college essay about violin

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Read the College Essay That Got Kwasi Enin Into All 8 Ivy League Schools

Last time a batch of college admissions essays leaked online , from Columbia University, everyone was embarrassed, mostly because they were forced to remember their own adolescent humblebrags disguised as thesaurus-fueled philosophizing. But it’s hard to feel bad for Kwasi Enin, the 17-year-old Long Island student who was accepted to every Ivy League school , and whose own essay is now public, thanks to the New York Post . It is very much a college essay — flowery language, Big Ideas, lessons learned — but it also worked.

Enin writes about his love of music — he plays violin, bass, and has a good voice, too — stretching the refined extracurricular into a story about leadership, community, and bringing joy to the world by singing and dancing in a production of Guys and Dolls . “Music has become the spark of my intellectual curiosity,” he writes. “I directly developed my capacity to think creatively around problems due to the infinite possibilities in music.” (Don’t be jealous.)

“ The self-guided journey known as music in my life excites my mind every day,” Enin concludes neatly in his fifth paragraph. “My heart sings every day because the journey is already wonderful.” It’s well organized (by the numbers) and touching (sappy) — the guy, along with his 2,250 SAT score, is obviously going places. But the question remains: Why do we make kids do this to themselves?

Kwasi Enin's college essay

school daze

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GradeSaver provides access to 2364 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11009 literature essays, 2775 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.

Stanford University

Meaningful activity: violin veda tsoi, give a meaningful activity.

I love to play the violin, but I hate to practice it. I dislike what I consider to be the mundane but difficult process of going over each passage or line individually, trying to make each note perfect while still developing the piece as a whole. Once I have learned my piece, however, my work is rewarded as I become comfortable with the music I once struggled to learn and perfect. The notes flow out of my fingers, without thought, almost without effort. They become my voice, and I sing out of my delicate wood instrument. I not only love the music that I produce through my violin, but I also love my violin itself. My violin represents memories. It reflects the pacts my brother and I formed promising each other that we would not tell mom that neither of us practiced that day. It symbolizes my violin performance group in Chicago as we receive a standing ovation from seven hundred music teachers from around the country. Violin has been an integral part of my life since I began playing at age three. The music I produce with my violin echoes my life, changing as I change and maturing as I grow. My frustration, sorrow, felicity, ennui, and humor can all be heard as I play. Truly, my violin has become an extension of me.

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Violin College Essays Samples For Students

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In 1724, Johann Sebastian Bach composed a widely acclaimed cantata for Christmas day celebrations. It contained a narrative of words that praised Jesus Christ, and was supported by instrumentals and vocal codes. The cantata is a follow up on the famous hymn by Martin Luther, ‘Praise is to you, Jesus Christ ‘, and that was composed in 1524. The composition was inspired from readings that are located in the bible such as the Gospel of Luke, the book of Isaiah and Titus, which contained readings about the birth and salvation of Jesus Christ.

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“The Four Seasons” by Antonio Lucio Vivaldi is one the most remarkable masterpieces of the world music history. It is available for listening on almost every musical website, for ex. you can find it at http://magnatune.com/all/abaroque-seasons_128.mp3 A unique representative of Italian art, Vivaldi composed them in 1723.

“The Four Seasons” are considered to be one of the best artworks in Baroque music epoch which lasted from 1600 to 1750. First published in Amsterdam in 1725, they were a part of Opus 8, entitled “The Contest between Harmony and Invention”.

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Identity refers to the state of maintaining one’s character under different conditions. Identity therefore relates to social situations such as gender, color, class, and community. In African American literature, identity can be experienced in social circumstances that are largely discriminatory. Discriminatory aspects that affect the blacks largely relate to oppression. This aspect molds the manner in which African Americans are confronted with dilemmas regarding their place within the white-dominated society. Ideally, the reality of the blacks cannot be separated in the American society because color provides an inherent phenomenon of identity that manifest in different races.

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Ancient music had very distinct styles, musical instruments and elements were easily distinguishable as the songs progressed. The following is an analysis of five songs in terms of the style, tempo, musical elements and form.

- Analysis of the song “Crazy Blues” by Mamie Smith and her Jazz group (Recorded August 10 1920) (cfa.arizona.edu)

Several musical instruments as were use in the song. The sound of a trombone comes first then that of a clarinet and violin follow in unison. The sounds produced by these instruments produce a very distinct tune. When the Mamie Smith sings, several elements of music can be noted these are timbre, harmony, pitch and rhythm.

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I am sure that in order to become successful in any professional field it is necessary to identify clear goals and find the best place to realize them. I am happy that I understood this simple truth in time to do everything possible to make my dreams come true. I would like to describe the way my professional goals were formed and how I understood that Georgetown is the best place for me to do it.

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I bet that Coldplay’s “Viva la Vida” gives you shivers, although you cannot truly tell what specifically transposes you in another world. It is that “I used to” that generates a melancholic feeling in Coldplay’s “Viva la Vida”. The song is mostly set in a glorious past, as it compulsively dominating the thoughts in the present. Further in this article I aim to decompose this song, examining the strength of its lyrics, the appeal to its listeners, the instrumental part and the clarity of the speech that resides from the song.

Supporting Paragraphs

The significance of baroque music in essay, relevance to the los angeles baroque performers.

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Class of 2007

These essays are in addition to similar collections from the Class of 2026 , Class of 2022 , Class of 2018 , and Class of 2012 .

Caroline O’Shea

Baltimore, md..

Writing a college essay is intimidating business. Just coming up with an idea, let alone writing about it, is a challenge. So, I asked for help. Mom said, “Write about how you are like each of your cats!” While I found this idea to be...well, cute...I worried that all this would say about me is that I like to eat and sleep in patches of sun. Dad said, “Write about your mental struggles after your mother and I got divorced.” While this idea was dramatic, and perhaps telling, I decided that it ran the risk of making me appear morose, which I am not, or just plain boring. Various friends told me to “be funny” or to write about a moment in my life that was particularly poignant.

All these ideas for topics were fine. I could easily have written them. But something was bothering me. I’ve always been told that the purpose of such an essay is to describe yourself to the readers, to tell them something about yourself that nothing else could. None of these topics were ones I felt could adequately explain me to a stranger in several hundred words or fewer. The root of the problem is this — at this stage in my life, I am not quite sure how to describe myself.

In middle school, or even freshman year in high school, I could have easily described myself to anyone, because I was pretty certain about who I was. I was an Irish-Italian Catholic. I was liberal. I hung out with school-focused, overachiever types. I disliked jocks and people who talked about clothes too much. I laughed at girls who liked teen idols or TV shows that I thought were stupid. I thought my parents were pretty much perfect. My favorite book was Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey. I was sure I wanted to be a vet when I grew up. My life was black-and-white, this-or-that, yes-or-no. It was easy.

Some things haven’t changed since then, despite how much I seem to have changed. I’m still an Irish-Italian Catholic and a bleeding heart liberal, though my beliefs are no longer based blindly on what those things are supposed to mean. Yes, many of my friends are still the “overachiever types,” and I still value their academic intelligence, as well as my own, very much. The difference is that I no longer see “intelligence” as a single entity. I have come to respect a person’s ability to make friends, to make beautiful art or music, or to simply be a thoughtful and caring person just as much as I respect the classes they take or the kinds of books they read. Most important though, I have come to see and respect those more meaningful traits in myself.

I’m no longer sure what my favorite book is. When asked, I usually name at least 10, ranging from science fiction to Existentialist philosophy to Southern Gothic novellas. I’ve come to see my parents as people, not as icons, and have learned from both their good and bad qualities. I have no plan as to what I want to do when I grow up — only the vague idea that I want to be involved in politics, and maybe try to change the world a little bit while I’m at it.

I’ve learned that I am also many things that are not so obvious. I am a girl who sits on her back porch at midnight thinking about conflicts between determinism and free will, but I am also a girl who watches Buffy the Vampire Slayer religiously and can quote it word for word. I love my mother’s pumpkin pie, talking late at night to friends about things that we’d never reveal during the daylight, and driving with the sunroof open and the stereo turned up.

These things are all a part of me, but not the whole story. In fact, they are all things that other people could rattle off about me — things they might even suggest that I write an essay about. This essay, however, is uniquely me, just as I intend my life to be.

The past four years have been an experience in the ever-clichéd “self-discovery,” and I suspect the next four will be as well. While I feel I know more about myself now than I ever have before, I recognize that there is a lot more there that I don't know. I’m not in a rush, though. I’ve only lived for 17 years. I have the rest of my life to figure out who I am and what I’m here for — and when I do, I’ll write you an essay.

New Canaan, Conn.

“You can handle it, Matt,” said Mr. Wolf, my fourth-grade band teacher, as he lifted the heavy tuba and put it into my arms. I was surprised because I had asked for the trumpet or the saxophone as my band instrument, not the tuba. I knew Mr. Wolf meant that I was the only one who could handle the tuba. And he was right. In fourth grade, I was a foot taller and 50 pounds heavier than any of my classmates. While other students eventually played the trumpet and sax solos I would like to have tried, I dutifully set the band’s tempo with my tuba and hoped that someday we’d play a song with a tuba solo. Never happened.

Now I’m 6'3" and weigh 240 pounds. Since freshman year, my football coach has had only one place for me: the line. I was never offered the flashy positions of running back or quarterback. I had to be where size mattered.

Somehow my size has precluded any solo performances in music or sports. In fact, the only time a tuba player or a lineman gets noticed is when he screws up. But I’m philosophical about this lack of recognition because size has its compensations.

For instance, I had always worried as a child when my parents left me home alone. I thought that burglars might break into the house. Then, when I was in sixth grade, I realized that I was bigger than most of the burglars I might have to confront, so I stopped worrying about it. The burglars must have felt the same way, because none of them ever broke in.

In school, particularly middle school, I encountered my classmates’ stereotypes of what it meant to be the big kid: that I was either an uncoordinated simpleton or a nasty “tough guy.” I didn’t feel that I belonged in either category, so I worked hard to correct their expectations.

To counter the image of the big, clumsy, goofy kid that everyone laughs at, but not to his face, I resolved to become athletic and even graceful. I made sure that I played well in all the sports I went out for, even those where size was not a factor, like baseball. I also became a part of a ballroom dance class and followed it throughout high school, long after my friends had dropped out. At the annual dance performance, the members of my football team would look on in amazement from the audience as I danced waltzes, fox trots and tangos — even Russian folk dances with knee kicks. Perhaps I overcompensated a bit.

Playing off the “tough guy” stereotype, I became a bodyguard for classmates who would beg me to stand with them so they wouldn't be picked on by a bully or gang of boys. I happily agreed to accept this role.

The most peculiar thing I’ve encountered about being big is when someone wants me to be even bigger — like one of my football coaches who wants me to put on another 40 pounds. “Get in touch with the fatness that’s inside of you wanting to get out,” he said. I feel that I’m the perfect size, and even if my build could support more weight, I’m not going to do it.

One morning in seventh grade, I realized that I was taller than my brother who was two years older. My brother was so disturbed by this great milestone in our relationship that he refused to admit I was taller for another two years. In my freshman year of high school, my father discovered that I was taller than he was. Unlike my older brother’s reaction, my father was delighted. He was my greatest fan, and privately coached me in all the sports I played, especially baseball.

My father, Joseph Coppo, lost his life on September 11, 2001, in the attack on the World Trade Center. It has been a rough 16 months, but his death has given me a new perspective on my size. Two days before he died, my father came into my room as I was getting into bed. We had a long, somewhat emotional, talk, and he told me God had given me a great gift and that I should use it to my full potential. That advice he gave me, which I had taken for granted at the time, now comes back so vividly in my memory.

My father told me that I should be disciplined, take pride in myself, stand up straight and hold my head up high. Attending his funeral and the many memorial services for the 9/11 victims, I was aware that my height made me stand out at these gatherings. As I walked down the aisle at the end of his service, I realized that everyone was looking straight at me. It was one of the hardest things I will ever have to do. I tried to appear dignified and brave in the hope that my calm, tall presence would comfort my family and friends and give them the courage to make it through.

Looking forward, I know that my size will enable me to accomplish many positive things, whether in college, in a career or in just helping others. Everyday I think of the words my father spoke to me, and I pray that I’ll “grow” to be half the man he was.

Meagan Spooner

Alexandria, va..

Perhaps it wasn’t wise to chew and swallow a handful of sand the day I was given my first sandbox, but it seemed like a good idea at the time. My mother told me before she let me outside to play that I was not to eat it. Having played in the sand at my preschool, I couldn’t imagine then why anyone would want to put the gritty stuff in one’s mouth. So, impatient to go out to play, I just nodded rather than question her cautionary statement. I tottered barefoot up the wooden steps to the backyard and saw for the first time the object that would occupy so much of my time in the weeks to come.

It lay in the partial shade of a large oak tree, squat and green and shaped like a turtle. As I struggled with the heavy, awkward plastic cover, only the promise of day after glorious day outside in the dappled light kept me from dropping the cover and moving on to less difficult pastimes. Perseverance paid off, however, and as soon as the lid slid the rest of the way off, I knew my effort had been worth it.

The sand was beautiful and pristine, composed of white, sparkling crystals that shone like snow, or even sugar. It was free of all the nasty surprises one finds in a preschool’s sandbox: no pebbles, sand-encrusted bits of candy or broken-off arms from forgotten G.I. Joe soldiers, abandoned heartlessly during their desert reconnaissance missions.

No, this sand was breathtaking and exquisite. For a reason that I still don’t quite understand, my mother’s cautionary tones came floating back to me on the summer breeze as I stepped into the box and happily wriggled my grass-stained toes in the glorious white expanse. Chewing on a lock of hair, I contemplated my dilemma. And certainly it was a dilemma, for if my mother had taken such pains to forbid me to eat this fascinating material, there had to be some reason for me to want to taste it in the first place.

Perhaps it was a precocious interest in science, in experimenting and finding my own answers, that led me to my final decision on the matter. It may have been the beginning of the avid curiosity about the world around me that has stuck with me even today, or a budding interest in questioning the laws and boundaries of society. It may have even simply been a rebellious desire to be bad, to do something that I knew I shouldn’t do.

Whatever the reason, my decision came to me after only a moment’s hesitation.

So I curled my fingers around a handful, delighting in the smooth feel of the crystals slipping between them, and lifted it to my mouth. It was delicious — the guilty taste of being bad, I mean, of discovering new sensations and finding answers, of stepping outside the accepted rules of our anti-sand-consumption society; not the sand. The sand was, to be honest, rather disappointing.

J.P. Maloney

Buffalo, n.y..

I was rushing to feed the hissing baby owl when ... splat! The dish of quartered mice fell from my hands, its gooey contents scattering all over the floor of the infirmary. I grabbed a bottle of disinfectant and some paper towels, and fell to my knees to clean up the mess.

Two weeks prior, I had volunteered to raise three newborn American barn owls. When the director of a local wildlife rehabilitation center first approached me and asked if I would be interested in raising “the babies,” as the incoming owls were referred to, I was overjoyed! Twelve years earlier, the rehab center had received a pair of barn owls, and since then more than 100 of them have been bred and released. Thoughts poured through my head of hours happily spent raising these babies and working with them until they were fully grown. Tossing them up into the sky where they would begin their lives anew in the wild would be so incredibly rewarding. I had released countless “rehabbed” animals prior to this, but I had never experienced the privilege of releasing an owl that I had raised. As I pulled the owls from the nest — a precautionary measure in case the parents decide to eat — I was ecstatic; I felt that I was really making a difference helping New York State’s most endangered raptor make a comeback.

However, I had assumed incorrectly that we were going to release all of them. In fact, two of the owls were to be released, but the third owl was to be imprinted and used as an educational animal. For the center to keep one owl when his two siblings were going to be freed seemed cruel, and this angered me. Sensing my anger, our director suggested that before I condemn the plan for this owl, I should at least go out and help with the educational assignment, to see what is accomplished. While still ready to denounce this plan as a horrible use of an owl, I reluctantly agreed to go.

It was on this first educational assignment that I realized how much could be accomplished through an animal education program — more, in some cases, than the aggregate efforts of all of the rehabilitators. I found that I had been naive in my assumption that most people knew as much about wildlife as I did, and that they shared my respect for animals. The children at the school where I spoke had never seen the owls or the opossum that I showed them, though both were common inhabitants of our area. Many of them had never even heard of an ocelot. They were full of questions and eager to know more. As my hour-long presentation concluded, I found my mind wandering, revisiting the time when I was 7-years-old, sitting cross-legged on the floor at my elementary school, enraptured by my first owl. It was then that I realized that I was once a “city boy” who thought wild animals only lived in Africa. I had always loved animals, but when the rehab center volunteers visited my school, they shared with me knowledge that has changed the way I experience the outdoors, and consequently has had a marked influence on paths — both literally and figuratively — that I have chosen.

Thus, after 10 years I have come full circle; now I am the teacher, and in front of me are rooms full of 6- and 7-year-olds who, with the “help” of the owls, are learning to view nature in a whole new light. While I am not “saving the world,” I am helping safeguard the owl’s future. Furthermore, I am promoting a deeper environmental consciousness among the people that I teach, while at the same time exposing them to something that I love.

That afternoon, I returned from the educational assignment with a new-found sense of purpose and happily commenced the task at hand É feeding little pieces of mice to Athena, our newest educational ambassador.

Chase Garbarino

Duxbury, mass..

As I slunk into my junior year AP English class, I avoided making eye contact with my teacher, Dr. Heitzman. With the brim of my baseball cap pulled down to hide my face, my first priority was to find a nice hiding spot in the back of the room. It was the first week of school, and Dr. Heitzman was handing back our essays on our summer reading assignment. I had become quite accustomed to dealing with teachers who had “had the pleasure of teaching” my ever-so-talented, brilliant, saintly, near-perfect, God-like (in fact, she might even be in the Rolodex at the White House and Vatican) sister, Leslie. Dr. Heitzman had already made the connection that I was “Leslie’s brother” and assured me that she only expected half the excellence that Leslie demonstrated and that would still guarantee me a solid A.

As I was attempting to disappear into my seat, Dr. Heitzman announced to the class that a rare occurrence had taken place; someone’s essay had earned an A+. Knowing it could not be mine, I slouched even further into my chair. Dr. Heitzman continued, “Sorry to disappoint the female population in the class, but this time the best essay was written by a boy.” At first this meant nothing to me. However, since I was also taking AP Probability and Statistics and I realized there were only three males in the class, statistically I concluded that I had a 33 1/3 percent chance of being that guy. I sat up straight and lifted the brim of my hat above my eyes. Watching her intently, I suddenly found myself praying that her panning eyes would find me in the back of the room. As she got out of her seat and came toward my desk, my pulse quickened, and I almost fell out of my chair. She handed me my essay, requesting that I read it to the rest of the class.

I was so shocked that I almost tripped on my way up to the front of the room and mispronounced my own name when I began reading. Then as I began noticing the comments on the paper, they simply read, “HAHAHAHA.” It was clear she thought my essay was funny. “Wait a minute É I am pretty darn funny,” it dawned on me. I began reading about how The Jungle had almost convinced me, a confirmed carnivore, to join my vegetarian sister in her devotion to soy products. Surprisingly, the normally staid Dr. Heitzman began to crack up laughing. The more she laughed, the more I tried to be funny. It was at that point that I knew that I was going to try to make Dr. Heitzman laugh at everything that I did all year.

I have never worked so hard to impress a teacher. Not only would I make my essays funny, but I extended my humor to journal entries, my vocabulary definitions, my poetic analyses, my daily reports and my verbal responses. I found myself running to class sometimes to be the first in line to grab a seat in the front row so I could be there to look Dr. Heitzman in the eye. My final project of the year best demonstrates how far I went to get a laugh out of Dr. Heitzman. Each student in the class was to put on a “how to” demonstration of anything they wanted, so I decided to teach everyone how to properly apply makeup. (OK, it was a dare.) I am a basketball and soccer player, your typical “jock,” so I took everyone by surprise with my project. As I began applying sparkly blue eye shadow, the better to bring out my blue eyes, I looked out into the faces of my classmates and saw a mixture of disbelief and horror. But it was worth it because Dr. Heitzman was clutching the desk to keep from falling to the floor with laughter. (And I won the bet.) It was that bet that capped off a year that changed me considerably — a year in which a “math guy” discovered he liked to write and to read good literature and that English was his favorite class.

If only every student were lucky enough to have a Dr. Heitzman. If only every person were lucky enough to know someone who pushed, motivated, encouraged, rewarded, shaped and inspired them É and laughed. That year I did not follow in the footsteps of my sister. That year I was Chase Garbarino, Dr. Heitzman's funniest student ever.

Emily Hamlin

Pennington, n.j..

For the past 10 years, my dad and I have attended the same school — he as an administrator and I as a student. While my friends enjoyed the escape from parents that school provided, I could count on my dad taking me to school, bumping into him regularly during the day and riding home with him each and every afternoon. It’s been interesting. Our relationship, in and out of school, has been totally unpredictable.

When I was younger, all that my dad said was doctrine and anything he did I, naturally, copied. We played rocket ship games in the pool, stayed up too late reading bedtime stories and ran through the corn mazes at Terhune’s Orchard. In second grade, I broke my wrist running toward my dad and never would have guessed that, just a few years later, I would sprain my ankle running away from him.

As I grew older, he was no longer as cool as he used to be. He became the enemy — a total embarrassment. He wore his socks too high and whistled too loudly. He listened to horrific country music while carpooling six other 12- year-old girls to soccer games. In front of my friends, his bold laugh paralyzed me.

However, the catastrophes that occurred in school were by far the worst. On Halloween, in seventh grade, my class went outside to watch the Lower School Halloween parade. To my surprise, my father had dressed up as Chewbacca from Star Wars, sound effects included, and was leading the march around the school. In fifth grade he, the only father, came to our Girl Scout retreat, guitar in hand, and made up songs (which in hindsight seem propagandistic) like, “Boys are stupid, boys are dumb, boys just don't know how to have fun!” Just kill me. Every time he spoke I wanted to crawl away. He invaded my privacy, humiliated me in front of my friends and seemed to be the least cool parent ever.

This struggle continued into high school, but over the last two years we somehow began to find a balance. Around the time of my 11th-grade physics project, things started to change. The assignment was to build a balsa wood bridge with the best strength-to-weight ratio. The entire junior class and the two physics teachers participated — and so did my dad. To make a long story short, he blew away all the competition by a considerable margin. Embarrassed, as usual, I fled the scene. However, later when my friends were marveling about the strength of my dad’s bridge, I found that mixed in with my embarrassment was a touch of pride.

I had needed a third party to show me what I appreciated in my dad; it wasn’t the fact that he’d won, it wasn’t even the fact that my friends were admiring him for it, it was more basic than all of that. Subconsciously I was beginning to realize that what I liked about him were the same things I liked about myself. No matter how much I had tried to resist him, he still influenced me. I began to recognize that we have many of the same values and sometimes the same opinions; most remarkable of all, we even have the same sense of humor! I used to feel that he did a lot of what he did just to bug me, but now I have enough distance to see that those weren’t his intentions at all. Everything parents do when you’re 13 is humiliating because it’s the age when kids are trying to define themselves and fit in. I knew I wanted to be independent and cool, and it just wasn't cool to have a 45-year-old dad who dresses up in costumes and tells jokes. I have decided that, in the end, he might have been a little more sensitive toward my obvious teenage insecurities, but then I shouldn’t have taken it all so seriously. Arguing about who’s right and who’s wrong on the details of some of these stories is now something we joke about.

The relationship I have developed with my dad over the years is the first that has enabled me to look back and see how I’ve grown. At this early stage in my life when I still have so many things to learn, I feel fortunate to have such an unusual father to put it all into perspective.

Sarah Stern

Bedford, n.y..

Do you remember how kindergarten was? Everyone would play together. Sometimes you didn't even know the person's name, but if she was in the sandbox too, you were friends. I don't know when, but somewhere along the way we begin to change. We start noticing each other’s differences. People react to the varying personalities and upbringings they encounter in others. Some don’t notice them; some notice them but accept them. Others fear them and some ridicule them. I think most children ridicule because it's easy and instinctive. Whatever the reason, when it starts to happen, that happy classroom full of bubbly little kindergartners playing together is destroyed, and the magic doesn’t come back. . .

The old rust from the porch swing rubbed steadily as we sat there, motionless. I didn’t know what to say and neither did he. It was a long, sultry day in the middle of May and the irritating gnats were buzzing, while my long brown ponytail stuck to the nape of my neck. But as far as we were concerned, our worlds had come to an end. And it wasn’t the gnats, nor was it my brown ponytail. “Can’t you think of anything reasonable to say?” I thought to myself, “You've been best friends forever, and you knew her death was inevitable. She’d been battling the cancer for two years.” But, of course, no words formed on my tongue, so nothing came out. And he just sat there, void of any facial expression or emotion —I couldn’t blame him. She wasn’t just his mother; she was also mine. She read me Goodnight Moon when I slept over, and she made me peanut butter and jelly sandwiches just the way I like them — with chunky peanut butter, not smooth. So, we sat there, the two of us, for the rest of the afternoon and into the night listening to our silence — the loudest sound of all. Just like it had always been — Sarah and Michael.

“Saraaaaah. . .,” he whined into the receiver, “I’m sorry, but I really can’t. She asked me out,” he stated, as though she having asked him somehow made the blow less severe.

“Listen,” I replied, “it’s fine, really. I’ll just find someone else to give the ticket to. Everyone is dying to see the concert. I’m sure it’ll be cake finding someone else to go. Have a good time with her,” I said as I hung up the receiver. I stood there, shocked. I couldn’t believe that he was ditching me and the Counting Crows for a date with some bimbo who spends her time shopping, weighing herself and having deep, intellectual conversations about Prada purses and Steve Madden shoes. The real issue at hand, though, was that these girls knew who I was: “Miss I-Have-An-Opinion-About-Everything.” I had beliefs and was never afraid to voice them. No, not opinions on the ideal weight for a 5'7" model, but opinions on abortion, our role in the Middle East and why Sylvia Plath’s literature far supercedes that of Ernest Hemingway. As one can see, this slight disparity between ideal weights and Israel was enough for “the girls” and myself to never really converse — which was precisely why I had no idea what they wanted from Michael. He and I shared this love for all issues regarding the world. We spent countless nights on his rooftop drinking vanilla milkshakes and arguing over the validity of religion, not the validity of Kate Spade purses. So what were these girls plotting? I didn’t know it at the time, partly because I was so young and naive, and partly because I was late for the Counting Crows, but this was only the beginning.

Less than a month later, everything had changed. Michael had dated every girl in that clique and got “cooler” as each day went by, but he drifted farther and farther away from me.

“Eww . . .look who it is; it's the book-worm!” they would shout, with Michael standing right beside them, his head down looking at the ground, his hands fidgeting in his pockets. One day when the routine teasing had stopped, one girl turned to Michael and said, “She is a loser! Don't you think, Michael?” And without looking up at me, he mumbled, “Yes.”

Of course, as time progressed, the hassling dwindled. They realized it wasn’t bothering me, and I wasn’t submitting to their pettiness. But never again did Michael and I get to add another page to our book of life-altering moments. He wasn’t the Michael who sat on my porch. He wasn't the Michael who shared my childhood. He had become someone I no longer knew.

Now, when I pass Michael in the school hallways, we don’t so much as glance at each other. That portion of our lives is long over. But if I’m working at the library, shelving books, and come upon Goodnight Moon , or if I’m babysitting and making Cameron his favorite — a peanut butter sandwich — or if I’m in my car listening to the Counting Crows — still my favorite, I’ll think of Michael. My memories are nothing but good — why wouldn’t they be? Here is the boy who gave me friendship, showed me fun and taught me how to be my own person and always do things for myself. Yes, people do change. Michael showed me that people value different things, and people want different things out of life. He helped me to discover my true ideas and beliefs, two things I’ve never had to question. I still argue over abortion, religion and politics with my own opinionated friends, but I will never live life according to anyone’s rules except my own. While what he became hurts, what he once was makes me smile — over Goodnight Moon , chunky peanut butter or the Counting Crows.

Alice Dou Wang

West chester, pa..

My violin’s name is Philip. He’s not as expensive or as strong-sounding as the other violins in my ensemble, but he’s the only one with a name. I named him after Philip Nolan, the character in Edward Everett Hale’s The Man Without a Country , a book that epitomizes my feelings about patriotism and love of country, a feeling that is second only to my love of God and music.

I have broken many hairs on my bow (whose name is Joseph) from playing too intensely on my violin. It’s pretty easy to make classical music sound ugly and angry, and although it’s not intended to sound that way, the good thing about bad music (and the bad thing about good music) is that it doesn’t last for very long, and you don’t remember it for very long afterward.

Music is the most ephemeral art. No piece of music is ever played the same way twice, and as soon as a sound, a note or a feeling has been produced, it is gone, no matter how valiantly I try to recapture it. Such is my desperation to hold onto Elgar’s “Nimrod” from the Enigma Variations, played Feb. 26, 2000, in an All-State Orchestra rehearsal. That was the moment when I discovered music, or rather, discovered myself, the orchestra, my violin, my passion and my purpose in life. Under the baton of a brilliant conductor, who knew music’s secret which had yet to reveal itself to us, the entire orchestra was swept away with this short but beautiful piece of music, which nobody had practiced beforehand because it looked too easy. The first time we ever played it as an orchestra was the most magical, and though all the violinists and cellists begged the conductor to spend more rehearsal time on it, “Nimrod” was never the same as when it had crept up on us, unknowing, and astounded us with its profoundness and simplicity.

That was before Philip, when the violin under my chin was a much larger and rougher one named Dante (a token to my infatuation with The Divine Comedy ). Since Philip’s christening a year ago, we have had many more ephemeral moments of timelessness. I have also discovered another instrument whose music awes even more — my voice. I have not yet named my voice, but maybe I should. It would have to be some thick, easy name to complement my untrained alto voice, like Dean or Richard. (A male name of course, because I like men.) Or maybe a tribute to my love of history and my historical heroes. Yes, Alexander Hamilton sounds perfect.

These essays are part of three similar collections from the Class of 2022 , Class of 2018 , and Class of 2012 .

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The Hamilton Admission Team offers these tips for you to consider when sitting down to write your college application essays.

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Is Playing an Instrument Helpful with College Admissions?

Curtis Forbes
July 27, 2022

A brazen burst of a trumpet, the meandering pitterings of a flute, and the rounded harmonics of a piano can be heard echoing through school hallways and music rooms. The students—meticulous, dedicated, and skillful—anticipate college application season as fervently as the conductor’s next gesture.

Like each instrument in an orchestra, college applications must be fine-tuned. Extracurricular activities—like playing an instrument—can bolster the college admissions ensemble of essays, recommendations, and test scores to fortify a student’s application and showcase their discipline.

To orchestrate a harmonious college admissions process, it’s helpful to understand how musical experience may influence college admissions, scholarship opportunities, and admissions essays.

Does playing an instrument help with college admittance?

If you’re reading this article, you might find yourself wondering: does playing an instrument help with college admissions?

The short answer is yes.

Playing a musical instrument doesn’t guarantee college admission. A musical skill set can punctuate a student’s college admission application to showcase unique expertise and differentiate it from measures of other applicants.

When reviewing applications, colleges consider two major factors:

Educational performance (like GPA and coursework)
Extracurricular engagement

Extracurricular activities are, essentially, anything you participate in outside of school hours, including but not limited to: student clubs and organizations, sports programs, theater groups, community organizations, and of course – music programs.

High-quality college applicants show promise in both academic performance and community engagement. Since playing an instrument is an extracurricular activity, it could only stand to benefit your application, as it demonstrates your initiative and commitment to collaboration, culture, and creativity.

What instrument is most appealing on a college application?

The instrument you choose is less important than your commitment to musicianship. Since, in most cases, you won’t have a chance to directly speak with the counselor reviewing your application, you have to display your commitment in one of two places:

Your college essay (which we’ll cover in more detail in a future section)
Your resume

Resumes are typically brief, but college counselors pay close attention to how long you’ve been participating in the activities listed on your resume.

To emphasize your music engagement, start playing an instrument as early as possible and consider joining prominent music programs to bolster your experience and demonstrate your dedication to the craft.

If you only start playing an instrument in your junior or senior year, it can take a while to develop fluency and keep up with rigorous academic standards.

As such, you may not be an expert by the time you start filling out your college applications. Instead, try to communicate your commitment in other ways by:

Describing your practice or lesson schedule
Listing how many performances you’ve completed since you started playing
Displaying connections between your passion for music and your other resume elements

Ultimately, colleges don’t care that you chose a particular instrument—they want to witness the results of your commitment to music education and understand your love of the craft.

Can music land you a scholarship?

Learning an instrument may provide students with opportunities to receive a scholarship award. To that end, let’s explore a few examples of how your music education could impact your likelihood of earning a scholarship or grant:

If you’re applying to a music program, the college of music may provide scholarships to students who play specific instruments, or those who participate in specific music activities (like orchestras, concert bands, or competitions).
General scholarship funds often work in the same way that college admissions boards do—they look for above-average academic performance and extracurricular involvement.
A local music organization or competition in your community might provide scholarships to students who participate in a performance or score highly in a competitive setting.

Should I write my college essay about music?

The college essay is a unique opportunity to showcase your personality, writing prowess, and non-educational engagement to a college admissions board.

If your instrument is a cornerstone of your life, consider using the college essay to showcase your commitment, particularly if your musical endeavors are central to your identity, you wish to pursue a degree or career in music, or contribute to your exploration of life.

But you don’t have to write about your musical experience alone—consider discussing how music has impacted your:

Career or major considerations
Other extracurricular activities
Mental health
Academic performance
Community engagement
Connection to your family, heritage, or identity

How do you start learning an instrument?

Playing an instrument can communicate to a college admissions board that you’re well-rounded, committed to extracurricular activities, or uniquely skilled outside of the classroom. But how do you start your musical journey?

#1 Choose an instrument

Choosing an instrument is a paramount yet difficult endeavor.

For some people, a specific instrument speaks to them. If you love a particular genre of music, you may be inclined to choose an instrument that’s central to that genre.

For example, if you’re passionate about bluegrass, you might choose to play the banjo. Or, if you’re more inclined to complex harmonies of jazz, you might favor a saxophone or trumpet.

But for others, the sheer number of options might overwhelm. Consider speaking with a music teacher or other music education professional to help you choose an instrument that would pair well with your physical abilities, interests, or your goals.

#2 Set goals

Jazz trio improvisation singer saxophone and drums

Learning to play specific songs
Performing for: friends, family, the public, your religious organization or club
Playing in a band or group
Entering competitions or showcases

If you choose to write about music in your college essay, you can discuss how reaching your musical goals has impacted your life, your relationship to music at large, or your educational pursuits.

#3 Explore your education options

Your goals will likely shape the way you learn to play an instrument. For instance, if you strive to play for yourself or in casual settings, you might seek online music lessons.

Conversely, at-home music lessons can provide students looking to tackle challenging pieces of music with expertise from a comfortable environment.

No matter the modality, music lessons provide professional music instruction from qualified, experienced educators. An exceptional music teacher should provide students with tailored lesson plans that prioritize enjoyment, learning, and exploration above all else.

Male Pupil With Teacher Playing Piano In Music Lesson

Access to a professional when you have questions
Direct feedback on technique or performance
Engagement with the music community at large
Opportunities for performances or competitions suggested by your teacher
Qualified professionals to craft college admissions recommendations and letters

#4 Practice, practice, practice

For music, the adage practice makes perfect might be the core tenet disciplined into every great musician.

Once you choose your instrument, set attainable goals and pick a music education option that works for you. Then, practice your technique, your foundational skills, and the pieces you plan to perform, record, or enter into a competition.

This is when you’ll discover the elements of music education that improve your standing in college admissions settings—cognitive skill sets, stress management, commitment, artistry, and well-rounded engagement outside of academics.

Forbes Music Company: Making music education more accessible than ever

Similar to a compelling concerto, a successful college application must be dynamic and versatile to exhibit unparalleled tenacity and expertise—and playing an instrument can help enliven the experience and depth of an applicant.

Student musicians display extracurricular commitment, passion for honing a skill, and well-rounded lifestyles—all elements that college admissions counselors seek when considering the next year’s incoming class.

When you’re ready to start learning an instrument , Forbes Music Company is here to connect you with passionate, experienced educators. Our online and in-person music courses foster love, appreciation, and enjoyment of music, and our pillars of respect, patience, understanding, thoughtfulness, and care drive our core methodologies.

Whether you’re new to music, returning to your instrument after some time away, or an advanced music student, we can help you achieve your goals and connect to one of the world’s most powerful art forms.

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Home — Application Essay — National Universities — My Journey with the NYO and the Violin

My Journey with the NYO and the Violin

University: Harvard University

About this sample

Words: 649 |

Published: Jul 18, 2018

Words: 649 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

Our acquaintance began when I was four. I still remember my mother shouting in horror when I would hold lightsaber battles with my bow, recreating the scenes from Star Wars . But thirteen years later, I have put thousands of hours of practice into taming its rough voice, which is now equally capable of producing roars of rage as it is sighs of satisfaction. Without my violin, I never would have played in the Maison Symphonique Hall in Montreal or given elegies for eldercare residents as a music therapist, or been able to meet Chris Hadfield.

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It has been getting harder to find time for music in my hectic lifestyle, especially since I have to travel an hour or more by car three times a week to do so. I remember one memorable day when I raced to a masterclass after a tennis match, sweaty clothes and all. But despite the debate tournaments, math contests, tutoring, and the cornucopia of College Board exams, I somehow find time to devote to my violin every single day. Even on those “days from hell” where I leave the house at six and get back at midnight, I slap on a metal practice mute and silently grind through forty minutes of Brahms before collapsing from exhaustion.

My commitment to music enabled me to join the National Youth Orchestra (NYO) of Canada. To say it was the best experience of my life would be hackneyed, and that’s the problem with overusing the extremes of language. It becomes harder to describe the truly fantastic experiences in life, especially since I was lucky enough to be provided with full scholarships from NYO Canada.

“You guys made it. This is the hardest orchestra to get into in Canada for students such as yourself. Give yourself a pat on the back. You deserve it!” a staff member proclaimed to wild cheering. It was intimidating at first, having to live with ninety-five other strangers, most of whom were college students - some already had their bachelor’s in hand.

The next seven weeks turned out to be the most grueling ones of my life. The nine-hour days, cross country flights, and the shuffling in and out of hotels during the tour took their toll on me. But this total immersion ensured that I learned to value hard work, grind through multiple three-hour recording sessions, and handle pressure.

NYO was what it was because of the people. Despite the age difference, I was amazed at our ability to converse freely as equals. On that first day, I never would have thought that these strangers would become my lifelong friends, my life support, even my family throughout communal exhaustion. It wasn’t an uncommon sight to see people slumped against one another during lunch, desperate to catch just a wink of sleep before the next rehearsal.

As actors go on stage for their final bow, and as classmates part ways at school’s end, there is a sense of finality in the air, a sense that something more profound than themselves has died, something they can’t quite put their fingers on. I felt very much the same way at the end of the past two summers with the National Youth Orchestra of Canada.

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I am a solo violinist, an avid orchestral member, and a passionate chamber musician. It isn’t only the passing of the years that has aged me; music first evoked in me the emotions that even now, words and pictures cannot. I find a refuge somewhere in between D major and G minor. When I turn the final page of a Mahler symphony, adrenaline surges through my every vein, and my palms grow sweaty. There’s nothing more satisfying than being able to pull off a flawless Bach Partita, and nothing more frustrating than cracking a note. But ultimately, there’s nothing more fulfilling than having played the violin throughout my life.

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15 College Scholarships for Music Students

What’s covered:, college scholarships for music students.

Collegevine Scholarship

Music is your passion, and you hope to pursue it at a higher level. For you, it’s a calling (and a gift). Already, you’ve made huge strides toward pursuing a career in your art.

If you’re looking to further your music education, you may be discouraged by the high price tag of many programs in your field. Fortunately, there are plenty of scholarships available to help you study and develop your passion.

1. ICEBERG New Music Young Composer Awards

Amount: $1,000

Deadline: N/A

Eligibility: N/A

Application Requirements: N/A

ICEBERG New Music, a collective of 10 young composers in New York City, furthers its mission of recognizing that “substance, not surface, is the heart of music creation and perception” with an annual Young Composer competition. Geared toward composers from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds, the $1,000 awards help pre-collegiate composers pursue their education.

2. Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award Scholarship

Amount: Up to $10,000

Deadline: November 22 (2021)

Eligibility: Pre-collegiate musicians ages 8-18

Application Requirements: Application, two video or audio music clips, two recommendations, most recent tax returns, transcript, standardized test scores

Awarded by From the Top and the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, these scholarships help offset the costs of studying classic music at a high level.

Approximately 20 classical instrumentalists, vocalists, and composers with demonstrated unmet financial need, educational engagement, and creativity are selected to receive the award, which may be applied toward instrument purchases, summer camp tuition, college audition travel expenses, private lessons, or other music-related needs.

3. Dr. Robert Hawkins Memorial Scholarship

Amount: $1,000 and $2,000

Deadline: November 5 (2021)

Eligibility: Must be planning to attend or already attending a college or university in the U.S.

Application Requirements: Transcripts, three letters of recommendation, essay

Named for one of the Ten Outstanding Band Directors in the United States and a posthumous inductee into the Band Directors Hall of Fame at Troy State University, this scholarship recognizes future band directors. If you’re dreaming of following in the footsteps of your band director — or forging a brand-new path — this is the scholarship for you.

4. Davidson Fellowship

Amount: $50,000, $25,000, and $10,000

Deadline: February 23, 2022

Eligibility: Must be 18 or younger as of application deadline; teams of two are eligible

Application Requirements: A piece of significant work

Named one of U.S. News ’ 7 Prestigious Undergrad Scholarships, the Davidson Fellowship offers generous scholarships in the following areas: Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Literature, Music, Philosophy, and Outside the Box. To enter, students must have completed a significant piece of work in one of these categories.

Projects are evaluated on creativity, innovation, impact, and their potential to make a positive contribution to society.

5. Loren L. Zachary National Vocal Competition for Young Opera Singers

Amount: $15,000-$18,000; $1,000-$2,000.

Deadline: Auditions vary by location

Eligibility: Young adults between 21-35

Application Requirements: Application and audition

The 50th Annual National Vocal Competition for Young Opera Singers is one of the most prestigious singing competitions in the world. This year, auditions will be held in New York and Los Angeles. Finalists will attend coaching sessions and rehearsals, as well as the Grand Finals Concert.

6. Fred J. Miller Memorial Music Education Fund Scholarship

Amount: $2,000

Deadline: October 25 (nomination form due)

Eligibility: Applicants must perform at a Bands of America Marching Championship and receive a nomination

Application Requirements: Nomination from band director, resume, essay

The Fred J. Miller Memorial Music Education Fund was established to support future music educators. Every year, a school’s band director may nominate two students for this scholarship. Students must demonstrate musicianship, leadership, skills, and work ethic, as well as plan to enroll in college within one year of graduating high school. They should also plan to pursue a degree in music education.

7. Music for All Foundation Yamaha Scholarship

Deadline: October 25

Eligibility: Applicants must be nominated and have at least a 3.0 GPA

This scholarship, like the previous, is made possible by the Music for All Foundation, dedicated to creating and providing “life-changing experiences through music for all.” These one-time awards recognize students nominated by directors of bands performing at Grand National Championships.

8. John Lennon Scholarships

Amount: $20,000 (total for three scholarships)

Deadline:

Eligibility: College students and alumni between the ages of 17-24

Application Requirements: Original song submission

Established in 1997 by Yoko Ono in conjunction with the BMI Foundation, this scholarship honors talented student songwriters and composers of genres like alternative, pop, rock, indie, electronica, R&B, and experimental. Today, it is considered one of the most prestigious awards for emerging songwriters. Works are judged by a panel of songwriters, musicians, and music publishers and executives.

9. Oregon Music Hall of Fame Scholarship

Amount: N/A

Deadline: March 15, 2022

Eligibility: Graduating Oregon high school seniors

Application Requirements: Application, letters of recommendation, essay

Young musicians who are residents of Oregon are eligible for this annual award. Applicants should have exhibited serious pursuit and accomplishment in their musical students and want to continue to study music in college. Along with a monetary scholarship, recipients will perform on stage at an awards presentation.

10. Justin Veatch Fund Music Scholarship

Deadline: April 15

Eligibility: Graduating high school seniors living within a 40-mile radius of Yorktown Heights, NY

Application Requirements: Application, examples of musical work, statement, references

The Justin Veatch Fund was established by Jeffrey Veatch in memory of his son, Justin, who died from a drug overdose at age 17. Justin was on the verge of recording his first music album, and his family establish an eponymous fund to support and inspire musically talented teenagers. To apply, students should write a 500-word statement on how they plan to use the scholarship.

11. Iowa Scholarship for the Arts

Amount: $2,500

Deadline: April 1, 2022

Eligibility: Open to Iowa high school seniors; must be planning to enroll at an Iowa college or university

Application Requirements: Video or audio files demonstrating talent and abilities

The Scholarship of the Arts supports talented Iowa students who plan to study at an Iowa college or university. Examples of performing arts categories include music, film, theatre, dance, performance art, and music composition. Students should be planning on pursuing a major in at least one of the following arts areas: animation, architecture, creative writing, dance, English, fashion, fine arts education, folk & traditional arts, graphic design, literature, media arts, music, theatre or visual arts.

12. Marine Band Concerto Competition for High School Musicians

Amount: $2,500, $1,000, or $500

Deadline: November 15, 2022

Eligibility: Musicians in grade 9-12; open to woodwind, brass, and percussion players in 2022 and string, piano, and harp players in 2023 (reverses every other year)

Application Requirements: Performance recording submitted as a YouTube video, application form, letter of recommendation

“The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, in conjunction with the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, honors talented musicians with this scholarship. Students should select one work and submit a recording, accompanied by a piano, band, or orchestra, as a YouTube link.

Finalists will be invited to Washington, D.C., to compete in a final performance, accompanied by the Marine Band. They will also receive coaching by a member of “The President’s Own.”

13. Central Florida Jazz Society Scholarship Competition

Deadline: April 18, 2022

Eligibility: Open to high school seniors or students within their first three years of college; must be a resident of or attend college in Central Florida

Application Requirements: Audition audio or video clip, letter of recommendation, application

Amateur jazz musicians who are living in or attend or are planning on attending college in Central Florida may apply for this scholarship, which will help them further their studies in jazz music (the award must be used for education-related expenses). Five scholarships are awarded.

14. Colburn-Pledge Music Scholarship

Amount: $3,000 divided among several students

Deadline: April 30

Eligibility: Applicants must be residents of Greater San Antonio (counties include Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Guadalupe, Kendall, Medina, Wilson) on the date of applying and for a period of at least 6 months prior, or prior to having entered a music school, college, or university, if attending an out-of-state institution at the time of applying.

Application Requirements: Application and audition (video in 2021)

Texas residents who are studying a bowed string instrument, such as the violin, viola, cello, or bass, who want to become a professional musician are eligible to win this scholarship. Students must have demonstrable financial need and possess “genuine musical talent.” Although out-of-staters are ineligible, recipients may attend music programs outside of Texas.

15. School Band and Orchestra Essay Contest

Deadline: April 30, 2022

Eligibility: Students in grades 4-5 or 9-12 (judged in separate age groups) in a school instrumental program

Application Requirements: Essay in response to an annual prompt

Students participating in any k-12 instrumental program are welcome to write a 250-word essay in response to a prompt about music and its impact. This year, the question is, “Why did you join band, and why did you stick with it?” SBO also awards prizes to the schools the recipients attend.

Bonus #16: CollegeVine

It’s always scholarship season at CollegeVine! We offer weekly prizes of $500+, and it’s free to enter — all you have to do is create an account on our website. Increase your odds of winning by building a school list, calculating your financial aid, reviewing essays, inviting friends to join, or answering questions!

Should I keep doing violin even though I'm majoring in art?

so I'm rising sophomore and I am planning on majoring in art( and I started art when I was 4 yrs old; I went to art school). I am Korean international student, and I know a LOT of Korean do violin and they're so good at it. I'm not that good; I'm in local outside of orchestra as a first violin, concert master when concert master is not available. (so like, 2nd place?) I heard that it's good that I'm focusing on one or two main extracurricular, and I wondered: should I keep doing violin since only thing I'm doing right now is art? (so make it two major EC?) or should I more focus on art?

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Yes!!!! Do what you love. If you love the violin, do it. As long as you have at least one or two ECs related to art, the violin can't hurt. It's also somewhat related to art since playing an instrument is creative like art. I play the violin myself in addition to the guitar, ukulele, steel drums, and viola. I want to major in computer science or engineering so as you can see playing an instrument is even less relevant in my case. I still continue to play my instruments even though they are not directly related to my major because it's what I love to do. I would not be as happy without it even if it hurts my chances for college. You are young, do what you love, and enjoy high school. Planning for college is a very good thing but don't quit an activity that you enjoy for college. Colleges will see you have a passion and they will not reject you simply because you chose to focus on the violin as one of your ECs.

Colleges want to see what you did as a way to support your declared major, but it is not the only thing they focus on. They look at you as a person in general. They are interesetd in your academics, your extracurriculars, your volunteering, your family responsibilities. Of course you usually have one or two stronger extracurriculars, but they are just a small portion of your application anyway. I think if violin is something you enjoy then you shouldn't stop for the sake of your college applications. It doesn't really matter if you are the best. What matters is that you are passionate about it, that you keep improving, that you keep pursuing it. Hard work beats talent anyway. Colleges want to see people who have many intersets and manage their time in order to pursue them all.

Although I'm not majoring in art, nor playing the violin, I can assure you that you should focus on art, your [passion. And have the violin as a hobby that you have. When you apply for college though, make sure you add violin (I'm assuming you're applying to an art college) as another extracurricular, they don't just want to see "art, art, art" they want to see a blend of other things you've done. Hope I helped!

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What to avoid in college application essays | College Connection

An important part of the Common Application, which is accepted by more than 1,000 colleges, is the personal essay. Students are given six options as prompts, as well as a seventh option which is to share an essay on a topic of choice. So, students can write about anything at all.

The essay is an integral part of the application, as it is typically viewed by all the schools to which a student applies. It is the one section where students have the opportunity to share what is unique about them and what qualities they will bring to their future college community.

To make their essay stand out, students should avoid some common pitfalls.

Do not cheat. That means students should not turn to ChatGPT or to another person to write their essay. This should go without saying but, sadly, it does need to be said. College admissions officers know what the “voice” of a teenager sounds like, and that’s exactly what they’re looking for.

More: Top colleges where 'B' students are accepted | College Connection

Do not write about mental health issues. Although many young people, as well as those in every age group, deal with such issues, it is important not to share that information. Due to privacy laws, colleges are not able to contact parents if students struggle with depression, substance abuse, or any other troubling behavior. Therefore, students should not raise a red flag, or they will most likely find their applications in the “rejected” pile.

Do not be redundant. One’s personal essay is not the place to itemize the extracurricular, volunteer, and work experiences that are all included in the Activities section of the Common App. If there is one activity that dominated a student’s high school experience and is particularly compelling, it can be the topic of the essay. But students must elaborate on how they were profoundly impacted by their engagement.

More: How where you live affects your college admissions chances | College Connection

Do not recycle successful essays that were submitted by prior applicants. Often, students turn to the multitude of articles showcasing essays written by students who were admitted to Ivy League and other elite institutions. What worked for a prior student will not be effective for another as it’s not their story. It’s vital for students to share their genuine story using their authentic voice. The key to writing a thoughtful, introspective essay is to start early, carefully consider the story you want to share, and then do so in your very own style.

Susan Alaimo is the founder & director of Collegebound Review, offering PSAT/SAT ® preparation & private college advising by Ivy League educated instructors. Visit CollegeboundReview.com or call 908-369-5362 .

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Will playing violin detract from application?

This is a weird question, but hear me out.

I have been playing violin for 9 years (since second grade.) When I apply to colleges, I worry that if I am not concertmaster, (best violin in the orchestra), it will look like I was not invested in the activity and did not do well. This might be me overthinking it, but I worry it will look like I was not devoted enough to become the best. Is this accurate?

Application Prompts for 2024-2025

Your essay and short answer responses help us get to know you.

We’ve selected the following prompts for the UNC-specific portion for the first-year and transfer applications for 2024-2025. We’re proud of the Carolina community and how each student makes us better through their excellence, intellect, and character. In reading your responses, we hope to learn what being a part of the Carolina community would mean to you.

Short answer prompts

We’d like to know how you’d contribute to the Carolina community and ask that you respond to each prompt in up to 250 words.

Discuss one of your personal qualities and share a story, anecdote, or memory of how it helped you make a positive impact on a community. This could be your current community or another community you have engaged.
Discuss an academic topic that you’re excited to explore and learn more about in college. Why does this topic interest you? Topics could be a specific course of study, research interests, or any other area related to your academic experience in college.

Common Application essay

You’ll choose one Common Essay prompt to respond to in 250-650 words. These prompts are common to all schools who accept the Common Application, and you can view the prompts here. Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don’t feel obligated to do so. The Common Application also has an optional section where you’ll have the opportunity to write about how COVID-19 has affected you.

Your responses will be evaluated not only for admission, but also for possible selection for scholarships and other special opportunities. We look forward to learning more about you!

Advice for Your Application

First-year application, transfer application.

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When Your Identical Twin Wins a Grammy

Junia Lin Jonsdottir helped create the romantic visual world inhabited by her sister, the singer-songwriter Laufey. Please stop asking if she’s jealous.

Junia Lin Jonsdottir — wearing a billowing striped blouse, her long brown hair falling in waves over her shoulder — leans against a concrete guardrail overlooking the East River, her head resting on her folded arms in a romantic pose. The Manhattan Bridge is visible in the near distance.

By Callie Holtermann

“Are you Laufey?”

A fan approached the table at a cafe in the East Village, hoping for a picture with Laufey (pronounced LAY-vay), the musician beloved among Gen Z listeners for her nostalgic combination of pop and jazz.

The woman dining there had the singer’s middle part, her mannerisms and her retro-femme style of dress. She was not Laufey, but her identical twin, Junia.

The fan recovered quickly: “Do you steal all of her shoes?”

This resemblance comes in handy, Junia (pronounced YOO-nia) explained last month over eggs and kimchi on a thick slice of sourdough. She can test camera angles while her sister is hydrating before a performance, or sub in for fittings on a moment’s notice. And they do swipe each other’s shoes.

“She just got new Chanel ballet flats — of course I was going to steal them,” Junia told the fan.

But Junia, 25, whose full name is Junia Lin Jonsdottir, is more than her famous sister’s body double. She works as Laufey’s creative director, shaping the romantic visual style the singer’s fans call “Laufeycore.” She has nearly two million TikTok followers of her own who consume her fashion recommendations and her occasional tours of Iceland, where the sisters grew up.

She is also a young person trying to cement her own creative identity while her twin is in the midst of a professional breakthrough. So far this year, Laufey has won her first Grammy, attended her first Met Gala and sold out Radio City twice.

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More From Forbes

6 steps to create your winning college list.

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CHAPEL HILL, NORTH CAROLINA - JUNE 29: People walk on the campus of the University of North Carolina ... [+] Chapel Hill on June 29, 2023 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that race-conscious admission policies used by Harvard and the University of North Carolina violate the Constitution, bringing an end to affirmative action in higher education. (Photo by Eros Hoagland/Getty Images)

Navigating the college admissions landscape in 2024 demands a comprehensive understanding of current trends while ensuring that each student's unique values and needs are aligned with their chosen institutions. Here are practical steps to guide you in creating a winning college list that aligns with your values and goals.

Step 1: Define Your College Criteria

Start by identifying what's important to you in a college experience. Consider factors like location, size, academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, and campus culture. Understanding your preferences will help you narrow down your options.

Rank Your Needs

Below is a list of needs your future college could meet for you. Beside each item, rank it on a scale of 1 to 4.

1 = Non-negotiable
2 = Important
3 = Semi-important
4 = Unimportant

Your College Needs

Long distance from current home
Friends from high school will be there
Internship opportunities in my future career
Politically engaged student body
Near nature, lots of outdoor activities
Attractive program in my desired major
School with high name-brand recognition, prestigious
Good sorority/fraternity scene
Beautiful environment
Cool college town, lots of off-campus opportunities
Strong study abroad program
Strong religious affiliation/spiritual opportunities
Strong alumni network
Chance to play collegiate sports
Diverse student body
Can drive home easily

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024.

This list is by no means comprehensive. You may have a completely different set of priorities than the ones featured here. The point is this: The sooner you get real about what your needs are, the sooner you can cross schools from your list that don’t meet them. You’re the one going to college; you’re the boss of your experience.

Step 2: Research College Cultures And Values

Dig into the culture and values of each college you're considering. Start by visiting the university's website and reading their mission and vision statements. This can provide insight into what the institution values and strives to achieve.

For example, Carnegie Mellon University's Tepper School of Business emphasizes critical thinking and leadership. The school’s mission statement reads: "To create value for business and society by providing intellectual leadership, advancing the science and practice of management, and developing ethical leaders to be the agents of change in a world driven by technology and innovation.” Its motto, "My heart is in the work," suggests a deep commitment to integrating passion with profession. Does this resonate with your values and how you see your future?

To further understand a college's culture, go straight to the source: the student newspaper. Student newspapers offer candid student perspectives. For instance, a student at Stanford University might describe the entrepreneurial spirit on campus, while a student at Swarthmore College might highlight the collaborative and socially conscious atmosphere.

Step 3: Investigate Strategic Goals

Many people often express frustration with the perceived opacity of the college admissions process, and their concerns are not unfounded. However, if you want insight into the types of students likely to be admitted in the upcoming year, it’s essential to examine the college's strategic goals for the next few years. This information is usually available in their strategic plan, which can be found on their website. Look for documents that detail the institution's goals and the strategies they plan to implement to achieve them.

For instance, Stanford University’s strategic plan emphasizes sustainability and interdisciplinary research. If you are passionate about environmental science, Stanford’s focus on sustainability might align well with your interests. Conversely, the University of Chicago may highlight its commitment to rigorous intellectual inquiry and civic engagement, which appeals to students who value deep academic exploration and community involvement.

By understanding a school's strategic goals, you can determine whether the institution’s direction aligns with your academic and personal aspirations. For example, if Carnegie Mellon's Tepper School of Business prioritizes fostering innovation and using data for social good, and you have experience in launching nonprofits or working with big data, you can highlight this alignment in your application. This approach not only enhances your application but also ensures that you choose a school where you can thrive and contribute meaningfully.

Step 4: Explore Academic Offerings And Structures

When deciding on a major , it's crucial to investigate the academic programs and structures at each college. Understand the scheduling systems, core curriculum requirements, and research opportunities within your intended major.

For example, Brown University offers an open curriculum, allowing students the flexibility to design their own educational paths without mandatory general education requirements. This approach might appeal to applicants eager to explore diverse academic fields. On the other hand, Columbia University’s Core Curriculum ensures all students, regardless of major, receive a broad-based education in the liberal arts, appealing to those who value a structured and comprehensive academic foundation.

Check specific departmental websites for detailed information about faculty, ongoing research projects, and student involvement in research. These resources will give you a clearer picture of the academic environment and opportunities available in your chosen field, helping you make an informed decision about which college will best support your academic and career aspirations.

Step 5: Follow the Money

This might sound counterintuitive but hear me out. If you want to know which students a college will likely admit in the next few years, look at where the college is investing its resources. Recent donations and funding priorities can provide clear indicators of the school's current and future focuses.

For example, if you're interested in studying music business (full disclosure: I was a music business major), Belmont University should be on your radar. In April 2024, the school received a $58 million donation from a music executive to expand its programs. Such significant funding can lead to better facilities, more research opportunities, and potentially more seats and scholarships for students in those programs.

To research your favorite colleges, use resources like The Chronicle of Philanthropy to see where significant donations have been made. If your intended program has recently received a large donation, it could mean enhanced resources and opportunities for you. Conversely, if a college you’re considering is directing funds into programs or initiatives that don’t align with your interests, it might be worth reconsidering your choice.

Understanding where a college allocates its financial resources can help you to ensure alignment between your academic and career goals with the institution's strengths and priorities.

Step 6: Build Connections

It’s not only what you know; it’s who you know. A strategic step in creating a college list is to establish relationships with alumni, current students, professors, and administrators. Networking with individuals who are currently attending or have previously attended the colleges you’re interested in will give you a personalized and in-depth view of each institution.

Alumni networks, campus visits, and informational interviews can provide invaluable insights. Reach out to alumni through LinkedIn or your high school's alumni network. Attend college fairs and visit campuses if possible. During your visit, engage with current students and faculty to get a sense of the campus atmosphere and academic environment. Remember to send thank-you notes and follow-up messages after every interaction.

When building your college list, remember that it's not about finding the best college—it's about finding the best college for you. You are not just choosing a college; you are shaping your future. Make sure it’s a future that aligns with who you are and who you want to become.

When you apply to college, share your talents with the institutions that will appreciate them. You’ll know which ones they are once you follow this guide to success.

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The Violin Lesson Plan: Activities and Theory
Violin Concert Report
Violin Facts: Everything You Need to Know About the Violin
Program Overview: Violin
An Essay on My Hobby is Playing Violin [PDF]
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Dramatic Essay, 2nd Violin
10 Lines on Violin in English
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Minecraft That Was Close... 😨 (World's Smallest Violin) #shorts

COMMENTS

College Admissions Essay: Learning To Play The Violin
Playing violin from the young age of four has been my biggest boon. I grew up surrounded by musicians: my grandfather taught violin to my mother, my mother to my brother and me, and my father was a former Fulbright scholar with a DMA (Doctor of Musical Arts) degree from Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music.
College Admissions Essay: The Joy Of Playing The Violin
College Admissions Essay: My Passion Of Playing The Violin The reason for my interest in the violin has to do with my eldest sister, who played the violin during middle school. I faintly remember my sister being doubtful whether to join the mariachi or band, and my mom convinced her of joining the mariachi and playing the violin.
Read the College Essay That Got Kwasi Enin Into All 8 Ivy League Schools
Enin writes about his love of music — he plays violin, bass, and has a good voice, too — stretching the refined extracurricular into a story about leadership, community, and bringing joy to ...
College Admissions Essay: My Passion Of Playing The Violin
College Admissions Essay: The Joy Of Playing The Violin Like almost every other 3rd grader in my elementary school, when the enrichment program came to talk about joining the orchestra and band, I was fascinated.
Meaningful Activity: Violin
Truly, my violin has become an extension of me. Join Now to View Premium Content. GradeSaver provides access to 2313 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 10989 literature essays, 2751 sample college application essays, 911 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, "Members
Should I write my Common App essay about violin?
If I were to write about violin/music for my essay I'd talk about being in a small town without much support for the arts, music festivals opening my eyes, how violin helped me bond with my dad, driving 4 hours for lessons, etc. ... r/ApplyingToCollege is the premier forum for college admissions questions, advice, and discussions, from ...
Violin College Essay Examples That Really Inspire
If you're looking for a viable method to streamline writing a College Essay about Violin, WowEssays.com paper writing service just might be able to help you out. For starters, you should skim our vast directory of free samples that cover most diverse Violin College Essay topics and showcase the best academic writing practices. Once you feel ...
Essays that Worked
A sampling of the college essays that worked for Hamilton students in the Class of 2007 (reprinted with their permission). 3E2F83DF-F666-4F73-85ACE029068E5668. ... My violin's name is Philip. He's not as expensive or as strong-sounding as the other violins in my ensemble, but he's the only one with a name. ...
Violins, Trash and Calculus: 6 Paths To Better College-Entry Essays
Six experts in college admissions share some warnings, tips -- and inspiring stories -- about coming up with admissions essays that work.
Is Playing an Instrument Helpful with College Admissions?
Extracurricular activities—like playing an instrument—can bolster the college admissions ensemble of essays, recommendations, and test scores to fortify a student's application and showcase their discipline.
21 College Essay Topics & Ideas That Worked
Here's a list of essay topics and ideas that worked for my one-on-one students: Essay Topic: My Allergies Inspired Me After nearly dying from anaphylactic shock at five years old, I began a journey healing my anxiety and understanding the PTSD around my allergies.
Blog
The first installment is my college admission essay, written in 2003. Starting Over I had been practicing the entire night, over and over again. My hands ached with pain from holding my instrument. Playing the violin, was second nature to me just two years ago, has now transformed into being extremely arduous.
My Journey with the NYO and the Violin [Admission Essay Example]
Read an admission essay sample, "My Journey with the NYO and the Violin", with 649 words. Get ideas for your college application essay.
practicing violin as an extracurricular activity?
r/ApplyingToCollege is the premier forum for college admissions questions, advice, and discussions, from college essays and scholarships to college list help and application advice, career guidance, and more.
Taking your college essay to the next level
To make your college admissions essay stand out, dive deep into your experiences, don't just state facts. Show how you've changed and grown. Use your story to reveal your passions and insights. ... she's a violin player. Every morning she'd wake up at 5:30 in the morning, she'd take a run, three to five miles as a way to wake up, get energized ...
16 Strong College Essay Examples from Top Schools
First things first, this Common App essay is well-written. This student is definitely showing the admissions officers her ability to articulate her points beautifully and creatively. It starts with vivid images like that of the "rustic princess, a cradler of spiders and centipedes, who was serenaded by mourning doves and chickadees, who could glide through tick-infested meadows and emerge ...
Personal Narrative Essay On The Violin
College Admissions Essay: Learning To Play The Violin Soccer, football, lacrosse, and basketball, just to name a few, allowed my two older brothers to display their talents. Sticking to what they knew, my parents attempted to involve me in some sport, but it was apparent to me quite early on that I had another calling.
Fuck my 1600; or, why I wish my parents had made learn the violin
r/ApplyingToCollege is the premier forum for college admissions questions, advice, and discussions, from college essays and scholarships to college list help and application advice, career guidance, and more. ... I've played violin for 8 years now (only a high school junior currently) and I can definitely say that I envy people who get even a ...
15 College Scholarships for Music Students
If you are a musician, the sky is the limit when it comes to college scholarships. Here we have listed some of the top opportunities out there that could fund your future education. ... such as the violin, viola, cello, or bass, who want to become a professional musician are eligible to win this scholarship. ... College Essays, Essay Breakdowns ...
Should I keep doing violin even though I'm majoring in art?
And have the violin as a hobby that you have. When you apply for college though, make sure you add violin (I'm assuming you're applying to an art college) as another extracurricular, they don't just want to see "art, art, art" they want to see a blend of other things you've done. Hope I helped!
What to avoid in college application essays
An important part of the Common Application, which is accepted by more than 1,000 colleges, is the personal essay. Students are given six options as prompts, as well as a seventh option which is ...
Violin Essay
College Admissions Essay: Learning To Play The Violin Soccer, football, lacrosse, and basketball, just to name a few, allowed my two older brothers to display their talents. Sticking to what they knew, my parents attempted to involve me in some sport, but it was apparent to me quite early on that I had another calling.
Will playing violin detract from application? : r ...
I have been playing violin for 9 years (since second grade.) When I apply to colleges, I worry that if I am not concertmaster, (best violin in the orchestra), it will look like I was not invested in the activity and did not do well. ... from college essays and scholarships to SAT/ACT test prep, career guidance, and more. Members Online. So ...
Dual credit student Laura Varela pens winning entry in VC's 'What's
Victoria College. 2200 E. Red River Street Victoria, TX 77901 Local: (361) 573-3291 Toll Free: (877) 843-4369 Send Us an Email. An Equal Opportunity Employer
Application Prompts for 2024-2025
Discuss an academic topic that you're excited to explore and learn more about in college. Why does this topic interest you? Topics could be a specific course of study, research interests, or any other area related to your academic experience in college. Common Application essay. You'll choose one Common Essay prompt to respond to in 250-650 ...
Meet the Woman Behind Laufey's Romantic Style: Her Twin Sister, Junia
Ballet Flats in Iceland. The sisters grew up in both Washington, D.C., and Iceland, their father's home country, in a household made musical by their mother, a classical violinist who is Chinese.
6 Steps To Create Your Winning College List
Step 1: Define Your College Criteria. Start by identifying what's important to you in a college experience. Consider factors like location, size, academic programs, extracurricular opportunities ...