Please evaluate my chances to JHU/Cornell (essays included)

Chance Me / Match Me!
1

<p>Asian Male
Prospective major: Engineering (Electrical, Computer, or Mechanical)
GPA: ~95 (4.0) Weighted (No class rank)
SAT I: 620V 780M (1400 total)
SAT II's: 690, 630, 620 >_<</p>

<p>EC's:
Spring Musicals (11th, 12th) (School productions take lots of commitment ~15 hours/wk)
Fall Plays (11th, 12th)
9th and 10th grade play (10th)
Symphony Orchestra (Violin)
Various Science clubs
Young Democrats
NHS
Summer work with food service
Current work at medical center as website programmer
Random awards here and there (nothing major)
Hobbies include computer stuff, music, rubik's cube, and some weird stuff that nobody else would think of doing</p>

<p>I have applied to JHU and Cornell under RD
Great teacher recs, great counselor rec</p>

<h2>Essays for JHU are below:</h2>

<p>Commonapp essay: Topic of my choice</p>

<p>Cradled between my hands lay a plastic cube with an array of clashing colors neatly imprinted on the plastic surface. For many years, adventurous souls have spent a few minutes of their lives twisting this chaotic jumbled puzzle only to become annoyed enough to leave it in their toy box to be forgotten forever. Known as the Rubik’s Cube, the master of all puzzles, it has evoked a countless number of frustrated buyers. This straightforward object appears simple to the eye, however, enigmatic to the mind.</p>

<p>A little more than a year ago, I remember picking up my sister’s unused Rubik’s Cube and timidly twisting and turning the contraption. Persistent and determined at the time, I decided I wouldn’t stop until I’d mastered the cube. From then on, I set aside a few minutes each day to accomplish my feat. However, the minutes turned into hours as I was dragged amidst a colorful struggle between my aching fingers and the muddled faces. Finally, weeks later, the intense war had subsided as I stared down at the perfectly uniformed entity that I had conquered. With my hands and eyes filled with euphoria, it brought about an immense satisfaction that I hadn’t felt in a long time.</p>

<p>For many weeks, this mild obsession continued as I slowly devised my own methodical method to “conquering the cube”. As I slowly mastered the Rubik’s Cube, I began holding timed trials to race against time and the cube itself. The battles became more intense as I would watch the jumbled whirlwind of colors arrange itself into perfect harmony in a matter of seconds. I still experience the same feeling of delight as I had during my first run.</p>

<p>As I impressed more of my friends, the cube was nothing more than a simple puzzle that demanded a bit of concentration and thought. I once feared that I’d been enslaved to this object forever, but as it turned out, it was nothing more than my underling.</p>

<p>One day after school, I was sitting at home thinking of new ways to optimize my skills. As I systematically flashed through my process, it occurred to me that the Rubik’s Cube was not just a mere brainteaser – it was a portable replica of my life and qualities as a person! Oddly enough, any way I thought, this inanimate object displayed character traits similar to mine. The individual colored faces of the cube resembled my feelings: red, blue, orange, green, yellow, and white analogous to anger, grief, frustration, bliss, gratitude, and indifference. Not only that, but the colors were arranged together in accord, symbolizing a perfect balance of emotion and tranquility much like the Chinese symbol of Ying/Yang – the cube was in a happy medium. When the cube was scrambled, however, it symbolized my times of confusion and disorder, namely occasional personal issues and frustration of meeting my own expectations in and out of the classroom. Though my life is usually in harmony, everyone experiences moments where they falter.</p>

<p>As I ponder through the process of solving the cube, the procedure itself has something to teach me as an important life’s lesson. The actual process of transforming the cube into its solved state is fairly challenging. Various twists and turns must be applied, and an inexperienced cubist is always unsure if it will yield desirable results. Very similar to the daily decisions that we make, these “twists” must be applied to the current situation and carefully thought out to lead to positive effects. As a cubist, one gains experience only through time and dedication, very much like how a person matures and is able to make responsible decisions based on his or her experiences in the past. Since life’s obstacles and the Rubik’s Cube must be solved systematically, the most difficult aspect to grasp is the tendency of a face or layer, which has already been solved, to undo itself from another spin. Unfortunately, this is very true in real life as well. Time management is very important to many of us, and it’s hard for me to find time for everything. Because of my busy schedule, I have to allocate my time wisely for more important things. In the end, although my social life may suffer, I gain an edge in schoolwork and other aspects. </p>

<p>My perception of the Rubik’s Cube has completely evolved. Although I will never forget the cube as a time consuming activity for rainy days or a mild obsession, there are more important aspects in life to be aware of. In a lot of cases, the Rubik’s Cube has reminded me of these important virtues. With 43 quintillion combinations, there is only one I will always strive for, both in this clever brainteaser, and most importantly, my life.</p>

2

<p>Supplement Prompt 1: If you had only $10 (or 11 EUR, or R$25, or Rs 490, etc.) to plan a day's adventure, where would you go, what would you do, and who would you take with you?</p>

<p>While walking through the halls on a normal day of school, it was impossible for me to overlook the amount of dull faces passing by. Welcome to Hershey, highly regarded as the most boring town in Central Pennsylvania by the student body. During my five years living in this little chocolate bubble, it’s easy to witness the lack of interaction we have with the outside world. So students complain about the lack of a social gathering place outside of school. However, a few of us know a small coffee shop cleverly secluded between a supermarket and a veterinarian center. To high school students, the Harbor House Café is the gathering place for long hours of study or relaxation amidst a cozy atmosphere.</p>

<p>One day after school, Andrew stopped me in the noisy halls and invited me to the Harbor House to listen to a live gig of his unnamed band. With my mind clouded in boredom and stress, I swiftly agreed and raced out to his car in the parking lot. Andrew, with his arms full of books and a guitar case, stumbled a few steps as he cautiously lifted the trunk only to fling all of his belongings inside. </p>

<p>The five-minute car ride was filled with mindless gossip of anything from past musical rehearsals to tomorrow’s Biology test. As we pulled up in the parking lot of the small, auburn colored building, I helped Andrew with his guitar case as we walked towards the entrance way. I took notice of the familiar blue sign that read “Harbor House” bolted on the front panel. As we approached the entrance, a couple swung open the door and a warm aroma of and espresso grazed by cheeks. I sprinted in and abruptly shut the door behind Andrew to shield the customers inside from the cold winter air. Inside, my body was immediately greeted by the rich atmosphere. Looking outside, the rest of Hershey was nothing more than a cold and savage world. </p>

<p>The inside of the café was no bigger than the first floor of my house. As I walked to the corner of the room to help Andrew connect his amp, I looked around at the five or six people quietly conversing over cups of coffee. The room had such a relaxing atmosphere. The delightful peach colored walls were covered with various paintings of fruit baskets and portraits. There was a red and blue rug in the center of the room accompanied by a couch to give it a nice at-home feel. Along the side of the room was a neat arrangement of cushioned stools with a Macintosh computer in the far corner open to public use. There was even a fireplace with a roaring flame, comforting the freezing guests as they scrambled for warmth.</p>

<h2>After the initial setup and sound check, I was greeted by the additional two members of Andrew’s band, Robert and Max, who played the drums and electric bass, respectively. While they were warming up, I plopped myself on the tan and leather couch and admired the tranquility of the scene. In a matter of minutes, Andrew’s band began with a cover song of Coldplay’s Yellow. As soon as the song began, I was soaked into the amazing acoustics of the small room. I could hear every little detail including Andrew’s fingers against his guitar strings while his voice resonated across the room. The drums and bass nicely complemented the guitar and vocals as the room filled with music. A few guests stopped conversing and looked up only to be entranced in the melody. After several other songs from various artists including Coldplay, Incubus, Dave Matthews, and Flutter, Andrew’s band concluded and thanked the listeners and proceeded to pack up their instruments. Having enjoyed the show thoroughly, I graciously dug through my pockets. Finally, after unearthing a pile of lint and paper, my hands fell on a creased $10 bill at the bottom. I rose from the couch and walked to the counter as I unfolded the bill. Behind the counter, the workers were all Hershey High students. The employees gave me a warm greeting as I set the $10 bill on the counter and bought coffee for the band members and a Kiwi Slush for myself. Only I would ever think of ordering something freezing in this weather. The exhausted band came over and took their coffee and thanked me in the process. Thanks to the relaxing atmosphere of the café, Andrew’s music, and the Kiwi Slush that danced on my tongue ended the afternoon on a relaxing note. I helped my friends move their belongings into their cars and we drove home. In less than a year, when I attend college in a big city, I can only ponder of what my life was like in this little hamlet. Though my future will be very different from now, I will never forget about the sweet parts of life in Hershey. Namely, this small secluded café in the middle of nowhere.</h2>

<p>Supplement Prompt 2: By this point in your academic career, you have taken a variety of courses, each with its own distinguishing characteristics. Which one has been the most interesting, and what made it so?</p>

<p>Without the wonders of science and technology, people would still be struggling and competing to survive. Fortunately, humans alike have shared a common goal of attaining information and harnessing it for the good of mankind. In my academic endeavors, I share this common thread as I strive for excellence in the area of science.</p>

<p>My thirst for knowledge has been apparent since I was very young. Although my intellectual interests have been unvarying, I couldn’t decide what I wanted to devote my life to, until now. As I grew, I narrowed down my passion to the sciences as it allows me to incorporate my intellectual strengths and interests, and apply them for the better of mankind.</p>

<h2>What makes this area intriguing is the immeasurable amount of knowledge within our grasps. As my life’s work, I plan on furthering the understanding of our universe and providing scientific innovations to be at our disposal. Galileo and Newton, two central founding fathers in the areas of motion and gravity, were once ridiculed for their ideas. However, without them, we wouldn’t have been able to set foot on the moon or explore other savage territories. Therefore, I believe scientists must have courage: not the type of courage you’d expect from Superman, but audacity to overstep boundaries, fight through obstacles, and dismiss any ridicule that may delay their progress. So essentially, scientists are heroes, too. They have made our lives easier and more worthwhile. As long as curiosity thrives within me, I’ll proudly seek to attain my goals and become one who works for the benefit of the world.</h2>

<p>Thanks, I know that JHU weighs essays as a very important part of admissions (i heard it was more important than GPA/SAT) so I thought I should post them instead of giving my own rating. My essays for Cornell are similar, and along the same lines. Please give and opinions/advice...Thanks.</p>

3

<p>um...about your first essay.
First of all, it is REALLY well written. However, you should write about something you are truly interested in and plan to carry that interest into the prospective college you are going to attend (Hopefully JHU). It's not like you are going to major in the Rubik's Cube.
For example, for my essay drafts, I wrote about my obsession to become a doctor and my flair for biology, chemistry, and the like.</p>

4

<p>Well, my prospective major (engineering) is nothing unique. I thought my cube essay was a unique way to give insight into my personal qualities, which is what college essays are supposed to be for. If you could evaluate my chances, i would really appreciate it. :)</p>

5

<p>i think your 3 essays are very interesting and well written. (i like $10 one. i think it was very ordinary yet creative, warm and cool.)</p>

<p>you have, say, an average/fair chance, probably.
your sat2s are kinda low, but those SAT1/2 scores wouldnt keep you out of compeitions.</p>

<p>2 Qs; r u an non-native english speaker? and do you have leadership?</p>

6

<p>oh btw i think the cube essay is unique and interesting. Essays do not have to be (if not "it should be") related to your major TOO obviously.</p>

7

<p>The first language I learned was Chinese (born in China) but I've been speaking English more than any other language so I guess its more of my native language now. As for leadership, what do you mean? Clubs and activities I'm assuming? I hold minor leadership roles in a few clubs I helped create, but that's about it. I'm, mainly depending on my essays/recs/personality traits/skills/non-academic stuff for admission (probably not enough). -_-</p>

8

<p>BTW, I'm horrible at standardized tests and tests in general...I know that's really going to hurt me. -,,-</p>

9

<p>wow.. i didnt know it was possible to write that long of an essay on a rubik's cube...</p>

<p>but anyways.. nice essay, but i think these schools are still slight reaches because of your low sat scores... however, you still have a good chance. good luck</p>

10

<p>What SAT 2's did you take?</p>

11

<p>The essay is nice.. it's about problem solving, which is essential for engineering - very well written.</p>

<p>SAT's are fine, I'd say a good chance at both.</p>

12

<p>I have taken Math 2C, Physics, and Writing, respectively.</p>

13

<p>Your essays are fine. I've read a lot about how to write essays for the most competitive schools, and yours fit the bill. One question in my mind- how does the theatre fit in with the rest of your life? If you could expand on that, the schools could see you better as an individual, and that will help. Obviously, you are a musician, so you ended up in some musicals. Did you act in the school productions, or just do music? Hopkins has a joint program with Peabody Conservatory, so the music connection may help. I think you have a good shot at both places.</p>

14

<p>Thanks guys. OneMom, thanks for bringing up the school production idea, but unfortunately its too late for me to augment that into my essays. :( I feel stupid now, since I devote most of my EC time to productions. During productions, I act in the plays and sing in musicals. I discovered I had a hidden singing talent when I auditioned last year. Do you guys think it will hurt if I only list them in my activities sections? Or should I call the colleges and ask them what to do? I really want to get in to both schools, and I'm worried since admission is so competitive. If anyone has any suggestions or anything else please tell. Thanks. :)</p>

15

<p>I already told you your rubiks cube essay is well written but that it is 293 words too long. Ignore advice at your own peril.</p>

16

<p>Your SATII scores could be higher and your JHU $10 essay doesn't reveal anything about you. Even though they were looking for creativity, I don't think they wanted a narrative, but some insight on who you are. Anyway, you have a decent chance. The Rubix cube is a little overrated.....</p>

17

<p>I think the essays are very good overall though. College essays in general seem to convey who you are to an amazing degree, and I've never met you, but you seem like a really nice kid whom I would get along well with from the essays.</p>

18

<p>Thanks, I know my english teacher mentioned my friendliness and good spirit in her rec. :) Hopefully the admissions board will think the same.</p>

19

<p>I thought that you could expand on your theatre connection in the interviews or through recommendations. Sounds as if your application is complete now though. The only thing you could do would be to send in an extra recommendation, but they may not allow or like that. Well- if you are waitlisted, you could send in some updates on your accomplishments and mayber work it in then. But, I think that you will do OK, you have a good shot.</p>