College admissions have become highly competitive. An increasing number of high school students are applying to college and many of them have outstanding grades and test scores. That has, in fact, become the baseline for college applications. You need to have good grades and high test scores just to be considered for the interview. But it is not enough to get admission into any college.
With so many outstanding applicants to choose from, colleges have also become highly selective and are looking for something more. They are looking for applicants who can show them that they are the brightest and best and more importantly, the right fit for their institution. Here are 3 ways you can do just that.
Right Fit: Participate In Extracurricular Activities
Participating in an extracurricular activity, whether it is related to sports, theater, music, or the community, will help to boost your college application. It shows that you are a well-rounded individual with a wide range of interests and great time-management skills. Most colleges prefer to admit multi-faceted students have the ability to handle multiple responsibilities. There is a lesser chance that these students will burn out and a higher chance that they will excel, both academically and in their other areas of interest too.
The key here is to choose one or two activities and work at improving your skills in your chosen activities. Jumping from one activity to another without spending too much time at any is not looked upon favorably.
Write a Compelling Essay
Your college application essay plays a significant role in the admissions process. The admissions officers are sure to go through your essay thoroughly looking for something unique, something that sets you apart from the others. Most students struggle with this aspect. What can they write that is unique and will put them ahead of the competition?
Think about this before you start writing your essay. You could talk about an experience that changed you in some way, an unusual hobby, or talent or an accomplishment that you are proud of. Choose any one thing and make that the focus of your essay. Whatever you decide to talk about, it is important to highlight what you learned from it and how it helped you grow. The aim is to emphasize that you are always learning.
Develop Your Social Media Presence
There’s no better way to highlight your skills, experiences, thoughts, and goals than through your social media pages. Facebook is great to start with.
Use Facebook strategically. Keep posting images and statuses that showcase your various accomplishments and your participation in different activities. Talk about your goals and what you are doing to get there. Post links to relevant news items. Keep the account professional and positive and avoid polarizing or controversial topics—or at the very least be respectful.
Your extracurricular activities, personal essay, and social media presence are the most powerful ways to show college admissions that you are the right fit. Use them to your advantage.
Use College Raptor to discover personalized college matches, cost estimates, acceptance odds, and potential financial aid for schools around the US—for FREE!
