Do Not Let Them Figure Out Who You Are

Each college admission officer reviews hundreds and hundreds of applications. Sure, they analyze applications for student grade point averages, difficulty of curriculum, and SAT/ACT scores, but they also work to understand the personality and character of each student applicant. Before they accept or reject a student for admission, admission officers will determine where each student applicant fits into their college community and how their college will benefit from a student being part of the incoming freshman class.

However, as a college-bound student you should not let college admission officers figure out how and where you fit into their college community. Instead, YOU need to tell THEM where you fit in and how your enrollment will make their college community a better place for everyone.

How can you convey who you really are to college admission officers and how you will fit in? The best way is to develop a Student Theme and make sure it is worked into all application materials.

A Student Theme is a clear, consistent and compelling picture of your personality and character. It is a portrait of who you are and should highlight your interests, educational goals, supporting activities, and uniqueness; it should clearly link your interests, activities and college/career goals. This is not difficult to create a Student Theme, but it will take some thought to work into your college application materials.

Therefore, college-bound students should develop a Student Theme that will be used as a common thread in every part of their applications. Student Themes must demonstrate a student’s individuality, best qualities, and spirit to college admission officers reading their application. Students should remind adult recommenders to include important aspects of their Theme in their letters of recommendation.

Having a consistent Student Theme included in all application materials will dramatically increase your chance for acceptance to your colleges of choice. Work with your parents and teachers to develop a Theme and weave into all college application materials.

For more information visit MyCollegeCalendar.org.