A rigorous course schedule through high school is important. Good grades are key. High SAT/ACT test scores certainly don't hurt. But what else are colleges looking for in students?
Genuine interest in the school
Colleges want students who show genuine and well-researched interest in their school. "A student who has gone beyond name recognition and reputation and has decided that the university's programs and environment are right for them is the ideal," says Andrew Bryan, a certified educational consultant at The Academic Institute, Inc.
Making concrete connections between what you want out of your education and what the college or university has to offer shows that you've done your homework. "Direct references to courses, programs or other academic opportunities demonstrate a level of interest that will immediately set a student apart in a crowd," says Scott Anderson, former admissions officer at Cornell University.
Interest in coursework
You need to demonstrate the same authentic interest in your proposed course of study.
"While admission officers want to hear about what kids want to study, the students are much more interested in telling us what they want to be. Lawyers. Doctors. Veterinarians. Investment bankers." Anderson says. "These professional goals are fine, but the reality is that law, medicine, and the like are not topics you can study as an undergraduate,"
Colleges would rather hear about the work you'll do before you enter the work world - such as your interest in geometry, philosophy, Peruvian literature or genetics.
Extracurricular activities
While academics are key, colleges also want students who will enhance their campus community in some special way. They seek students who will be leaders, communicators and active members of their college community. "We look for interesting volunteer work, internships, athletic achievement and other good extracurricular activities when we evaluate a student," says Kate Wells, former admissions officer at State University of New York College at Potsdam.
But don't start joining organizations by the dozen for appearance's sake. "In-depth participation in one or two extracurricular activities is preferred over superficial membership in many," says Diane E. Epstein, a certified educational consultant.
That extra "something"
With all the qualified applications coming in, colleges are frequently looking for the elusive extra "something" that can set a student apart from the crowd. This can be any number of things: job experience, involvement with a certain group or even the extra enthusiasm or thought that a student puts into their essay.
That extra "something" can also be an obstacle overcome: financial hardship, English as a second language, serious health problems. "Something special a kid has overcome will make them appealing," says Sue Bigg, a Chicago-based educational consultant.
Finding the right match
When admissions officers review your application, they'll be looking to make a good match. You need to show them that you've chosen them for the right reasons. At the same time, try to show colleges your "real" self.
If you offer a glimpse of the individual behind the grades and the test scores, you'll help the admissions officers make your perfect college match.
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