What can I submit as optional supplemental materials for Cornell?

I've noticed that Cornell allows applicants to submit optional supplemental materials. What sort of things do people usually submit and would you recommend including these materials in my application? Any advice would be great!

Submitting optional supplemental materials can be a great way to provide additional context about your skills and experiences as a Cornell applicant. However, you'll want to make sure that anything you submit adds value to your application and isn't redundant with information provided elsewhere.

Some examples of supplemental materials students might submit include:

1. Art portfolios: If you have a strong background in visual or performing arts, you can submit a portfolio showcasing your best pieces or performances. Make sure your work is polished and reflects your skill level, as it could help you stand out in a competitive applicant pool.

2. Research papers or abstracts: If you've participated in significant academic research, you can submit a research paper or an abstract highlighting your findings and the impact of your work. This can be an excellent way to demonstrate your intellectual curiosity and dedication to a particular field of study.

3. Writing samples: For applicants with strong writing skills, submitting a writing sample such as a short story, poem, or essay can help you demonstrate your ability to craft a compelling narrative, which could reflect well on your overall application.

4. Videos or multimedia presentations: If you have expertise in a specific area (such as public speaking, entrepreneurship, or community organizing) that can't be adequately conveyed through a written application, you might consider submitting a video or multimedia presentation that showcases your skills and achievements.

Before deciding whether or not to include optional supplemental materials, consider if they will enhance your application in a meaningful way and showcase a unique aspect of your background or skill set. If you feel confident that there's a strong alignment between the quality of the material and the values or expectations of Cornell admissions, it may be worthwhile to include it.

However, don't feel pressured to submit supplemental materials if you don't have a strong reason to do so. Admissions officers have a limited amount of time to review each application, and submitting unnecessary materials can potentially detract from other aspects of your application. Ensure that anything you submit adds substantial value and helps to create a holistic picture of who you are as an applicant.