At The Ivy Institute, our commitment to guiding students toward their academic aspirations extends beyond traditional avenues. We are dedicated to offering valuable insights, advice, and recommendations to students striving to excel in the Ivy League and beyond. One way we achieve this is by actively engaging on online forums, like Reddit and Quora, where we connect with students from diverse backgrounds navigating the intricate path of higher education.

In our participation within Reddit, we frequently encounter exceptional and thought-provoking questions that shed light on aspects of the college admissions journey rarely discussed in available resources. These queries stand out, reflecting the wide array of challenges and aspirations students worldwide bring to the table. Recognizing the significance these questions hold for a wider audience, we have curated select questions and discussions on Reddit to share with you.

Through these insightful conversations, our aim is to provide a broader perspective on the intricacies of the college admissions process, offer guidance, and illuminate the uniqueness of each student's journey. We firmly believe that by sharing these exceptional questions and our expert responses, we can contribute to a more informed and empowered community of students aspiring to Ivy League and top colleges.

"Older" international student - How to improve chances (posted in subreddit r/ivyleaguecollege by Reddit user u/MeloTheMelon)

“I want to study at an ivy league college (duh) and would like some pointers on how to improve my chances.

Some background info. I'm in my late 20s and already have a master's degree in Data Science plus have been working in research for about 2 years now. I studied my undergraduate at a top university in Germany and my post-graduate at a decent university in the UK. My marks since highschool were good but nothing amazing.

I now want to study a completely different field (English literature & creative writing).

I have about a year or two to prepare myself and figure out a way to get in and maybe also get a scholarship. While still working in research for that time.

I'm just not sure what to focus on and what's actually important, since studying here in Europe wasn't that big of a hassle. (I submitted my highschool marks to the one uni I was interested in and got it).

One other option would be to get a second undergrad degree in something close to English lit from a top university here in Germany and then try to go for Ivy league in post-graduate, but I'd really prefer not to go that route.

Any tips and ideas would help a lot.”

This student’s individual journey and experiences are invaluable contributions that can significantly enrich the diverse and well-rounded student community that Ivy League institutions aim to foster.

It's truly inspiring to witness this student’s determination to change and start on a new path, particularly in the realm of English literature & creative writing, while concurrently advancing their professional trajectory in research. The student’s master's degree in Data Science, coupled with their research background, underscores their intellectual adaptability and dedication.

With regards to contemplating a second undergraduate degree, it's essential to evaluate whether this path aligns with the student’s goals and timeline. While an additional degree may furnish foundational knowledge, the existing master's degree and work experience already showcase the student’s capability to excel at the graduate level. If the student feels another undergraduate degree is best suited for their circumstances, then applying as a nontraditional student is a possibility, Ivy League institutions provide specialized undergraduate programs tailored to an array of experiences and backgrounds. Programs like Columbia University's General Studies, Harvard University's Extension School, and the University of Pennsylvania's Liberal and Professional Studies are thoughtfully designed to accommodate students returning to academia after a hiatus or seeking a shift in their academic focus.

These programs afford the flexibility to pursue a bachelor's degree while concurrently upholding other commitments. They offer a supportive environment where your life experiences and professional achievements can seamlessly integrate into your academic pursuits. Additionally, they facilitate opportunities for nontraditional students to engage with a diverse community of learners and leverage the resources of esteemed institutions.

However, as you astutely pointed out, instances may arise where a direct pursuit of a master's or PhD program might align more cohesively with your career objectives. Should your central aim be to delve deeper into your chosen field of study

In light of the student’s background and their aspiration to become part of an Ivy League program, there are several key factors to consider for either a non-traditional undergraduate degree program or graduate program.

• Alignment and Passion: Clearly articulate your passion for English literature & creative writing in your application. Highlight how this transition aligns with your personal and professional growth, emphasizing your ability to introduce fresh perspectives to the field.

• Personal Statement: Craft a compelling personal statement that sheds light on your journey, experiences, and insights gained. Discuss how your distinct academic trajectory and work undertakings have equipped you with a unique viewpoint, ready to contribute to the Ivy League community.

• Letters of Recommendation: Seek recommendation letters that underscore your adaptability, commitment, and capacity to excel within a diverse academic milieu. These letters should underscore your strengths and skills extending beyond formal education.

• Extracurricular Engagements: While engaged in research, explore avenues to participate in activities tied to English literature and creative writing. This might encompass attending literary events, contributing to relevant publications, partaking in writing workshops, or even initiating a blog or podcast.

• Personal Growth and Learning: Emphasize your continuous growth and learning outside conventional educational realms. Spotlight self-initiated projects, literature, courses, or initiatives that have deepened your understanding of English literature & creative writing.

• Graduate Record Examination (GRE): Given that numerous Ivy League graduate programs require GRE scores, contemplate preparing for the exam. A strong GRE performance can bolster your application and demonstrate your academic preparedness.

• Networking and Engagement: Establish connections with professors, professionals, and peers within the English literature field to garner insights, counsel, and potential collaboration prospects.

Ultimately, each student's educational path is distinct, warranting a meticulous evaluation of the approach that resonates most profoundly with individual aspirations and circumstances. The Ivy League institutions uphold the significance of embracing diverse backgrounds and viewpoints, and this student’s path as a nontraditional student is poised to greatly enrich their academic landscape.