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Home | Reference & Education | College And University Ninety-five percent of the incoming freshmen at Harvard last fall finished in the top ten percent of their high school classes. And, a fairly high percentage came from highly competitive high schools in which graduating at the top of the class is a noteworthy accomplishment. They were no slouches on the SAT or ACT either, with the middle 50% of the incoming Harvard class scoring in the top 1% of national test takers. As you can see, to win a seat at an Ivy, you must successfully compete with some top students. And, you must compete with lots of them...nearly 23,000 at Harvard this year. Of that number, not even ten percent were admitted. Is Harvard tougher to get a "yes" from than the other Ivy League schools? Perhaps, but not much. So, does anybody really have a decent chance to find himself or herself on an Ivy League campus? Sure, but their numbers are limited. If you hope to attend an Ivy, know two things. First, no matter how big a star you are in high school, there are no guarantees. Even valedictorians and students with perfect ACT or SAT scores are sometimes denied admission. The second reality is that if you are anywhere near the statistical profile of a student with a chance of admission to an Ivy, you have no reason to feel sorry for yourself. You may not get into an Ivy, but you should have great college choices. What can you do to improve your chances at the Ivies? You must demonstrate your interest in learning and your intellectual ability with not just good grades, but good grades in the most difficult courses available to you. If the possibilities at your high school are limited, consider enrolling in a few courses at a local college. Take both the ACT and SAT early. Analyze the results and determine where you need to improve. Then, get to work. Do it in a test prep course, by yourself (with professionally prepared materials) or with a tutor...preferably one with test prep experience. Make yourself what used to be called a "well rounded" person; it's good for you and good for your candidacy. Join clubs or organizations in which you have genuine interest. I repeat, genuine interest. Accept positions of leadership if they are available. A good or bad essay can be an important "tip" factor for you. And, it's your best opportunity to tell the admissions committee who you are. Don't waste it. Consider early decision or a similar program if it is available to you. Such options can improve your chances, but they may not make sense for everyone. You will be asked for two or three references. Choose them carefully...very carefully. A single luke warm or negative comment on a recommendation may be damaging. Anything you can do to help others and/or accelerate your personal growth can only help you as a person, and make you at least a marginally more attractive applicant. The Ivies, and other highly selective colleges, are after bright, motivated, high-achievers. In addition, they seek diversity and students whose backround, accomplishment, and talents indicate their potential to be significant contributors to the campus community. Article Source: http://www.articlewheel.com
Daniel Z. Kane has had a long career in education. His many educational websites deal with subjects such as online college degrees , online colleges , financial aid, and scholarships.
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