Cornell’s CAS supplement asks us to write about 2-3 intellectual interests. What exactly is an “intellectual interest”? Can anyone give specific examples?
How do YOU define “intellectual interest”?
^Agreed. It’s anything you’d like it to be. I wrote about biology and mathematics, as well as art and music (way less in depth). As long as it’s something you’re interested in (and something you can study there) you should be fine!
I thought it was an intended major at first but then a current cornell friend said that’s not it. He couldn’t really explain it either.
@lurkertoposter What if the reasons for the interests seem weak? Like for Psychology, I was curious about the minds of criminals and how they plan their assaults from my forensic science class. For Math, I’m interested in how it’s applicable to everything and that I get a euphoric feeling after finding an answer. For Economics, I like to see how different factors affect outputs/results, and for sociology, Im interested in the study of society?? I feel like these “interests” seem way too vague and generic.
I think those all sound great, and highly interdisciplinary! As long you discuss them in depth, and explain your passion with that classic “Why Cornell” flavor, I think it will be fine. For me, it was easier to focus on two subjects in particular (which happened to be my intended majors, lol) and then write a quick paragraph about art and music and use them to talk about why I like the stress placed on a liberal arts education. You could choose a few topics to discuss at length, or talk about all four equally. Assuming you have personal experiences (which you must, since you know you like them, especially with psychology) they can’t be generic. They just want to know what you feel passionate about and see the way you think/how you’re going to use their resources.
@lurkertoposter What if I apply as an intended econ major but don’t mention it at all in my essay? Let’s say I go with psych + history and then I write about how Cornell would help me in those subjects. Or if I do like 90% about psych, and then a small paragraph (10%) about econ. Wouldn’t the admission reader think that I’m studying the wrong thing b/c I seem less passionate in my essay?
Well, it’s not up to the admissions officer to dictate how you choose your major (luckily, ahaha). However, I think it would probably look better if you did mention economics (at least) somewhat even though it does say academic interests, leaving the question is open. Basically, you could write it either way, but having a cohesive application is definitely a strength. May I ask why your intended major is economics, if you do seem more enthusiastic about psychology? It’s not a locked position, you could always put that you intend psychology if you’d like.
@lurkertoposter I’ve been more of a math/number person throughout my life and it was interesting how various factors in play could affect the outcome (very vague, I know). I grew up as a low-income kid and was very good at budgeting my money, so I guess the “making the most out of limited resources” aspect of economics really appeals to me. I plan on entering the financial services industry for exit opportunities and ultimately becoming a social entrepreneur. Econ would probably help me out more than Psychology. On paper, my enthusiasm for econ would sound trite.
I think my enthusiasm about psychology would be easier to describe because my forensics teacher was probably the best in terms of teaching and keeping us interested. I also can’t picture myself as a psychologist/any medical field or working in HR. Though I would double major in both psych and econ if given the opportunity (my sister did that).
Obviously, it’s not my place and the decision is ultimately yours. However: your interest in economics sounds personal, sustained, and multi faceted! You have the abstract for a fantastic paper in this very comment.
The other thing is (and this is a personal opinion) while your interest in psychology seems explainable, there is a chance that the fact you are interested in psychology due to you interest in the minds of criminals but don’t really see yourself as a psychologist/other job opportunity could come off as a surface level interest. I say this because my mom is a psychologist and she’s commented on how people are easily attracted to the bells and whistles of criminal psychology that they see in TV and movies, but that isn’t really representative of the subject. On the other hand, that’s a highly personalized opinion and you’re not required to know the ins and outs of psychology before you even study it, plus, I don’t know you or your life!
In brief, your interest in economics seems like a great topic, and I wouldn’t discount it. You have such interesting stories about your interests that I’m sure your essay will turn out well, and I"m curious about your interest in history!
Thank you! Your posts truly helped me think of something.