So far, my application has been going well, but I face one question that I do not exactly understand. “What alternatives to transferring to Harvard are you considering?” Since this question does not ask me why I chose those alternatives, I only typed the name of the schools I am applying to other than Harvard. Should I state the reasons in addition to the names of the universities I am applying to? I really need help for this and appreciate if any of you guys can give me an answer because I am kind of stuck:/
The question is broadly stated. They probably want to know what you are going to do if Harvard rejects you. I think they do this to see what other schools you are applying to. But you may have other options as well: part-time job, internship, year abroad, etc.
They just want to see what other options you have.
In fact, your alternative plans (and the quality of your thinking about them) provide really valuable insight into your personality and your reasons for transferring. If you can’t write a cogent paragraph describing your plans if Harvard does not accept you – which of course is overwhelmingly likely, no matter how good a candidate you are – then you shouldn’t waste your time and money on your transfer application. Are you saying you need to transfer to Harvard because of a specific academic need? Your answer ought to show some significant thought, research, and realism about how you can meet that need elsewhere. Why should Harvard even consider giving you an ultra-scarce slot if you aren’t the kind of person who solves problems in a high-quality way?