Cornell University

“I got great SAT scores andApr 20 2007Communications
I got great SAT scores and GPA, was involved in leadership roles in ECs and I worked two part time jobs while playing two varsity sports. I think that the hard work at the jobs while doing all of the other things is what got me in.

“I went to a small high school where itApr 09 2007History/Histories (art history/etc.)
I went to a small high school where it was difficult to not graduate number top of your class with really good grades. However, that school didn't prepare me well for Cornell.
ACT: 30 SAT: 1390 Female

“You have to set yourself apartMar 09 2007Political Science
You have to set yourself apart. Everyone has solid scores, awards, rankings, great GPA's, 5's on all of their AP's... but you need to become more than a number to them. They want to see that you are different- not just a resume-building drone bent on going Ivy.

The essay is important, because it is your chance to explain yourself. If you have an X-factor (you lived in Peru for a year working with impoverished children, you've published, or have some great life experience to tell) this is your chance to make it known. But it's important to keep the tone such that you aren't bragging, just telling and honest story. They like to hear what you've learned, how you are a better person/student, and how your experiences will make you an asset to the Cornell community. And they know when you are bull-shitting.

Solid extra-curriculars (NOT copious extracurriculars- there's a difference) will also show them that you can handle the pressure of simultaneuously balancing multiple commitments
(which you will definitely have to do as a Cornell student).

Finally, let them know if Cornell how you fit into Cornell- what programs are you interested? And don't talk about how prestigious it is, they know that. What they want to know is why Cornell is the best fit for you, and why you are the best fit for Cornell. And it doesn't hurt to let them know that they are your top pick (if they are) and that you love the University (if you do).

Basically, a solid candidate is more than numbers- they are interesting, and they stand out from the crowd.
SAT: 1440 Female

“I decided to apply to Cornell relatively late inJan 15 2007Architecture
I decided to apply to Cornell relatively late in the admission process, so I don't have any advice about starting out early. I'd say boards, test scores, and grades are important, but what's most important is being able to market yourself as an individual and to make a case as to why the university should select YOU over the other applicants (you can do this through the essay questions and supplemental material). As an architecture school applicant, I made sure that my portfolio for admission reflected not only who I was, but my talent levels and skills as an artist and aspiring architect. In addition, be honest throughout the process. Inflating your resume and personal acheivements can only get you so far. Lastly, make sure you visit campus either before or after you get admitted, and go during the normal academic school year.

“I went to a 2 year community college, andJan 09 2007Animal Studies
I went to a 2 year community college, and I worked hard. My GPA was a 4.0. I made sure I joined Phi Theta Kappa (although in the long run, it never helped me much.) I made sure to cover all the prerequisites for my "main" school. It really helps to sit down and talk to one of the admissions people in person because behind closed doors they are more apt to disclose more information to you.

When it came to the application, I wrote an essay that was from the heart. Make sure you use a real experience because you are more likely to come across more genuine than if you are making something up. My essay was not a sweet trip to the ocean, it was very deep and disturbing because I wrote about someone's death. I always kept the short essays truthful. I wasn't trying to kiss up because I realized that if they didn't like what I said, then they weren't the right school for me. Remember, not only are they choosing you to join the student body, you are also "paying" to hire them to give you your education. It's a two way street!!
Female