Hello, I'm a junior and I'm starting to seriously think about college. Columbia University is my dream school and I started wondering, is there a high school that tends to send a lot of their students to Columbia? Maybe there's something I could learn from how they approach the college application process?
A specific list of high schools that send the most students to Columbia isn't publicly released by the University itself, so it would be challenging to assign a precise title. That said, it's often found that top-ranked high schools, particularly in New York and other surrounding states, send a considerable number of their students to prestigious colleges like Columbia. High schools such as Hunter College High School and Bronx High School of Science, both highly-regarded institutions in New York City, do tend to send a relatively high number of graduates to the Ivy League schools consistently.
You might be curious about what makes such schools successful in the admissions process. It's not just about rigorous academics, although that's a part of it. These schools often afford students access to robust advanced courses (like AP, IB, and Honors), provide comprehensive college counseling, and have a strong focus on extracurricular involvement. They nurture students' interests and foster an environment that encourages curiosity and exploration.
To increase your chances of admission to an Ivy League school like Columbia, aim to make the most of the opportunities available at your own school. Engage deeply with a select few extracurriculars, strive for strong academic performance (especially within challenging coursework), and find authentic ways to demonstrate your passion and dedication in your chosen areas of interest. Utilize your school's resources for college application guidance and follow best practices such as writing thoughtful and personal essays and obtaining strong letters of recommendation.
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