There is a common belief that perfect grades are a primary factor in guaranteeing admission to competitive colleges. Unfortunately, or fortunately for some, this is not always true. Other factors, such as extracurriculars, an outstanding college essay, and strong recommendations from teachers, play a significant role in helping students win a spot at top universities. College admissions have evolved beyond focusing on academic performance. Understanding the factors that are put into acceptance into college admissions will not only help students be accepted into challenging schools but also help pave the way for future success.
Dr. Aviva Legatt writes in College Admissions Success Requires More Than Good Grades that setting clear priorities and sticking to a structured schedule, if the student maintains a high GPA and demonstrates strong leadership skills, makes their application stand out to top-tier universities.”This reflects the current state of the admissions landscape, where acceptance is not guaranteed based on expected high academic performance. Extracurricular involvement and well-made essays have taken greater importance over the years as college admissions have grown to become more competitive. According to The Evolution of Exclusivity: Why College Admissions are More Competitive Than Ever by Lucas Benjamin, factors such as contributions from parents, growing early decision and early action applications, and globalization have affected pressures over the years. “The competitiveness of modern admissions is due to both an increase in the number of applicants and the consistently growing perception that admission to elite schools is essential for future success.” Benjamin also states how tools such as social media and the Common Application fuel competition among accomplishments. Because of this, students feel the need to compare their accomplishments and feel pressured to create outstanding application essays.
Grades alone do not help make applications stand out as much as other achievements do. College counselors of Judge Memorial Catholic High School, Ms. Sawaya and Ms. Jones, emphasize what top colleges look for in applicants who show distinctive knowledge and promise outside of the classroom. Ms. Jones says, “I would say the grades can be a factor of what keeps you in the admissions process, but they weigh heavily on extracurriculars, recommenders, other things that they’re doing.” Ms. Sawaya describes how the major change in the admission process landscape is grade inflation, as well as the huge number of applications that go to colleges. “I think that the landscape of students of your age are decreasing, but applications are still on the rise. And how do we advise and how do students understand that landscape? I think it’s something we’re still learning right now, and we can give it some of our best educational guesses.” Ms. Sawaya explains how it’s important to reflect on your work as a leader, innovator, creator, and changer when it comes to applying for a specific major. If your profile does not demonstrate that, it could be difficult for the student to get into their desired school even if they have perfect grades. Letters of recommendation play a powerful role in distinguishing an applicant as well. Ms. Jones points out how colleges are looking for what type of student you are in a class when looking through your applications. A student needs to demonstrate their vulnerability and resilience no matter what the topic of their application essay may be. Ms. Jones explains how important it is to be as transparent as possible. “I think being vulnerable and honest on your applications is just as important as bragging about yourself as well…But it’s getting to those details. So not being vague at all in any part of your application is important.”
As a high school senior, I applied to Santa Clara University to explore my academic history and expand my application boundaries. While applying, I was worried about the extent of the activities i was involved in and my academic history. “Excessive levels of academic pressure on students can lead to issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, and physical conditions like fatigue. While mild academic pressure is healthy and helpful, other negative effects of academic pressure on students are not to be underestimated,” says Michael Vallejo in Academic Pressure: Causes, Effects, and Coping Strategies. When striving to achieve perfect grades, it’s important to realize that not only will your GPA make a difference, but as will your experiences, weaknesses, and potential. When I prioritized health, learned my limits, and organized strategies to help me academically, I was able to become the successful student I wanted to be, as well as opened doors for new experiences. To avoid consequences from stress and burnout, prioritizing academic aspirations while also prototyping self-care can help you achieve your goals.
While it is important to have good grades, they are only one of the many pieces that go into college admissions. Students must demonstrate their resilience, leadership, and clear plan for their future to gain admission to competitive schools. A well-made application should show not only academic achievements but also personal growth, involvement in extracurriculars, and the unique qualities that distinguish each student. By having a better understanding of what colleges look for in applicants as well as the aspects of the application, students have a better chance of being accepted into their schools as well as creating a path for future success. Overall, the way you control your academic performance, personal growth, and honest application can open doors for a bright future.
