Should You Brag About That Rensselaer Medal on Your Common App?
You’ve got the Rensselaer Medal. You’re a math and science whizz, a shining beacon of academic excellence, and probably the envy of your less-gifted peers. You’re practically guaranteed a hefty scholarship at RPI, a place where geeks thrive and labs are filled with the sweet scent of innovation. So, should you plaster that medal all over your Common App like a shiny, gold-plated badge of honor?
Well, buckle up, because the answer, my friend, is a resounding maybe.
The Common App Honors Section: A Land of Opportunities and Awkward Silence
Let’s talk about the Common App Honors section. It’s a bit like a curated museum of your academic achievements, a showcase for your “bragging rights” (but in a polite, college-application-appropriate way). It’s a place where you can flaunt those coveted awards, like the National Merit Scholarship or the Presidential Volunteer Service Award. You know, the kind of awards that make your parents beam with pride and your little brother grumble about how unfair life is.
But with the Honors section, you’ve got to be selective. It’s not a free-for-all where you can list every single accolade you’ve ever received. Remember, you only have five slots, and those slots are precious real estate.
The Rensselaer Medal: A Golden Ticket or a One-Way Trip to “Meh”?
So, where does the Rensselaer Medal fit into this prestigious puzzle? It’s a tricky situation. On one hand, it’s a significant achievement, a testament to your prowess in math and science. It screams “I’m a brilliant mind, and RPI is my destiny!” But on the other hand, it’s specifically tied to RPI.
Think of it this way: If you’re applying to MIT, bragging about your RPI Medal might be like showing up to a fancy dinner party in your pajamas. It’s not a complete disaster, but it’s definitely not the best look.
The Delicate Art of Subtle Bragging
So, what’s a brilliant young mind to do?
Here’s the golden rule: If you’re applying to RPI, absolutely mention the Rensselaer Medal! It’s a scholarship opportunity worth $40,000 per year. That’s like a free car, a year-long Netflix subscription, and a lifetime supply of pizza. Why wouldn’t you mention it? Plus, it shows your commitment to RPI, which is a good thing, especially if you’re applying for specific programs.
But, if you’re applying to other schools, tread carefully. You don’t want to give the impression that you’re only interested in RPI, even if you are.
Here’s a few strategies for navigating this tricky terrain:
- Use the Honors section sparingly: Remember, you only have five slots. If you’re applying to a school that focuses heavily on science and math, you might be able to squeeze in the Rensselaer Medal. But, if you’re applying to a school with a more diverse academic focus, it might be better to leave it out and highlight other achievements.
- Don’t shy away from other awards: Don’t let the Rensselaer Medal overshadow other accomplishments. The Honors section is also a great place to showcase other awards and accolades related to your academic interests.
- Highlight your passion: Instead of focusing solely on the award itself, use the Honors section to highlight your passion for math and science. Talk about the projects you’ve worked on, the clubs you’ve joined, and the research you’ve done. This will give the admissions officers a better understanding of your interests and your potential as a student.
A Final Word of Wisdom (and a Little Humor)
Remember, the Common App is your chance to showcase your academic prowess, your personality, and your unique strengths. Don’t be afraid to show off your achievements, but also be mindful of the context. Use your five precious Honors slots wisely, and don’t let the Rensselaer Medal overshadow your other accomplishments.
And remember, even if you decide to leave it off your Common App, you can always talk about the Rensselaer Medal during your interview. Just be prepared to answer the question: “So, tell me about this Rensselaer Medal…”
It’s a great conversation starter, and a perfect opportunity to showcase your passion for math, science, and possibly, a certain prestigious engineering school.
If you need further help, answer or research resources about whether you should mention the Rensselaer Medal on your Common App, feel free to connect with us at the JobLoving community. We’re here to help you navigate the confusing world of college applications, one medal at a time.