Hey guys, I was wondering what y’all thought about the “List all of the books you have read in the last 12 months" option for the Harvard supplement.
Would a list of books truly suffice to convey who I am? I think in some cases it could work brilliantly, but I’m an avid fiction reader - I rarely read non-fiction (I really should though I know)
Would listing mostly fiction books be alright? I have a few non-fiction books I was really interested in but they were from longer than 12 months ago, should I include those?
Did anyone else choose this option for the supplement? 
Also, do you think have a more eclectic taste is better than a more focused one?
Because although I mainly read fiction, they range from historical, cultural, classics, mystery, etc …
I don’t know if this option is meant more for those who have a defined interest, like they read predominantly science/math related books 
I’d really appreciate any input or advice,
Thanks in advance 
Hey @crisnyal,
Firstly, you should stop worrying about what the admissions staff are going to deduce from the books,
Just put down books you truly enjoyed reading and write a line or two about what you learnt/enjoyed in the book.
That’ll suffice, you don’t need to show them you’re smart reading bigass science and math books, thousands of applicants already do that and they’re tired of it. Just give them what you honestly like and I’m sure they’ll appreciate it.
This is just my opinion though, and just like you I am also a senior that will be applying in the next few days, so take my words with a grain of salt.
Good luck!
Three words: You’re overthinking it.
Harvard just wants to see what you’re interested in! They want to gather a holistic view of your personality through your application, which is as close as you’ll get to meeting the admissions officer considering you. Do whatever feels right to you; I assure you that choosing Tolstoy over Adiche in your list will not make-or-break your chance.
Okay, thank you for the advice guys, and good luck to you too tyronium!
Also, would just sending a list be sufficient? Or would short descriptions accompanying the list make for a stronger application?
@chrisnyal Short descriptions would let them see why you liked the book, revealing more of your personality. So I vote for a short description with the name.