When applying to UPenn, it asks,
"How did you discover your intellectual and academic interests, and how will you explore them at the University of Pennsylvania? Please respond considering the specific undergraduate school you have selected. (300-450 words)
For students applying to the coordinated dual-degree and specialized programs, please answer these questions in regard to your single-degree school choice; your interest in the coordinated dual-degree or specialized program may be addressed through the program-specific essay."
I’m planning on majoring in East Asian Studies with a focus on China, so my essay focuses on that and how it connects to my past work as an IT intern and volunteer (Shenzhen, etc.)
However, I’m also trying for the Huntsman program, where I’d focus on China. There are a few paragraphs where the content is almost identical, but more detailed, than my East Asian Studies essay. Would this be problematic? Seeing how similar these two higher education paths are, I found it difficult to substantially differentiate the two essays. Does a specific committee read the Huntsman essay separately?
Stats:
SAT: 1540 770/770
GPA (W): 4.59
AP’s/Honors: 17
SAT II’s: Physics: 770; Math II: 800; English Lit.: 700
EC’s are good with Chinese speech contests and volunteer work building computer labs for homeless shelters and a home for people with developmental disabilities.
ANY help or insight is greatly appreciated! Thank you for your time.