<p>I've been painting and drawing for many years now and I have pretty decent portfolio. My guidance counselor and art teachers have said that it's good enough to submit to colleges even though I don't plan on pursuing art. However, on the Harvard Admissions website, it says that you shouldn't submit a portfolio unless you truly have an unusual and exceptional talent -- should I still submit it? I don't consider my artistic ability to be astounding, but my portfolio is strong and shows diverse abilities. Could submitting it hinder my application if the admissions officers don't find it to be "exceptional?"</p>
<p>As you are not planning to pursue art, the strength of your application is going to be based upon your GPA, test scores, essays and recommendations. Art will just be something extra – and if your portfolio is strong and shows diverse abilities, it could enhance your overall application to colleges. Take the advice of your guidance counselor and art teachers. If they think your work is exceptional, then submit an art supplement to all of the colleges on your list, including Harvard.</p>