Even bright candidates can be rejected by American universities if they don't know how to choose extracurricular activities to include in their application, or if they don't research the school.
According to Christopher Rim, Director of Command Education, a college admissions consulting firm in New York (USA), there are five common mistakes that candidates often make when applying to college.
No extracurricular activities
Many applicants list a variety of extracurricular activities in different areas because they believe that colleges want to admit “well-rounded students.” While this is part of your application, you should prioritize quality over quantity.
Rather than looking at the many activities you participate in superficially, the admissions committee is more interested in your genuine commitment to a few representative activities through which you demonstrate your selectivity and leadership abilities.
Activities should also support the interests and hobbies you explore both in and out of the classroom. They will help you tell a coherent story about your passions. So ask yourself what you truly love, and highlight your dedication and leadership in that area.
Only care about the score
While many applicants take the time to participate in clubs or school activities, others ignore all of that, thinking that perfect grades are all that is needed. This is also not true.
Top colleges may fill their student body with high school valedictorians and perfect SAT scores, but they want young people with unique interests and passions who will make a positive contribution to their communities.
Therefore, the admissions committee is interested in your character, passion, and experience in leadership or making a difference in your community during your high school years. Make sure your application reflects these qualities.
Illustration: US News
Write general essays
Admissions committees read thousands of essays each admissions cycle, so if you have essays that are vague or repurposed, you will be lost in the crowd.
In addition to the main essay, some schools require applicants to submit supplemental essays. This is a requirement to help the school better understand your interests in the program or anything else in life. Supplemental essays will fail if they are not authentic or do not highlight the school's strengths that align with your goals.
Take the time to write a separate essay for each application, outlining why you are a good fit for that particular program and how you will contribute to the school community.
Not researching the school thoroughly
Researching and showing interest in a school is something many candidates often overlook when preparing their application. However, this is a factor that some admissions boards rely on when considering candidates.
We recommend visiting schools, attending seminars to learn more, or connecting with current students and faculty. If you can’t visit in person, you can join online discussions.
Another way to learn more about a school is to contact the admissions office and ask them to connect you with alumni in your area. This shows that you are genuinely interested and have made an effort to learn about the school.
Do not review profile
Submitting an application with multiple errors is one of the most common mistakes. Small errors can be grammar or spelling mistakes. Large errors can be failing to properly answer an essay prompt. All of these errors can overshadow the positive points of your application.
So before you submit, double-check for missing information, spelling, or formatting errors. It’s best to ask friends or family members to proofread your application for both content and appearance. Getting feedback from the people who know you best will ensure that your application truly reflects your personality and unique voice.
Additionally, a polished application shows that you are serious about the school and the admissions process.
Phuong Anh (According to Forbes )
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