I started writing my 'statement of purpose' for my application to the University of Michigan today. I filled out the first few sections of the application, which were inane - I don't know, nor should anyone care, what academic awards, honors, etc. I have received. On the other hand, were I coming in straight from college, they would be a great way to show I was a good guy, even if I had no resumé to speak of. So I'll forgive them. I've also got my list of people to write me letter of recommendation, which is quite honestly the bane of my existence. I hate asking people to waste their time writing platitudes about me. But, the colleges love it, for reasons that are beyond me.