<p>I will be an international applicant applying to Harvard. I am a diagnosed case of an extremely rare disease, Coats’ Disease, since 1996. I have undergone 17 surgeries that include cryosurgeries and laser sittings. The disease is found in about one in a million males. The advance of the disease has now ceased. It is probably due to a genetic mutation.</p>
<p>The disease has affected my left eye. I am only capable of distinguishing colors thru my left eye. The vision of my right is what is keeping me on track. </p>
<p>The problem has not deterred me from performing to the best of my abilities. I have a high score of 95.2% in my standard 12th examinations with a perfect hundred in computer sciences, my intended area of study at Harvard. I have great participation in most districts of school life, including debating, computers, astronomy, chemistry research, presentations, oracle courses, environment council, literary council et al. I am still to appear for my SAT I and II.</p>
<p>I do not have any participation in sport related activities due to my problem. My doctor advised me not to take part in any such activities that might lead to recurrence of the problem.</p>
<p>Harvard has been my dream school always. I believe it allows you to submerge yourself in this atmosphere of learning that is unparalleled. My query is that, ‘Would the problem in my eye hamper my admission to Harvard?’ or on the contrary ‘Would it signify that I have crossed severe obstacles to reach the position I am in today and help the cause of my admission?’. </p>
<p>I have worked really hard to earn those grades and the respect of my teachers. I don’t want to let go of my chance to be at Harvard because of my problem. Guys please help, I am in dire need.</p>
<p>^Not really across the street, more like down the river. :)</p>
<p>Lack of sports is not going to keep you out of Harvard, though if you are concerned you can explain why you didn’t play sports in the “is there anything else you want to let us know” part of the application.</p>
<p>You don’t have to explain lack of sports. S has not participated in sports. while his vision is not perfect, that’s not why he has not. Just total lack of interest (he did Physical Education, however, as mandated by the state).</p>
<p>If you are interested in comp sci, however, I suggest you look at schools other than Harvard as well.</p>
<p>Thank you very much for the replies guys!!!</p>
<p>I would also like to gather your opinion on ‘Would it signify that I have crossed severe obstacles to reach the position I am in today and help the cause of my admission?’.</p>
<p>If you write about it please make it interesting. Not to undermine your struggle but an interesting / deep topic doesn’t always make an interesting / deep essay. A lot of disability/illness essays end up being</p>
<p>I have _____
I got it when I was _____
It forces me to ______
For example, it challenged me when I ______
But it’s not all bad because _____
It has allowed me to _____
Today, I am ______</p>
<p>and every admissions officer wants to shoot him/herself subsequently.</p>
<p>Harvard’s Non-Discrimination policy in admissions:
Harvard University does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, veteran status, or **handicap **in admission.</p>
<p>Dwight, I think Harvard is gaining preference in my heart for '14 admissions if all Cantabs roll like you. :D</p>
<p>And to the OP, I think you have every reason to be proud of your achievements, and I’m sure colleges will also understand your resilience and perserverence and view it in a favourable light.</p>