Applying to Harvard: What Are They Looking For?

What's up, everyone? I'm currently a junior and I've been dreaming about getting into Harvard. Could anyone shed some light on what kind of aspects or qualities they value in an applicant? Are there certain extracurriculars or experiences I should aim for?

Hey there! I understand that you aspire to be admitted to Harvard, and it's great that you're seeking advice early. Keep in mind that while there's no magic formula for getting into a prestigious university like Harvard, there are certain qualities and aspects that tend to stand out in successful applicants.

1. Academic Excellence: Harvard looks for students who have excelled academically, demonstrated by a strong GPA, rigorous coursework, and competitive standardized test scores. Ensure that you're taking challenging courses and keeping your grades up.

2. A "Spike": Rather than being well-rounded, Harvard and other top colleges prefer students who have a specialized area of interest and passion, known as a "spike." You'll want to excel in one or two key extracurriculars or subjects that you're truly passionate about and can demonstrate exceptional accomplishments.

3. Leadership: Showcasing leadership skills in your extracurriculars, whether through club officer positions, sports team captaincies or community projects, can make you stand out. Ivy League schools like Harvard appreciate students who can be catalysts within their communities.

4. Intellectual Curiosity: Harvard is interested in students who are excited to learn and display genuine intellectual curiosity outside the classroom. Intellectual vitality can be demonstrated through involvement in academic clubs, personal research projects, or passionate discussions on a particular subject.

5. Impact: Admissions committees are attracted to applicants who have made a significant impact in their communities or extracurricular activities. This might involve leading significant projects, creating positive change, or going above and beyond in your chosen field of interest.

6. Quality extracurriculars: Many successful applicants have 8-10 extracurriculars in total, focusing on a few that they're heavily involved in. Aim for Tier 1 or Tier 2 extracurriculars, which involve national or state-level achievements and leadership positions.

7. Compelling essays: It's essential to write essays that highlight your unique experiences, perspective, and personality. Be sure to avoid cliché topics and instead share stories that truly set you apart as an individual, enabling admission officers to envision how you'll contribute to the campus community.

Of course, there is an element of unpredictability in any college admissions process. Keep in mind that Harvard is just one of many excellent universities, and it's wise to focus on finding a school that aligns with your personal and academic needs. Best of luck!