What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
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UCLA
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Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

How do I stand out in a highly competitive applicant pool?

Hey everyone! I'm a high school junior, and I know that college admissions can be incredibly competitive. I'm wondering what I can do to stand out among all the other applicants, especially for top-tier schools. Are there any unique extracurriculars, essay topics, or other factors that can help set me apart? Thanks for any tips you can share!

a year ago

Hey there! I can definitely understand your concern about standing out in a competitive applicant pool. My child recently went through the same process, so I have a few tips to share. First and foremost, focus on your passions and interests. Colleges are looking for genuine people who are deeply committed to their hobbies or fields of study. Engage in extracurricular activities that genuinely interest you and try to take on leadership roles to demonstrate your dedication and growth. Additionally, consider engaging in community service or volunteering, as these experiences can show your commitment to making a positive impact. As for your college essays, the key is to be authentic and introspective. Top-tier schools receive countless essays about common topics like sports victories or community service trips. Instead, try to choose a more personal topic that highlights your unique experiences, thoughts, or values. Lastly, don't forget the importance of a strong academic record and standardized test scores. While these aren't the only factors considered by top-tier schools, they do play a significant role in the admissions process. Ultimately, the best way to stand out is to be true to yourself and let your personality, passion, and dedication shine through in every aspect of your application. Best of luck!

a year ago

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