Hey guys, I’m planning on applying to SEAS for 2020- most likely ChemE. One of the common app essays this year is “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.”
Would it be bad if I talked about my passion for music for this essay? I know that has nothing to do with engineering, but I thought maybe I could relate it somehow or something. I’ve been taking classical voice lessons since 4th grade, Allstate chorus, etc. would it be bad to talk about my passion for singing/music and maybe relate it to how Columbia SEAS would give me an opportunity to further my passion?
Thanks for any input all.
The question is how you gonna relate music to SEAS. If you can, then the answer should be self-explanatory
It’s not about relating music to SEAS, it’s about talking about your passion that is a big part of your life and makes you who you are, so absolutely talk about your music career and mention how your experience can further your ability and/or success in SEAS. Good luck!
I don’t think it would be a bad idea at all to talk about your passion for music. But the message of the essay should go beyond simply saying “I am passionate about music” - how has music impacted your thinking? Can you think of a time where, say, music helped you figure out a math or engineering program? But of course colleges will look for people who are passionate about their given subject area - so although being skilled in music may help you, I think they’d question why you were applying to SEAS instead of CC if music is your primary passion.
FYI, Columbia’s Computer Music Center has historically been pretty important in electronic music - so that’s already one way Columbia might allow you to merge your interests in engineering and music. Check out some of what they do on their website. You are definitely able to take music classes while enrolled in SEAS. That’s not to mention the numerous opportunities to explore music in NY and the surrounding conservatories, which often put on free recitals and concerts. This is more food for the “why Columbia” essay you’ll undoubtedly encounter, though.