3 answers
Samira
Student
Jalalabad, Nangarhar
1
Question
Asked
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What is important for me to do, in order to get selected to Columbia University?
By this question of mine I mean to what type of volunteer activities should I give my time and what subject in school is really important for me if I want to study Law and Political science there?
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3 answers
Angel S
UI/UX Design Aspirant
222
Answers
India
Updated
Angel’s Answer
To be selected for Columbia University, especially for Law and Political Science, focus on excelling academically and engaging in activities that demonstrate leadership, critical thinking, and a passion for public service. Strengthen your application with a strong GPA, particularly in subjects like history, government, and economics, which are relevant to political science. Volunteering in organizations that advocate for social justice, legal reform, or political engagement can showcase your commitment to these fields. Internships in law firms, political campaigns, or NGOs also provide valuable experience. Additionally, participate in debate clubs or model United Nations to hone your communication and analytical skills.
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Osward
Iryna Tam
Writer, copywriter
86
Answers
Hagerstown, Maryland
Updated
Iryna’s Answer
Hello Samira!
Gaining admission to Columbia University, especially for competitive programs like Law and Political Science, requires a strategic approach that combines academic excellence, relevant extracurricular activities, and strong personal development. Here’s a detailed guide on what you should focus on:
1. Academic Excellence
High Grades: Maintain a strong GPA (ideally 3.8 or higher on a 4.0 scale) throughout your high school years.
Key Subjects: Focus on subjects that will strengthen your application and prepare you for a future in law and political science:
Political Science: Take AP or advanced courses if available to demonstrate your interest and capability in the subject.
History: A solid understanding of historical events, documents, and political systems is crucial.
English: Develop strong writing and critical thinking skills through advanced English or literature courses.
Social Studies: Engage in any social science courses that cover economics or government.
2. Standardized Tests
SAT/ACT: Aim for strong scores on standardized tests, as they play an important role in the admissions process. Consider taking SAT Subject Tests related to history or language if applicable.
Preparation: Invest time in prep courses or resources to improve your test performance, especially in critical reading and writing skills.
3. Extracurricular Activities
Debate or Mock Trial: Join your school’s debate team or participate in mock trial competitions to develop your argumentative skills and understanding of legal principles.
Student Government: Participate in student government or leadership programs to gain firsthand experience in political processes and governance.
Model United Nations (MUN): Engage in MUN to enhance your understanding of international relations and diplomacy.
Public Speaking: Look for opportunities to improve your public speaking skills through relevant clubs or community programs.
4. Volunteer Activities
Legal Aid or Advocacy Organizations: Volunteer with local legal aid offices, nonprofit organizations, or advocacy groups that focus on social justice, human rights, or community empowerment.
Political Campaigns: Get involved as a volunteer in local political campaigns or civic engagement initiatives to gain practical experience in politics and grassroots organizing.
Community Service: Participate in community service projects that help underserved populations, showing your commitment to civic responsibility and social issues.
Nonprofit Organizations: Volunteer with organizations focused on policy advocacy, education reform, or community service to demonstrate leadership and a commitment to making a difference.
5. Personal Statement and Recommendations
Compelling Personal Statement: Prepare a strong personal statement that reflects your passion for law and political science, along with your experiences that shaped your interest in these fields.
Letters of Recommendation: Cultivate strong relationships with teachers, particularly in subjects related to law, politics, or social sciences, who can write personalized and supportive recommendation letters.
6. Networking and Research
Attend Workshops/Seminars: Participate in workshops, seminars, or events related to law and politics to broaden your knowledge and network with professionals in the field.
Stay Informed: Read books, articles, and journals related to law, politics, and current events to stay informed and articulate your insights effectively.
To maximize your chances of being selected for Columbia University, focus on maintaining academic excellence, especially in relevant subjects like Political Science, History, and English. Engage in extracurricular activities that relate to law and politics, volunteer for organizations that reflect your commitment to social issues, and develop strong relationships for recommendations. Finally, cultivate a compelling personal narrative that showcases your passion and dedication to studying Law and Political Science. Good luck!
Gaining admission to Columbia University, especially for competitive programs like Law and Political Science, requires a strategic approach that combines academic excellence, relevant extracurricular activities, and strong personal development. Here’s a detailed guide on what you should focus on:
1. Academic Excellence
High Grades: Maintain a strong GPA (ideally 3.8 or higher on a 4.0 scale) throughout your high school years.
Key Subjects: Focus on subjects that will strengthen your application and prepare you for a future in law and political science:
Political Science: Take AP or advanced courses if available to demonstrate your interest and capability in the subject.
History: A solid understanding of historical events, documents, and political systems is crucial.
English: Develop strong writing and critical thinking skills through advanced English or literature courses.
Social Studies: Engage in any social science courses that cover economics or government.
2. Standardized Tests
SAT/ACT: Aim for strong scores on standardized tests, as they play an important role in the admissions process. Consider taking SAT Subject Tests related to history or language if applicable.
Preparation: Invest time in prep courses or resources to improve your test performance, especially in critical reading and writing skills.
3. Extracurricular Activities
Debate or Mock Trial: Join your school’s debate team or participate in mock trial competitions to develop your argumentative skills and understanding of legal principles.
Student Government: Participate in student government or leadership programs to gain firsthand experience in political processes and governance.
Model United Nations (MUN): Engage in MUN to enhance your understanding of international relations and diplomacy.
Public Speaking: Look for opportunities to improve your public speaking skills through relevant clubs or community programs.
4. Volunteer Activities
Legal Aid or Advocacy Organizations: Volunteer with local legal aid offices, nonprofit organizations, or advocacy groups that focus on social justice, human rights, or community empowerment.
Political Campaigns: Get involved as a volunteer in local political campaigns or civic engagement initiatives to gain practical experience in politics and grassroots organizing.
Community Service: Participate in community service projects that help underserved populations, showing your commitment to civic responsibility and social issues.
Nonprofit Organizations: Volunteer with organizations focused on policy advocacy, education reform, or community service to demonstrate leadership and a commitment to making a difference.
5. Personal Statement and Recommendations
Compelling Personal Statement: Prepare a strong personal statement that reflects your passion for law and political science, along with your experiences that shaped your interest in these fields.
Letters of Recommendation: Cultivate strong relationships with teachers, particularly in subjects related to law, politics, or social sciences, who can write personalized and supportive recommendation letters.
6. Networking and Research
Attend Workshops/Seminars: Participate in workshops, seminars, or events related to law and politics to broaden your knowledge and network with professionals in the field.
Stay Informed: Read books, articles, and journals related to law, politics, and current events to stay informed and articulate your insights effectively.
To maximize your chances of being selected for Columbia University, focus on maintaining academic excellence, especially in relevant subjects like Political Science, History, and English. Engage in extracurricular activities that relate to law and politics, volunteer for organizations that reflect your commitment to social issues, and develop strong relationships for recommendations. Finally, cultivate a compelling personal narrative that showcases your passion and dedication to studying Law and Political Science. Good luck!
Monica Chibuogwu
Educational Consulting/Counseling
76
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Monica’s Answer
Hi Samira, trust you are fine☺️
I'm excited to help you explore ways to increase your chances of getting selected to Columbia University! You're taking a great step by seeking guidance and planning ahead.
To stand out as a strong candidate for Columbia University's Law and Political Science programs, focus on the following:
To increase your chances of getting selected, focus on the following👇🏽👇🏽
🎓Academic Excellence: Maintain an outstanding academic record, particularly in subjects like:
💡History
💡Government
💡Economics
💡English
💡Philosophy
🎓For Volunteer Activities: Engage in meaningful volunteer work that demonstrates your passion for Law and Political Science. Consider activities like:
💡Interning at a law firm or non-profit organization
💡Volunteering for a political campaign or advocacy group
💡Participating in debate clubs, mock trials, or Model United Nations
💡Working with community organizations focused on social justice or human rights
🎓Leadership Roles: Take on leadership positions in school clubs, organizations, or volunteer groups. This will help you develop valuable skills like:
💡Critical thinking
💡Problem-solving
💡Communication
💡Teamwork
🎓Standardized Tests: Prepare well for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Columbia University is a highly competitive institution, so it's essential to achieve high scores.
🎓Personal Statement: Craft a compelling personal statement that showcases your passion for Law and Political Science. Highlight your achievements, experiences, and goals.
🎓Letters of Recommendation: Build strong relationships with teachers, mentors, or supervisors who can provide you with outstanding letters of recommendation.
Remember, Samira, admission to Columbia University is highly competitive. Focus on developing a well-rounded profile that showcases your academic excellence, leadership skills, and passion for Law and Political Science.
Keep moving forward, and don't hesitate to reach out here (Career Village) if you need further guidance. We got you👍🏽
Keep shining✨✨✨You've got this💪🏽
I'm excited to help you explore ways to increase your chances of getting selected to Columbia University! You're taking a great step by seeking guidance and planning ahead.
To stand out as a strong candidate for Columbia University's Law and Political Science programs, focus on the following:
To increase your chances of getting selected, focus on the following👇🏽👇🏽
🎓Academic Excellence: Maintain an outstanding academic record, particularly in subjects like:
💡History
💡Government
💡Economics
💡English
💡Philosophy
🎓For Volunteer Activities: Engage in meaningful volunteer work that demonstrates your passion for Law and Political Science. Consider activities like:
💡Interning at a law firm or non-profit organization
💡Volunteering for a political campaign or advocacy group
💡Participating in debate clubs, mock trials, or Model United Nations
💡Working with community organizations focused on social justice or human rights
🎓Leadership Roles: Take on leadership positions in school clubs, organizations, or volunteer groups. This will help you develop valuable skills like:
💡Critical thinking
💡Problem-solving
💡Communication
💡Teamwork
🎓Standardized Tests: Prepare well for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Columbia University is a highly competitive institution, so it's essential to achieve high scores.
🎓Personal Statement: Craft a compelling personal statement that showcases your passion for Law and Political Science. Highlight your achievements, experiences, and goals.
🎓Letters of Recommendation: Build strong relationships with teachers, mentors, or supervisors who can provide you with outstanding letters of recommendation.
Remember, Samira, admission to Columbia University is highly competitive. Focus on developing a well-rounded profile that showcases your academic excellence, leadership skills, and passion for Law and Political Science.
Keep moving forward, and don't hesitate to reach out here (Career Village) if you need further guidance. We got you👍🏽
Keep shining✨✨✨You've got this💪🏽