Getting into college is one of the hardest steps you will take during your academic career. Colleges receive thousands of applications each year and your goal should be to stand out. However, this is easier said than done.
Admission officers are not only looking for an outstanding GPA, they are looking for a well-rounded young adult who has challenged themselves in every sense of the word. Ivy League Colleges are some of the toughest to get into, and almost all Ivy League schools have an acceptance rate of under 10%. The current coronavirus pandemic is no excuse to slack on your application, use this to your advantage.
Get Your GPA Up
Although grades aren’t all that you will need to secure a spot at your dream college, having an exceptionally high GPA will do wonders. Try to be active in all of your lessons and really soak up the information. Take effective notes, stay organized, and study to get the grades you deserve. Try joining a study group or hire a tutor if you find yourself struggling. Students on the honor roll and valedictorians are more likely to get into their top school choices.
Write a Unique Personal Essay
Your personal essay is your chance to demonstrate your interests, passions, and why you deserve to get into your dream college. Try and reflect on your story rather than retelling your life. If you need some guidance, feel free to read over some other excellent examples of personal essays but make yours original. Make sure you have an extra pair of eyes to read over the essay for any mistakes. Give yourself enough time to write, read, and edit the essay as it is one of the most important factors in deciding whether you are the right fit for the school.
Expand Your Horizons
Colleges are looking for the cream of the crop and this involves being an accomplished individual. Make sure you invest time into your hobbies as this helps you stand out from the crowd. You may think that this is limited to being captain of the sports team or part of your school’s orchestra. However, hobbies can encompass languages, business, drama, and art. Schools want to know that you lead an active lifestyle and that you are developing an array of skills, not just academic ones. They want to know your passion, don’t gloss over your hobbies, or say that you are a ‘jack of all trades’. Be as authentic as you can.
Get Professional Help
If you are looking for that added boost, there are many resources available to you. One of the easiest ways to secure admission to your dream college is by seeking help from a team of professionals like Going Ivy. Going Ivy College Admissions help your application stand out from the crowd. Many of the professionals in prep groups are experts in the field of college admissions and some were even admission officers in their past jobs. Believe in yourself and work hard to make your dreams a reality.
Photo: Malgorzata Bujalska, Unsplash