Hello,
I’m applying to Carnegie Mellon University via the Common Application. One section specific to CMU reads
“If you have an interest in sharing examples of your experience/talent in one or more areas of research, performing arts, visual arts, writing or maker projects you may indicate your intention to submit supplementary materials to Carnegie Mellon in these areas for review through Slideroom. This is completely optional. Do you intend on submitting supplementary materials in one or more of these areas?”
I plan to major in chemistry but wrote an environmental toxicology research report based on work I did at my high school and at a major research university. In addition, I love art and have pursued it as a hobby, an elective (I’m taking AP Studio Art this coming year), and an extracurricular (I intend to become a member of the National Art Honor Society by spring).
Should I submit my research report even though it is outside the field of chemistry? And should I submit some of my artwork even though it is irrelevant to my intended major? Would adding these optional pieces to my application be too much and not help or even hurt my chances of getting in? All advice would be greatly appreciated.
UPDATE: According to the directions on the site for actually submitting your supplemental work, CMU wants you to select only one area of focus (i.e., only art or research, not both). Also another description says:
“Applicants outside of the College of Fine Arts are not required to submit supplemental application materials, however, doing so provides you the opportunity to showcase any talents or interests not covered in the Common Application. Think of this as your “elevator-pitch”, you have one opportunity to share your work with us, so choose the pieces, projects or works of art that mean the most to you.”
So I guess my question is: should I submit my research report, my artwork, or neither?
My gut feel is to submit whichever one (research report or art) is more exceptional. If you think they are equally exceptional, then maybe lean toward the scientific research since you’re applying to MCS. OTOH:
My son (also a scientist/artist) applied to MCS to study physics and he submitted his art via Slideroom. It tied into his essay topic. This was the only school he sent an art supplement into, and it was his reachy-est acceptance. I do believe CMU really does value an applicant who spans STEM and Humanities.
Definitely do one of them…‘neither’ is not an option.
Thank you very much for your reply, pickpocket. I’m glad to know CMU appreciates supplemental material; I will definitely submit something.
Still, especially after hearing about your son, I am not sure which type of work to submit. Anyone else with an experience/opinion, feel free to chime in!