://t.me/milinfolive/128032 ; https://t.me/NgP_raZVedka/18596 ; https://t.me/notes_veterans/18696 ; https://t.me/iamsniper/6218 ; https://t.me/dva_majors/49356 ; https://t.me/dva_majors/49333 ; https://t.me/dva_majors/49334

[32] https://www.understandingwar.org/sites/default/files/June%2016%2C%202024%2C%20Russian%20Offensive%20Campaign%20Assessment%20PDF.pdf

[33] https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/13689 ; https://t.me/mysiagin/30113; https://x.com/moklasen/status/1822309661996978361;

[34] https://t.me/rybar/62650

[35] https://t.me/RVvoenkor/74394 ; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/13670 ; https://t.me/RVvoenkor/74380 ; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/13689 ; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/13666 ; https://t.me/dva_majors/49328 ; https://t.me/motopatriot/26009

[36] https://t.me/lost_warinua/85846; https://x.com/moklasen/status/1822291975900450884;

[37] https://x.com/franfran2424/status/1822046042109468755; https://t.me/warriorofnorth/1972 ; https://x.com/markito0171/status/1822216130607378827; https://x.com/Nero_Express/status/1822245252121461222; https://x.com/klinger66/status/1822262989082288276

[38] https://x.com/EjShahid/status/1822199735244963997%20;%20https://t.me/dva_majors/49334 ; https://t.me/boris_rozhin/133079 ; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/13670 ; https://t.me/rybar/62650 ; https://t.me/rybar/62638

[39] https://t.me/readovkanews/84611; https://x.com/foosint/status/1822231293171548412; https://t.me/tass_agency/265524 ; https://t.me/kalashnikovnews/2421; https://x.com/klinger66/status/1822036131091034484; https://x.com/RALee85/status/1822026306520822231;

[40] https://t.me/dva_majors/49280 ; https://t.me/rybar/62650 ; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/13661 ; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/13668; https://t.me/zovshkiper/582 ; https://t.me/dva_majors/49329; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/13690 ; https://t.me/voenkorKotenok/58121

[41] https://t.me/rybar/62647 ; https://t.me/notes_veterans/18693 ; https://t.me/notes_veterans/18694 ; https://t.me/dva_majors/49355 ; https://t.me/motopatriot/25978; https://t.me/motopatriot/25980 ; https://t.me/motopatriot/25983 ; https://t.me/boris_rozhin/133083 ; https://t.me/wargonzo/21488

[42] https://t.me/mod_russia/41990

[43] https://t.me/epoddubny/20688; https://x.com/giK1893/status/1822217091262423316; https://x.com/giK1893/status/1822217087856652543

[44] https://x.com/Osinttechnical/status/1822230821379444864

[45] https://t.me/rybar/62638 ; https://t.me/motopatriot/25998

[46] https://okno dot group/srochniki-granica/; https://www.change dot org/p/%D0%BC%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%B5%D1%80%D0%B8-%D1%81%D1%80%D0%BE%D1%87%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%B2-%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%B7%D1%8B%D0%B2%D0%B0-2023-2024-%D0%B3-%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%BE%D1%81%D0%B8%D0%BC-%D1%83%D0%B1%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%82%D1%8C-%D1%81%D1%80%D0%BE%D1%87%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%B2-%D0%B8%D0%B7-%D0%BA%D1%83%D1%80%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%B9-%D0%BE%D0%B1%D0%BB%D0%B0%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B8?utm_source=share_petition&utm_campaign=psf_combo_share_initial&utm_term=140c3b7ea57e409889c563878f194b2d&utm_medium=vk

[47] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-march-30-2023; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-june-24-2024

[48] https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/putin-says-will-not-use-conscript-soldiers-ukraine-2022-03-07/

[49] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-june-24-2024; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-october-28-2023

[50] https://t.me/mobilizationnews/19770

[51] https://t.me/poisk_in_ua/70625; https://t.me/poisk_in_ua/70626

[52] https://gur dot gov.ua/content/hur-vpoliuvav-maguroiu-cherhovoho-rosiiskoho-tuntsia-u-krymu.html

[53] https://x.com/Dmojavensis/status/1822177466896584857; https://x.com/DI_Ukraine/status/1822144410181673365; https://gur dot gov.ua/content/hur-vpoliuvav-maguroiu-cherhovoho-rosiiskoho-tuntsia-u-krymu.html ; https://twitter.com/666_mancer/status/1822168016974467377 ; https://twitter.com/666_mancer/status/1822223988350673155

 [54] https://x.com/sternenko/status/1822213554679742896; https://x.com/The_Lookout_N/status/1822219276486385877; https://suspilne dot media/810727-vms-zsu-ta-gur-vnoci-10-serpna-atakuvali-gazovu-vezu-u-cornomu-mori/; https://www.pravda dot com.ua/rus/news/2024/08/10/7469814/ ; https://t.me/bbcrussian/68901 ; https://suspilne dot media/810727-vms-zsu-ta-gur-vnoci-10-serpna-atakuvali-gazovu-vezu-u-cornomu-mori/

[55] https://www.pravda dot com.ua/rus/news/2024/08/10/7469814/ ; https://t.me/bbcrussian/68901 ; https://suspilne dot media/810727-vms-zsu-ta-gur-vnoci-10-serpna-atakuvali-gazovu-vezu-u-cornomu-mori/

[56] https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/iran-deliver-hundreds-ballistic-missiles-russia-soon-intel-sources-say-2024-08-09/

[57] https://understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-november-1; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-november-21-2023; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/iran-update-february-23-2024

[58] https://t.me/rybar/62647

[59] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0hp6ffb8cuB3BxnAA7BoHkTSPTsGesJHp2eajuiF4eZXebhf9VnaoJwGQK1zQinbAl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0qNaRdJPkJReSSgEkBWhDfXzS6ZivzyT5s1ggaj1cqs5B9v3mjf1iTxT4133UbxQxl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0v5AaYPrKMP2G2QvoggacAkdpCF7Z4puY6keHLbAfKvtUYp2gbaajJKXvS5fzPvGil; https://t.me/rybar/62647

[60] https://t.me/otukharkiv/699

[61] https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=824848103090531; https://x.com/blinzka/status/1822249166396879078; https://x.com/blinzka/status/1822249169819496931

[62] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0hp6ffb8cuB3BxnAA7BoHkTSPTsGesJHp2eajuiF4eZXebhf9VnaoJwGQK1zQinbAl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0qNaRdJPkJReSSgEkBWhDfXzS6ZivzyT5s1ggaj1cqs5B9v3mjf1iTxT4133UbxQxl ; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0v5AaYPrKMP2G2QvoggacAkdpCF7Z4puY6keHLbAfKvtUYp2gbaajJKXvS5fzPvGil

[63] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0hp6ffb8cuB3BxnAA7BoHkTSPTsGesJHp2eajuiF4eZXebhf9VnaoJwGQK1zQinbAl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0qNaRdJPkJReSSgEkBWhDfXzS6ZivzyT5s1ggaj1cqs5B9v3mjf1iTxT4133UbxQxl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0v5AaYPrKMP2G2QvoggacAkdpCF7Z4puY6keHLbAfKvtUYp2gbaajJKXvS5fzPvGil

[64] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0hp6ffb8cuB3BxnAA7BoHkTSPTsGesJHp2eajuiF4eZXebhf9VnaoJwGQK1zQinbAl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0qNaRdJPkJReSSgEkBWhDfXzS6ZivzyT5s1ggaj1cqs5B9v3mjf1iTxT4133UbxQxl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0v5AaYPrKMP2G2QvoggacAkdpCF7Z4puY6keHLbAfKvtUYp2gbaajJKXvS5fzPvGil

[65] https://t.me/rybar/62624

[66] https://t.me/boris_rozhin/133011

[67] https://t.me/creamy_caprice/6319; https://t.me/REVo28omBr/74; https://t.me/rybar/62624

[68] https://t.me/rybar/62624; https://t.me/z_arhiv/27579; https://t.me/motopatriot/25963

[69] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0hp6ffb8cuB3BxnAA7BoHkTSPTsGesJHp2eajuiF4eZXebhf9VnaoJwGQK1zQinbAl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0qNaRdJPkJReSSgEkBWhDfXzS6ZivzyT5s1ggaj1cqs5B9v3mjf1iTxT4133UbxQxl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0v5AaYPrKMP2G2QvoggacAkdpCF7Z4puY6keHLbAfKvtUYp2gbaajJKXvS5fzPvGil

[70] https://t.me/wargonzo/21484

[71] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-june-25-2024

[72] https://t.me/wargonzo/21482

[73] https://t.me/RVvoenkor/74389 ; https://t.me/boris_rozhin/132986; https://x.com/franfran2424/status/1822051147743395874; https://t.me/RVvoenkor/74389; https://x.com/creamy_caprice/status/1822001811210834312; https://x.com/WarVehicle/status/1822061307442397284; https://t.me/creamy_caprice/6313

[74] https://t.me/z_arhiv/27581; https://t.me/z_arhiv/27585; https://t.me/motopatriot/25976;

[75] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0hp6ffb8cuB3BxnAA7BoHkTSPTsGesJHp2eajuiF4eZXebhf9VnaoJwGQK1zQinbAl ; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0qNaRdJPkJReSSgEkBWhDfXzS6ZivzyT5s1ggaj1cqs5B9v3mjf1iTxT4133UbxQxl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0v5AaYPrKMP2G2QvoggacAkdpCF7Z4puY6keHLbAfKvtUYp2gbaajJKXvS5fzPvGil

[76] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0qNaRdJPkJReSSgEkBWhDfXzS6ZivzyT5s1ggaj1cqs5B9v3mjf1iTxT4133UbxQxl

[77] https://t.me/motopatriot/26004

[78] https://t.me/creamy_caprice/6320; https://t.me/Khortytsky_wind/880; https://t.me/creamy_caprice/6325; https://t.me/odshbr79/283; https://x.com/klinger66/status/1822298096874762393; https://t [dot] me/BULAVA72b/160; https://x.com/lost_warinua/status/1822258308117418342

[79] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0hp6ffb8cuB3BxnAA7BoHkTSPTsGesJHp2eajuiF4eZXebhf9VnaoJwGQK1zQinbAl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0v5AaYPrKMP2G2QvoggacAkdpCF7Z4puY6keHLbAfKvtUYp2gbaajJKXvS5fzPvGil; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0qNaRdJPkJReSSgEkBWhDfXzS6ZivzyT5s1ggaj1cqs5B9v3mjf1iTxT4133UbxQxl

[80] https://t.me/voin_dv/10195

[81] https://t.me/voin_dv/10194

[82]https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0qNaRdJPkJReSSgEkBWhDfXzS6ZivzyT5s1ggaj1cqs5B9v3mjf1iTxT4133UbxQxl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0v5AaYPrKMP2G2QvoggacAkdpCF7Z4puY6keHLbAfKvtUYp2gbaajJKXvS5fzPvGil

[83] https://t.me/voin_dv/10200

[84]https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0hp6ffb8cuB3BxnAA7BoHkTSPTsGesJHp2eajuiF4eZXebhf9VnaoJwGQK1zQinbAl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0qNaRdJPkJReSSgEkBWhDfXzS6ZivzyT5s1ggaj1cqs5B9v3mjf1iTxT4133UbxQxl

[85] https://t.me/rusich_army/16386

[86] https://t.me/SALDO_VGA/3986

https://armyinform dot com.ua/2024/08/10/u-kramatorsku-vorog-vluchyv-raketoyu-po-obyektu-krytychnoyi-infrastruktury/; https://t.me/VadymFilashkin/3705 ; https://suspilne dot media/donbas/810461-rosijska-armia-zranku-obstrilala-kramatorsk/

[87] https://armyinform

dot com.ua/2024/08/10/u-kramatorsku-vorog-vluchyv-raketoyu-po-obyektu-krytychnoyi-infrastruktury/;

https://t.me/VadymFilashkin/3705 ; https://suspilne dot media/donbas/810461-rosijska-armia-zranku-obstrilala-kramatorsk/

[88] https://t.me/notes_veterans/18683

[89] https://t.me/milinfolive/128027; https://iz dot ru/1740783/2024-08-10/oak-peredala-minoborony-novye-su-30sm2; https://tass dot ru/armiya-i-opk/21385327

[90] https://t.me/milinfolive/128027

[91] https://t.me/voenkorKotenok/58120; https://t.me/rusich_army/16408 ; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/13695; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/13697

[92] https://www.opcw.org/chemical-weapons-convention/annexes/annex-chemicals/annex-chemicals ; https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Hexachloroethane

[93] https://www.facebook.com/KSP.ZSU/posts/pfbid02PRzFpgsStJVtNL3fTxMxRALKrz7QccU5cK7hP9AhUCqiD8Pqhi5aPqFP8ww6hRMRl; https://armyinform dot com.ua/2024/08/09/zrostannya-dynamiky-vorozhyh-himichnyh-atak-fiksuyut-v-sylah-oborony/

[94] https://www.aa.com dot tr/en/europe/serbian-president-said-russian-intelligence-warned-him-about-preparations-for-coup/3300023 ; https://t.me/tass_agency/265445

[95] https://t.me/svobodnieslova/5425; https://t.me/idelrealii/36927

[96] https://isw.pub/UkrWar071224

[97] https://t.me/modmilby/40958; https://t.me/pul_1/13301; https://t.me/modmilby/40959; https://t.me/modmilby/40960; https://t.me/modmilby/40961; https://t.me/belta_telegramm/263068; https://t.me/belta_telegramm/263060

[98] https://t.me/modmilby/40965; https://t.me/modmilby/40966 ; https://t.me/tass_agency/265522

[99] https://t.me/belarusian_silovik/38951 ; https://t.me/rybar/62644

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An Overview of the ‘Why University of Michigan’ Essay

This article was written based on the information and opinions presented by Robert Crystal in a CollegeVine livestream. You can watch the full livestream for more info.

What’s Covered

• What Is the “Why University of Michigan” Essay?
• What Is the Prompt Asking?
• What to Write about in Your “Why Michigan” Essay
• How Culture Factors into Your “Why Michigan” Essay
• How Long Should Your “Why Michigan” Essay Be?

What Is the ‘Why University of Michigan’ Essay?

The University of Michigan requires all applicants to submit supplemental essays . The prompt for the University of Michigan’s first supplemental essay is:  

“Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate college or school (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying to the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests?” (100-550 words) 

This essay is one of the most common prompt archetypes: the “Why This College ” essay. The goal of this prompt is for admissions officers to gauge your interest in the school, why you want to attend, and how you would contribute to the university as well as ensure you have done your research on the school. 

What Is the Prompt Asking? 

This prompt contains two significant questions that you need to be prepared to answer. At a more general level, the admissions officers want to know why you like this specific program at the University of Michigan. More specifically, they are curious why the program is a good fit for you personally and academically, based on your prior experiences and future goals. 

What To Write about in Your ‘Why Michigan’ Essay

Before writing, spend some time thinking critically about how the college can support your interests and how the curriculum would support both your academic and professional goals. To come up with specific examples, browsing the college or school’s website can be helpful. Finding professors you would be interested in working with and courses that appeal to you is a good place to start, as well. 

You can also research programs within the department that interest you and whether they have any initiatives, events, or workshops that other universities do not. These are good to reference in your essay, particularly if they are unique to the University of Michigan. 

How Culture Should Factor Into Your ‘Why Michigan’ Essay

Although it may not be obvious to write about, department culture should be referenced in your “Why Michigan” essay. You want to make it clear to the admissions reader why you want to be a part of the department’s community. 

From an admissions standpoint, the university wants students who will be engaged and embedded in the campus community. That goes beyond academics, so your essay should too. 

How Long Should Your ‘Why Michigan’ Essay Be? 

The word count for this essay is 100 to 550 words, which is a much larger range than is normally listed for supplemental essays. 

If you submit a 100-word response, readers are going to assume that you are doing the bare minimum and do not have much to say about the school. That would be very detrimental to your application, especially in a “Why This College” essay. Colleges will assume that is the sort of student and community member you are, and there are probably other applicants they would choose to have on their campus instead. 

As such, you need to use the whole word count to go into detail about the program you are applying to and how that can support your goals. You are the main character in all these essays, so you need to remember to center yourself and use the full 550 words to do so in a compelling way.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

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Common questions, essay questions.

University of Michigan Questions

• Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it.  (Required for all applicants)
• Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests?  (Required for all applicants)

The Common Application Personal Essay

First-year Applicants:

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don't feel obligated to do so. (The application won't accept a response shorter than 250 words.)

• Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
• The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
• Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
• Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
• Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
• Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
• Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Additional Question for Transfer Applicants:

• Please provide a statement that addresses your reasons for transferring and the objectives you hope to achieve.

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What to Know About Ukraine’s Cross-Border Assault Into Russia

The incursion caught Russia by surprise and signified a shift in tactics for Kyiv after more than two years of war with Russia.

• Share full article

By Andrew E. Kramer Constant Méheut Kim Barker Anton Troianovski and Cassandra Vinograd

Ukraine pressed ahead with its offensive inside Russian territory on Sunday , pushing toward more villages and towns nearly two weeks into the first significant foreign incursion in Russia since World War II.

But even as the Ukrainian army was advancing in Russia’s western Kursk region, its troops were steadily losing ground on their own territory. The Russian military is now about eight miles from the town of Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine, according to open-source battlefield maps . The capture of Pokrovsk, a Ukrainian stronghold, would bring Moscow one step closer to its long-held goal of capturing the entire Donetsk region.

That underscored the gamble Ukraine’s army took when it crossed into Russia: throwing its forces into a daring offensive that risked weakening its own positions on the eastern front.

Whether that strategy will prove advantageous remains to be seen, analysts say.

On the political front, the offensive has already had some success: Ukraine’s rapid advance has embarrassed the Kremlin and has altered the narrative of a war in which Kyiv’s forces had been on the back foot for months.

Here’s what to know about Ukraine’s cross-border operation, which President Biden said last week was creating a “real dilemma” for the Russian government.

What happened?

Ukrainian troops and armored vehicles stormed into the Kursk region of western Russia on Aug. 6 , swiftly pushing through Russian defenses and capturing several villages.

Held by Ukraine

as of Aug. 13

Sverdlikovo

Sievierodonetsk

Area controlled

Zaporizhzhia

Sea of Azov

Ukrainian incursion

Source: Institute for the Study of War with American Enterprise Institute’s Critical Threats Project

By Veronica Penney

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