Remote High Schools: How's the Experience like?

Hey guys, I'm curious, what's it like studying at the most remote high school in America? If you're a student from one such school, could you share your experience? How does that impact college admissions, if at all?

Hi there, great question! Studying in a remote high school can certainly bring about unique challenges and advantages, and the impact on college admissions is also quite nuanced.

Remote high schools may sometimes offer fewer extracurriculars and Advanced Placement (AP) courses due to limited resources, both of which are relevant for college applications. A lack of AP courses might seem like a disadvantage, but keep in mind that admissions officers take your high school context into consideration. They understand if your school didn't offer many AP courses. What matters is how much you've excelled within the opportunities available to you.

In terms of extracurricular activities, it's important to remember that quality is more important than quantity. You don't need a long list of activities; you just need a few that you're genuinely passionate about and invested in. Because remote high schools might not have as many traditional clubs, students often get creative and start their own initiatives. This shows leadership and can provide you with a unique "spike" or area of deep interest and accomplishment, which colleges value.

As for the remote setting, it might make certain academic resources less accessible; however, it also offers unique experiences that can be leveraged in college applications. For example, living in a remote area may offer opportunities for hands-on environmental science projects, engaging in local community service, or immersing yourself in a unique cultural heritage. These experiences can provide distinctive and interesting fodder for essays or interviews.

While students from remote high schools might face some logistic challenges (like less access to college preparatory resources, or difficulties in attending college tours), many colleges and resources like CollegeVine provide online tools and virtual events to assist students irrespective of their geographical location. This can level the playing field considerably, allowing you to research colleges, refine your application, request interviews, and even attend virtual tours or information sessions.

In sum, while there may be challenges associated with attending a remote high school, there exist many strategies to overcome these and turn potential disadvantages into unique points of interest. Remember, colleges value diversity and unique stories, so your background may provide a fresh perspective they’re looking for.