Each time I train a new batch of Collegewise counselors and we get into discussions about their experiences as admissions officers, I’m reminded of how personal the admissions process really is.
Not at every school—if all you have to do is submit a transcript and test scores, the highest numbers win. But if you’re listing activities, writing essays, submitting letters of recommendation, and/or doing an interview, there will ultimately be a real person who sits down and takes the time to read, consider, evaluate, and discuss your application.
One of our trainees talked about an essay that made her laugh so hard she called her mom to tell her about it. Another said that people in his office each had two “bus kids” each year. A bus kid was an officer’s way of saying, “If you all don’t agree to admit this kid, I’m going to go outside and walk into traffic.” His coworkers held onto their two precious bus passes so they could use them when they mattered. But when someone played the bus card, everyone else respected it.
The college admissions process can seem arbitrary and unfair. But that’s because outsiders only see the ultimate decision. You’re not in the committee. You didn’t hear the discussion, the acknowledgements of how great you were, or the often complex considerations that can push a vote one way or another.
It helps to remember that admissions officers, almost without exception, are nice people who would much rather admit than deny a kid. When they read your application, they do so with respect and a sense of responsibility to make sure that every kid who takes the time to pour his or her high school life into their app gets a fair read.
Work hard, find schools that fit, and put together applications that help admissions officers get to know you and your high school career. You don’t get to control the final decision, but you can rest easy knowing that you’ll get a full, fair read from someone who’s looking for reasons to give you a shot.