Hobbies and Supplamental Material on the Common App?

Applying to College
1

Hey guys, I had a quick question about sending supplemental material on the Common App. I understand that some artists / musicians will send supplemental material as it pertains to their interests / hobbies. My question is, if one of my hobbies happens to be building computers would it be possible or helpful to send a picture of on that I have built? I have spent a considerable amount of time recently on what is probably IMO one of the most thought out / intricate computers I have built. Also, is this (or any) hobby something I would even mention in my app (assuming HYPSM caliber schools). During several of the Information sessions I attended it sounded as though Admissions Officers also liked seeing hobbies / interests along with structured clubs and activities. Thanks for the help!

As far as hobbies- I am referring to any activity where there is no formal club or structured event / competition (i.e. learning several programming languages or building electronics…)

2

If you send the material, make sure it’s something they can see clearly or understand. I think hobbies are fine to highlight. Colleges want you to give them an idea of who you are. If you are passionate about and spend a lot of time doing something, it’s good to consider telling them.

3

bump

4

You can definitely include it in your Common App! Also, MIT has something called a “Maker Portfolio” - you could probably submit your computer under this.

5

You can definitely mention the hobby and include a clear-to-understand picture. You can mention other hobbies too, it doesn’t have to be a club or anything like that!