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Hey all, just a quick question. I'm really interested in math and science (namely physics). Unfortunately, my school doesn't really offer many (or, rather, any) scientific/mathematical ECs. So, I created various different options (started math team -amc/aime, harvard-mit, etc, became calc TA, offered tutoring, and am in the process of trying to bring the physics bowl competition to my school this year (was also nominated to take the qualifying exam for the physics team). I also advanced a year in science (skipped AP physics C Mechanics class - still plan on taking both parts of the C exam this year, though) and math; taking Quantum Mechanics, Linear Algebra, Multivariable Calc (all independent studies by myself with various supervisors), and, next semester, Differential equations at Johns Hopkins.

The question that I have is: is Harvard going to hold the fact that I'm not an Intel finalist, international competitor, etc. against me? I honestly would have tried for such things had I even known about them. But until I discovered this site, the olympiads in general were complete mysteries.

I don't know, I guess I'm just worrying that Harvard might frown on the fact that I'm a physics/math major taking these advanced courses but haven't really garnered any national/international distinction like ISEF/olympiads.

Oh well.

Cheers.

By Coureur (Coureur) on Thursday, September 23, 2004 - 10:45 pm: Edit

Being an Intel finalist or Math Olympiad champ would certainly help of course, but it is by no means a requirement. Harvard admits many math and science concentrators who have not won these awards. Just make the most of what you've got.