<p>Hi,
So I have extensive experience in policy research. I've done policy research with neighboring colleges, thinktanks, etc. I also have a lot of research that I've done before for organizations such as my regional democratic organization. These reports are not published, but represent a substantial amount of research. How should I spin this in my application? I feel like adcoms will just scoff if I put "carbon-tax research" if it wasn't published or somehow bonafied.</p>
<p>My D was told to use the EC short answer box to explain things like this which are not easily understood. She did exactly that, rather than expanding on her most time consuming one, which was her sport and everyone knows what it is.</p>
<p>If you have done research with professors/think tank gurus, one of them might write a supplemental recommendation for you. Also, if any of your unpublished research reports are truly extraordinary – like, if the professor said “I would be impressed if I got this work from a graduate student” – you might submit an example of your work. Do not do this if the work was just superb high school work, only if it was way, way beyond high school level.</p>
<p>Yes, I agree with Hanna. Also, many colleges allow you to submit “supplementary materials,” which are not required but are used to show talents or skills that you have pursued. These are usually art portfolios, music, etc. But your research could qualify as unique supplementary material. I would call up the admissions offices of some of your colleges and simply ask them. This is another piece of advice that I would give to high schoolers: never be hesitant to call colleges directly. The people working there are often very nice, straightforward, and helpful. Get advice straight from the source!</p>