1 11, 2023

Princeton’s Supplemental Essays: Tips & Advice

By |2023-11-01T20:24:54-04:00November 1st, 2023|The Harvard Admissions Interview|0 Comments

Princeton’s Supplemental Essays: Tips & Advice

Princeton’s application includes several supplemental essay prompts that give applicants an opportunity to express themselves, their experiences, and their aspirations. These essays are a crucial part of your application, and crafting well-thought-out responses is essential. In this guide, we’ll dive into each of the supplemental essay prompts to help you navigate this challenging aspect of the Princeton application.

Understanding Princeton’s Supplemental Essay Prompts

Princeton typically offers a set of prompts each year, which may change. It’s vital to grasp the nuances of these prompts and what the admissions committee is looking for in your responses. Let’s explore each of the current prompts:

Prompt 1: Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences.

This prompt invites you to share a snapshot of your life beyond academics. Choose an extracurricular activity or work experience that has had a significant impact on you. In about 150 words, describe it, focusing on the “why” and “how” it shaped you. Share what you’ve learned, the challenges you’ve faced, and how it aligns with your personal values and goals.

Prompt 2: In addition to the essay you have written for the Common Application, please write an essay of about 500 words (no more than 650 words and no fewer than 250 words). Using one of the themes below as a starting point, write about a person, event, or experience that helped you define one of your values or changed the way you approach the world.

For this prompt, you’re given a choice of several themes to explore. Select the theme that resonates with you the most, and share a personal story that relates to it. Your goal is to illustrate how a specific person, event, or experience influenced your values or your perspective on the world. Make sure to connect the theme, the story, and your personal growth in about 500 words.

Prompt 3: Princeton has a longstanding commitment to service and civic engagement. Tell us how your story intersects with these ideals.

In this prompt, Princeton seeks to understand your commitment to service and civic engagement. Share your experiences in these areas and how they align with Princeton’s values. Whether you’ve been involved in community service, activism, or volunteer work, use about 350 words to describe your involvement, the impact you’ve made, and the personal growth it has brought about.

Crafting Outstanding Responses

To excel in these essays, remember the following tips:

  • Be Concise: Princeton has specified word limits for each prompt, so make every word count.
  • Show, Don’t Tell: Use vivid anecdotes and concrete examples to illustrate your points.
  • Authenticity: Be genuine in your responses. Avoid writing what you think the admissions committee wants to hear.
  • Revision and Proofreading: After writing your essays, revise and proofread carefully to ensure clarity and correctness.

Conclusion

Princeton’s supplemental essays provide a valuable opportunity for you to stand out and demonstrate your unique qualities. Take the time to reflect on your experiences, share your stories, and convey your alignment with Princeton’s values. With thoughtful responses to these prompts, you can increase your chances of impressing the admissions committee and securing your place at this prestigious institution. Good luck with your Princeton application!

For expert guidance on your Ivy League college applications and personalized assistance, contact me at IvyCollegeEssay.com. I am committed to helping you stand out among applicants and achieve your dream of attending an Ivy League college.

Contact me for a free consultation TODAY and take the first step towards achieving the school of your dreams!

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4 09, 2023

How to Write Columbia’s Supplemental Essays

By |2023-09-04T17:28:34-04:00September 4th, 2023|College Admissions, Columbia, Ivy Leage Admissions, The Harvard Admissions Interview|0 Comments

How To Write Columbia’s Supplemental Essays

Columbia University, an Ivy League college known  for its intellectual community, academic excellence and vibrant campus life in the center of NYC, is a dream school for many aspiring students. To gain admission to this university, you must navigate the application process successfully, which includes crafting compelling supplemental essays as well as addressing Columbia’s “short answer” questions. This article will focus only on the supplemental questions, not the short answers (saving that for another post) but read on to learn more:

Overall, Columbia’s supplemental essays offer a unique opportunity to showcase your personality, interests, and fit for Columbia’s New York intellectual community. In this post, I’ll guide you through the process of writing Columbia’s supplemental essays to increase your chances of gaining admission.

  1. Understand Columbia’s Intellectual Focus and Culture:

Before delving into the essay prompts, take the time to research Columbia’s intellectual focus and culture. Familiarize yourself with the university’s mission statement, history, and any recent developments or initiatives. This background knowledge will help you tailor your essays to align with Columbia’s ethos and demonstrate your genuine interest in the institution. Hint: pay attention to the “Core Curriculum” and mention it, as well as mentioning the benefit of attending college at an Ivy League school in New York.

  1. Start Early and Plan Strategically:

Columbia’s supplemental essay prompts can be demanding, and crafting thoughtful responses takes time. Begin the process well in advance to avoid rushing through your essays. Create a schedule that allows you to brainstorm ideas, draft, revise, and proofread with ample time to spare before the submission deadline.

  1. Address the Prompts:

Columbia typically provides a set of essay prompts, and it’s crucial to address each one directly and thoroughly. Pay close attention to the specific questions or topics presented and ensure your responses are relevant. Avoid generic or recycled content; instead, tailor your essays to the individual prompts.

  1. Reflect on Your Personal Experiences:

Columbia values authenticity and seeks students who will contribute meaningfully to its highly diverse community. To stand out, reflect on your personal experiences, values, and academic goals. Share stories that highlight your character, resilience, and unique perspective. Use concrete examples to illustrate your points and make your essays more engaging. Columbia is all about their intellectual and artistic community. Make it obvious why you belong there with them.

  1. Showcase Your Connection to Columbia:

Demonstrate your genuine interest in Columbia by showcasing any connection to the university. Discuss specific academic programs, research opportunities, professors, or extracurricular activities that align with your goals and interests. This will help the admissions committee see how you envision yourself contributing to and benefiting from Columbia’s resources.

  1. Highlight Your Fit:

Columbia wants to admit students who will thrive academically and socially within its unique NYC-based community. To illustrate your fit, discuss how your background, experiences, and aspirations align with Columbia’s values and offerings. Emphasize how you plan to engage with the campus community and make the most of your time at the university.

      7. Stay True to Yourself:

While it’s essential to tailor your essays to Columbia’s expectations, it’s equally important to stay true to yourself. Avoid exaggerations or trying to be someone you’re not. The admissions committee is looking for authentic, genuine individuals who will contribute positively to the university community.

            8.Stay Positive and Confident:

Writing college application essays can be a daunting task, but remember to stay positive and confident in your abilities. Believe in your unique qualities and experiences, and trust that your essays will help Columbia see your potential as a valuable member of their school.

In conclusion, writing Columbia’s supplemental essays requires careful planning, self-reflection, and a strong commitment to showcasing your best self. By following these tips and approaching the essays with sincerity and diligence, you can increase your chances of gaining admission to one of the top colleges in the Ivy League and becoming a proud alum of Columbia University. Good luck!

Want more help with your college applications and essays? I’m a former Harvard admissions interviewer + Harvard graduate.  Contact me today for a FREE consultation at:  www.IVY COLLEGE ESSAY.com and get into the school of your dreams!

Other articles you may be interested in:

The Best Extracurriculars for Your College Application

How to Get Accepted to An Ivy League College

How to Transfer to Harvard University

The Power of Your Letters of Recommendation

GPA + Test Score Requirements to Get into Dartmouth

3 09, 2023

Mental Health and College Admissions

By |2023-09-03T11:06:09-04:00September 3rd, 2023|The Harvard Admissions Interview|0 Comments

Mental Health and the Stress of College Admissions

The journey to college admissions, and Ivy League college admissions in particular, can be a daunting one, filled with academic pressures, high expectations, and intense competition. As students strive to secure spots at their dream institutions, their mental health often takes a backseat. In this article, we’ll explore the intersection of mental health and college admissions, highlighting the importance of balance, self-care, and seeking support during this critical phase of life.

The Pressure Cooker: Academic Stress and Expectations

The modern college admissions process has become increasingly demanding. High school students are expected to excel academically, participate in extracurricular activities, and build an impressive resume to stand out in a highly competitive pool of applicants. This relentless pursuit of excellence often results in excessive stress, anxiety, and even depression.

The pressure to maintain perfect GPAs, perform exceptionally on standardized tests, and craft the ideal college essay can be overwhelming. It’s essential to recognize that while academic achievements are important, they should not come at the cost of one’s mental well-being. Students must strike a balance between pursuing their academic goals and nurturing their mental health.

The Comparison Trap: Social and Peer Pressure

In the age of social media, the college admissions process has become more transparent than ever. Students constantly see their peers’ achievements and acceptances, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. The fear of falling behind or not measuring up to others’ successes can be mentally taxing.

It’s crucial for students to remember that everyone’s journey is unique. College admissions are not solely about grades and test scores; they are about finding the right fit for individual passions, interests, and goals. Seeking guidance from mentors, parents, or counselors can help students navigate the emotional challenges associated with comparing themselves to others.

Self-Care and Stress Management: Prioritizing Mental Health

In the midst of the college admissions frenzy, self-care should not be neglected. Prioritizing mental health is a crucial aspect of the journey. Establishing healthy routines that include regular exercise, adequate sleep, and balanced nutrition can help alleviate stress and anxiety.

Meditation and mindfulness techniques can also be powerful tools for managing the emotional toll of college admissions. These practices can improve concentration, reduce anxiety, and promote emotional well-being. Additionally, reaching out to friends and family for emotional support can be incredibly beneficial during this challenging time.

Seeking Professional Help: When to Reach Out

Recognizing when to seek professional help is a vital aspect of mental health management. If the stress and anxiety associated with college admissions become overwhelming or persistent, it’s important to consult with a mental health professional. They can provide valuable strategies for coping with stress, managing anxiety, and building resilience.

Furthermore, it’s essential for educational institutions to prioritize students’ mental health. Schools should offer counseling services and create a supportive environment where students can openly discuss their concerns and seek help without fear of judgment.

The Impact of Mental Health on College Success

Once students successfully navigate the college admissions process, the importance of mental health does not diminish. In fact, it becomes even more critical as they embark on their higher education journey. College life can bring new challenges, including academic pressures, social adjustments, and financial responsibilities. Maintaining good mental health habits developed during the admissions process can set the stage for a successful college experience.

In Conclusion

The college admissions process is a transformative period in a student’s life, but it should not come at the expense of their mental health. Striking a balance between academic pursuits and well-being, resisting the temptation to compare oneself to others, and seeking support when needed are all crucial components of a healthy college admissions journey. By prioritizing mental health, students can not only secure admission to their dream colleges but also set the foundation for a fulfilling and successful higher education experience.

Want help with your college applications and essays?

I’m a former Harvard admissions interviewer + Harvard graduate.  Contact me today for a FREE consultation at:

www.IVY COLLEGE ESSAY.com

And get into the school of your dreams!

Other advice-filled articles you may be interested in:

How to Get Accepted to An Ivy League College

How to Transfer to Harvard University

The Power of Your Letters of Recommendation

GPA + Test Score Requirements to Get into Dartmouth

 

14 05, 2023

How To Transfer to Harvard University

By |2024-01-03T18:56:19-05:00May 14th, 2023|The Harvard Admissions Interview|1 Comment

How To Transfer to Harvard University

Harvard University is obviously one of the most prestigious universities in the world, attracting the top students from all corners of the globe. If you’re currently enrolled in another college or university, and you’re considering transferring to Harvard, you’re not alone. Each year, thousands of students apply to transfer to Harvard, but only a small few are admitted (last year it was 15 students out of all who applied). It is possible though to be one of the chosen, and each year I get students into Harvard’s incoming class.  You never know if you don’t try!

To help you out, in this article, we’ll explore some tips and strategies that can increase your chances of successfully transferring to Harvard. Worth noting: I’m a former Harvard admissions interviewer and a Harvard graduate myself.  I have the credentials to back up what I say:

  1. Understand the Transfer Requirements:

The first step to transfer to Harvard is to understand the transfer requirements. You will need to have completed at least one year of college-level coursework at an accredited institution (the more prestigious the better, though those in the military and those going to community college have absolutely also gotten in), AND you’ll need to have earned a high school diploma or equivalent. You also might benefit from submitting your previous year’s SAT or ACT scores if they were high. Additionally, Harvard requires you to submit your college transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement along with all of their supplemental essays.

  1. Maintain a Strong GPA:

Harvard’s transfer admission process is obviously highly competitive, and maintaining a high GPA your first year in college is essential. Harvard does not have a minimum GPA requirement, but most successful transfer students have a GPA of 3.85 or higher.

  1. Get Involved on Campus:

Harvard values well-rounded students who are active in extracurricular activities. Participating in clubs, sports, or other highly skilled activities or talents (music, art, writing, research, etc) demonstrates your leadership skills, commitment, and passion. It’s also an opportunity to showcase your strengths beyond straight academics.

  1. Seek Letters of Recommendation:

Harvard requires two letters of recommendation from professors who have taught you in college-level courses. The letters should highlight your academic achievements, leadership skills, and potential for success at Harvard. It’s important to ask your professors early on, so they have time to write a strong letter. Letters are incredibly important.

  1. Craft Compelling Essays:

Your essays are an opportunity to showcase who you are and what you can bring to Harvard. Be sure to highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and your personal story. All of your essays should be well-written, concise, and compelling. The number 1 reason students didn’t get in to their chosen schools the previous year most often has to do with the topic choices for their essays, and how the essays were written.  Seek help from a qualified college admissions consultant like myself, if you are unsure why you got rejected last year — don’t make the same mistake again, as this might be your last chance!

  1. Pay attention to the deadline

The deadline to apply for fall transfer is March 1st. Most successful applicants get their transfer applications in way before that date, after the window opens for submission in January.  Getting your application in earlier means more time spent reviewing it via the very busy Harvard admissions committee.  Give yourself the best chance!

In conclusion, transferring to Harvard is a challenging process, but with the right preparation and strategies, it is possible. By maintaining a strong GPA, getting involved on campus, seeking letters of recommendation, crafting compelling transfer essays, you can increase your chances of being admitted to Harvard University as a transfer student.

Remember that the key to a successful transfer application is to present yourself as a unique, well-rounded, ambitious, and talented student who will thrive in Harvard’s intellectual community.

[Want more help with your Harvard transfer applications? I’m a former Harvard admissions interviewer + Harvard grad. Contact me today for a free consultation and get into the school of your dreams! www.IvyCollegeEssay.com]

Check out my other blog articles as well, for great college transfer tips and advice:

  1. How To Get Into An Ivy League College (Tips For Parents)
  2. What Each Ivy League College Is Known For

Or, just contact me HERE!

16 12, 2022

What to Do If You’re Deferred From Your ED College?

By |2022-12-16T12:20:38-05:00December 16th, 2022|The Harvard Admissions Interview|0 Comments

What To Do If You’re Deferred?

Have you been deferred from Early Decision? Up until Dec 15th at 7pm EST, everyone who applied Early Decision and submitted their college applications in time for the Nov 1 deadline has been in a holding pattern. In other words: just waiting.

But, what does being “deferred” actually mean?

And what everyone really wants to know: what are your remaining chances of getting in to your top choice school?

Here’s the good news: being deferred, while not the full-out acceptance you were looking for, is actually GOOD!

Take that in for a second — in lieu of a full-out acceptance from Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Stanford, MIT, or any other highly competitive school, being deferred is actually not a bad thing, and this is why:

Being deferred from college Early Decision, especially when you’re talking about the Ivy League or Ivy League “equivalent” schools means you actually have what it takes to get in!

In other words, it means you have what it takes to be competitive, not only at the highest Ivy League (if you were deferred from Harvard, for example), but from that particular school.

That’s HUGE news if the college you applied to is in the top 20, let alone the top 10 or even top 3!

If Harvard defers you, that means the Harvard admissions committee thought you were good enough to put “on hold” for the moment, as they wait to compare you to the rest of the regular admissions applicants.

That’s what’s going on when you get deferred. You are deemed “competitive” enough, because otherwise you would have been flat out rejected outright. Admissions officers don’t need to make even more work for themselves. They have no problem rejecting unqualified applicants.

The fact that you were NOT rejected though, is GREAT NEWS!!!!  Don’t you see?  It means they thought you “competitive enough”.  Again, GREAT NEWS in terms of your chances and opportunity.

It means regardless if you don’t get in to THIS particular school, and there is still a good chance, you now know in your heart that you are at the level this TYPE of school is looking for, and that you’re still in the game.

So, if you get deferred from Columbia, for example, that means that comparable level schools like Brown, Dartmouth, or UPenn might still find you interesting.

That means if you get deferred from Stanford, MIT just might want to snatch you up!

Don’t let a deferment dampen your spirits as though it’s not the ultimate that you were looking for, you are STILL IN THE RACE!

And, yes, that’s a race that you absolutely can still win.

I get many students into top Ivy League colleges every single year who were initially deferred. Your hope is delayed, NOT shattered by any means.

Many of my students into Harvard and Columbia last night!  This morning, many new students contacted me wondering how to maximize their chances now.

So, what can you do if you got that deferment email? Contact me and let me help you navigate the new situation. You have to know how to respond to a deferment properly.

AND, you need to now maximize your strategy for all of your other regular decision schools.

Want more information? Contact me today for a free consultation. I’m a former Harvard admissions interviewer + Harvard graduate and run the award-winning Ivy League College Admissions Firm: www.IvyCollegeEssay.com

Contact me today, and get into the school of your dreams!

Check out my other article too: What Does It Mean to Get Waitlisted: https://ivycollegeessay.com/2022/09/10/what-does-it-mean-if-you-get-waitlisted-2/

16 08, 2022

How To Get Into Harvard

By |2022-09-14T10:21:50-04:00August 16th, 2022|Harvard, Ivy League, Ivy League Advice, Ivy League College, The Harvard Admissions Interview|7 Comments

How to Get Into Harvard

How to get into Harvard — smart people want to know!  Actually, everybody wants to know, because getting into Harvard is a life-changing event.  It gives you opportunity in life.  It gives you a community of equally smart and interesting peers whom you will be able to fall back on, as part of a very tight community, for the rest of your life.

The high school seniors who attend Harvard today become the very well-known, authors, scientists, politicians, Presidents, humanitarians, doctors, scholars and artists of tomorrow.  They truly are the voice of the next generation.

So, what does it take to really get in to Harvard University? How do these successful college applicants do it?

You can try to substitute Princeton, Yale, Dartmouth, or Brown, etc., here, but it’s somehow not the same.  Even Stanford and MIT while excellent, extremely competitive schools (and, in some cases, even better for what you may specifically want to study) still doesn’t quite equate to that Harvard degree.

What is it then about Harvard University?  How do you become one of the lucky 1600 students admitted each year to not only the Ivy League, but “the” Ivy League?

As a former Harvard admissions interviewer and a Harvard graduate myself, allow me to provide some tips and advice.  In my overall experience, not only interviewing for Harvard’s incoming class for the College of Arts & Sciences, but also running my own Ivy League admissions consulting firm for the last 15 years, these are the top things you need to check off, if you’re even going to be seriously considered for that Harvard acceptance letter.

The points are, as follows”

  1. High School GPA
  2. High SAT / ACT scores
  3. Showing how you are UNIQUE + DIFFERENT in your interests, education, experience, achievements, creative work, or hobbies.
  4. Being able to communicate this well in your Harvard admissions essays.
  5. Having an excellent college interview
  6. Providing additional material with your application, when appropriate, like a portfolio of creative work,  that supports all of the above
  7. Great teacher recommendations

And that’s really the key!  The secret sauce.  The map to TREASURE.

I’m going to now go through, in much more detail, all of the above mentioned steps so you fully understand what Harvard actually looks for in an undergraduate applicant, and then, in terms of better understanding how to get in to Harvard, you’ll be able to adjust what’s in your power to control, and then just try not to think about the rest!

  1. Your GPA –  it obviously needs to be high.  Really high.  That doesn’t mean that if you have a fews “B’s” on your transcript that you still can’t get in.  You can.  Everyone who gets accepted to Harvard doesn’t have a 4.0.  Really. What this does mean though is that the higher your grades the more you’re showing the admissions committee that you belong at their school.  In other words, don’t give them a reason to say no.
  2. Your SAT/ACT scores  – I know, I know, “but everyplace says it’s optional now!”  It is.  That’s not incorrect — BUT, a high SAT or ACT score will still help you, and a REALLY HIGH SAT or ACT score will help you even more.  It adds to the same thing I said above: show them you belong at the school. Take the test if you think you can do well.  For all others, optional (but then you may not get in).
  3.  Showing how you are UNIQUE + DIFFERENT in your interests, education, experience, achievements, creative work, or hobbies.

    This is the most important point in my entire list.  This is everything in terms of the Harvard application (and hold true for really any of the highly competitive schools). What makes you unique?  What makes you different from the girl you sit next to in AP Calculus or Lit?  If you want to get into Harvard you MUST find something in your academic interests, experience, background, talent, skills, or philosophies that make you DIFFERENT.

  4. Your Harvard Admissions Essays:

    This, too, is everything.  Your essays have to be well-written, and your topic choice for your Common App is going to be incredibly important, if not the most important choice you make.  I’m linking to a recent blog post on my Ivy League College Admissions Blog that talks about how to make sure your Common App topic is GOOD, as the choice is that important (and same goes for supplementals and any short answer questions): How to Choose A Topic For Your Common App

  5. Your Harvard Interview

    Also incredibly important.  The two tips I’ll give you here are 1). That you need to prepare by going over some possible interview questions, and 2) You need to keep your interview as “conversational” as possible.  In other words, relax and try to have a normal conversation.  The best interviews just flow naturally.

  6. Additional Material  

    This means if there’s an optional essay, you take the opportunity and answer it.  This also means that if you have any creative or academic material at all (like a scientific paper) you submit it here.  Too many students leave this section blank.  Guess who doesn’t?  The students who get in.  Every question, even the ones not officially “required” are all opportunities to tell the admissions committee more about who you are.  Again, take all opportunities.

  7. Teacher Recs

    This falls in the category of things you can’t fully control, but you obviously need to ask for recs from the teachers whom you at least THINK know you well, and will write you a good one.  Teacher recs are more important than people realize, and the students who tend to get into Harvard usually have at least one teacher who puts their own reputation on the line by saying that a student is truly “one of the best they’ve ever taught, in all the years I’ve been teaching.”

Sentences like that actually do get the admissions committee’s attention, though if everything else in your Harvard application isn’t stellar, then it won’t get you what you need.

So, I hope that sheds some good light on what you need to get into Harvard, and this information holds true really for all of the top Ivy League schools.  The most important thing I’ve said here is that Harvard is looking for those who are the voice of the next generation.  They’re looking for the next leaders, writers, scholars, doctors, scientists, and artists in their field.

Show them that’s you, and Harvard will be lucky to have YOU.

For more free tips and advice, check out my award-winning Ivy League Admissions Consulting Blog

And don’t hesitate to reach out to me over social media or my website: IvyCollegeEssay.com

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[I’m a former Harvard admissions interviewer + Harvard grad, and currently run the Ivy League college admissions consulting firm Ivy League Essay. Contact me today for a free consultation about your Ivy League strategy, and get into the Harvard of your dreams!]

Rather listen to this article?  Click here!

———————————————————–

Website:  www.IvyCollegeEssay.com

Phone:  (212) 671-0891

 

 

19 12, 2021

Common App Essay Deadlines! Last Minute Help + Advice!

By |2022-10-02T14:18:59-04:00December 19th, 2021|The Harvard Admissions Interview|0 Comments

Common App Essays: Last Minute Help + Advice!

Are you struggling to finish your Common App Essay + each individual school’s supplementals?  With only 2 weeks left before the January 2022 college admissions deadline, and with the holidays quickly approaching, a lot of students are panicked!  What if it’s not good enough???  What if my essays sound stupid?  But suppose my topic is off base, and it’s just not what the schools are looking for?

What if I blow all of my chances?

Panic can be a bad thing, but the harsh truth is…there may be some truth to your fear.  The top schools in the US are looking for certain things, and if you don’t check the boxes in terms of your college admission essays, you’re simply not going to accepted.

The following however is a list to make sure your essays, and especially your Ivy League essays if you’re applying to the very top schools like Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Dartmouth, Brown, UPenn, Cornell, or Columbia, hit the mark.  Check out the following list of pointers to see where your own admissions essays might stand, and most importantly, while you still might have time to make some adjustments.

  • 1. The Common App Essay Topic:  Your Common App main essay topic is the most important thing in your entire application.  So many times I have seen essays by students that are well written, but the topic itself doesn’t lend itself to really showcasing the student’s background, and what makes them unique.

ASK YOURSELF: Is this topic truly the most interesting choice from my background?

  • 2. The Supplemental Essays:  After the Common App, your supplemental essays are the next most important thing in your college application, again, especially if applying to the Ivy League or top 20 school, and the worst of the 7 Deadly College Admissions Essay sins you can make is repeating yourself among any one school’s supplementals.

ASK YOURSELF:  Have I used each essay to say something different? Am I aware that repeating myself is one of the 7 Deadly Admission Essay Sins?

  • 3. The Activity List: This is the list of your extracurricular activities on your actual Common App (or Coalition App) application.  Most students list their activities and pay no attention to the ORDER the activities are listed. This is a very bad and very common error.  Order = emphasis, and you need to put your most impressive activities first!

ASK YOURSELF: Have I listed my activities in the order the admissions committee will find impressive? Am I listing the activities chronologically, or just in any random, haphazard order that comes to mind?

  • 4. The “Additional Information” Essay: Have I written an “additional information” essay, or have I decided I am not interesting and therefore have nothing else of value to say on my own behalf.  Obviously, this is very bad.  You need to take the opportunity to find something else from your background, culture, intellectual interests, hobbies, reading, anything to tell the admissions committee even more about yourself.  Don’t take this opportunity! You don’t look that great next to every other student who did find something else to add.  This is especially true for those schools that only have 1-2 supplemental essays.

ASK YOURSELF:  Am I taking every opportunity to show the admissions committee how interesting, ambitious and intellectually curious I am?

  • 5. Supplemental Materials: As with the above, some schools let you upload “additional documents” — this can be anything from MP3 files of music you’ve composed, to videos that show off a classical orchestral performance for example, to JPEGs of artwork, PDFs of published or not-yet-published fiction.  Again, as with the above bullet point, this is an opportunity to show the committee even more about yourself.

ASK YOURSELF: Am I taking this opportunity?

Those are just the top five points that come to mind as you are all finishing up your college applications this holiday season.  If you need extra help, reach out to me at www.IvyCollegeEssay.com

I’m a former Harvard admissions interviewer + Harvard grad. I work with the top students all over the world who are trying to get into the Ivy League.  Let me help you while there is still time to succeed!

Check out the other articles on my award-winning Ivy League College Admissions Blog, such as the post:  Your College Admissions Interview

 

22 10, 2021

Ivy League Early Decision?

By |2022-10-04T10:50:11-04:00October 22nd, 2021|Brown, College Admissions, Columbia, Common App, Cornell, Dartmouth, Harvard, Ivy League, The Harvard Admissions Interview, Yale|0 Comments

Ivy League Early Decision: Nov 1 Deadline!

Ivy League Early Decision applications are due Nov 1.

With only one week left, what can you do to make sure your college admissions essays are in the best state possible to secure your chances of getting into the Ivy League?  Read on for the “Top Ten” tips for Early Decision from a former Harvard Interviewer:

 

  1. Early Decision Tip #1: Only submit your best work. Yes, early decision will help you, but if you’re struggling to finish your college admissions essays on time, just to get in by the deadline, and as a result are submitting sub-par, or what you know is not your best work, it is better to WAIT and submit regular decision, than get rejected now because you ran out of time.

 

  1. Early Decision Tip #2: Make sure you’ve chosen the best school for your early decision (or early action) pick! I usually tell my students who work with me via my Ivy League College Admissions Consulting service, that you want to pick the most difficult school on your list for early decision, because it will give you a slight (slight! as in many 5-10%) boost to your chances, BUT you don’t want to “waste” your decision if you truly, truly, don’t have a fighting chance of being competitive for the school.

 

That means if you know your GPA isn’t stellar, or maybe your SAT score isn’t what would normally be considered “solid” or “high” then your chances of getting into Harvard, or Princeton University are going to be way less, and you need to carefully rethink your decision, and you would be missing out on getting in to Columbia University, for example, or UPenn, or Cornell = all Ivy League schools, and extremely competitive, but sometimes slightly easier to get into than Harvard, Stanford, or Princeton.

 

My caveat?  Choose wisely.

 

  1. Early Decision Tip #3: Ok, and now for the actual essay tips — DO NOT REPEAT YOURSELF IN YOUR ADMISSIONS ESSAYS! Repeating yourself is one of the seven deadly sins of college applications. Then Each essay is an opportunity to reveal a different side of yourself.  Don’t waste that opportunity to reiterate something you already talked about somewhere else and It will count against you.

 

  1. Early Decision Tip #4: If you’re a legacy SAY IT. I know in this day and age we all like to think that everything is above board and equal, but the truth is, the Ivy League schools still value legacy. That means if your mom or dad went to Harvard, as with your Early Decision choice, it will give you a slight boost.  However, for all those who are not legacy, that doesn’t mean you’re out of the running.  It doesn’t even mean you’ll be looked over in favor of someone who is — it just means that if you have a family member who graduated from the school, also take advantage of the “boost” and make sure you say it within one of the essays, and not just on the application.

 

  1. Early Decision Tip #5: As with the above, if you are ranked nationally as an athlete in any sport, SAY IT. I’m surprised how many students have very significant achievements in all kinds of athletics, but, because they are not being actively recruited, think this just doesn’t matter. It matters.  As with everything else above, it will give you a “boost.”  You want the boost.

 

  1. Early Decision Tip #6: Make sure you are choosing the strongest topic for your Common App essay! The Common App essay, as all of you reading this know, is THE most important part of your college application after your grades + SAT / ACT. You better make sure you have chosen the best topic for you.  The most common mistake I see with my students, over and over again, is choosing a weak topic.  If you’re not sure and if your topic is weak or not, seek out someone like me, and I will be happy to tell you.  As you can see in the link below, I offer free consultations.  Did you hear that?  That’s FREE.

 

  1. Early Decision Tip #7: Always take advantage of any “additional information” essay and do it. Each essay, again, is an opportunity to show a different side of yourself. Why would you not take this opportunity and, tell the admissions committee even more?

 

  1. Early Decision Tip #8: The Ivy League schools want to see how sophisticated you are in your tastes. In other words, cultured. That means that supplemental questions, or questions on the Common App application itself that ask you to list books or TV shows, should be filled in with books and shows that are more intellectual in nature.  That’s what they’re looking for! If your whole list fills with pop culture teenage nonsense then you should think twice. The list is really a trick question Or Have doubts if your lists pass the test? Ask me.

 

  1. Early Decision Tip #9: Use your supplemental essays to show the admissions committee and what makes you unique. You want to use the essays as an opportunity to again showcase the most unique and interesting aspects of yourself. “Interesting” is the key word and also think about something you do. Or participate in what makes you different than your peers. Or is it something you have achieved at a very high level?

 

 

  1. Early Decision Tip #10: The order of your “Activities List” on the Common App matters! Again, you want to put the MOST INTERESTING activity at the top. Not necessarily but the thing you spend the most time doing and Remember, everything about your college application. Especially, if you are applying to the Ivy League (or Ivy League competitive schools) that is about showing the admissions committee who you are, as well as, why admitting you to their very select class, and, will only make their class better.

 

Good luck, and reach out to me if you’re looking for more bespoke Ivy League college admissions support or advice.  Thinking of transferring?  Check out my blog post here: Transferring to the Ivy League?

I’m a former Harvard admissions interviewer and Harvard grad, and run my Ivy League College Admissions Essay Consulting firm: www.IvyCollegeEssay.com out of NYC,  and work with students all over the world.  Contact me today for a free consultation, and get into the Ivy League!

*Interested in getting your MBA degree and want to go to a top business school? www.MBAIvy.com

19 01, 2020

Your College Admissions Interview

By |2022-09-17T14:43:32-04:00January 19th, 2020|College Admissions, Harvard, Ivy League, The Harvard Admissions Interview|2 Comments

The College Admissions Interview

How to Prepare for your Ivy League interview as well as any other college or university!

Hello Ivy League college applicants! This is one of my most important Ivy League college admissions blog posts of the admissions cycle, and we’re going to touch on everything!

First things first, your college admissions interview, and specifically, your Ivy League interviews — especially if you are applying Early Decision, are quickly approaching!

The question now is:  how to best prepare?

You spent so much time on your college applications, not to mention all the years and years of your life trying to do well in high school, and amassing the right extracurriculars, plus trying to get your SAT and ACT test scores high, and doing interesting and unique things with your outside school time, and your summers, and your mind, and your personality, just so you can GET INTO A GREAT IVY LEAGUE COLLEGE.

In other words: don’t blow it now.

There is too much at stake.

So, what can you do to not blow your college admissions interview, no matter where you’re applying?  Educate yourself!

Know what to EXPECT from the interview process, and you’ll be so way ahead of the game!

To help out students who worked with me on their Ivy League admissions essays this year, as well as help out those students just finding my Ivy League blog now for the first time, I’ve put together an “Ivy League College Admissions Interview Prep ebook” for only $20 USD, that will expertly guide you through the entire regular college + Ivy League interview process.

You can get the downloadable ebook here today.  It’s small, but has everything you really need to know.

Seriously, don’t go into your college interview without being prepared.  My ebook is filled with EXPERT tips and advice on everything you can expect, from how to dress, to specific questions asked, and how you should best respond. I am a former Harvard admissions interviewer, as well as a Harvard graduate, and this is some of the best insider advice you can get.  

BUY EBOOK HERE

I am also offering this year, as my schedule allows, an 1 hour MOCK INTERVIEW Prep.  This “mock” or practice interview will walk you through what an exact Harvard (or Ivy League university equivalent) college admissions interview will be like before it’s actually real.

So, don’t think the interview doesn’t matter, because it does matter: A LOT.  An awful lot, and this is especially true if you’ve been deferred from Early Admissions/Early Decision.

Meanwhile, check out my ebook above, and GET INTO THE IVY LEAGUE!

[I’m a former Harvard admissions interviewer, and a Harvard grad and currently run the top college admissions consulting firm: Ivy League Essay (www.IvyCollegeEssay) out of NYC.  Working with student all over the world, I help the best of the best achieve their dreams and get into Harvard and like-minded Ivy League universities. 

Contact me today, for a free consultation: www.IvyCollegeEssay.com 

For more Ivy League college admissions advice + tips, check out my article, here: How to Get into Harvard

29 11, 2019

Things You Can Do to Boost Your Ivy League Application!

By |2022-10-04T05:11:11-04:00November 29th, 2019|Brown, College Admissions, Columbia, Common App, Cornell, Dartmouth, Harvard, Ivy League, The Harvard Admissions Interview, Yale|1 Comment

If you’re applying to an Ivy League college you already know that high grades, tons of AP classes, stellar SAT scores, unique extracurriculars, and fantastic teacher recs can all play a role in your application and acceptance to some of the most prestigious colleges in America. Read the following things that can help you to Boost Your Ivy League Application.

The following are top ten tips though that you may not have thought of that when, combined with the standard qualifications above (i.e. stellar GPA, etc), can actually serve to help you get in!

  1. Social Media:  Schools check.  So, that said, you want to make sure that there is nothing crude or lewd on your facebook page and you’re not making extreme non-pc comments all over twitter.  It’s okay to show yourself having fun with your friends, and you certainly don’t have to show yourself as 100% scholarly and serious (it is a social outlet, after all), and you’re even allowed to have an opinion that maybe other people don’t necessarily agree with, but just keep in mind that the college admission officers are trying to get a sneak peak and quick overview of who you might be online. If you think your fb page shows you as an all around great person with dedicated intellectual and creative interests and great humanitarian projects under your belt (and on your page) then let them look.  It could help you.  More often than not though, it won’t.  Personally, I’d set my fb page to private right now to block anyone who isn’t a known friend. After all, why take the risk?
  2. Send your interviewer a thank you email: This is another tip that some might think of, and some won’t.  Sending a very BRIEF thank you, if you do in fact have your interviewer’s email address (some schools do not make this available). This is a sign of having good manners, which translates into a sign of strong upbringing and class.  The Ivy League especially is deciding whether you fit into their school culture. Not only if you have the grades to succeed.  Sending a thank you (just 2-3 sentences at most- don’t go longer) can leave a positive impression in your interviewer’s eyes. And that translates to a positive feeling when they sit down to report on their interview with you. This can help to get you in!
  3. Mention legacy:  Do you have a family member who went to the school?  If not that that particular college, did they go to another college within the Ivy League.  If so, mention it.  Don’t feel like you’re bragging.  The Ivy League universities value “legacies” highly. So even though it’s usually a question on the application, mention it during your college interview, as well. The Ivy League in particular loves tradition and preserving and honoring family lines.  If your mom went to Columbia and your dad is a Harvard grad = mention it.  Believe me, it will help.
  4. Mention 1st Generation: As an alternative to the above, perhaps you’re the first one in your family to ever even go to college!  If this is you, don’t worry, MENTION IT – somewhere in your essays.  Again, this will only help you.
  5. Are you a twin? Yes, I know this one isn’t going to apply to most people, but it’s worth mentioning. The Ivy League in particular loves admitting twins who are equally ambitious and have the required credentials.  So, if you’re a twin – identically or fraternal – this should be everywhere in your college essays, and specifically at least mentioned in you Common App.   The colleges like anything and everything that makes you unique. And having a twin or sibling that is going to be in the same incoming calls puts you in that “special and unique” category. Especially if you’re special and unique and can stand out in others areas, as well!

Those are just a few helpful tips that you might not find elsewhere regarding how to make your college applications. And especially your Ivy League college applications stand out even more.

Stay tuned in the coming days for even more, and check out my other Ivy League Essay articles, here: https://ivycollegeess.wpengine.com/2017/05/01/top-5-books-to-read-before-applying-to-an-ivy-league-college/

[I’m a former Harvard admissions interviewer and a Harvard graduate, and currently run the Ivy League Essay college admissions firm: www.IVY COLLEGE ESSAY.com  Contact me for a free consultation today!]

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