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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]I have two kids who had similar stats and circumstances. Both got into top 15 schools. Both received packages that made it affordable. My two cents as a parent: The GPA and SAT/ACT score is what gets you an initial look. For unhooked kids from the burbs that will be a very high threshold. 3.95 unweighted with APs and a difficult course load plus a 1590 totally meets that threshold. That app will be read

What set my kids apart, I believe, is that both were highly self-motivated and knew what they wanted to do. Their ECs reflected that. Very different interests but both had unique experiences, leadership positions, and national awards. All done on their own. Additionally, they were both athletes and had some good community service projects. I think it's important to somehow reflect that the applicant is a decent, well-rounded individual that plays well with others. Schools are looking for people that will be a plus for the community

Additionally, solid teacher recs. Those recs need to be effusive about how this is a really special student

Also, essays. Cannot stress that enough. Schools like Northwestern are looking at 50,000 applications. The vast majority are going to have absolutely stellar academics. The essay is the one place where a student can be an individual. It really matters. And don't even think about outsourcing or heavily editing the essay. The BS detector of admissions officers is off the charts. They've seen it all. It needs to be authentic. It's so important. You need to make the reader your champion when it gets to committee.

Finally, be strategic. MIT for instance - and I love their admissions process - does not favor early admissions over regular. So don't throw the ED card there. Similarly, Harvard and Stanford. ED makes no sense. It's where they fill their "preferred slots." Middle class white or asian kids from the burbs have no chance there. Go further down the list, find the right match for your child - make sure you visit - and apply early decision where it makes a difference. I've seen suburban kids get into Northwestern. But they were young journalists - editors of the school paper, clips from online or national publications. But that's very specific for Northwestern, which is known for its journalism program. Other schools will have different priorities. But know what they are

It's a lot of hoops for a teenager. And if they're not self-motivated, no one one should push them. Tons of really smart kids are going to the honors program at their state colleges or taking merit elsewhere. Think the value of pedigree degrees will flatline in the years ahead. Would tell all smart kids not to stress   [/quote]

When did your kids get in? This sounds like pre-2021, pre-Covid advice to me. [/quote]

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