College Admissions: Making the Grade
While college admission officers first look at a student’s high school academic record and Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores, beyond that many other factors enter into the equation as possible indicators of a student’s ability and potential for future success.
Getting into college
Participation in extracurricular activities and civic involvement can sometimes be the deciding factor in whether or not a college chooses to accept your child. Many admissions directors are very interested in the quality and make-up of individuals attending their colleges or universities. Thus, your child needs to include a “résumé” of achievements and interests with his or her application.
Here are some “extras” that may help enhance your child’s college application and further set him or her apart from other applicants:
• Awards
Demonstrate formal recognition of your child’s ability to excel in a particular area.
• Sports participation
Shows your child has a competitive drive and a winning attitude.
• Extracurricular activities
Can also highlight your child’s competitive spirit, leadership qualities, and overall interests.
• Volunteer work and church/temple/synagogue involvement
Could tell an admissions director that your child is active in the community and has good moral character, leadership, and life skills.
• Political involvement
May demonstrate your child’s strong leadership skills and public awareness.
• Work experience
Can indicate your child is responsible and has a strong work ethic.
• Hobbies and special interests
Can give a college or university a better understanding of “who” your child is, in addition to shedding some light on other areas of knowledge he or she may possess.
Any of these “extras” may give your student an extra “edge” when it comes time to apply to the college of his or her choice.
If you're a parent wondering how you're going to financially pay for college, learn about FAFSA(R) myths.
