<p>do what you like to do is great advice...you can't just wake up and decide that you are going to do something that will get you into harvard. Whatever it your special thing is, it should come naturally...my friend and i went to the harvard club christmas party in san antonio after we got in early and all the people there (most of them interviewers) were talking about how they could "smell plastic from a mile away" So DONT be fake!</p>
<p>Show how you're not a typical Asian in your essays. I'm Asian too, and I know what you mean about being afraid of falling into that trap. I guess you've just got to be yourself and hope Harvard likes what you have to offer. Good luck!</p>
<p>Just a q.. how is swim team considered "Asian?" I've been a swimmer practically my whole life (year-round team; HS team is only in the spring) and there aren't that many Asians on my team. I think out of 200ish kiddos there's like.. 10 Asians lol. Are there lots of Asians on your team?</p>
<p>you can pick up something "different" but just don't make a huge deal outta it unless you find yourself enjoying it and possibly doing it in the future.</p>
<p>i'm asian and i play violin, piano, tennis and i'm excelling in math and science. i'm a lot "worse" than you are in terms of being typical.</p>
<p>Do what you love and do it passionately, even if it is 'typically asian.' Maybe even write a killer essay that looks back on the "typical asian" thing humorously.</p>
<p>ya. I agree with la_scorcha. Essays will make a difference.</p>
<p>and your stats don't sound like a typical asian at all.
most asians (I assume) are involved in math clubs, science clubs, quiz bowl, science bowl, cross country etc. Westinghouse semifinalist is a spectacular achievement and very few asians (compared to the applicant pool) have that on their app. Water polo is also unique; it requires lots of practice doesn't it? You must have a gigantic shoulder!</p>
<p>You're unique. Don't worry. Perhaps continuing your research will be helpful?</p>