CeciliaZC

I really love Cornell for it's diversity and the fact that if offers a variety of courses to its students. I'm going to apply to Cornell ED this fall.

I have a strong interest for both Architecture and engineering. I don't think I have super good grades compare to the other applicants and my sat scores are ok. From what I heard, different colleges in Cornell really look at whether your backgroud shows that you had shown an enthusiasim in that specific area study.

I had taken architecture courses offered by my school starting from sophmore year to senior year. And had taken rigorous science and math classes. But my math grades in my junior year is not so great, since I took 6 majors this year and one of them is ap english(I'm a foreign student and I came to American in 7th grade.), which was a little too much. (I don't regret it though, I learned a lot. )

My grades in math are Bs for junior year(too many classes) and sophmore year(Family issue, moving around a lot and didn't go to school for a while). Grade for Sat ii Math ii and chem are all 780. Sat 2120.

My grades in my science and my architecture classes had always been great.
I took Ap Chem in my Junior year and I'm goint to take Ap physics C next year.
Took art 1 for freshman year and that's all. Have a portfolio from architecture class.

Here's my question, I don't think I'm a strong applicant compare to others, so I want to chose the area that my grades and experiences supports me this best. Do all of you think my overall course selection/grades gives me a better chance for Architecture or Engineering?

Please Help Thanks a lot.

ny4chelsea

Cornell has an option where you can apply to two schools, where one is your alternate. I would definitely look into that because I feel it applies in your situation.

memphismom

When you are applying to very specific programs like Architecture, you are going to be judged on your demonstrated interest in that field. Arch is one of only two schools to offer and REQUIRE an interview. (Hotel is the other). You will need to put together a portfolio I believe - so start checking the admission requirements on the Cornell website now. That will help you more in determining your fit than asking here.

csdad

They don't just want to know if you demonstrate an interest in the field...they want to determine that you are very talented in it also!!

CeciliaZC

Thanks a lot for telling me about this! It's great to know that I can apply for both colleges.

CeciliaZC

In this case, would sending my portfolio demonstrate my ability in the area or would it be better if I also asks my teacher for a recommendation? Thanks for the help!

CeciliaZC

Also, I'm kind of worried that my grades in my junior year would be a problem when I apply to Cornell. Can anyone comment on that?

CT1417

Approximately 35% of female Engineering applicants were accepted in 2010 & 2011 versus 13.7 & 16.5% of female AA&P applicants. Can't hazard a guess about your chances.

Although you did not ask and things may have changed massively since I was there, the AA&P students rarely saw the light of day, even compared to EE students.

CeciliaZC

Wow! That's really nice to know. I'm sure I do want some free time for my college life. Thanks a lot for mentioning that.