Strategies for Getting into College with Minimal Stress

High schoolers experience it every day: the competition with heavy loads of extracurriculars and courses that come with being a dedicated student. The competitive aspect seems to worsen every year, as more and more students apply to colleges. As College Admission Strategies writes, “Standardized test scores have inched up, and acceptance rates have dropped.” However, the competition for getting into college doesn’t have to take over students’ lives. Read on for some tips on standing out from the crowd, without overloading on stressful responsibilities.

1. Drop filler clubs.

Students often hear from teachers and parents that colleges like to see them in extracurriculars, and while the statement holds true, in many cases students will overcompensate by joining too many clubs. Sadhvi Mathur, a graduate of the University of California, Berkely, writes, “While this may sound good in theory, many universities would rather see that you made a substantial impact in each of your activities, even if that means you are involved in fewer activities.” Consider dropping filler clubs that take up too much time for both a lighter schedule and time to follow more meaningful pursuits.

Cal Newport gives students tips in his book. Photo by Daniela Paris.

2. Focus on one or two interests.

As Cal Newport suggests in his book, “How to Be A High School Superstar,” students should limit their activities to one or two focuses they feel interested in. These focuses should influence what extracurriculars students can take up, and can help them make sure they don’t partake in too many unnecessary activities. For example, a student interested in political science might limit their extracurriculars to volunteering with voter registration drives, organizing protests, joining the school SPAC club, or interning for their town or city government. This also shows colleges that students hold a true interest in activities relating to their future majors.

3. Commit to consistent volunteering.

Students can commit to consistently volunteering, for example at a community garden. Photo by Daniela Paris.

Many students join organizations such as Key Club, where the main purpose includes completing service hours for various nonprofits and charities. While clubs like these can be good for racking up service hours, many colleges like to see dedication in students. Consider switching out Key Club for consistently volunteering at a single organization in a field of interest. For example, a student interested in becoming a veterinarian could volunteer at an animal shelter on a weekly or monthly basis. This type of commitment to a single organization demonstrates a passion, and can also lead to leadership opportunities within the organization.

4. Get the SAT and ACT out of the way during the summer.

According to the Compass Education Group, the SAT and ACT remain available throughout the year, but it can be beneficial to register and take the tests before school starts. Students can use the extra time during the summer to study or take SAT or ACT prep courses, and ensure that they prepare themselves the best they can. Getting these big tests out of the way can allow for students peace of mind and freedom throughout the busy school year to focus on keeping up their grades and, of course, having a good time. Collegeboard usually holds test dates in August and September, but make sure to register for the exams a few months prior.

“I wish I had taken more opportunities while I had the time to do it, “ says Zoe Wright, senior at AFHS. The struggle to stand out to colleges can be demanding, but follow this list to keep that challenge as stress-free as possible.