You don’t have to apply to the University of Virginia to benefit from this advice on their recent blog entry (bold emphasis theirs).
“We ask for the things we know we need to make our decisions. If someone is telling you that UVA needs things that aren’t listed in our application instructions, they are mistaken.”
As the entry explains, unless you are applying to an arts program that specifically requests a portfolio, UVA does not want resumes, abstracts, writing portfolios, etc.
Seniors, as you prepare your college applications, don’t fall prey to the impulse to send more stuff. Instead, repeat this mantra for each college: “They ask for the things they know they need to make their decisions.”
Some will ask for more than others. But they’ll all be clear about what they need.