What Not To Do

12 Things James Kowalski Should Absolutely Avoid During This Application Cycle

As you finalize your applications to Purdue University–Main Campus, the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor, and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University–Daytona Beach, precision and restraint are just as important as enthusiasm. Below are twelve critical “what not to do” items drawn directly from committee concerns and patterns that could undermine your strengths as a future aerospace engineering major.

1. Do not submit applications without verifying advanced math and physics coursework. The committee flagged this repeatedly. Admissions readers expect to see calculus, physics, or equivalent advanced STEM classes on your transcript. If your course list is incomplete or not yet uploaded, pause submission until you confirm those classes are listed accurately. Missing this detail can create the impression of inadequate preparation for aerospace engineering.
2. Do not treat your SAT score (1450) as a stand-alone credential for academic rigor. While strong, it cannot substitute for evidence of sustained performance in difficult courses. Avoid implying that your standardized test defines your readiness. Instead, make sure your transcript and course rigor speak for themselves—otherwise, reviewers may assume the score masks uneven academic depth.
3. Do not write essays that only describe hands-on building projects. The committee noted that essays focused solely on constructing or tinkering—without connecting those experiences to underlying physics or design principles—risk sounding superficial. Avoid narratives that read like a technical logbook. Instead, emphasize how each project deepened your conceptual understanding (see §06 Essay Strategy for how to frame this).
4. Do not include vague leadership statements. Generic claims such as “I led my team” or “I was a strong leader” lack credibility unless tied to measurable outcomes. Admissions officers for engineering programs prefer evidence of analytical leadership—like optimizing a design process or solving a technical bottleneck. Avoid filler language; specificity matters.
5. Do not overlook gaps in your academic record. You have not provided a full activity list or course sequence yet. Submitting incomplete information can lead committees to assume missing coursework or weak engagement. Before submission, ensure every academic and extracurricular detail is accounted for—even brief mentions of STEM-related involvement or coursework completion dates.
6. Do not overemphasize aerospace fascination without showing academic grounding. Passion alone, without demonstrated analytical depth, can come across as surface-level enthusiasm. Avoid essays that describe airplanes or space exploration purely as inspiration; admissions readers want to see how that interest translates into disciplined study and problem-solving ability.
7. Do not ignore formatting and technical precision in your application materials. Engineering programs value attention to detail. Typos, inconsistent date formats, or sloppy resume layouts signal carelessness. Avoid rushed submissions—proofread every document for clarity, alignment, and technical accuracy.
8. Do not assume your GPA (3.76) speaks for itself. While solid, it needs context. Avoid leaving unexplained dips or variations in grades. If any term shows a decline, address it briefly and factually in the additional information section rather than ignoring it. Silence can be misread as avoidance.
9. Do not submit recommendation requests late or without context. Engineering-focused recommenders should highlight your analytical thinking and persistence. Avoid sending generic request emails; provide them with concise notes about your aerospace interests and coursework so they can tailor their letters effectively.
10. Do not underestimate timing differences among your target schools. Purdue and Michigan have Early Action options, while Embry-Riddle’s timeline may differ. Avoid missing priority deadlines by assuming all schools operate on the same schedule. Build a calendar (see below) to track submission windows and document uploads.
11. Do not let optional sections remain blank. If a college allows space for “additional information,” use it judiciously to clarify coursework or context, not to repeat your essay. Leaving it empty when you have gaps in provided data (like activities) can be interpreted as a lack of initiative.
12. Do not rush the final review phase. Before pressing submit, cross-check your transcript, test scores, and essay tone against each program’s expectations. Avoid assuming that what works for one school will fit all three; Michigan’s holistic review differs from Embry-Riddle’s technical emphasis. A generic application can dilute your aerospace focus.

Mini Calendar: Avoidance Checklist by Month

Final Reminder

Each of these “what not to do” items protects you from preventable errors that could weaken your otherwise strong application. The committee’s recurring themes—verifying advanced coursework, demonstrating conceptual depth, and avoiding generic claims—should guide every submission decision. By actively steering clear of these pitfalls, James Kowalski ensures that his applications present a complete, disciplined, and authentic picture of his readiness for aerospace engineering study.