What is Your Scale of Impact and How Does it Impact the Admission Process?
At Catapult College Counseling, I often encounter families who are keen on understanding the nuances of college selectivity and what it truly takes for a student to stand out in the highly competitive admissions landscape. Navigating this terrain can be daunting, especially when considering the most selective institutions that admit only 10% or fewer of their applicants. This article aims to shed light on what these colleges are looking for and how students can align their achievements and aspirations accordingly, by framing their achievements into different scales of impact: International, National and Regional, or Local and School.
INTERNATIONAL
When we talk about highly selective colleges, we are referring to institutions that have the luxury of being extraordinarily picky about whom they admit. These colleges are inundated with applications from students around the world who have not only excelled academically but also achieved remarkable feats on an international scale. Examples include:
Athletes: Junior Olympians or actual Olympians.
Researchers: Students who have published groundbreaking research in reputable journals.
Entrepreneurs: Young innovators whose ventures are making significant waves globally.
Simply creating an app or participating in extracurricular activities is often not enough. These institutions are seeking students who have demonstrated a level of impact that sets them apart on a global stage. This allows admissions offices to shape a class that is diverse, multifaceted, and poised to contribute significantly to their campus and beyond.
NATIONAL & REGIONAL
For many students, making an international impact may seem out of reach, but excelling at the national or regional level can also be highly impressive and meaningful. This includes:
Academic Competitions: Winning national or state-level science fairs, math competitions, or other academic contests.
Athletics: Excelling in state or national championships or being recognized as a top athlete in your region.
Arts: Receiving accolades for your artistic talents, whether in music, visual arts, or performance at a national or regional level.
These accomplishments are significant and demonstrate a student's dedication, skill, and potential to contribute to a college community. Colleges look for a mix of talents, backgrounds, and perspectives that will enhance the educational experience for all students. Importantly, they seek a well-rounded class of exceptional individuals rather than a group of well-rounded students who don't particularly stand out.
LOCAL & SCHOOL
It's important to remember that colleges also consider the context in which a student has achieved their accomplishments. For students with limited financial resources, at-home support, or those from smaller communities, making a significant impact locally or within their school can be particularly compelling. For instance:
Educational Initiatives: Implementing a school-wide initiative that transforms the culture or addresses a pressing issue.
College Courses: Taking college-level courses for free through dual enrollment programs or online platforms.
Community Impact: Leading projects that make a substantial difference in your school or local community, such as organizing a fundraiser that benefits a local charity or starting a mentorship program for younger students.
These achievements show resilience, resourcefulness, and a strong commitment to personal growth and community betterment. Colleges understand that students' opportunities can vary greatly, and they value the ingenuity and impact that students demonstrate within their available resources.
IMPACT IS RELATIVE AND CONTEXT MATTERS
While the bar for admission to the most selective colleges is exceedingly high, it's crucial for students to recognize the varied ways they can stand out. Whether by making an impact on an international stage, excelling at the national or regional level, or driving change within their local community or school, each student's journey is unique and valuable.
At Catapult College Counseling, we believe in celebrating every scale of impact and helping you present your achievements in the most compelling way possible. Remember, colleges appreciate the context of your accomplishments and are eager to see how you have made the most of your available resources. Embrace your journey, strive for excellence, and know that your efforts are meaningful and impactful, regardless of the scale.
