Hey, folks! I'm putting together my application for WashU, but I'm feeling a bit lost. What should I emphasize or focus on to have the best shot at getting in? Any advice from current students or recent applicants would be amazing. Thank you in advance!
Hello! It's great that you're working on your WashU application. I can understand it may feel overwhelming, but I'm here to help with some specific advice to strengthen your application.
1. Academics: Ensure you're taking rigorous courses, especially in your area of interest. WashU values students who challenge themselves academically. If possible, take a course load that includes AP, IB, or honors classes in your field of interest to demonstrate your commitment and passion.
2. Test Scores (optional): While WashU has a test-optional policy, strong test scores (SAT, ACT, or subject tests) can make your application stand out. So, if you have competitive test scores, it's worth submitting them.
3. Extracurriculars: Highlight your extracurricular involvement, emphasizing leadership roles and any accomplishments. If you have a particular passion or skill (also known as a "spike"), make sure to showcase that. WashU, like many top colleges, prefers applicants with a highly developed specialty.
4. Essays: Be genuine and authentic in your essays. Use this opportunity to showcase your personality, values, and experiences that differentiate you from other applicants. Avoid cliché topics and focus on unique aspects of your life. Reflect on specific experiences that exhibit your character, drive, and passions. For in-depth advice on writing the WashU essays, check out this CollegeVine essay: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-washu-essays
5. Letters of Recommendation: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your character, curiosity, intellectual engagement, and work ethic. This can make a significant impact on your application, as admissions officers rely on these letters to understand your personality and potential beyond the metrics.
In summary, focus on showcasing your academic strengths, extracurricular involvement (mainly in your area of expertise), genuine and thoughtful essays, specific reasoning for your Why WashU essay, and strong letters of recommendation. Good luck with your application!
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