Higher education access has long been a divisive topic. Universities use careful planning and strategy, according to some, while others assert that the system is completely random. This study aims to shed light on whether or not universities select students at random for enrollment. Additionally, it provides guidance on how to improve your performance on the College Applications entrance exam and increase your chances of admission.
Admissions: Is it random or intentional?
admissions with a wide focus:
In contrast to other nations, the United States uses a variety of criteria to assess prospective students. A “holistic” admissions process would operate in this manner. A few examples include academic success, test results, extracurricular and volunteer activities, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. Although there is some room for interpretation, the methodology is not completely arbitrary. Admissions officers at universities look for applicants who will contribute outside of the classroom and are well-rounded. It might not seem like there is any connection between casinos and higher education at first. However, examining the randomness in both processes reveals some fascinating parallels. How do things like applying to colleges and playing slots relate to concepts like probability and luck? There is some element of chance involved in both the college application process and playing slots. Applicants can increase their chances of acceptance by enhancing their credentials and effort through the strategic and thorough College Applications admissions process. However, since slots are entirely controlled by random number generators, player skill or strategy are completely irrelevant when playing slots (RNGs). The analogy serves as a gentle reminder that even in situations where it might seem like chance and randomness prevail, people can still improve their outcomes by making thoughtful choices and exerting strategic effort.
A representative of admissions
Applications are processed and candidates are chosen by the admissions office of a school. They are capable and consistently follow the rules that the company has established. This guarantees that a highly arbitrary outcome will be obtained from the process. When the institution’s values and goals are taken into consideration, the admissions process becomes less random and more strategic.
How to Get Accepted to College and Get Better Test Results:
1. Complete difficult courses with success
Colleges place a high value on students who have taken challenging courses while maintaining high GPAs. The National Association of College Admission Counselors (NACAC) conducted a survey of colleges in 2019 and found that nearly three-quarters of them considered students’ course grades to be of utmost importance. According to Christina Skeldon, a College Applications advisor and executive functioning coach with JBG Educational Group, a strong GPA gets you through the first round. “The next step is to draw attention to the distinct qualities that set this student apart. What did they do when they weren’t in school? Who else do you think they are if not a student?”As over 80% of schools ranked curriculum rigor as at least somewhat important, enroll in as many advanced classes as you can, particularly in your junior and senior years. Before choosing between IB, AP, and Honors courses, give it some thought. According to Skeldon, administrators at the university “like to see that students challenged themselves and took higher-level courses in areas in which they are strong.”
2. Possess a high SAT/ACT score
Despite the recent rise in popularity of test-optional policies, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, SAT/ACT scores continue to be useful indicators of whether an applicant will be admitted to a four-year university. More than four out of five institutions gave the results of standardized test results a moderate to high priority, according to the NACAC survey. Even if a particular university does not request your test results, you should still submit them. A lot of junior-year students take the SAT or ACT in the spring to see if they need to retake it in the fall of their senior year. The most efficient way to prepare for either exam is to use official practice questions and tests, many of which are free. Additionally, enrolling in a class, hiring a tutor, or purchasing a book can all help you with your SAT or ACT preparation.
3. Write a strong personal statement.
The personal statement is more crucial than ever because many universities no longer require the SAT or ACT for admission. More than half of the colleges and universities surveyed by NACAC valued the essay or writing sample. The essay you submit is one of your best marketing tools. Skeldon asserts that “an outstanding essay reveals who the student is beyond a GPA or test scores.” Spend some time deciding on the best prompt and developing a fresh strategy. To share an intriguing personal story is the objective.
4. Show enthusiasm
The NACAC reported that 40% of the institutions surveyed used the level of interest of potential students as a qualification for admission. By taking a tour, meeting with admissions staff, and visiting the campus, you can demonstrate your interest in attending a particular university. Skeldon stressed the importance of a formal visit. Since some universities still require interviews, I believe it is a good thing when a student requests one. It’s a good idea to connect with professors in your intended field of study, participate in online seminars for prospective students, and follow the school on social media.
Get strong letters of recommendation.
Letters of recommendation can shed light on a candidate’s character in a way that grades and test scores cannot. It’s important to choose references who will speak highly of you and your skills, accomplishments, and character. High school guidance counselors and teachers are typically asked to write three to five letters of recommendation. Be polite when making your request. Make sure to inquire one month prior to any application deadlines. Give your recommender plenty of time to create a letter of recommendation that stands out.
diverse college applications
All three of a student’s “safety,” “match,” and “reach” schools should receive applications. Inquire about the colleges you might apply to and their acceptance rates from your high school guidance counselor. If you select these people as your matches and safeties, you have a good chance of being accepted. After you’ve done that, it’s time to think about “reach schools,” or colleges and universities that have a lower chance of admitting you. Always keep in mind that the vast majority of students do not have the financial means to attend elite private institutions like Stanford or Ivy League colleges. If you apply to lots of schools, you’ll have a better chance of getting into at least one of them.
7. Deciding on Early Admission
Students who apply to their top schools earlier have a better chance of being accepted, according to research. This is due to the fact that during early decision and early action admissions periods, colleges typically accept a larger number of applicants. Skeldon continually highlights how important it is to submit applications on time. The ideal time to submit an application for both programs is early November. Your admission application should be reviewed as soon as possible, ideally by December. When submitting their early college applications, prospective students have the option of choosing between “early decision” and “early action.” The former requires steadfast loyalty to a cause, whereas the latter does not.
8. Reputation management
Increasingly, admissions officers are looking into applicants’ social media profiles to learn more about them and look for any potential red flags that might make them reconsider accepting them. Before submitting college applications, delete anything embarrassing or inappropriate from your online profiles. Skeldon advised maintaining private social media profiles and emphasized the value of using an email address with a business-related domain. Search for your name on Google to make sure there are no negative comments made about you.
9. Ask for Help
The college application process shouldn’t be attempted on your own. Ask teachers and counselors who are familiar with the admissions process for guidance as you finish the application preparation process. For advice on the application process and college life, you can also speak with your parents, friends, and older siblings. Last but not least, make sure your application is error-free before submitting it. Skeldon emphasized the value of getting a second opinion on your work. The importance of using proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation cannot be overstated.