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what makes high school students stand out to colleges?
I am an AP, IB, and DC student who volunteers in various clubs while maintaining a 4.86 GPA. However, I'm afraid this isn't enough. What can I do to stand out?
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8 answers
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Cameron’s Answer
Firstly it sounds like you are well on your way to having a stellar resume for applications. I do not know where you intend to apply but I have to think on these stats you have a great shot at a great many colleges as you stand.
So I would first start by giving yourself credit! Confidence will carry you a long way, especially when you have results like yours to back it up!
Something you could do to differentiate yourself is something to show initiative. So far you have signed up for existing classes, existing clubs, everything with the framework already lined out for you for the most part. Start a small business that you could manage with a hobby that you like (an Etsy page or advertising services on FB Marketplace) or start a club of your own!! This would go a LONG way to showing self-reliance and motivation.
Good luck!!
So I would first start by giving yourself credit! Confidence will carry you a long way, especially when you have results like yours to back it up!
Something you could do to differentiate yourself is something to show initiative. So far you have signed up for existing classes, existing clubs, everything with the framework already lined out for you for the most part. Start a small business that you could manage with a hobby that you like (an Etsy page or advertising services on FB Marketplace) or start a club of your own!! This would go a LONG way to showing self-reliance and motivation.
Good luck!!
Updated
Patricia’s Answer
Make sure that your writing skills are on point. Colleges, scholarships, and grant applications often include a section for an essay. Have a good idea of how to present yourself and your achievements in a way that shows how serious you are about your education and goals and what you see for your future.
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Kate’s Answer
Hello Kennisa,
From the details you've provided, it's clear that you're both driven and intelligent.
When navigating the college application process, here are some strategies that might help make your application stand out:
1. Identify a common thread that ties your extracurricular activities and volunteer work to a specific area of interest or the field of study you wish to pursue. Given the competition for spots in top colleges, standing out can be a challenge because top candidates, like you, will have a wealth of volunteer experience and extracurricular activities, along with excellent grades. However, demonstrated passion and consistency over tithe years, coupled with the ability to build on your experiences, can set you apart.
2. Prioritize the quality of your experiences over the quantity. Colleges value authenticity and credibility in applications in an effort to identify students who are genuinely passionate about their field of study, as opposed to those who merely aim to impress the admissions office with a vast array of experiences.
3. If there are any gaps in your education or experience, consider taking additional courses or participating in specific extracurricular activities to demonstrate your commitment and passion. This dedication and focus can significantly enhance your application.
Best of luck with your applications, and don't forget to have some fun in high school as well!
From the details you've provided, it's clear that you're both driven and intelligent.
When navigating the college application process, here are some strategies that might help make your application stand out:
1. Identify a common thread that ties your extracurricular activities and volunteer work to a specific area of interest or the field of study you wish to pursue. Given the competition for spots in top colleges, standing out can be a challenge because top candidates, like you, will have a wealth of volunteer experience and extracurricular activities, along with excellent grades. However, demonstrated passion and consistency over tithe years, coupled with the ability to build on your experiences, can set you apart.
2. Prioritize the quality of your experiences over the quantity. Colleges value authenticity and credibility in applications in an effort to identify students who are genuinely passionate about their field of study, as opposed to those who merely aim to impress the admissions office with a vast array of experiences.
3. If there are any gaps in your education or experience, consider taking additional courses or participating in specific extracurricular activities to demonstrate your commitment and passion. This dedication and focus can significantly enhance your application.
Best of luck with your applications, and don't forget to have some fun in high school as well!
Houcine Lakhchach
Career Development Specialist | U.S Department exchange Alumnus | EFL/ESL trainer | Program manager
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Houcine’s Answer
Hi Kennisa,
To stand out to colleges, you should showcase your unique qualities and achievements. Admissions officers look for well-rounded students who excel academically, engage in extracurricular activities, and demonstrate leadership skills. Your academic performance matters, so strive for high grades and challenging coursework. Participate actively in clubs, sports teams, arts, community service, or any other activities you are passionate about. Holding leadership roles and positively impacting your community can make a strong impression. Don't forget to highlight any special awards, honors, or recognitions you have received. Additionally, use your personal essay to share your story and aspirations, giving colleges insight into your character and personality. Lastly, be true to yourself and let your genuine passion for learning and personal growth shine through. Each college values different attributes, so embrace your unique background and experiences. Remember, being authentic and showcasing your individual strengths will make you stand out in the competitive college admissions process.
To stand out to colleges, you should showcase your unique qualities and achievements. Admissions officers look for well-rounded students who excel academically, engage in extracurricular activities, and demonstrate leadership skills. Your academic performance matters, so strive for high grades and challenging coursework. Participate actively in clubs, sports teams, arts, community service, or any other activities you are passionate about. Holding leadership roles and positively impacting your community can make a strong impression. Don't forget to highlight any special awards, honors, or recognitions you have received. Additionally, use your personal essay to share your story and aspirations, giving colleges insight into your character and personality. Lastly, be true to yourself and let your genuine passion for learning and personal growth shine through. Each college values different attributes, so embrace your unique background and experiences. Remember, being authentic and showcasing your individual strengths will make you stand out in the competitive college admissions process.
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Emma’s Answer
To stand out to colleges, high school students should complement their academic achievements with a focus on leadership roles within clubs and organizations, meaningful community involvement, and passion projects that align with their interests. Pursuing internships or work experiences related to their intended major, securing strong letters of recommendation, and crafting a compelling personal statement are also essential. Demonstrating commitment to diversity and inclusion, showcasing achievements and awards, and considering the submission of portfolios or showcases (where applicable) can further enhance an application. Additionally, applying to a range of schools and being authentic in the application process are key strategies for success. Colleges seek well-rounded individuals who will positively contribute to their communities and value personal qualities beyond academics.
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Ghulam’s Answer
Keep in mind that getting into college isn't just about your grades. Yes, they matter, but the folks who decide who gets in are also on the lookout for people who bring a variety of life experiences and positive traits to the table. They want to build a vibrant, diverse campus community. So, keep doing what you love, keep shining in your studies, and most importantly, stay true to who you are when you apply. Wishing you all the best!
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Jeff’s Answer
Congrats on your educational journey! It sounds like you're well on your way with that GPA, nice job!
A lot of colleges will consider how much you have pushed yourself in high school relative to what your high school offered. For example, did you take advantage of AP courses your high school offered? Did you participate in sports, clubs, leadership activities, volunteering etc?
You might also stand out by demonstrating a real interest in the area of college study you're most interested in. For example, if you're interested in healthcare, did you participate in any healthcare related summer camps? Did you work or volunteer at a local hospital? Did you take elective courses in health care?
Overall I encourage you to pursue that which you're most interested and passionate about, to learn as much as possible!
Good luck!
A lot of colleges will consider how much you have pushed yourself in high school relative to what your high school offered. For example, did you take advantage of AP courses your high school offered? Did you participate in sports, clubs, leadership activities, volunteering etc?
You might also stand out by demonstrating a real interest in the area of college study you're most interested in. For example, if you're interested in healthcare, did you participate in any healthcare related summer camps? Did you work or volunteer at a local hospital? Did you take elective courses in health care?
Overall I encourage you to pursue that which you're most interested and passionate about, to learn as much as possible!
Good luck!
Updated
Celeste’s Answer
First off - you're doing great! You already have a lot of achievements and experience under your belt, especially with volunteering! Something to make you stand out would definitely be writing skills, specifically writing about your club/ volunteering experiences.
Colleges want to make sure they are admitting people who are well-rounded, or have a special story. What drove you to volunteer and be in clubs? Why did you choose AP/ IB/ DC classes as opposed to taking college classes? The experience itself is good, but being able to paint your story and show yourself as an asset to the school is crucial. Highlight your special skills, times you stood out as a leader, and all the other great things that you were able to do through your own power.
Good luck in your writing!
Colleges want to make sure they are admitting people who are well-rounded, or have a special story. What drove you to volunteer and be in clubs? Why did you choose AP/ IB/ DC classes as opposed to taking college classes? The experience itself is good, but being able to paint your story and show yourself as an asset to the school is crucial. Highlight your special skills, times you stood out as a leader, and all the other great things that you were able to do through your own power.
Good luck in your writing!