Illinois Institute of Technology application tips?

I'm considering applying to Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago and would love some tips on how to strengthen my application. What are admissions looking for, and are there specific programs or extracurriculars that can help me stand out?

The Illinois Institute of Technology, as a technical-focused institution, values students who demonstrate a solid foundation in STEM fields and a strong sense of curiosity for innovation and discovery. Here are a few tips to help enhance your application:

1. Course Rigor and GPA: IIT would like to see that you've tackled a challenging curriculum in high school, especially in math and science courses. A strong GPA also showcases your academic ability. If your high school offers AP courses, be sure to take full advantage of these, especially in areas that align with your intended major.

2. Testing: While IIT is test-optional, if you have strong SAT or ACT scores, it might enhance your application to include these, especially for a tech-centric school like IIT that highly values academic strength in areas like mathematics.

3. Extracurricular Activities: IIT looks for students with extracurriculars that emphasize their passion for the technical fields. Participating in programs and clubs geared towards STEM, such as Robotics Club, Math Olympiad, or coding competitions will highlight your passion and dedication to your field of interest. If you've had experiences like internships or research in a relevant field, make sure to highlight the value they added to your preparation for your proposed course of study at IIT.

4. Essay: Use your personal essay to highlight your interest and experiences in STEM. Tell a story that reflects your intellectual curiosity, commitment to your chosen field, and understanding of IIT's distinct academic culture.

5. Recommendation Letters: Ask for recommendation letters from teachers who know you well and can speak to your strength in STEM subjects.

6. Demonstrated Interest: Although not a major factor for IIT, showing genuine interest in the school can subtly influence your admission decision. You can demonstrate this through campus visits, attending IIT’s online events, and articulating your knowledge about the school and how you could contribute to it in your essay.

Remember, each application is evaluated individually, and these are just suggestions to guide your application process. Good luck!