What Is A "Spike"
If you’ve heard both of these pieces of advice, you’re not alone:
"Be well-rounded!"
"Stand out with something unique!"
So which is it?
Today, let’s talk about one of the best ways to truly set yourself apart - by developing a spike.
What Is a "Spike," Exactly?
A spike is a deep achievement, skill, or impact in one focused area, whether that is science research, creative writing, entrepreneurship, activism, or something else that genuinely interests you.
While a well-rounded applicant participates in many activities, a spiky applicant leads, creates, earns recognition, or produces real outcomes in a particular field.
Admissions officers read thousands of applications. A spike tells a clear story about who you are and what you will bring to campus.
Why Having a Spike Matters
It makes you memorable to admissions committees.
It shows how you will contribute to campus life.
It highlights your potential for future success.
At the most selective colleges, having a spike can be the difference between blending in and standing out.
What a Spike Is Not
It is not about being one-dimensional.
You do not need to win national awards (though those achievements can help).
It is not about chasing prestige. It is about building genuine depth.
Your spike should grow naturally from your real interests, not from what you think colleges want to see.
How to FIND Your Spike
1. Identify your strongest interest and reflect on what activities excite you most. What would you pursue even without being asked?
2. Take it to the next level Move beyond participation. You can create, lead, compete, or collaborate. Examples include:
Launching a blog, podcast, or nonprofit
Entering competitions
Leading a club or organizing an event
Collaborating with professionals or organizations
3. Show tangible outcomes Admissions officers want evidence of your impact. Tangible outcomes can include awards, published work, leadership roles, or measurable results from your projects.
4. Connect it to your future goals The best spikes align with your academic or career ambitions. They demonstrate a clear sense of direction and motivation.
You do not need to give up everything else you love. Colleges still want students who are curious and well-rounded.
However, adding a clear passion with meaningful impact can transform your application. It shows colleges not only who you are now, but also what kind of leader, creator, or innovator you will become on their campus.
You do not have to be born a prodigy to develop a spike. You just need to be willing to go deeper, take initiative, and turn your interests into action.
If you would like help identifying your spike or learning how to showcase it effectively in your applications and essays, we are here to help! You can schedule a call with our team here.
Looking forward to hearing from you,
Melina Kazanas
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