The Art of the Application David Tobias, USF Todd Hicks, SCU

Trends in Admission A changing landscape What we are seeing …

What do you include?

The application as a portfolio: Essay Activities Transcript Academic Evaluation Writing supplements Additional information Required explanations Secondary School Report Demographic information Letters of Recommendation Writing samples and arts supplements Demonstrated Interest: visits, interviews, summer camps INTL: Financial resources, English proficiency, transcript evaluation

Early Action/Early Decision Have you visited/attended a reception? When can you submit a thorough application? Will test scores after deadline be considered? ED is a powerful statement: (often a different academic profile) CSS Profile/other forms used for financial aid

Many students have similar academic profiles. How do we decide? GPA, rigor, rank: Transcript, test scores, writing, school profile, dual enrollment

Demographics Major First Gen Legacy Geographic Need Aware Multi-ethnic Under-represented (non-specified)

There should be nothing “common” about a submitted Common App

Create a mosaic

Develop an image for the reader

Use structure to highlight experiences Take us into - and beyond - the numbers Who is best able to speak to the applicant’s strengths and provide confidence ( student, employer, counselor, teacher, alumni, pastor, advisor) Essay or Additional information? How much is too much?

Be Concise Don’t bury important information Readers are reviewing many applications Provide context to GPA and academic rigor. If a learning disability has impacted test scores, ideally the reader learns that before reading a teacher evaluation. Give confidence that a student can advocate and overcome challenges.

Required explanations

Counselor Letter Set the stage: offer insights into the student’s background and experience First gen, upward trend, challenges faced in and out of school. Calibrate as a staff : what constitutes most difficult? Weighted vs. un-weighted GPA and ranking Quotes that can be used to differentiate applicant

Teacher Evaluation Specific examples of growth, classroom participation, ability to ask for support, and the ability to support others Quotes that we can take into committee to advocate – offer contract and comparisons. What sets this student apart? Use of form letters: if we read by school we will see the same teachers over and over

The essay: an opportunity to shine! Common App Essay prompts: Option #1: Some students have a background or story that is so central to their identity that they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story. Option #2: Recount an incident or time when you experienced failure. How did it affect you, and what lessons did you learn? Option #3: Reflect on a time when you challenged a belief or idea. What prompted you to act? Would you make the same decision again? Option #4: Describe a place or environment where you are perfectly content. What do you do or experience there, and why is it meaningful to you? Option #5: Discuss an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, that marked your transition from childhood to adulthood within your culture, community, or family.

Essay dos and don’ts Be authentic! Respond to the topic. Start strong and end strong. Consider what themes and/or adjectives will the evaluator use to describe the applicant after reading the essay? Challenging Topics: – Sports, community service, horses

Arts supplements Giving context to time listed for activities: YouTube videos, online portfolios Auditions Demonstrated Interest Scholarship opportunities – (different timelines)

Listing Activities Be thorough and accurate: – Community service – Family responsibilities – Clubs and organizations – Cultural and faith based activities – Leadership positions Give us a sense of how you invest your time What matters to you, where do your passions lie? Will we see a connection to the university mission/community? Provide additional insights in writing supplements or additional information. Complete the activities section, even if uploading a resume!

Examples

Using Additional Information

Not uncommon this year to see only one activity listed with little detail:

Resume: embellished?

Continued…

Resume: page 3