Getting into Schreyer Honors College

blprof
Mon, 18 Aug 2014 00:39:39 +0000

My daughter and I went to a Schreyer admissions presentation at Penn State this past summer. The dean of admissions stated that they do not take into account a student’s GPA or standardized test scores ( including SAT/ACT) because it is not an accurate representation of a student’s success in the college. Schreyer is looking for students with motivation, discipline, and a global outlook, as demonstrated in their ECs and class rigor. They want students who demonstrate that they can go beyond the classroom and implement change in the world around them. Intellectual curiosity as well as diversity are also a big part of the admissions decision. 2/3 of the admissions process is based on a student’s schedule (number of APs and advanced classes), recommendations, and essays and the other 1/3 is based on ECs.

That being said, I think you should focus less on your stats and make sure you have crafted well-written, unique essays that demonstrate the above qualities as well as form a better picture of who you are as not only a student but a global citizen, and make sure your recommendations from teachers highlight your qualities as a student and as a person. Your ECs should support the whole “package” of who you are.