<p>I am a socialist and many of the books I have read recently, issues important to me, and other things that are prominent on the application would reflect that. To be honest, its part of who I am. Should I not include anything related to that on my application? I’m concerned that would hurt my chances of getting in.</p>
<p>Having socialist views per se won’t be a negative. Being close minded and preachy about one’s views might be. Be careful how you come off. Plus, in your personal statements, remember that they aren’t platforms for you to preach but to shed light about yourself – it’s a fine balancing act</p>
<p>As for “chances” – they’ll be dim when you hit the **submit **button – just like everyone else.</p>
<p>No. If outspoken politics are important to your identity, they’ll help you stand out. Don’t censor yourself because you think that’s what the admissions committee wants to see; it generally isn’t.</p>
<p>That said, T26E4 is right that you don’t want to appear close-minded, just passionate.</p>
<p>I agree with the previous commenters, and it’s an interesting question. I think Columbia makes room for you to say these kind of things by giving you space to list books/publications/events you’ve read/attended in the last year and then giving you space to articulate why one of them is important to you and how it has impacted you- how they made your beliefs become “part of who you are”</p>
<p>Actually, this sounds like the stuff of a great essay, as long as you inform and enrich your reading audience, rather than lecture, hector, or talk down. If this is a large part of who you are, DON’T hide from it. Risk it. And remember, TONE will matter.</p>
<p>If it matters at all, there are plenty of socialists here in NYC. The city population and government is dominated by liberals/Democrats. Most academics are left-wing as well. </p>
<p>Disclosure-I’m a conservative capitalist</p>
<p>I’m definitly not preachy, at least I try not to be. And I sometimes find myself definding conservatives, at least philosophically, because I don’t want to be closed minded. I even want to join the young republicans! Thanks for the advice.</p>