What truly set me apart from other candidates was my unwavering passion. I wasn't out to impress anyone with cookie-cutter narratives or flashy buzzwords. Instead, I poured my heart into my application, making it a canvas that painted a vivid picture of who I am. I knew that trying to mold myself into what I thought admission officers wanted would be a disservice to my uniqueness. I...

Before stepping foot on campus, I had my fair share of misconceptions about college life. I used to think that getting into a college was like winning a prize, and that the more prestigious the institution, the better. College isn't a trophy to be claimed; it's a puzzle where the pieces need to fit just right. Applying to a slew of top-tier schools might sound impressive, but it's not a guarantee you'll get accepted everywhere. The real magic happens when the colleges see not...

Dealing with the stress of college applications requires a strategic game plan, and being organized is your MVP move. Seriously, your to-do lists are about to become your new best friends. Divide and conquer should be your mantra – create separate tabs or folders for each college application, and then map out a checklist for each one. This detailed plan should include everything from the main application and application fee to those pesky supplemental essays, teacher...

Considering a gap year before or even right in the middle of college? It's quite the decision, but let me tell you, it can be a game-changer. I did it during my college years, but I think starting before college can be a great decision and a way to prevent mental burnout. The question is, what did I do during my time off? Rot in bed and watch anime all day of course, duh! (just kidding.) I did a lot of serious stuff as well. Let's start with the GRE prep. Yeah, I get it, standardized tests are no one's...

Securing stellar recommendation letters is a pivotal part of your college application journey. Let's start with the key ingredient: the recommenders. When picking them, think quality over quantity. Go for individuals who know your academic and personal sides like a pro. It could be that science teacher who's seen you ace every lab or the club advisor who's seen you organize events flawlessly. Have candid chats with them about your plans and dreams,...

Taking as many AP exams as you can certainly has its merits, but it's essential to do so thoughtfully and strategically. Balancing this pursuit with your GPA, extracurricular commitments, and personal growth is crucial for a well-rounded high school experience. Firstly, AP exams can demonstrate your academic prowess and dedication to challenging yourself. They showcase your willingness to tackle college-level material and your commitment to learning. However, remember that quality matters more than quantity. It's better to excel in a few AP courses than to spread yourself too thin across many. A strong performance in a handful of AP exams...