During the past few summers, I have devoted my time to working at a local day camp in the “Survival” unit, engaged with children and helping them light fires, practice archery, identify plants, and setup tents. I also belay them as they scale our 50’ climbing tower, zip them across the lake on our zip line, and paddle them through rapids, among other activities. Over the years, I’ve watched countless counselors come in and out of the unit—very few...

After being deferred, I sent a long, sincere email to my admissions counselor. I told why I...

Have something that stands out about yourself. Of course you have to be well rounded, but colleges get...