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How to Write the "Why Cornell" Essay

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The Most Prestigious Summer Programs for High Schoolers

Get started on your application essays — this framework will help you for both your Common App essay and your supplementals!

A Useful Essay Writing Framework

Like many of the folks reading this post, I never had any life-changing circumstances or sob stories I could write about for college applications. I lived a fairly normal, uneventful life. As such, I spent weeks mulling over what topics I could discuss — what essays would make me stand out as an applicant. 

My Common App Essay: Pigeons

A few years ago, Harvard University was sued by Asian-American applicants for alleged bias in their affirmative action policies. In the wake of this lawsuit, the storied institution was forced to disclose some of their admissions practices. While I’m not here to pick a side in this matter, I did want to analyze what this lawsuit reveals about how Harvard accepts or denies applicants.

A Breakdown of Harvard's Admissions Lawsuit

A few days ago, I thought I would revisit some of the essays that got me into Stanford University. I’ll start with some of the shorter supplemental essays, and if you all find this type of analysis helpful, let me know and I’ll post more of these!

Sharing My Stanford Historical Moment Essay

Navigate your college admissions journey with confidence using these top 10 free resources that cover everything from application tips to financial aid insights.

Empowering Your College Journey in 2023: 10 Free Resources to Take Control of Your Admissions Process

Wondering about your acceptance possibilities at Harvard? Explore your admissions chances with this free tool. Additionally, receive valuable guidance on enhancing your prospects at no cost!

Will you get into Harvard? Check Your Acceptance Chances!

Curious what your admissions chances at MIT look like? Use this free tool to see. We'll also give you free advice on how you can improve your odds!

Will you get into MIT? Check Your Acceptance Chances with this Acceptance Rate Calculator!

Choosing the right colleges to apply to is a significant decision for students and their families. For high-achieving students, the allure of Ivy League schools often comes to the forefront. Renowned for their academic excellence and prestige, the Ivy League universities, including Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Brown, Dartmouth, Columbia, Cornell, and the University of Pennsylvania, have become synonymous with elite education. However, it's important to evaluate the benefits and considerations of attending an Ivy League school before making a decision.

The Value of an Ivy League Education: Evaluating the Benefits and Considerations

Demonstrated interest plays a vital role in the college admissions process, showcasing a student's genuine enthusiasm and commitment towards a particular college or university. While each institution weighs various factors when reviewing applications, demonstrated interest can often be a differentiating factor between equally qualified candidates. In this article, we will explore the importance of demonstrated interest, how it impacts admissions decisions, strategies for showcasing interest, and common mistakes to avoid.

The Significance of Demonstrated Interest in College Admissions

College visits are a valuable opportunity for prospective students to gather firsthand experiences and insights into their potential educational institutions. However, you might wonder: How much do college visits really matter in the decision-making process? Are they a crucial aspect of choosing a college, or can they be skipped without significant consequences? Let's explore the impact of college visits on decision-making to help you navigate this aspect of the college exploration journey.

College Visits: How Much Do They Matter and Tips for an Effective College Visit

Choosing the right college is a crucial decision that can shape your educational journey and future success. One essential factor to consider is the size of the institution. In this article, we will explore the advantages of attending both large and small colleges, helping you navigate the decision-making process and find the right fit for your educational goals.

Small vs Big Schools: Finding the Right Fit

In the wake of the Supreme Court's ruling to end affirmative action in college admissions, colleges across the United States are poised to adapt their policies and seek alternative strategies to foster diversity. Drawing insights from historical examples like UC Berkeley and the landmark Bakke case, this article explores the implications of the ruling, its potential impact on white and Asian applicants, and the evolving approaches colleges may take to maintain inclusive and equitable admissions practices.

The End of Affirmative Action in College Admissions: What to Expect

Discover the world of merit scholarships in this comprehensive guide. From academic and athletic scholarships to private company and member organization awards, explore various types of merit scholarships and learn how they can significantly reduce the cost of college education.

Understanding Merit Scholarships: A Comprehensive Guide

Discover the top ten colleges in America for studying economics, as we delve into their renowned programs, faculty expertise, research opportunities, and student outcomes. From Harvard and Stanford to MIT and Berkeley, explore the institutions that offer exceptional education in economics.

The Best Colleges in America for Economics

Dive into the world of extracurricular activities and their significant role in the college admissions process. This guide provides high school students with a comprehensive understanding of the various types of activities, strategies for balancing academics and extracurriculars, and tips on effectively showcasing these experiences on college applications. Learn how to stand out from the crowd and make your application shine with a well-rounded display of your passions, leadership skills, and community involvement.

The Impact of Extracurricular Activities on College Applications

Navigating the college admissions landscape can be daunting, but understanding the potential benefits of Advanced Placement (AP) courses can give high school students an edge. This article delves into how these college-level courses, offered in a variety of subjects, can enhance a student's academic profile and increase their chances of admission to top-tier universities. It also provides valuable tips for integrating AP courses into your high school curriculum and using them to your advantage in the college application process.

The Influence of AP Courses on College Admissions

Navigating the complex world of college scholarships can seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it doesn't have to be. This comprehensive guide is designed to help high school students understand the importance of scholarships in financing their education and how to successfully secure them. From understanding the financial implications to practical steps for application, this guide offers valuable insights to help demystify the scholarship process and set students on the path to a debt-free college experience.

A Comprehensive Guide to Scholarships for College Admissions

Choosing the right university is a pivotal decision for high school students, and one of the key factors to consider is whether to opt for an in-state or out-of-state institution. This article aims to demystify the differences between these two options, providing a comprehensive guide on the various factors to consider, such as tuition costs, residency requirements, and cultural experiences. We will also delve into the potential advantages and disadvantages of each choice, equipping students with the necessary knowledge to make an informed decision about their future.

Choosing Between In-State and Out-of-State Universities

Navigating the world of student loans can be daunting for college-bound high school students. This guide aims to demystify the process by explaining the different types of student loans, how to apply, and what to expect in terms of interest rates and repayment terms. We'll also delve into the pros and cons of student loans, giving you a comprehensive understanding of this common method of financing college education.

A Guide to Student Loans

Dual enrollment classes offer a unique opportunity for high school students to get a jumpstart on their college education. By enrolling in these courses, students can gain both high school and college credits, potentially saving time and money in the future. But do these classes really give students an edge in the competitive college admissions process? Read on to find out how dual enrollment can affect your college application.

Dual Enrollment Classes - A Boost to College Admissions?

Unlock the secrets to higher SAT and ACT scores with our comprehensive guide designed specifically for high school students. Learn about the importance of these standardized tests, how they impact college admissions, and their role in securing scholarships and other programs. Discover practical strategies and tips to boost your scores and increase your chances of admission to your dream college.

Maximizing SAT and ACT Scores - A Guide to Higher Test Scores

In the face of mounting competition for college admissions, high school students are increasingly considering a gap year to enhance their prospects. This article delves into the concept, benefits, and drawbacks of a gap year, providing insights into how it can be effectively utilized for maximum advantage. It also offers guidance on planning a productive gap year and features success stories of students who have leveraged this opportunity to their benefit. If you're contemplating how to stand out in your college applications, this exploration of the gap year could be your guide.

Boosting College Admissions Prospects with a Gap Year

Embarking on a study abroad program during high school can be a life-changing experience that offers cultural immersion and broadened horizons. However, it's not a decision to be taken lightly. This article delves into the advantages and disadvantages of these programs, particularly in relation to college admissions. From academic benefits to potential drawbacks, we provide a comprehensive overview to help you make an informed decision about your educational journey.

Study Abroad Programs - Pros and Cons

Understanding college financial aid is a critical step in the journey of every high school student. As tuition costs continue to rise, understanding and effectively leveraging financial aid packages can significantly impact a student's academic trajectory. This article aims to equip students with the knowledge to decode these packages, avoid common pitfalls, and maximize their financial aid opportunities, setting them up for success in their higher education pursuits.

Understanding College Financial Aid Packages

Achieving a balance between academics and extracurricular activities is a critical factor in college admissions, but it can be a challenging task for high school students. This guide provides insight into the importance of maintaining this balance, offering strategies for effective time management, tips on academic excellence, and maximizing the benefits of extracurricular activities. With real-life examples, this article will equip students with the necessary tools to successfully navigate the path to college admissions.

Balancing Academics and Extracurriculars for College Admissions

Navigating the college admissions process can be daunting, but understanding every aspect, such as the alumni interview, can significantly boost your chances of acceptance. This article sheds light on the importance of alumni interviews, offering high school applicants valuable insights and practical tips for preparation, execution, and post-interview follow-up. Discover how to make a lasting impression and demonstrate your potential fit within your desired institution's community.

Insights on Alumni Interviews for College Applicants

Are you a prospective college student grappling with the crucial decision of choosing a major? We delve into the significance of selecting the right major and provides valuable insights to help you align your interests, skills, and goals with the perfect area of study. Don't miss out on this essential guide to making an informed decision for your academic and professional future.

Choosing a College Major - Key Considerations for Prospective Students

Are you a high school student feeling overwhelmed by the college admissions process? We offer valuable insights and tips to help you ace your interviews. Learn about the purpose of these interviews and the various types you may encounter, so you can confidently navigate this crucial step towards your dream college.

High School Students' Guide to Preparing for College Admissions Interviews

Are you a prospective college student trying to decide between a large university or a small college? In our latest article, we delve into the key differences between these two options, providing valuable insights to help you make the best choice for your educational needs. Don't miss this essential guide to finding the perfect fit for your college experience!

Large University vs. Small College - A Prospective College Student's Guide

Are you a high school senior looking to make the most of your pre-college summer? Discover various options and strategies to ensure a productive, enlightening, and fun summer in our latest article. Learn why this crucial time matters and how it can give you a competitive edge in the college admissions process while also fostering personal growth and development.

Making the Most of Your Pre-College Summer - A Guide for High School Seniors

Discover the growing impact of social media on college admissions. Learn how admissions officers are increasingly considering applicants' online presence and find out what high school students can do to create a positive digital footprint. Don't miss the chance to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of college admissions!

The Role of Social Media in College Admissions - What High School Students Should Know

Discover essential tips for high school students navigating the Common Application in our latest article! Applying to college can be overwhelming, but with over 800 colleges and universities accepting the Common Application, we're here to help make the process more manageable. Learn how to effectively complete the application and take a step closer to your future academic goals.

Tips for High School Students Navigating the Common Application

Discover the significance of community service in college admissions in our latest article. Learn how volunteering and giving back to the community can demonstrate personal growth and development, making you a more attractive candidate to your dream college or university. Don't miss out on this essential aspect of the college application process!

Why Community Service Matters in College Admissions

Learn the importance of personalizing your essays and how to showcase your unique qualities to admissions officers. Don't miss out on valuable insights to help you create a memorable and impactful essay that could make all the difference in your college application process.

Writing Standout College Essays - How High School Students Can Personalize Their Stories

The UT school system is one of the largest in the United States. In this article, we explore how transfers, re-admits, and transient students can leverage ApplyTexas to maximize their admissions chances.

How to Get into UT as a Transfer or Transient Student

It's often said that first impressions are last impressions, and in the world of college essays, that statement holds just as true. In this article, we talk about how you can craft the perfect hook for your college application essay.

How to Write a College Essay Hook

When it comes to college applications, admissions officers can be your best friend or your worst enemy. In this article, we'll talk about how you can form a strong bond with your admissions officer!

Questions You Should Ask Admissions Officers to Boost Your Chances

As tens of thousands of high school seniors apply to the Ivy League schools every year, it's no secret that expectations are high. With acceptance rates as low as 4.6% for some of these institutions, crafting the perfect essay is a critical piece of the college application puzzle. To help you stand out and increase your chances of acceptance, we've gathered insights from experts in college admissions and essay writing. From cracking the code of what Ivy League admissions officers look for in essays to crafting your own unique essay, read on for tips and tricks on how to create an essay that wows admission committees.

How to Write a Strong Essay for Ivy League Schools

Each year, thousands of students receive priority applications, but aren't sure what exactly they are. In this article, we'll discuss what priority applications are and whether they're worth exploring.

What are Priority Applications and Should You Use One?

Discover 11 top remote internships for high schoolers in 2023 with our comprehensive guide designed for ambitious students. Learn about the importance of remote internships, how they help you gain valuable work experience, and develop professional skills, all while offering flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Don't miss out on these fantastic opportunities to build a strong resume and kickstart your career.

11 Remote Internships for High Schoolers in 2023 | A Guide for Ambitious Students

Discover the often overlooked significance of middle school grades in college admissions in our latest article. We delve into the long-term impact of middle school performance on a student's academic journey and provide valuable tips for success. Learn how to set the foundation for a bright future by understanding the role of middle school grades in the college admissions process.

The Importance of Middle School Grades in College Admissions

Discover the dangers of plagiarizing your college application essay in our latest article. We delve into the importance of authenticity in this crucial part of the admissions process and explore the consequences of plagiarism. Learn how to avoid this pitfall and create a compelling, genuine essay that showcases your unique passions and goals.

The Perils of Plagiarizing Your College Application Essay

Harvard University is the world’s most selective school. In this article, we discuss their admissions requirements and how you can meet them!

What Are the Admission Requirements for Harvard University?

Discover how to write a standout college application essay that focuses on your personal growth and values while celebrating your immigrant parents' journey. Explore strategies to infuse your own unique perspective into the essay and learn from examples of successful essays at AdmitYogi.

How to Write a Standout College Essay about Immigrant Parents

Dive into the dynamic world of Columbia University's extracurricular activities, where academia meets passion and individual growth is fostered beyond the classroom. This comprehensive guide uncovers the top extracurriculars at Columbia, featuring a myriad of clubs, organizations, and initiatives. Whether it's honing your leadership skills, engaging in community service, indulging in creative endeavors, or nurturing entrepreneurial ideas, there's a platform for everyone.

Discover Extracurricular Activites at Columbia University

Discover the profound implications of ChatGPT on college admissions essays. Delve into the concerns raised by educational institutions, explore the limitations of AI-generated content, and learn about alternative resources and strategies that empower applicants to craft compelling essays while emphasizing personal reflection and the invaluable guidance of teachers.

Can You Use ChatGPT for College Admissions Essays?

Discover how to craft compelling essays for Dartmouth College's application with expert guidance and examples. Explore insider tips, unique perspectives, and successful essay samples from Dartmouth and other top universities, empowering you to make your application shine.

How to Write Dartmouth's Essays (with Dartmouth Essay Examples)

Crafting a well-curated college list is a crucial step in the application process. Learn how to effectively refine your college list by considering factors such as academic fit, learning environment, campus resources, and career opportunities, ultimately finding the best fit for your unique goals and aspirations.

How to Create a College List

Navigating the college application process need not be daunting, especially when it comes to crafting a memorable essay from an 'ordinary' life experience. This post illuminates how to transform an everyday experience into a compelling narrative, while also providing practical tools and resources to boost your overall chances of admission.

How to Stand Out for College Admissions if You're an 'Ordinary' Applicant

Princeton University is one of the most difficult universities in the world to get into. In this article, we provide tips (with real-world essay examples) for nailing Princeton University's essay prompts!

How to Approach Princeton's Essays (with Real Princeton Essay Examples from 2023)

Securing a scholarship may seem like a daunting task due to stiff competition and high expectations. However, with a strategic approach and self-belief, it is far from impossible. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to applying for scholarships, making the process less intimidating and more manageable.

5 Best Strategies for Finding Scholarships

Embrace your summer break as an opportunity to jumpstart your college application journey and gain an edge over the competition. This insightful article offers valuable tips and strategies to help rising seniors effectively navigate the college application process, making the most of their summer months and inching closer to their dream schools.

Maximize your Summer Before Senior Year for College Applications

Discover the exciting world of earth systems and sustainability through engaging extracurricular activities designed for high school students. This blog post unveils five enriching activities to spark your curiosity and nurture your passion for a sustainable future, paving the way for personal and professional growth.

Getting Involved in Earth Systems/Sustainability Extracurricular Activities

Harvard is among the world's most storied institutions, and writing their essays can be a challenging task! In this article, we discuss Harvard's essay prompts and how to approach them, providing real examples along the way!

How to Write Harvard's Essays (with Real 2023 Harvard Essay Examples)

Writing Stanford's eight mandatory essays can be a difficult task! In this article, we explore Stanford's essay prompts, and give detailed strategies (with real examples) on how to approach them.

How to Write Stanford's Essays (with Real 2023 Essay Examples)

When it comes to college applications, Harvard is one of the most prestigious schools in the country. If you're hoping to get into this Ivy League institution, you'll want to complete its optional supplemental essay prompt, which asks: Your intellectual life may extend beyond the academic requirements of your particular school. Please use the space below to list additional intellectual activities that you have not mentioned or detailed elsewhere in your application. These could include, but are not limited to, supervised or self-directed projects not done as school work, training experiences, online courses not run by your school, or summer academic or research programs not described elsewhere. In this article, we will provide some tips on how to approach this prompt and write an essay that will impress the Harvard admissions office.

How to Write Harvard's Optional Essay

Preparing for college can be an overwhelming experience, but with the right guidance and tools, it can also be a fulfilling one. College presents many opportunities for growth and learning, but it all starts with the application process. Here are some essential steps to help you prepare for college applications.

How to Prepare for College Applications

Choosing a college major is a big decision that can have a significant impact on your future career prospects and earning potential. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to begin. In this article, we’ll provide some guidance to help you make an informed decision about your college major.

Choosing a College Major - What Every College Applicant Needs to Know

Writing college applications can be a time-consuming and laborious process. It’s thus important to ensure you understand how long this process takes, so you can give yourself adequate time to write your essays and fill out your Common Application. In this article, we’ll discuss how long college applications (and receiving a decision) takes!

How Long do College Applications Take?

In this article, UC admissions expert Wei-Li Sun discusses some tips to help engineering students boost their admissions chances at UC schools.

How to be a Competitive Engineering Freshman Applicant for the University of California

Nestled in the heart of California's Bay Area, Stanford University is an exceptional American university. Here are 10 interesting facts you may not have known about the school!

10 Fun and Interesting Facts About Stanford University

Finding summer programs still open to applications in the spring and summer can be difficult. In this article, we'll discuss some summer programs that are still open for high schoolers!

Summer Programs for High Schoolers That Are Still Open

The Science National Honor Society, better known as SNHS, is an organization dedicated towards assisting high schoolers who excel academically in the natural sciences. Its goal is to broaden the public’s engagement with and appreciation for science. In this article, we’ll discuss what SNHS is, whether it’s worth it, how to apply, the significance of SNHS chords, and more!

Science National Honor Society - Everything You Should Know

Finding a strong extracurricular is of vital importance for college applications! In this article, we'll discuss some great extracurriculars you can explore from home!

100 Impressive and Unique Extracurricular Activities You Can Do at Home

Strong extracurriculars can set you apart for college applications. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best math programs and extracurriculars for high school!

Math Programs for High School

With decisions from the Class of 2027 rolling in, several schools have given us a look into their early admissions numbers! In this article, we'll look at some of the early decision and early action acceptance rates of elite colleges in the US, including EA and ED results for the Ivy League!

Early Decision and Early Action Acceptance Rates for the Class of 2027

The admissions process for physical science programs in college is challenging, making it hard to distinguish oneself. Starting college preparation early can help you showcase your interest in physics, astronomy, chemistry, or earth sciences. While good grades and test scores are essential, to stand out, you need to demonstrate personal attributes that align with the major and highlight your fit for a career in the physical sciences.

Extracurricular Activities for High School Students Interested in Physical Sciences

Colleges seek applicants who demonstrate passion and dedication in a specific area of interest, as these individuals are more likely to become leaders in their field. To stand out in the application process, it's crucial to showcase depth in one or two areas of interest through both coursework and extracurricular activities. Creating a spike that tells a comprehensive story about who you are as a student and individual is essential.

What is a College Application “Spike”?

Unlock the Secrets of Strong College Recommendations: A Guide for High School Students! Discover how to stand out from the crowd and impress admissions committees with insightful letters that showcase your unique strengths and accomplishments. Whether you're a student or a parent, this article will provide you with the insights and tools you need to succeed in the college application process.

How to ask for a stellar letter of recommendation

Choosing the right college is a critical decision for pre-med students, as it sets the foundation for their medical education and career. The right college not only prepares students for medical school but also helps them to develop the necessary skills, experiences, and networks to become successful physicians.

Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Pre Med

Discover the top colleges for creative writing and launch your writing career with confidence. Our guide covers program reputation, faculty quality, curriculum, and alumni networks to help you choose the best fit for your future.

Best Colleges for Creative Writing

Applying to college as an international student in the United States can be difficult, as there are many requirements to follow. In this article, we'll discuss how to apply for college in the United States as an international student, the advantages of attending a US college, student timelines to keep in mind, how to research colleges and universities, which major or degree to pursue, required standardized and English language tests, and more.

International Student Guide: How to Apply to College in the United States

With business programs in the United States becoming more popular, colleges are increasingly offering valuable business opportunities to undergraduates. In this article, we'll take a look at the top ten best undergraduate business programs in the United States, and we'll give some honorable mentions!

The Best Undergraduate Business Programs

College interviews can be a great way to impress universities and boost your admissions chances. Here are some of the most common questions to prepare for!

25 Common College Interview Questions for Students

Struggling to find extracurricular activities to do? Check out these 5 activities and stand out to colleges!

5 Underrated Extracurriculars that Look Great for College Applications

Make yourself a compelling social sciences applicant by taking part in these activities!

Interested in the social sciences? Check out these extracurricular activities!

Are you interested in engineering? Check out these extracurricular activities and stand out to colleges!

Extracurricular Activities for High School Students Interested in Engineering

If your high school grades were poor and you had a low GPA, getting into the college of your dreams could be difficult. But it doesn't mean you can't pursue your collegiate desires! It simply means you'll have to approach college applications differently. Let's look at how to get into college with poor high school grades.

5 Steps to Get into College with a Bad GPA

The Stanford roommate essay is a key component of your application to the university, and in this article, we'll show you what it is and give you tips for making yours stand out.

Tips for Writing Your Stanford Roommate Essay

For years, your children were repeatedly asked, what do you want to be when you grow up? Often times, this response changes over time, and students change what they want to be. Here's what students would change about their initial pick!

Discover the College Majors That Students Wish They Had (or Hadn't) Chosen

In 1935, future President John F. Kennedy was asked to write an essay about why he wanted to attend Harvard University. The results were…interesting. Keep reading to see what JFK’s essay looked like and what lessons we can draw from it!

Analyzing JFK's Successful Harvard Essay

If you're applying to college, you may have heard about (or even received) a likely letter. But what exactly is a likely letter? In this article, we'll discuss what these advantageous letters are and why colleges send them.

What does a likely letter mean for college admissions?

Coming up with college application essay topics is difficult for most students who are going through the already stressful college application process. To avoid receiving a handful of rejections come April, do not write about any of the following topics.

Five College Essay Topics to Avoid

Everyone is telling you that you need to start applying to scholarships and winning them. But how? Where should you even begin? Keep reading to learn more about the different kinds of scholarships, when to apply, and how to find them!