Columbia supplement list of books and other medias: focused on my major or general character?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Columbia University
1

Hi everyone. I have basically decided to ED Columbia, and I am currently filling out the CommonApp.

Just a question. Columbia asks for list of books and other forms of media that one enjoys. When I am completing this section, should my list be more focused on my major or my general characters? I am applying to psychology and neuroscience, so should I list a bunch of professional-looking non-fiction, or should I list some novels that I truly enjoyed? On one hand, the non-fictions show my interest in chosen major; on the other hand, the novels or other books that I read can truly show my characters and personality to some extent.

So, which genre should I concentrate on?

Any reply is appreciated! Thanks in advance!

2

Just answer truthfully. Don’t try to “game” the questions to fit your intended major.

3

They are looking for signs of personality (I always thought if I were an admissions officer, I’d want to hear about something new to me that sounds interesting to check out). But personality can show in non-fiction titles, too.

4

To be honest, I don’t think there is any “wrong” answer to this question, unless perhaps you write that you spend all of your extra cash on cheap pornography.

It is not uncommon for Columbia students to swap books among their friends, as many students love reading, and learning about everything, and having discussions about a wide variety of topics.