The first thing to note is that applications for American universities are far more involved. They don’t simply want to know your ATAR or IB score (so you really are more than just a number to these schools). They want to accept students who are not only intelligent, but also interesting and have leadership qualities. Of course, everyone is interesting and a leader in their own way. However, not everyone is able to prove this. This means that if you are hoping to attend universities in the States, you need to plan ahead.
Here are the components of an application to American universities that Australian universities do not typically require:
- Letters of Recommendation
Most undergraduate colleges want at least two letters of recommendation from your teachers, who can write of your stellar academic performance, potential, work ethic, etc. This means you should start cultivating relationships with your teachers now. If you really enjoy one of your classes, make that known to the teacher by performing very well and going above and beyond what is required of you. Show intellectual curiosity.
- Extra Curricular Activities
Say that two new students turn up to your tutoring class one day. One of them generally does nothing after or during school except studying. The other studies hard, but is also on the debating team as well as the soccer team. The admissions committee is generally going to look favourably on the second student, especially if both have similar academic records. Why? Because active involvement in extracurricular activities shows great time management skills, commitment to passions, and potential leadership qualities. So, if you’re not involved in anything at school yet, start small and join a sport, musical ensemble, or committee. If you’re already involved in something, try to take on some leadership positions.
- Personal Statement
Your personal statement is the essay that you will submit to schools to give them a chance to hear about your personality and strengths in your own voice. For example, you could give a story about growing up in a bilingual household or another experience that was a turning point in your life. Whatever your story is, it should give admissions committees a window into who you are as a person and why they should accept you.
You may be thinking, Never mind, these applications are way too involved! I’d rather just buckle down and try to get 99.95. You should still try to perform as well as you can academically. However, I don’t think I will ever regret putting in the extra effort to apply for American schools. My decision to study at a top liberal arts college was one of my best. If you have any more questions about the application process, feel free to reach out!
