I’m asked all the time to give a definitive explanation of admission trends. To be honest, I have no idea. Neither does anyone else. So let’s start with a warning: DON’T BELIEVE ANYTHING YOU READ! AND…DON”T BELIEVE anyone who says they have the magic formula that will guarantee you admission (for an outrageous fee). Short of building a school from the ground up and putting your name on it…there are no guarantees! What we do know is that schools are as confused as we all are. What I also know is that in the end, schools “get it right” and we have to trust in the system. So then, what can you do? Well, first and foremost (and I know you have heard this time and again), keep your grades up! But more important IMHO is to become really curious about and inspired by what you are learning! Find a subject that fascinates you and go beyond your textbooks – search for Ted Talks, YouTubes, Podcasts – expand your sources! Beyond grades? Well, again IMHO, there is no substitute for doing something that truly can change the world. Why? Well, if at this age you are going beyond your own bubble, your own very small world – when you get to college you will continue to contribute, and you will continue to “do good” when you are out in the world, working and raising your own family. And this is what college admissions people are looking for – who will you be on campus and beyond? Will you care about others? Will you change the lives of others for the better? So trends in admissions? Stop looking for answers – there are none – focus on who you are both inside and outside the classroom. You will get into a school. You will either be happy or transfer – you will be just fine! Your life should not be defined by the decal on the back window of your car; it should be defined by your deeds! And there are no limits on that end to what you can accomplish!
– Barbara