<p>Hey guys, I had a slightly...unusual question. I am currently a rising senior (I'm in between my junior and senior years) and have recently filed for a US Patent. I spent quite a bit of time--nearly all of last summer and about half of this summer--creating the patent; last summer, I submitted my provisional patent, while this summer, I sent in my official application for a US Utility Patent. I believe my patent is quite innovative but, more importantly, I don't think many people my age have filed for their own patent--would this make me stand out for colleges? Should I mention it? And if so, where should I mention in it in the Common Application--honors, extracurriculars, or my essay?</p>
<p>Please help me! I'm a relatively competitive student (see my other "What are my Chances" post), but I'm wondering if my patent will give me any edge and, if so, how/where to mention it. Thanks!</p>
<p>include it in your essay!..people are always going on about how they aren’t generic college applicants because they do well in academia and also maintain a healthy social life; but in truth there are copious amounts of people who could say the same…however the same cannot be said about applying for gov’t patents…if you do take up the essay idea write a story. its human nature to get sucked into a story(hopefully somewhat well-written depending on where you’re applying)…don’t be egotistical, think about your passion for whatever you were working on and creative juices should come(that’s what she said?..jk)…</p>
<p>and to add(because i don’t know when to shutup):
obviously you won’t get accepted on the patent alone, but it is certainly memorable and can help you get chosen over another person…much like being the founder of an active organization, or native american, or a blind pianist, or the lone survivor of a plane crash as a child…i think went a little far, but my point is that your patent or work on a possible patent is a lot more unique than…varsity tennis player(depending)…if you got the patent approved than it would put you up there with the crazy mutant overachievers…like the ones that develop vaccines and such…
this is assuming your patent is practical…</p>
<p>I think you’d be surprised by how many young people hold patents. This is only a big deal if you’ve incorporated the patent into a sccessful venture.</p>
<p>Thanks! And nice “that’s what she said,” LOL :-D</p>
<p>At hmom05, I’m just curious, is it really that common for young people to hold patents? I’m not trying to be “confrontational,” I’m honestly curious.</p>