<p>Just curious if anyone is really familiar with the importance of additional supplements in the admissions process. I plan on sending a portfolio of artwork. Thanks.</p>
<p>The supplements are really important if they help you get accepted! I know that sounds snide, but it's going to be different in every case.</p>
<p>BTW, before sending your art portfolio, you should dig around the art department website and/or talk to one of the art professors about what's the best way to send the portfolio and who to send it to.</p>
<p>My recommendation: anything that involves a subjective evaluation (music, theater, art, sports, etc.) really should trigger at least an e-mail conversation with the appropriate department to make sure you've got your i's dotted and t's crossed and just to introduce yourself. </p>
<p>I think the admissions office would always involve the appropriate faculty/coaches in those decisions, even it's just informal over lunch ("what did you think of Joe Blow's art? Was it any good?")</p>
<p>I have no idea, but I'm guessing that there is probably a formal sit down meeting with art professors and the admissions people to review the applications and portfolio submissions from the hard-core "art" applicants. Same with dance, theater, etc. Just because some familiarity and expertise is required to evaluate the applicants in those areas.</p>
<p>Thanks. Actually in the application booklet Swarthmore sent me, it gives pretty detailed information about where to send it (admissions) and how to prepare it. I think e-mailing the department and introducing myself is a good idea though.</p>
<p>The more contact you have with the school, the better. It might not have a huge impact, but for a lot of applicants it comes down to a <em>very</em> fine line, and having a department advocating for you would help. And it helps you get to know Swat.</p>