In the Mind of the Admission Committee

Hey all, as a junior, I'm starting to get kind of stressed about college apps, specifically about how my application will be perceived. What exactly do admission committees look for in a student's application? How can I stand out among the thousands of other applicants?

Admissions committees are looking for unique individuals who can contribute something special to their college's community. While good grades and test scores are important, they aren't everything. Personal qualities, passions, talent, leadership potential, and your ability to overcome obstacles also play significant roles.

Your application should tell a cohesive story about who you are and what you can offer to the institution. Colleges are seeking diversity, so your individual perspective and experiences could help your application stand out. Don't try to fit into a mold of what you think colleges want—be genuine and authentic in expressing yourself.

The extracurricular activities you engage in also play a key role in your application. Remember that quality matters more than quantity. Highly selective colleges look for students who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and achievement in a few activities, rather than being mildly involved in many.

Your essays provide an excellent opportunity to showcase your personality, values, and experiences. Choose topics that are deeply personal to you. Try to avoid cliché essay topics unless you have a unique approach or perspective on it. Use your essays to highlight aspects of your background or personality that aren't clearly explained elsewhere in your application.

When deciding which colleges to apply to, research the unique attributes of each school and how they align with your interests and goals. Customize your application to each school by demonstrating your interest and showing how you can contribute to their community.

Keep these points in mind as you shape your applications. The college application process can be stressful, but with thoughtful planning and self-reflection, you can present a compelling story about yourself that will make you stand out.