11 answers
Farida
Student
Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
10
Questions
Asked
1075 views
What are your top tips for students looking to get into prestigious colleges?
Getting into prestigious colleges is something a lot of high school students desire to do.
People provide different types of advice, however things can often feel confusing due to the level of different opinions. So, what do you think allows a student to prove unique to those top schools?
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11 answers
Georgie Ariano
Lead an Enterprise Sales Organization for a Software Company
3
Answers
Boonton, New Jersey
Updated
Georgie’s Answer
Great Question Farida. The college application and acceptance process is full of milestones and fraught with wonder if you're landing in the right place. One thing to remember, any higher education opportunity is a gift and it is what you do with it that really matters.
Now for getting into a prestigious college, remember they will specialize in certain areas. I would ask yourself what excites you (writing, communicating, innovating, listening, helping others). These will help you view the list of colleges according to what is GREAT and BEST for you.
From there using platforms like Naviance of SCOR may help provide greater detail about their most recent acceptance rates and what they look for.
Schools are looking for a full person. Academics, Community Service, Builders. Be unabashed about your skills and work on telling your story. Tell your story in a way that it can support the greater good.
The schools have readers that are visiting highschools. Visit their tables and get more intimate with their selection process. you got this!
Now for getting into a prestigious college, remember they will specialize in certain areas. I would ask yourself what excites you (writing, communicating, innovating, listening, helping others). These will help you view the list of colleges according to what is GREAT and BEST for you.
From there using platforms like Naviance of SCOR may help provide greater detail about their most recent acceptance rates and what they look for.
Schools are looking for a full person. Academics, Community Service, Builders. Be unabashed about your skills and work on telling your story. Tell your story in a way that it can support the greater good.
The schools have readers that are visiting highschools. Visit their tables and get more intimate with their selection process. you got this!
Thank you for your encouragement and support! I greatly appreciate your advice, and found it extremely helpful!
Farida
Steven Harvath
Software Engineer
2
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Steven’s Answer
As someone who went through the rigor of applying to prestigious universities as a teenager, here are a few of my takeaways:
1. These colleges highly value intellectual curiosity and how that curiosity is applied. It's of great benefit if you can demonstrate the ability to 'create' and cultivate impact by solving (or helping to solve) real world problems. One example is this could be being able to identify a gap in your community and building a sustainable program to address it.
2. Prestigious universities will often evaluate your ability to take risks. If you challenge yourself on an intellectual level and encounter a setback, can you 'bounce back' and tell a compelling narrative (perhaps in an admissions essay).
3. Colleges want to know how you think. Beyond just a solid GPA (though that is an important factor), these institutions want to know what you value and how you've grown beyond a high school resume. Admissions officers are going to look at your ability to collaborate and push boundaries.
1. These colleges highly value intellectual curiosity and how that curiosity is applied. It's of great benefit if you can demonstrate the ability to 'create' and cultivate impact by solving (or helping to solve) real world problems. One example is this could be being able to identify a gap in your community and building a sustainable program to address it.
2. Prestigious universities will often evaluate your ability to take risks. If you challenge yourself on an intellectual level and encounter a setback, can you 'bounce back' and tell a compelling narrative (perhaps in an admissions essay).
3. Colleges want to know how you think. Beyond just a solid GPA (though that is an important factor), these institutions want to know what you value and how you've grown beyond a high school resume. Admissions officers are going to look at your ability to collaborate and push boundaries.
Thank you so much for your response! You have shared an extremely valuable perspective with me, and I appreciate it!
Farida
P R
Product & Program Management
2
Answers
Leander, Texas
Updated
P’s Answer
I'm going to talk about an unconventional route to get into top schools - Transfer Student. Transferring to a top-tier school is a different beast than freshman admissions. You aren't being judged on 'potential' anymore, you’re being judged on proven performance.
Here is the quick list of what actually moves the needle in 2026:
1. The "Anchor" GPA - Your college GPA is now your most important credential. For prestigious schools, a 3.8 or higher is the baseline. They need to see that you can handle rigorous, high-level coursework at the university level without the "hand-holding" of high school.
2. Define the Academic Gap - The biggest mistake is sounding like you’re just "upgrading." You need to prove a resource gap. Bad Reason: "I want a more prestigious name on my degree." Good Reason: "My current institution doesn't offer (Specific Research/Niche Major/Advanced Lab), which is essential for my work in (Your Field)."
3. Build Professor Relationships - A glowing recommendation from a college professor beats a high school teacher’s letter every time. Go to office hours. Assist with research. You need someone to vouch that "This student is already doing work at your level."
4. Quality Over Quantity - Don't join ten clubs. Focus on one or two high-impact activities that align with your major. Prestigious schools want specialists, not "well-rounded" generalists.
All the best!
Here is the quick list of what actually moves the needle in 2026:
1. The "Anchor" GPA - Your college GPA is now your most important credential. For prestigious schools, a 3.8 or higher is the baseline. They need to see that you can handle rigorous, high-level coursework at the university level without the "hand-holding" of high school.
2. Define the Academic Gap - The biggest mistake is sounding like you’re just "upgrading." You need to prove a resource gap. Bad Reason: "I want a more prestigious name on my degree." Good Reason: "My current institution doesn't offer (Specific Research/Niche Major/Advanced Lab), which is essential for my work in (Your Field)."
3. Build Professor Relationships - A glowing recommendation from a college professor beats a high school teacher’s letter every time. Go to office hours. Assist with research. You need someone to vouch that "This student is already doing work at your level."
4. Quality Over Quantity - Don't join ten clubs. Focus on one or two high-impact activities that align with your major. Prestigious schools want specialists, not "well-rounded" generalists.
All the best!
Thank you very, very much for your wonderful advice! This was extremely helpful, and you answered my question exactly as I hoped someone would.
Farida
Ryan Morgan
Software Engineer
3
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Hi there Farida! The first question to ponder is your motivations for getting into a prestigious school. Are you driven by a desire to excel, to receive recognition, to achieve etc.?
As someone who has studied at a prestigious university, it's been my experience that what you're hoping to study should be more of a driving factor in your choice of school than prestige. The faculty you study under will be much more of an influence on your educational journey than the school that happens to be on your diploma, especially if you decide to enter a research field.
For example, Carnegie Mellon University is recognized as one of the top computer science / software engineering schools in the US. If one was set on studying at an Ivy League university exclusively, Ivy League being comprised of many of the most prestigious universities in the US, then one might rule out and not apply for what could be an incredibly rewarding and valuable experience with CMU.
Success in my experience is rarely a linear journey and looks different for everyone, that is to say its not reserved for those who are accepted to prestigious universities alone. All that being said, let's jump to some practical tips on how to achieve that dream if you really want to - and I believe you can if you want to work for it!
I completed my undergraduate degree at a small private university in Oregon, United States. My degree is in French, but toward the end of my degree, I began taking advanced ancient languages courses in Ancient Greek and Classical Latin. Because I was enrolled in those courses for my undergraduate, my university at the time forwarded me an admission advertisement to a Post-Bacc (advanced degree but below Master's) program with the University of Pennsylvania, an Ivy League school. Through this program I was successfully able to take 6 years of language courses in 1 year.
Fast forward a few years and my interests had changed from Ancient Languages to Computer Science. All of that time studying massive amounts of human grammar enabled an easy transition to studying and understanding the language of computers. Due to my prior enrollment in the Post-Bacc program, I was able to apply to UPenn's computer science department with a leg up on the competition. Schools look favorably on prior students returning. I had no idea at the time that studying in the Post-Bacc program would open a future door in my career, a door that I wasn't even remotely aware of at the time. Talk about a non-linear journey!
Another piece to add is that if at first you don't succeed, try try again! I would encourage you to apply to a broad array of universities that are excellent in your field of choice and then, once the acceptance letters come in, pick the best one for you. If for any reason your dream school does not admit you, you can always try again next year. At least some students who are admitted to top schools will end up dropping out, and many if not most schools have entire programs devoted to securing top talent among transfer students.
As someone who has studied at a prestigious university, it's been my experience that what you're hoping to study should be more of a driving factor in your choice of school than prestige. The faculty you study under will be much more of an influence on your educational journey than the school that happens to be on your diploma, especially if you decide to enter a research field.
For example, Carnegie Mellon University is recognized as one of the top computer science / software engineering schools in the US. If one was set on studying at an Ivy League university exclusively, Ivy League being comprised of many of the most prestigious universities in the US, then one might rule out and not apply for what could be an incredibly rewarding and valuable experience with CMU.
Success in my experience is rarely a linear journey and looks different for everyone, that is to say its not reserved for those who are accepted to prestigious universities alone. All that being said, let's jump to some practical tips on how to achieve that dream if you really want to - and I believe you can if you want to work for it!
I completed my undergraduate degree at a small private university in Oregon, United States. My degree is in French, but toward the end of my degree, I began taking advanced ancient languages courses in Ancient Greek and Classical Latin. Because I was enrolled in those courses for my undergraduate, my university at the time forwarded me an admission advertisement to a Post-Bacc (advanced degree but below Master's) program with the University of Pennsylvania, an Ivy League school. Through this program I was successfully able to take 6 years of language courses in 1 year.
Fast forward a few years and my interests had changed from Ancient Languages to Computer Science. All of that time studying massive amounts of human grammar enabled an easy transition to studying and understanding the language of computers. Due to my prior enrollment in the Post-Bacc program, I was able to apply to UPenn's computer science department with a leg up on the competition. Schools look favorably on prior students returning. I had no idea at the time that studying in the Post-Bacc program would open a future door in my career, a door that I wasn't even remotely aware of at the time. Talk about a non-linear journey!
Another piece to add is that if at first you don't succeed, try try again! I would encourage you to apply to a broad array of universities that are excellent in your field of choice and then, once the acceptance letters come in, pick the best one for you. If for any reason your dream school does not admit you, you can always try again next year. At least some students who are admitted to top schools will end up dropping out, and many if not most schools have entire programs devoted to securing top talent among transfer students.
Thank you so much for your response, I appreciate it! Your response was not just personal, but greatly enjoyable to read and allowed me to explore the perspective of an individual with experience I can learn a lot from!
Farida
Joseph Aseo
Freeelance Technical Writer
36
Answers
San Ramon, California
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
Your question is similar to "What came first, the chicken or the egg?"
1. Your top priority is to ask the question "Why do I want to to college?" In other word, what goals do you want to accomplish that a college degree is required (or highly desired? You will be investing both your time (easily two or more years) and money ("presige" comes with a price).
2. If your goals require a college degree (or it is highly desirable), then research which colleges have the best reputation for you to achieve your goals. Does the college offer the curriculum and faculty that you want to invest your time and money?
3. Will a degree from a college prepare me to successfully transition to graduate or professional school?
4. Will a degree from a college prepare me for a successional professional career?
These are the questions that I answered before applying first to that two-year community college to complete my lower-graduates, transfer to a four-year college for my journalism degree, get accepted by two law schools, and retire recently from a 45 year career in Silicon Valley as a technical writer
1. Your top priority is to ask the question "Why do I want to to college?" In other word, what goals do you want to accomplish that a college degree is required (or highly desired? You will be investing both your time (easily two or more years) and money ("presige" comes with a price).
2. If your goals require a college degree (or it is highly desirable), then research which colleges have the best reputation for you to achieve your goals. Does the college offer the curriculum and faculty that you want to invest your time and money?
3. Will a degree from a college prepare me to successfully transition to graduate or professional school?
4. Will a degree from a college prepare me for a successional professional career?
These are the questions that I answered before applying first to that two-year community college to complete my lower-graduates, transfer to a four-year college for my journalism degree, get accepted by two law schools, and retire recently from a 45 year career in Silicon Valley as a technical writer
I absolutely loved reading this, as not only was it extremely helpful, but felt witty and welcoming to the reader! Thank you very much for your time and effort, it will not go to waste!
Farida
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2423
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. There are different top colleges on different subjects. Firstly, I suggest you can identify what careers you have interest first. Then, you can shortlist the top colleges which are strong on the relevant subjects.
Below are my my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a singer, musician, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, finance manager, engineer, financial analyst, banker, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Explore the colleges review on the relevant subjects and identify the top colleges
4. Attend the information sessions host by the relevant department of the top colleges
5. Find out the entry criteria of these colleges and work hard to meet the entry criteria
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a singer, musician, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, finance manager, engineer, financial analyst, banker, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Explore the colleges review on the relevant subjects and identify the top colleges
4. Attend the information sessions host by the relevant department of the top colleges
5. Find out the entry criteria of these colleges and work hard to meet the entry criteria
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Thank you for the advice, I truly appreciate it! Your list is precise, and simple, making it perfect to look back up on!
Farida
George Zou, M.S.
Academic Advisor
38
Answers
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Updated
George’s Answer
Hi Farida,
Getting into a prestigious college is a goal many high school students dream about. These schools often have strong programs, famous names, and many opportunities. Because of this, a lot of advice is shared online, at school, and by family members. Some people say grades matter most. Others say activities, leadership, or essays are the key. With so many opinions, it can feel confusing and stressful. While there is no single formula, there *are* clear habits and choices that help students stand out. What truly matters is showing who you are, how you think, and how you grow. One of the most important things prestigious colleges look for is strong effort in school. Good grades matter because they show that you can handle hard work over time. Colleges want to see that you challenge yourself, not just take easy classes. This means taking harder courses when you can, like honors, AP, or IB classes, and doing your best in them. However, grades alone are not enough. Many students applying to top schools have high grades, so colleges look beyond numbers.
Another key factor is consistency. Doing well one year and poorly the next can raise questions. Colleges like students who show steady effort and improvement. If you struggled at first but later improved, that can actually be a strength if you explain it well. Improvement shows maturity, self-awareness, and determination. These are qualities colleges value. Extracurricular activities are also big part of a strong application. Many students think they need to do as many activities as possible, but this is not true. It is better to be deeply involved in a few activities than lightly involved in many. Prestigious colleges want to see commitment. They want to know what you care about and how you spend your time outside of class.
Being unique does not mean doing something rare or flashy. It means being genuine. If you love music, sports, science, art, helping others, or working a job, those things matter if you truly care about them. Colleges notice when students stick with activities for many years and take on more responsibility over time. Leadership does not always mean being the president of a club. It can mean mentoring others, starting something new, or taking initiative when something needs to be done.
Another important tip is to focus on impact, not titles. Ask yourself how you made a difference. Did you help others? Did you solve a problem? Did you create something meaningful? These questions matter more than how impressive an activity sounds. Colleges want students who will contribute to their campus and community, not just students who collect achievements. Your personal statement and essays are also very important. This is where your voice truly matters. Many students have similar grades and activities, but no one has your exact story or way of thinking. A strong essay does not try to impress with big words or dramatic stories. Instead, it is honest, thoughtful, and clear. It shows how you think, what you value, and how you grow from experiences.
When writing essays, focus on reflection. Do not just explain what happened. Explain what you learned and how it changed you. Colleges want to see maturity and self-understanding. Simple language is often better than fancy language. Writing clearly shows confidence and strong thinking skills. One tip is to build strong relationships with teachers and mentors. Recommendation letters matter more than many students realize. A good letter shows who you are in the classroom and how you treat others. Teachers who know you well can write about your character, work ethic, and growth. This is much stronger than a generic letter from someone who barely knows you.
To build these relationships, participate in class, ask questions, and show effort. Be respectful and curious. Over time, teachers will notice. When it is time to ask for a recommendation, choose someone who truly understands you, not just someone who gave you a high grade. Time management is another important skill. Students aiming for top colleges often feel overwhelmed. Learning how to balance school, activities, rest, and personal life is important. Burnout can hurt both your performance and your happiness. Colleges do not want students who work themselves into exhaustion. They want students who can manage responsibility in a healthy way.
It is also important to remember that prestigious colleges look for fit, not perfection. They are building a community, not just choosing the “best” students. This means different students are valued for different reasons. One student might stand out for research, another for creativity, and another for leadership or kindness. Trying to copy what someone else did can make your application feel fake. Being yourself is more powerful.
Standardized tests can matter, but they are not everything. Many top schools now look at applications more holistically. If your test scores are strong, they can help. If they are weaker, other parts of your application can still shine. What matters most is the full picture of who you are.
One helpful tip is to start early and plan ahead. Waiting until the last minute can add stress and lower quality. Give yourself time to explore interests, improve skills, and reflect on your experiences. Planning also helps you choose colleges that truly fit your goals and values, not just their reputation. It is also important to define success for yourself. Prestigious colleges are not the only path to a meaningful life. Many successful and happy people did not attend elite schools. Chasing prestige alone can lead to disappointment. Instead, focus on growth, learning, and purpose. Ironically, students who do this often become more attractive to top colleges because they are grounded and confident.
Finally, remember that rejection does not define your worth. Prestigious colleges reject many strong students every year simply because they have limited space. This is not a judgment of your value or future success. What matters most is how you keep learning and moving forward.
In the end, what makes a student unique is not perfection, but authenticity. Strong effort, deep interests, reflection, kindness, and growth all matter. When you focus on becoming the best version of yourself instead of trying to impress everyone, your application becomes stronger. Prestigious colleges look for real people with purpose, not perfect resumes. I wish best of luck and please reach out to me if there are any additional questions.
Best,
George
Getting into a prestigious college is a goal many high school students dream about. These schools often have strong programs, famous names, and many opportunities. Because of this, a lot of advice is shared online, at school, and by family members. Some people say grades matter most. Others say activities, leadership, or essays are the key. With so many opinions, it can feel confusing and stressful. While there is no single formula, there *are* clear habits and choices that help students stand out. What truly matters is showing who you are, how you think, and how you grow. One of the most important things prestigious colleges look for is strong effort in school. Good grades matter because they show that you can handle hard work over time. Colleges want to see that you challenge yourself, not just take easy classes. This means taking harder courses when you can, like honors, AP, or IB classes, and doing your best in them. However, grades alone are not enough. Many students applying to top schools have high grades, so colleges look beyond numbers.
Another key factor is consistency. Doing well one year and poorly the next can raise questions. Colleges like students who show steady effort and improvement. If you struggled at first but later improved, that can actually be a strength if you explain it well. Improvement shows maturity, self-awareness, and determination. These are qualities colleges value. Extracurricular activities are also big part of a strong application. Many students think they need to do as many activities as possible, but this is not true. It is better to be deeply involved in a few activities than lightly involved in many. Prestigious colleges want to see commitment. They want to know what you care about and how you spend your time outside of class.
Being unique does not mean doing something rare or flashy. It means being genuine. If you love music, sports, science, art, helping others, or working a job, those things matter if you truly care about them. Colleges notice when students stick with activities for many years and take on more responsibility over time. Leadership does not always mean being the president of a club. It can mean mentoring others, starting something new, or taking initiative when something needs to be done.
Another important tip is to focus on impact, not titles. Ask yourself how you made a difference. Did you help others? Did you solve a problem? Did you create something meaningful? These questions matter more than how impressive an activity sounds. Colleges want students who will contribute to their campus and community, not just students who collect achievements. Your personal statement and essays are also very important. This is where your voice truly matters. Many students have similar grades and activities, but no one has your exact story or way of thinking. A strong essay does not try to impress with big words or dramatic stories. Instead, it is honest, thoughtful, and clear. It shows how you think, what you value, and how you grow from experiences.
When writing essays, focus on reflection. Do not just explain what happened. Explain what you learned and how it changed you. Colleges want to see maturity and self-understanding. Simple language is often better than fancy language. Writing clearly shows confidence and strong thinking skills. One tip is to build strong relationships with teachers and mentors. Recommendation letters matter more than many students realize. A good letter shows who you are in the classroom and how you treat others. Teachers who know you well can write about your character, work ethic, and growth. This is much stronger than a generic letter from someone who barely knows you.
To build these relationships, participate in class, ask questions, and show effort. Be respectful and curious. Over time, teachers will notice. When it is time to ask for a recommendation, choose someone who truly understands you, not just someone who gave you a high grade. Time management is another important skill. Students aiming for top colleges often feel overwhelmed. Learning how to balance school, activities, rest, and personal life is important. Burnout can hurt both your performance and your happiness. Colleges do not want students who work themselves into exhaustion. They want students who can manage responsibility in a healthy way.
It is also important to remember that prestigious colleges look for fit, not perfection. They are building a community, not just choosing the “best” students. This means different students are valued for different reasons. One student might stand out for research, another for creativity, and another for leadership or kindness. Trying to copy what someone else did can make your application feel fake. Being yourself is more powerful.
Standardized tests can matter, but they are not everything. Many top schools now look at applications more holistically. If your test scores are strong, they can help. If they are weaker, other parts of your application can still shine. What matters most is the full picture of who you are.
One helpful tip is to start early and plan ahead. Waiting until the last minute can add stress and lower quality. Give yourself time to explore interests, improve skills, and reflect on your experiences. Planning also helps you choose colleges that truly fit your goals and values, not just their reputation. It is also important to define success for yourself. Prestigious colleges are not the only path to a meaningful life. Many successful and happy people did not attend elite schools. Chasing prestige alone can lead to disappointment. Instead, focus on growth, learning, and purpose. Ironically, students who do this often become more attractive to top colleges because they are grounded and confident.
Finally, remember that rejection does not define your worth. Prestigious colleges reject many strong students every year simply because they have limited space. This is not a judgment of your value or future success. What matters most is how you keep learning and moving forward.
In the end, what makes a student unique is not perfection, but authenticity. Strong effort, deep interests, reflection, kindness, and growth all matter. When you focus on becoming the best version of yourself instead of trying to impress everyone, your application becomes stronger. Prestigious colleges look for real people with purpose, not perfect resumes. I wish best of luck and please reach out to me if there are any additional questions.
Best,
George
Thank you for your advice! Your response was lengthy, filled with perspective, personal, and greatly enjoyable to read. All of these qualities make your response perfect, and super helpful to me!
Farida
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
1058
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Here are a few more suggestions:
Prioritize "Fit" Over Prestige: A college should match your personal and career goals. Many times future recruiters often do not look at the "Ivy" name, like most people think, and that a school's name is not a strong predictor of job performance.
Conduct In-Depth Research: I strongly recommends visiting campuses to understand the environment, geography, and available resources. I have observed that students who are comfortable with their campus environment tend to experience less adversity and persist longer in their studies.
Understand Selectivity: The process is extremely competitive and talented students may be admitted to one institution but not another, or none at all. Because of this, I advise applicants not to take any rejections personally.
Focus on Holistic Preparation: While academic excellence is expected, applicants should focus on showing who they are beyond their grades. I have advised against using famous cliches or "buzzwords" in essays and suggests thinking about what you want readers to know that isn't elsewhere in the application.
Explore Financial Support: Many Ivy League schools have generous financial aid policies and encourages many students to apply regardless of their financial background.
Prioritize "Fit" Over Prestige: A college should match your personal and career goals. Many times future recruiters often do not look at the "Ivy" name, like most people think, and that a school's name is not a strong predictor of job performance.
Conduct In-Depth Research: I strongly recommends visiting campuses to understand the environment, geography, and available resources. I have observed that students who are comfortable with their campus environment tend to experience less adversity and persist longer in their studies.
Understand Selectivity: The process is extremely competitive and talented students may be admitted to one institution but not another, or none at all. Because of this, I advise applicants not to take any rejections personally.
Focus on Holistic Preparation: While academic excellence is expected, applicants should focus on showing who they are beyond their grades. I have advised against using famous cliches or "buzzwords" in essays and suggests thinking about what you want readers to know that isn't elsewhere in the application.
Explore Financial Support: Many Ivy League schools have generous financial aid policies and encourages many students to apply regardless of their financial background.
Vianne Phan
Youth Development Teacher
62
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Vianne’s Answer
The biggest thing I’ve noticed is that top schools are not hunting for some perfect checklist student. They’re trying to understand who you are and why you’d add something to their campus. The strongest applications usually have a clear “story” to them. That doesn’t mean you need a dramatic life narrative, just that your classes, activities, and interests make sense together. When admissions officers can see a genuine direction instead of random achievements, you stand out way more.
Another huge thing is depth over quantity. A lot of high schoolers think they need to do everything, but that actually works against you. Prestigious schools care more about students who commit deeply to a few things and show growth over time. Being really involved in one or two activities, taking leadership seriously, or making a real impact matters more than stacking clubs. Anyone can join stuff, but not everyone sticks with it long enough to matter.
Grades and test scores are important, but they mostly just get your foot in the door. Once you’re academically competitive, what separates people is personality, reflection, and authenticity. Strong essays sound like a real person, not a brag sheet, and good recommendation letters come from teachers who genuinely know you. If you focus on doing well in school, building meaningful interests, and being consistent instead of chasing prestige, you’ll be in a much better position than you think.
Another huge thing is depth over quantity. A lot of high schoolers think they need to do everything, but that actually works against you. Prestigious schools care more about students who commit deeply to a few things and show growth over time. Being really involved in one or two activities, taking leadership seriously, or making a real impact matters more than stacking clubs. Anyone can join stuff, but not everyone sticks with it long enough to matter.
Grades and test scores are important, but they mostly just get your foot in the door. Once you’re academically competitive, what separates people is personality, reflection, and authenticity. Strong essays sound like a real person, not a brag sheet, and good recommendation letters come from teachers who genuinely know you. If you focus on doing well in school, building meaningful interests, and being consistent instead of chasing prestige, you’ll be in a much better position than you think.
semi hayat
Professional Resume Writer
20
Answers
Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
Updated
semi’s Answer
Top colleges look for clarity, depth, and impact, not just perfect grades.
The students who stand out usually show deep commitment to a few interests, real impact in what they do, and a clear story about who they’re becoming. Strong academics are expected, but authentic passion, leadership through action, and thoughtful reflection are what make an application memorable.
In short: be genuinely curious, go deep, and show growth, not just achievements.
The students who stand out usually show deep commitment to a few interests, real impact in what they do, and a clear story about who they’re becoming. Strong academics are expected, but authentic passion, leadership through action, and thoughtful reflection are what make an application memorable.
In short: be genuinely curious, go deep, and show growth, not just achievements.
Soni Bae
Management Consulting
9
Answers
Fairfax, Virginia
Updated
Soni’s Answer
Hi Farida,
Each school and program is different. However, admissions will want to see that you have consistently good grades across subjects to see that you are a well-rounded, hardworking, and diligent student. Admissions want to see students that will bring value to their school. As for extracurriculars, colleges want to see you dive deep into your passions and excel at them. It's better that focus on a few or even just one hobby whether that's in music, sports, etc. instead of dabbling in multiple areas. A lot of students these days have good grades, high GPAs, and excel at their extracurriculars. To really stand out, I would say to write with authenticity and think outside the box as you write your college application essays. It's easy to write with the mindset of wanting to stand out and having a perfect, unique essay, but don't let that overshadow who you really are as an individual. Admissions offices want to see the real person as they review your application- not a copy of the 10 previous applicants. All that being said, the college application process is truly a stressful one. Don't let this stress steal your joy! Everything truly works out in the end, and many people end up on great career paths even if they don't go to the most prestigious universities. Best of luck to you!
Each school and program is different. However, admissions will want to see that you have consistently good grades across subjects to see that you are a well-rounded, hardworking, and diligent student. Admissions want to see students that will bring value to their school. As for extracurriculars, colleges want to see you dive deep into your passions and excel at them. It's better that focus on a few or even just one hobby whether that's in music, sports, etc. instead of dabbling in multiple areas. A lot of students these days have good grades, high GPAs, and excel at their extracurriculars. To really stand out, I would say to write with authenticity and think outside the box as you write your college application essays. It's easy to write with the mindset of wanting to stand out and having a perfect, unique essay, but don't let that overshadow who you really are as an individual. Admissions offices want to see the real person as they review your application- not a copy of the 10 previous applicants. All that being said, the college application process is truly a stressful one. Don't let this stress steal your joy! Everything truly works out in the end, and many people end up on great career paths even if they don't go to the most prestigious universities. Best of luck to you!