Is it better if I gear my essay explicitly towards why I wanted to study engineering?

Hey! First time using essay forum and was wondering if anyone could tell me whether it would be better if the common application essay we write is about what major we intend to study or does it not matter?

For example, if I want to study engineering, is it better if I gear my essay towards why I wanted to study engineering, or can it just be about anything? Thank you very much in advance! =)

Since many people change majors, it would be better to write about something engaging, rather than an essay about your major. It could be anything, as long as it captures their attention. They look for originality and sincerity most.

Thank you! =))

well, if engineering truly reflects who you are, write about it! But don't feel obliged to cover your major.

Many college supplements will ask you for it anyways.

btw, if you haven't started the essay, start NOW!! Submitting late WILL jeopardize your chances of getting in.

This is only my opinion, but I have to say... If I was an admissions officer, I would not have the heart to deny admission to someone who had a clear plan that she was determined to follow. Therefore, I think the essay should be about your intended field of study, because you are so passionate about this subject that you cannot help writing about it.

I wouldn't go this far, they deny plenty of clear minded students and don't feel bad about it at all haha. but you are DEFINITELY right in that admins prefer students with clear plans (and realistic) about their future.

Yep, they certainly do deny a lot of clear headed students. And then again, plenty of times they admit students who are not-so-serious. College is a business, after all.

This point about having a clear plan, though... I think that is indeed an important part of the psychology of admissions.

haha definitely.


I agree with this as well, but I do point out that a clear plan...could be faked/misleading. For example, a student could say that want to go do business and have very detailed plans, but he/she could have never taken a business class, and don't know anything about it.

What troubles me is determining my major. I think I know what I'll do, yet haven't had any thorough training in that discipline. Good thing that we're not bounded by our declaration of major!