<p>I know it's recommended for schools like MIT to pick one thing to really focus on and excel at it. The problem is, I have more of a polymath mentality (without the expertise). While math and science are my favorite subjects, the humanities also interest me (and used to interest me more), and my course selection reflects that. In junior high and elementary school, I was always the best in every subject. Then I hit high school, and bumped up against the experts in each field who specialized in those subjects only. I'm always second best now, no matter how hard I try, and I'm worried that it'll lead to bad (or just OK) recommendations and I won't stand a chance. The same goes for my ECs: I try the hardest (and have been teased for it), but I'm still on JV while the (naturally athletic) slackers are on Varsity. Nor do I have any natural musical talent whatsoever. The only thing I still top the class at is reading outside of school (and taking standardized tests, but I digress): fantasy, sci-fi, history, math, science, politics; mainly books that no one else will touch but which make me my friends' walking talking dictionary/encyclopedia/atlas/editorial/historian/nerd. Plus I can't write, especially not concisely. Will I be penalized for participating in a variety of activities, all of which I find endlessly fascinating, while excelling in none of the fields? Is it too late (as a rising junior) to narrow the focus? Should I even?</p>
<p>MIT doesn’t admit only “narrow-minded” people. I know a lot of students here who aren’t the best in the world at math or physics, but are interested in a variety of fields.</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>No, it’s not.</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>Although Piperxp disagrees, the issue is: What is your passion? A passion results in focus and excelling.</p>
<p>When does 7+7=10? The example is an accountant, but it applies to a lot of STEM fields. Someone who is above average (7) in their field, and above average (7) in personality (communications, etc.) can be outstanding (10).</p>
<p>Not everyone can be the best. The question is whether you can play on the same field as the best. If you can keep up with the Jones’, and be engaging at the same time, that will set you up to be successful. Other than the top research labs, no one wants a genius that hides in his lab 24/7.</p>
<p>So, find a few things you are good at (compared to other people), and combine them into a great career.</p>