As the college admissions process becomes more competitive every year, applicants are constantly seeking ways to stand out from the crowd. However, the approach of focusing on hard work and test scores may not be as effective as many students believe. In fact, selective universities are looking for applicants who are passionate about learning and exploration, rather than just those who have achieved high test scores through hard work.
Some common mistakes
- One common mistake that students make is writing about their test scores in their admissions essays. While strong test scores can be impressive, they do not necessarily reflect a student’s personality, interests, or values. Admissions officers want to get to know the applicant as a person, not just as a test score. Therefore, it is important to focus on other aspects of the application that showcase a student’s unique qualities and experiences.
- Furthermore, the notion of sheer hard work alone is insufficient to impress discerning universities. Although it is crucial to exhibit commitment and steadfastness, institutions seek candidates who exhibit genuine zeal and fervor for a specific subject or area of interest. This passion should be evident in the essays, recommendations, and extracurricular activities of the application.
- Writing about achieving a perfect ACT score during the pandemic is not enough to impress selective universities. Instead, applicants should focus on showcasing their passion for a particular subject or topic, such as literature, and how it has shaped their worldview. This approach allows for a more compelling and unique essay that highlights the applicant’s personality and interests.
What are selective universities looking for?
Selective universities are looking for applicants who are curious, passionate, and engaged in the world around them. While achieving high test scores is still important, it is not enough to impress admissions officers. Instead, students should focus on exploring their interests, participating in meaningful extracurricular activities, and writing essays that showcase their unique perspectives and personalities. By doing so, they will increase their chances of being accepted to the universities of their dreams.
Intellectual curiosity and critical thinking skills
In addition to demonstrating passion and engagement, applicants to selective universities should also aim to showcase their intellectual curiosity and critical thinking skills. Admissions officers are looking for students who are eager to learn and who can contribute to the academic community. Thus, emphasizing research projects, independent study courses, or other academic pursuits that showcase intellectual curiosity and initiative is crucial.
Contribution to campus community
Furthermore, selective universities are looking for students who will be active members of their campus community. This means that extracurricular activities, community service, and leadership experiences are all important components of the application. Admissions officers want to see that the applicant has a track record of making a positive impact in their community and has the potential to continue doing so on campus. Ultimately, the key to a successful application is to showcase a well-rounded, unique perspective. Selective universities want to hear about what makes the applicant stand out, what makes them excited to learn and explore, and what they can contribute to the academic and social communities on campus. By focusing on these aspects of the application, students can increase their chances of being accepted to their top-choice universities.
Self-awareness
It’s also important for applicants to show a sense of self-awareness and reflection in their application. Admissions officers want to see that the applicant has thought deeply about their experiences and how they have shaped their perspectives and aspirations. This can be demonstrated through thoughtful and introspective essays, as well as in the letters of recommendation from teachers, counsellors, or mentors who can speak to the applicant’s character and personal growth.
Sense of purpose
Furthermore, selective universities are looking for students who have a sense of purpose and direction. This doesn’t mean that applicants need to have their entire future mapped out, but they should be able to articulate their goals and how the university will help them achieve those goals. Whether it’s pursuing a particular major, conducting research in a specific field, or contributing to a particular cause or organisation on campus, applicants should have a clear idea of what they want to accomplish during their time at the university.
A well-rounded approach
Applicants should remember that the admissions process is holistic, meaning that admissions officers will consider all aspects of the application when making their decision. This includes grades, test scores, essays, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and any other relevant factors. Therefore, it’s important to approach the application process with a well-rounded and thoughtful approach that showcases the applicant’s strengths and unique qualities.
Make your application stand out with Rostrum
At Rostrum, we believe that while hard work and high test scores are important, they are not the only factors that selective universities are looking for in applicants. Applicants should focus on demonstrating their passion, engagement, intellectual curiosity, leadership, community service, and sense of purpose in their application. By showcasing their unique qualities and perspectives, applicants can increase their chances of being accepted to their top-choice universities. Our mentors can help you with all of this and more. To know more, schedule a free consultation today.
