The mention of “Harvard University” brings to mind any of a number of thoughts, but here are two which are common. First, the bulwark of a congregation of intellectuals- or second, prestige with a capital P. While I will totally agree with number two, I will say number one with a lot of misgivings. Allow me to give you a “crash course” on the world of Harvard University.
Historical Bits on Harvard University
It was in 1636 when a college was put up at Cambridge, thanks to the Great and General Court of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, and a few years later, this college was named for the first benefactor (John Harvard). In the beginning, they lacked the endowments, simply surviving on individuals’ donations. It slowly gained a lot of autonomy, and in 1780, became a chartered university.
In 1979, Harvard University brought forth their Core curriculm- and under this, pupils were mandated to have courses (equal of one academic year) in every one of 5 fields: history, literature/arts, social analysis courses, science and foreign cultures. The students of Harvard University during that era also had to show skills in math and writing. This core curriculum underwent a makeover after more than two decades. In 2007, the faculty committee suggested that this curriculum be widened to concentrate more on societal issues and science.
Student Life at Harvard University
Indeed, Cambridge is a costly place, but the upside is that it has many bars, dining places and bookshops. Harvard University’s campus is actually wooded, and it lends a lot of (both) serenity and class. In the main, the socialization is light, and this is principally due to the absence of fraternities and sororities. However, there are no less than 300 student organizations at Harvard University. The sports prowess of Harvard University may not be a recognized thing, but their Division 1 program is very big.
Admission Policies for Harvard University
# Application form: one could be downloaded, and online application is very doable. If you feel that money would be a crucial issue, don’t worry- financial aid from Harvard University could be requested.
# Fees: the application fee is actually less than 100$, and it could be paid online if you wish. Take note, if it is a money order, attach it to the application forms.
# Score profiles from ACT or SAT I, plus 3 SAT II tests.
# Mid-year report or secondary school report: they should be accomplished by your adviser or school counselors.
# Teacher evaluations: they should have ample knowledge of both your character and academic performance. Teachers who have been your teachers in the last two years would be best.
# Personal Statement or sample college admission essay: this would be an avenue where the admissions officers could get a serious look into your writing prowess, character (both flaws and strengths), and values.
Photo Credit : Yokado
Princeton University has always attempted (and managed) to serve as a research university per excellence and also one of the best undergrad colleges not only in the country, but on the world map. Princeton University gives its members with both academic and non-academic resources. It prepares its students for leadership positions in differing industries. The informal motto of the university: ‘Princeton in the Nation’s Service and in the Service of All Nations’ (take note of the ‘informal’).
History of Princeton University
It was chartered in 1746 as “College of New Jersey”- and this name they held for more than a century. College of New Jersey then relocated to Princeton sometime in the middle of the 18th century.
It was in 1896 when they attained the status for “University”. It was then renamed to Princeton University, in tribute to the place’s communities.
Admission competition in Princeton University is Fierce
“Fierce” is an adjective that you may not like, but it is the best I could come up with. The admission for Princeton University is very fierce, and Atlantic Monthly says: after MIT- it is the most particular college in the country.
The admission policy for Princeton University is termed as “need blind”, and this means- any student could be accepted based on merits per se, whether or not he could pay for the tuition costs.
Not like other universities, Princeton University just shoulders the shortfall if the family could not give it. The Princeton University became the first to come up with their “No Loan” policy, way back in 2001. Still, notwithstanding these policies, the student body as a whole is considered as more conservative. It has been noted that majority of their students supported the Democrats in elections (presidential).
Societies and Alumni of Princeton University
Princeton University has one of the globe’s best debating societies- American Whig-Cliosophic Society, and this is a member of American Parliamentary Debating Association.
Let me give you some (few is the right term) of the most notable alumni of Princeton University (politics:) Aaron Burr (VP of the USA), Bill Frist (Senate Majority Leader), Eliot Spitzer (NY Atty General), Adlai Stevenson (former governor), Woodrow Wilson (President of the US), James Baker (Secretary of State), and Frank Carlucci (Sec of State).
What the Admissions Officers of the Princeton University are Looking For
Princeton University has a lot of admission requirements, but one of the fundamental would be the personal statement, or better known as the sample college admission essay. The admission board’s members of Princeton University, what exactly do they want? They want you to tell them via the admission essays, what your skills, interests and involvements are. They want you to put down what you really value in life.
Princeton University would mandate that you do two essays. It would be your best chance to showcase your best form of writing on one hand. On the other hand, to bring out ideas in your own elaborations.
A word to the wise, if you think it would be so easy to cut and paste essays from the Net- think again. The admissions officers of Princeton University could suddenly revoke any admission if they discover that the essays submitted were from plagiarism methods.
Photo Credit : Yakinodi
