Hey, I've set my mind on Denison for college and I'm prepping my application. Considering it's a pretty selective college, any advice or recommendations on how to boost my chances of acceptance? Which aspects of the application did you focus on most to secure your place? Thanks!
Definitely, there's a mix of strategies you could employ to increase your likelihood of acceptance at Denison University. Here are some pointers:
1. Academic Strength: Denison values students who pursue a rigorous high school curriculum. Ensure to have a respectable GPA and make sure that you’re taking challenging classes like APs. Remember, the courses you take and the grades you get are what matter most. Although it is test-optional, reporting strong SAT or ACT scores could be a boost if available.
2. Extracurricular Activities: Show active engagement in a few select activities (preferably 2-3) related to your intended major or future career, or simply something you're passionate about. These can be Tier 1 to Tier 3 activities. Create a 'spike', or a high-involvement focus, instead of being a “well-rounded” applicant. This could be an area where you've achieved significant accomplishments or shown exceptional leadership.
3. Essays: For Denison, your essays are a place to shine. The application includes a supplemental essay question: "Why are you interested in Denison?" Make your response specific and personal, demonstrating a deep understanding of and connection to the school. Furthermore, avoid cliché topics for your personal statement in the Common App.
4. Recommendation Letters: Denison requires a letter of recommendation from both a counselor and a teacher. Choose recommenders who know you well, can accurately depict your character and abilities, and illuminate anecdotes that best bring out your qualities.
5. Interview: Although optional, an interview can help you make a positive impression and showcase your interest in the school.
6. Demonstrated Interest: Denison is one of the colleges that do consider demonstrated interest as part of their admission process. Attending online admissions events or making an official campus visit, if possible, could benefit your application.
Lastly, consider applying through Early Decision, if Denison is indeed your top choice. This can increase your chances, but remember that it is binding.
Good luck with your application process! I hope this helps.
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