History EC as Aspiring Engineering Major

Pre-College Issues High School Life
1

Hi everyone,

So this year, I (somehow) managed to advance to the national level in a history competition, the first in my school for 10 or so years. However, I am planning on majoring in some sort of engineering. I’ve been brainstorming college app essay ideas and this would be a great example of my dedication and perseverance and such, but to be honest, history is really not what I’m interested in pursuing in the future. I learned a lot from the experience, and I would say I’m fairly interested in history, but really, I highly doubt I will continue this interest in college and beyond.

So my question is, should I even stress this accomplishment in my college apps? I’m proud of it, and besides, most of my other ECs are not that notable (this history award is probably the most notable one I have), so I want to, but I don’t want to be perceived as undecided or seem like I’m taking advantage of that achievement to boost my apps.

Thanks in advance

2

Do not hide your accomplishments. Good engineers and scientists can also love history. In fact, many of your best universities are looking for students with a range of interests. Technology has the world by the tail and has for some time. What does history have to say about that? The real world is interdisciplinary.

A good memory and an awareness of history is an asset. See https://www.wpi.edu/student-experience/community/voices/alli-r

3

@retiredfarmer Great link! And you’re right about history being interwoven with STEM in general. I will definitely go into depth about this history competition and try to maybe connect it to my interests and how it’s shaped my view of the world (because it really has). Thanks!