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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]What are some ways for a stem kid to separate themselves from the thousands of other high schoolers who do research, aime, “internships”, isef, etc? [/quote]

Twenty years ago the answer was grades. Then it became that + research. Then it became that (the new that, that is) + internship. Then it became that + birding. Then it became that+ non profit. As the world champion of punning example in the thread demonstrates, this is a never ending saga.

In the hunt for the latest shiny credential to add on, parents forget that AOs also seek to build a collaborative community. So amongst two equally qualified kids, the one that has demonstrated skills like working with others on a shared goal, helping others, ability to listen, ability to handle conflict/diversity of views, is the one you would want on your campus.

Trying to differentiate on credentials amongst STEM kids is difficult. Differentiating on behavioral skills is less frequently done, but could provide this edge.[/quote]

The key is to be like no one else in the application pool - especially from your own high school. You must stand out. What is different about you?

I saw the application of an Asian female TO STEM candidate who’s at Yale this fall:

In addition to national level accolades in violin, she was a recognized artist who had other unique hobbies, including: 
collecting ancient coins (turned into an appraisal business with blog/youtube); crocheting (volunteer hours with an organization); and 
taught origami classes to kids and participated in origami folding competitions (national awards). 
There was also a sport.
An unusual candidate. All around.[/quote]

Unusual? this sound completely contrived and extremely boring.[/quote]

People get annoyed when we say the kids at top 20s are all weird and nerdy on the tours, but this is a perfect example of this. The girl collects and appraises ancient coins, competes in origami folding competitions and crochets. Why do they want kids like this? Screams introvert. [/quote]

This doesn’t scream introvert to me. It screams “what can I do to set myself apart for AOs”[/quote]

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