Spike theory
Hi guys!
I'm applying to some Ivy Leagues, and while poking around, I discovered something called Spike Theory for students applying to top-tier institutions. The theory deals with how students are drawn into the misconception that being well-rounded makes you a better candidate for acceptance. According to Spike Theory, it's much more important to create a "spike" in your academics or extracurriculars where you have a few outstanding achievements in one thing rather than a host of mediocre achievements in other things.
Don't freak out if you're well-rounded, though, because I am too. Colleges don't necessarily need you to be world-class in something, but you show show marked interest in a specific area (most commonly the area you hope to pursue in college). For me, I was a bit nervous hearing this, because I do three sports, an instrument, and 4 clubs on top of a part time job. If this sounds like you, don't worry! Colleges still love seeing that you're interested in multiple things. However, if you can, try to stack more achievements/experiences in one part of your life. Not sure how to do this? Here's what I did.
I love the environment, and I plan on studying environmental biology in college. So, I interviewed for a research initiative through my school, became part of the Environmental club, and connected my participation in Girls State to the positions I ran for (Environmental Conservation Committee Co-Chair, Commissioner for Environmental Conservation). Moreover, I connected my love for the environment to advocacy through a movement I started during COVID-19 to reinstate snow days (if you're from a southern area, this is when is snows so much that we can't have school. Our school decided to do remote learning days instead of allowing students and staff mental health days). Sound difficult? Yeah. Yeah it does. But even small things, like volunteering at an organization related to your prospective field can show colleges that you're committed. My advice to you: don't let time get in your way. If you're doing it to fill time, choose something else.
Whether you're applying to an Ivy League or a state school, applying yourself in only one area can sound limiting. But, there are ways to create a "spike" that don't necessarily have to be.
I hope this helped anyone who's applying to college, and let me know if you agree with Spike Theory!!
I want to point out that being well rounded is not good. You don't want to be mediocre at everything. Having a bunch of random clubs and activities could be well rounded. However, even with that you can mold it into a spike. For example, I linked by expereinces at the National Speech and Debate Tournament with empirics to relate to my math major. You really want to dovelop a spike, or somehow articulate from your activities to create one.
Also, just pointing out that you are not "well-rounded." You have a clear story in the passion for the environment. This is what others need to somehow create.
Finally, there is a reason that they choose remote over "snow days;" Teachers need to make up more content the next days and they will be forced (as will you) to complete another day of school for each missed (to meet the 180 day req.). I promise you, as kids we don't see it, but as a student who lived in New York, it was super frustrating to need to go to an additional 1.5 weeks of school after it officially ended. Also, be happy they give you the opportunity to learn! Wouldn't reccomend this as an essay topic as it shows schools you would rather ski that pursue learning.
Other than that, I mostly agree with your points. Best of luck to all!
Thanks so much for pointing that out--I did hear that a lot from other students, but our district had already met the quota by eliminating our spring break...the snow day ban was on top of that. I think the district was more concerned about keeping students who were struggling in the extremes in school (only a few compared with the amount affected by the ban). I have written an essay about this, but I'll keep your suggestions in mind to avoid coming across the wrong way. Thanks again!!
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