How Can a Double Major Affect My Chances at Harvard/Columbia Admission?

Applying to elite universities such as Harvard or Columbia involves a thorough understanding of the admission process and the expectations of the admissions office. One common question that arises is how a double major might impact your chances of admission. Understanding the roles of double majors in the application process is crucial, and this article aims to provide clarity on this topic.

The Role of Majors in Undergraduate Admission

Majors do not play a decisive role in most undergraduate admissions processes, especially at selective schools like Harvard and Columbia. Admissions officers typically do not assume your major based on your classes or essay alone. Instead, they look at your overall profile, including extracurricular activities, essays, test scores, and letters of recommendation.

While some state universities might have enrollment quotas for popular majors, most admissions officers at prestigious institutions do not enforce these divisions until after the first year of your undergraduate studies, when you have had a chance to explore different courses.

Economics and Political Science Considerations

A double major in economics and political science can raise specific concerns, especially if your goal is to pursue further studies in economics or related fields. At institutions like Harvard and Princeton, there are no master’s degree programs in economics for those seeking purely an advanced degree. Such programs are reserved for individuals pursuing a PhD.

According to the video clip mentioned, if you plan to study economics and want to eventually pursue a PhD in the subject, you should focus on mathematics. If you also wish to study political science, it would be better to drop that and focus entirely on mathematics. This is because graduate study in economics requires a strong foundation in mathematics, making a background in math far more beneficial than in economics alone.

Additionally, the admission to PhD programs at Harvard or Columbia, such as the economics PhD program, is exceptionally competitive. Without significant connections or research contributions, securing a spot is highly challenging. The advice from the video suggests that having a connection like Ariel Pakes' nephew or having co-authored significant research would greatly enhance your chances.

Applicability of the Double Major

The double major itself may not significantly impact your chances of being admitted to Harvard or Columbia unless you explicitly mention a major that they do not offer. For example, planning to study a major that these institutions do not provide might be seen as a lack of thorough research into your desired field.

Admissions officers are well aware that most students change their major in the first few years of college. Therefore, any evidence that you have chosen a major that the school does not offer might be viewed negatively. Admissions officers are more interested in your ability to express yourself coherently and your potential for success in your intended field.

When crafting your application, focus on demonstrating your passion, your ability to articulate your goals, and your readiness to contribute to the academic community. Your essays should highlight your personal journey, your interests, and why you are a good fit for the university.

Conclusion

The decision to pursue a double major should be made with a clear understanding of how it will impact your long-term academic goals. If your aim is to pursue advanced degrees in economics, a strong foundation in mathematics is crucial. When applying to elite institutions like Harvard and Columbia, focus on presenting a well-rounded profile that aligns with your future aspirations. Your admissions essays should showcase your unique strengths and your ability to adapt to new challenges.