College Admissions Expert Elizabeth Levine: Do Well in School, Be Nice and Find Your Passion – Wise Words from an MIT Admissions Counselor

When I'm asked “What more can my child do to round out their resume” I always say, do what you enjoy and you will do more of it. Don't feel that you have to check off all of the boxes, thinking that is the magic ticket to gain acceptance to your school of choice. On the contrary, just be you. And give back with what it is you enjoy. If you love soccer, you can help children who play soccer to learn the game. If your passion is theatre, help those in a local youth drama club.
I'm also frequently asked, what do schools want and what do I need to do to get in? My response is, it is not about what they want but about you, being you, and not trying to be someone you are not. Admissions counselors read thousands of applications and they can cite when a student isn't being genuine. Also, have no regrets come May 1 of your senior year when you are putting down that deposit on the college you will attend. What does that mean? Do your best in school. Don't look back and say “I wish I studied more, I wish I put the effort in to get better grades.” And see my first paragraph above. Follow it and embrace it.
A mom of one of my students sent me the link (below) to MIT's blog and their post summarizes it for everyone and, although they speak from being an MIT admissions counselor, this applies to anyone applying to college. They call it, “Applying Sideways”. Enjoy!
MIT Admissions Blog – Applying Sideways http://mitadmissions.org/blogs/entry/applying_sideways