As the deadlines for early decision and early action programs approach, I thought it would be helpful to share some tips that could help high school seniors stand out among the applicants for the class of 2024.
- Write a Memorable Essay
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Every college emphasizes the importance of a good essay. After looking over your grades and standardized test scores, admissions officers will look at your essay to get a sense of your personality. The essay is your chance to convey an important story, your hobbies, your values or anything else that gives readers a sense of who you are as a person.
- Take Advantage of the Opportunity to Interview
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While the essay gives admissions officers a glimpse of how you convey yourself on paper, the interview allows you to showcase your interpersonal communication skills. Be poised, attentive, polite and enthusiastic! The interview is your chance to make your essay come to life through conversation.
- Get Your Application in Early
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Now, I’m not suggesting that you rush to get your application in. This is simply to say that, if you’ve done your best work and have given it adequate time and attention, there’s no point in waiting to click ‘submit!’ Many colleges review applications on a rolling basis, so, even if you’ve finished two months before the deadline, send it in.
Regardless of whether or not you follow these tips, the most important thing to remember throughout the application process is to be authentic. You’ve almost certainly heard the phrase ‘be yourself’ in at least one of those countless info sessions you’ve attended. When admissions officers say this, they really do mean it. Your goal throughout this process should be to recognize your strengths and weaknesses and to find a school that will help you work on both. As long as you portray a true, authentic version of yourself, you have nothing to worry about. You’ll be attending a school well-suited for you in no time.