Why Colleges Will Never Tell You Exactly What They Are Looking For in Students: Insights from a Recent Branson Graduate
Navigating the college application process can feel like deciphering a complex code. Each institution claims to have its unique selection criteria, yet none provide a clear-cut answer to what exactly they seek in a prospective student. As a recent graduate of The Branson School now attending Stanford University, I've spent countless hours pondering this question and discussing it with peers, my counselors, and fellow admitted students. Here's what I've learned about why colleges maintain this veil of mystery.
1. Embracing Holistic Review
Colleges often tout a "holistic review" process, meaning they evaluate applicants based on a multitude of factors—academic achievements, extracurricular activities, personal essays, recommendations, and sometimes interviews. This approach allows them to consider the whole person rather than just grades and test scores. If colleges were to disclose a precise formula or checklist, it would undermine the holistic nature of their review process. They want to see authentic, multifaceted individuals, not applicants who are simply ticking off boxes.
2. Promoting Genuine Passion Over Strategic Planning
Imagine if a college stated they valued leadership above all else. Students might scramble to secure leadership positions, even in areas they aren't genuinely passionate about, just to fit the mold. By keeping their criteria ambiguous, colleges encourage students to pursue their true interests and passions. This authenticity is crucial because it often leads to more meaningful and impactful contributions both in high school and in college.
3. Avoiding a Monolithic Student Body
A key goal for many colleges is to create a diverse and dynamic student body. If they were to specify exactly what they were looking for, they might end up with a homogenous group of students who all excel in the same areas. Diversity in talents, backgrounds, and perspectives enriches the campus experience for everyone. By not disclosing their exact criteria, colleges can better ensure a mix of students who bring different strengths and viewpoints to their community.
4. Fostering Resilience and Adaptability
The college application process itself is a test of resilience and adaptability. These are qualities highly valued in students but difficult to quantify or specify in advance. The uncertainty applicants face forces them to adapt, persevere, and develop problem-solving skills. It's a preparatory stage for the inevitable challenges and ambiguities of college life and beyond.
5. Preventing Manipulation of the System
Let's be honest—if colleges provided a detailed roadmap to admission, some applicants and parents might exploit it. There would be a surge in services designed to game the system, such as paid-to-succeed extracurriculars, essay coaching, and more. This would further disadvantage those who cannot afford such resources, exacerbating inequities in the admissions process. By keeping their exact preferences under wraps, colleges help maintain a more level playing field.
6. Highlighting the Importance of Fit
Ultimately, the admissions process is not just about whether a student is good enough for a college, but also about whether the college is a good fit for the student. Ambiguity in what colleges look for encourages students to reflect deeply on what they want in a college experience, rather than trying to conform to an ideal they think colleges desire. This reflection helps ensure that students end up at institutions where they can truly thrive.
Navigating the Unknown: Tips for Applicants
Given this inherent ambiguity, how can you as an applicant approach the process? Here are a few tips:
- Be Authentic: Pursue what genuinely interests you, not what you think will look good on an application.
- Develop Your Story: Start early in crafting a narrative that reflects your passions, strengths, and growth. This will come through in your essays and interviews.
- Focus on Impact: Depth often matters more than breadth. Show how your involvement in activities has made an impact on you and others.
- Seek Guidance: Use your resources—counselors, teachers, mentors—to gain insights and feedback beyond self-reflection.
- Understand Fit: Research colleges thoroughly and consider where you will be happy and successful, not just where you think you can get in.
- Stay Resilient: Embrace the uncertainty and view the process as a learning experience. It is not a zero-sum game and regardless of where you end up, it will be a memorable time.
In conclusion, the ambiguity in what colleges are looking for is intentional and serves several purposes, from fostering genuine passion to promoting diversity. As applicants, the best strategy is to stay true to ourselves, pursue our interests with dedication, and reflect on where we will thrive. By doing so, we not only increase our chances of admission but also ensure we find the right fit for our college journey.