Character is one of those things that holistic admissions really attempts to assess. Probably sometimes they get it right and other times they get it wrong as kids and families and college counselors become savvy on how to “package“ character. But, having watched a kid go through the process recently, I expect that AOs are looming at how a number of things come together to paint an overall picture and information on character can be found in how the kid describes themself, How they are described in recommendation letters, and how these descriptors are supported by activities they dedicated a significant amount of time to in high school. There are certainly other demographic issues that could factor into this, for example the kid who will be first generation going to college and took eight AP classes probably had less support at home than the kid whose parents are lawyers and CEOs. That shows character.

The degree to which they take it into account depends on the college, I think. And I suspect they look at teacher/ counselor recommendations, activities and essays to determine character.

Back in the day, I remember at least one college used to ask applicants to submit a recommendation from a friend. I can't remember the college. Maybe it was U Chicago?

Talent could mean anything - Ability to paint, study hard, etc. Not limited to sports or non-academic pursuits.

Character - Strength of character (perseverance, etc.) vs good vs bad. Exhibited by grade progression, essays, teacher recos, etc.

Talent is something like being a recruited athlete since there are other measures of academic prowess listed like test scores and grades. Some schools weight it higher than others. My daughter is applying ED as an athlete and her coach has a 100% record of getting her target players through admissions based on talent if the pre read for other factors is already strong.

I think there is a lot to be said for teens who take on activities and persist. Persistence can be displayed through many types of efforts or activities, but generally it demonstrates an ability to stick with something, recognize challenges or barriers, push through, and move on. (I might say ‘grit’, but frankly I think that term has been over-used, especially within the independent school community.)

These kids might also demonstrate “talent”...then again, maybe not. They might just be good at keeping on keeping on. These kids should not be overlooked, and should be encouraged to find ways that they can shine, and accept that they do.

There are also many “talented” kids who shine brightly, but have little ability to persist. These kids should be validated, nurtured and encouraged to find the things that motivate them to persist.

“Character” is apparent in all of these children. I suspect these characteristics, along with the development and display of critical thinking skills, are the major things that resonate with admissions counselors. I hope that good admissions counselors see all of these kids for who they are, and look for potential.

-an independent school mom who has been giving this topic a lot of thought

In other words, my $.02 cents.