Hey all, I'm a junior in high school, and it's been my dream to go to Cornell. I'm pretty close to a 4.0 GPA and I've been working hard on my extracurriculars. Any pointers on how I can stand out in the admissions process?
Cornell University is known for its competitive admissions process. Having a near 4.0 GPA means you're on the right track, but that only covers the academic aspect. Beyond academics, you want to showcase unique qualities and activities.
Cornell's colleges and schools all have specific qualities they look for in applicants. For instance, if you're applying to the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, you'd want to emphasize your passion for environmental conservation or agricultural science, and share any related initiatives, projects, or leadership roles.
When it comes to extracurricular activities, quality outweighs quantity. Instead of being a member in numerous clubs, it would be more advantageous to show deep involvement/leadership in a select few activities, preferably related to your intended area of study. Take part in activities that truly resonate with you, rather than just those that seem "prestigious" or "impressive". Cornell, like many universities, employs a system called the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars, to judge applicants' extracurricular involvement. Tier 1 and Tier 2 activities typically impress admissions officers more.
Moreover, your essays are a great opportunity to share your story in an authentic and compelling manner. Avoid falling into cliche topics. Instead, highlight key life experiences that have shaped you and articulate why Cornell's programs are a perfect fit for your career aspirations. Remember, essays are not just about writing skills, they're also an opportunity to show who you are beyond your stats.
Lastly, keep in mind Cornell University has returned to requiring standardized test scores for the 2024-2025 application cycle. If you haven't done so already, consider preparing for and taking the SAT or ACT. While a strong score isn't the end-all-be-all, it can certainly boost your application, especially when it's complemented by strong academics and extracurriculars.
Best of luck with your Cornell application!
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