Cornell University

“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 think that besides the obvious high GPA/Oct 11 2006Business - Management and Administration
I think that besides the obvious high GPA/SAT scores, the most important thing is to express a real interest in the major to which you are applying. Cornell would rather have smart students who are truly interested in learning in their departments than a bunch of validictorians without direction.
ACT: 35 SAT: 1520 Female

“Excellent grades, goodAug 09 2006History/Histories (art history/etc.)
Excellent grades, good SAT scores, lot of extracurricular activities.
Male

“I had goodApr 28 2006Other
I had good SAT scores(1470) and I was accepted into I.L.R. My high school grades were pretty good, they werent flawless though. A lot of extracurriculars + I am an athlete, which helped.