Getting in to college is competitive and it is getting more and more difficult for high school students to compete with their peers. Admissions departments want to see well-rounded students that not only can make good grades, but contribute to their schools and communities as well. When it comes to the application process, there isn’t always a definite way to guarantee that you will get into the college of your choice, but there are a few things you can do to better your odds.
Before you apply to college, make sure that you have good grades. When it comes to seeking higher education, grades are important and some schools may accept students based on their high GPA or SAT scores alone. Admissions departments take a comprehensive look at the grades made throughout all four years of high school. They want to be able to see that students have either consistently been able to earn high grades, or have been able to steadily improve them. Doing well in difficult courses is also important and earning a B in a calculus class can hold more weight than receiving an A in PE. Admission committees also like to see students who have gone the extra mile and taken AP or honors courses.
Before you apply to college, make sure you are involved in extracurricular activities. Being a good student doesn’t just mean making high grades, it means knowing how to apply your knowledge and skills as well as develop your talents. Admissions departments like to see students who can demonstrate commitment and accomplishments through extracurricular activities. Students who are on athletic teams, involved in student counsel, or participate in school plays show that they are able to demonstrate their smarts both in and out of the classroom.
Also make sure that you are a leader. Colleges don’t just want to see that you were involved in extracurricular activities, but that you were able to significantly contribute to them through leadership roles. Leaders are initiators who take on more responsibility than other students and sacrifice their time and energy for them. Admissions committees not only want to see that students have held leadership positions, but evidence of achievements and accomplishments as well. Students who take on the challenge of running for student body president, establishing a new club, or serving as a class officer will probably stand out from students who may have just attended meetings.