Harvard Application Supplementary Materials

Colleges and Universities A-Z Harvard University
1

<p>I play an instrument and would like to submit a CD of my repertoire. The admissions site states that "Such materials may be submitted, but you should do so only if you have unusual talent. Students with truly exceptional talents or achievements may send music recordings, slides of artwork, or selected samples of academic work for the consideration of the Admissions Committee."</p>

<p>Harvard</a> College Admissions § Applying: Supplemental Application Materials</p>

<p>What does "unusual talent" mean? I think I'm pretty darn good at my instrument, but i do not have an extensive performance resume (won awards here and there at regional competitions). What is the purpose of the supplementary material? Should I only send a CD if I'm good enough to the point where Harvard will beg me to enroll? I want to send a CD because I feel that the musical side of me (which is significant to my identity) is going to be overlooked without it (I don't have much to write about it, and I'm not sure if I can incorporate it into an essay).</p>

<p>Thanks!</p>

2

<p>Your teacher can probably tell you if it’s a good idea or not. In general though, I think it would be obvious to a person if s/he is unusually talented. Unless the person is used to being unnecessarily modest.</p>

3

<p>I sent supplements because my teachers encouraged me to. I don’t have unusual talent by any stretch of the imagination, but I figured it wouldn’t hurt. The worst they can do is not listen to them.</p>