<p>My passions are in writing, communications, journalism, human rights, cultural studies, etc. I'd never originally considered CMU because of its tech reputation, but I recently heard that its liberal arts side is also excellent. Can anyone give me some advice?</p>
<p>I can’t give you the point of view of a student, but I recently had the same question. I spent the weekend at CMU and now can say with resounding confidence that, as someone interested in the humanities and social sciences, I will NOT apply. I felt that there was an overwhelming emphasis on engineering, math, and the pure sciences as well as secondary emphasis on business and the fine arts. It was extremely difficult for me to find H&SS students and the program I attended, Celebration of Diversity Weekend, had many events for STEM students but only two or three events for H&SS students. The STEM emphasis is also prevalent in the required curriculum.</p>
<p>If you’re interested in the humanities, but with a technical slant to them, then CMU might not be a bad choice. Stuff like technical writing/communications and the impact of technology on people would probably be a solid reason to go to CMU. Otherwise I wouldn’t really recommend it unless your personality really matches the place.</p>
<p>(Also, you likely heard the Fine Arts at CMU is excellent, not the Liberal Arts. We have very strong art, drama, design, and music programs.)</p>
<p>Like RacinReaver said, if you’re looking at the liberal arts with a technical slant, it’s probably a great place to go. I say read about the majors you’re interested in intensely, and visit the campus if at all possible. If you are a minority and you decide to apply, try to go to the Celebration of Diversity Weekend in January. I just went to the CoD weekend this past weekend and it was incredibly insightful. Otherwise, visit if you can afford it… it will probably push you either way. Keep in mind that there are twice as many students in the engineering school as there are in H&SS alone, and that H&SS is outnumber three to one by the other schools combined.</p>