Mentioning another student

MiT’s second short essay: “Although you may not yet know what you want to major in, which department or program at MIT appeals to you and why? (100 words or fewer)”

Someone who I consider very influential in my life, who I played multiple sports with and learned from currently attends MiT. Would it be inappropriate to mention them? I wouldn’t mention their name or anything more specific than that they’ve published research in the department that most appeals to me, that I would take advantage of the opportunity to learn from peers like them, etc.

Thoughts?

I don’t think this is inappropriate by itself, but you run a risk that AOs will think you were influenced by this person and not thinking carefully about your own goals when applying to MIT. Obviously any MIT department will have awesome peers.

Thanks! The more I consider it, the more I agree that 100 words doesn’t leave enough room for two people’s aspirations. Maybe it’ll come up during an interview.

I would get straight to it because 100 words it not a lot

Why would it be about a person. No, don’t mention anybody. Just answer the question.