Cross-Disciplinary Insights: Combining Fields of Study in Your Application Essay

Do you need to write an academic or special program application essay that combines insights from multiple fields of study and/or your interests? A cross-disciplinary approach showcases your diverse academic spectrum and illustrates your critical and creative ability. In this blog post, I will define an effective strategy that can be quickly learned by reviewing various examples of essays I have edited for my clients.

Case Study 1: Biology and Visual Arts

Emily, the Future Medical Illustrator

Emily aspired to become a medical illustrator because she was enthralled with working in a profession that would merge the scientific rigor of biology with the creativity of visual arts. In her admissions essay to the Rochester Institute of Technology, she detailed her fascination with the intricate structures of the human body and how she conveyed this complexity through her drawings. Emily described a specific project where she created a series of detailed anatomical illustrations to aid in medical education. By explaining how her art made complex biological concepts accessible to students, Emily demonstrated her unique blend of skills and her commitment to advancing medical education. Her essay highlighted her technical abilities in both disciplines and her passion for integrating them to benefit others in her future career.

Case Study 2: Engineering and Environmental Science

Carlos, the Sustainable Engineer

Carlos was pursuing a career in sustainable engineering, driven by dual interests in engineering and environmental science. To enhance his practical experience, he applied to the U.S. Peace Corps before returning to school to complete a master’s degree. His Peace Corps application essay focused on a college project where he designed a water filtration system using principles from both fields. Carlos explained the engineering challenges he faced, such as ensuring structural integrity and efficiency, while also discussing the environmental impact of his design. By detailing how he applied concepts from environmental science in selecting eco-friendly materials and optimizing the system for minimal environmental disruption, Carlos illustrated his ability to apply interdisciplinary knowledge to real-world problems. This approach not only underscored his technical expertise but also his commitment to sustainability, characteristics that align perfectly with the Peace Corps mission.

Case Study 3: Philosophy and Computer Science

Andrei, the Ethical Hacker

Andrei's goal was to become a cybersecurity expert with a strong foundation in ethics, combining his tri-lingual language abilities with his interests in philosophy and computer science. For his Master of Computer Science (MCS) admissions essay, he recounted an internship experience at the U.S. headquarters of an Israeli tech company where he worked on developing security protocols. Andrei integrated his philosophical studies by addressing the ethical implications of cybersecurity, such as privacy concerns and ethical hacking practices. He discussed how his background in philosophy helped him navigate these ethical dilemmas, ensuring that his technical solutions were not only effective but also morally sound. Andrei’s essay effectively showcased his language skills and his ability to bridge the gap between technical and ethical considerations, positioning him perfectly to become a thoughtful and responsible future leader at an international cybersecurity firm.

Case Study 4: Literature and Neuroscience

Cibile, the Cognitive Literary Theorist

Cibile was fascinated by the intersection of literature and neuroscience, particularly how storytelling affects the human brain. In her Statement of Purpose essay to UC Santa Barbara, she described an intended research project where she would investigate the neurological effects of reading fiction. Cibile detailed how she planned to use neuroimaging techniques to study brain activity in readers, linking specific narrative techniques to emotional and cognitive responses. By combining literary analysis with scientific research, she provided a thought-provoking perspective on the power of storytelling. Her S.O.P. was the epitome of an interdisciplinary approach enhanced by innovative thinking and research skills and made a compelling case for her potential contributions to cognitive literary theory.

Recap: The Benefits of a Cross-Disciplinary Approach in Admissions Essays

1. Demonstrates versatility: Combining fields of study shows you have a broad range of interests and skills, making you a well-rounded candidate.

2. Highlights problem-solving skills: Addressing complex problems through multiple lenses demonstrates your ability to think critically and creatively.

3. Showcases innovation: Interdisciplinary work often leads to innovative solutions and insights, which can set you apart from other applicants.

4. Reflects real-world relevance: Many modern challenges require knowledge from multiple disciplines, and showcasing your ability to integrate them reflects your readiness for real-world applications.

Synchronizing Related Fields

While it’s true that combining seemingly disparate fields can create compelling narratives, exploring the subtle nuances and distinct perspectives within closely related disciplines can also produce an impressive application essay. Below, I present two additional case studies that illustrate how fields with ostensible similarities can offer unique insights when viewed through a cross-disciplinary lens.

Case Study 5: Economics and Political Science

Ingrid, the Policy Analyst

Ingrid aspired to work in public policy, a field where economics and political science often intersect. In her application essay for Carnegie Mellon University, she discussed her interest in economic policies and their political implications. Ingrid detailed a high school research project where she led a team of students to analyze the economic impact of a proposed minimum wage increase for their hometown. From an economic perspective, the team used quantitative models to predict job market outcomes, wage inflation, and overall economic growth. However, Ingrid herself integrated her interest in political science by examining the legislative process, stakeholder interests, and the political feasibility of implementing such policies. By highlighting her interest in the two fields, Ingrid showcased her ability to navigate both the technical and political dimensions of public policy. Her admission essay demonstrated not only her analytical skills but also her leadership qualities and understanding of the complexities involved in policymaking.

Case Study 6: Environmental Science and Urban Planning

Liam, the Sustainable Urban Developer

Liam aimed to become a sustainable urban developer, combining his interests in environmental science and urban planning. In his admissions essay, he described a project where he worked on designing a green infrastructure plan for a small urban area. From the environmental science perspective, Liam conducted ecological assessments, evaluated biodiversity, and considered the environmental impact of different design choices. In contrast, his urban planning work involved zoning laws, community engagement, and infrastructure development. By integrating these fields, Liam was able to propose a comprehensive plan that balanced ecological sustainability with urban development needs. His essay illustrated his capacity to apply scientific knowledge to practical urban planning challenges, highlighting his interdisciplinary expertise and commitment to sustainable development.

Incorporating cross-disciplinary insights into your admissions essay can significantly enhance its impact. By drawing from various fields of study, you can present a richer, more nuanced picture of your intellectual capabilities and passions. The case studies I’ve presented demonstrate how this approach can highlight your versatility and potential to contribute innovatively to your chosen field. Even when fields are similar, exploring their unique perspectives can reveal new insights and demonstrate your depth of understanding.

When writing your application essay, whether your interests are distinct or closely related, you should be able to create a compelling and memorable essay that stands out in the competitive admissions landscape. Don’t go through the process alone; having another set of eyes on your application essay can be a big help. Write or call me today at Application Essay Master and let’s begin designing and polishing your successful essay together.