text: In my opinion, you should NOT lie about your intended major.  However, in your personal statement, you should indicate your interest in BOTH the sciences and in Middle Eastern Studies. (If it is true that you have interests in both areas.) \n\nRegardless of the major you will eventually choose, you are still seeking admission to the College of Arts and Sciences in the universities to which you are applying.  \n\nWhoever gave you the advice to lie about your eventual major is not a reliable (or truthful) person. \n\nFinally, if it is true that you do have some interest in Middle Eastern studies, then you should certainly mention this in your personal statement, and in your application.  Candidates with interests in more than one field (both hard sciences and humanities or social sciences) are generally seen as more well-rounded than candidates with just one focus.