How to Build your Different`

Jack said it best, people don't start with a passion, "instead they just start with something...then they put in the work. Then it BECOMES a passion".

So you have your something, you put in the work, you find your passion...now what?!

Well, let me tell you a secret...

A niche passion is great, but what is better is strategically leveraging that passion to create a unique, different application.

This is where a new key idea comes in - creativity.  `

How you highlight your passion in your application doesn't have to be through your personal statement.

You can do it with an award or certificate, in the activities section, in a supplemental essay, or maybe all three! This is where creativity comes into the picture.

The best way to do this?

Its not a one size fits all answer...you need to get creative.

Take this equation -

Brainstorming + Reflection + CREATIVITY = Different

Start by brainstorming. Write down why you love your passion and how you see yourself incorporating it into your future. If you feel stuck, talk to friends, parents, and teachers or research leaders in that field for inspiration.

Reflect on what you came up with! Is your passion something you can keep doing while at college? Great...incorporate that into your supplemental essays! Can you attend a conference or submit an essay or proposal to add to your activities or achievements sections? Explore opportunities that you can partake in both now and in the future. This requires some work - put in the time!

Doing these two thing will help you find a creative, unique, and different way to incorporate your passion into your application, making you a stand-out applicant!

As always if you need any guidance, respond to this email!

Best of luck,
Melina Kazanas

P.S. - Have a high-performing high schooler w/ a 3.7 GPA or higher? We'll help get them into at least one of their top 5 dream colleges...and if we don't get them into at least one of their top 5 dream colleges, you don't pay us a penny.  Seriously.  College admissions isn't rocket science...but it is a science.  And we've cracked the code...year, after year, after year.  You can learn more about our world renowned all-inclusive, start-to-finish college coaching here and to see if your family qualifies for an introductory call.

P.P.S - Our most common question is "When should we start?!"  The answer is, if you truly care about giving your high schooler the best chance of college planning success, you should start NOW. 9th grade is not too early to start! 10th grade is certainly not too early to start! And 11th grade is far, far too late! (supporting data here to show just how much of an advantage you give your child by starting the process early).

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A Rule of Thumb for College Admissions

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"Find your passion" is terrible advice...do this instead