Tips for the Pomona College application?

Hi everyone! I'm applying to Pomona College and was curious if any of you have specific tips or insight into the application process. What are some key factors that would make my application stand out?

Hello! Pomona College is a great choice, and it's fantastic that you're considering it. Here are some tips to make your application stand out:

1. Academic excellence: Pomona College is a highly selective institution, so maintaining a strong academic performance is crucial. Competitive applicants have a high GPA, background in rigorous academic coursework, and strong test scores. Although Pomona is officially test-optional, at an institution this selective you want to put as many gold stars on your application as possible. CollegeVine's blog contains a helpful overview of how to navigate test-optional policies: https://blog.collegevine.com/does-test-optional-mean-test-optional/.

2. Demonstrate passion for your major: If you already have some sense of what you'd like to study, be sure that it's something that genuinely interests you and reflects your strengths. Try conveying your excitement for the field by including relevant experiences in your activities list or essays, like internships or research projects, that showcase your knowledge of and dedication to the field.

3. Highlight extracurricular involvement: Pomona values well-rounded students who contribute to their community in meaningful ways. Develop a strong extracurricular profile by participating in several Tier 2 and 3 activities (if you'd like to learn more about extracurricular tiers, CollegeVine's blog has a helpful breakdown: https://blog.collegevine.com/breaking-down-the-4-tiers-of-extracurricular-activities). Aim to demonstrate a consistent commitment to your interests and exhibit leadership skills whenever possible.

4. Unique and engaging essays: The supplemental essays are a critical aspect of the Pomona application, as they allow you to exhibit how your unique personality and perspective align with the values and culture of the school. If you want to read up on how to tackle Pomona's current supplemental essay prompts, you can find detailed guidance on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-pomona-college-essays.

5. Show interest in their programs and resources: Research Pomona's academic programs, extracurricular clubs, and campus resources, and express a genuine interest in these offerings in your essays or interview (if offered one). You can highlight how specific resources will allow you to fulfill your career and personal goals, or mention exciting opportunities that you would like to use to broaden your horizons during your time at Pomona.

6. Strong letters of recommendation: Choose recommenders who know you well and can provide specific examples of your character, work ethic, and growth. For example, recommenders should be able to speak about your leadership skills and potential impact within the Pomona College community.

7. Engage with Pomona: Attend virtual information sessions, college fairs, or connect with the admissions office and Pomona alumni. While these interactions are unlikely to significantly boost your chances of acceptance, they can help you learn more about the college, which can help you put together a strong application and eventually aid you with your decision-making process if you're ultimately accepted.

Remember that Pomona practices holistic admissions, so all aspects of your application will be considered during the review process. So, you want everything to be as polished as possible, rather than spending all your time on just one thing. Best of luck with your application!