What is NYU particularly looking for?

Hello, Straights-A's but nervous junior here. I'm looking to apply to NYU and was hoping to get some ideas on what exactly stands out on applications. What kind of students do you think NYU is particularly looking for?

NYU seeks culturally sensitive and globally-minded students because of its heavy focus on international and interdisciplinary studies. They appreciate students who are ambitious, creative, and independent thinkers, particularly valuing those who show a clear interest in utilizing their NYC location for internships, cultural experiences, and more.

Quality involvement in extracurricular activities is also crucial. That doesn't merely mean being involved in numerous activities, but making exceptional contributions in a few areas that mean a lot to you and show your strengths, passions, and the kind of community member you'd be. This can be anywhere from Tier 1 to Tier 3 activities on the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars classification.

Your essay can also strongly impact your admission chances. Avoid cliche topics. Instead, weave in unique personal experiences or perspectives that highlight your strengths, your ability to contribute to NYU's diverse student body, and your potential fit within NYU's academic culture.

In addition, while NYU is test-optional for the 2024-2025 application cycle if you do choose to submit test scores, a strong SAT or ACT score can boost your application, but your GPA is equally important. Make sure you're taking rigorous courses at your high school and maintaining a high GPA.

Finally, remember to portray your interests and potential major(s) genuinely across your application. NYU offers varied and specialized programs, so demonstrating clear alignment with your chosen major could be beneficial.

Overall, reflect on what makes you a unique applicant, and be sure to portray that genuinely in your application. Good Luck!