EDUE ASCCTION
tends to focus heavily on A-level or IB class results to determine commitment and suc- cess in the specific subject that they are ap- plying to read. In the US application process, grades
and test scores are important but US col- leges aim to build a well-rounded student body by selecting candidates who can con- tribute to the campus community in ways other than just bringing excellent academic performance. In short, US universities take a holistic approach by taking into account what the student does both inside and out- side of the classroom. Tey look for those with dedicated interests, such as commu- nity service, participation in extra-curricu- lar activities or other displays of leadership skills throughout their secondary school years.
Destination USA?
Early bird catches the worm So if the US university system has real po- tential as a destination for your child, then preparing early is key. Students should start cultivating their outside interests as soon as
www.focus-info.org
year nine. In order to maximise the chance of them following through and keeping stress levels reduced, it is my advice to keep participation limited to those activities that they truly enjoy. Universities aren’t looking for someone who participates in an over- abundance of extra-curricular activities or some sort of contrived community service, they are looking for individuals who have one or two unique interests or passions, ideally ones that they have also developed into leadership roles and/or turned into meaningful service.
Fill two needs with one deed
As students’ time is notoriously tight, one trick is to make their interests count. Tere is no need for your child to separate the pursuit of their passions from leadership opportunities and community service. Instead, they should use their interests to fill each application need. If writing is your child’s passion, have them join the school newspaper and aim to become the editor. If it is sport, your child may find opportuni- ties to volunteer as a coach. If it’s music,
“US universities take a holistic approach by taking into account what the student does both inside and outside of the classroom.”
FOCUS The Magazine 21
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