College Admissions Decoded: Stand Out at Selective Schools
Understand the selection process at selective colleges, where standing out is key. Learn how to enhance your application with challenging curriculum, test scores, essays, and more. Gain insights into the factors that make an applicant attractive to these competitive institutions.
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Presentation Transcript
Selective College Admissions How College Decisions Are Made Mission Bay High School September 24, 2024 Camille Crites, Syracuse University
A school that accepts less than 50% of its applicants is considered selective What does Selective Mean? Some majors may be more selective than others within a university
Selective schools have many applicants; you need to find a way to stand out. Challenging curriculum GPA Test Scores Make Yourself Stand Out Essay Personal background Activities/skills (academic, athletic, musical) What can you offer to the school?
The College Profile Learn the acceptance profile Average GPA, SAT, ACT, Test Optional States/Regions Majors offered Deadlines Expanding or new programs
Types of Application Review Types of Application Review Holistic vs. formula Selective schools tend towards holistic reviews Who Reads your file? By region, HS, alpha, major By admission counselor or committee How many readers per app? Straight Admission vs. Rolling Admission Early Decision vs. Early Action vs. Regular Decision
Curriculum GPA SAT/ACT What is What is Considered in Considered in an Application an Application Application Recommendation Letters Essays/Personal Statement Activity Resume/Work Resume Level of Interest Portfolio/video/audition/examples of work
Curriculum School student attends AP, IB, Honors, Advanced, Gifted, College Prep programs Class rigor Where student falls with peers (rank) Course load Have you challenged yourself with core courses Major appropriate courses Have you taken courses that will prepare you for your major?
GPA Weighted vs. Unweighted - recalculated GPA does it tell/support your story? GPA trends
SAT/ACT - Is one preferred? Super Scoring Scores consistent with high school performance? Test Scores AP Subject Tests IB Exams Won t influence admissions decision
Application Gender Ethnicity Citizenship Family information - Education history Demographic information Disciplinary issues (if applicable) First generation Languages Short Answer
Recommendation Letters How many are required? Inside information about applicant s academic ability Inside information as member of school and community Evidence of integrity, special skills, and positive character traits
Essay/ Personal Statement Answer the prompt Set yourself apart Demonstrate careful and well-constructed writing Draw reader in with a compelling intro and strong conclusion A strong college essay provides insight into the student s unique personality, values, and goals The application essay should be thoughtful and highly personal. Discuss an idea or special interest Why do you want to come here or what do you hope to accomplish? Use the essay to talk about anomalies on your transcript Supplemental Essays make them count
Activity Resume, Work Resume Dedication Demonstration of Leadership Part-time job Internship(s) Community Service Family responsibilities Going above and beyond in any area Consistency Passion
Do not overlook anything special that makes you stand out from the rest of the applicants. Other Other Attributes or Attributes or Awards Awards Include honors, awards, evidence of unusual talent or experience, or anything else that makes you unique. Define local and not widely known awards Do not use acronyms!
Interview & Demonstrated Interest If offered take it! Visit Campus Meet your admission counselor Introduce yourself Attend events in your area
Application Prep Keep track of your activities Hours and years of participation Definition of clubs/organizations Honors and awards Prepare your brag points Do your research This is your chance to sell yourself-don t be shy!
QUESTIONS?? Camille Crites, Syracuse University ccrites@syr.edu
