Students were given the opportunity to gain insight into the often puzzling world of college admissions on April 3. Hosted by the Oak Park High School PFA and Counseling department, representatives from 20 colleges across the nation led students in a mock admissions committee, deciding whether to accept, waitlist or reject three fictitious applicants to the imaginary “Lake Washington University.” This was followed by a college fair.
“The regional admission counselors of California’s goal is to share out-of-state opportunities for students,” Taylor Patterson, Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s California Regional Assistant Director of Admissions, said. “Our organization is here as a resource for both your school counselors, your parents and you as students to widen the options list as you think about colleges. We heavily represent a consortium of out-of-state and international schools, so we’re really here to share more information outside of the state of California.”
As there were multiple mock committee groups, uniformity with the information provided was important to maintain.
“It’s a really big part for us to be strategic with the work that we do,” Isaac Cervantes, University of Oregon’s Regional Admissions counselor, said. “To build community, to develop professionally, so that as we’re connecting with students and families, we have the most up-to-date information. We’re sharing similar perspectives and knowledge so that we can be sharing a consistent message, because college can be confusing and the last thing you need is different messaging from different schools.”
The ultimate goal of the event was to educate students about the behind-the-scenes decision making when it comes to college admissions. Representatives in separate mock committee groups reviewed the different aspects of each imaginary applicant, providing insight from their personal experiences.
When it came to grades, the importance of upward growth, consistency and rigor was emphasized. Officers explained that in terms of extracurricular activities, they tend to look for leadership and long-term commitment. Soft skills from a job like teamwork and punctuality can also be used in this section.
One of the largest points of focus was the personal essay. Using the mock essays as a starting point, representatives pointed out cliches often used, including focusing on another person or explaining extracurriculars paragraph by paragraph.
Their advice? Provide the officer reading your essay with personality, your story and a unique perspective. Don’t try to be something you’re not by forcing humor or wit. Playing to your strengths and being strategic with your prompt choices is the best way to stand out amidst thousands of applicants.
Another key area not to neglect is the extra information section. Instead of using it to reiterate the extracurriculars you’ve already compiled, utilize this section to explain any gaps in your GPA if they were the result of personal issues or struggles. Using the example of imaginary applicant “Zac Antonio Romero” who had low grades as a result of also caring for his sister outside of school, officers explained how the additional context aided them in making a decision.
Finally, the importance of the writing supplements section is not to be ignored. While many tend to think that the applicant with the highest GPA and most extracurriculars will always be selected, it’s important to remember that smaller institutions are looking for the person who best fits the mold of the school.
Be intentional in explaining your desire to attend an institution, with specificity when it comes to a major. Remember that colleges aren’t just looking for the highest achievers, but those who will be involved in the community at large.
And finally, be broad with your applications and create a diverse list of schools that are good options for you.
“The big takeaways are going into the college process more confidently, now knowing what it is that mainly admissions officers are looking at,” Cervantes said. “Lean into what it is that you want as a student, and as you’re searching for the right fit, know exactly what you’re asking so that the questions lead you to the right school ultimately.”
