8 answers
Naqiyah
Student
Rocky Mount, North Carolina
2
Questions
Asked
990 views
How do create a compelling identity for my college applications ?
Even if I don’t know for certain what I want to major in ?
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8 answers
Sharon Mei
Consultant
5
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Sharon’s Answer
It's crucial to present your authentic self to colleges, not only to secure admission but also to thrive once you're enrolled. College admissions officers are adept at spotting any hint of pretense. Instead, consider pondering the following questions:
* Which courses or activities energize you and align with your personality? This will guide you in determining your college focus.
* What achievements, such as academic or extracurricular accomplishments, fill you with pride? This will assist you in narrating your story, beginning with your high points.
* What motivates you to pursue your daily activities? What sparks your excitement each morning? This will enable you to share more about your personal motivations in your admissions essay.
Ensure that your final application genuinely represents you and your aspirations for personal growth during college. Trust the process and believe that you will find the best fit because you've honestly communicated who you are. Wishing you all the best!
* Which courses or activities energize you and align with your personality? This will guide you in determining your college focus.
* What achievements, such as academic or extracurricular accomplishments, fill you with pride? This will assist you in narrating your story, beginning with your high points.
* What motivates you to pursue your daily activities? What sparks your excitement each morning? This will enable you to share more about your personal motivations in your admissions essay.
Ensure that your final application genuinely represents you and your aspirations for personal growth during college. Trust the process and believe that you will find the best fit because you've honestly communicated who you are. Wishing you all the best!
Alex Turney
Ecommerce / Product Management
27
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Alex’s Answer
Great question! This was one of my top questions when going through the process 8 years ago.
The best advice I got was to really put yourself in the shoes of someone who is reading applications. You are reading thousands of applications for students that largely have a very similar background. My recommendation is that you cultivate your passions and then really focus on those interests in your application. This helps you stand out and helps the reader understand the unique perspective you can bring to their university. Most schools are strong advocates for diversity of opinions and want to create a community that is vibrant.
For me, when I was high school I was very passionate about the photography and also cared a lot about the ocean and protecting it. I took those inherent passions and fused them to create an application centered around how I had used photography to raise awareness around pollution in the ocean and how that made me want to study environmental science. This helped me get into the top public university in the world.
Once, I got to school i ended up actually changing my major because my interests changed, which is totally okay and normal.
This is just one viewpoint and one way to approach the process. Hope this helps!
The best advice I got was to really put yourself in the shoes of someone who is reading applications. You are reading thousands of applications for students that largely have a very similar background. My recommendation is that you cultivate your passions and then really focus on those interests in your application. This helps you stand out and helps the reader understand the unique perspective you can bring to their university. Most schools are strong advocates for diversity of opinions and want to create a community that is vibrant.
For me, when I was high school I was very passionate about the photography and also cared a lot about the ocean and protecting it. I took those inherent passions and fused them to create an application centered around how I had used photography to raise awareness around pollution in the ocean and how that made me want to study environmental science. This helped me get into the top public university in the world.
Once, I got to school i ended up actually changing my major because my interests changed, which is totally okay and normal.
This is just one viewpoint and one way to approach the process. Hope this helps!
Katherine L
45
Answers
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
Hi! You could start by sharing your personal journey and significant life experiences that have shaped your values and character. Highlight your strengths, achievements, and leadership roles, using specific examples to illustrate your unique qualities. Tailor your application to each college by researching their values and culture, explaining why you'd be a good fit, and how you can contribute to their community. What's more, be sure to express your diverse interests and passions, as colleges typically appreciate students with a broad range of experiences. You may address your uncertainty about your major by explaining your willingness to explore different fields and how the college's resources can help you make an informed decision. In your personal statement, tie together your experiences, values, and aspirations, showcasing your identity and enthusiasm for the college experience. Choose recommenders who can speak to your character, and if interviews are offered, use them as an opportunity to express your personality and enthusiasm for learning. Just remember to show your authenticity and a willingness to learn and grow, as these qualities are highly valued by admissions officers. All the best luck!:)
Shelisa Henley
Child Psychologist
44
Answers
Warner Robins, Georgia
Updated
Shelisa’s Answer
Good Morning!!! Cool Kids!!!!
Thank you for your Question!!
It is A Star!!
There was a time, when I was not sure what I wanted to become!.I can read!! Is what I told myself . That was the only thing I could do!
Well ,that was until , I took one last at me before I left for College! On the Application , I remember I was Who Who's Among High School Students Recipient!!! Added Awards And Community Service to the Application! I figured this was a way for me to showcase I was worth alot!! Love God and love me!!!
Hope this helps!!!
Good Luck🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
Thank you for your Question!!
It is A Star!!
There was a time, when I was not sure what I wanted to become!.I can read!! Is what I told myself . That was the only thing I could do!
Well ,that was until , I took one last at me before I left for College! On the Application , I remember I was Who Who's Among High School Students Recipient!!! Added Awards And Community Service to the Application! I figured this was a way for me to showcase I was worth alot!! Love God and love me!!!
Hope this helps!!!
Good Luck🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
Karen Kitchel
Community Volunteer
355
Answers
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Updated
Karen’s Answer
Suggest you think about what makes you unique from others -- might be a skill you have, various places you have lived or visited, volunteer activities you've participated in or things you've done that set you apart. Try to give examples of the impact these things have had on you. For example, if you've served a meal to the homeless, how did that influence your view of various people in your community. Maybe you have a skill for public speaking which you've demonstrated in a high school speech. Possibilities are endless if you take time to think about your entire life and represent yourself in the best light.
With every good wish.
With every good wish.
Alan Weber
writer and retired teacher, teacher educator and academic advisor
207
Answers
Woodstock, New York
Updated
Alan’s Answer
Naqiyah, the fact that you're not sure what you want to major in shouldn't hamper your application. Instead, you could mention your most possible ambitions and the skills you bring to achieve them. Your most compelling "identity" is you. Don't try to reinvent or hard sell yourself, be genuine and write it with your unique style. Include any hardships you've faced and overcome, any experiences that uniquely prepare you for college or make you a unique asset to their community, the values that you hold dearest, the people who have inspired you, and any short anecdotes or deep thoughts that help the readers see who you are. Make it enjoyably readable, and don't be afraid to use humor or colorful, creative touches while still being serious and disciplined. And proofread, proofread, proofread, for effective organization as well as spelling, grammar, punctuation, sentence structure and typos.
I really appreciate your response . It truly means a lot to me and will stick with me when I apply to colleges in the future.
Naqiyah
Mackenzie Ward
associate
103
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Mackenzie’s Answer
Creating a compelling identity for your college applications involves showcasing your unique qualities, experiences, and interests in a way that makes you stand out from other applicants. Here are some tips to help you craft a compelling identity:
Self-Reflection:
Start by reflecting on your values, interests, strengths, and experiences. What sets you apart from other applicants? What are your goals and aspirations? Knowing yourself well is the foundation of a compelling identity.
Choose Meaningful Activities:
Select extracurricular activities, volunteer work, internships, and part-time jobs that genuinely interest you and align with your goals. Quality is more important than quantity. Admissions officers look for dedication and passion.
Leadership and Initiative:
Showcase instances where you took the initiative or demonstrated leadership. Colleges value students who can make a positive impact on campus.
Academic Achievements:
Highlight your academic achievements, including honors, awards, advanced courses, and independent projects. Explain how these accomplishments reflect your commitment to learning.
Personal Statement:
Write a compelling personal statement that tells your story. Share meaningful experiences, challenges you've overcome, and how they've shaped your character and goals. Be authentic and honest in your writing.
Letters of Recommendation:
Choose recommenders who know you well and can provide specific examples of your abilities and character. Share your goals and interests with them to help them write stronger letters.
Diversity and Perspective:
If you bring diversity to the college community, whether through your background, experiences, or perspectives, emphasize this in your application. Colleges value a diverse student body.
Passion Projects:
If you have a passion project or a unique hobby, mention it in your application. Explain how this pursuit reflects your interests and dedication.
Impactful Experiences:
Describe any experiences where you made a positive impact on your community, school, or a particular group of people. Admissions officers appreciate applicants who are change-makers.
Use of Language:
Use descriptive language that paints a vivid picture of your experiences and values. Show, don't just tell, why you're a good fit for the college.
Demonstrate Growth:
If you've faced challenges or setbacks, discuss how you've grown from these experiences. Admissions officers appreciate resilience and the ability to learn from adversity.
Edit and Proofread:
Carefully edit and proofread all application materials, including essays, to ensure they are clear, error-free, and well-structured.
Be Unique:
Avoid clichés and generic statements. Instead, focus on what makes you one-of-a-kind. What experiences or qualities make you different from other applicants?
Consistency:
Ensure that your application materials are consistent. Your essays, recommendations, and activities should align with the narrative you're presenting.
Show Enthusiasm:
Express genuine enthusiasm for the college and its programs. Explain why you're a great fit for that specific institution.
Seek Feedback:
Ask teachers, mentors, or family members to review your application materials and provide feedback. Fresh perspectives can be valuable.
Interview Preparation:
If interviews are part of the college application process, practice your interviewing skills. Be prepared to discuss your experiences and aspirations confidently.
Remember that a compelling identity doesn't mean trying to be someone you're not; it's about authentically representing who you are and what you can bring to the college community. Admissions officers are looking for students who will contribute to the campus culture and thrive academically. Be yourself and let your unique qualities shine through in your application.
Self-Reflection:
Start by reflecting on your values, interests, strengths, and experiences. What sets you apart from other applicants? What are your goals and aspirations? Knowing yourself well is the foundation of a compelling identity.
Choose Meaningful Activities:
Select extracurricular activities, volunteer work, internships, and part-time jobs that genuinely interest you and align with your goals. Quality is more important than quantity. Admissions officers look for dedication and passion.
Leadership and Initiative:
Showcase instances where you took the initiative or demonstrated leadership. Colleges value students who can make a positive impact on campus.
Academic Achievements:
Highlight your academic achievements, including honors, awards, advanced courses, and independent projects. Explain how these accomplishments reflect your commitment to learning.
Personal Statement:
Write a compelling personal statement that tells your story. Share meaningful experiences, challenges you've overcome, and how they've shaped your character and goals. Be authentic and honest in your writing.
Letters of Recommendation:
Choose recommenders who know you well and can provide specific examples of your abilities and character. Share your goals and interests with them to help them write stronger letters.
Diversity and Perspective:
If you bring diversity to the college community, whether through your background, experiences, or perspectives, emphasize this in your application. Colleges value a diverse student body.
Passion Projects:
If you have a passion project or a unique hobby, mention it in your application. Explain how this pursuit reflects your interests and dedication.
Impactful Experiences:
Describe any experiences where you made a positive impact on your community, school, or a particular group of people. Admissions officers appreciate applicants who are change-makers.
Use of Language:
Use descriptive language that paints a vivid picture of your experiences and values. Show, don't just tell, why you're a good fit for the college.
Demonstrate Growth:
If you've faced challenges or setbacks, discuss how you've grown from these experiences. Admissions officers appreciate resilience and the ability to learn from adversity.
Edit and Proofread:
Carefully edit and proofread all application materials, including essays, to ensure they are clear, error-free, and well-structured.
Be Unique:
Avoid clichés and generic statements. Instead, focus on what makes you one-of-a-kind. What experiences or qualities make you different from other applicants?
Consistency:
Ensure that your application materials are consistent. Your essays, recommendations, and activities should align with the narrative you're presenting.
Show Enthusiasm:
Express genuine enthusiasm for the college and its programs. Explain why you're a great fit for that specific institution.
Seek Feedback:
Ask teachers, mentors, or family members to review your application materials and provide feedback. Fresh perspectives can be valuable.
Interview Preparation:
If interviews are part of the college application process, practice your interviewing skills. Be prepared to discuss your experiences and aspirations confidently.
Remember that a compelling identity doesn't mean trying to be someone you're not; it's about authentically representing who you are and what you can bring to the college community. Admissions officers are looking for students who will contribute to the campus culture and thrive academically. Be yourself and let your unique qualities shine through in your application.
Kasia Duda
User Experience Designer
3
Answers
Castle Rock, Colorado
Updated
Kasia’s Answer
Hi! Great Question. Encourage your friends and family to pen down a brief paragraph highlighting your wonderful qualities. Spend some time introspecting about your hobbies and the unique traits that define you.