Syracuse University: What Should I Prioritize?

Hi there! I'm in my junior year and I'm really interested in Syracuse University. Can anyone share some tips on what I should focus on to make my application stand out? I'm a little bit stressed trying to balance everything, so any guidance would be appreciated!

I completely understand that balancing everything can be stressful, but I'm happy to provide some guidance on what areas to prioritize when applying to Syracuse University. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Academic Performance: Maintain strong grades in a rigorous course load. Aim to take some honors or Advanced Placement (AP) courses that are available at your school, as this will demonstrate your commitment to challenging yourself academically.

2. Test Scores: Syracuse University is currently test-optional in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, if you feel that your SAT or ACT scores can further enhance your application, consider investing time in test preparation. Keep in mind that strong test scores can also open up other scholarship opportunities.

3. Extracurricular Involvement: Syracuse values well-rounded students who are involved in their communities. Make sure to pursue meaningful extracurricular activities that align with your interests and demonstrate your commitment, passion, and leadership qualities. Aim for depth rather than breadth—being highly involved in a few activities is better than being minimally involved in many.

4. Essays: Work on crafting a strong personal statement and supplemental essays that showcase your unique voice, experiences, and fit with the university. Start early, revise multiple times, and ask for feedback from teachers, family members, and friends. Syracuse has a few specific supplemental essay prompts you'll need to address, so be sure to answer them thoughtfully and with relevant examples.

5. Letters of Recommendation: Request letters from teachers or other adults who know you well and can speak to your character, work ethic, and commitment to learning. Give them ample time to write the recommendation—usually at least a month before the application deadline—and provide them with important information about you and the school to help them write a strong letter.

Remember, although building a strong application is important, don't forget to take care of yourself and make time for relaxation and self-care. Good luck as you continue your journey towards Syracuse University!