<p>So is this the part where the research paper comes in?
If I indicate I did some independent research, do I mention it here? If yes, how do I submit my research paper? I read somewhere about a "student portal". How do I get to it?
Also, I have a very trivial experiment of mine that does not have really all that good data. Do you think it will be a good idea to submit this? Or will this somehow come to stab me in the back? (I googled it a bit and turns out, no one has ever thought of this. It's a really small thing, but if it could help me, I would send it.)
Did any people get into Caltech simply because of impressive application essays? Is the research thing REALLY REALLY important? (I heard it is)
I'm applying regular decision as an international student. (yeah, i know international students aren't given any special thought during the application process, but just wanted you to know)</p>
<p>I don’t believe the adcoms want the actual research paper. A recommendation from your mentor would be appropriate and an overview elsewhere in the application.</p>
<p>For summer activities… yes… put “I did (really cool) research with Dr. X at XYZ institution” during the summer of my junior year. What did you do your other summers?</p>
<p>Oh, I didn’t know that you had to have done research with a professor. I did my own independent research, with nothing but a few thermometers and stopwatches. It was a really trivial experiment, but I discovered something new which I hoped could work to my advantage. Can I not submit that? I have a experiment result table and everything.</p>
<p>Of course you can… The majority of techers have NOT done formal research, and the adcoms LOVE quirky thinking, and innovative approaches. Just tagging along with a prof and siphoning off their research is not all that impressive - an original idea with your own way of looking at things could well be the edge you want!</p>