3 answers
Hannah
Student
Severn, Maryland
4
Questions
Asked
1379 views
Tips to get into Bowdoin College?
Hello!
I am currently a high school sophomore, and my dream school is Bowdoin College located in Brunswick, Maine. I really do want to get in, so I was looking for any tips to increase my chances of getting in as well on tips on the supplemental essays as well as my personal statement.
Login to comment
2 answers
Dr H
171
Answers
Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Hannah!
First off, kudos for setting your sights on Bowdoin College! It’s a beautiful place with a ton of opportunities, and you’re already on the right path by asking for tips early on. Let me sprinkle in the inside scoop on how to make your application pop!
Tip 1: Build That Academic Base Like a Pro
Okay, no surprises here, but Bowdoin is looking for academic rockstars. So, while you’re still a sophomore, now’s the time to start challenging yourself with those AP classes (yes, even the terrifying ones like AP Calculus). They’ll be like, “Wow, this person clearly doesn’t shy away from hard work!” Plus, they'll respect your efforts to show that you’re serious about your education.
Pro Tip: Don’t just aim for the grades—ask questions in class, show your curiosity, and get noticed. Bonus points if you can have your teachers say, “Hannah? Yeah, she’s the one who always raises her hand with great questions."
Tip #2: Extracurriculars—Pick What You Actually Care About
Here’s the thing: Bowdoin doesn’t want you to be good at everything; they want you to be deeply invested in a few things. So don’t try to be the president of 10 clubs just because you think it’ll look impressive. It’s about quality over quantity. Pick a couple of activities you’re truly passionate about and give them your all.
Pro Tip: If you’re volunteering, building something, or leading a team—anything you do with heart and effort is what they’ll notice. Plus, genuine passion is like your application’s secret weapon. They’ll be like, “This person’s going places!”
Tip #3: Write Personal Essays That Are So You
Now, let’s talk about those essays—the ones that will take you hours to craft (trust me, I know from experience). Your personal statement and supplemental essays are your golden opportunity to show them who you really are. Don’t just tell them you’re a “hard worker” or a “good student”—show them with specific examples. Tell a story that reflects your values, your passions, and why you’re the perfect fit for Bowdoin.
For the supplemental essays, they’ll want to know why Bowdoin. Do your research! Go beyond the “beautiful campus” and “prestigious academics.” Talk about specific professors, unique programs, or something that excites you about their community. Trust me, they love when applicants take the time to really dig deep into what makes Bowdoin stand out.
Pro Tip: Remember when I said it took me days to get my essays right? Yeah, no joke! But here’s the good part: I learned that great essays take time. So don’t rush it—craft your story and really let your personality shine through. I bet you’ll surprise yourself!
Tip 4: Don’t Forget About Recommendations
Bowdoin wants to know you’re more than just a set of grades and test scores. They’ll be looking at the letters of recommendation, too. Aim for teachers who really know you—who can speak to your character, your strengths, and how you stand out in class. If you’re lucky enough to have a teacher who loves you like their own kid, that letter could be your golden ticket!
Pro Tip: Ask your teachers early! That way, they have plenty of time to write you an awesome, personalized letter instead of a last-minute “Hannah is a student who sits in the front row.”
Tip 5: Nail the Interview (If You Get One)
If you’re lucky enough to score an interview, it’s showtime! Bowdoin’s interviews are your chance to show off your enthusiasm, explain your passions, and tell them why you’re a great fit for their school. But, here’s the key—don’t overthink it. Keep it chill and conversational, but make sure you’re ready to talk about everything you wrote in your application.
Pro Tip: Treat the interview like a conversation, not a quiz. Ask them questions about the school—show you’re genuinely interested. Bonus: Make sure to smile! (It’s contagious.)
Final Words: It’s All About Authenticity
Bowdoin is looking for students who are authentic, passionate, and ready to contribute to their unique community. So, as you build your application, stay true to who you are. Don’t try to be someone you think they want—be the best version of yourself!
You've got this, Hannah! With a little humor, hard work, and a lot of heart, you’re on your way to making your Bowdoin dream a reality. 🌟📚
Good luck, and may the admissions be forever in your favor! 😎💥
First off, kudos for setting your sights on Bowdoin College! It’s a beautiful place with a ton of opportunities, and you’re already on the right path by asking for tips early on. Let me sprinkle in the inside scoop on how to make your application pop!
Tip 1: Build That Academic Base Like a Pro
Okay, no surprises here, but Bowdoin is looking for academic rockstars. So, while you’re still a sophomore, now’s the time to start challenging yourself with those AP classes (yes, even the terrifying ones like AP Calculus). They’ll be like, “Wow, this person clearly doesn’t shy away from hard work!” Plus, they'll respect your efforts to show that you’re serious about your education.
Pro Tip: Don’t just aim for the grades—ask questions in class, show your curiosity, and get noticed. Bonus points if you can have your teachers say, “Hannah? Yeah, she’s the one who always raises her hand with great questions."
Tip #2: Extracurriculars—Pick What You Actually Care About
Here’s the thing: Bowdoin doesn’t want you to be good at everything; they want you to be deeply invested in a few things. So don’t try to be the president of 10 clubs just because you think it’ll look impressive. It’s about quality over quantity. Pick a couple of activities you’re truly passionate about and give them your all.
Pro Tip: If you’re volunteering, building something, or leading a team—anything you do with heart and effort is what they’ll notice. Plus, genuine passion is like your application’s secret weapon. They’ll be like, “This person’s going places!”
Tip #3: Write Personal Essays That Are So You
Now, let’s talk about those essays—the ones that will take you hours to craft (trust me, I know from experience). Your personal statement and supplemental essays are your golden opportunity to show them who you really are. Don’t just tell them you’re a “hard worker” or a “good student”—show them with specific examples. Tell a story that reflects your values, your passions, and why you’re the perfect fit for Bowdoin.
For the supplemental essays, they’ll want to know why Bowdoin. Do your research! Go beyond the “beautiful campus” and “prestigious academics.” Talk about specific professors, unique programs, or something that excites you about their community. Trust me, they love when applicants take the time to really dig deep into what makes Bowdoin stand out.
Pro Tip: Remember when I said it took me days to get my essays right? Yeah, no joke! But here’s the good part: I learned that great essays take time. So don’t rush it—craft your story and really let your personality shine through. I bet you’ll surprise yourself!
Tip 4: Don’t Forget About Recommendations
Bowdoin wants to know you’re more than just a set of grades and test scores. They’ll be looking at the letters of recommendation, too. Aim for teachers who really know you—who can speak to your character, your strengths, and how you stand out in class. If you’re lucky enough to have a teacher who loves you like their own kid, that letter could be your golden ticket!
Pro Tip: Ask your teachers early! That way, they have plenty of time to write you an awesome, personalized letter instead of a last-minute “Hannah is a student who sits in the front row.”
Tip 5: Nail the Interview (If You Get One)
If you’re lucky enough to score an interview, it’s showtime! Bowdoin’s interviews are your chance to show off your enthusiasm, explain your passions, and tell them why you’re a great fit for their school. But, here’s the key—don’t overthink it. Keep it chill and conversational, but make sure you’re ready to talk about everything you wrote in your application.
Pro Tip: Treat the interview like a conversation, not a quiz. Ask them questions about the school—show you’re genuinely interested. Bonus: Make sure to smile! (It’s contagious.)
Final Words: It’s All About Authenticity
Bowdoin is looking for students who are authentic, passionate, and ready to contribute to their unique community. So, as you build your application, stay true to who you are. Don’t try to be someone you think they want—be the best version of yourself!
You've got this, Hannah! With a little humor, hard work, and a lot of heart, you’re on your way to making your Bowdoin dream a reality. 🌟📚
Good luck, and may the admissions be forever in your favor! 😎💥
Thank you so much! I'll be sure to try my best and follow all of this! It's my dream to get into Bowdoin so I'll do whatever I can to get in!
Hannah
Also, I forgot to ask. I'm really really bad at math so would it be wise if I took AP Calculus? Math isn't my strong suit, and I don't think it would benefit me to take this class just to fail it later and bring down my gpa.
Hannah
Ah, Hannah, the ol' AP Calculus dilemma! It's like deciding whether to climb a mountain or take a nap—both seem like a lot of work, but one involves a lot less math. 😅
If math isn’t your jam, don’t feel pressured into AP Calculus just to add it to your résumé. Remember, you don’t need to conquer every mountain; just the ones that matter most for your goals. But if you do want to try it (because who doesn’t love a challenge, right?), maybe prep yourself first, and if it feels like you're just spinning your wheels, don’t be afraid to pass on it. It’s totally okay to stick with the level that suits you best—your GPA and sanity will thank you! 😉
Dr H
Dr H
171
Answers
Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Hannah! So, about the question on whether or not you should take AP Calculus when math isn't your strong suit—it’s a valid concern!
First of all, kudos for recognizing your strengths and weaknesses. If math makes your brain feel like it's running on dial-up internet, you don’t have to take AP Calculus just for the sake of bragging rights.
If you feel like math isn’t your jam and it’s stressing you out, remember—you don’t have to take AP Calculus. It’s not a requirement to be successful, and honestly, there are plenty of other ways to stand out that align with your strengths. If you’ve got other subjects or areas that you're passionate about and naturally good at, dive into those instead!
Build on what you’re already awesome at. Mastering what you enjoy will not only make you shine but also keep you motivated and feeling more confident. You don’t have to be a math wizard to have a bright future. The world needs people who are great at all sorts of things. Whether it’s writing, science, art, or any other skill, focus on what you feel passionate about, and let that energy propel you forward.
At the end of the day, it’s about finding your flow and embracing what excites you—not trying to fit into a mold just because it’s "expected." You’ve got this, no matter the path you choose! 🌟
But if you do decide to take it, here's a little survival kit:
Get a Head Start: Familiarize yourself with the basics of calculus beforehand. Khan Academy is like the Netflix of learning (and it’s free!). You can go at your own pace, and there are videos, exercises, and explanations for pretty much everything.
Practice, Practice, Practice: No one gets good at calculus by watching videos and thinking, "I’ve got this!" It’s all about repetition. The more you practice problems, the more you'll start seeing patterns. It’s like learning a new dance move—awkward at first, but eventually smooth. Study Groups: Find a friend or form a study group. Sometimes, explaining something to others helps solidify your understanding. Plus, a little peer pressure can make you hit the books harder.
Ask for Help: Teachers love it when you ask questions! Don’t wait until you’re drowning in equations. If you're stuck, ask for clarification right away.
Work on Your Mental Math: Start with some easier math tricks to build up confidence. Math doesn’t always need to be stressful if you break it down into bite-sized pieces.
Realistic Expectations: If it’s stressing you out more than benefiting you, there’s no harm in dropping down a level.
You’ve got plenty of time to explore other challenges, and your GPA is about balancing everything. Ultimately, it’s about finding what works best for you. If you dive into AP Calculus and feel like it’s more of a battle than a boost, it’s totally okay to switch gears. Just remember, you're doing awesome by thinking ahead!
So, keep that passion alive and stay laser-focused on your goals. Bowdoin is within reach, and with your determination, you'll totally crush it! Keep pushing, stay true to yourself, and remember, all that hard work will absolutely pay off. And if you ever need me, just hit me up—I’m always here for your questions. Or, you know, for a random pep talk or a virtual high-five. 💪😎 You got this!
First of all, kudos for recognizing your strengths and weaknesses. If math makes your brain feel like it's running on dial-up internet, you don’t have to take AP Calculus just for the sake of bragging rights.
If you feel like math isn’t your jam and it’s stressing you out, remember—you don’t have to take AP Calculus. It’s not a requirement to be successful, and honestly, there are plenty of other ways to stand out that align with your strengths. If you’ve got other subjects or areas that you're passionate about and naturally good at, dive into those instead!
Build on what you’re already awesome at. Mastering what you enjoy will not only make you shine but also keep you motivated and feeling more confident. You don’t have to be a math wizard to have a bright future. The world needs people who are great at all sorts of things. Whether it’s writing, science, art, or any other skill, focus on what you feel passionate about, and let that energy propel you forward.
At the end of the day, it’s about finding your flow and embracing what excites you—not trying to fit into a mold just because it’s "expected." You’ve got this, no matter the path you choose! 🌟
But if you do decide to take it, here's a little survival kit:
Get a Head Start: Familiarize yourself with the basics of calculus beforehand. Khan Academy is like the Netflix of learning (and it’s free!). You can go at your own pace, and there are videos, exercises, and explanations for pretty much everything.
Practice, Practice, Practice: No one gets good at calculus by watching videos and thinking, "I’ve got this!" It’s all about repetition. The more you practice problems, the more you'll start seeing patterns. It’s like learning a new dance move—awkward at first, but eventually smooth. Study Groups: Find a friend or form a study group. Sometimes, explaining something to others helps solidify your understanding. Plus, a little peer pressure can make you hit the books harder.
Ask for Help: Teachers love it when you ask questions! Don’t wait until you’re drowning in equations. If you're stuck, ask for clarification right away.
Work on Your Mental Math: Start with some easier math tricks to build up confidence. Math doesn’t always need to be stressful if you break it down into bite-sized pieces.
Realistic Expectations: If it’s stressing you out more than benefiting you, there’s no harm in dropping down a level.
You’ve got plenty of time to explore other challenges, and your GPA is about balancing everything. Ultimately, it’s about finding what works best for you. If you dive into AP Calculus and feel like it’s more of a battle than a boost, it’s totally okay to switch gears. Just remember, you're doing awesome by thinking ahead!
So, keep that passion alive and stay laser-focused on your goals. Bowdoin is within reach, and with your determination, you'll totally crush it! Keep pushing, stay true to yourself, and remember, all that hard work will absolutely pay off. And if you ever need me, just hit me up—I’m always here for your questions. Or, you know, for a random pep talk or a virtual high-five. 💪😎 You got this!