<p>so engineering schools have a section where they ask you to list any awards/distinction you received… do you think someone should omit the fact that they were a state finalist for Miss Rhode Island USA? I heard some people say it is ‘refreshing’ to see while others say it is just distracting…does it look ‘bad’ to put on a resume or the section where you’re supposed to list any awards you’ve received…will it make the grad admissions not take the applicant seriously? any input is appreciated.</p>
<p>Do NOT put this on a grad application!!! The “awards/distinction” section is intended for academic or research awards, preferably those related to your specific area of study, and anything NOT using those criteria has no place in the application. Grad admissions is focused on your ability to pass the coursework and do the research, and being a finalist for Miss RI indicates NEITHER. At realistic best it is a non-issue, at worst it prejudices them against you (some will dislike the accomplishment itself, some will dislike the mention).</p>
<p>Yeah, I wouldn’t put this on a graduate school application. It has zero bearing on your ability to accomplish graduate level work, and in a male-dominated department at worse it can net you some prejudice (as there is a prevalent stereotype that beauty queens are dumb).</p>
<p>Although it does remind me of the video in Legally Blond when she applied to Harvard Law School . . . . ;)</p>