<p>So I'm interested in science (bio or chem) and math. Should I just focus on one in my essay? I also have to talk about how I'm going to pursue my interest at X school. So would talking about both be too much, especially with a very short word limit?</p>
<p>Should probably stick with one. These essays don’t mean all that much to them, they just want to see how well you can convey your passion and interest in academics. The actual subject you pick is less important. You may be able to tie a secondary interest in briefly (probably talk about sciences and briefly mention mathematics).</p>
<p>If you have a Jan 1 deadline, you better get on your horse. It’s rather late in the game to be wondering about essay topics.</p>
<p>My deadline’s a little later and I’ve finished everything else so I’m not in too much of a rush. (:</p>
<p>And thank you Pancaked!</p>
<p>Which essay are you referring to? There is the common app essay (the longer one), the short essay on an activity for the common app, and any specific essays required for a given college (often a “Why X” essay).</p>
<p>The colleges do not necessarily expect you to write on your interest in your proposed major in the common app essay (although many students touch on it). For your activities one, I usually say to pick the activity you are most passionate about (it usually shows anyway in your accomplishments and time spent). Then in the “Why X”, you may have a chance to talk about your major preference IF there is some specific research or instruments/labs or something you think are special at that college.</p>
<p>Bio and Chem are offered at pretty much all colleges, so it is hard to “pop” as an applicant by focusing your applications on your desire to major in those things. And I personally think it can be hard to convince a school that they are “special” to you in that area because all colleges offer those majors.</p>