Cornell University

“I decided to apply to Cornell relatively late inJan 15 2007Architecture
I decided to apply to Cornell relatively late in the admission process, so I don't have any advice about starting out early. I'd say boards, test scores, and grades are important, but what's most important is being able to market yourself as an individual and to make a case as to why the university should select YOU over the other applicants (you can do this through the essay questions and supplemental material). As an architecture school applicant, I made sure that my portfolio for admission reflected not only who I was, but my talent levels and skills as an artist and aspiring architect. In addition, be honest throughout the process. Inflating your resume and personal acheivements can only get you so far. Lastly, make sure you visit campus either before or after you get admitted, and go during the normal academic school year.

“I went to a 2 year community college, andJan 09 2007Animal Studies
I went to a 2 year community college, and I worked hard. My GPA was a 4.0. I made sure I joined Phi Theta Kappa (although in the long run, it never helped me much.) I made sure to cover all the prerequisites for my "main" school. It really helps to sit down and talk to one of the admissions people in person because behind closed doors they are more apt to disclose more information to you.

When it came to the application, I wrote an essay that was from the heart. Make sure you use a real experience because you are more likely to come across more genuine than if you are making something up. My essay was not a sweet trip to the ocean, it was very deep and disturbing because I wrote about someone's death. I always kept the short essays truthful. I wasn't trying to kiss up because I realized that if they didn't like what I said, then they weren't the right school for me. Remember, not only are they choosing you to join the student body, you are also "paying" to hire them to give you your education. It's a two way street!!
Female

“I think that besides the obvious high GPA/SAT scores,Oct 11 2006Business - Management and Administration
I think that besides the obvious high GPA/SAT scores, the most important thing is to express a real interest in the major to which you are applying. Cornell would rather have smart students who are truly interested in learning in their departments than a bunch of validictorians without direction.
ACT: 35 SAT: 1520 Female