2 answers
Olivia
Student
Savannah, Georgia
6
Questions
Asked
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What do colleges really look for in a student and their work?
I'm trying to get a grasp as to how and what I should work towards when I start really working on getting into colleges.
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2 answers
Jennifer Jackson
Film Director
79
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Olivia,
Colleges examine several key factors when evaluating prospective students and their work:
1. Academic Record: Admissions officers consider a student's high school GPA, the rigor of their coursework, and their performance in classes. Consistent academic achievement and a challenging course load are often highly regarded.
2. Standardized Test Scores: While some colleges have moved towards test-optional policies, many still consider SAT or ACT scores as part of their evaluation process. Students should aim to achieve competitive scores, if required by the institutions to which they are applying.
3. Extracurricular Activities: Involvement in extracurricular activities, such as clubs, sports, volunteer work, and leadership roles, can showcase a student's interests, passions, and commitment outside of academics.
4. Essays and Personal Statements: These provide an opportunity for students to convey their personality, experiences, and aspirations. Authentic and well-crafted essays can greatly impact the admissions decision.
5. Letters of Recommendation: Strong letters of recommendation from high school teachers and mentors can provide valuable insights into a student's character, work ethic, and potential for success in college.
6. Demonstrated Interest: Some colleges take into account a student's demonstrated interest in the institution, such as campus visits, interviews, or interactions with admissions representatives.
7. Special Talents: Exceptional skills or talents in areas such as music, visual arts, athletics, or other areas of expertise can be a distinguishing factor in the admissions process.
8. Diversity and Inclusion: Colleges often seek to build diverse and inclusive student bodies, so experiences and perspectives that contribute to diversity may be valued.
When working towards gaining admission to college, students should focus on excelling academically, pursuing meaningful extracurricular activities, and articulating their unique identities, aspirations, and talents through their application materials. It's important to research the specific requirements and preferences of the colleges to which you plan to apply, as each institution may have its own criteria and values. Additionally, seeking advice from college counselors, teachers, and mentors can provide valuable insights and guidance as you navigate the college application process. Philadelphia
Best of Luck!
Jennifer
Colleges examine several key factors when evaluating prospective students and their work:
1. Academic Record: Admissions officers consider a student's high school GPA, the rigor of their coursework, and their performance in classes. Consistent academic achievement and a challenging course load are often highly regarded.
2. Standardized Test Scores: While some colleges have moved towards test-optional policies, many still consider SAT or ACT scores as part of their evaluation process. Students should aim to achieve competitive scores, if required by the institutions to which they are applying.
3. Extracurricular Activities: Involvement in extracurricular activities, such as clubs, sports, volunteer work, and leadership roles, can showcase a student's interests, passions, and commitment outside of academics.
4. Essays and Personal Statements: These provide an opportunity for students to convey their personality, experiences, and aspirations. Authentic and well-crafted essays can greatly impact the admissions decision.
5. Letters of Recommendation: Strong letters of recommendation from high school teachers and mentors can provide valuable insights into a student's character, work ethic, and potential for success in college.
6. Demonstrated Interest: Some colleges take into account a student's demonstrated interest in the institution, such as campus visits, interviews, or interactions with admissions representatives.
7. Special Talents: Exceptional skills or talents in areas such as music, visual arts, athletics, or other areas of expertise can be a distinguishing factor in the admissions process.
8. Diversity and Inclusion: Colleges often seek to build diverse and inclusive student bodies, so experiences and perspectives that contribute to diversity may be valued.
When working towards gaining admission to college, students should focus on excelling academically, pursuing meaningful extracurricular activities, and articulating their unique identities, aspirations, and talents through their application materials. It's important to research the specific requirements and preferences of the colleges to which you plan to apply, as each institution may have its own criteria and values. Additionally, seeking advice from college counselors, teachers, and mentors can provide valuable insights and guidance as you navigate the college application process. Philadelphia
Best of Luck!
Jennifer
Thank you so much!
Olivia
Grace Huckabay
Analyst for State, Local, and Higher Education projects
16
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Grace’s Answer
Hi! Other than test scores and grades, colleges look for unique students. It could help to bring light to any hobbies, topics, or extracurriculars that you're passionate about. Don't rule anything out! It will also help to learn a bit about the school beforehand. If you can bring up a few talking points on what the school offers that you're particularly interested in, your chances of admission will typically increase.