University of Washington application tips?

Does anyone have advice for applying to the University of Washington? What makes a strong application stand out to their admissions office? I'm thinking of applying for their computer science major.

Getting admitted to the University of Washington's computer science program is a competitive process, and they're looking for students who show promise in succeeding academically and professionally in computer science. Here are some pointers:

1. Academic Strength: The University of Washington looks at your academic performance as an indicator of your ability to handle the rigorous computer science curriculum. They'll focus on your grades, especially in math and science classes, to get a sense of your capacity to handle technical concepts.

2. Proficiency in Mathematics and Science: For the computer science program, it is vital to demonstrate your competence in math and science. These subjects often involve problem-solving skills that can be crucial to your computer science studies. If you've taken AP Calculus or other higher-level math classes and scored well, that would be beneficial.

3. Personal Statement: Beyond your academic prowess, UW wants to know more about your journey, so take advantage of their statement prompts to share your story. The personal statement should answer the two questions thoroughly, providing detailed examples when possible. One question will likely refer to your reasons for choosing your preferred major - in your case, computer science. Discuss specific experiences, projects, or courses that sparked your interest in computer science.

4. Extracurriculars: Your extracurriculars can demonstrate your passion for computer science beyond the classroom, such as coding competitions, software development projects, internships at tech companies, or computer programming clubs at your high school. Remember, quality matters more than quantity, so being highly involved in a few things is more impressive than lesser involvement in a variety of activities.

5. Letter of Recommendation: While they are optional, strong letters of recommendation can enhance your application. Ask your computer science teacher or someone else who can discuss your technical aptitude and passion for the field.

6. Course Rigor: Admissions officers at UW also consider the rigor of your high school curriculum to understand how you could handle the demanding course load at the university level. Therefore, taking the most challenging coursework available to you and performing well can contribute positively to your application.

7. Early Action: Although it doesn’t dramatically increase your chances, applying Early Action could provide a small boost to your chances of acceptance. It is non-binding and can demonstrate your interest in the university, which admissions committees appreciate.

Remember, every application is reviewed in its entirety, so admissions officers at the University of Washington look at everything you present to them when considering your application. Good luck with your application!