Hello guys, I'm wondering—other than a high GPA and SAT scores, how can I stand out to colleges? I'm involved in a few extracurriculars and do some volunteering, but is there anything else I should be doing?
Sure, besides academics and test scores, colleges are very interested in how students engage outside of the classroom—it helps them understand what you might contribute to their campus community.
Start by assessing your extracurricular involvement. Top colleges typically look for students who are highly-involved in 8-10 activities, but quality always reigns over quantity. Aim towards becoming more deeply involved in a few activities where your interest lies, and try to gain a leadership role. When colleges look at your extracurriculars, they use something called the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars. Clubs or sports where you hold leadership roles, like being captain of a sports team or president of a club, fall into Tier 3.
Beyond this, colleges love to see applicants who demonstrate a highly-developed specialty, also called an "academic spike." This refers to a student's intense focus and achievement in one particular area which shows their dedication and stick-to-itiveness. For example, if you're interested in physics and have been performing well in physics competitions or doing original research, that's an academic spike.
Additionally, consider seeking out summer enrichment opportunities that align with your interests and career goals. These could include internships, research opportunities, or even selective summer programs. Remember, the best summer programs are free or low-cost and selective, not the high-cost "pay-to-play" programs.
Finally, your essays are another important way to stand out. They should provide insight into your passions, your personality, and the unique perspective you'll bring to campus. Be sure to steer clear of cliché topics though. The best essays provide a singular focus on a pivotal moment or phase in your life that shaped who you are.
In sum, your goal should be to build an application that shows colleges an authentic image of who you are and what you can bring to their campus. Your interests, activities, and essays should weave together into a narrative that sets you apart from other applicants.
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