2 answers
Ava
Student
Portage, Wisconsin
1
Question
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How can I boost my acceptance rate?
IV leagues specifically
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2 answers
Zachary Bromfeld
Strategy & Operations
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Zachary’s Answer
Boosting your GPA and enhancing your standardized test scores are essential, but colleges also appreciate seeing you engaged in extracurricular activities. Consider joining exciting clubs, sports teams, and taking part in community volunteer events. Colleges want to be sure that you'll positively contribute to their campus, and showcasing your involvement in extracurriculars is a great way to demonstrate this.
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
335
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi Ava - that is a great question! I graduated from an Ivy League college and did alumni interviewing of candidates for many years. Building on Zachary's advice:
1) Not only should you maintain a high GPA, but you should demonstrate a willingness to challenge yourself academically by taking honors and AP courses when available.
2) Regarding extracurriculars, colleges are looking for quality over quantity. You don't have to do many different activities, just a few that mean something to you. They like to see involvement over a number of years and development of enhanced skills and/or leadership skills.
3) Demonstrate interest in the colleges by scheduling visits, taking tours, and attending information sessions (on campus and locally). They want to know that you will attend their school if you are admitted, and showing interest is one of the measures. Also, all of this will make it easier to complete supplements, if they have any.
4) Write your Common App essay over the summer between your junior and senior years and perhaps start the supplements for your top colleges. Colleges want to know how you think and express yourself so take your time writing responses and expect to do several drafts.
5) Create a spreadsheet of your top colleges and note their key dates and policies about conducting interviews with prospective students. You do not want to miss a deadline, and they can vary from college to college. Some colleges don't have interviews at all; others have students or alumni conduct them. Generally, interviews are a great opportunity for you to distinguish yourself and ask questions that are not covered on the website.
A last thought, though. I loved my college experience, but have seen people have terrific experiences at many different kinds of colleges. A lesser-known college may be better for you because the atmosphere there just clicks for you or because of a special major or certification program they offer. College is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Good luck!
Write a list of characteristics you want in a college
Research a variety of colleges, not just the Ivy League
1) Not only should you maintain a high GPA, but you should demonstrate a willingness to challenge yourself academically by taking honors and AP courses when available.
2) Regarding extracurriculars, colleges are looking for quality over quantity. You don't have to do many different activities, just a few that mean something to you. They like to see involvement over a number of years and development of enhanced skills and/or leadership skills.
3) Demonstrate interest in the colleges by scheduling visits, taking tours, and attending information sessions (on campus and locally). They want to know that you will attend their school if you are admitted, and showing interest is one of the measures. Also, all of this will make it easier to complete supplements, if they have any.
4) Write your Common App essay over the summer between your junior and senior years and perhaps start the supplements for your top colleges. Colleges want to know how you think and express yourself so take your time writing responses and expect to do several drafts.
5) Create a spreadsheet of your top colleges and note their key dates and policies about conducting interviews with prospective students. You do not want to miss a deadline, and they can vary from college to college. Some colleges don't have interviews at all; others have students or alumni conduct them. Generally, interviews are a great opportunity for you to distinguish yourself and ask questions that are not covered on the website.
A last thought, though. I loved my college experience, but have seen people have terrific experiences at many different kinds of colleges. A lesser-known college may be better for you because the atmosphere there just clicks for you or because of a special major or certification program they offer. College is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps: