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What are Ivy Leagues looking for in terms of grades/essays?
I am a 11th grader, currently 16 years old. I am interested in architecture and hope to go to Cornell. I recently opened an architecture club and I have around a 3.8 GPA. I have only taken 1 Honors and 1 AP class. For my senior year, I am planning on taking 2 college classes and 2 APs. What can I do to improve my profile? Should I focus on my leadership / community roles or more on my grades??
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4 answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Zen !
You stated specifically that you plan to go to Cornell University so I would be happy to advise you about what is needed to apply.
To begin with, Cornell University has three campuses, so your first step is to decide which location you want and keep in mind that the tuition is different at each campus. Cornell University has campuses in Ithaca, New York, New York City, New York specifically Cornell Tech on Roosevelt Island and a campus in Manhattan. There is also a campus in Doha, Qatar. So when asking advice about this, it's important to know which campus you are targeting for the most accurate information.
For your high school classes, Cornell requires 4 years of English, 3 years of a Foreign Language, 3 years of Math, 3 years of Science. Note: Architecture requires 4 years of Math. They do not require these classes to be of AP or Honors.
To apply for their Architecture Program, students need to submit a portfolio which they submit through Cornell's Portal online. Students will also have a Video Interview.
If you are in Dual Enrollment now and plan to take two college classes next year, you must check with that college as well as Cornell University to find out if Cornell University will accept the units (of credit) that you take at a community college in California. Get this information as soon as possible so that you won't have to take the community college courses over once you get to Cornell. Your Guidance Counselor really needed to advise you about this if you've discussed it and if you haven't, definitely do discuss it as soon as possible. Be as detailed as possible with the Guidance Counselor.
It's such a super cool plan you have. Visit Cornell University's website to get details and make some phone calls to the campus of your choice to get the information directly from an authorized staff at Cornell. You will also be making a large relocation from California to New York (I presume not to Doha, Qatar, but you didn't say). This is the time to plan for it. I can relate - I made the exact move for college only from N.Y. to CA. I can advise you about that, too.
It is going to be imperative that this year you set the plan for exactly where you are going to live once you relocate to New York State. Cornell has on campus and off campus housing for its students, so you can live in the dorms or student housing off campus. Do not just move to New York State not knowing where you're going to live while being a student. My first arrangement from New York to California was to be in Anaheim and I got a better offer in Sacramento, so I went to Sacramento on a turn of good fortune. The housing was very important but it is even more important today so I urge you to find out exactly where you will land before attempting a cross-country move.
I hope this helps and I encourage you to ask addition specific questions. This will be an exciting, renewing and awesome adventure that will provide you with fond memories later in life ! Best wishes with all of your plans ! You can do it !
You stated specifically that you plan to go to Cornell University so I would be happy to advise you about what is needed to apply.
To begin with, Cornell University has three campuses, so your first step is to decide which location you want and keep in mind that the tuition is different at each campus. Cornell University has campuses in Ithaca, New York, New York City, New York specifically Cornell Tech on Roosevelt Island and a campus in Manhattan. There is also a campus in Doha, Qatar. So when asking advice about this, it's important to know which campus you are targeting for the most accurate information.
For your high school classes, Cornell requires 4 years of English, 3 years of a Foreign Language, 3 years of Math, 3 years of Science. Note: Architecture requires 4 years of Math. They do not require these classes to be of AP or Honors.
To apply for their Architecture Program, students need to submit a portfolio which they submit through Cornell's Portal online. Students will also have a Video Interview.
If you are in Dual Enrollment now and plan to take two college classes next year, you must check with that college as well as Cornell University to find out if Cornell University will accept the units (of credit) that you take at a community college in California. Get this information as soon as possible so that you won't have to take the community college courses over once you get to Cornell. Your Guidance Counselor really needed to advise you about this if you've discussed it and if you haven't, definitely do discuss it as soon as possible. Be as detailed as possible with the Guidance Counselor.
It's such a super cool plan you have. Visit Cornell University's website to get details and make some phone calls to the campus of your choice to get the information directly from an authorized staff at Cornell. You will also be making a large relocation from California to New York (I presume not to Doha, Qatar, but you didn't say). This is the time to plan for it. I can relate - I made the exact move for college only from N.Y. to CA. I can advise you about that, too.
It is going to be imperative that this year you set the plan for exactly where you are going to live once you relocate to New York State. Cornell has on campus and off campus housing for its students, so you can live in the dorms or student housing off campus. Do not just move to New York State not knowing where you're going to live while being a student. My first arrangement from New York to California was to be in Anaheim and I got a better offer in Sacramento, so I went to Sacramento on a turn of good fortune. The housing was very important but it is even more important today so I urge you to find out exactly where you will land before attempting a cross-country move.
I hope this helps and I encourage you to ask addition specific questions. This will be an exciting, renewing and awesome adventure that will provide you with fond memories later in life ! Best wishes with all of your plans ! You can do it !

James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
7223
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Zen!
What Ivy Leagues Look for in Terms of Grades and Essays
1. Academic Performance: GPA and Course Rigor Ivy League schools, including Cornell University, place a significant emphasis on academic performance. A GPA of 3.8 is commendable, but the context of your coursework matters greatly. Admissions committees look for students who challenge themselves academically. Since you have only taken one Honors and one AP class so far, increasing the rigor of your course load in your senior year by taking two AP classes and two college courses is a positive step. Ivy League schools typically prefer applicants who have taken advanced courses whenever available, as this demonstrates readiness for college-level work.
2. Standardized Test Scores While many Ivy League schools have adopted test-optional policies recently, strong standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) can still enhance your application if submitted. If you choose to take these tests, aim for scores that are competitive within the applicant pool at Cornell.
3. Extracurricular Activities and Leadership Roles Ivy League institutions value well-rounded students who contribute to their communities outside of academics. Your involvement in founding an architecture club is an excellent demonstration of leadership and initiative. Continue to develop this club by organizing events or workshops that engage other students in architecture-related activities. Additionally, consider seeking leadership roles in other extracurricular activities or community service projects that align with your interests.
4. Personal Essays Essays are a critical component of the Ivy League application process as they provide insight into your personality, values, and motivations beyond grades and test scores. When writing your essays:
Be authentic: Share personal stories that reflect who you are.
Highlight your passion for architecture: Discuss what inspired you to pursue this field and how your experiences (like starting the architecture club) have shaped your aspirations.
Demonstrate growth: Reflect on challenges you’ve faced and how they’ve contributed to your development.
5. Recommendations Strong letters of recommendation from teachers who know you well can significantly bolster your application. Choose teachers who can speak to both your academic abilities and character.
6. Focus Areas: Leadership vs Grades In terms of prioritizing efforts between leadership/community roles and grades:
Balance is Key: While maintaining strong grades is essential, do not neglect extracurricular involvement.
Quality Over Quantity: Focus on depth rather than breadth in both areas; meaningful contributions in fewer activities can be more impactful than superficial involvement in many.
In summary, aim for a balanced profile that showcases strong academic performance alongside meaningful extracurricular engagement and compelling personal narratives in your essays.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
1. The College Board The College Board provides comprehensive information on college admissions processes, including insights into what Ivy League schools look for regarding GPA, course rigor, standardized tests, and more.
2. National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) NACAC offers guidelines on best practices for college admissions which include factors considered by Ivy League institutions when evaluating applicants’ profiles.
3. Cornell University Admissions Office Cornell’s official admissions website outlines specific criteria they consider important during the admissions process, including academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, essays, and recommendations tailored specifically to their institution’s values.
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|========================God Bless You, Richly!============================|
|======================James Constantine Frangos==========================|
|============THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN================|
|===========Programming For Your Nutrition Education ~ Since 1972!===============|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
What Ivy Leagues Look for in Terms of Grades and Essays
1. Academic Performance: GPA and Course Rigor Ivy League schools, including Cornell University, place a significant emphasis on academic performance. A GPA of 3.8 is commendable, but the context of your coursework matters greatly. Admissions committees look for students who challenge themselves academically. Since you have only taken one Honors and one AP class so far, increasing the rigor of your course load in your senior year by taking two AP classes and two college courses is a positive step. Ivy League schools typically prefer applicants who have taken advanced courses whenever available, as this demonstrates readiness for college-level work.
2. Standardized Test Scores While many Ivy League schools have adopted test-optional policies recently, strong standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) can still enhance your application if submitted. If you choose to take these tests, aim for scores that are competitive within the applicant pool at Cornell.
3. Extracurricular Activities and Leadership Roles Ivy League institutions value well-rounded students who contribute to their communities outside of academics. Your involvement in founding an architecture club is an excellent demonstration of leadership and initiative. Continue to develop this club by organizing events or workshops that engage other students in architecture-related activities. Additionally, consider seeking leadership roles in other extracurricular activities or community service projects that align with your interests.
4. Personal Essays Essays are a critical component of the Ivy League application process as they provide insight into your personality, values, and motivations beyond grades and test scores. When writing your essays:
Be authentic: Share personal stories that reflect who you are.
Highlight your passion for architecture: Discuss what inspired you to pursue this field and how your experiences (like starting the architecture club) have shaped your aspirations.
Demonstrate growth: Reflect on challenges you’ve faced and how they’ve contributed to your development.
5. Recommendations Strong letters of recommendation from teachers who know you well can significantly bolster your application. Choose teachers who can speak to both your academic abilities and character.
6. Focus Areas: Leadership vs Grades In terms of prioritizing efforts between leadership/community roles and grades:
Balance is Key: While maintaining strong grades is essential, do not neglect extracurricular involvement.
Quality Over Quantity: Focus on depth rather than breadth in both areas; meaningful contributions in fewer activities can be more impactful than superficial involvement in many.
In summary, aim for a balanced profile that showcases strong academic performance alongside meaningful extracurricular engagement and compelling personal narratives in your essays.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
1. The College Board The College Board provides comprehensive information on college admissions processes, including insights into what Ivy League schools look for regarding GPA, course rigor, standardized tests, and more.
2. National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) NACAC offers guidelines on best practices for college admissions which include factors considered by Ivy League institutions when evaluating applicants’ profiles.
3. Cornell University Admissions Office Cornell’s official admissions website outlines specific criteria they consider important during the admissions process, including academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, essays, and recommendations tailored specifically to their institution’s values.
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|========================God Bless You, Richly!============================|
|======================James Constantine Frangos==========================|
|============THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN================|
|===========Programming For Your Nutrition Education ~ Since 1972!===============|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Updated
Firoz’s Answer
4.0
IB
AP
Many difficult classes
4 years of Math
4 Years Science
4 Years of English
High ACT
Volunteer
Athletics
Clubs like DECA
Differentiate yourself. Why you and not someone else.
Experience and jobs in high school.
Good application
Good recommendations
IB
AP
Many difficult classes
4 years of Math
4 Years Science
4 Years of English
High ACT
Volunteer
Athletics
Clubs like DECA
Differentiate yourself. Why you and not someone else.
Experience and jobs in high school.
Good application
Good recommendations
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Ah, the Ivy League, huh? 🏫✨ You’re looking to dive into the world of Ivy League dreams and Cornell Architecture specifically? Well, buckle up, because you’re heading into a highly competitive world! But don't worry, with the right moves and strategies, you can definitely make your application stand out like a bold new building design. 🏙️💡
Let’s break it down:
1. What Ivy Leagues are REALLY Looking For:
The Ivy League schools, including Cornell, don’t just want a robotic genius with straight-A grades. Oh no. They’re after students who show a balance of brains and passion, someone who can shape the world with their intellect and their vision.
Here’s what they care about:
Grades: You’ve got a solid 3.8 GPA—nice! 💯 Ivy League schools typically look for top-tier grades. They love APs, honors courses, and college-level classes. If you’re aiming for Cornell, they’re going to want to see you taking the most rigorous courses available to you.
Essays: The personal statement and supplemental essays are where you can really shine! This is your chance to show who you are beyond just the numbers on your transcript. Be authentic, passionate, and thoughtful. Since you're into architecture, write about your love for design, how you got involved in the architecture club, and how you see yourself changing the world with this field. Make them feel like they can see your future in their program. 🏛️
Leadership & Extracurriculars: This is where you really get to stand out. Ivy League schools are big on leadership and initiative. You’ve already taken a great step by opening an architecture club—that's leadership in action! Show them that you're someone who doesn’t wait for opportunities to come to you but creates them. If you can link this club to a community impact (organizing architecture workshops, helping others learn about the field, etc.), that’s like a double win. 🏆
Test Scores: Keep in mind, standardized test scores like SAT/ACT still matter. Aim for those top percentiles, but remember that Cornell and the Ivy League have increasingly become test-optional, so if you don't test well, there are still plenty of ways to shine. 📚
2. What to Focus On: Grades vs. Leadership?
Ah, the classic debate: Should I focus more on grades or community involvement? Both matter, but here’s the trick: Ivy League schools want to see a holistic profile—which means balance between academic performance and outside-the-classroom activities.
1. Grades:
Your GPA is strong, but taking more AP and college courses will definitely help! Especially with architecture, showing that you can handle rigorous coursework will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a challenging academic environment.
Also, if you’re planning to take 2 APs and 2 college courses senior year, that’s a great step! Make sure you continue challenging yourself while keeping that GPA high (no pressure, right? 😅).
2. Leadership & Extracurriculars:
Leadership is HUGE. If you’re running the architecture club, make it a standout activity. Organize events, make connections with local architects, maybe even design a building or structure for a community project. The more impactful you can make your role, the better. Your leadership doesn’t have to be in some fancy “president of the world” role; it just has to be meaningful. A consistent effort can often outshine titles.
Ivy Leagues love applicants who show they can take initiative, collaborate, and create opportunities where none existed before. You’re doing great by leading the club—just make sure it’s an experience that highlights your growth. 📈
3. Application Tips:
Essays: You have an amazing opportunity here. Tell them about why architecture excites you, and don’t be afraid to show your personal story. Maybe how your love for the field started, what you’ve learned through your club, and how you envision your future at Cornell and beyond. Cornell is all about diverse perspectives, so give them yours!
Letters of Recommendation: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to both your academic abilities and your passion for architecture. A teacher who can talk about your leadership and impact on the architecture club would be great!
Show Your Commitment: You don’t need to be involved in every club at school (unless you’re secretly a superhero with unlimited energy 🦸), but showing dedication to a few select activities can highlight your passion and depth of commitment.
3. How to Keep Improving Your Profile:
Get involved in summer programs related to architecture or design. Summer internships or programs show real-world commitment.
Try to build your portfolio. Even as a high schooler, you can start creating a portfolio with any design projects or artwork that reflects your architectural interests.
Network with professionals in the field—attend events, ask for advice, and stay active in your community.
Don’t forget your personal health. Ivy League admissions are intense, so remember to balance your stress with a good dose of fun! Maybe attend a workshop that combines architecture and yoga for a refreshing take on design? 😜
Summary:
Your 3.8 GPA is solid, but focus on more rigorous coursework in senior year, like APs and college classes.
Ivy Leagues want both good grades and leadership—your architecture club is a great start! Take it to the next level by organizing events, collaborating, and showing community impact.
Your essays are your chance to shine—tell your story with passion, especially about why architecture excites you.
Keep pushing yourself with extracurriculars and networking, but also have fun! You’re on the right path! 🙌
So, get ready to rock that Cornell application like the architect you are! 🏛️🚀
Let’s break it down:
1. What Ivy Leagues are REALLY Looking For:
The Ivy League schools, including Cornell, don’t just want a robotic genius with straight-A grades. Oh no. They’re after students who show a balance of brains and passion, someone who can shape the world with their intellect and their vision.
Here’s what they care about:
Grades: You’ve got a solid 3.8 GPA—nice! 💯 Ivy League schools typically look for top-tier grades. They love APs, honors courses, and college-level classes. If you’re aiming for Cornell, they’re going to want to see you taking the most rigorous courses available to you.
Essays: The personal statement and supplemental essays are where you can really shine! This is your chance to show who you are beyond just the numbers on your transcript. Be authentic, passionate, and thoughtful. Since you're into architecture, write about your love for design, how you got involved in the architecture club, and how you see yourself changing the world with this field. Make them feel like they can see your future in their program. 🏛️
Leadership & Extracurriculars: This is where you really get to stand out. Ivy League schools are big on leadership and initiative. You’ve already taken a great step by opening an architecture club—that's leadership in action! Show them that you're someone who doesn’t wait for opportunities to come to you but creates them. If you can link this club to a community impact (organizing architecture workshops, helping others learn about the field, etc.), that’s like a double win. 🏆
Test Scores: Keep in mind, standardized test scores like SAT/ACT still matter. Aim for those top percentiles, but remember that Cornell and the Ivy League have increasingly become test-optional, so if you don't test well, there are still plenty of ways to shine. 📚
2. What to Focus On: Grades vs. Leadership?
Ah, the classic debate: Should I focus more on grades or community involvement? Both matter, but here’s the trick: Ivy League schools want to see a holistic profile—which means balance between academic performance and outside-the-classroom activities.
1. Grades:
Your GPA is strong, but taking more AP and college courses will definitely help! Especially with architecture, showing that you can handle rigorous coursework will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a challenging academic environment.
Also, if you’re planning to take 2 APs and 2 college courses senior year, that’s a great step! Make sure you continue challenging yourself while keeping that GPA high (no pressure, right? 😅).
2. Leadership & Extracurriculars:
Leadership is HUGE. If you’re running the architecture club, make it a standout activity. Organize events, make connections with local architects, maybe even design a building or structure for a community project. The more impactful you can make your role, the better. Your leadership doesn’t have to be in some fancy “president of the world” role; it just has to be meaningful. A consistent effort can often outshine titles.
Ivy Leagues love applicants who show they can take initiative, collaborate, and create opportunities where none existed before. You’re doing great by leading the club—just make sure it’s an experience that highlights your growth. 📈
3. Application Tips:
Essays: You have an amazing opportunity here. Tell them about why architecture excites you, and don’t be afraid to show your personal story. Maybe how your love for the field started, what you’ve learned through your club, and how you envision your future at Cornell and beyond. Cornell is all about diverse perspectives, so give them yours!
Letters of Recommendation: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to both your academic abilities and your passion for architecture. A teacher who can talk about your leadership and impact on the architecture club would be great!
Show Your Commitment: You don’t need to be involved in every club at school (unless you’re secretly a superhero with unlimited energy 🦸), but showing dedication to a few select activities can highlight your passion and depth of commitment.
3. How to Keep Improving Your Profile:
Get involved in summer programs related to architecture or design. Summer internships or programs show real-world commitment.
Try to build your portfolio. Even as a high schooler, you can start creating a portfolio with any design projects or artwork that reflects your architectural interests.
Network with professionals in the field—attend events, ask for advice, and stay active in your community.
Don’t forget your personal health. Ivy League admissions are intense, so remember to balance your stress with a good dose of fun! Maybe attend a workshop that combines architecture and yoga for a refreshing take on design? 😜
Summary:
Your 3.8 GPA is solid, but focus on more rigorous coursework in senior year, like APs and college classes.
Ivy Leagues want both good grades and leadership—your architecture club is a great start! Take it to the next level by organizing events, collaborating, and showing community impact.
Your essays are your chance to shine—tell your story with passion, especially about why architecture excites you.
Keep pushing yourself with extracurriculars and networking, but also have fun! You’re on the right path! 🙌
So, get ready to rock that Cornell application like the architect you are! 🏛️🚀