Hey everyone! I'm a junior and I've been hearing a lot of different things about what colleges actually look for in applicants. I know GPA and test scores are important, but I'm curious about other factors like extracurriculars, essays, and letters of recommendation. Can anyone share their experiences or insights on this? Thanks in advance!
Hey there! As a parent who recently went through the college application process with my child, I can share some insights based on our experience. You're right that GPA and test scores are important, but colleges also consider other factors to get a well-rounded view of applicants. Extracurriculars, for example, are a great way to showcase your passions outside of academics. Colleges like to see a good balance between academic achievements and personal interests, so definitely keep pursuing your hobbies and participating in clubs or organizations you're passionate about. Essays, on the other hand, give admissions officers a glimpse into your personality, values, and potential contribution to the college community. Make sure to spend ample time crafting a strong, well-written essay that reflects who you are. Finally, letters of recommendation are important because they provide an external perspective on your abilities and character. Choose teachers or mentors who know you well and can speak to your strengths. To sum it up, while GPA and test scores are important, colleges also care about getting to know you as a person through your extracurriculars, essays, and letters of recommendation. Best of luck with your college applications!
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