Undergraduate / "discussions about anything from Plato to quantum physics" - Columbia Supplement [6]

I think the beginning is a bit much. Bringing up "Asian community," comes off as an unnecessary generalization.

Also, I don't think this piece shows why you're a true fit for Columbia. You mention Columbia's core curriculum, but in what way does is that curriculum truly different from any other colleges program? Don't liberal arts colleges do the same? Teach you an array of subjects to make you well-rounded? I think you can improve if you talk about something more distinctive about Columbia.

Sorry if this comes off as being harsh. Just my opinion.

Undergraduate / "the Danish Prince and the son of a murdered father" - Hamlet-Primary Advisor-CMC [5]

As a student of CMC, I can say that this is an ideal essay for admissions. CMC is looking for someone with ambition and the willingness to put oneself out there, even if it means failure. I think your essay hits the nail in proving that point, however, I think you need to work a little more though. You make great historic points, however, the parts where you condemn Hamlet aren't as strong as they can be. You need to fully sell yourself as an ambitious and engaging person.