How do you stack up for an admissions officer?
Do you wonder how you stack up for college admission success?
Well rounded and grounded students are what they want, how do you stack up? A survey conducted by Money.com found the following attributes/traits to be critical for college admissions success.
- A rigorous high school curriculum that challenges the student and may include AP or IB classes.
- Grades that represent a strong effort and an upward trend. However, slightly lower grades in a rigorous program are preferred to all A’s in less challenging coursework.
- Solid scores on standardized tests (ACT, SAT). These should be consistent with high school performance.
- A well-written essay that provides insight into the student’s unique personality, values, and goals. The application essay should be thoughtful and highly personal. It should demonstrate careful and well-constructed writing.
- Passionate involvement in a few in- or out-of-school activities. Commitment and depth are valued over minimal involvement in a large number of activities.
- Demonstrated leadership and initiative in extracurricular activities. Students who arrive on campus prepared to lead clubs and activities are highly desirable.
- Personal characteristics that will contribute to a diverse and interesting student body. Many colleges seek to develop a freshman class that is diverse: geographically, culturally, ethnically, economically, and politically.
- Letters of recommendation from teachers and guidance counselors that give evidence of integrity, special skills, positive character traits, and an interest in learning.
- Special talents that will contribute to the college’s student life program. Colleges like to know what you intend to bring to campus, as well as what you’ll take from your college experience.
It’s not too late to embrace a few changes to ensure college admissions success.