<p>So I was recently offered an official visit to MIT and my mind has been racing since. I don't need to explain why I know MIT is a good school on these forums, I'm sure all of you know. But, the thing is, I've never been a "math and science" person. I have an average SAT score and an above average GPA--basically stats that would NEVER get me into MIT as a regular applicant. </p>
<p>I just wanted to know if MIT hosts opportunities for people who aren't focused in the math or science realms. I hear they have a good undergraduate business program...? Anyways, I just don't want to take a spot at MIT from someone that's actually passionate in the fields it's most strong in.</p>
<p>While it’s certainly possible to come to MIT and major in humanities (you’re quite right that our business program is very good and well known) keep in mind that all undergrads, regardless of major, are required to take one semester of chemistry, one semester of biology, two semesters of physics, and two semesters of calculus. Also, math and science sort of invade all corners of the school from a cultural point of view. If you think you might struggle through those requirements, and feel confused/frustrated/left out when your dormmates make math jokes, MIT might not be the place for you.</p>
<p>I don’t mean to discourage you from applying. But you should give it serious consideration. Depending on what you meant by your “not being a math and science person,” it’s possible that you would be quite unhappy at MIT.</p>
<p>If possible, I recommend you arrange an overnight stay with a current student. It’s a good way to get a feel for MIT (or any school, for that matter).</p>
<p>I totally agree with everything Laura is saying.</p>
<p>Keep in mind also that, regardless of any visiting/pre-application recruitment activities, MIT does not admit people who are not qualified to get through the General Institute Requirements. MIT doesn’t admit by major, so students who are planning to major in something outside science/engineering aren’t advantaged, and therefore you wouldn’t be unfairly taking a spot from someone who’s interested in a science or engineering major.</p>
<p>I’m not sure what you mean by saying your stats would never get you into MIT as a “regular” applicant, but there aren’t really any irregular applicants at MIT.</p>
<p>You need to be honest with yourself about one thing, though: Are you good at math but just don’t like it? or are you bad at it?</p>
<p>If the former, then yes, you could probably come to MIT and do fine. If the latter (i.e. you’re struggling with high-school level math), then MIT might not be the best fit.</p>
<p>^ I disagree. If you’re good at math but don’t like it, then MIT is not the place for you since many courses are mathematically intense you have to have a passion to get through that kinda stuff.
However, if you’re not so good at math but enjoy it, there are always help you can seek around MIT. But obviously you can’t be horrible at math (lower than 700 on Math II), or else you can’t handle the workload.</p>
<p>I was doing my economics homework one day and another student looked over my shoulder and asked if I was retaking a calculus class!!! </p>
<p>At MIT, math invades everything is an understatement. Most MIT students I’ve meet like and do well in math, so its no big deal. Would wonder if MIT is the right place for you if you don’t like math and science (as well as wonder how you would get accepted?).</p>
<p>While MIT has lightweight rowing, it sounds like Cornell or Dartmouth would be a better fit for you. I rowed lightweight at MIT in the 1980’s and the other commenters are right - Math is a pretty critical element of all of the courses. You will be very busy with rowing so find a school that you will be happy with the academics too.</p>
<p>Mollie, i bet you there are irregular applicants. </p>
<p>Mostly because i saw some pretty irregular students. Their lack of regular shapes would poise you to guess their gender, race or age. With a high p-value.</p>
<p>Asnwering the question, MIT is not terrible in terms of math. There are worse schools, for example harvey mudd or Caltech. But you do have to take two semesters of calculus.</p>
<p>If you took AP calculus you will do just fine. If you did not then go to OCW and see if you can understand 18.01 lectures after reading simmons calculus textbook.</p>
<p>I came in having a lot of trouble in Math - but I pulled it together, really studied, and I understand it a lot better now.</p>
<p>Also I guess that’s the point of college… So if you a willingness to learn you can make it through - it will be a bit rough - but you will be much better off for life. MIT is “Boot camp for your brain”</p>