Importance of the art supplement for the artistically disinclined?

Colleges & Universities Stanford University
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<p>Hello! </p>

<p>I am applying SCEA to Stanford (nervous and unsure about myself but totally in love with Stanford since the 3rd grade). Today I was talking with someone about applying to Stanford, and she said how important having an art supplement for Stanford was. Will this negatively affect my chances if I’m not artistic? I know Stanford values intellectual vitality and creativity, but I’m a very passionate writer and philanthropist-- can’t draw or do music well. Sooo, that’s the problem. </p>

<p>However, I am editor-in-chief of a nationally recognized yearbook. We make some pretty awesome graphic designs using photography, photoshop and indesign. We’re sending a message and telling people’s stories in a creative matter. And there definitely is a design/artistic component to making a gorgeous yearbook spread. Is that supplement-worthy? </p>

<p>Here’s my chance thread. <a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/1164754-chance-columbia-upenn-uchicago.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/1164754-chance-columbia-upenn-uchicago.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

<p>Thanks and best of luck to everyone =)</p>

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<p>layerd, this is a great example of why it’s best not to take random people’s statements about colleges too seriously. It’s not at all necessary to submit an arts supplement. It’s a nice addition to an application for those who are especially focused on the arts, but it’s just that: a supplement. The most important parts of the application are the parts that are required for all students. The person who made that statement to you was probably planning to submit an arts supplement herself, so she is likely putting personal emphasis on it, but you’d by no means be disadvantaged if you choose not to submit one. As to the yearbook question, I agree that great graphic design has a creative and artistic component, but I don’t know whether that is the kind of submission they expect. You might want to call the admissions office and ask though. Good luck.</p>

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<p>Thanks for clearing that up, zenkoan!</p>

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<p>Stanford specifically says that the art supplement is for students with artistic / musical talent that far exceeds that of the regular accomplished high school student. They use the term “extraordinary talent” in the arts. This is not something to use to pad you app. and they frown on sending extra materials at every turn. Before you send, I would advocate realistically asking yourself if your materials meet this stated standard.</p>