<p>I want to study theater, which isn't a program Stanford is really known for. It's a good department that has produced very solid grads, but I don't think there are very many people who want to go to Stanford for theater. It seems like most of the theater kids are carried away with the "typical" drama schools.</p>
<p>Does a student have a better chance to get in if they indicate that they're planning to study theater?</p>
<p>Maybe... and that's a big maybe. Stanford's adcom might be suspicious that you'll change majors after they let you in easy for theater (because it's been done so many times before). So chances are, they won't let you in any easier</p>
<p>Well, I doubt they'll think I'm changing majors because they'll see I'm also applying to the typical theater schools (Michigan, BU, CCM, CMU, NYU, etc.) and I have a crapload of theater leadership and experience, portfolios, resumes, etc..</p>
<p>It should be fairly obvious I plan to study theater.</p>
<p>Officially, adcoms say that intended majors have no effect on admission decisions. However, i believe if you provide enough evidence of your interest in theater (such as the leadership, experience, and portfolios that you have) you might increase your chances, assuming Stanford is in need of theater majors.</p>
<p>That's what I was hoping for.</p>
<p>The problem is that Stanford doesn't like additional papers (seperate from the application) and so it'd be hard to include alot of information, as the most basic summary of my involvement in theater is a 2 page resume.</p>
<p>I agree that your theatre interest should be an excellent hook given that you can back it up with your ECs, resume, school experience etc. My D considered Stanford but did not apply because she decided she wanted a more specific, dedicated theatre program. Also, your theatre background can provide great material for an essay that could really stand out from the others.</p>
<p>However I remember when looking over Stanford's application that they wanted some kind of separate submission of additional materials for students in the arts, so you could send your resume and portfolio. It was a separate part of the application and I remember they stressed it was to be used for distinct talents, not for the typical broad-based applicant. You might want to check to see if they still mention that option.</p>
<p>Found it. Click on the "freshman" link following where it says "Fine & Performing Arts Submissions"
<a href="http://www.stanford.edu/dept/uga/applying/extras/1_2b3_supplementary.html%5B/url%5D">http://www.stanford.edu/dept/uga/applying/extras/1_2b3_supplementary.html</a></p>
<p>If you have some significant theatre awards or achievements, this seems like it would certainly help.</p>