Arch Majors: Prospective Student Portfolio Questions

Colleges and Universities A-Z Cornell University
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<p>hey guys, i have some questions and i’d appreciate the help. here are my questions (for undergrad):</p>

<li><p>Is it okay to have a strong theme throughout the portfolio? I would have different types of medium and styles and subjects, but the overarching message would be the same in all pieces. Basically, I would be trying to convey the same message, but have very varied pieces. Or do colleges (Cornell specifically) want to see pieces about different things? </p></li>
<li><p>Is it okay if the work is not architecture-related at all? I know this has been discussed thoroughly, but my work would be shown as if I’m applying to art school because we have no opportunities at my school to take arch courses. Some people have said it’s good if you show sketches of buildings? </p></li>
<li><p>I’ve heard different things about Cornell Arch Admissions. I’ve read that they look at 1/3 academics, 1/3 interview, and 1/3 portfolio. I’ve also read that they look at you stats (GPA, SAT) and assign you a number from 1-5 and that’s how many times your portfolio gets looked at so it’s the portfolio that basically makes the decision (again, i know it’s an over-discussed topic). I just wanted to know if anyone has up to date information on the admissions process for cornell arch. </p></li>
<li><p>Would it be weird if I didn’t include work from my art classes? I take IBHL Art which is the highest level of art offered at my school and I will probably show one or two pieces, but do people usually create entirely new pieces for their portfolio? I’m asking this because I think Cornell asks you whether the pieces were done in class or outside of class. </p></li>
<li><p>I live in Asia and I won’t be able to make the interview in fall, so I will be answering the essay questions. Is this a disadvantage? I feel like having an interview and being able to meet someone in person, and having to answer questions on the spot as well, is looked at as a better indicator than essay questions. Also, are there any disadvantages/advantages to being an international student (sort of, I’m an American citizen living abroad)?</p></li>
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<p>Thank you so much in advance! The first question is the one bothering me most. I will be visiting Cornell later in the summer, but I need to get started now so your answers are appreciated!</p>

2

<ol>
<li><p>that is fine. as long as each piece has a little description about it, its ok. in your first page of your portfolio, the “meet the artist” page (even if the school doesnt require it, i suggest you do it…just like a 1 page description of yourself) you should describe the theme you are trying to portray so the reviewers know exactly what you are trying to do.</p></li>
<li><p>YES YES YES!!! they do NOT want to see any drafting at all. you dont even need to have any architecture related pictures at all…although it could be a good idea. i included a couple of pictures of the washington monuments on the mall, but that was also a part of my senior project. if you can include some good sketches or something that may be able to tie in to your theme, i would try. but again, it isnt required.</p></li>
<li><p>the portfolio and interview is basically the deciding factor. i dont know how the gpa/sats are ranked, but i do know that there are people who have amazing portfolios and okay stats who still got into the school</p></li>
<li><p>no its not. i took private art lessons and got all of my portfolio work from that. if i compare my work from school (just 2 years of studio art)…wow big difference. even though my school projects were okay, its hard to make a horrible assignment look good lol</p></li>
<li><p>i dont think its a disadvantage.</p></li>
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<p>good luck! and dont rush through your portfolio! take your time to make it look as good as possible :]</p>

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<p>thank you so much!
btw, should i show more sketches in my portfolio?
i mostly do paintings with lots of color and emotion, but a lot of the portfolio’s belonging to admitted students that i’ve seen include basically sketches in black & white and minimal amounts of color or painting.</p>

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<p>anyone else?</p>