Dear Babs,
Ever since I was 11, I have wanted to go to Columbia University. I live about two-hours outside New York City, and to me, Columbia is the epitome of my dream school. I hope to someday be a journalist, and I know that they have one of the best programs in the country. I am in the top 10 of my class (although I don’t know my exact class rank yet), and I have good SAT scores (2150). What can I do to ensure my acceptance to this Ivy League?
-Crushing on Columbia
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Dear Crushing,
The first thing to know about Ivy League admissions is that there is no way to “ensure” your acceptance. On average, Ivy League universities accept 15% of applicants. Columbia University, in particular, accepted just fewer than 13% of all applications for the class beginning in fall 2009. The vast majority of these applicants were more than qualified-just like you.
You have excellent grades and SAT scores, but so does everybody else who wants to go to Columbia University. The best you can do is to use your essay and personal recommendations to make yourself stand out. Shy away from the typical “I learned leadership skills as a camp counselor/babysitter/animal shelter volunteer” and opt for a more personal approach. Think about what makes you more than just a brain. Is it your ambition? Your wit? Or your imagination? Think about your most defining character trait, and try and have it come though-no matter what the essay topic.
If Columbia is your end-all and be-all, then let them know it. Use one of your essays to talk about exactly why Columbia is your dream-school. Write about your love of journalism, what you plan on doing with your degree, and why Columbia will help you achieve these goals. But, as JFK once said (or something like it): Ask not what your college can do for you, but ask what you can do for your college. In other words, let them know why you’re an asset to their community. Let them know how you intend to contribute to the legacy of their school-by taking part in campus activities or by making a name for yourself after graduation. Statistically speaking, colleges give preference to students who apply early. Applying Early Decision means that you agree to attend if you are accepted. By agreeing to commit to Columbia if admitted, you are, quite literally putting your money where your mouth is.
Remember, there is no guarantee into an Ivy League. You’ve done your best academically. Now try and show them a side of yourself that goes beyond your SAT scores, and hope for the best.
Good Luck!
-Babs
