Applying to college these days isn’t just about grades and test scores—it’s about telling your story. Colleges and universities want to see who you are beyond the transcript: your passions, leadership, and impact. The good news? You don’t have to be class president or win a national award to stand out. What truly matters is authenticity and commitment. Whether you’re an athlete, artist, entrepreneur, or community volunteer, your experiences can shape a compelling application. Here’s how to craft an application that gets noticed.

  1. Build a Well-Rounded Resume

Think of your resume as a snapshot of your achievements, skills, and experiences. Start by listing academic accomplishments, leadership roles, extracurricular activities, and any special recognitions. Keep it clear, concise, and organized—admissions officers should be able to quickly grasp what makes you unique.

Key components of a strong resume include:

  • Academic achievements: GPA, test scores, honors classes, AP/IB courses
  • Leadership roles: team captain, club president, student council member, etc.
  • Extracurricular activities: sports, music, theater, debate, robotics, etc.
  • Volunteer work: community service, local charities, advocacy projects
  • Work experience: internships, part-time jobs, family business involvement
  1. The Power of Extracurricular Activities

Colleges love to see students who pursue their passions outside the classroom. Quality over quantity is key—it’s better to be deeply involved in a few meaningful activities rather than spreading yourself too thin.

Tips for making extracurriculars stand out:

  • Stick with activities you genuinely enjoy and stay committed to them.
  • Take on leadership roles to show initiative and responsibility.
  • Aim for impact—whether it’s starting a club, organizing an event, or mentoring others.
  • Consider unique hobbies or interests that make you stand out (e.g., coding, entrepreneurship, podcasting)
  1. The Importance of Volunteering

Volunteering is another fantastic way to demonstrate compassion, leadership, and a sense of responsibility. Colleges appreciate applicants who contribute to their communities in meaningful ways.

How to make volunteering count:

  • Choose a cause that resonates with you: education, environmental efforts, animal welfare, etc.
  • Stay involved over time rather than one-off experiences.
  • Connect your volunteer work to your future goals. For example, if you want to study medicine, volunteering at a hospital is a great choice.
  • Document your experiences and the impact you’ve made.
  1. Letters of Recommendation Matter

Strong recommendation letters from teachers, coaches, or mentors can provide valuable insight into your character and work ethic.

How to get great recommendations:

  • Build strong relationships with teachers and mentors early on.
  • Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak about your strengths.
  • Give them plenty of time to write thoughtful letters. This, again, is why it’s good to start building those relationships sooner rather than later.
  • Provide them with details about your accomplishments to make their job easier. Maybe even provide them with a copy of your resume.
  1. Writing a Compelling College Essay

Your personal statement is your chance to shine. This allows you to tell your story, share your passions, and explain what makes you unique. While not mandatory for all college applications, many still provide students with the option to submit one. 

Essay tips:

  • Choose a topic that reflects who you are, not what you think colleges want to hear.
  • Be authentic, personal, and specific.
  • Show, don’t just tell—use examples and anecdotes.
  • Edit and revise multiple times, and ask for feedback from teachers or mentors.
  1. Showcasing Your Unique Personality

Colleges want students who will contribute to their campus culture. Whether through an interview, additional essays, or optional portfolio submissions, make sure your application highlights what makes you special.

The key to a strong college application is preparation and authenticity. Start early, stay engaged, and focus on what genuinely excites you. With the right mix of academics, extracurriculars, and personal insight, you won’t just apply to college—you’ll make a lasting impression for a brighter future.

This article was originally published in March 2025.