<p>Will admissions staff from one college in Cornell read just my essay for applying to that college or read both essays? I am wondering about this because I am writing a very similar essay for each college and hope that does not hurt me.</p>
<p>You should get someone else to verify this, but it’s my understanding that the alternate essays are rarely read. The adcoms will read your primary essay, and if they reject you from your first choice college, they’ll decide whether or not they want to review your app. again for your second choice.</p>
<p>Again, I am NOT positive about this! So don’t hold me to anything :]</p>
<p>I was told by the presenter at a CALS information session that they sometimes will read the alternate essays for another college and might pass on a student if they think he’s a better fit there. Not a great policy for the student if you ask me, but you didn’t.</p>
<p>Hope this helps!</p>