<p>Okay, so I'm very divided on the issue of supplementary materials.
I am a photographer, by hobby and by a self-employed business of sorts. I've taken a few people's christmas card pictures and senior portraits and have gotten paid. However, I haven't won any awards or been recognized, unless you count them being exhbited in our school's art festival.</p>
<p>The same goes for my drawings: I sketch as a hobby, and some of my artwork my art teacher has had exhbited at another school but then again.. that's it.</p>
<p>Would it be useless to submit my photography and sketches? I am very proud of them, but I just don't feel like I have any awards/recognitions to beef them up. Similarly, I plan to pursue a Biology degree -- that's where my heart is, so is it essentially futile to submit art? I just wanted to know if it would help showcase my being well-rounded, or is having it listed in my ECs enough?</p>
<p>If it’s really, truly good–and get a couple independent appraisals-- I’d send it. Generally people should NOT send scores if they DO have awards to beef them up, because adcoms will look at awards and be impressed but if they’re less impressed by the art, it devalues all the awards. However, in your case, sending in the art should be positive, assuming it’s good.</p>
<p>Furthermore, it is by no means “futile” to send in an art supplement since you plan to major in something else. In fact, it will illustrate you are not a “one trick pony” so-to-speak. Good luck! :)</p>
<p>Another question: so, I did not take any classes so there is no teacher that is familiar with my work. The common app art supplement is a bit daunting, as it asks for awards and an art teacher recommendation. So, how do schools, ivy leagues in particular, want photography to be sent??</p>
<p>If it’s really good work, and if you intend to continue being an artist and photographer in college, and you plan to contribute those talents to the college community (not just doing it for personal enjoyment), then you should send.</p>
<p>As a personal account, I sent in a music supplement with all of my applications. I’m not going to major in music and I’m probably not even going to minor in music, but I want to be involved in a LOT of musical ensembles. Because music is a big part of what I’m bringing to the college community, I sent the supplement.</p>