How Do I Best Frame My Application?

Colleges & Universities Princeton University
1

<p>A few days ago i read on this forum that since Princeton now goes for people who are outstanding in certain fields, rather than those with several varied interests, and so to emphasise a certain theme through the Princeton application. Is it true that it’s best to emphasise a certain theme throughout the application?
For me, my speciality is maths, and I’ve represented Australia in the International Maths Olympiad twice and done well in several maths other competitions; but I’m not sure how to emphasise this theme. The main constituents of the application are:

  • List of Extracurricular activities [I’ve listen Maths Olympiad as one of them; another one was teaching Maths Olympiad classes at school; all the others, however, are unrelated]
  • Academic Honors [I’ve listed all my Maths achievements and awards]
  • Elaboration on one activity [I chose Maths Olympiad, and tried to illustrate why I like it, how I’m passionate about it, etc]
  • Essay 1: I chose Influential person essay. [Completely unrelated to Maths]
  • Essay 2: I chose “Some questions cannot be answered…” value/experience essay, [Completely unrelated to Maths, again].
    Have I done enough to emphasise that maths theme? If not, how can I emphasise it more, and do I need to incorporate it into my essays; if so, how can I link it in?
    Thanks in advance,
    V.</p>
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<p>I’m no expert, but here’s my take on it:</p>

<p>if your math awards are good enough, they’ll shine on their own. Use your essay to write about you. The admissions officers want an idea of your personality and character.</p>

3

<p>Your teacher recommendations should, ideally, demonstrate your strength and passion as a math student.</p>