One of the best ways to stand out in college admissions is to put some soul into your activities.
Soul means bringing energy or intensity to whatever you’re doing. Not just showing up and going through the motions, but using the opportunity to bring out your very best self.
Imagine two different student body presidents. One runs just so they can list the title on their college applications. They dutifully show up to the meetings and do what’s required, nothing more.
The other runs because they really want to make a difference. They work like crazy to fulfill the promises made during their campaign, rally other students to join them, and do the kind of work that will be missed when they’re gone.
Both were student body presidents, but only one brought soul to the role. It’s the soul, not the title, that stands out.
The reader who loves literature and contributes to class discussions brings soul to their English class.
The barista who enthusiastically greets customers and cleans the counters without the boss having to ask is bringing soul to their part-time job.
The dance team member who recruits students with potential and curates videos of college dance teams as examples to aspire to is bringing soul to their dance cohort.
The best part? Soul is a choice that’s available to anyone. You don’t need a title, a perfect GPA, or a genetic gift to access it. You just need to care enough to make a difference with the soul you share.
The stagehand who takes their role just as seriously as does the lead in the school play. The player who rides the bench but is still the most supportive and encouraging teammate. The committee member who stays late to clean up after the school dance. They make a difference. They make things better for all those involved. And they do it by bringing their soul.
What you do in high school matters to colleges. But how you do it matters even more. Applicants who put soul into what they’re doing stand out. Their soul shines through in their essays, interviews, and letters of recommendation. And colleges know it’s those students who will bring soul with them to college.
If you really want to stand out in college admissions, consider what you’re doing today and ask, “How could I share more soul?” And if you’re not excited to share it, it might be a sign to reconsider how you’re spending your time.
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About Us: With more than twenty years of experience, Collegewise counselors and tutors are at the forefront of the ever-evolving admissions landscape. Our work has always centered on you: the student. And just like we’ve always done, we look for ways for you to be your best self - whether it’s in the classroom, in your applications or in the right-fit college environment. Our range of tools include counseling, test prep, academic tutoring, and essay management, all with the support of our proprietary platform, leading to a 4x higher than average admissions rates.
