I’m currently working on my Gateway to Prep Schools candidate profile and had a few questions I was hoping someone could help with:
- What kind of things should I include in the “Additional Information/Explanation” section? Is it okay to leave this blank if I don’t have anything extra to add?
- I do have some awards and certificates. Should I scan and upload them as a PDF? And if so, do I need to upload proof for everything I mention in the Academic, Athletic, and Personal Achievements section?
- I’m not a professional athlete or performer, so I don’t have highlight reels or anything like that. But I noticed there’s a “Multimedia” section—what is that usually used for? Is it mainly for things like dance or theater videos?
Thank you all so much in advance—I really appreciate the help!
i’ll try to give some insight—i go to a T10 niche, was recruited, so i don’t super remember the fine print but here goes:
that section’s mainly for explaining any dips in GPA or weird circumstances that impacted your academics. example: “my dad passed away so i got a C in math that term because i couldn’t focus.” don’t use it unless there’s something real to say—no filler.
depends on the quality. external validation’s important, but there’s a range—it could be a first place finish at USAMO or a “punctuality award” for JV soccer. i didn’t upload proof of anything, but if you googled me you’d see i was actually part of the clubs i mentioned. they’re not cross-checking everything unless it seems sketchy.
mostly for performances—like music, dance, film, theater. if you made a short film, wrote something worth sharing, or have a lacrosse highlight reel, you can drop it there. that said, if you’re an athlete, getting film to the coach is more important than uploading it here. overall, just throw in stuff you’re genuinely proud of. better to be sharp and intentional than throw in random fluff.
lmk if you’ve got other questions—that’s just my experience.
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