The College of William and Mary

“William and Mary's student body is a full ofAug 31 2014Computer Science
William and Mary's student body is a full of very bright people with strong passions and values. To enhance your chances of being admitted, find ways to demonstrate these characteristics yourself. Some ideas would be taking the most advanced courses your school offers, and being involved in activities focused around particular interests. (My main ones were volunteering at a hospital, being involved in my high school choir for four years, and playing piano pretty well through high school. )
Male

“I would recommend doing something that sets you apartJul 12 2014Physics
I would recommend doing something that sets you apart from your peers in a non-academic, non-athletic way. WM prides itself on having the most service minded student body in the US, so doing something philanthropic and exceptional may be your best bet. (aside from the obvious good grades, etc.)
SAT: 1450 Male

“In order to get into William and Mary, I had a 4Jun 17 2014Other
In order to get into William and Mary, I had a 4.0 average and beneath the bottom range of scores. I took a few AP classes and volunteered at the food bank and local hospital. In addition to this I had a part time job and was a member of a bunch of rather random high school clubs. I'd say that you should have a lot of variety to your high school life if you want a strong shot at admission.
SAT: 1830 Female

“I was really involved in high school, had aJan 25 2014Biology
I was really involved in high school, had a generally above-average ACT & SAT score.
ACT: 32 SAT: 2080 Female

“The primary quality the college looks for is aNov 24 2013Political Science
The primary quality the college looks for is a willingness to engage in the rich academic and social life it has to offer. Instead of emphasising your academic and extra-curricular brilliance (your common app would do that for you), your essay should seek to show open-mindedness and engagement. Think of the time you changed your mind on a strongly-held opinion or prejudice because a personal experience; a writer who inspired you; or a personal struggle that made you more empathetic to the needs of others. In short, emphasis not your present brilliance, but your commitment to engage.
Male