Building a Strong College Profile

Getting involved outside of class is just as important as excelling inside it. If a school offers activities outside class—clubs, sports teams, or community groups—students should join them if they align with their interests and goals.

Once involved in an activity, don’t just participate—be a leader. Now is the perfect opportunity to aim for a leadership role like team captain or club president. The experience will show colleges that an applicant possesses initiative and responsibility, two highly valued traits. Being a leader will also prepare students for their future in the workforce, where they will often lead and collaborate with others.

Volunteering is another way to stand out. Find causes that personally matter, and dedicate time to making a difference in a community or area of interest. The aim is not to show that students are keeping themselves busy—admission officers want to see the depth and purpose of how they spend their time. Volunteering is about making small-scale change!

3. Gain Relevant Experience

Colleges love applicants who have explored potential career paths. If possible, hands-on experience in an applicant’s area of interest is particularly valuable. Students should leverage internships, part-time jobs, or job shadowing opportunities whenever possible.

For example, a student who is interested in animal welfare should reach out to volunteer at a veterinary clinic. Students with an entrepreneurial spark should try their hand at starting their own business–even if it is something as simple as setting up a lemonade stand. 

Alternatively, an excellent way for students to show initiative is by starting or completing a project related to their passions. For instance, coding an app that gives people dog training tips can highlight a passion for animals and an interest in technology. Many colleges will allow students to submit a portfolio or a short video where they can showcase something that they have built or created, whether that is a computer program, an art piece, or even something practical like a hand-built picnic bench. Colleges love to see students who can plan, start, and then finish a project. 

4. Build Strong Relationships

Excellent recommendations can make a significant difference and should come from those who know the student best. Students should build strong relationships with their teachers, counselors, coaches, and mentors. Always be kind and respectful, engage in classes, and ask thoughtful questions. Students who show a genuine appreciation for guidance usually get the most detailed and thoughtful recommendation letters. To build that connection, don’t just do the work assigned in class and then run away: take time to talk to teachers about goals and ambitions so that those teachers are invested in your success. 

5. Create a Stellar Application

The application is where all the hard work comes together. A student’s personal statement tells their story — who they are, where they come from, what they care about, and how they’ve grown. In the essay, write authentically and focus on pivotal moments or experiences. Students should show the admissions officers reading the personal statement what it feels like to be in their shoes. Teach them something new; make them laugh. Give them a reason to advocate for you.

If a college requires supplemental essays, students should tailor each to reflect why they’re a great fit for that specific institution. Be sure to do research–each college is different!

Before applying, make sure every part is polished and error-free. Have a trusted parent, mentor, teacher, counselor, or friend look it over to ensure a unique voice is captured in each aspect.

How to Improve a College Admissions Profile

An applicant’s profile should make them glimmer and stand apart from their peers — especially if they aim for the top college. Here are some practical tips to help craft a standout application:

• Start early: Begin building the profile as early as possible. Start in middle school if possible. By junior year, focus on a few areas where you can excel and show leadership.
• Develop a “spike”: Quality over quantity. Instead of trying to be good at everything, aim to become extraordinary in one or two areas — a “spike.” It is this standout quality that can catch admissions officers’ attention. But be careful: no matter what area a student is “spiking” in, they need to show an ability to collaborate and communicate with others. 
• Craft a personal brand: What’s one thing a student wants admissions officers to remember? Essays and extracurriculars should reinforce a cohesive narrative. An admissions officer should read a student’s profile and be able to come up with a catchy bumper-sticker like “The self-taught slight-of-hand magician who loves mathematical puzzles” or “The computer science student with a poly-sci angle who can talk about international cyber security.”
• Document your journey: Keep a journal or digital log of academic and extracurricular achievements starting freshman year. Students can even include personal reflections and lessons learned. Journal writings provide great material for future essays and interviews, especially those “Tell me about a time when…” questions. They can also help assess personal growth over time.
• Stay true to yourself: Authenticity is powerful. Students shouldn’t mold themselves into what they think an Ivy League wants or see their friends or classmates doing. Be honest; admissions officers can tell when an application feels forced, so students should let their genuine selves shine through.
• Consider college consulting: Need personalized guidance? A college consulting company may help increase a student’s chances of acceptance. These companies provide various services that can extend beyond college profiling assistance.

Zenith Prep Academy Can Help You Stand Out