Written by Lauren, Guest Contributor & Academic Writing Coach

Step 1: Craft a Compelling Personal Narrative

College admissions can feel like a high-stakes game, but there's one rule every applicant should keep in mind: be authentic. When I was applying to college, I spent hours agonizing over what made me unique. The truth is, we often overlook our best stories because they feel too “ordinary.” But the admissions team is eager to get a glimpse of who you are beyond your grades and test scores. Colleges want students who will bring unique perspectives and stories to their campus communities.

Start by identifying experiences that genuinely reflect your passions and growth. If you spent summers volunteering at an animal shelter or created a neighborhood gardening club, these aren’t just activities—they’re parts of your story. Use this as the foundation of your personal narrative. A friend of mine, Anna, used her passion for wildlife conservation in her college essay. Instead of listing all her accomplishments, she shared a touching story about rescuing an injured owl, which demonstrated her commitment to her field. That genuine story became the anchor of her application and set her apart from thousands of others.

Your personal narrative should seamlessly connect with your academic and extracurricular choices. This connection shows admissions officers that you have a clear direction. For example, if you’re passionate about social justice, highlight your involvement in your school’s debate team or community initiatives. Colleges look for candidates who are intentional with their time and show a genuine commitment to their interests.

Step 2: Make Every Letter of Recommendation Count

A strong letter of recommendation offers college admissions committees a glimpse into how others perceive you. While your test scores and transcripts show your academic ability, recommendations reveal your character, work ethic, and potential as a college student. The key is to choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to different aspects of your personality.

For instance, if you’re passionate about creative writing, ask your English teacher, who can attest to your growth and potential in this field. But don’t just stop there. If you’ve worked closely with a volunteer organization, ask a supervisor who can highlight your dedication and leadership skills outside the classroom. This combination of recommendations can provide a fuller picture of who you are as both a student and a person.

A former classmate, Mark, used this strategy effectively. His teachers noted his academic dedication, but it was his recommendation from his soccer coach that stood out. The coach wrote about Mark’s resilience, leadership, and teamwork during a tough season. This recommendation gave the admissions team insight into Mark’s character, showing qualities that grades alone couldn’t capture.

Remember to approach your recommenders well in advance. It’s not enough to simply ask for a letter. Share your personal story with them, your goals, and what you hope to bring to college. This context will help them craft a letter that aligns with your narrative and reinforces your application themes.

Step 3: Demonstrate Interest and Engagement with Colleges

A college admissions secret is that many schools value “demonstrated interest.” This simply means that showing genuine interest in a school can sometimes improve your chances of admission. But this isn't about bombarding the admissions office with emails. It’s about meaningful interactions that show your investment in their community.

One effective way to demonstrate interest is to participate in college fairs, webinars, and campus visits. Engage with admissions officers and ask thoughtful questions. If the college offers online tours or information sessions, attend them and take notes. When you’re writing your "Why This College?" essay, these details can be valuable for explaining why you're excited about that particular school.

A friend, Sarah, went above and beyond to show her interest. She attended virtual panels, asked insightful questions, and followed up with thank-you emails. When she wrote her essay, she referenced specific faculty members and programs that resonated with her interests. Her efforts paid off. She was admitted and later learned that her active engagemen was a factor in her acceptance.

Another option is to interact on social media if the school has official profiles. Engaging with posts and commenting thoughtfully can subtly keep you on the radar. However, keep it professional and avoid oversharing.

Key Tips to Strengthen Your Application

Build a Strong Academic Profile

Grades and test scores are still an essential part of college admissions. Aim to demonstrate consistent academic growth, especially in subjects aligned with your career interests. If you struggled in a particular area but improved, highlight this growth in your application. Colleges appreciate students who show resilience and determination.

Embrace Extracurricular Diversity

Extracurricular activities are an opportunity to showcase what makes you unique. Instead of joining multiple clubs for the sake of it, focus on a few where you can make a meaningful impact. An applicant who spent four years in the debate team and rose to leadership will likely stand out more than one who dabbled in ten clubs without depth.

Keep Your Online Presence Professional

Admissions officers may look up applicants online, so ensure that your social media presence reflects well on you. This doesn’t mean scrubbing every post, but avoid anything that could be misinterpreted. Consider creating a LinkedIn profile to showcase your academic and extracurricular achievements.

Final Thoughts on the College Admissions Journey

The college admissions process is as much about self-discovery as it is about getting accepted. Each step, from shaping your personal narrative to engaging with schools, helps you define who you are and what you want out of the college experience.

When I applied to college, I underestimated how much admissions officers care about the person behind the scores. Over time, I learned that my unique story, coupled with genuine interest, was what set me apart. Approach the process with authenticity and passion, and remember: colleges are looking for individuals who will enrich their communities, not just students with high GPAs.

Navigating the college admissions journey can be challenging, but with these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to showcase your best self.