Strategy for applying to all 8 Ivies?

Hey everyone! I've decided to apply to all eight Ivy League schools, however, I'm overwhelmed about how to manage my time and energy. Does anyone have any advice or tips on how to approach this plan while still maintaining sanity?

Hello! Applying to all eight Ivy League schools is an ambitious plan, but it can be manageable if you follow some key strategies.

1. Start early: Give yourself plenty of time to work on each application, so begin working on your essays and other application components during the summer before your senior year.

2. Research and prioritize: Research each school thoroughly to understand their unique offerings, values, and campus culture. This will not only help in tailoring your supplementary essays but will also help you prioritize the applications based on your preferences.

3. Create a master plan: Make a detailed list or spreadsheet of all the deadlines, essay topics, and application requirements for each school. Use this to stay organized and prevent last-minute rush.

4. Common Application: Take advantage of the Common Application to save time filling out common sections like your personal information. Focus on creating a strong and well-polished main essay, which you can use for all the schools.

5. Supplemental essays: For each school, there will generally be additional essays and short-answer questions. Try to find overlapping themes or topics that could be adjusted for multiple applications. Avoid copy-pasting the contents, and instead, tailor each essay to the specific school.

6. Demonstrated interest: For Ivy League schools, it matters less, but it's still a good idea to interact with each school in some capacity to show your genuine interest. Attend virtual events, webinars, or reach out to alumni for an informational interview.

7. Break tasks into smaller chunks: Divide your work into smaller tasks and set achievable goals for each day or week. This will help you stay motivated and consistent in your progress.

8. Balance with schoolwork: Stay on top of your senior year coursework and extracurriculars. Remember that your grades and activities are still crucial components of your application.

9. Seek support: Share your plan with your teachers, counselors, and family members, as they can provide valuable feedback and encouragement throughout the process.

10. Schedule time for self-care: To maintain your sanity and prevent burnout, allocate time for yourself. Engage in activities you enjoy and maintain a healthy lifestyle to keep stress at bay.

Remember, while applying to all eight Ivies may increase your chances of getting into one of them, college admissions can be unpredictable. Make sure to also apply to a few target and safety schools that align with your interests and needs. Good luck with your applications!