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Writer's pictureChrista O.

Why Your Story Matters: Your Voice is Your Advantage

Updated: Oct 20




In the complex landscape of college admissions, particularly at elite institutions, the importance of a well-crafted essay and a poised presence for an interview cannot be overstated. While quantitative metrics such as GPA and standardized test scores play a crucial role, recent data and insights from admissions professionals suggest that essays and interview can be a decisive factor, especially for highly selective schools.


This blog post dives into some pretty cool data that shows just how much these factors can tip the scales in your favor. The good news? I'm here to help ensure you use your authentic voice to your advantage!


The Big Picture: Today's Admissions Landscape


Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, let's set the scene. The college admissions world is like a complex ecosystem, and it's constantly evolving. You already know this (because you're reading this blog), but here are a few important facts:

  • Applications are at an all-time high, making competition fiercer than ever.

  • Many schools are going test-optional, putting more weight on other parts of your application.

  • Colleges are increasingly looking for "fit" – not just grades, but how you'll contribute to their campus community.


In this wild landscape, your essays and interviews are like your secret superpower. They're your chance to show who you really are beyond the numbers. And trust me, colleges are paying attention.


The Essay: Your Time to Shine on Paper


First, let's talk essays. You might think they're just another box to check, but hold onto your hats – the data tells a different story:

  1. The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) says a bunch of colleges rate essays as "considerably important." That's fancy talk for "take this seriously, folks!"

  2. Here's a mind-blower: During Harvard's 2018 admissions lawsuit (yeah, that was a thing), we learned that applicants with top essay scores had a 16.7% acceptance rate. The overall rate? Just 5.4%. That's more than triple the chances!

  3. A former Dean of Admissions at UPenn (you know, that Ivy League school) estimated essays are the deciding factor in about 25% of admissions decisions. One in four, people!

  4. In a Common Application survey, 55% of colleges said essays are "extremely" or "very" important. That's a lot of importance, folks.


I can tell from my time on the Vanderbilt undergraduate admission council - here's how it went for me. I spent the first 5 (FIVE) minutes reading over your transcripts, test scores, extracurriculars, honors, awards, etc. Then, it's time to read. Essays and Letters of Recommendation. After I read those goosebumps-enducing essays and thought, "This applicant has to be a student at Vanderbilt," the other factors pale. What does this mean for you? Your essay could be your golden ticket!


The Interview: Your Chance to Work That Charm


Now, let's not forget about interviews. They might make your palms sweat, but they're also a huge opportunity:

  1. The NACAC report ranked interviews as "considerably important" for many colleges, especially the super selective ones.

  2. A survey by the Ivy Coach found that for Ivy League schools, a stellar interview can boost your chances by up to 10%. That's nothing to sneeze at!

  3. MIT's admissions office straight-up says that interviews play a "significant role" in their decisions. When MIT talks, we listen.


Think of your interview as your essay coming to life. It's your chance to show your personality, passion, and how you'll rock their campus.


Putting It All Together: Your Admissions Strategy


So, what's the takeaway here? In today's tough admissions world, grades and test scores get you in the door, but essays and interviews can seal the deal. They're your chance to stand out in a sea of impressive applications.


Here's how to make the most of these opportunities:

  1. For Essays:

    • Start early. Like, way early.

    • Be authentic. They want to know the real you, not what you think they want to hear.

    • Show, don't tell. Use stories and examples to bring your points to life.

    • Revise, revise, revise. Then have someone else look it over.

  2. For Interviews:

    • Practice, but don't sound rehearsed.

    • Come prepared with questions about the school. Show you've done your homework.

    • Be yourself. They're looking for real people, not robots.

    • Follow up with a thank-you note. It's classy and shows you're serious.


Remember, colleges aren't just admitting students; they're building a community. Your essay and interview are your chance to show them why you're the perfect addition to their campus family. I've got the inside scoop on what works, and I'm here to help you put your best foot forward.



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