I'm curious about what Occidental College looks for in applicants. Do they emphasize certain extracurriculars or particular attributes? Is it super competitive to get into? Any tips on standing out would be much appreciated!
Occidental College fosters a diverse and inclusive environment, and the college particularly admires applicants who demonstrate a deep commitment to community service and global citizenship. While there's no prescribed set of extracurriculars that Occidental prioritizes, evidence of consistent involvement and leadership in a few activities often stands out.
Regarding competitiveness, admission to Occidental is selective, with acceptance rates generally ranging between 30-40%. This rate can fluctuate from year to year depending on the applicant pool.
Academically, the college values students who challenge themselves with a rigorous curriculum in high school. Your course selections should signal your readiness to handle the academic rigor of college-level work. Strong grades in advanced courses suggest this preparedness.
As for test scores, Occidental is test-optional. So, while SAT or ACT scores can be submitted, they aren't required. This allows the college to review applications holistically; they consider many different aspects of an applicant including academic performance, personal essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular involvement.
Regarding essays, Occidental tends to seek thoughtful and introspective responses. An essay that articulates your intellectual curiosity, personal growth, or commitment to service—and ideally, how these elements might contribute to the Occidental community—can make your application more compelling.
To stand out, demonstrate how your experiences and interests align with Occidental's commitment to producing well-rounded, socially responsible citizens. If you've participated in extracurriculars or initiatives that align with this ethos, make sure to highlight them.
Lastly, don't overlook the importance of demonstrating interest. Although Occidental doesn't specifically state that it considers demonstrated interest, getting in touch with the admissions office, attending college fairs, or participating in virtual events can keep you informed and could potentially show your commitment to the school.
Remember, everyone's admissions journey is unique. There is no one-size-fits-all strategy, so above all, stay true to yourself throughout the application process!
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