Feb 24 (edited) • 🎓 Strategy Posts
1️⃣ Application Strategy 101: What’s Your Application Narrative? (and Why It Matters!)
You’ve got the grades. You’ve got the extracurriculars. But what ties it all together?
Colleges aren’t just looking for impressive stats—they’re building a diverse class of students who bring something unique to campus. When admissions officers review your application, they’re really asking:
1️⃣ Who are you? (What defines your values, interests, and personality?)
2️⃣ How will you contribute? (What unique strengths, perspectives, or experiences will you bring?)
With thousands of applications to review, they only have minutes to grasp your story. If your application feels like a random list of achievements, it won’t stand out. That’s why you need an Application Narrative.
What is an Application Narrative?
It’s the unifying story that connects your academics, extracurriculars, and goals. Think of it like a movie trailer—a short but powerful glimpse that leaves a lasting impression.
📌 Formula:
[Primary Academic Field (intended major)] + [Secondary Academic Field (intended minor) AND/OR Core Non-Academic Activity] = Your Application Narrative
Examples:
🧪 Biology + photography = A biologist using photography to promote environmental awareness.
🔧 Robotics + education = A robotics innovator expanding access to STEM education.
⚽ Psychology + Football = A football star advocating for mental health in competitive sports.
Your narrative is your North Star—not something you explicitly write out, but a guiding theme that shapes your application into a cohesive, compelling story.
‼️ How to Find YOUR Application Narrative
Ask yourself:
❓ What patterns stand out? What subjects and extracurriculars do you naturally excel in?
❓ What connects them? What deeper interests, skills, or values keep showing up?
❓ Where is it leading? How does this align with your intended major (and possibly minor) and future goals?
📝 Your challenge: Try writing your Application Narrative in one sentence and drop it in the comments. Let’s refine it together!
✨ Next up: How to make your entire application reflect your narrative!
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1️⃣ Application Strategy 101: What’s Your Application Narrative? (and Why It Matters!)
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