Caltech Application

[reuben_tate]

So yeah, I'm applying to Caltech right now. Right now I am trying to make a decision. I like to create Flash games during my free time and I also mentioned a little bit about how I like to program in one of my essays. Would it be a good idea to put a link to Flash games I developed in the additional information section of the common app? I thought it would be a good idea since it would visually show my passion for programming. So what do guys think? Should a send a link or not?

[Oni-Paranoia]

I think the line between not enough information and too much information can be really wide in most applications so I'd say throw it in. That way if they're really interested, they have something to go off of.

[Izzy]

You should just attach a resume that just has bullet points of your technical skills. You don't need to explain anything in an application. If the employer thinks that your skills are what they want they will interview you and thats the time to explain in more detail about what you can do.

They will ask you questions and you answer them etc.. Just make sure not to exaggerate or make stuff up because it will never work in the end.

[reuben_tate]

Originally Posted by Izzy

If the employer

Just to clear things up, I'm applying to a college, not for a job position. But I guess there are some similarities between applying to both...

[bender5]

One of the things that got me accepted into a lot of the film schools that I applied to was including a short film that I helped write/edit.

Anything you can include can and will help you stand out

[Izzy]

Oh, my bad. I guess you don't use a resume to apply to a college. I'm assuming you are writing some kind of paper for the application. In that case you should probably go ahead and explain the kinds of technology you've used etc..

Throw in your aspirations and what you hope to achieve in the future and all that stuff.

[iironiic]

If I'm not mistaken, the Common App does ask you to list your extricurricular activities and such. I would only include it in your essay if there is more significance than the thrill of programming. Maybe it's just a personal preference, but I like to use the essay to write about something I have learned based on my experiences in the past, and apply it to make a world a better place.

[Wineandbread]

I certainly don't think it would hurt to include them, assuming you don't think they are pieces of ****

Go for it mang

[OneHandNow]

In the supplements section or on CalTech's website, there should be instructions on sending supplements. For Yale & Stanford, supplements have to be mailed in physically (if not digitally..) so if it's just a link, you should put a link to it in the extra information section by making a brand NEW copy of your current Common Application.

I myself have 4 different copes of the Common Application, 3 for 3 schools that I sent supplements to (different ones), and 1 for schools that I decided NOT to extra supplements to.

So send that link - if you're proud of your work, CalTech would probably like it.

[infinity.]

There's a rule of thumb for unrequited supplemental info and docs, such as the music and athletic supplements for the common app. You should not submit either unless your abilities in a field are outstanding. Those that submit above par, but less than amazing auditions are actual hurt from an admissions stand point for just showing a hobby and not a passion.

In your case, if your games show your ability to program and make you look good then submit them. If they are simply to show your interest, don't.

[Reincarnate]

Submit it

[leonid]

Go for it, though I don't think they will have enough time to click and look through those attached programs from each and every applicant.

[Reincarnate]

They'll give it 10-15 seconds of view just to get a rough idea

[reuben_tate]

Thanks everyone for your opinions! Just to let everyone know, I sent them a link in the "Additional Section" with a brief explanation.

Originally Posted by Reincarnate

Submit it

I like your boldness!