WHAT SCHOOLS LOOK FOR IN PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS
As if you were sizing up the other team to plan your game strategy, you’ll
need to understand what admissions committees want from you as you assemble
all the pieces of your application.
Academic record: Admission representatives look at the breadth
(how many), diversity (which ones), and difficulty (how challenging) of the
courses on your transcript.
Grades: You should show consistency in your ability to work
to your potential. If you grades are not initially good, colleges look to
see that significant improvement has been made. Some colleges have minimum
grade point averages that they are willing to accept.
Class rank: Colleges may consider the academic standing of
a student in relation to the other members of his or her class. Are you in
the top 25 percent of your class? Top half? Ask your counselor for your class
rank. The size of your class and school are also taken into consideration.
Standardized test scores: Colleges look at test scores in
terms of ranges. If your scores aren’t high but you did well academically
in high school, you shouldn’t be discouraged. There is no set formula
for admission. Even at the most competitive schools, some students’
test scores are lower than you would think.
Extracurricular activities: Colleges look for depth of involvement
(variety and how long you participated), initiative (leadership), and creativity
demonstrated in activities, service, or work. Extracurricular activities can
be both school and non-school related.
Recommendations: Most colleges require a recommendation from
you high school guidance counselor. Some ask for references from teachers
or other adults. If your counselor or teachers don’t know you well,
you should put together a student resume, or brag sheet, that outlines what
you have done during your four years of high school.
