To all the anxious future applicants: Advice

bigredd
Mon, 06 Jun 2011 21:36:50 +0000

Hello everyone,
As a student who just finished with the application process this year, I know how hard it is. You spend so much time preparing the college apps, not to mention all the time put into the course work, extracurriculars and everything else. I know all I wanted to hear was that I had a chance at getting into these elite schools, but before posting those chance threads, hear what I have to say.

College admissions is a tricky business. Here’s my advice.

1. You are more than your test scores.
I am a poor test taker. My SAT didn’t break 2000 and I was accepted. I know people with 2300 that were rejected, so I don’t think test scores are the deciding factor. As long as you’re competitive, you will be fine.
2.**Course load Matters **
Take the most challenging classes offered, not only will it look good, it will make sure you are prepared for when you get to college.

2. ** Leadership **
Highlight any leadership position you have on your application. Show that you are a good leader and would be an asset to Cornell. Compared to the other people that applied from my school, and were rejected, I had significantly more leadership positions. Also, do anything that might set you apart from others. If you have an opportunity for an internship in high school, take it! Then write a good essay about

3. The biggest piece of advice: ** Show you want to go to Cornell **
Let admissions know that Cornell isn’t just some school you applied to for the heck of it. In my essay, I showed that I did my research on Cornell. I talked about the specific colleges and specific values that are important to them. Reading my essay showed I had looked into the school and conveyed some passion. I think this helped me get in.

So take a deep breath, make your application the best you can and enjoy your senior year.
Maybe I’ll see you on Cornell’s Campus :)