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Does choosing a certain major lesson your chances of admission?

I wrote my personal statement on neuroscience, but I applied as a Philosophy major to UNLV. UNLV doesn't have a Neuroscience major, but they have it as a minor. Did I lesson my chance of admission to UNLV because of my personal statement and major choice?

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Daniel’s Answer

If the university you hope to attend has very limited (competitive) admissions to a department, you may have better chances of applying to the school in a department that is easier to get into and apply for your desired department once you are a student at the school. Just make sure you are not wasting credits on courses you start with - ensure they are applicable to both departments.
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Ian’s Answer

Hello Rhyian,

I believe the admissions office will primarily concentrate on whether you fulfill the university's established criteria. If you were applying to a specific College of Philosophy, then your personal statement might have a greater impact. However, the personal statement is mainly a chance for the university to understand you better and identify the unique qualities and viewpoints you can contribute to their community. So, don't worry too much or feel that you've made a mistake or lessened your admission chances based on your personal statement. Keep your spirits high! Best of luck to you!
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Darielle’s Answer

Hi Rhyian! This is a great question. Having a selected major will likely not hurt your chances of admission, unless it is a selective program within a specific school of the university. From the context you gave, it sounds like that isn't the case. If anything, you are showing demonstrated interest and passion, which is always great for an admissions committee to see and helps them understand a bit more about you. Having a broad range of interests with specific passions is great, especially when you are just starting out in college. For all you know, your major decision may shift once you get to college and explore other avenues. I wouldn't worry -- it sounds like your personal statement captured who you are and what you are interested in, and that's what matters.
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Aditi’s Answer

Hey Rhyian! Great answers from others so far, and I think given that they don't have a neuro major, philosophy is a great choice to declare. It teaches you how to think about complex problems, and understand how the human mind works, which goes well with the technicalities of neuro. Good luck with the apps!
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Harmony’s Answer

This may depend on the school so I would advise checking college admission forums or asking current students. Some universities admit based on intended major, and if some majors are immensely popular or competitive, it will be more challenging to get admitted by selecting those specific majors. However, this may not matter at other universities. It all depends on how admissions is set up at the schools you are looking at.
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Darreon’s Answer

Hi!

Given they do not have your preferred major anyways I believe you are fine. A lot of majors are interdisciplinary anyways (i.e. think mathematics and philosophy intersecting at many points). You are clearly showing your interest and passion in what you want so feel assured that you applied to the best of your ability!
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