So, I'm a junior now and I'm seriously stressing out about college admissions. Cornell's my dream school but I've heard it's pretty hard to get in. Is it really so? And if so, what could possibly make my application stand out?
Sure, it can be nerve-wracking to aim for your dream school, especially when it's a highly selective school like Cornell. But remember, no dream is too big if you work hard for it! Getting into such a school is indeed competitive, but it's certainly not impossible.
Creating a standout application involves demonstrating excellence in academic rigor, which is reflected in high GPA, tough course load, rigorous AP coursework, and strong SAT/ACT scores, although remember Cornell is test-optional for this 2024-2025 application cycle.
However, these scores and grades are just the first hurdle. What will truly make your application stand out are your essays and your extracurriculars. Are you engaging in activities outside of school that demonstrate your passion for your intended major? For example, if you're aiming for a Biology major, STEM-based extracurriculars or internships show your focused interest in that area.
Cornell is looking for students who have a strong "spike," an area where you have shown an exceptional level of dedication and achievement. This could be anything from debate competitions to research publications, depending on what you're passionate about. Remember, they value quality over quantity, so it's better to be deeply involved in a few activities than superficially involved in many.
For essays, the key is to show not just tell. Rather than stating that you're passionate about a subject, provide examples of how you pursued that interest and what you've learned. Avoid falling into cliche essay topics and remember, it's not the experience itself but what it meant to you and how it shaped you that really interests the reviewers.
Lastly, make sure that you clearly articulate why Cornell is a good fit for you specifically - that means demonstrating a deep knowledge of the specific curriculum, resources, and opportunities at Cornell that align with your interests and goals.
It will be challenging, but with dedication and authenticity, you stand a chance. Good luck!
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