What is the “Academic Subject” Section on the Common App, and Why Should You Care?
Ah, the Common App, that glorious platform that allows you to apply to countless colleges with the click of a button. But have you ever stared at the “Academic Subject” section and felt a wave of confusion? You’re not alone. It’s like a cryptic message from an ancient civilization, but fear not, my fellow college-bound comrades. We’re about to decipher this beast together.
The “Academic Subject” section on the Common App is basically your chance to showcase the awesome buffet of knowledge you’ve devoured during high school. Think of it as the academic equivalent of a “greatest hits” album. It’s not about your favorite subject (although, if you’re a fan of, say, 17th-century French literature, go ahead and let your flag fly). It’s about painting a comprehensive picture of your academic journey, from those mandatory English classes to the electives that made you question your sanity (looking at you, AP Physics).
Essentially, the Common App wants to know: “Hey, what did you study in high school, and how much did you torture yourself with it?”
The Decoding the Common App: A Breakdown of the “Academic Subject” Section
Imagine you’re a college admissions officer. They’re sifting through mountains of applications. They want to know: “What is this applicant’s academic background like?” Enter the “Academic Subject” section. This is where you get to show off your academic prowess, or at least make it seem like you’ve been studying something besides “The Art of Procrastination.”
Here’s the deal: you’re not just listing your favorite subjects (though, no judgment if you’re a total math whiz or a literature lover). You’re giving a detailed account of all the courses you’ve taken, broken down by year. This includes:
- Courses you’ve already completed: Remember those high school classes you’ve conquered? Yep, those go on the list.
- Courses you’re currently enrolled in: This is your “in progress” section.
- Courses you plan to take: This is where you get to showcase your future academic ambitions.
The Common App also requires you to indicate the level of each course:
- Honors: This is for those classes that are a little more challenging than the standard fare.
- Advanced Placement (AP): The big leagues of high school. These courses are designed to prepare you for college-level work.
- International Baccalaureate (IB): Think of this as the international version of AP.
- College-Level: If you’ve taken any college courses while still in high school, this is where you list them.
The Common App “Academic Subject” Section: Don’t Be a Slacker
Now, you might be thinking, “Why do they even need this information? I’m a human being, not a spreadsheet!” Trust me, it’s not about turning you into a data point. Colleges use this information to get a deeper understanding of your academic background. They want to see if you’ve challenged yourself, explored different subjects, and developed a solid foundation of knowledge. They’re trying to figure out if you’re ready for the rigors of college-level work.
Here’s the lowdown:
- Don’t skip out on this section: It’s not optional.
- Be truthful: No one wants to catch you in a lie.
- Be thorough: Don’t just list your favorite subjects. Include everything you’ve taken, even if you hated it.
- Highlight your strengths: If you’ve taken a lot of challenging courses, make sure to showcase them.
Think of the Common App “Academic Subject” Section as a Story
The “Academic Subject” section isn’t just a list – it’s your chance to tell a story. It tells a story about your intellectual curiosity, your passion for learning, and your willingness to embrace challenges. So, don’t just list your courses like a robot. Show some personality, showcase your interests, and let your academic journey shine.
The Common App “Academic Subject” Section: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes you might want to avoid:
- Not including all your courses: Think of it as a complete academic resume. Include everything, even if you’re not proud of it.
- Not listing courses in the correct order: This is where your internal organization comes into play. List your courses chronologically, starting with freshman year.
- Not being specific enough: “Math” is not a specific subject. Be detailed, like “Algebra I,” “AP Calculus,” etc.
- Not providing accurate information: Honesty is the best policy, even in college applications.
The Common App “Academic Subject” Section: A Final Word
The Common App “Academic Subject” section can be a bit of a beast, but with a little effort and attention to detail, you can make it work for you. Remember, it’s not just about your grades, it’s about showcasing your academic journey and demonstrating your readiness for college. So, get to work, and don’t be afraid to let your academic personality shine.
Need some help navigating the Common App wilderness? If you need further help with the Common App, or any other college application questions, connect with us at JobLoving! We’re here to help you conquer the college application process and land your dream school.