<p>Two schools that I am applying to offer an optional arts supplement to help enhance each application. This could be creative writing, music, blogs, art pieces, or dance videos. I am no artist, but I do play the sax and I figure skate. I also love to write. At the same time, I have not prepared anything to submit nor have I planned anything so far. I could throw together a recording of me playing the saxophone or a video of me skating, but do you think this is necessary? My grades and scores are solid, and I am involved in ecs, but I'm worried that I'll be compared with someone who has the same qualifications as I but also turned in a portfolio. I'd rather not submit one just it case it doesn't turn out well, but does not submitting one affect my chances at all? BTW these are small LACs.</p>
<p>My understanding is that you don’t submit an arts supplement unless you are super talented and want that talent evaluated in the context of others who are highly talented in the same field. Also, if you aren’t planning to major in the field (music in your case) I have been told that you shouldn’t submit. Just make sure those ECs are highlighted and emphasized in your application, especially if they have been long term ECs that you have gotten a lot out of over the years.</p>