Quick question - I'm applying to Columbia and I saw that they have these list questions as part of their application, asking you to list books you've read, performances you've attended, etc. Does anyone have some examples of how they answered these list questions or any general advice on how to approach them?
Certainly! The Columbia list questions are a unique and fun way to showcase your personal interests, intellectual pursuits, and cultural exposure. Here's some advice on how to approach them:
1. Be genuine: Make sure that the books, performances, or cultural events you list truly reflect your interests and experiences. Don't list titles or events just because they might sound impressive. Authenticity is more valuable.
2. Variety: Showcase a range of interests, genres, or experiences. For example, if you're an avid reader, include a mix of fiction, non-fiction, classics, contemporary works, and books related to your academic interests.
3. Don't worry about annotating or detailing: Generally, you'll only provide the title and, if applicable, the author or creator, without additional descriptions or explanations. They’re looking for a snapshot of your interests, not analysis of them.
4. Consider themes: If you've read books or attended events that have a common theme—like diversity, social justice, or leadership—this list can be a great way to highlight your passions and give insight into topics that matter to you.
Remember, there's no right or wrong way to answer these questions as long as you're genuine and thoughtful about your selections. Let your personality shine through, and allow the admissions team to get a sense of who you are beyond your academic achievements. And if you want more detailed advice on how to craft an ideal list for Columbia, you can check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down all of Columbia's supplemental essay prompts, including this one: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-columbia-university-essays/.
Good luck!
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