<p>I'm planning on applying early decision to Cornell this Fall. I have a good stack of grades, curriculum rigor, and extracurricular activities, but nothing specifically engineering...This fall I plan on taking an Into To Engineering class at a local college, job shadowing at a well-known chemical research facility, and there's a chance I'll be able to intern at a lithium-battery recycling factory. In the winter, I'll be taking a 200 level Electrical Fundamentals engineering course at the local college as well.</p>
<p>What I would like your input on is if that would all be too little too late or not? I know it would help my application but would it add any serious punch?</p>
<p>At my school, a bunch of the engineering oriented kids participate in robotics, volunteer to do some programming, etc. The internships and college classes would probably help you as well. I’m pretty sure that having activities that correspond to your proposed major would help at least a little.</p>
<p>My S went to boarding school and really didn’t have any activities that reflected his engineering interest - he played football, lacrosse, and taught kids from our inner city over the summer. His academics clearly reflected a stronger aptitude towards math and science. His essay talked about his “interest in engineering” and he also mentioned some math projects in high school that reflected that. </p>
<p>This isn’t about applying to a first job - it’s about a high school kid applying to college. Cornell wants to see a passion for something and they also want kids who have looked beyond themselves. Most candidates to engineering look the same in terms of grades and test scores. What makes you stand out? What makes you special as an individual? Write a good, thoughtful essay and reveal what makes you tick.</p>
<p>Good response Swimmer, we were also told that our D’s EC’s should speak to her interest in her major…they didn’t, but she was still admitted. Demonstrating excellence & commitment in your EC’s are more important than what they actually are.</p>