<p>I've been learning an Indian classical percussion instrument called the mridangam for around 7 years now, and I won first place in the only competition in the area.</p>
<p>I was wondering whether submitting an art supplement with my Stanford application would help my chances. Will it hurt me if it isn't "extraordinary" as their website says it should be, or could it help me because it's something unique? My Common App short EC explanation will be about playing this instrument.</p>
<p>I'll be applying for a Computer Engineering major, and have no intention of pursuing arts at Stanford.</p>
<p>It does not appear to meet the “extraordinary” qualification. In addition, you are not going to pursue it or any other musical/art major in college so it makes it even less relevant. It should be talked about as an EC like any other EC. Make it only 1 part of a comprehensive application.</p>
<p>Clarification - I’m going to pursue it as a hobby, just not as a major. </p>
<p>Ok, I’ll keep that in mind. My thinking was that it might add something to the application because it’s an unique instrument. Thanks for the advice.</p>
<p>I’m pretty sure camomof3 is wrong… you don’t submit supplements because you want to major in it, you submit it because it shows another side of you. It reinforces your extracurricular statement if you show legitimate skill in your craft. It’s more like doing a supplemental interview than anything else, from what admissions officers have told me. Doesn’t hurt at all, unless you’re terrible at it. I believe Stanford rates it out of 5 (some schools rate it out of 10, other schools give it a good/bad), and a 4 or a 5 can help. They normally send it to the music department, and they look at it; they will recognize how unique your instrument is. Most people who submit arts supplements do NOT end up majoring in art; in fact, almost none do. Definitely do it if you have time, but you’re not missing out on much if you don’t. It won’t make or break your app.</p>
<p>I decided that I will be submitting an arts supplement, if only because the instrument I play is so unique, and though there aren’t that many people my age to compare to, I am pretty good. </p>
<p>Thanks for the tips guys.</p>